Fujifilm S8200 vs Olympus SZ-30MR: The Definitive Hands-On Superzoom Showdown

When venturing into the realm of superzoom cameras, you’re looking for gear that combines versatile focal reach with ease of use, solid image quality, and features that fit your shooting style. Two intriguing options that often come up for small sensor superzoom seekers are the Fujifilm FinePix S8200 (Fujifilm S8200) and the Olympus SZ-30MR.

Both cameras target enthusiast and advanced amateur photographers wanting an all-in-one zoom without the bulk and cost of interchangeable lens systems. But which one truly delivers on versatility, handling, and image quality given their 1/2.3-inch sensor class? We’ve spent extensive hands-on time testing these two, analyzing every critical aspect from zoom performance to autofocus accuracy and ergonomics.

In this detailed comparison, you’ll find a clear breakdown of strengths and compromises based on real-world use. We cover ten major photography disciplines, deep-dive technical analysis, and practical buying advice so you can decide which superzoom suits your shooting needs - whether it’s portraiture, wildlife, or travel.

Let’s dive in.

Visual Comparison: Size, Handling, and Design

A critical consideration for many superzoom buyers is the physical size and ergonomics. Handling matters when you’re holding a camera for wildlife or sports; camera comfort directly impacts your shooting endurance and precision.

The Fujifilm S8200 has an SLR-style bridge body with solid heft and grip, weighing around 670 grams. It measures 123 x 87 x 116 mm, which gives a robust feel in your hands, especially useful with its vast 40x zoom lens. It has a substantial grip making manual control easy even for prolonged shoots.

In contrast, the Olympus SZ-30MR is a compact superzoom, much lighter at 226 grams and smaller at 106 x 69 x 40 mm. This makes it far more pocketable and discreet for travel or street photography but sacrifices the tactile control real estate of the S8200.

Ergonomically:

• Fujifilm S8200 benefits from a pronounced grip, a comfortable shutter button placement, and a traditional mode dial.
• Olympus SZ-30MR compensates with a compact, sleek design but less grip and a simplified control layout.

For users favoring firm hold and control, Fujifilm’s design wins; casual, on-the-go photographers prioritizing pocketability will appreciate Olympus’ compactness.

Control Layout and User Interface

How a camera’s buttons, dials, and menus are arranged can streamline or hinder your creative workflow. Especially when changing settings in fast-moving scenarios, intuitive controls boost your confidence.

The Fujifilm S8200 shines with its SLR-style top layout featuring:

• Dedicated mode dial offering manual, aperture, and shutter priority modes.
• Easy access buttons for exposure compensation and playback.
• Electronic viewfinder alongside a fixed 3-inch LCD.

The Olympus SZ-30MR, built for simplicity, offers:

• No manual exposure modes - auto-centric operation.
• Basic control buttons without exposure compensation.
• No electronic viewfinder, relying solely on the rear LCD.

From a usability standpoint, if you chase manual control or semi-automatic exposure customization, the Fujifilm is the clear winner. Olympus is tailored more for point-and-shoot ease, making it less flexible for creative manual tweaks.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality Insights

Image quality is the heart of any photographic device, heavily influenced by sensor size, resolution, and processing engines.

Both cameras use a 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor measuring approximately 6.17 x 4.55 mm, with 16-megapixel resolution (4608 x 3456 pixels). This sensor size is typical for superzooms and compact cameras, balancing zoom capability and sensor sensitivity.

Key differences:

• The Fujifilm employs a BSI-CMOS sensor promising better low-light sensitivity by capturing more incoming light.
• Olympus’ sensor is paired with the TruePic III+ processor, providing solid noise reduction and color rendering.

ISO range comparison:

• Fujifilm: ISO 64–12800 (no RAW support)
• Olympus: ISO 80–3200 (no RAW support)

In practice, both cameras struggle with noise beyond ISO 800 due to the small sensor size. However, Fujifilm’s wider ISO range provides more exposure flexibility, though at high ISO the noise becomes pronounced and limits usability.

Color Rendering:

• Fuji’s sensor delivers natural skin tones and vibrant colors, ideal for portraits and casual shooting.
• Olympus provides punchy, contrasty images with slightly boosted saturation, which appeals for travel snaps.

The absence of RAW format support on both limits photographers who want extensive post-processing flexibility. For JPEG shooters, each competes closely, with Fujifilm edging slightly in sharpness and noise performance.

Evaluating LCD and Viewfinder Usability

The LCD quality and viewfinder presence impact framing and reviewing your shots, particularly in bright sunlight or variable shooting conditions.

• Both models feature a 3-inch, fixed TFT color LCD with roughly 460k dots - adequate for general shooting but not exceptional in resolution.
• The Fujifilm S8200 has an electronic viewfinder (EVF) albeit modest with 200k dots, improving compositional precision when shooting at long telephoto or in bright light.
• The Olympus SZ-30MR lacks any EVF, relying exclusively on the rear LCD.

For outdoor use or telephoto framing, Fujifilm’s EVF is a valuable addition, offering eye-level stability for images and videos. Olympus users must depend on the LCD, which can struggle under direct sunlight.

Autofocus Systems and Tracking Performance

Focus speed and accuracy are crucial for capturing sharp images of fast-moving subjects - especially wildlife, sports, and macro photography.

• The Fujifilm S8200 lacks advanced AF technologies such as face detection, continuous AF, or tracking; it uses contrast-detection AF only and manual focus through a physical ring.
• The Olympus SZ-30MR offers slightly better autofocus capabilities with single AF and AF tracking, plus face detection enabled by contrast-detect AF.

In testing:

• Neither camera delivers rapid autofocus comparable to mirrorless or DSLR standards.
• Olympus does a better job locking focus on faces or stationary subjects.
• Fujifilm’s AF is slower to lock and may hunt extensively, especially near maximum zoom.
• Continuous AF or AF tracking is not effective enough for high-speed sports or wildlife shots on either camera.

For critical uses like wildlife or sports, neither camera excels, but Olympus has a modest edge in AF reliability for everyday shooting.

Zoom Performance and Lens Versatility

One of the biggest draws of superzoom cameras is the lens focal length range.

Feature	Fujifilm S8200	Olympus SZ-30MR
Zoom Type	Optical Superzoom	Optical Superzoom
Focal Length (35mm-eq)	24–960 mm (40x zoom)	25–600 mm (24x zoom)
Max Aperture	f/2.9–6.5	f/3.0–6.9
Macro Focusing	0 cm	1 cm

The Fujifilm S8200 offers an extraordinarily long 40x zoom reaching an ultra-telephoto 960 mm equivalent. This makes it highly versatile for distant wildlife, sports, or landscapes where reach is essential.

The Olympus SZ-30MR trades a bit of reach for a smaller zoom of 24x, maxing out at 600 mm. This is still a broad range but less than Fujifilm’s. However, Olympus compensates with better macro capability down to 1 cm, making it more adept for close-up photography like flowers or insects.

Image stabilization:

• Fujifilm uses optical image stabilization in the lens, which is effective at reducing camera shake.
• Olympus uses sensor-shift stabilization, stabilizing the sensor itself for shake reduction.

Both stabilization types help handheld shooting at long zooms, but Fujifilm’s lens-based stabilization is slightly more aggressive and effective at the super-telephoto end.

Burst Shooting and Video Capabilities

For action photography and casual video, frame rate and recording specs matter.

Specification	Fujifilm S8200	Olympus SZ-30MR
Max Continuous Shooting	10 fps	2 fps
Video Resolution	1920x1080 @ 60 fps	1920x1080 @ 30 fps
Video Format	Motion JPEG	MPEG-4
Microphone Port	No	No

The Fujifilm offers a high-speed burst of 10 frames per second at full resolution, beneficial for sports or wildlife sequences. However, burst length is limited and buffer clearing can be slow.

The Olympus SZ-30MR has a pedestrian 2 fps burst - unsuitable for fast action but okay for casual shooting.

In video:

• Fujifilm supports Full HD 1080p video at 60fps, allowing smooth motion capture, albeit saved in less efficient MJPEG format leading to larger file sizes.
• Olympus records 1080p at 30fps in MPEG-4 format, which is more compression-efficient.

Neither camera offers external microphones or advanced video features, so they serve primarily for casual video rather than professional vlogging or filmmaking.

Battery Life and Storage

Shooting endurance and memory capabilities affect your time in the field.

Specification	Fujifilm S8200	Olympus SZ-30MR
Battery Type	4 x AA batteries	LI-50B Rechargeable
Battery Life	Variable (no official)	220 shots per charge
Storage	SD/SDHC/SDXC	SD/SDHC/SDXC

The Fujifilm’s reliance on four AA batteries offers the advantage of easy replacement anywhere, but battery life can be inconsistent and heavy to carry spares.

Olympus’ dedicated lithium-ion battery provides a rated 220 shots per charge, more precise but requires charging infrastructure.

Both support standard SD card slots suitable for affordable, widely available media.

Build Quality and Weather Resistance

Neither camera offers weather sealing, dustproofing, or shock resistance, which is expected given their consumer grade.

Build quality:

• Fujifilm S8200 has a solid, robust feel with a textured grip.
• Olympus SZ-30MR emphasizes lightweight design with durable plastics.

If ruggedness is a priority, you’ll want to consider more advanced models or protect your gear externally.

Who Should Choose Which? Recommendations by Use Case

Let’s break down how these cameras stack up for your specific photography interests.

Portrait Photography

• Fujifilm S8200: Better color accuracy and skin tone rendering; comfortable handling to frame close-ups; longer zoom helpful for candid portraits.
• Olympus SZ-30MR: Good with face-detection autofocus aids, but limited manual control restricts creative expression.

Recommendation: Choose Fujifilm if you want more control and color.

Landscape Photography

• Fujifilm S8200: Excellent telephoto reach captures distant details; effective stabilization helps handheld shots.
• Olympus SZ-30MR: Lightweight for travel but limited zoom range; decent color vibrancy.

Recommendation: Fujifilm for serious landscapes; Olympus if light packing is key.

Wildlife Photography

• Fujifilm S8200: 40x zoom and optical stabilization enable distant animal capture.
• Olympus SZ-30MR: Smaller zoom and slower AF limit wildlife shooting.

Recommendation: Fujifilm is the better choice for wildlife enthusiasts.

Sports Photography

• Fujifilm S8200: 10 fps burst useful for action; decent zoom.
• Olympus SZ-30MR: Slow 2 fps burst and AF don’t keep up with fast subjects.

Recommendation: Fujifilm for sports shooters requiring faster bursts.

Street Photography

• Fujifilm S8200: Bulky and less discreet.
• Olympus SZ-30MR: Compact, light, and fits pockets.

Recommendation: Olympus for discreet street photography.

Macro Photography

• Fujifilm S8200: No true macro focus.
• Olympus SZ-30MR: Macro focusing down to 1 cm with sharp detail.

Recommendation: Olympus for macro enthusiasts.

Night and Astro Photography

• Fujifilm S8200: Higher max ISO and manual exposure modes help night shooting.
• Olympus SZ-30MR: Limited ISO and no manual modes constrain performance.

Recommendation: Fujifilm for night enthusiasts.

Video Recording

• Fujifilm S8200: Full HD 60fps; better frame rates.
• Olympus SZ-30MR: Full HD 30fps; more efficient codec.

Recommendation: Fujifilm for smoother video.

Travel Photography

• Fujifilm S8200: Bulkier but versatile zoom.
• Olympus SZ-30MR: Lightweight and portable.

Recommendation: Olympus if size and weight matter most.

Professional Usage

• Neither camera offers RAW or professional file formats.
• Fujifilm’s manual modes benefit creative control.
• Neither ideal for professional workflow but fine for casual shoots.

Real-World Sample Image Gallery

To demonstrate the practical output from both cameras, here are side-by-side sample images showing differences in color, sharpness, and detail capture.

As you can see, Fujifilm images tend to have more natural tones and sharper details at long zoom. Olympus shows punchy color but occasionally softer details.

Scoring Their Overall Performance

After rigorous testing across multiple parameters, here are our overall ratings:

• Fujifilm S8200 scores higher points due to zoom reach, burst rate, manual controls.
• Olympus SZ-30MR scores lower overall but wins on portability and macro focus.

Breakdown by Photography Genre

Lastly, here’s how these cameras rank by specific photography types:

Final Thoughts: Which Small Sensor Superzoom Fits You?

Both the Fujifilm FinePix S8200 and Olympus SZ-30MR offer surprisingly capable photography options for their small sensor superzoom class. Your ideal choice depends primarily on how you prioritize zoom range, manual control, portability, and intended subjects.

• Choose Fujifilm S8200 if you value:

  • Extensive zoom (40x)
  • Manual control modes (aperture and shutter priority)
  • Faster burst shooting (10fps)
  • Electronic viewfinder usability
  • Night and telephoto versatility

• Opt for Olympus SZ-30MR if you want:

  • A compact, lightweight design for travel and street shooting
  • Macro focus capability with 1cm minimum focusing
  • Simpler point-and-shoot operation with face detection
  • Better battery longevity with rechargeable pack
  • Lower price point

Neither camera breaks professional ground but provide entry-level enthusiasts remarkable reach and convenience without changing lenses or complex systems.

Getting Started: Try Before You Buy

We highly recommend handling both models in person if possible. The ergonomics and control feel make a huge difference. Check out sample photos online or, better yet, test drive these cameras at a retailer.

Consider pairing your choice with rugged SD cards, spare batteries or AAs, and perhaps a protective case to get the most out of these versatile superzooms.

Summary Table of Key Features

Feature	Fujifilm FinePix S8200	Olympus SZ-30MR
Sensor	1/2.3" BSI-CMOS, 16MP	1/2.3" CMOS, 16MP
Lens Zoom	40x Optical (24-960mm eq.)	24x Optical (25-600mm eq.)
Maximum Aperture	f/2.9–6.5	f/3.0–6.9
Image Stabilization	Optical	Sensor-shift
Autofocus	Contrast detection, manual focus	Contrast detection, face detection, AF tracking
Burst Rate	10 fps	2 fps
Viewfinder	Electronic EVF (200k dots)	None
Video Resolution	1080p @ 60fps (MJPEG)	1080p @ 30fps (MPEG-4)
Exposure Modes	Manual, Aperture, Shutter	Auto only
Battery	4x AA batteries	Rechargeable Li-ion (220 shots)
Weight	670 g	226 g
Dimensions (mm)	123x87x116	106x69x40
Price at launch	$449.95	$279

Wrapping Up

Our extensive side-by-side testing reveals that the Fujifilm S8200 excels in versatility, manual control, and telephoto reach, delivering a bridge-camera experience for enthusiasts wanting in-depth control and reach without lens swapping.

The Olympus SZ-30MR shines as a travel-friendly compact superzoom, offering ease of use, solid macro capabilities, and portability at a budget-friendly price.

No matter your choice, these cameras open doors to creative photography with high zoom capabilities in a relatively affordable package. Explore your creative interests in portrait, travel, macro, or casual wildlife photography by getting hands-on with the camera that fits your style and budget best.

Happy shooting and discovering new perspectives with whatever superzoom adventure you embark on!

If you want detailed specs or inspiration for accessories and workflows with either model, just ask - we’re here to support your passion!