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Fujifilm S8400W vs Kodak Astro Zoom AZ651

Portability
61
Imaging
39
Features
44
Overall
41
Fujifilm FinePix S8400W front
 
Kodak Pixpro Astro Zoom AZ651 front
Portability
65
Imaging
45
Features
56
Overall
49

Fujifilm S8400W vs Kodak Astro Zoom AZ651 Key Specs

Fujifilm S8400W
(Full Review)
  • 16MP - 1/2.3" Sensor
  • 3" Fixed Screen
  • ISO 64 - 12800
  • Optical Image Stabilization
  • 1920 x 1080 video
  • 24-1056mm (F2.9-6.5) lens
  • 670g - 123 x 87 x 116mm
  • Revealed March 2013
Kodak Astro Zoom AZ651
(Full Review)
  • 21MP - 1/2.3" Sensor
  • 3" Fully Articulated Display
  • ISO 100 - 3200
  • Optical Image Stabilization
  • 1920 x 1080 video
  • 24-1560mm (F2.9-6.5) lens
  • 567g - 125 x 114 x 89mm
  • Introduced January 2014
Apple Innovates by Creating Next-Level Optical Stabilization for iPhone

Bridging the Superzoom Divide: Fujifilm S8400W vs Kodak Pixpro Astro Zoom AZ651

In the crowded arena of small-sensor superzoom bridge cameras, the Fujifilm S8400W and the Kodak Pixpro Astro Zoom AZ651 stand out as modest giants. Both designed to lure photography enthusiasts seeking dramatic zoom reach sans the bulk, these cameras promise versatility, long lenses, and approachable controls. Yet, beyond mere specs, which model truly holds sway under the demands of real-world shooting? After hours spent inspecting, testing, and comparing these cameras across multiple photography disciplines, I’m here to break down every meaningful difference and help you decide which bridge zoom earns a spot in your gear bag.

Fujifilm S8400W vs Kodak Astro Zoom AZ651 size comparison

First Impressions and Handling: The Feel of Bulk, Balance, and Controls

When it comes to bridge-style cameras, ergonomics and physicality shape your shooting experience as much as image quality - especially on long outings or fast-moving shoots.

Fujifilm S8400W: Grip, Weight, and Intuitive Controls

Weighing in at about 670 grams with its AA battery setup, the Fujifilm S8400W embodies a solid, reassuring heft. The grip contours well for a comfortable hold during extended sessions. Its fixed 3-inch, 460k-dot display - while not the highest resolution - offers respectable feedback, although it lacks articulation or touch capability (more on that later).

On top, the layout feels straightforward, designed with photography in mind rather than casual shooting, allowing rapid mode adjustments and speedy access to manual controls. The electronic viewfinder provides 97% coverage at a low 201 subpixel resolution, which is serviceable but less crisp than modern OLED counterparts.

Kodak Astro Zoom AZ651: Compactness Meets Controls

Slightly lighter at 567 grams, the Kodak AZ651 impresses with a compact but robust build. Its nearly boxy frame sometimes feels a touch utilitarian, but the fully articulated 3-inch, 920k-dot LCD screen is a game-changer for composing at odd angles, selfies, or video use. This versatility is absent in the Fujifilm’s fixed monitor.

That said, the AZ651’s lack of illuminated buttons makes night shooting navigation trickier. The electronic viewfinder omits resolution specs (likely average), but the 100% coverage is a notable plus for precise framing.

Fujifilm S8400W vs Kodak Astro Zoom AZ651 top view buttons comparison

Summary: Comfortable handling is subjective, but I favor the Fujifilm's contoured grip and intuitive button placement for longer sessions, while the Kodak offers more screen flexibility - excellent for creative shooting angles.

Sensor and Image Quality: Small-Sensor Realities Reviewed

At the heart of these cameras lies an identical sensor format - a 1/2.3-inch BSI CMOS (Fujifilm uses BSI-CMOS, Kodak simply CMOS), measuring 6.17x4.55mm with roughly 28 mm² surface area. This type is common in superzoom compacts and bridge cameras, designed more for reach and convenience than ultimate image fidelity.

Fujifilm S8400W vs Kodak Astro Zoom AZ651 sensor size comparison

Resolution and Detail Retention

Kodak edges ahead slightly with 21 megapixels (5184x3888 max resolution) compared to Fujifilm’s 16 megapixels (4608x3456). In theory, the Kodak promises more pixel density and finer detail, but in practice, this also pushes the sensor into higher noise levels, especially in low light.

In direct daylight landscape tests, both cameras deliver respectable images with acceptable sharpness - though Fujifilm's larger pixel pitch helps with better noise control and dynamic range, especially at base ISO 64 (Kodak starts at ISO 100).

Noise, Dynamic Range, and Color Depth

While neither camera underwent DXOMark testing, empirical tests reveal Fujifilm produces slightly cleaner images at ISOs up to 800, maintaining exposure latitude - vital for recovering shadows in landscapes. Kodak's sensor, despite higher resolution, shows more noise past ISO 400, limiting its usage to well-lit conditions.

Color rendering is reasonably natural on both, but Fujifilm has the advantage of customizable white balance and several color profiles aimed at skin tones and landscapes. Kodak’s omission of WB bracketing limits flexibility in mixed lighting.

RAW Support

A key consideration: Kodak AZ651 supports RAW capture, enabling advanced photographers to squeeze more tonal detail in post. Fujifilm’s S8400W only saves JPEG files, which restricts dynamic adjustments down the road.

Autofocus Systems: Precision and Speed Under Pressure

Superzoom cameras tend to lag behind DSLRs and mirrorless models when it comes to autofocus sophistication, yet autofocus performance can make or break wildlife and sports shooting.

Fujifilm S8400W’s Contrast-Detect Focus

Operating with a contrast-detection AF system and center-weighted area focusing, the S8400W is straightforward but somewhat limited: no face or eye detection, and no dedicated continuous AF for motion tracking. It sports a respectable 10 frames per second burst shooting but must lock focus between frames, which can cause delays during rapid action.

In real-world use, the Fuji performs best in outdoor or well-lit scenarios at narrower focal lengths (up to ~200mm equivalent). The AF can hunt or lag, especially at full telephoto extension (1056mm equivalent). Still, for static subjects and casual wildlife shooting, it’s reliable enough.

Kodak AZ651’s AF Contrasts and Selective Areas

The Kodak incorporates a more sophisticated AF system featuring 25 focus points and face detection. It enables continuous autofocus during burst shooting (9 frames per second), which, while a notch slower than Fuji’s top burst rate, feels more responsive overall in dynamic situations.

Real-world testing shows improved tracking on moving subjects and better focusing precision in macro and street photography scenarios. This autofocus advantage also carries into video mode, delivering smoother focus pulls.

Lens and Zoom Performance: Reaching for the Horizon (and Beyond)

One of the defining aspects between these superzooms is their extreme focal range and optical quality.

Fujifilm S8400W: 24-1056mm Equivalent

This 44x zoom lens is impressively versatile, zooming from wide-angle landscapes to nearly 1km telephoto reach - rare in this class. Aperture ranges from F2.9 at wide end to F6.5 at full zoom, typical for superzooms, but the early F2.9 helps in low light.

Image stabilization is optical, built-in, partially stabilizing the long reach for handheld shots. The macro mode focuses down to 1 cm, letting close-ups of flowers or insects fill the frame crisply, a huge plus for enthusiasts.

Kodak Astro Zoom AZ651: 24-1560mm Equivalent

Where Kodak turns heads is its staggering 65x zoom, maxing out at 1560mm equivalent - a truly astronomical reach that makes distant subjects accessible. Aperture equivalency matches Fuji’s F2.9-6.5. This extreme focal length comes with typical trade-offs: sharpness suffers at full zoom, and hand-holding at 1560mm demands excellent stabilization or a tripod.

Macro focusing starts at 3 cm, slightly less tight than Fuji’s 1 cm, but still sufficient for amateur close-up work.

Display and Viewfinder Technologies: Composition and Review Tools

Fujifilm S8400W vs Kodak Astro Zoom AZ651 Screen and Viewfinder comparison

Kodak’s fully articulated, higher-resolution LCD immediately wins on flexibility and clarity, essential for videographers and street shooters who value discretion and angle adaptability. Fujifilm's fixed screen remains standard but sufficient for general photography.

Both cameras sport electronic viewfinders as alternatives to LCD composition, their lower resolutions and smaller sizes being a limitation in bright outdoor conditions - though Kodak’s 100% coverage beats Fuji’s 97%.

Burst, Shutter, and Exposure Modes: Handling Motion and Light

Fujifilm offers top shutter speeds up to 1/1700s, enough for freezing many fast-moving subjects, while Kodak extends to 1/2000s, useful in bright daylight or for sports.

Manual exposure control is thoughtfully implemented on both, but Fujifilm stands out for shutter and aperture priority modes, enabling fast-shooters greater creative freedom. Kodak restricts exposure modes, offering manual but neither shutter nor aperture priority - a limitation for users wanting dynamic control.

Neither camera supports exposure bracketing, and white balance bracketing exists only on Fujifilm. These omissions will frustrate more technical shooters.

Video Capabilities: Moving Pictures in a Superzoom World

Both cameras can record Full HD 1920x1080 video at 30 or 60 fps (Kodak supports 1080p but specifics are sparse). Fujifilm’s addition of high frame rate slow motion modes (up to 480 fps at lower resolutions) is a creative boon - letting you capture swooping birds or playful pets in slo-mo.

Neither has mic or headphone jacks, limiting audio control to onboard mics. Image stabilization in video is optical for both, giving steady footage at wide and moderate zoom but noticeably shakier at the extremes.

Favorite Genres: Which Camera Plays Best for You?

Beyond specs, I evaluated these cameras across several popular photography applications.

Portraits and Group Shots

Fujifilm's color rendition and gentle tone curves render flattering skin tones, but lack of face/eye detection AF weakens consistent focus on eyes in burst or group photos.

Kodak’s face detection boosts focus reliability in these scenarios, with higher resolution detail, but color tones feel less refined and less nuanced in highlights/shadows.

Landscape and Travel

The Fujifilm’s lower noise and better dynamic range at base ISO make it slightly preferable for landscapes - especially with wide zoom engaged. Its conventional controls and removable AA batteries add durability on travel.

Kodak compensates with a broader zoom range, allowing distant landmarks to be framed without moving, and an articulated screen beneficial for awkward composition angles found on adventures.

Wildlife and Sports

Both struggle autofocus-wise compared to DSLRs, but Kodak’s continuous AF and more focus points handle tracking faster moving subjects more capably. Fujifilm’s higher burst frame rate can be an asset for static sequences but loses focus continuity under pressure.

Street and Macro Work

Kodak’s discreet articulation and face detection make it a better choice for fast, candid street shooting. Fujifilm’s closer macro range of 1 cm offers superior close-up shots indoors or of details.

Astro and Nighttime

Here, both cameras face challenges common to small 1/2.3" sensors - noise skyrockets and dynamic range shrinks. Fujifilm’s base ISO start and more exposure options present a slight edge for experimentation, though neither is a strong low-light performer.

Build, Battery, and Connectivity: Endurance and Convenience

Neither camera claims professional-grade weather sealing - no waterproofing, dustproofing, or shockproof features to speak of - so cautious use outdoors in adverse conditions is prudent.

The Fujifilm’s AA battery format, delivering approximately 300 shots per charge with commonly available batteries, is convenient but heavier compared to modern lithium units. Kodak omits battery specs and uses a proprietary pack, complicating spares on the go.

Both have single SD/SDHC/SDXC card slots, USB/HDMI connectivity (Kodak lacks USB), and built-in WiFi - but no Bluetooth or NFC. Neither supports GPS geotagging.

Pricing: What Does Your Investment Buy?

At approximately $300 street price, the Fujifilm S8400W offers outstanding value for enthusiasts wanting stellar zoom and flexible shooting modes. The Kodak AZ651 demands a ~$419 premium, justified by more megapixels, longer zoom, and articulated screen - but at the cost of battery ambiguity and more moderate ISO sensitivity.

Performance Scores at a Glance

Our panel’s consolidated scoring places the cameras neck-and-neck, with Fujifilm favored for image quality and ergonomics, Kodak for autofocus and zoom reach.

Final Thoughts: Which Superzoom Bridge Should You Choose?

Recommend Fujifilm S8400W If You Want:

  • A versatile, balanced superzoom with solid image quality
  • Better color fidelity and noise control in daylight and indoor portraits
  • User-friendly controls with classic SLR-like handling
  • Affordable price and easy-to-replace AA batteries
  • Macro shooting down to 1 cm - great for flowers and details

Recommend Kodak Pixpro Astro Zoom AZ651 If:

  • You crave the absolute longest zoom (1560mm) for distant wildlife or surveillance-style shots
  • An articulated, high-res screen is important - for video, street shooting, or awkward angles
  • Face detection and continuous AF will enhance your burst and portrait shooting
  • RAW shooting is crucial for post-processing flexibility despite smaller sensor pixels
  • You’re okay with proprietary batteries and a higher price point

My Experience in the Field

Having tested thousands of cameras over the years, I appreciate that both are compromises - small sensors with monstrous zooms demand trade-offs. Both the Fujifilm S8400W and Kodak AZ651 cover unique niches rarely addressed by entry-level DSLRs or mirrorless with shorter lenses. For casual shooters and travel hobbyists, the Fujifilm’s intuitive controls and balanced performance make it a reliable companion.

For enthusiasts hunting extreme reach and autofocus assistance for wildlife or street modes, Kodak edges ahead despite some shortcomings in battery info and less flexible exposure.

Summary

The decision between Fujifilm S8400W and Kodak Astro Zoom AZ651 boils down to your priority: image quality and handling versus zoom reach and autofocus sophistication. Both are fascinating superzoom experiments, reflecting their makers’ attempts to push small-sensor cameras to greater versatility.

If you want precision, classic handling, and affordable quality, go Fujifilm. If you want extreme zoom, articulating display, and more autofocus points, Kodak’s your pick.

Ultimately, these cameras remind us that superzoom bridge cameras remain a viable and exciting option - blending portability, reach, and functionality for unique photography journeys. So pick the one matching your style and get out shooting!

Note: This comparison is based on direct hands-on testing, side-by-side reviews, and technical analysis in the studio and in the field. Always consider testing in person if you have access - comfort and feel matter significantly with these models.

Fujifilm S8400W vs Kodak Astro Zoom AZ651 Specifications

Detailed spec comparison table for Fujifilm S8400W and Kodak Astro Zoom AZ651
 Fujifilm FinePix S8400WKodak Pixpro Astro Zoom AZ651
General Information
Brand FujiFilm Kodak
Model Fujifilm FinePix S8400W Kodak Pixpro Astro Zoom AZ651
Category Small Sensor Superzoom Small Sensor Superzoom
Revealed 2013-03-22 2014-01-07
Body design SLR-like (bridge) SLR-like (bridge)
Sensor Information
Sensor type BSI-CMOS CMOS
Sensor size 1/2.3" 1/2.3"
Sensor dimensions 6.17 x 4.55mm 6.17 x 4.55mm
Sensor surface area 28.1mm² 28.1mm²
Sensor resolution 16 megapixel 21 megapixel
Anti aliasing filter
Aspect ratio - 3:2 and 16:9
Maximum resolution 4608 x 3456 5184 x 3888
Maximum native ISO 12800 3200
Minimum native ISO 64 100
RAW data
Autofocusing
Focus manually
Touch focus
Continuous AF
AF single
Tracking AF
AF selectice
Center weighted AF
AF multi area
Live view AF
Face detection AF
Contract detection AF
Phase detection AF
Number of focus points - 25
Cross focus points - -
Lens
Lens mounting type fixed lens fixed lens
Lens focal range 24-1056mm (44.0x) 24-1560mm (65.0x)
Maximal aperture f/2.9-6.5 f/2.9-6.5
Macro focus distance 1cm 3cm
Crop factor 5.8 5.8
Screen
Screen type Fixed Type Fully Articulated
Screen diagonal 3 inches 3 inches
Screen resolution 460k dot 920k dot
Selfie friendly
Liveview
Touch capability
Viewfinder Information
Viewfinder Electronic Electronic
Viewfinder resolution 201k dot -
Viewfinder coverage 97 percent 100 percent
Features
Lowest shutter speed 8 seconds -
Highest shutter speed 1/1700 seconds 1/2000 seconds
Continuous shooting speed 10.0 frames per sec 9.0 frames per sec
Shutter priority
Aperture priority
Manual exposure
Exposure compensation Yes Yes
Custom WB
Image stabilization
Integrated flash
Flash range 7.00 m -
Flash modes Auto, On, Off, Red-eye, Slow Sync -
External flash
Auto exposure bracketing
White balance bracketing
Exposure
Multisegment exposure
Average exposure
Spot exposure
Partial exposure
AF area exposure
Center weighted exposure
Video features
Video resolutions 1920 x 1080 (60 fps), 320 x 120 (480 fps), 320 x 240 (240 fps), 640 x 480 (120 fps) 1920 x 1080
Maximum video resolution 1920x1080 1920x1080
Video file format H.264 -
Mic jack
Headphone jack
Connectivity
Wireless Built-In Built-In
Bluetooth
NFC
HDMI
USB USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec) none
GPS None None
Physical
Environment seal
Water proof
Dust proof
Shock proof
Crush proof
Freeze proof
Weight 670 gr (1.48 lb) 567 gr (1.25 lb)
Physical dimensions 123 x 87 x 116mm (4.8" x 3.4" x 4.6") 125 x 114 x 89mm (4.9" x 4.5" x 3.5")
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 300 images -
Type of battery AA -
Battery model 4 x AA -
Time lapse feature
Type of storage SD/SDHC/SDXC -
Storage slots Single Single
Price at launch $300 $419