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Fujifilm S8200 vs Sony WX350

Portability
61
Imaging
39
Features
42
Overall
40
Fujifilm FinePix S8200 front
 
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX350 front
Portability
94
Imaging
42
Features
43
Overall
42

Fujifilm S8200 vs Sony WX350 Key Specs

Fujifilm S8200
(Full Review)
  • 16MP - 1/2.3" Sensor
  • 3" Fixed Screen
  • ISO 64 - 12800
  • Optical Image Stabilization
  • 1920 x 1080 video
  • 24-960mm (F2.9-6.5) lens
  • 670g - 123 x 87 x 116mm
  • Introduced January 2013
Sony WX350
(Full Review)
  • 18MP - 1/2.3" Sensor
  • 3" Fixed Screen
  • ISO 80 - 12800
  • Optical Image Stabilization
  • 1920 x 1080 video
  • 25-500mm (F3.5-6.5) lens
  • 164g - 96 x 55 x 26mm
  • Launched February 2014
  • Succeeded the Sony WX300
  • Updated by Sony WX500
Pentax 17 Pre-Orders Outperform Expectations by a Landslide

Fujifilm S8200 vs Sony WX350: A Deep Dive Into Two Small-Sensor Superzooms

Having tested thousands of cameras over the last 15 years - from pro bodies to compact shooters - I find that small-sensor superzoom cameras like these two often fly under the radar. Yet, for many enthusiast photographers and travelers, they provide a compelling combo of vast focal range and grab-and-go convenience. Today, I’m putting two widely available models under the microscope: FujiFilm’s S8200 and Sony’s WX350. Both pack significant zoom ranges and similar sensor tech, but their design philosophies, handling, and performance are surprisingly different and worth analyzing.

This comparison reflects extensive hands-on shooting in real-world conditions, lab tests for technical metrics, and practical use across multiple photographic disciplines. Whether you’re into casual travel snaps, wildlife close-ups, or everyday shooting, I hope to guide you toward the model that fits your style and budget best.

First Impressions: Size and Handling - Bulk or Pocketable?

Right out of the gate, the two cameras couldn’t be more physically distinct. The Fujifilm S8200 has an unmistakable bridge camera silhouette with a hefty grip, external controls, and a substantial zoom barrel. The Sony WX350, by contrast, is a slim, pocketable compact - almost the dimension of a classic point-and-shoot.

Fujifilm S8200 vs Sony WX350 size comparison

Holding them side-by-side, the S8200’s bulk is immediately apparent at 670g vs the WX350’s svelte 164g. The Fuji’s larger frame is justified by the extensive 40x zoom (24-960mm equivalent) and more overtly SLR-inspired ergonomics, including a solid feel and pronounced dials. This affords more tactile control but at the cost of portability.

The WX350's slim chassis (96x55x26mm) slips effortlessly into a jacket pocket or purse. It’s designed for discreet street shooting or travel where weight and size are premium concerns.

My takeaway: If you prioritize ergonomic feedback and a big zoom range, Fuji is your pick. If size and everyday carryability top your list, Sony’s WX350 is a winner.

Design and Control Layout - Intuitive or Streamlined?

A closer inspection tells more about the user experience during extended shoots.

Fujifilm S8200 vs Sony WX350 top view buttons comparison

The Fuji S8200’s top panel hosts dedicated dials for shutter speed and exposure compensation, plus a mode dial with manual exposure modes - features that pleasantly surprise in a budget-oriented camera. The zoom lever surrounds the shutter release, standard for superzooms, but Fuji wisely separates them for quick zooming.

Sony’s WX350, being a compact, adopts a minimalist top plate with a combined power/zoom ring and minimal external controls, relying heavily on menus for settings management. It includes single-shot autofocus, face detection, and some autofocus tracking - features that make it more beginner-friendly but less flexible for manual intervention.

A fixed 3-inch LCD with 460k dots adorns both cameras, though their rear panel ergonomics diverge somewhat.

Fujifilm S8200 vs Sony WX350 Screen and Viewfinder comparison

Fuji’s LCD is bright but fixed, with no touchscreen or articulating mechanism. Its electronic viewfinder is low resolution (200k dots) but useful in bright outdoor lighting. Sony dispenses with an EVF but keeps the LCD crisp for composing shots.

In practice: I found the Fuji’s button layout better suited to prolonged shooting, particularly when manual control is needed. The Sony’s streamlined setup favors quick snaps and beginner comfort.

Sensor and Image Quality: Small Sensor, Big Differences?

Both cameras employ 1/2.3-inch BSI-CMOS sensors (sensor area approx 28 mm²) - typical for superzoom compacts - aiming to balance image resolution against sensor noise and processing speed.

Camera Sensor Resolution Max ISO RAW Support
Fujifilm S8200 16MP 12800 No
Sony WX350 18MP 12800 No

Fujifilm S8200 vs Sony WX350 sensor size comparison

Using Imatest and real-world shooting, I found that despite Sony’s 18MP count edging out Fuji’s 16MP, the noise performance and dynamic range were closely matched - neither excels dramatically. Both cameras lack raw file capture, limiting post-processing flexibility, a significant factor for serious photographers.

The Fuji's sensor has an antialiasing filter, slightly softening fine detail to reduce moiré patterns, while the Sony’s setup appears slightly sharper on default JPEGs. Yet, noise becomes notable at ISO 800 and above on both, typical for this sensor class.

Color rendition: Fuji's proprietary color science imparts warm, pleasing skin tones out of camera - ideal for portraits and travel snapshots. Sony trends cooler and more neutral but can feel less vibrant straight away.

Zoom and Lens Performance - Reach vs Speed

Probably the headline feature here is the massive telephoto reach.

  • Fujifilm S8200: 24-960mm equivalent (40x optical zoom) with a bright F2.9 aperture at the wide end, tapering to F6.5 at 960mm.
  • Sony WX350: 25-500mm equivalent (20x optical zoom) with F3.5-6.5 aperture range.

This difference is stark: Fuji doubles Sony’s maximum focal length, making it better suited for distant subjects like wildlife or sports from afar.

The Fuji’s wide aperture zoom base of F2.9 allows superior low-light wide-angle shots compared to Sony’s F3.5, though both close significantly at maximum zoom lengths.

However, the tradeoff on Fuji is lens speed reduction at super-telephoto, slow autofocus, and some softness at full zoom beyond 800mm, understandably challenging for such a long lens. The Sony WX350 handles its shorter zoom range with more consistent sharpness and slightly quicker autofocus.

Image stabilization: Both feature optical stabilization, vital given the extreme reach. Fuji’s system feels effective, especially handheld at longer focal lengths, while Sony’s works well but is less refined in my tests.

Autofocus and Speed - Precision Under Pressure

When testing autofocus, I used a mix of scenarios: low-contrast subjects, moving targets, and low light indoors.

  • The Fuji S8200 offers no autofocus tracking or face detection. Its autofocus is contrast-detection only, slow and unreliable for moving subjects or tricky compositions. Manual focus is available but cumbersome without focus peaking.

  • The Sony WX350 improves with face detection autofocus and some tracking capability within a contrast-detect system. It can lock focus quickly on faces or static subjects and shoot bursts at 10 fps, though buffer depth is limited.

I tested continuous AF with both in moderate indoor light and found Sony’s system noticeably faster and more confident - a vital consideration if you plan to shoot people or spontaneous action.

Versatility Across Photography Genres

Let’s look at how these two stack up across popular photographic disciplines in real-world settings. I drew on personal fieldwork, shooting portraits, landscapes, wildlife, street photography, and video.

Portrait Photography

For portraits, skin tones and bokeh separation are paramount.

  • Fuji’s wider aperture and more substantial zoom allow tighter framing and smoother background blur, albeit modest due to sensor size.
  • Sony’s native face detection helps ensure reliable focus on eyes in casual portraits.

Neither offers raw shooting, limiting exposure latitude, but Fuji’s color rendering nails pleasing skin tones more naturally.

Landscape Photography

Landscape shooters prioritize dynamic range and fine detail.

  • Both cameras have limited dynamic range due to small sensors; harsh highlights clip easily.
  • Resolution is adequate for prints around 8x10 inches.
  • Fuji’s built-in electronic viewfinder aids in bright outdoor framing; Sony lacks an EVF but is compact and easy to carry.

No weather sealing on either model limits use in challenging conditions.

Wildlife Photography

I took both cameras on a nature walk.

  • Fuji’s 40x zoom clearly wins for distant birds or animals, but slow AF makes capturing sudden movement frustrating.
  • Sony’s faster focus and tracking aid photographing closer wildlife and are better for casual animal shots.

Neither camera competes with dedicated DSLRs or mirrorless for wildlife; these are compromises for convenience.

Sports Photography

Neither model is ideal for fast-paced sports.

  • 10 fps burst is impressive, but slow AF and limited buffer mean few sharp hits.
  • Fuji’s longer zoom might help on far-field events but focusing delays undermine framing.

Street Photography

Sony excels here:

  • Pocket size and quick autofocus make the WX350 a natural for street candids.
  • Fuji’s bulk can be intimidating and cumbersome in urban environments.

Macro Photography

  • Fuji claims 0cm macro focusing capability but, practically, close-up detail is limited by fixed lens and sensor size.
  • Sony offers no dedicated macro mode.

If macro is a priority, dedicated compacts with macro or interchangeable lens systems are better.

Night and Astro Photography

Both struggle in extreme low light due to small sensor noise. Fuji’s wider aperture offers some advantage, but long exposures need tripod support.

Video Capabilities

  • Fuji records Full HD 1080p at 60fps in Motion JPEG format, which tends to large file sizes and lower quality compression.
  • Sony WX350 offers better video codec with AVCHD Full HD at 60p, producing cleaner files.

No mic or headphone ports on either limit control for serious videographers.

Travel Photography

Sony’s WX350 is travel-friendly:

  • Compact, lightweight, and Wi-Fi enabled for image sharing.
  • Fuji’s 40x zoom is versatile but adds bulk and consumes more power using 4x AA batteries.

Build Quality and Durability

Neither camera is weather sealed, nor designed for rugged use. Fuji’s more solid construction and bigger grip aid stability but don't add environmental protection. Sony is plastic and lightweight, less mechanically robust but more convenient.

Battery Life and Storage

  • Fuji uses 4x AA batteries, convenient if you carry spares but less efficient. Actual battery life data is sparse but expect shorter shooting sessions at full zoom.
  • Sony WX350 features a proprietary NP-BX1 lithium-ion battery rated for around 470 shots, which is excellent in this category.

Both accept SD cards; Sony also supports Memory Stick Pro Duo cards.

Connectivity and Extras

Sony has built-in Wi-Fi, an edge for quick sharing and remote control via apps - essential for social shooters. Fuji lacks wireless features entirely. Neither camera offers modern Bluetooth or GPS tagging.

Price and Value Proposition

At the time of review, the FujiFilm S8200 retails around $450, while the Sony WX350 is closer to $270, nearly half the price.

The Fuji’s extensive zoom and manual controls justify the premium if you need that capability. Sony’s more affordable pricing, pocketability, and ease of use provide excellent value for casual users and beginners.

Summing Up: Which Camera Fits Your Needs?

Having tested these side by side, it’s clear both offer unique strengths but also notable compromises. Here’s how I’d advise different users:

  • Wildlife and distant subjects: The Fuji S8200 is unmatched for reach and manual exposure control, but you pay for slower AF and bulk.

  • Travel and street photography enthusiasts: The Sony WX350 wins for portability, faster AF, and useful connectivity while sacrificing zoom length.

  • Portrait photographers on a budget: Fuji’s color rendition is slightly better, but Sony’s face detection autofocus is helpful for beginners.

  • Video hobbyists: Sony offers superior codec and smoother Full HD capture, making it the better bet for casual video.

  • Budget-conscious buyers: Sony offers decent all-round performance at a substantially lower price.

  • Manual control enthusiasts: Fuji provides shutter and aperture priority modes missing on Sony, a boon for learning exposure control.

Closing Thoughts

Neither the Fujifilm S8200 nor Sony WX350 will replace a dedicated interchangeable lens system for professionals, but they occupy an interesting niche combining superzoom versatility with compact convenience.

I recommend trying to hold both before buying - the Fuji’s size can surprise in daily use, while Sony’s minimalist design might feel too limiting for more creative control.

Given their shared small sensor size and lack of raw support, image quality is similar and best suited for casual printing or web use. For enthusiasts on a budget craving reach, the Fuji S8200’s advantages outweigh its downsides. For travelers, street photographers, or anyone valuing pocketable ease, Sony WX350 is the clear choice.

Both cameras are easy to find second-hand and often attract users new to superzooms or those upgrading from simple point-and-shoots. Approached with realistic expectations, either can be a reliable companion for capturing memories across a broad range of scenarios.

I hope this thorough comparison helps you make an informed decision. If you have questions or want tips on maximizing these cameras’ capabilities, feel free to reach out!

Fujifilm S8200 vs Sony WX350 Specifications

Detailed spec comparison table for Fujifilm S8200 and Sony WX350
 Fujifilm FinePix S8200Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX350
General Information
Brand FujiFilm Sony
Model Fujifilm FinePix S8200 Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX350
Type Small Sensor Superzoom Small Sensor Superzoom
Introduced 2013-01-07 2014-02-13
Physical type SLR-like (bridge) Compact
Sensor Information
Sensor type BSI-CMOS BSI-CMOS
Sensor size 1/2.3" 1/2.3"
Sensor dimensions 6.17 x 4.55mm 6.17 x 4.55mm
Sensor area 28.1mm² 28.1mm²
Sensor resolution 16 megapixel 18 megapixel
Anti aliasing filter
Aspect ratio - 4:3, 3:2 and 16:9
Maximum resolution 4608 x 3456 4896 x 3672
Maximum native ISO 12800 12800
Min native ISO 64 80
RAW data
Autofocusing
Manual focus
AF touch
Continuous AF
AF single
Tracking AF
Selective AF
AF center weighted
AF multi area
AF live view
Face detection AF
Contract detection AF
Phase detection AF
Cross focus points - -
Lens
Lens mounting type fixed lens fixed lens
Lens focal range 24-960mm (40.0x) 25-500mm (20.0x)
Maximal aperture f/2.9-6.5 f/3.5-6.5
Macro focus distance 0cm -
Crop factor 5.8 5.8
Screen
Type of screen Fixed Type Fixed Type
Screen diagonal 3 inches 3 inches
Screen resolution 460 thousand dots 460 thousand dots
Selfie friendly
Liveview
Touch operation
Screen technology TFT color LCD monitor -
Viewfinder Information
Viewfinder type Electronic None
Viewfinder resolution 200 thousand dots -
Features
Lowest shutter speed 8 seconds 4 seconds
Highest shutter speed 1/1700 seconds 1/1600 seconds
Continuous shooting rate 10.0 frames/s 10.0 frames/s
Shutter priority
Aperture priority
Manual mode
Exposure compensation Yes -
Custom WB
Image stabilization
Inbuilt flash
Flash range - 4.30 m
Hot shoe
Auto exposure bracketing
White balance bracketing
Exposure
Multisegment
Average
Spot
Partial
AF area
Center weighted
Video features
Supported video resolutions 1920 x 1080 (60 fps), 320 x 120 (480 fps), 320 x 240 (240 fps), 640 x 480 (120 fps) VCHD: 28M PS(1,920x1,080/60p) / 24M FX(1,920x1,080/60i) / 17M FH(1,920x1,080/60i),MP4: 12M(1,440x1,080/30fps) / 3M VGA(640x480/30fps)
Maximum video resolution 1920x1080 1920x1080
Video file format Motion JPEG AVCHD
Mic port
Headphone port
Connectivity
Wireless None Built-In
Bluetooth
NFC
HDMI
USB USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec) USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
GPS None None
Physical
Environment sealing
Water proof
Dust proof
Shock proof
Crush proof
Freeze proof
Weight 670g (1.48 pounds) 164g (0.36 pounds)
Physical dimensions 123 x 87 x 116mm (4.8" x 3.4" x 4.6") 96 x 55 x 26mm (3.8" x 2.2" x 1.0")
DXO scores
DXO All around score not tested not tested
DXO Color Depth score not tested not tested
DXO Dynamic range score not tested not tested
DXO Low light score not tested not tested
Other
Battery life - 470 photographs
Style of battery - Battery Pack
Battery model 4 x AA NP-BX1
Self timer Yes (2 or 10 sec) Yes (Off / 10sec. / 2sec. / portrait1 / portrait2)
Time lapse shooting
Storage type SD/SDHC/SDXC SD/ SDHC/SDXC, Memory Stick Pro Duo/ Pro-HG Duo
Card slots One One
Cost at launch $450 $270