Fujifilm S9400W vs. Sony A7R II: An Expert Comparative Analysis for Discerning Photographers

Selecting the right camera entails far more than just scanning spec sheets. Having tested thousands of imaging devices across various brands and categories over 15 years, I bring an authoritative eye to the FujiFilm FinePix S9400W and Sony Alpha A7R II - two models that inhabit very distinct niches. This detailed comparison leverages hands-on experience, technical metrics, and real-world application across multiple photographic disciplines to help enthusiasts and professionals alike understand the practical implications behind the specifications.

Design DNA and Handling: SLR-like Superzoom vs. Pro Mirrorless

The FujiFilm S9400W, released in early 2014, sits firmly in the bridge camera category. It features a fixed superzoom lens - a defining convenience for users seeking an extensive focal range without changing glass. Its compact-but-bulky dimensions (123x87x116mm; 670g) echo an SLR form factor optimized for stability and ease of grip rather than absolute portability.

In contrast, the Sony A7R II, from mid-2015, is a professional-grade full-frame mirrorless camera built for versatility and high performance. Despite packing a larger full-frame sensor, it measures a comparable footprint (127x96x60mm) and weighs just slightly lighter (625g) due to its mirrorless construction.

The Fuji blends a traditional SLR-like grip with fixed controls tailored around its limited zoom and playback functions. The Sony offers a highly customizable interface, ergonomic dials, and a deep control layout designed for professional workflows. The A7R II’s slimmer depth owes to the mirrorless design but doesn't sacrifice sturdiness.

User Interface and Control Schema

Closely tied to ergonomics is the command architecture. The S9400W’s fixed TFT LCD screen (3" diagonal, 460k-dot resolution) and basic interface correspond with its bridge-level positioning. Navigating exposure modes such as shutter priority, aperture priority, and manual exposure is straightforward but lacks advanced customization. It has no touchscreen or articulating capability.

The Sony A7R II features a tilting 3” LCD with 1.23 million dots, enhancing both compositional flexibility and review clarity. Its electronic viewfinder (2.36 million dots, full 100% coverage) offers a significant upgrade over Fuji’s modest 201k-dot EVF with 97% coverage, crucial for critical framing in professional contexts.

A practical photographer will appreciate the A7R II's extensive physical controls, including dedicated dials for ISO, exposure compensation, and an 8-way joystick for efficient focus point selection - none of which the S9400W provides. These tools markedly improve operational speed and precision, especially in dynamic shooting conditions.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality: Tiny CMOS vs. Full-Frame BSI-CMOS

Pixel count is only part of sensor quality. The FujiFilm FinePix S9400W packs a 1/2.3” 16MP CMOS sensor (6.17x4.55mm, 28.07mm² area), typical for small-sensor superzooms. While adequate for web and casual prints, its limited sensor size constrains dynamic range, high ISO performance, and raw image finesse. It supports only JPEG output, forgoing RAW file flexibility - a critical limitation for post-processing aficionados.

The Sony A7R II’s standout feature is its 42.4MP full-frame back-illuminated (BSI) CMOS sensor (35.9x24mm, 861.6mm²). This sensor architecture notably enhances light gathering and signal-to-noise ratio, enabling both exquisite resolution and remarkable low-light capability. The model supports 14-bit RAW files, enriching tonal gradation and editing latitude.

DxO Mark scores substantiate this: the A7R II is rated 98 overall with excellent color depth (26 bits) and dynamic range (13.9 EV), whereas the S9400W lacks official DxO testing, reflecting its consumer-grade imaging limitations.

In real-world use, the S9400W produces images with competent color fidelity under optimal light but quickly struggles with noise and detail loss beyond ISO 800. The A7R II confidently delivers clean, detailed images even at elevated ISOs up to 3200 and beyond, making it suitable for professional outputs requiring large prints or extensive editing.

Autofocus and Shooting Performance

Autofocus Systems

The FujiFilm employs a contrast-detection AF system - typical for bridge cameras without dedicated phase-detect sensors. It features face detection and continuous autofocus modes but large-scale subject tracking and complex focus-area selection are absent or rudimentary. The number of focus points is unspecified, indicating a basic system excellent for controlled shooting but less dependable for moving subjects.

Conversely, the Sony A7R II integrates an advanced hybrid AF system combining phase-detection and contrast detection with 399 phase-detect points. This results in rapid, precise autofocus with reliable continuous tracking - an advantage for sports, wildlife, or event photography.

Burst and Shutter Speeds

The S9400W offers a respectable 10 fps burst mode and shutter speeds from 8s to 1/1700s. However, the limited sensor and buffer reduce practical tracking usability, especially combined with slower AF in challenging lighting.

The Sony A7R II’s maximum burst sits at 5 fps, slower yet paired with substantial buffer depth that can handle continuous shooting in RAW. Its shutter range of 30s to 1/8000s gives greater control over exposure, especially useful under bright conditions or creative scenarios. The presence of a silent electronic shutter option (though max speed unlisted) provides discreet shooting modes useful for quiet environments.

Display and Viewfinder Usability

The fixed 3" 460k-dot TFT LCD on the Fuji is functional but limiting by modern standards. It lacks touch sensitivity or articulation, which constrains composition flexibility, particularly for macro or low/high angle shots.

The Sony A7R II’s tilting 3" screen with 1.23 million dots dramatically improves user experience for critical review and menu navigation. Its 0.78x magnification electronic viewfinder with 100% coverage offers pro-level accuracy in framing and focusing - a decisive factor for portrait, landscape, and studio workflows, where precision is paramount.

Optical Systems and Lenses

FujiFilm’s Fixed Lens

The S9400W sports a remarkable 24–1200mm equivalent f/2.9–6.5 lens. This 50x zoom range is ideal for generalist photographers seeking everything from wide landscapes to extreme telephoto without swapping lenses. It excels in casual travel and wildlife scenarios where versatility is prioritized.

However, the small sensor coupled with a variable maximum aperture introduces optical compromises - softness and chromatic aberrations appear at telephoto extremes, and image sharpness varies. Absence of interchangeable lens options limits creative control.

Sony’s Interchangeable Lens Ecosystem

Sony’s E-mount lens ecosystem, numbering over 120 lenses, represents a major advantage for the A7R II. From rapid f/1.2 primes to professional telephoto zooms and macro lenses, it supports an array of specialized optics unmatched by a fixed lens camera.

Photographers targeting portraits will find excellent fast-aperture primes for creamy bokeh; landscape specialists can access ultra-wide, tilt-shift, or high-resolution macro lenses; wildlife and sports shooters benefit from pro-grade telephoto lenses with superior optics and weather sealing.

While lens purchase and management require higher investment and logistical planning, the system’s flexibility elevates image quality and creative expression well beyond the capabilities of a fixed superzoom.

Fujifilm S9400W front Fujifilm S9400W screen back Sony A7R II front Sony A7R II screen back

Real-World Image Quality and Genre Performance

Portraiture

• Fujifilm S9400W: Face detection AF helps maintain focus on subjects but lacks eye detection and advanced selection, limiting shooting efficiency. Bokeh quality is average due to sensor size and lens aperture constraints, resulting in less subject-background separation. Skin tone rendering is acceptable under good light but can lose subtle gradations in shadow or highlight areas.

• Sony A7R II: The larger sensor and superior AF system with eye detection deliver precise focus on eyes and improved subject isolation via faster lenses and shallow DoF. Natural, nuanced skin tones and gradations stand out, supporting portraitists demanding professional quality.

Landscape

• Fujifilm S9400W: The 16MP resolution with limited dynamic range results in some clipping in highlight zones and muted shadow detail. Its weather sealing is absent, cautioning photographers against inclement conditions. Optically, sharpness sharpness is average, with notable diffraction limiting at smaller apertures.

• Sony A7R II: 42MP resolution with exceptional dynamic range offers excellent tonal gradations and high detail retention in shadows and highlights, perfect for demanding landscapes. Durable weather sealing adds confidence shooting outdoors in tough conditions.

Wildlife & Sports

• Fujifilm S9400W: The 50x zoom is compelling for casual wildlife enthusiasts; however, slow AF response and limited focus point selection hinder fast subject tracking. High burst frame rates are rapidly bottlenecked by autofocus lag.

• Sony A7R II: High-precision hybrid AF with 399 points, albeit at 5 fps burst, provides superior tracking in active scenarios. Lens compatibility with telephoto zooms enables professional-grade wildlife and sports images.

Street & Travel Photography

• Fujifilm S9400W: Its bulkier size and zoom lens make it less discreet than desired for street photography. Battery usage of 4 AA batteries can be cumbersome for travel but offers flexibility where recharge options are scarce.

• Sony A7R II: Compact for a full-frame body and relatively lightweight, it balances portability with high image quality. Battery life is around 290 shots per charge - adequate but not exceptional - requiring spare batteries for extended travel. The lack of in-body flash is typical but manageable.

Macro and Night Photography

• Fujifilm S9400W: Offers macro focusing down to 1 cm, convenient for casual close-ups, though sensor limits reduce detail finesse. Low-light performance is constrained by sensor noise above ISO 800.

• Sony A7R II: No dedicated macro mode, but compatibility with specialized macro lenses allows for high-resolution close-ups. High ISO performance remains excellent up to ISO 3200+, facilitating night and astrophotography with minimal noise. Timelapse requires external apps, adding complexity.

Video Capabilities

• Fujifilm S9400W: Records 1080p at 60i and lower-resolution options at 60p and 30p, encoded in H.264. Lacks microphone/headphone ports and 4K recording, limiting its use to casual video.

• Sony A7R II: Offers 4K UHD recording at up to 30p, along with 1080p high-frame-rate options. Sensor-based 5-axis stabilization facilitates handheld shooting. Professional audio inputs for microphone/headphone allow precise sound monitoring. This makes it strongly suited for hybrid photo/video shooters.

Durability and Connectivity

The Sony A7R II incorporates weather sealing against dust and moisture intrusion, adding reliability in professional outdoor use. The FujiFilm S9400W lacks any official environmental sealing, thus requiring more cautious handling.

Connectivity on both cameras includes built-in Wi-Fi for image transfer; however, neither offers Bluetooth. The Sony supports NFC for faster pairing, and Sony's ecosystem integrates with apps allowing remote control and timelapse capture. USB 2.0 is standard on both, sufficient for tethered shooting but slower compared to newer USB 3.0 or USB-C implementations.

Battery and Storage: Practical Implications

The Fuji’s use of 4 AA batteries offers ubiquitous replacement possibilities - a potential advantage in remote or travel conditions where recharging is impractical. However, these batteries add weight and result in limited capacity compared to dedicated rechargeable packs.

The Sony uses the proprietary NP-FW50 lithium-ion pack offering around 290 shots per charge, typical for mirrorless models of its era. Coupled with its higher processing demands and EVF usage, spares are recommended for full-day use.

Each camera supports SD/SDHC/SDXC cards, with the Sony also accepting Sony’s Memory Stick variants. A single card slot limits redundancy but is standard for their classes.

Price-to-Performance Considerations

At approximately $330 retail, the Fujifilm S9400W represents an attractive entry-level superzoom bridge camera, suitable for casual use, travel photography requiring wide focal coverage, and users prioritizing simplicity and affordability.

By contrast, the Sony A7R II’s $2,900+ price tag targets serious enthusiasts and professionals demanding top-tier image fidelity, adaptable lens options, and video capabilities. The cost correlates with its high-end sensor, robust build, and comprehensive features.

For photographers investing in long-term image quality and system expandability, the Sony is clearly justified. For others emphasizing budget, convenience, and all-in-one zoom range, the Fujifilm remains a capable option.

Final Recommendations and User Scenarios

Choose the Fujifilm FinePix S9400W if:

• You seek an all-in-one, superzoom camera without interchangeable lenses.
• Your photography is casual - vacation, family, general wildlife spotting - and you prefer simple operation.
• Budget constraints prohibit investment in pro-level equipment.
• Portability is valued over image quality perfection.
• You want long battery life with easily swapped AA batteries.

Choose the Sony Alpha A7R II if:

• You require professional-grade image quality with high resolution and dynamic range.
• Your workflow demands full RAW support and extensive post-processing flexibility.
• You shoot portraits, landscapes, wildlife, sports, or video where precision autofocus and lens versatility are critical.
• Video production, including 4K capture with quality audio inputs, factors significantly into your use.
• Durability and weather sealing for challenging conditions are necessary.
• You are prepared to invest in lenses and accessories supporting your photographic goals.

Summary

The Fujifilm S9400W and Sony A7R II occupy fundamentally different positions in the photographic landscape. The S9400W condenses enormous zoom utility into a simple, affordable bridge camera, well-suited for casual users and travelers seeking versatility without complexity.

The Sony A7R II stands as a milestone in mirrorless full-frame photography, blending ultra-high-resolution imaging, innovative AF, and video prowess into a compact body embraced by advanced amateurs and professionals.

Ultimately, this comparison underscores the stark trade-offs between convenience and capability, cost and craftsmanship. Photographers should align their choice with their shooting priorities, budget, and willingness to engage with advanced systems.

This evaluation is grounded in extensive hands-on testing, side-by-side image analysis, controlled lab measurements, and real-world shooting conditions. For further photographic genre-specific nuances and sample comparisons, please refer to the embedded image galleries above.