Fujifilm SL240 vs Sony RX10 IV: A Deep Dive Into Two Superzoom Powerhouses

Choosing a superzoom camera can be a puzzling journey - the lure of extended focal range, versatility, and all-in-one convenience comes with the need to balance image quality, speed, ease of use, and price. Having personally tested both the 2012 Fujifilm FinePix SL240 and the 2017 Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV over exhaustive shoots spanning portraits to wildlife, I’m excited to unpack how these two bridge-style cameras compare across every crucial aspect.

With nearly a decade separating their launches, these cameras hail from different eras and tech tiers. The SL240 is an entry-level, small-sensor superzoom priced for beginners, while the RX10 IV targets enthusiasts and pros craving pro-grade features and large-sensor quality. Let’s see how their DNA shapes real-world performance and whether that price gap is justified.

First Impressions: Size, Build, and Handling

Picking either camera up, the difference in heft and build quality strikes immediately. The Fujifilm SL240 is compact and lightweight at just 510g. Its plastic-bodied, SLR-like shape is comfortable enough for family outings and travel where minimal bulk matters. However, the ergonomics feel basic: no touchscreen, fixed LCD, and button layout that feels sparse - more on that later.

The Sony RX10 IV, in comparison, is nearly twice the weight at 1095g and noticeably bigger. This isn’t surprising given its 1" sensor and zoom range extending to 600mm. The body construction is magnesium alloy with splash-resistant sealing, lending solid durability for outdoor, semi-pro use. The deeply contoured grip, a thoughtfully tilting touchscreen, and an impressive electronic viewfinder with 0.7x magnification make this camera a joy to hold for long sessions.

Both cameras wield fixed superzoom lenses but the RX10 IV boasts a slightly longer range and faster aperture. The physical dimension comparison image above visualizes their size difference well, highlighting RX10 IV’s trader-off in portability for robustness and capability.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality

Arguably, the most seismic difference between these two cameras lies under the hood - the sensor. The SL240 employs a conventional 1/2.3" CCD sensor measuring 6.17 x 4.55mm with 14MP resolution. This small sensor size is common in affordable superzooms but limits high ISO ability and dynamic range. Despite the decent 4288 x 3216 pixel count, the image quality plateaus quickly beyond ISO 400. The max native ISO is 1600, offering only minimal leeway for low light.

In stark contrast, the RX10 IV houses a large 1" back-illuminated CMOS sensor measuring 13.2 x 8.8mm with a 20.1MP resolution. This sensor provides a substantially larger surface area for light capture (approximately four times larger than the SL240’s CCD), translating to cleaner images, better dynamic range, and superior performance in dim conditions. The RX10’s max native ISO tops out at 12800, with a boosted setting pushing to ISO 25600, although noise does become apparent beyond 6400.

In practical terms, the RX10 IV delivers images with noticeably richer gradation, more accurate color reproduction, and finer detail retention - especially at longer focal lengths or challenging lighting. The SL240’s smaller sensor means tighter noise control only at base ISO and more detail loss in shadows and highlights.

I conducted both studio portraits and sunset landscape tests to benchmark their image quality. At ISO 100 and 200, the SL240’s colors were respectable albeit slightly muted with minor softness creeping in beyond f/5.6. The RX10 IV captured a wider tonal gamut with crispness all across its zoom range.

Autofocus and Burst Performance: Catching the Moment

For fast-moving scenarios like wildlife and sports, AF speed and accuracy are paramount - and here we see a defining gulf.

The Fujifilm SL240 uses a contrast-detection autofocus system without phase detection, supported by face detection but lacking animal eye focus or advanced tracking features. Continuous shooting maxes out at a modest 1 frame per second. In daylight, AF performance is serviceable, but in low light or fast action, it struggles to lock focus quickly, resulting in missed shots and hunting.

Conversely, the Sony RX10 IV’s hybrid autofocus combines 315 phase-detection points with contrast detection, empowering lightning-fast, precise focusing even on erratically moving subjects. The camera supports selectable AF areas, eye-detection AF (both human and animal), and continuous tracking with predictive algorithms honed from Sony’s Alpha mirrorless lineup. Sports and bird photography with the RX10 IV are a treat: the 24fps burst mode with full AF/AE tracking ensures you rarely miss the decisive moment.

For example, while photographing hummingbirds on a sunny afternoon, the RX10 IV nailed crisp wing tips mid-hover, whereas the SL240 struggled to keep focus, yielding many blurred frames.

Ergonomics, Controls, and User Interface

The control layout and menus deeply affect day-to-day shooting comfort. Both cameras prioritize simplicity befitting their segment, but the RX10 IV is a cut above.

The SL240 features a fixed 3" 460k-dot TFT LCD - decent but lacking touch capability. The rear button architecture offers zero illuminated keys for shooting in dusky conditions, and no articulated screen means tricky angles require careful positioning. There is an electronic viewfinder, but its small size and only 97% coverage limit usability.

The RX10 IV sports a 3" tilting 1.44M-dot touchscreen that greatly facilitates composition and menu navigation, plus a bright 2.36M-dot electronic viewfinder covering 100% of the frame that feels remarkably natural to the eye. Key buttons are well spaced though not illuminated, but tactile dials for shutter speed, aperture, and exposure compensation lend a very hands-on feel. The menu is logically organized and quick to navigate - ideal when fleeting chances demand fast setting changes.

Overall, the RX10 IV excels at offering flexibility and control that would satisfy advanced shooters without overwhelming beginners - a balance I haven’t seen as clearly struck in many bridge cameras.

Lens Performance and Focal Range Qualities

Both cameras feature fixed zoom lenses, a staple in the bridge category. The SL240 offers a 24-576mm (35mm equivalent) lens with an f/3.1-5.9 aperture. It impresses with its impressive 24x zoom reach, ideal for birdwatching or travel snapshots where weight limits switching lenses. Macro close focusing at 2cm is handy for casual close-ups.

Sony ups the ante with a 24-600mm f/2.4-4 lens - combining a longer zoom stretch with a significantly wider aperture range. This bright, Zeiss-branded optic is optically stabilized to counteract shake, which is vital at long focal lengths. The RX10 IV’s lens presents sharp images edge-to-edge, minimizing chromatic aberration and distortion that typically plague superzooms.

Fujifilm SL240 front Fujifilm SL240 screen back Sony RX10 IV front Sony RX10 IV screen back

In practice, this translates to portraits with a nicely blurred background on the RX10 IV due to the wider aperture possible compared to the SL240’s narrower max aperture at telephoto. Landscape shots exhibit richer detail and contrast on Sony’s lens, particularly at wide and mid-range focal lengths.

Battery Life, Storage, and Connectivity

Day-long shoots demand cameras that last - and here, Sony's RX10 IV again outperforms with a rated 400 shots per charge (using the NP-FW50 battery), while the Fujifilm SL240 reports a 300-shot battery life (NP-85 battery). While not vast, the RX10 IV’s battery endurance is more suited to extended outings where recharging options may be limited.

The SL240 supports SD/SDHC/SDXC cards through a single slot, while the RX10 IV expands versatility by adding Memory Stick compatibility alongside SD card slots. This may appeal to Sony users integrating the camera into an existing Sony ecosystem.

In connectivity, the SL240 is the more basic design, lacking wireless features and offering only USB 2.0 and HDMI ports. The RX10 IV boasts built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC, and the same physical ports but with additional microphone and headphone jacks to support serious video creation workflows.

Handling Different Photography Genres: What Shines Where?

This is where hands-on experience truly crystallizes the value differences. Having conducted targeted shoots with each camera, here’s my breakdown:

Portraits

The RX10 IV’s large sensor and fast lens deliver superior bokeh and subject isolation. Eye-detection AF ensures tack-sharp portraits even in dynamic settings. Skin tones render naturally with precise color depth. The SL240’s smaller sensor and slower lens yield decent casual portraits but can’t compete in shallow depth-of-field control or autofocus subtlety.

Landscapes

Dynamic range and resolution are paramount here. The RX10 IV’s 1" BSI CMOS sensor captures wider tonal gradations in shadows and highlights - critical during sunrise/sunset shoots. Weather sealing lets you brave light rain safely. The SL240 trails - dynamic range is limited and the lack of weather resistance reduces reliability outdoors.

Wildlife

Long reach zoom and rapid AF are vital. RX10 IV’s 600mm zoom coupled with 24fps burst and animal eye AF make it adept at shooting skittish subjects like birds and mammals. The SL240’s 576mm zoom is close but autofocus speed and accuracy limit chances to freeze fast action.

Sports

Tracking fast athletes is a tough test. The RX10 IV improves results with its advanced phase-detection AF and high burst rates, winning decisively in this category. The SL240’s 1fps continuous shooting restricts its effectiveness for sports photography.

Street Photography

Portability and discretion count here. While the SL240 is smaller and lighter for urban strolls, its plastic build feels less robust and slower AF can miss spontaneous moments. The RX10 IV’s 1kg bulk and loud zoom may intimidate candid capture but its better low light ability helps in dim environments.

Macro

The SL240’s minimum focusing distance of 2cm vs RX10 IV’s 3cm gives a slight edge in get-closer capability but the RX10 IV’s superior image quality and stabilization makes up for this in producing crisp macro shots.

Night and Astro

Large sensor, high ISO tolerance, and long-exposure capabilities are key. RX10 IV clearly excels with ISO up to 12800 and sensor stabilization to handle handheld astrophotography. SL240's limited max ISO 1600 and CCD noise make low light photography quite challenging.

Video

Here the RX10 IV shines. 4K UHD recording at 30p, fully articulated touchscreen, microphone and headphone ports, and optical stabilization allow for professional-grade video. The SL240 maxes at HD 720p and lacks audio input options, making it suitable only for casual video.

Travel

Balancing weight, zoom versatility, and image quality is paramount. The SL240’s compactness appeals to travelers on a budget or minimalist packers. Meanwhile, the RX10 IV offers best-in-class zoom and image quality but is heavier and pricier. Battery life favors the Sony as well.

Professional Work

Raw support, extensive controls, and file format flexibility are vital. Only the RX10 IV offers raw shooting and tethered connectivity, integrating well into demanding workflows. The SL240’s JPEG-only output limits post-processing latitude.

Technical Scorecard: Numeric Ratings at a Glance

To consolidate the detailed comparisons across core attributes, here's an industry-standard rating overview based on my testing and objective benchmarks:

Performance By Genre: Where Each Camera Excels

To help visualize strengths and weaknesses across various photography genres, consider this summary chart:

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

Deciding between the Fujifilm SL240 and the Sony RX10 IV boils down to your photography ambitions, budget, and priorities.

When the Fujifilm SL240 is the Smart Pick:

• You need a compact, affordable all-in-one zoom for casual photography and travel.
• Your shooting is mostly daylight, simple family portraits, or snapshots.
• Video is a low priority.
• Portability and ease of use matter above image excellence.
• Budget caps at under $300 with no expectation of professional quality.

The SL240 remains a functional, entry-level superzoom with good reach and basic features for novice users. Its CCD sensor and slower AF limit technical prowess, but it can still deliver satisfying images when used thoughtfully.

Why the Sony RX10 IV is Worth the Investment:

• You demand DSLR-level image quality but want a bridge design without lens swaps.
• Fast autofocus, long reach, and high burst rates are critical for sports or wildlife.
• Video is integral, necessitating 4K and advanced audio options.
• You shoot professionally or semi-pro for clients, exhibitions, or serious personal work.
• Durability, weather sealing, and reliable performance under diverse conditions are a must.

The RX10 IV is a tour de force bridging the gap between compact convenience and pro-grade capability. Its wealth of features and excellent image quality justify the $1700+ price tag for those serious about photography.

Photography gear is deeply personal, and only real-world use reveals a camera’s soul. My experience shows the Fujifilm SL240 as a dependable beginner’s superzoom, while the Sony RX10 IV stands as a flagship multi-use tool for enthusiasts and professionals alike.

As always, I encourage testing these cameras in hand wherever possible and matching features to your shooting style and subjects. Hopefully, this detailed comparison helps you clear the fog and find the right superzoom partner for your creative journeys.

Happy shooting!

Disclaimer: I have no affiliations with either brand. All testing was conducted with retail models under diverse lighting, motion, and environmental conditions to reflect genuine user scenarios.