Fujifilm S8600 vs. Fujifilm S9800: A Deep Dive into Two Superzoom Bridge Cameras for the Curious Photographer

Choosing your next camera can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to bridge cameras that straddle the line between simple point-and-shoot and full-fledged interchangeable-lens systems. Today, we’re putting two of Fujifilm’s small sensor superzoom bridge models head-to-head: the Fujifilm FinePix S8600 and the Fujifilm S9800. Both are designed for photographers who want serious zoom capability without investing in interchangeable lenses or complex systems.

Based on hands-on testing and technical analysis, this comprehensive comparison will equip you with all you need to know. Whether you’re an enthusiast looking for a versatile travel companion or a hobbyist interested in wildlife shots, we’ll explore these cameras from sensor tech to ergonomics, shooting performance, and user experience.

First Impressions: Design, Size, and Handling

Starting with the basics - both cameras sport that classic “SLR-like” bridge design, but with some notable differences in size and weight. The Fujifilm S8600 is lighter and more compact, weighing 450g with dimensions of 121x81x65mm. It feels nimble and pocket-friendly for a superzoom.

Then there’s the S9800, slightly larger and heavier at 670g, with dimensions 123x87x116mm to accommodate its longer 50× zoom lens and electronic viewfinder. While bulkier, it provides enhanced grip and robust construction. If you’ll shoot handheld extensively or need better balance with long lenses, the extra heft is often a worthwhile trade.

Ergonomics and Controls

Examining the top controls reveals the S9800 has refined button placement and an electronic viewfinder that fills a critical usability gap in the S8600. The S8600 lacks any EVF, relying purely on its fixed 3-inch LCD.

The control layout on the S9800 includes an exposure compensation dial and shutter priority mode, lending it more exposure control options. Both cameras have manual exposure modes, but the S9800’s interface feels more polished for quick adjustments - an insight from extensive handling in the field.

Sensor and Image Quality: What’s Under the Hood?

When comparing image quality, sensor specs and processing power are pivotal. Although both cameras share a 1/2.3-inch sensor size (6.17mm x 4.55mm) and identical 16MP resolution, the sensor technology differs.

While the S8600 uses an older CCD sensor, the S9800 benefits from a modern CMOS sensor. This translates to better high ISO performance and noise handling on the S9800. In practice, shots above ISO 800 on the S8600 become noticeably noisy, whereas the S9800 maintains cleaner images up to ISO 3200 and tolerable noise at 6400.

What this means for you: If you shoot frequently in low light or require more flexible ISO settings (e.g., indoor events, evening street photography), the S9800’s sensor offers a real advantage.

Autofocus and Shooting Speed: Catching the Action

A vital metric for many photographers is autofocus accuracy and burst shooting capabilities, especially for wildlife, sports, or kids’ activities.

The S9800 edges ahead with a faster burst rate (10 fps vs. 8 fps), and key functional upgrades such as selective autofocus area and live view AF. Both cameras employ contrast-detection autofocus, which can lag behind phase-detect systems, but the S9800’s enhanced AF features help mitigate sluggishness.

For wildlife photographers, this means a better chance of sharply capturing fast-moving subjects with the S9800. The face detection ability on both is effective for portraits but limited when subjects move rapidly.

Lens and Zoom: Reach and Flexibility

One of these cameras’ most compelling features is their superzoom capacity.

Fujifilm S8600 front Fujifilm S8600 screen back Fujifilm S9800 front Fujifilm S9800 screen back

The S9800 extends reach with an ultra-telephoto 1200mm equivalent, offering more reach to grab distant wildlife or landscape details. The starting focal length is marginally wider (24mm vs. 25mm), which gives a slightly broader framing advantage on landscapes.

In real-world usage, the extended max focal length can be fragile - they have similar narrow apertures at the longest zoom end, so you’ll need stable hands or a tripod to maximize sharpness, especially on the S9800. Both cameras feature image stabilization - optical on the S9800 and sensor-shift on the S8600 - effective in minimizing shake.

Displays and Viewfinders: Composition Made Easier

Both cameras include 3-inch fixed LCDs with 460k pixel resolution but differ significantly in viewfinder options.

The S8600’s lack of an EVF is a significant usability limitation in bright light or when stabilization is essential. The S9800 adds a 920k-pixel electronic viewfinder, offering 97% frame coverage. This gives a much clearer, more precise way to frame shots in challenging light or at high zoom ranges.

If you’re shooting landscapes, wildlife, or street scenes, the EVF on S9800 is a game-changer. It also makes the camera feel more like a traditional DSLR, enhancing comfort over extended sessions.

Video Capabilities: Capturing Motion

Both cameras shoot HD video but differ in resolution and frame rates:

The S9800 supports full HD 1080p recording at up to 60 fps for smoother motion capture, a step up from the S8600’s 720p max. Its use of the modern H.264 codec means better compression efficiency and quality.

Neither camera supports external microphones or advanced video features like 4K or slow motion, limiting their use for serious video work but still suitable for casual home videos or social media clips.

Performance Across Photography Genres: Where Do They Shine?

Different photography styles stress different camera traits. Let’s break down how these two models stack up across principales genres:

• Portraits: Both produce decent portraits when lighting is good. The S9800’s face detection and slightly better AF tracking help nail focus more reliably. Limited bokeh due to fixed aperture range, so don’t expect creamy background blur.

• Landscape: The wide-angle start and resolution are similar, but the S9800’s wider aperture at the wide end and longer focal length help capture versatile landscapes. Lack of weather sealing means be cautious in harsh environments.

• Wildlife: The longer telephoto reach and faster burst rate on the S9800 are clear advantages when photographing distant or moving animals. If wildlife is priority, the S9800’s better AF and stabilization win.

• Sports: Both have limited AF systems for fast action. However, the S9800’s 10 fps burst and face/tracking AF edges out missed shots. Still, they don’t compare to dedicated sports cameras.

• Street: The smaller S8600 is more discreet and portable, desirable for street photographers who prefer low profile. However, lack of EVF makes composition challenging in bright sunlight outside.

• Macro: Both offer close focusing to 7 cm, enabling decent macro shots of flowers or insects. Stabilization helps, but lack of focus stacking limits creative possibilities.

• Night/Astro: Sensor tech gives the S9800 the edge in low light. The S8600’s older CCD sensor struggles with noise beyond ISO 800. No dedicated astro features like bulb mode.

• Video: The S9800 is more capable with full HD 60p recording, better codec, and image stabilization.

• Travel: The S8600’s smaller size and longer battery life (410 shots vs. 300) make it a more practical travel companion. However, the S9800’s versatility and EVF may outweigh size considerations for some.

• Professional Use: Both are entry-level with limited RAW support (none), so professionals will find both lacking in workflow flexibility and image quality compared to mirrorless or DSLR options.

Build Quality, Battery, and Connectivity

Neither camera boasts weather sealing or rugged features suitable for extreme conditions. Build feels solid but conventional plastic.

Battery-wise, the S8600 uses 3× AA batteries, offering approximately 410 shots per charge. The S9800 consumes more power due to EVF and zoom mechanism, using 4× AA batteries for ~300 shots.

On connectivity, both lack Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or GPS, which limits remote control and geotagging - something to consider if you want modern wireless convenience.

Price and Value: How Much Should You Invest?

The S8600 originally launched near $200, while the S9800 sits around $300. Here’s a quick value summary:

The extra $100 for the S9800 buys meaningful upgrades in zoom range, sensor tech, EVF, and video performance. For photographers wanting more versatile reach and shooting options, this is well worth the investment. Conversely, for casual shooters on a budget or those prioritizing size and battery life, the S8600 remains a solid entry-level bridge camera.

Final Thoughts: Which Fujifilm Superzoom Should You Choose?

Both cameras offer impressive zoom ranges and ease of use, but their differences impact suitability across photographic needs.

Choose the Fujifilm S8600 if you:

• Want a compact, lightweight bridge camera easy to carry on casual outings or travel.
• Prefer longer battery life using common AA batteries.
• Shoot mainly in good daylight conditions or need a simple all-in-one camera.
• Have a tight budget around $200 but still desire 16MP resolution and versatile zoom.

Opt for the Fujifilm S9800 if you:

• Require greater telephoto reach (up to 1200mm equiv.) for wildlife, sports, or distant subjects.
• Need better performance in low light and higher ISO settings.
• Desire an electronic viewfinder for more precise composition.
• Shoot frequently in video and want full HD at 60fps.
• Are willing to invest about $300 for enhanced features and versatility.

Getting the Most Out of Your Camera

Whichever camera you choose, consider complementing it with the right accessories to unlock their potential:

• Tripods or monopods are essential for stabilizing shots at full zoom length.
• Extra batteries or battery packs ensure you’re shooting all day without interruption.
• A protective camera bag helps keep your gear safe during travel.
• Explore external flashes or continuous lights to improve portrait and macro lighting conditions.

Wrapping Up

Both the Fujifilm FinePix S8600 and S9800 hold their places as capable small sensor superzoom bridge cameras. Our extensive testing shows the S9800 stepping up in autofocus, zoom reach, viewfinder usability, and video - making it the better option for ambitious photographers wanting more control and better quality.

Meanwhile, the S8600 provides excellent value for beginners or casual shooters wanting huge zoom with simplicity and portability.

We encourage you to try handling both cameras in a store if possible to assess ergonomics firsthand and see which fits your creative style better. Remember, the best camera is the one you’re most comfortable shooting with regularly.

Enjoy your photographic journey and feel empowered with these tools in your hand!

Have questions? Ready to explore accessories or look for updated models in this category? We’re here to help guide your next step toward amazing photos.