Fujifilm S8400W vs Sony TX5: Two Cameras, Two Worlds - Which One Suits You Best?

In today’s camera market - bristling with gadgets ranging from pocket-friendly point-and-shoots to bulky super-zoom beasts - it’s easy to feel like Goldilocks searching for the “just right” camera. On one hand, you have the Fujifilm FinePix S8400W, a 2013 vintage small sensor superzoom bridging casual snapshooters and aspiring telephoto enthusiasts. On the other end, the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-TX5 sits comfortably as a rugged ultracompact style icon from 2010, built for adventure lovers wanting something splash-proof and pocket-friendly.

Both cameras tell a story of their time and intent, yet pitting them side-by-side reveals a fascinating clash: bulk versus compactness, zoom range versus toughness, control versus convenience.

After wrangling with these two for weeks (and snapping hundreds of photos across disciplines), I’m here to decode which model matches which shooting style - and whether either still holds relevance in today’s camera landscape.

Let’s dive in.

Getting Acquainted: Size, Ergonomics, and Physical Presence

Before you even power up, a camera’s feel in your hands sets the mood for shooting and sometimes decides your patient pursuit of that perfect shot. Size, weight, button layout - these matter.

The Fujifilm S8400W is an SLR-style, bridge camera that weighs in at 670 grams with dimensions of 123×87×116 mm. Its heft and design scream “serious zoom!” especially with that mammoth 44x focal range lens sticking out. You can tell the engineers aimed to mimic DSLR ergonomics, with a textured grip and well-spaced buttons.

In stark contrast, the Sony TX5 tips the scale at a mere 148 grams and measures an ultra-slim 94×57×18 mm. It’s a proper pocket rocket, with sleek lines and a minimalistic ultracompact build. Its waterproof and rugged shell offers a unique appeal for travelers and outdoor types who want photography without fuss.

To get a clearer picture of their scale differences, here’s a direct physical size and ergonomic comparison:

Holding the Fuji feels like wielding a toolkit; the Sony, more like slipping a gadget into your pocket. For photographers prioritizing portability and discretion - especially in street photography or travel - the Sony naturally beckons. Meanwhile, the Fuji’s bulk is justified by its zoom prowess and control options.

User Interface: Buttons, Screens, and Viewfinders

Convenience and control are two sides of the same photographic coin. Knowing how each camera presents information and lets you tweak settings on the fly reveals much about their intended users.

The Fujifilm S8400W embraces a traditional bridge camera interface: a fixed 3" LCD screen with 460k-dot resolution and an electronic viewfinder (EVF) with 201k dots covering 97% frame coverage. The evf isn’t spectacular but decent for a camera in its class.

The Sony TX5, by contrast, offers just the LCD screen - also 3" but with only 230k dots, and no EVF to speak of. However, the LCD is touchscreen-capable, a significant advantage in speed and navigating menus on the compact device.

Here's a top-down view to spot the button layout and design cues:

The Fuji’s button array is more complex, including direct access to shutter priority, aperture priority, exposure compensation, and custom white balance - a boon for enthusiasts wanting manual control. The Sony is minimalist, forgoing manual exposure modes entirely, favoring simplicity and point-and-shoot ease.

The Fuji’s higher resolution screen aids in framing sharpness, while the Sony’s touchscreen introduces a modern usability element uncommon in cameras of that era.

Flipping to the backs of both cameras, the difference becomes clear:

Though the Sony’s LCD resolution is lower, the touchscreen compensates by making focusing and shooting quick and fun - ideal for candid shots or those moments you can’t miss. The Fuji’s EVF and physical controls cater more to traditional DSLR users stepping into bridge cameras.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality: Small Sensors, Big Differences

Both cameras employ 1/2.3" class back-illuminated CMOS sensors - standard in compact cameras aiming for cost-effective performance. Yet, despite the similar sensor sizes, their image outputs diverge substantially due to resolution, processing, and lens integration.

A direct sensor size and specs comparison:

The Fuji S8400W boasts 16MP resolution, max ISO 12,800, F2.9-6.5 aperture lens, while the Sony TX5 has 10MP resolution, max ISO 3,200, and a slightly slower F3.5-6.3 lens.

What does this mean practically?

• Resolution and Detail: Fuji’s 16MP sensor provides finer detail capture, larger prints potential, and more cropping flexibility. Sony lags a bit but still offers respectable 10MP for web usage and small prints.

• Low-Light Performance: Fuji’s higher ISO ceiling (12,800 vs 3,200) grants more leeway in dim environments, although sensor size leaves both behind larger-sensor cameras in noise control at high ISO.

• Dynamic Range and Color: Without DXO benchmarks, my real-world shooting showed Fuji handling highlights a little better, with more natural color gradation. Sony delivered punchy but sometimes oversaturated colors, which could suit certain creative tastes.

In camera gallery comparison below showcasing real shots from both models:

Fuji outshines in landscape shots with finer details and better shadow retention, while Sony’s colors pop in bright daylight, making street scenes feel vibrant.

Focusing and Speed: Who’s Quicker on the Draw?

Autofocus on both cameras is contrast-detection based - common for compacts but slower than phase-detection systems you’d find in advanced DSLRs or mirrorless cameras.

• Fujifilm S8400W: Offers 10fps continuous shooting - a surprisingly speedy burst for this class but locks focus only in single mode, with no continuous AF tracking. Face detection and eye AF are absent.

• Sony TX5: Also 10fps burst, but burst duration is shorter due to buffer limits. It supports touch autofocus on the screen, which is intuitive for casual shooting but lacks AF tracking or face detection.

In wildlife and sports scenarios, neither camera is particularly suited for high-speed, action-packed bursts given their AF limitations. The Fuji edges slightly because of its zoom reach combined with a decent burst rate, but you’ll still miss many decisive moments.

Durability and Environmental Resistance: Rain or Shine?

If your photographic adventures take you to the beach or on rugged hikes, weather sealing is often a dealbreaker.

The Sony TX5 scores major points, being waterproof (up to 10 ft), dustproof, shockproof, and freezeproof. You can hover over streams, snap in light rain, or survive accidental drops - features uncommon in ultracompacts.

The Fuji S8400W lacks any environmental sealing, making it better suited to controlled or at least dry settings.

For outdoor buffs craving robustness in a tiny package, Sony’s design philosophy wins hands-down.

Glass and Zoom: The Tale of Two Lenses

One of the most glaring contrasts between these cameras is their zoom reach.

The Fujifilm S8400W’s fixed lens spans an astonishing 24-1056mm equivalent (44x optical zoom) range - arguably its headline feature. This massive telephoto ability combined with optical image stabilization opens up possibilities for wildlife, sports, and distant landscapes.

The Sony TX5 is more modest, with a 25-100mm equivalent (4x optical zoom) lens. While not revolutionary zoom-wise, it covers the typical wide-angle to short telephoto range suited to everyday subjects, including portraits and moderate landscapes.

This lens difference dictates their photographic niches:

• Fuji: excellent for distant wildlife, travel snapshots where a flexible zoom kills the need to swap lenses.

• Sony: ultra-portable for street, travel, and macro shots (down to 1cm focusing), but limited telephoto reach.

Battery and Storage: Staying Power and Capacity

Keeping the camera running is as critical as the shot itself.

• Fuji S8400W: Uses 4x AA batteries - either alkaline or NiMH rechargeable - with approximately 300 shots per charge. The AA power option means you can often find a replacement anywhere, but you’ll lug extra batteries.

• Sony TX5: Uses proprietary NP-BN1 rechargeable lithium-ion with manufacturer-rated battery life (though no official CIPA figure available). Lightweight but vulnerable to sudden drain without spares.

Both cameras utilize standard SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards. The Sony adds proprietary Memory Stick Duo support; however, SD cards are more convenient and cost-effective.

Connectivity and Extras: Plugging into Your Workflow

Connectivity options remain modest on both cameras.

• Fuji S8400W includes built-in Wi-Fi - which is notable for a 2013 camera - plus HDMI and USB 2.0 for image transfer. It lacks Bluetooth or NFC, and given the vintage, wireless capabilities are rudimentary.

• Sony TX5 offers HDMI and USB but no wireless connectivity, relying on cables or card readers for file access.

Neither supports external microphones or headphones, limiting video production capabilities.

Video Capabilities: Light Movie-Making

Both cameras shoot HD video, but with different specs:

• Fuji S8400W: Full HD (1920x1080) at 60 fps, H.264 codec for decent quality and smooth motion. No 4K or slow-motion beyond low-res modes. No mic input.

• Sony TX5: HD (1280x720) at 30 fps; MPEG-4 codec, which is less refined compared to H.264. Video is basic, with no advanced stabilization or audio controls.

For casual video, Fuji's better resolution and framerate make it preferable, especially if you want smoother clips.

Real-World Photography Performance: Discipline-by-Discipline

Let’s now turn to practical performance insights across various photography styles, based on methodical testing in controlled and ambient environments.

Portrait Photography

For portraits, skin tone rendition, bokeh quality, and face/eye detection often matter.

• Fujifilm S8400W: The 16MP sensor and fast-ish aperture at wide angle achieve good detail and natural skin tones, although with limited shallow depth-of-field due to sensor size. Lack of face or eye AF means manual focusing care is needed.

• Sony TX5: Smaller sensor and lower resolution soften details but produce pleasant colors. Touch AF helps nail focus quickly on faces. Portrait mode software attempts smoothing but can look artificial.

Verdict: Neither camera replaces an APS-C or full-frame for portraits, but Fuji gives more image detail; Sony is easier for casual portraits on the go.

Landscape Photography

Demanding high resolution and dynamic range, landscapes are a challenging test.

• Fuji S8400W excels with 16MP resolution and richer shadow recovery. However, sensor size limits dynamic range compared to larger-sensor cameras.

• Sony TX5 lags slightly with 10MP, lower dynamic range, and less vibrant detail, but its waterproof housing means you can get into wetter, more adventurous locations safely.

Example: Both can produce shareable landscape shots but Fuji images look more detailed, especially when printed.

Wildlife Photography

Long reach and autofocus speed dominate here.

The superzoom Fujifilm S8400W shines with a 1056mm equivalent lens. Yet, autofocus is contrast-detection based and a bit slow - hardly for fast-flying birds, but good for slower or stationary subjects.

The Sony’s short 100mm lens isn’t ideal for wildlife; autofocus is slower and no tracking AF. Its robustness could be a boon in harsh environments but limited zoom restricts distance shots.

Conclusion: Fuji is the clear choice for zoom-dependent wildlife shooting.

Sports Photography

Requires fast, continuous autofocus and high frame rates.

Neither camera truly caters to sports pros, but:

• Fuji’s 10fps burst gives a fighting chance on slower sports.

• Both lack continuous AF tracking, limiting subject acquisition.

• Sony’s short zoom and no external viewfinder limit usability.

Sports enthusiasts likely need dedicated cameras here.

Street Photography

Portability, discreetness, and quick responsiveness matter.

The Sony TX5 is tailor-made: tiny, silent, discreet, and rugged - perfect for candid shots or travel street scenes.

Fuji’s bulk and longer lens attract attention and slow down movement but zoom can frame interesting perspectives.

Macro Photography

Both cameras boast a 1cm macro focusing range but:

• Sony’s touchscreen AF simplifies focusing close-ups.

• Fuji offers optical stabilization which helps with handheld macro shots.

Both produce decent macro shots but Sony’s compactness makes it easier for spontaneous shooting.

Night and Astrophotography

High ISO performance and long exposures are critical.

• Fuji S8400W, with ISO up to 12,800 and shutter speed to 1/8 second, supports longer exposure. However, sensor noise becomes a factor at high ISO.

• Sony TX5 tops out at ISO 3200 and shutter speed 1/2 second, less versatile for night scenes.

Neither excels at astrophotography, but Fuji’s specs marginally favor low-light shots.

Video Use

For casual video, Fuji’s Full HD 60fps beats Sony’s 720p 30fps, but the lack of mic input and stabilization limit professional usability on both.

Travel Photography

Balancing weight, zoom range, and resilience:

• Sony TX5 is ideal for lightweight packs and rough conditions.

• Fujifilm S8400W offers impressive zoom versatility but adds carry weight.

Professional Workflows

Neither camera supports RAW, limiting post-processing flexibility. Fuji’s manual controls may appeal for semi-pro use, but both are primarily consumer-grade cameras.

Build Quality: Ruggedness vs. Classic Form

The Sony shines in environmental sealing, with waterproof and freezeproof features rare in compacts; Fuji has a sturdy feel but no weatherproofing.

Build comparison recap:

• Fujifilm: robust plastic with SLR-style heft.

• Sony: metal-body ultracompact with ruggedized sealing.

Price-to-Performance: Value for the Enthusiast’s Dollar

At MSRP around $299 (Fuji) and $239 (Sony), both cameras represent affordable options with different value propositions:

• Fujifilm S8400W: Exceptional zoom and control for the price, but bulk and lack of weather sealing keep it niche.

• Sony TX5: Highly portable and rugged, appealing to active users wanting a camera that survives the outdoors.

Overall Performance Personified

Here’s an overall performance rating graph based on objective and subjective tests:

And a genre-specific breakdown:

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

So, which camera is right for you? Here’s my bottom line after extensive hands-on scrutiny:

• Choose the Fujifilm FinePix S8400W if:

  • You crave a vast zoom range for wildlife or sports from a budget camera.
  • You want manual exposure controls in an SLR-style form factor.
  • You don’t mind bulk and occasional slow AF.
  • Low-light tolerance and detailed images are priorities.

• Pick the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-TX5 if:

  • Portability, ruggedness, and discretion are your mantra.
  • Your adventures involve exposure to rain, dust, or snow.
  • You prefer ease of use with touchscreen controls.
  • You shoot primarily street, macro, or vacation snapshots without needing super zoom.

Each camera shines in its niche: the Fuji as a “zoom monster” bridge, the Sony as a tough ultracompact companion.

Is either the perfect camera for a professional? Not quite. But for enthusiasts or travelers on a budget, these cameras offer intriguing options with distinctive strengths. Just be mindful of their limitations - especially no RAW support, modest sensor size, and aging features compared to today’s standards.

Photography gear may evolve rapidly, but understanding how cameras perform in real life - and matching that to your personal style and needs - is timeless. I hope this deep-dive has helped illuminate the path to your next photographic adventure.

Happy shooting!

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