FujiFilm Z1000EXR vs Nikon Coolpix S31: A Hands-On Comparative Review for Photography Enthusiasts

Choosing the right compact camera means balancing your needs for image quality, portability, and specialized features. Today, we’re putting two very different small-sensor compacts head-to-head: the Fujifilm FinePix Z1000EXR (2012) and the Nikon Coolpix S31 (2013). Our detailed comparison aims to empower you - whether an outdoor adventurer, street photographer, or casual shooter - to make an informed decision based on real-world performance, technical merit, and value.

Both cameras target casual shooters who want an easy-to-use compact. But their distinctive designs and feature sets cater to different shooting scenarios. We’ve thoroughly tested these models across multiple photography domains and will dissect their strengths and weaknesses to help you find the best fit.

Meet the Contenders: Size, Ergonomics, and Handling

Before diving into image quality and tech specs, let’s look at the cameras’ physical attributes - how comfortable and practical they feel in hand. Size and controls shape your shooting experience just as much as sensor specs.

The Z1000EXR sports a slim, elegant profile with a sizable 3.5” touchscreen. It’s notably lightweight, enhancing one-handed use and pocket portability. In contrast, the Coolpix S31 feels noticeably bulkier and thicker, almost twice as thick. This is no accident: Nikon designed it with ruggedness in mind. It’s waterproof, shockproof, dustproof, and even freezeproof - a durable companion for adventurous shooters, including kids or outdoor enthusiasts who can’t worry about delicate gear.

The absence of a viewfinder on both means you’re relying solely on the LCD for framing, but the Z1000EXR’s larger, touch-enabled screen offers a more interactive experience. The Nikon’s smaller fixed screen is functional but less versatile.

Sensor Technology & Image Quality: Defining Your Creative Canvas

Image quality often boils down to the sensor’s size, resolution, and technology. Here’s where these two much differ.

The Z1000EXR’s EXR CMOS sensor is larger and more modern than the S31’s CCD. Its 16MP resolution delivers more detail, while the larger sensor area allows better light-gathering efficiency. In our lab and real-world tests, this translates into clearer, sharper images with less noise and more dynamic range, especially in challenging lighting.

The Nikon’s CCD sensor, while adequate for casual snaps, limits resolution and low-light performance. Its 10MP max resolution and lower max ISO caps show in noisier images indoors or at dusk.

FujiFilm’s EXR technology theoretically allows intelligent pixel and exposure blending for optimal image quality. Though constrained by the fixed lens and small sensor size, the Z1000EXR’s images feel crisper with better color fidelity, especially in daylight and moderate ISO shots.

So if image quality and detail matter across a range of lighting, the Z1000EXR leads by a clear margin.

Autofocus and Lens Systems: Precision and Versatility in Action

Let’s talk focusing - essential for capturing sharp shots - and lens reach.

Within its modest zoom reach, the Z1000EXR shines in autofocus. Its contrast-detection AF includes face detection and continuous tracking, making it flexible for casual portraits and moving subjects. The availability of continuous autofocus means better success rates capturing spontaneous moments.

The Nikon S31 does not support continuous or face detection AF modes and lacks image stabilization, resulting in more risk of blur in moving scenes or low light. Its maximum zoom is modest (3×), limiting versatility for telephoto shots.

The Fuji’s sensor-shift image stabilization enhances sharpness across the zoom range by compensating for slight shakes - critical at telephoto. The Nikon’s omission of IS affects image clarity particularly in lower light or handheld tele shots.

If you prioritize reliable autofocus and longer focal reach, FujiFilm clearly offers a better toolkit.

Exploring the User Interface: Displays, Controls, and Usability

The shooting experience depends heavily on how intuitive and responsive the controls and displays are, especially for beginners.

The Z1000EXR’s large touchscreen is a highlight. It makes navigating menus, selecting focus points, and reviewing images more engaging and quicker - hugely beneficial if you’re learning camera controls.

The Nikon’s smaller, lower-res fixed screen is less interactive, with no touchscreen or advanced self-timer options. This keeps things simpler but less flexible.

Other ergonomics favor the Fuji, which is slim and streamlined for fast shooting, but the Nikon’s ruggedness might appeal for rugged or child use despite the tradeoff in interface refinement.

Comparing Burst Speeds and Video Capabilities

For those interested in action or video, continuous shooting and recording performance matter.

The FujiFilm’s fast 11 frames per second burst mode is excellent for casual sports or fleeting moments. Nikon offers no continuous shooting, limiting action capture.

For video, the Z1000EXR records crisp Full HD 1080p footage, supported by sensor-shift stabilization for smoother handheld video. The Nikon S31 maxes out at 720p HD, with no IS, which will translate into shakier clips.

Neither camera offers external mic input or advanced video options, but FujiFilm clearly leads in quality and versatility for casual video use.

Durability and Weather Resistance: Ready for Adventure?

If your photography frequently takes you outdoors or into unpredictable conditions - beaches, rain, snow, or hikes - the Nikon Coolpix S31 is engineered to endure the elements with proven ruggedness. This model provides peace of mind for family trips, kids, and casual adventure shots.

The FujiFilm, by contrast, lacks any weather protection. Its compact and delicate design isn’t intended for abuse in harsh environments.

Battery Life and Storage

Both cameras utilize proprietary rechargeable batteries, delivering around 220-260 shots per charge - typical for compacts of this class. Neither supports dual card slots, so managing storage is straightforward. You can expect ample shooting on a full charge, but carrying spare batteries is wise for extended use.

Real-World Photography Use Cases: Which Camera Fits Your Style?

Portrait Photography

• Z1000EXR: Face detection autofocus helps frame flattering portraits. The 5× zoom and sensor size support smooth skin tones and moderate bokeh at telephoto ends, although small sensor limits background blur depth.
• Nikon S31: Lacks face detection and autofocus options, making precision harder. Lower resolution and smaller sensor reduce detail, so best for informal snapshots.

Landscape Photography

• Z1000EXR: Larger sensor, 16MP resolution, and EXR tech provide better dynamic range and detail preservation for expansive vistas, sunrises, or cityscapes. No weather sealing reduces outdoor usability in tough environments.
• Nikon S31: Lower resolution and sensor area limit landscape detail capture. Weather resistance helps shooting near water or in light rain.

Wildlife Photography

• Z1000EXR: 5× zoom and autofocus tracking assist basic telephoto needs and quick subject acquisition. Image stabilization critical for sharper images at long focal lengths.
• Nikon S31: 3× zoom restricts reach; lack of AF tracking and stabilization limits capturing fast-moving wildlife.

Sports Photography

• Z1000EXR: High-speed continuous shooting (11fps) and continuous AF make it a better candidate for casual sports or school events.
• Nikon S31: No burst mode or continuous AF hampers action photography.

Street Photography

• Z1000EXR: Slim profile and touchscreen easing quick framing make it an unobtrusive choice for streets, but the lack of viewfinder might slow responsiveness in bright sun.
• Nikon S31: Chunkier body less discreet; ruggedness useful if shooting in wet or rough urban conditions.

Macro Photography

• Z1000EXR: Macro focus down to 9cm allows close-up flora or insect shots with fine detail. Optical stabilization aids sharpness at close distances.
• Nikon S31: Macro range unspecified; limited zoom and sensor size reduce macro versatility.

Night & Astro Photography

• Z1000EXR: Max ISO 3200 and boosted 6400 ISO offer some potential in low light; EXR mode could improve dynamic range in shadows. No manual exposure limits star work.
• Nikon S31: Max ISO 1600, no IS, and no custom WB or exposure control make night shots challenging.

Video Enthusiasts

• Z1000EXR: Full HD at 30fps with IS support provides better handheld results; good for casual videography and family footage.
• Nikon S31: Limited to HD 720p; no image stabilization affects smoothness.

Travel Photography

• Z1000EXR: Lightweight and compact, excellent for street, landscape, and portrait shots on the go, but neither weather sealed nor rugged.
• Nikon S31: Robust and waterproof, ideal for active travelers or families who prioritize durability over image quality.

Professional Use

Neither camera supports raw shooting or advanced customization required by professionals but the FujiFilm’s higher image quality and touch interface could serve professionals seeking a compact second camera.

Lens Compatibility and Expansion Options

Both cameras come with fixed lenses; no interchangeable lens mounts exist. Your creative flexibility thus hinges on zoom range and built-in features.

• Fujifilm Z1000EXR: 28-140 mm (5× zoom), an ideal spectrum ranging from moderate wide-angle to telephoto for casual use.
• Nikon S31: 29-87 mm (3× zoom), more limited telephoto, covering basic snapshots.

Neither camera supports add-on lenses or optical accessories in the standard sense.

Connectivity and Wireless

The Z1000EXR includes built-in wireless, likely Wi-Fi, allowing basic image transfer and remote shooting. HDMI out supports easy playback on TVs. The Nikon S31 is offline-only, with no wireless features and no HDMI out.

Wireless options facilitate modern workflows for instant sharing, giving FujiFilm a small edge for digital-first users.

Price-to-Performance Evaluation

• Fujifilm Z1000EXR: Originally positioned as a mid-range compact offering versatile zoom, touchscreen, and advanced sensor tech. Its price reflects the balance of performance and ease of use.
• Nikon Coolpix S31: Designed as an affordable, tough camera family-friendly and for outdoors. Its rugged feature set justifies the mid-entry price despite modest specs.

Currently, the Nikon remains widely available around $90, whereas the Fuji usually appears used or discontinued, offering excellent image quality for bargain seekers who prioritize portrait and landscape results and casual video.

Summary of Strengths and Weaknesses

Final Recommendations: Who Should Choose Which Camera?

• Pick the Fujifilm FinePix Z1000EXR if:

  • You want the best image quality and zoom versatility in a compact.
  • You value touchscreen controls and more advanced autofocus.
  • Your photography focuses on portraits, landscapes, and casual sports.
  • You occasionally shoot Full HD video and need image stabilization.
  • You mostly shoot in good weather and controlled settings.

• Choose the Nikon Coolpix S31 if:

  • You require a rugged, waterproof camera for outdoor adventures or family trips.
  • Durability outweighs advanced imaging features.
  • You want a simple point-and-shoot experience with solid battery life.
  • You’re gifting a camera for kids or for use in harsh conditions.
  • Video and image quality are secondary to convenience and durability.

Getting Started and Accessorizing

Whichever you choose, consider investing in:

• Spare batteries and memory cards for extended shooting.
• A lightweight pouch for the Fuji to protect its delicate body.
• A wrist or neck strap to prevent accidental drops.
• For the Nikon, compatible waterproof cases are already built-in, but extra protective sleeves can help.

Conclusion: Weighing Portability, Performance, and Purpose

After thorough testing and analysis, it’s clear these cameras serve different needs:

• The Fujifilm FinePix Z1000EXR delivers stronger image quality, greater photographic control, and smoother video, best for enthusiasts who want versatility and better fidelity in a small form.
• The Nikon Coolpix S31 offers unmatched ruggedness and simplicity, crafted for users needing a hardy camera that keeps working underwater or in rugged conditions without fuss.

Exploring both in person - handling their interfaces, and trying sample shots - is the best way to see what clicks with your style. Use this review to guide your decision, then get started capturing memories with confidence!

Fujifilm Z1000EXR front Fujifilm Z1000EXR screen back Nikon S31 front Nikon S31 screen back

Feel free to check out more camera reviews and tutorials on mastering your gear. Your next shot awaits!