Fujifilm XP30 vs Olympus SP-610UZ: A Deep Dive into Compact Superzoom Performance

Choosing the right compact camera can be a challenge, especially when models overlap in features but target slightly different user needs. Today, we put side-by-side two entry-level superzoom compacts from 2011’s lineup: the Fujifilm FinePix XP30 and the Olympus SP-610UZ. While each packs unique strengths, they aim to empower photographers seeking portability, ease of use, and versatile zoom ranges.

Drawing on comprehensive hands-on testing and years of experience assessing compact cameras, this article guides you through essential technical aspects, real-world imaging performance, and suitability across various photography genres. Whether you’re starting a photography journey, upgrading your rugged travel camera, or seeking a secondary zoom companion, our in-depth comparison will help you find the right fit.

First Impressions: Design, Build, and Handling

The Fujifilm XP30 and Olympus SP-610UZ both qualify as compact superzooms but take very different approaches to design and build quality.

Size and Ergonomics

Right off the bat, the XP30 asserts its identity as a tough, waterproof compact. It measures 99 x 68 x 24 mm and weighs only 165g, making it remarkably pocket-friendly. Its slim, lightweight body is attractive if you prioritize portability and rugged use - ideal for beach, hiking, or poolside photography.

In contrast, the SP-610UZ is larger and bulkier, with dimensions of 107 x 73 x 73 mm and a weight of 405g - over twice as heavy. That cuboid shape reflects its focus on extensive zoom reach rather than tough outdoor usability. It sits more solidly in the hand, but it’s less convenient for quick grab-and-go shots or tight pockets.

Ergonomically, the XP30's compact size translates to minimal physical controls but intuitive button placement. The Olympus accommodates a larger hand grip but generally requires both hands for comfortable shooting during longer zoom engagement.

Control Layout and Interface

Both cameras feature a fixed TFT LCD without any electronic viewfinder. The Olympus SP-610UZ boasts a larger 3-inch screen versus Fujifilm’s 2.7-inch display. This difference facilitates easier framing and menu navigation, especially for users preferring a bigger live-view monitor.

Neither model supports touchscreens or customizable control rings. The Olympus offers 11 autofocus points compared to Fujifilm's simpler AF system, which could impact focus flexibility (more on this in the autofocus section).

While neither camera has sophisticated manual controls or exposure modes, basic shutter, zoom, and flash buttons are well placed for entry-level shooters. Both also lack dedicated top screens or illuminated buttons.

Imaging Core: Sensor and Optics Face-Off

Sensor Specifications and Image Quality Fundamentals

The image quality battle usually starts with the sensor, and these two share some common ground here:

Technically, they use the same class of CCD sensors with identical resolution ranging up to 14 megapixels, finished with anti-aliasing filters. While these sensors are competent for daylight and moderate ISO shooting, they inherently lag behind newer CMOS sensors in noise control and dynamic range.

In practical evaluation, both produce decent images with good color fidelity and sharpness at base ISO 100–200, though expect noticeable noise creeping in above ISO 800. The Olympus tends to render slightly warmer tones, while Fujifilm delivers comparatively neutral skin tones, which can be appreciated in portrait photography.

Image files in JPEG are the only option, as neither supports RAW shooting - a limitation for professionals or advanced users requiring extensive post-processing.

Lens and Zoom Performance

The Fujifilm’s lens offers a convenient 5x zoom range covering moderate wide-angle to short telephoto, suitable for everyday subjects, landscapes, and portraits. Olympus steps up with a dramatic 22x optical zoom reaching 616mm equivalent - their standout attribute.

The Olympus’s extensive zoom greatly benefits wildlife, sports, and distant landscapes, but wider aperture loss at the tele end may reduce sharpness and low-light usability.

Both feature sensor-shift image stabilization reducing camera shake - key for handheld long zoom shots. The Olympus’s macro capability is also impressive with a close focusing distance of 1 cm, ideal for detailed nature or texture photography.

Autofocus and Shooting Speed: Practical Focus Performance

Autofocus is critical for fast action or spontaneous shots.

The XP30's autofocus system is basic but surprisingly versatile for a rugged compact. It offers single AF, continuous, and autofocus tracking - a rarity in this category - though autofocus speed can be slow, especially in low light.

The SP-610UZ has 11 contrast-based AF points, which facilitate selectable focusing areas but lacks continuous or tracking autofocus modes. AF speed is generally quick in good lighting but struggles in dim conditions.

Burst mode on both cameras tops out at 1 frame per second, too limited for intense sports or wildlife shooting but acceptable for casual snapshots.

Build Quality and Durability: Which Camera Can Go Where?

The Fujifilm XP30 was clearly designed with outdoor adventurers in mind.

• Waterproof rating: Yes (submersible)
• Dustproof: Yes
• Shockproof: Yes
• Freezeproof: Yes (operational in cold)

Conversely, the Olympus SP-610UZ has no weather sealing or rugged build features. Its robust but conventional plastic shell means it should be kept away from moisture, dust, and extreme conditions.

If you want a camera you can confidently take hiking, swimming, or to the beach, the XP30 is the clear leader on durability and environmental protection.

The Viewfinder and Display: Framing Your Shots

Both cameras forego any electronic or optical viewfinder, relying entirely on LCD panels for composition.

The Olympus’s 3-inch screen, though fixed and non-touch, offers a larger and more comfortable viewing area compared to the Fujifilm’s 2.7-inch display.

Both screens boast a resolution of 230k dots - modest by today’s standards but sufficient for framing and simple menu navigation.

If you frequently shoot in bright outdoor conditions, the Olympus screen benefits from slightly better visibility but neither features an anti-reflective coating or brightness sensor.

Video Capabilities Overview

Video quality is an important aspect for hybrid shooters.

Video options here are basic - both record HD 720p at 30fps in Motion JPEG format, which yields large file sizes and limited compression efficiency.

Only the Olympus offers HDMI output for external monitoring, a slight edge for casual video creators wishing to connect to larger displays.

Lack of microphone and headphone ports limits audio control, so these cameras suit informal video where simplicity trumps professional quality.

Battery Life and Storage: Practical Longevity

Powering these cameras differs significantly:

• Fujifilm XP30: Rechargeable NP-45A battery, rated approximately 200 shots per charge.
• Olympus SP-610UZ: Uses 4x AA batteries, with a longer rated battery life of 340 shots, depending on battery chemistry.

The XP30’s dedicated lithium-ion pack is compact but may require carrying spares or access to charging.

Olympus’s AA power is versatile - you can use alkalines, rechargeables (NiMH), or lithium AAs. This makes it easier to find replacements during travel, but adds bulk and weight.

Both support SD/SDHC memory cards; Olympus additionally supports SDXC, allowing for larger storage cards.

Connectivity and Additional Features

The Fujifilm XP30 has a built-in GPS sensor, great for embedding location data automatically - a handy addition for travel photography.

The Olympus supports wireless transfer only with Eye-Fi cards - a now-obsolete proprietary technology - limiting modern convenience.

Overall, Olympus’s HDMI output provides versatile connectivity for on-screen playback, while Fujifilm falls short in video-friendly interfaces.

Real-World Shooting Scenarios: Where Each Camera Excels

Let’s explore how both cameras perform across popular photography disciplines:

Portrait Photography

• Fujifilm XP30: Neutral and pleasing color reproduction yields natural skin tones. Its limited 5x zoom and fixed aperture range are adequate for casual portraits but don’t deliver substantial background blur. No face detection autofocus, but center-based AF is reliable in good light.

• Olympus SP-610UZ: Similar sensor capabilities but slightly warmer color tones. The longer zoom makes framing tight headshots challenging without cropping, and the lack of face detection autofocus requires more care.

Verdict: XP30 is friendlier for portraits thanks to color and size - ideal for quick family snaps.

Landscape Photography

• Fujifilm XP30: Moderate zoom range (28–140mm equivalent) and waterproof design suit outdoor, rugged landscapes. Its sealed body lets you shoot regardless of weather.

• Olympus SP-610UZ: Huge 22x zoom enables expansive framing options and distant detail capture. However, the absence of weather protection means extra caution outdoors.

Verdict: Olympus delivers flexibility for distant subjects; XP30 is better if you want to shoot comfortably in harsh environments.

Wildlife and Sports Photography

• Fujifilm XP30: Slower AF speed and max 1 fps shooting rate limit sports usability. But ruggedness supports outdoor activity.

• Olympus SP-610UZ: The 616 mm zoom is a major advantage for wildlife or sports from afar, though lacking advanced AF tracking and fast burst shooting.

Verdict: Olympus is better suited to distant wildlife shots, but neither is ideal for professional sports/action photography.

Street Photography

• Fujifilm XP30: Compact, lightweight, and inconspicuous - perfect for candid snaps. Waterproof construction means less worry about urban elements like rain.

• Olympus SP-610UZ: Bulkier and more conspicuous due to size and zoom lens, potentially limiting discretion.

Verdict: XP30 shines as a street camera with quick responsiveness and ruggedness.

Macro Photography

• Fujifilm XP30: 9 cm minimum focus distance, no focus stacking or bracketing.

• Olympus SP-610UZ: Impressive 1 cm close focus distance, letting you explore detailed macro shots.

Verdict: Olympus is more versatile macro-wise.

Night and Astro Photography

Low-light prowess and high ISO noise handling matter here.

• Both cameras use similar CCD sensors with modest ISO ceilings (max native ISO 3200).

• Despite sensor stabilization, neither excels in low light - with image noise and limited exposure control apparent.

Verdict: Both cameras have limited utility for night or astrophotography but can produce reasonable dusk shots.

Video Recording

• Both max at 720p/30fps Motion JPEG video.

• Olympus offers HDMI output for external viewing.

Verdict: Basic video shooters only; Olympus has slight connectivity advantage.

Travel Photography

• Fujifilm XP30: Lightweight, waterproof, built-in GPS, adequate zoom.

• Olympus SP-610UZ: Longer zoom and HDMI connectivity at the expense of bulk and lack of weather resilience.

Verdict: Fujifilm is better suited as the versatile travel companion camera.

Professional Work

Given no RAW support, limited manual controls, and low continuous shooting speeds, both cameras are unsuitable for professional applications.

Summarizing Scores and Performance Highlights

This comparative chart aggregates our detailed testing results, scoring cameras across image quality, ease of use, and features.

Key takeaways:

• Fujifilm XP30: Scores higher in durability, portability, and user-friendly features like GPS and waterproofing.

• Olympus SP-610UZ: Excels in zoom range and macro capabilities but falls short in ruggedness or modern-day connectivity.

Sample Images Showcase: Visual Evidence of Strengths and Limitations

Fujifilm XP30 screen back Olympus SP 610UZ front Olympus SP 610UZ screen back

Here are side-by-side sample images illustrating:

• Fujifilm’s vibrant colors and sharp daylight shots

• Olympus’s impressive telephoto reach capturing distant wildlife

Note the finer noise texture in Fujifilm shots at ISO 400 and Olympus’s closer macro focus precision.

Recommendations: Which Camera Should You Choose?

Ultimately, your choice depends on whether you prioritize ruggedness and portability or superzoom reach and macro flexibility.

Final Thoughts: Balancing Practicality and Performance

Our expert testing confirms both Fujifilm XP30 and Olympus SP-610UZ offer entry-level superzoom experiences but emphasize different photography priorities.

• The XP30’s rugged design and GPS make it a fantastic travel, outdoor, and casual street camera, ideal for anytime, anywhere shooting without fear of damage.

• The SP-610UZ’s staggering 22x zoom extends creative reach for wildlife and close-up enthusiasts, albeit sacrificing portability and weather resistance.

Neither camera supports RAW, lacks advanced autofocus or video features, and is already dated by today’s technological standards, but both remain excellent affordable choices for beginners or casual photographers focusing on specific niches.

If you’re considering these cameras, be sure to handle them firsthand in-store or borrow for trial shoots to feel which design and zoom meets your creative vision.

Also, explore accessory options like extra batteries, protective cases (especially for the Olympus), and SD cards optimized for video if you plan extended shooting sessions.

Photography is about exploration and expression - these compact superzooms open doors to creativity at reasonable prices. Dive in with the Fujifilm XP30 or Olympus SP-610UZ, and start crafting your photographic stories today.

Happy shooting!