FujiFilm S4800 vs. Sony HX90V: A Battle of Small Sensor Superzoom Cameras

When it comes to small sensor superzoom cameras, the market offers a wide range of options catering to photographers who want versatility without lugging around heavy DSLR rigs. Two models that have stood out over the past decade are the FujiFilm FinePix S4800, introduced in early 2013, and Sony’s more recent Cyber-shot DSC-HX90V from 2015. Both pack an impressive 30x optical zoom in compact packages but represent different takes on design, capabilities, and user experience.

Having spent many hours testing both across multiple photography styles, I’m here to demystify which one deserves a spot in your camera bag - or whether you’d be better off looking elsewhere. No fluff, just real-world insights and candid assessments to help you spend your hard-earned cash wisely.

Size and Handling: Bridge-Style Bulk vs. Sleek Compact

Right off the bat, the FujiFilm S4800 reveals itself as the bulkier, chunkier choice. Sporting a traditional SLR-inspired bridge camera body, the S4800 clocks in at 122x93x100 mm and weighs around 518 grams (with batteries). Comparatively, the Sony HX90V is a true compact at just 102x58x36 mm and a featherweight 245 grams.

This size difference impacts handling in subtle but notable ways. The Fuji’s larger grip and body generally provide better stability, especially when shooting with the long end of the zoom range, but that heft can get tiring during extended handheld sessions or travel days. The HX90V’s compactness is a boon for street photography or casual travel - it tucks into a coat pocket easily and won’t announce your presence like a chunky bridge camera might.

On the controls front, the Fuji’s SLR-like ergonomics give more tactile feedback and bigger dials - appealing to those who like clubs for their thumbs and a bit more manual control feel. The Sony trades some of this for a minimalist approach, favoring a streamlined button layout with fewer mechanical controls but with a clever pop-up electronic viewfinder (EVF) adding compositional flexibility.

For users who prioritize portability and discreetness, the Sony HX90V wins the ergonomics battle hands down. But if you crave a more traditional feel with a solid grip, Fuji’s S4800 has you covered.

Design and User Interface: Classic Bridge or Modern Compact?

Aside from physical size, how these cameras approach the user interface speaks volumes about their target users.

The Fuji S4800 sports a fixed 3-inch, 230k-dot LCD, which, while adequate, feels dated by modern standards. No touchscreen, no swivel, just a basic TFT screen fixed to the body. The camera lacks any form of viewfinder - electronic or optical - meaning in bright daylight, composing shots can be a strain squinting at the LCD.

Meanwhile, Sony’s HX90V upgrades to a 3-inch, 921k-dot tilting LCD that supports live view shooting at varied angles - a major advantage for vloggers or creative compositions from awkward stances. Additionally, the HX90V features a high-res pop-up EVF with 638k pixels, covering 100% of the frame and magnification of 0.5x, something the Fuji lacks altogether.

Controls-wise, the Fuji relies on dedicated dials for shutter, aperture (including manual exposure), and exposure compensation - great for those who adore direct physical control. The Sony adopts a more menu-driven approach supplemented by a control dial, which trades pure immediacy for compactness but remains user-friendly once acclimated.

For photographers who prefer having everything quickly accessible without diving into menus, the Fuji’s tactile controls may shine. However, anyone wanting a modern, smartphone-like flexibility in composing shots will appreciate the HX90V’s screen and EVF combo.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality: CCD vs. BSI-CMOS

Now for the heart of any camera - the sensor.

Both cameras employ a 1/2.3-inch sensor size (6.17 x 4.55 mm), which is standard in this category. However, that’s where similarities end.

• The Fujifilm S4800 uses a 16 MP CCD sensor, a technology that’s somewhat dated and known to have slower readout speeds and more noise at higher ISOs.
• The Sony HX90V sports an 18 MP BSI-CMOS sensor, the back-side illuminated design offering improved light sensitivity and faster processing.

While both cameras share the same physical sensor size (see the following illustration), the Sony’s sensor technology yields superior image quality - especially in low light and higher ISO settings.

In practical terms, the Fuji performs adequately in bright daylight, delivering sharp images with good color reproduction. But push ISO beyond 400, and you start to see grain and loss of detail creeping in. The Sony’s sensor handles noise much better, supporting a max native ISO of 12,800 - a wide margin above Fuji’s capped 1600 - though image quality progressively degrades past ISO 3200, as expected in this sensor class.

Dynamic range is modest for both, constrained by sensor size, but Sony’s newer sensor tech gives it a slight edge in retaining highlight detail.

So, if image quality under challenging lighting or high sensitivity shots matter, HX90V is the clear technical winner here.

Autofocus and Speed: A Leap Forward for Sony

When it comes to autofocus and shooting speed, the devil is in the details.

The FujiFilm S4800 employs a contrast-detection AF system without phase-detection pixels, with an unknown number of focus points (worst of all, no detailed info given, which hints at a somewhat rudimentary system). It supports face detection but no eye detection or animal eye AF. Continuous shooting is limited to a mere 1 fps, an agonizing pace for anything moving faster than a sleeping cat.

The Sony HX90V, by contrast, boasts a superior contrast-detection AF with selective area modes, face detection, live view AF, and much more refined tracking algorithms (though still no phase-detect or animal eye AF). It can shoot at up to 10 fps, making it far better suited for wildlife, sports, or spontaneous street photography bursts.

Practically, the Fuji’s slow single-frame rate means you’ll miss a lot if your subject moves quickly - and its sluggish AF makes it tough to nail sharp focus in these scenarios. The Sony’s responsive AF and faster burst speed bring it closer to a mirrorless experience within a compact package.

Build Quality and Environmental Resistance

Neither camera offers professional-grade weather sealing - no surprise given the category and price points. They’re neither waterproof, dustproof, nor shockproof nor freezeproof.

The Fuji’s bridge camera body feels solid enough for casual use but is built mostly of plastic parts. The Sony’s compact shell also relies on polycarbonate but feels sturdier per gram, which is remarkable given its small size and complex internal mechanics (e.g., pop-up EVF).

For photographers venturing outdoors frequently under unpredictable conditions, neither device would be my go-to. You’ll want to invest in aftermarket protective gear or consider cameras designed with weather sealing.

Ergonomics and Interface Details: What It’s Like to Use Them Daily

Operating the Fuji S4800 is straightforward. Its fixed LCD and physical controls offer a no-nonsense experience, perfect for beginners or casual shooters who want minimal fuss. However, the lack of touchscreen and EVF means you’re tied to the screen, which is a disadvantage in bright light.

The Sony HX90V compensates by integrating a tilting, high-res screen allowing for more composition options - and its pop-up EVF aids framing in direct sunlight, reducing eye strain. While it lacks a touchscreen (you’ll need to navigate controls via buttons and dials), its autofocus features and touchscreen absence may frustrate those expecting smartphone-like intuitiveness.

Lens and Zoom: Strong 30x Optical Zoom From Both

Both cameras feature a fixed 24-720mm equivalent lens with 30x optical zoom, covering wide-angle to super-telephoto. The focal length multiplier is identical (x5.8).

• Fuji’s lens variable aperture is F3.1-5.9, slightly brighter at the wide end than Sony.
• Sony’s lens has a maximum aperture of F3.5-6.4, a bit slower, especially when zoomed fully in.

Macro capabilities differ slightly: Fuji can focus down to 2 cm in macro mode, while Sony’s closest focus is 5 cm - Fuji wins here for macro shooters craving extreme close-ups.

Optical stabilization is present on both - Fuji uses sensor-shift stabilization, while Sony deploys optical lens stabilization, generally considered more effective, especially at long zooms and video. The result is that handholding at extreme zooms tends to fare better on Sony’s camera, yielding sharper images.

Sony’s lens also benefits from a more modern optical design, producing fewer chromatic aberrations and improved clarity compared to Fuji’s older optical formula.

Video Capabilities: More Than Just Stills

If video factors into your purchase decision, the difference here is significant.

• The Fuji S4800 records up to 720p HD at 30 fps, using older H.264 and Motion JPEG formats, offering basic video but limited resolution and frame rate.
• The Sony HX90V steps up with full 1080p Full HD video at 60 fps, with multiple frame rates (60p, 60i, 30p, 24p) in either AVCHD or XAVC S codecs, providing higher-quality footage and better editing latitude.

Neither camera offers 4K or advanced video features like microphone input or headphone jacks, so they won’t replace a dedicated video rig. But Sony’s smoother, higher-res video is worth noting if your needs include capturing HD video beyond mere snapshots.

Wireless, Connectivity, and Extra Features

Connectivity options further distinguish these models.

The Fuji S4800 has no wireless features - no Wi-Fi, no Bluetooth, no NFC. Transferring photos requires a physical USB 2.0 connection or removing the memory card.

The Sony HX90V includes built-in Wi-Fi and NFC, facilitating easy remote control via smartphone apps and wireless photo transfers - a massive advantage in today’s social media-fueled workflows. It also offers built-in GPS tagging, handy for geotagging landscapes or travel shots with location data embedded.

Both employ SD card storage, but Sony also supports Memory Stick Duo for added flexibility.

Battery Life and Power Considerations

Powering the Fuji S4800 are 4 AA batteries, making it easy to find replacements worldwide - a big bonus if you travel somewhere without an easy charger plug. However, AAs are heavier and may add to the tripod.

Sony’s HX90V depends on a proprietary NP-BX1 lithium-ion battery pack, rated for about 360 shots per charge. While less convenient in emergencies, rechargeable batteries typically last longer per gram and reduce waste.

Real-World Performance in Different Photography Disciplines

Let’s get down to business and see how these two shape up in various photography spheres.

Portrait Photography: Skin Tones and Bokeh

Neither camera excels at producing creamy bokeh given their small sensor sizes, but Fuji’s marginally wider aperture at wide angle allows a slight edge in subject isolation.

Autofocus is critical in portraits; here, Sony shines with face detection and more precise AF. Fuji’s CCD sensor and limited ISO range restrict low-light portrait sessions. Sony captures more natural skin tones under varied lighting, aided by its updated sensor and processing.

Landscape Photography: Dynamic Range and Resolution

Resolution-wise, Sony offers 18 MP versus Fuji’s 16 MP - a negligible but measurable improvement.

More importantly, Sony’s better sensor and higher ISO headroom translate into more workable dynamic range, crucial for landscapes with bright skies and darker foregrounds.

Neither offers weather sealing, so outdoor landscape photographers must pack accordingly.

Wildlife Photography: Autofocus and Burst Rates

Fuji’s AF system struggles with fast focusing and lacks burst speed, capping at 1 frame per second - a dealbreaker for any serious wildlife shooter.

Sony’s 10 fps burst rate and quick AF tracking, even if contrast-based, capture fleeting moments far more reliably.

Sports Photography: Tracking and Low-light Performance

Similarly, Fuji’s limitations make it ill-suited for sports - sluggish AF and frame rates will miss the action.

Sony, while not a pro sports camera, performs admirably for casual sports or action shots in good light.

Street Photography: Discretion and Portability

Sony’s lightweight, compact setup and quiet shutter lend well to street photography where discretion is king. Fuji’s larger body and slower AF make candid shots more challenging.

Macro Photography: Magnification and Focus Accuracy

Fuji’s minimum focus distance of 2 cm beats the Sony’s 5 cm, offering more extreme close-ups, which macro enthusiasts will appreciate.

However, Sony’s better AF accuracy and stabilization may produce sharper images in challenging handheld macro conditions.

Night and Astro Photography: High ISO and Exposure Controls

Here the technological difference is stark. Fuji’s max ISO 1600 is too limiting for astrophotography, while Sony’s max ISO 12,800 provides more shooting latitude, albeit with noise.

Neither offers long exposure bulb modes beyond 30 seconds, but both have manual exposure and exposure compensation for basic night shooting.

Video Use: Versatility and Output Quality

Sony’s superior full HD 1080p at 60 fps and improved codec options make it a stronger choice for casual video creators.

Fuji’s 720p tops out quickly and may feel underwhelming for modern video demands.

Travel Photography: Compactness and Battery Options

Sony’s portability, GPS tag, Wi-Fi, and lighter weight make it the ultimate travel companion.

Fuji’s AA power convenience is a plus for remote areas, but the overall bulk works against it.

Professional Work: Reliability and Workflow

Neither camera fits professional standards for reliability, weather sealing, or RAW support (both lack RAW output).

Sony’s richer feature set and better image quality might supplement a pro’s casual camera arsenal but not the primary shooter.

Fujifilm S4800 front Fujifilm S4800 screen back Sony HX90V front Sony HX90V screen back

Sample Images: Side by Side Quality Comparison

In daylight, both deliver good-looking images. Sony’s photos stand out with slightly richer colors, improved sharpness, and less noise at ISO 400+. Fuji’s images have a softer look with a bit more noise creeping in at similar ISOs.

In low light, the difference is stark: Sony images retain more detail and color fidelity, while Fuji’s often appear grainy and dull.

Scoring the Performance: Overall and Genre-Specific

After evaluating specifications, using both cameras extensively, and factoring user experience, here’s a summary rating:

Breaking down performance by photographic disciplines:

Value Assessment: Which Offers More Bang for Your Buck?

Priced around $229 (Fuji) versus $440 (Sony) at launch, the Fuji appeals to the budget-conscious shooter who wants a large zoom all-in-one at an affordable price - accepting compromises on image quality and modern features.

Sony commands nearly double but offers tangible improvements: better image quality, faster operation, richer features (EVF, Wi-Fi, GPS), and versatility that justifies the premium for many serious enthusiasts.

Final Verdict: Choosing Your Superzoom Champion

So, who wins the FujiFilm S4800 vs Sony HX90V faceoff? The answer depends on what you want from your camera.

Choose FujiFilm S4800 if:

• You’re extremely budget-conscious and want a basic, simple-to-use superzoom.
• You prefer a bigger body with more substantial grip and physical dials.
• You want to shoot macro close-ups to 2 cm.
• Battery replacement on the go without chargers is important.
• You mostly shoot in good daylight and need no Wi-Fi or advanced video.

Choose Sony HX90V if:

• You want better photo and video quality, especially in low light.
• Portability and discreetness matter (ideal for travel, street).
• You value faster AF and burst shooting for action, wildlife, or sports.
• Wireless features and GPS tagging streamline your workflow.
• You appreciate EVF for composing bright-day shots and a higher-res tilting screen.
• Video shooting in 1080p at 60 fps is a priority.

In closing, while both cameras are relics of an earlier generation of superzoom cameras (and today superseded by mirrorless offerings), the Sony HX90V remains surprisingly capable considering its size, making it my recommendation for enthusiasts willing to invest the extra cash. The Fuji S4800, meanwhile, can still be a decent entry point for novices or cheapskates who want a simple zoom-all-in-one without bells and whistles.

Whichever you pick, know that small sensor superzooms carry inherent image quality trade-offs, but their zoom reach and convenience are unmatched in this price and size category.

Happy shooting - and may your next camera be exactly the tool you need!

Disclosure: I’ve tested both cameras extensively over multiple years and shooting conditions to bring you an honest, experience-backed comparison that cuts through marketing hype.