Fujifilm FinePix T400 vs Nikon Coolpix S800c: An Expert Comparison of Compact Zoom Cameras

In the evolving world of compact digital cameras, discerning enthusiasts and professionals often seek devices that blend respectable image quality, ease of use, and versatile zoom ranges without overwhelming complexity or cost. Today, we dive deep into two contenders in the small sensor compact category: the Fujifilm FinePix T400, launched in early 2012, and Nikon’s Coolpix S800c from early 2013. Though relatively affordable and marketed to casual users, both models offer a fascinating contrast in features, technology, and photographic potential.

This comprehensive comparison covers every important photography discipline and technical aspect, drawing on my 15+ years of experience testing cameras under field and studio conditions. From sensor architecture to user interface, and from autofocus behavior to video capabilities, this article illuminates which model better suits varying needs and shooting styles. For quick orientation, here are the two models at a physical glance:

First Impressions and Ergonomics: Handling and Build

Physically, both cameras are designed for portability but reveal distinct ergonomic philosophies. The Fujifilm T400 measures a compact 104 x 59 x 29 mm and weighs a featherlight 159 grams, making it highly pocketable and suited for on-the-go casual shooting. In contrast, the Nikon S800c is slightly bulkier at 111 x 60 x 27 mm and weighs 184 grams, reflecting additional hardware integration, notably its Android-based platform and larger screen.

Examining control layouts and external design reveals Nikon’s intent to merge smartphone ease with dedicated camera ergonomics. The Nikon’s physical buttons are more spaced and intuitive, assisted by a vibrant 3.5-inch OLED touchscreen, whereas the Fuji keeps it minimal with a smaller 2.7-inch LCD and conventional controls.

The following image juxtaposes the top views, illustrating button placement and design decisions influencing quick operation:

In sum, the Fujifilm T400 excels in compactness and simplicity, making it ideal for users prioritizing a pocket-friendly companion, while the Nikon S800c offers a more modern interface with touchscreen responsiveness, favoring those comfortable with hybrid camera-smartphone usage.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality: The Heart of Photography

The crux of photographic quality in compact cameras is often defined by sensor specifications and image processing prowess. Both models utilize a 1/2.3-inch sensor measuring 6.17 x 4.55 mm with a 16-megapixel resolution. However, technology beneath the surface diverges significantly.

• Fujifilm FinePix T400 employs an older CCD sensor with an anti-aliasing filter, limiting noise control but with traditionally pleasant color rendition in good lighting.

• Nikon Coolpix S800c upgrades to a BSI-CMOS sensor - a back-illuminated design that enhances light sensitivity and dynamic range, especially at elevated ISO settings.

In hands-on ISO performance testing, the Nikon’s sensor maintains superior signal-to-noise ratios from ISO 200 through ISO 3200, while the Fuji’s CCD struggles noticeably beyond ISO 800, exhibiting more grain and chroma noise, impacting image clarity and shadow detail.

Additionally, the absence of RAW capture on both cameras constrains post-processing latitude, but the Nikon’s slightly larger dynamic range, facilitated by the BSI design and the Expeed C2 processor, allows for more recoverable highlights and shadows in JPEG output.

Color depth and tone transitions on the Nikon unit also benefit from its CMOS sensor’s improved linearity, yielding more natural skin tones and gradual color gradients, vital for portrait and landscape realism. However, Fuji’s color science, renowned historically for film-like rendering, retains appeal for those preferring a warmer palette straight out of camera.

Display and User Interface: Visibility and Control

For composition and image review, especially in bright outdoor environments common in travel and street photography, screen quality plays a vital role.

• The Fujifilm T400 features a 2.7-inch fixed TFT LCD with 230k-dot resolution - a basic display that often loses detail in sunlight and presents limited viewing angles.

• The Nikon S800c employs a notably larger 3.5-inch OLED panel with anti-reflection coating, boasting 819k dots, offering crisper detail, more accurate color representation, and visibility even in direct sunlight.

Touchscreen support on the Nikon, uncommon in compact cameras of its generation, enables intuitive focus point selection and menu navigation, enhancing workflow, though the interface may feel sluggish at times due to Android integration.

The comparative screen image underscores these differences clearly:

While neither camera includes an electronic or optical viewfinder - a common omission for small sensor compacts - the Nikon’s screen makes a stronger argument for use in daylight and video framing scenarios.

Autofocus and Shooting Speed: Capturing the Decisive Moment

For all-round photographic reliability, autofocus speed, accuracy, and burst capabilities mark key performance indices.

The Fujifilm T400 offers:

• Contrast-detection AF with center-weighted and face detection modes.

• A single autofocus point (center), with no multi-area or selective AF.

• Continuous shooting at a glacial 1 fps, insufficient for movement-intensive photography.

In contrast, the Nikon S800c presents:

• Contrast-detection AF with 9 autofocus points, center-weighted metering, face detection, and tracking capabilities.

• Single-shot AF mode complemented by continuous autofocus and face tracking (though continuous AF is not available).

• Continuous shooting up to 8 fps, more than adequate to capture fleeting moments in street or casual action photography.

Both cameras rely solely on contrast detection (no phase detection) leading to limitations in rapid subject acquisition, especially under challenging light or fast motion. However, Nikon’s multiple focus points and face tracking are tangible advantages, particularly for portrait and street disciplines.

Though neither permits manual focus or exposure modes (like aperture or shutter priority), Nikon’s exposure bracketing and white balance bracketing offer greater flexibility for critical situations.

Lens Characteristics and Zoom Range: Versatility for Varied Subjects

Equipped with fixed zoom lenses, both devices cover broad focal lengths catering to diverse scenes.

The two lenses offer similar zoom extents, with the Nikon slightly wider at the short end (25mm vs 28mm), lending more flexibility for contextual landscapes or group portraits. The maximum aperture differences are negligible.

The Fujifilm’s closer macro focusing distance (5 cm) allows for more intimate close-ups with higher magnification, advantageous for macro enthusiasts, whereas Nikon’s 10 cm minimum focus distance is modest but standard for this category.

Regarding image stabilization, Fuji employs sensor-shift stabilization, typically effective at lessening handheld blur at slower shutter speeds. Nikon opts for optical stabilization within the lens assembly, often superior for video and zoomed-in shots.

Lastly, neither model supports interchangeable lenses, restricting creative adaptability but simplifying system choice for casual shooters.

Battery Life and Storage: Practical Considerations for Extended Use

Battery endurance directly impacts the practicality of travel or event photography. The Fuji T400, powered by the NP-45A battery pack, modestly manages around 180 shots per charge. Nikon’s S800c, using an EN-EL12 pack, fares slightly worse with approximately 140 shots.

In real-world conditions, these shot counts will decrease with LCD usage and video recording, underscoring the need for spare batteries on longer outings.

Both cameras support SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards, with one slot provided. Notably, the Nikon incorporates faster USB 3.0 for image transfer and an HDMI port for external video output - features absent on the Fuji, which relies on slower USB 2.0 and lacks external display connectivity.

Video Capabilities: Moving Beyond Stills

Video recording is an increasingly important facet of compact cameras. Comparing these models:

• Fujifilm T400 records 720p HD video at 30 fps (H.264 and Motion JPEG), with no built-in microphone or headphone ports and no advanced video stabilization modes.

• Nikon S800c supports full 1080p HD video at 30 fps, plus 720p and VGA modes, using MPEG-4 and H.264 formats. Optical stabilization aids smoother footage. HDMI output enables live viewing on external monitors, enhancing usability for content creators.

Neither camera offers advanced features such as 4K, microphone input, or time-lapse recording. However, Nikon’s frame rate and resolution advantage paired with video-friendly hardware marks it better suited for casual videography.

Connectivity and Smart Features: Modern Conveniences

The Nikon S800c incorporates built-in wireless connectivity and GPS. The wireless enables photo sharing and Android app integration, beneficial for casual social media users, although limited by the camera’s processing capabilities in practice.

GPS tagging supports geographic cataloging of shots - a feature almost nonexistent in this category at release time.

Conversely, the Fuji T400 lacks any wireless or GPS capabilities, reflecting its emphasis on simplicity and cost-saving.

Real-World Performance Across Photography Genres

Drawing from hands-on evaluations and a synthesis of specs, let's match each camera to major photographic disciplines:

Portrait Photography

When capturing portraits, color accuracy, skin tone rendering, and autofocus precision matter most.

• Nikon’s BSI-CMOS sensor and face detection provide more faithful skin colors and frequent focus reliability on eyes or faces, even in subdued light.

• Fujifilm’s CCD sensor imparts softer color rendition but requires care at elevated ISOs to maintain clarity.

Neither offers bokeh control through aperture changes, owing to fixed zoom lenses with limited maximum apertures.

Landscape Photography

Landscape photography benefits from wide focal length, dynamic range, and durability.

• Both cameras offer wide-to-tele zooms; Nikon’s 25mm wide-angle option provides a slightly broader field.

• Nikon’s CMOS sensor affords better dynamic range and shadow detail capture.

• Neither model offers weather sealing or ruggedized construction, limiting use in adverse conditions.

Wildlife and Sports Photography

Both genres require fast autofocus, burst shooting, and telephoto reach.

• Nikon’s continuous shooting at 8 fps and improved AF coverage aid in capturing fast action or wildlife moments.

• Fujifilm’s sluggish 1 fps continuous mode is unsuitable for tracking moving subjects.

• Both fixed-lens zoom focal lengths moderately cover telephoto needs, but image quality at maximum zoom and high ISO performance may be limited.

Street Photography

Discretion, portability, and responsive AF are key here.

• Fujifilm’s smaller size and lighter weight excel for unobtrusive street shooting.

• Nikon’s touchscreen and multiple AF points make quick composition adjustments easier.

• Both cameras’ lack of viewfinder reduces framing precision but is typical for the class.

Macro Photography

The Fuji T400’s 5 cm minimum focus distance is advantageous for capturing detailed close-ups of flowers, insects, and small objects, surpassing the Nikon in this respect.

Night and Astro Photography

Low-light capability hinges on sensor sensitivity and noise levels.

• Nikon’s CMOS sensor leads here, maintaining usable ISOs up to 3200, whereas Fujifilm is best kept below ISO 800.

• Neither camera has long exposure controls for astrophotography; minimum shutter speeds differ (Fuji 1/8s to 1/2000s; Nikon 1/4s to 1/4000s).

Video and Travel Photography

Nikon’s superior video specs and HDMI support make it better for casual videographers and travelers seeking versatility in multimedia.

Its GPS tagging and wireless functionality also enhance travel documentation.

Fuji’s longer battery life and lighter weight may be an advantage for those prioritizing still snaps and mobility.

Professional Workflows

Neither camera provides RAW file output or advanced manual controls, limiting integration into professional environments requiring color grading or critical exposure manipulation. Hence, both are best suited for enthusiasts or casual shoots rather than demanding professional assignments.

Summarizing Strengths and Weaknesses

Visualizing Performance and Suitability

To provide a concise overview, the following images display gallery samples (note: actual shooting conditions varied), overall scores, and genre-specific performance breakdowns based on testing and technical benchmarking:

Fujifilm T400 front Fujifilm T400 screen back Nikon S800c front Nikon S800c screen back

These visuals reinforce Nikon’s lead in versatility and photo quality, especially for video and dynamic shooting, while Fujifilm remains an excellent compact option for casual and macro shooters on a budget.

Final Recommendations: Which Camera Should You Choose?

Selecting between the Fujifilm FinePix T400 and Nikon Coolpix S800c ultimately depends on your photographic priorities, budget, and intended workflows.

• Choose the Fujifilm T400 if you:

  • Prioritize a lightweight, pocketable camera for casual, day-to-day photography.
  • Value longer battery life for extended field use.
  • Appreciate simple operation without touchscreen complexity.
  • Enjoy macro photography, benefiting from close focusing.
  • Are budget-conscious and do not require advanced video or connectivity.

• Opt for the Nikon S800c if you:

  • Seek superior image quality in varied lighting via a BSI CMOS sensor.
  • Desire full HD video with optical stabilization and HDMI output.
  • Need faster autofocus, burst shooting for capturing action.
  • Appreciate a larger, high-resolution touchscreen for precise control.
  • Want built-in GPS and Wi-Fi for travel convenience.
  • Are comfortable with a slightly heavier and larger form factor and higher price.

Epilogue: Contextualizing These Cameras in Modern Photography

Though both models were introduced over a decade ago, understanding their feature sets and performance remains relevant in assessing entry-level zoom compacts, especially as nostalgia and affordability bring these cameras back to enthusiasts’ attention.

The contrast between FujiFilm’s traditional CCD-based design and streamlined interface versus Nikon’s early integration of smart features and advanced CMOS technology marks a pivotal evolutionary moment in small sensor cameras, presaging trends common in current hybrid devices.

For beginners and casual shooters today, neither camera can rival modern smartphones or mirrorless systems in technical capabilities or image fidelity. Yet, they both provide valuable stepping stones into the photographic craft, illustrating key trade-offs and design choices intrinsic to compact camera engineering.

In conclusion, for those demanding more from a small sensor compact, the Nikon Coolpix S800c is the superior choice for versatility and image quality, whereas the Fujifilm FinePix T400 remains a lightweight, simple, and affordable option for those prioritizing ease and macro detail over advanced features. This detailed comparison empowers informed purchasing decisions aligned with distinct user needs in the compact zoom camera segment.