Fujifilm S8400W vs Kodak Astro Zoom AZ651
61 Imaging
39 Features
44 Overall
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65 Imaging
45 Features
56 Overall
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Fujifilm S8400W vs Kodak Astro Zoom AZ651 Key Specs
(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
(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

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.
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.
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.
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
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
Fujifilm FinePix S8400W | Kodak 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 |