Fujifilm T400 vs. Sony HX7V: A Deep Dive Into Small Sensor Compacts for Everyday Photography

When compact cameras entered the scene, they promised portability without sacrificing too much image quality, and while smartphone cameras have made huge strides, some photography enthusiasts still prefer dedicated compacts for their versatility and specialized controls. Today, I’m comparing two small sensor compacts that have attracted attention for their different strengths: the Fujifilm FinePix T400 and the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX7V. Both announced within a year of each other (early 2012 for the T400 and mid-2011 for the HX7V), these camera models offer a closer look at where small sensor compacts can fit in your gear lineup - especially if you want a travel-friendly, all-in-one setup with decent zoom ranges.

Having personally tested hundreds of compacts over the years, from entry-level point-and-shoots to enthusiast-focused models, I’ll walk you through an honest, nuanced, and practical comparison here. You’ll get insights on their physical design, image quality, performance aspects such as autofocus and burst speed, and importantly, how they actually fare across different photography genres: from portraits to landscapes to wildlife and beyond.

Let’s dive in, starting where it all begins: the body and handling.

First Impressions Matter: Size, Ergonomics, and Control Layout

Physically, both the Fujifilm T400 and Sony HX7V are lightweight and pocketable, but their design philosophies differ subtly, affecting handling and portability.

Looking at dimensions, the Fuji measures approximately 104 x 59 x 29 mm, tipping the scales at only 159 grams. On the other hand, the Sony HX7V is a bit bulkier at 102 x 58 x 29 mm but weighs 208 grams, which you’ll notice holding them side by side.

What surprised me? The Fuji’s lighter weight feels more travel-friendly, especially for day-long outings where stowing weight is paramount. However, the Sony’s slight heft gives it a more substantial, confident grip, which can improve stability during zoomed-in shots especially handheld in low light.

Control layout also reveals manufacturer priorities - take a look:

The Sony HX7V offers a bit more in terms of physical controls: a zoom rocker surrounding the shutter button, an intuitive mode dial, and dedicated exposure compensation (though in practice, the camera lacks manual modes). The Fujifilm T400’s top controls are simpler but more minimalist, favoring straightforward point-and-shoot use.

Neither has an electronic viewfinder (EVF), both relying on their rear LCDs for composition - a common trait in this class.

Speaking of which…

Viewing Experience: Screens and User Interface

The rear screen is your window to composition and playback, so its quality can heavily influence usability.

Fujifilm T400’s 2.7-inch TFT color LCD with 230K dots feels dated compared to modern standards. The Sony HX7V’s 3-inch XtraFine LCD with 921K dots offers far better clarity and color rendition. During bright daylight shooting, the Sony’s screen noticeably performs better, helping you assess focus and exposure more accurately in the field.

On the interface front, both cameras lack touchscreen functionality and rely on physical buttons. The Sony’s menu system is more polished in terms of responsiveness and depth - don’t expect manual exposure controls on either, but the Sony offers more customization within its auto modes.

For casual travelers wanting crisp previews and quick adjustments, Sony has the edge here. If you’re used to basic kompacts, the Fujifilm’s screen won’t feel alien but is definitely undersized compared to the HX7V.

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

Now, the heart of any camera is its sensor - size, type, and processing matter a great deal in determining the final output.

Both the Fujifilm T400 and Sony HX7V sport 1/2.3-inch sensors measuring 6.17 x 4.55 mm, with diagonal sensor areas of around 28.07 mm². This sensor size is typical for compacts with superzoom capabilities, offering a balance between cost and image quality.

The Fujifilm uses a CCD sensor, which was still common in earlier compacts but now considered legacy technology. CCD sensors traditionally yield pleasant, distinct color rendering and good sharpness, but they lag behind CMOS types in noise performance and speed.

The Sony HX7V features a more modern BSI-CMOS sensor paired with Sony’s BIONZ processor, which enhances noise reduction, high ISO performance, and speed. This sensor enables the HX7V to push native ISO up to 3200 vs. Fuji’s 1600.

Regarding resolution, both pack 16 megapixels at around 4608 x 3440 pixels. The Sony’s aspect ratio options are 4:3 and 16:9 (widescreen), while Fuji offers 4:3, 3:2, and 16:9. Minor, but worth knowing for cropping preferences.

Image quality is a nuanced mix of sensor and lens prowess in these cameras:

• Color Depth: The CCD sensor of the Fuji typically produces nicely saturated, warm tones - great for vibrant outdoor scenes. However, it may show slight color noise in shadows.

• Dynamic Range: Neither camera offers extended dynamic range features like HDR modes or dual gain sensors. In my tests, Sony’s BSI-CMOS delivers a moderately better SDNR (signal-to-noise ratio), preserving more detail in highlights and shadows.

• Noise Performance: At base ISOs, both are sharp and clean. Sony’s HX7V handles high ISO (1600-3200) with less chroma noise compared to the T400, which struggles past 800 ISO.

• Lens Sharpness: Fuji’s lens is a 28–280 mm equivalent with f/3.4 to f/5.6 aperture range. The Sony offers 25–250 mm focal length at f/3.5 to f/5.5. These similar zoom ranges make both versatile for everyday shooting - from wide environmental shots to moderate telephoto.

In practice, expect the Sony to edge out the Fuji on overall image quality, especially in lower light, thanks to sensor and processing advantages.

Autofocus and Burst Performance: Speed Counts

Both cameras stick to contrast-detection autofocus systems, common for compacts of their era, but they differ markedly in speed and tracking ability.

The Fujifilm T400 uses a basic contrast detection and face detection AF. Unfortunately, it offers only a single continuous shooting mode at a slow 1 fps burst. This low frame rate severely limits its use for action and wildlife photography.

The Sony HX7V, meanwhile, has a nine-point AF system employing contrast detection plus multi-area AF and center-weighted focusing. Although it lacks face detection, its AF locking is perceptibly faster and more reliable in well-lit environments.

Most notably, Sony supports continuous burst shooting at 10 fps (albeit with limited buffer) - making it much better suited for capturing fleeting moments in sports or wildlife.

If you’re prioritizing speed, tracking, and burst capability - Sony wins hands down here.

Flash Systems and Stabilization: Keep Shots Sharp

Both models feature built-in flashes with similar coverage (around 4.5-4.8 meters), though flash modes vary slightly.

The Fujifilm T400 supports Auto, On, Off, Red-eye reduction, and Slow Sync modes, which lets you unleash longer flashes for night portraits with some background illumination.

Sony provides Auto, On, Off, and Slow Sync flash modes. It lacks explicit red-eye reduction modes but counters red-eye through software better than the Fuji does.

Regarding image stabilization, the Fujifilm uses sensor-shift stabilization while the Sony HX7V employs optical image stabilization. Optical IS is generally more effective in reducing handshake blur, especially at telephoto focal lengths.

During hand-held shooting at longer zooms, the HX7V's stabilization noticeably improves keeper rates.

Video Capabilities: Moving Pictures Matter

For those who dabble in video, both cameras deliver interesting yet limited options.

Fujifilm T400 shoots up to 1280x720 pixels at 30fps, encoded in H.264 or Motion JPEG. Its videos feel basic, with no stereo sound or mic inputs.

Sony HX7V records Full HD 1920x1080 at 60fps (progressive output) using MPEG-4 or AVCHD codecs, with superior compression efficiency. It also provides 1440x1080 at 30fps and VGA at 30fps. No external microphone input either, but it does take in stereo sound.

The HX7V’s smoother frame rates and higher video resolution make it more enjoyable for casual video recording, especially for travel or family events.

Durability and Build Quality: Everyday Reliability

Neither camera boasts environmental sealing - no dustproof, waterproof, or shockproof ratings. They’re lightweight compacts meant for everyday use, not rugged adventures.

Build quality-wise, both feel reasonably solid in hands, but the Sony’s slightly heavier, metal-reinforced chassis inspires more confidence in resistant use.

If you anticipate harsh shooting conditions, neither model is ideal; however, gentle care will keep both working fine.

Battery Life and Storage: How Long and How Much?

The Fuji T400 uses a proprietary NP-45A battery, estimated for about 180 shots per charge - quite limited. Charging speed is decent but you'll probably want spares if you're on long outings.

Sony HX7V uses the NP-BG1 battery, typically rated around 340 shots per charge (per CIPA standards), giving it a clear advantage for extended shooting days.

Both accept standard SD/SDHC/SDXC cards. Sony also supports Memory Stick Duo formats for those invested in their ecosystem. One card slot each, limiting options for backups during travel.

Connectivity and Additional Features

Connectivity options are modest but telling:

• Fujifilm T400 lacks wireless connectivity, HDMI out, or GPS.

• Sony HX7V includes built-in GPS, enabling geotagging - a handy feature for travel photographers. It also supports Eye-Fi SD cards for wireless image transfer and includes HDMI output for easy playback on TVs.

These extra features make the Sony a clear pick for users who want more than basic point-and-shoot functionality.

Real-World Photography Use Cases: Strengths and Constraints

Let’s look at how these cameras stack up across common photographic genres, focusing on what matters most to you.

Portrait Photography

When shooting portraits, skin tone rendition and autofocus sharpness on eyes are key.

• Fujifilm T400: Produces flattering skin tones due to CCD’s characteristic color. Face detection helps focus on subjects, but autofocus can hunt in lower light. Limited lens speed (max f/3.4) and lack of bokeh control mean backgrounds rarely blur pleasingly.

• Sony HX7V: While lacking face detection, the faster AF and multi-area focus sometimes nail the eyes better. Thanks to slightly faster max aperture (f/3.5, close enough), background easing is similar but with noisier backgrounds at higher ISO in dim rooms.

For casual portraits, Fuji’s colors may be more pleasing but Sony’s sharper focus is more reliable.

Landscape Photography

Landscapes benefit from wide primes, dynamic range, and high resolution.

Both cameras have similar sensor sizes - but the Sony’s BSI-CMOS pulls ahead with better dynamic range and lower noise at base ISO 125 versus Fuji’s 100 ISO CCD.

Fuji offers 3:2 aspect ratios, favored by landscapes for compositional flexibility, while Sony sticks to 4:3 and 16:9.

Weather sealing is absent for both. Neither lens is especially sharp wide-open, so stopping down to around f/5.6 yields best results.

Verdict: Sony’s improved sensor and higher-res screen aid framing and image quality for landscape shooters.

Wildlife and Sports Photography

Quick autofocus and fast burst capture are paramount.

• Fujifilm T400: Struggles with low shutter speeds and slow 1fps burst shooting. Autofocus lags, even with face detection. Zoom range (28-280mm) is longer than Sony’s but longer focal lengths require fast AF and stabilization, which Fuji poorly supports.

• Sony HX7V: Faster AF with 9 focus points and 10 fps burst make it far superior for capturing action and wildlife. The shorter telephoto range (25-250mm) might disappoint serious tele shooters but is adequate for casual wildlife snaps.

No camera in this comparison replaces an APS-C DSLR or mirrorless, but Sony’s responsiveness wins for casual action.

Street Photography

Here, discreetness, size, and quick responsiveness matter.

Fujifilm T400’s lighter body and smaller screen make it less conspicuous, yet AF speed is a bottleneck. The Sony’s improved AF and customizable controls favor decisive shooting, but its marginally larger size is noticeable.

Neither has an EVF - switching to rear LCD in bright light can be tricky.

If you prefer travel light and simple, Fuji fits better, but for those prioritizing quick capture, Sony's performance helps.

Macro Photography

Close focusing is a specialty and both cameras offer some facility:

• Fujifilm T400 allows macro focusing down to 5 cm - decent for small subjects.

• Sony HX7V does not specify close-focusing distance but generally performs well with 3-10 cm minimum focusing distances at wide angles.

Neither has focus stacking or advanced macro features, but both can deliver handheld macro with care.

Night and Astro Photography

Low light pushes sensors and IS to their limits.

Sony’s better sensor and Optical IS allow handheld shooting at slower shutter speeds with less noise up to ISO 800-1600.

Fujifilm’s CCD sensor and Sensor-Shift IS do help but noisy images beyond ISO 400 limit usefulness.

Neither camera offers manual controls or RAW shooting, which restricts astro or creative long exposure photography.

Travel Photography: The All-Rounder Perspective

Compact size, weight, battery life, versatile zoom, and geotagging define a good travel companion.

• Fujifilm T400: Lightest and thinnest, great for packing light. Modest battery holds back long shooting days. No GPS means relying on smartphone for location tagging. Adequate zoom range.

• Sony HX7V: Slightly bigger and heavier, but excellent battery life, GPS tagging, and richer video support make it a more compelling all-round travel tool.

If versatility meets durability matters most, the HX7V is preferred.

Professional Work and Workflow Integration

Neither camera supports RAW capture - a significant limitation for professionals seeking image flexibility.

Workflow integration is basic: USB 2.0 for transferring photos, no tethering or advanced wireless syncing.

File formats are JPEG only; batch editing or post-processing leans heavily on software interpolation.

For work demanding full control, neither camera fits the bill, but as lightweight backups or casual share cameras, they serve well.

Sample images from both cameras illustrate their color science differences and handling of diverse lighting. Notice Fuji’s warmer tones and Sony’s crisper details but comparatively cooler color temperature.

Summary of Overall Performance and Ratings

Here’s a comparative snapshot upon exhaustive testing:

In almost every performance category - autofocus, low light, video, battery life - the Sony HX7V ranks higher. Fujifilm’s strengths lie mainly in its lightweight portability and pleasing color interpretation.

Strengths and Weaknesses Across Genres

Breaking down genre-specific scoring:

• Portraits: Fuji excels in color but slower AF limits sharpness. Sony better for sharp eye detection.
• Landscapes: Sony’s sensor and screen aid precision; Fuji lags in dynamic range.
• Wildlife & Sports: Sony’s AF and burst speed trump Fuji’s sluggish performance.
• Street: Fuji’s small size appeals, but Sony’s responsiveness counters that.
• Macro: Comparable, though Fuji’s close focus distance is slightly better.
• Night/Astro: Sony’s low light capability is better but both limited by lack of manual controls.
• Video: Sony’s Full HD at 60fps outclasses Fuji’s 720p.
• Travel: Sony’s features make it a better all-rounder despite weight.
• Professional: Both lack RAW and manual exposure; not ideal for pro work.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations: Which One’s Right For You?

If you want simplicity, ultra-lightweight feel, and lovely in-camera JPEGs for casual everyday use, the Fujifilm FinePix T400 is a decent choice - especially if your budget is tight, with pricing hovering near $150.

However, if you crave better image quality, faster autofocus, more versatile video, GPS tagging, and superior battery life, the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX7V convincingly outperforms the Fuji - though at a significantly higher price (~$500).

Who should buy the Fuji T400?

• Absolute beginners or casual shooters wanting ultra-light compacts with solid zoom.
• Budget-conscious buyers prioritizing simple operation over advanced features.
• Users who value pleasing colors and ease of handling above speed.

Who should consider the Sony HX7V?

• Enthusiasts desiring a versatile compact with strong autofocus and burst rates.
• Travelers looking for GPS and richer multimedia options.
• Users who want better low light and video performance in a small package.

Both cameras remind us how small sensor compacts can serve differing niches. Neither replaces a mirrorless powerhouse, but each caters well to specific needs. Whichever you choose, aligning features with your shooting style is key.

A Closing Note

In writing this, I’ve drawn on my own testing methods - shooting in varied conditions, comparing side by side on the same scenes, evaluating metrics like shutter lag, focusing time, and image noise numerically and subjectively. While specs tell part of the story, real-world usage frequently reveals strengths and compromises manufacturers don't mention.

If you’re exploring entry-level compacts, remember: the joy of capturing moments often outweighs pixel counts. Yet, knowing what you’re getting helps spend wisely and shoot happily.

Happy photographing!

If you want to see the cameras in action or sample images side by side, check out my video review linked in the text above - there, I walk through detailed controls and image results in real scenarios.