Fujifilm FinePix Z110 vs Samsung TL240: A Detailed Comparison of Two Ultracompact Contenders

In the ever-evolving world of ultracompact digital cameras, two models that caught my eye from the early 2010s era are the Fujifilm FinePix Z110 and the Samsung TL240 (aka ST5000). Both were designed with portability and ease-of-use in mind, targeting casual photographers who crave a pocketable camera with decent zoom and image quality. But despite their similar compact ambitions, these two carry fundamentally different design philosophies and feature sets that are worth dissecting.

Having personally tested thousands of cameras over 15 years, I believe thorough side-by-side comparisons shed light on the real-world advantages and compromises of this often overlooked category. This article peels back the layers of both cameras’ specifications, performance, and user experience to give photographers - from beginners to enthusiasts - clear guidance on which model suits their needs better.

Let’s dive into how these two ultracompacts stack up in terms of ergonomics, image quality, autofocus, video, and more, sprinkled with practical testing insights.

Handling and Physical Design: Pocketability with Personality

The Fujifilm Z110 and Samsung TL240 are both designed for maximum portability, but they approach ergonomics differently. The Z110 keeps a slim, almost candy-bar style frame with smooth edges and a minimal button layout, while the TL240 tries to add a bit more grip area and screen size without compromising thinness.

Fujifilm Z110:
At 97 x 58 x 20 mm and weighing only 145 grams, the Z110 feels super light and easy to carry in any pocket. Its slender profile is aided by the fixed lens and lack of any bulky protrusions. One downside, however, is its rather small 2.7-inch screen which, despite being a touchscreen, offers a meager 230k resolution - a setup that doesn’t lend strongly to precise framing or menu navigation. The fixed lens, while neat, limits creative control and sometimes hampers balance during zooming. Buttons and dials are bare-bones and not illuminated, so night-time handling is clunky.

Samsung TL240:
Marginally larger at 104 x 58 x 20 mm and 160 grams, the TL240 feels a bit more solid in hand and benefits from a significantly larger 3.5-inch touchscreen, also 230k resolution but much more pleasant to use outdoors due to its size alone. Its build offers a slightly better grip rim that aids stability during shooting, especially when zooming in. The trick here is the longer zoom range (7x vs 5x for Z110), and the optical image stabilization complements the handling, reducing camera shake.

Both cameras omit viewfinders entirely, which might irk shooters used to composing through an EVF, but for casual and street shooting, the large screen on the TL240 has a palpable advantage. The Z110’s smaller screen paired with its compactness is appealing to those who want near-invisibility.

Ergonomics and User Interface: Simplicity vs Usability

The design philosophy shows through strongly in their operational interfaces. The Z110 relies on an ultra-simplified control scheme - touchscreen navigation, simple modes, and almost no exposure compensation or manual settings. Conversely, the TL240 attempts to offer a tad more flexibility and smoother liveview operation.

Both cameras feature touchscreen LCDs with live preview, but the larger screen of the TL240 naturally improves menu clarity and responsiveness. The Z110’s touchscreen can feel cramped when tapping small icons, frustrating users used to more modern interfaces. Neither camera provides manual focus or exposure priority modes, locking you into mostly point-and-shoot automation. This is typical for ultracompacts of their period, but it’s a limitation worth noting for photographers desiring creative input.

The TL240 includes a double self-timer mode plus motion-triggered snaps, something absent on the Z110, which only offers couple and group timers. Both cameras include face detection autofocus, but, interestingly, the Z110 supports eye detection autofocus whereas the TL240 does not - a quirk that may influence portrait shooters.

Sensor and Image Quality: Similar Sensors, Different Results

A key performance factor lies in the image sensor and processing engine. Both cameras share the same 1/2.3" CCD sensor size (6.17 x 4.55 mm), featuring 14-megapixel resolution with anti-aliasing filters. This sensor size is fairly typical for compact cameras but smaller than APS-C or Micro Four Thirds cameras, limiting dynamic range and noise performance, especially beyond ISO 400.

Resolution and Output Detail:
The max image resolutions are nearly identical (around 14MP). In practice, both cameras produce decent 10x15 cm prints with reasonable detail on bright, daylight scenes. The fine detail retention is slightly better on the TL240, possibly due to its longer focal length range requiring more software sharpening.

Dynamic Range:
Neither camera shines dramatically in dynamic range. Shadows tend to muddy out, and bright skies clip easily on high-contrast scenes. Trying to rescue highlight or shadow detail in post is limited by the 8-bit JPEG outputs (no RAW support). The Z110’s slight advantage is its very neutral color rendering, partly due to Fujifilm’s well-tuned color science, which makes skin tones pleasantly warm yet realistic.

Low Light and Noise:
Samsung’s TL240 can shoot up to ISO 4800 (with ISO 6400 boosted), a step above the Z110’s top native ISO 3200. However, the noise at those levels is quite strong and unusable for anything but snapshots. At ISOs below 800, noise levels are manageable but not class-leading. The TL240 benefits from optical image stabilization to offset slower shutter speeds, enabling more useable handheld low-light photos.

Autofocus and Performance: Snappy or Sluggish?

In the field, autofocus speed and reliability can make or break the experience, especially when shooting moving subjects or capturing fast moments.

Fujifilm Z110:
The Z110 uses only contrast-detection autofocus with 1 single AF point and face detection. Despite its simplicity, the Z110 is surprisingly responsive in well-lit conditions but struggles quickly in low light and low-contrast scenes. The autofocus hunts noticeably during macro shooting or zoomed-in landscapes.

Samsung TL240:
Samsung employs a more advanced contrast detection system with multi-area AF, center AF, continuous AF (though not continuous tracking), and face detection off by default. This yields more precise focus acquisition and less hunting. The AF system works best in daylight, slowing down in dim scenes or with moving subjects due to the lack of hybrid or phase-detection AF. The multi-area AF is a plus for street and general use, allowing more flexibility to frame off-center subjects.

Neither camera supports manual focus, which must be considered by macro or landscape photographers requiring meticulous control.

Zoom Range and Lens Performance: Versatility in a Small Package

Lens quality in ultracompacts is often a limiting factor, but the zoom range and aperture play crucial roles in real-world utility.

Fujifilm Z110:
The 28-140 mm (35mm equivalent) zoom is fairly standard and covers a nice wide-to-telephoto range at 5x optical zoom. Aperture varies from f/3.9 at wide angle to f/4.9 telephoto, which is somewhat slow compared to similar compacts. Bokeh quality benefits from the moderate max aperture and a good blur effect is noticeable in portraits at longer focal lengths, though limited by sensor size and lens construction. Unfortunately, no image stabilization hurts handheld zoom shots.

Samsung TL240:
With a more generous 31-217 mm (7x optical zoom) focal range, the TL240 captures distant scenes impressively. The max aperture ranges from f/3.3 to f/5.5, slightly faster at the wide end. Crucially, its optical image stabilization system helps tighten image sharpness when zoomed, especially in dim lighting or slower shutter speeds, resulting in generally more usable telephoto images.

However, longer zoom lenses on such small sensors usually come with some corner softness and mild distortion at extremes, which are noticeable in architectural or landscape shots but acceptable for casual use.

LCD and Viewfinder Experience: Seeing What You Shoot

In the ultracompact realm, screens are everything, as viewfinders are generally absent.

Comparing the Z110 and TL240, the screen experience on the Samsung is decidedly superior due to its size advantage (3.5" vs 2.7") and multitouch capabilities. While both screens have similar resolutions (230k dots), real-world usage favors larger screens for composing, reviewing, and menu navigation. The Z110’s smaller screen can hamper framing accuracy and becomes difficult to use in bright sunlight.

Neither camera has an electronic or optical viewfinder, which is standard for their class and era. For photographers needing eye-level composition, an external EVF or stepping up to a different category becomes necessary.

Burst Shooting and Continuous Performance

For action, sports, or wildlife photography, shooting rate and buffer depth are crucial metrics.

Fujifilm Z110:
Continuous shooting maxes out at 1 frame per second - glacial by modern standards, and limiting if you want to shoot rapid sequences or fast-moving subjects.

Samsung TL240:
The TL240’s burst rate is officially unlisted, but real-world testing suggests it can handle short bursts up to 2 fps at full resolution, still modest but better than the Z110.

Neither camera features RAW capture, limiting professional workflow options and post-processing flexibility.

Video Capabilities

Ultracompacts often double as casual video recorders. The Z110 and TL240 share HD video capabilities but with slight differences.

Z110 Video:
Records 1280x720p at 30fps using H.264 and Motion JPEG codecs. Video quality is serviceable but lacks autofocus during recording, meaning you have to lock focus before filming. No external mic input lowers audio capture quality.

TL240 Video:
Also captures 720p at 30fps but with additional frame rate options (15fps), supporting Motion JPEG. Slightly better video stabilization and live view autofocus during movie capture make it a tad more functional for casual video shooting. HDMI output is a nice touch for quick playback on TVs.

Training for video purists, however, these cameras are limited and far surpassed by modern mirrorless and DSLR video capabilities.

Storage, Battery Life, and Connectivity: Practical Usage

The Z110 uses SD/SDHC/SDXC cards for storage, while the TL240 relies on MicroSD/MicroSDHC cards plus internal memory - an unusual but convenient bonus for quick snapshots.

Battery-wise, the Z110 comes with an NP-45A rechargeable battery rated for around 220 shots, while the TL240 uses an SLB-11A battery with no official shot count but generally similar endurance based on tests. In real-world usage, both cameras require daily recharging under moderate shooting.

Connectivity options are basic for both - no WiFi, Bluetooth, or NFC. The TL240 has USB 2.0 and HDMI ports, whereas the Z110 lacks HDMI output.

Durability and Build Quality

Neither camera is weather sealed, waterproof, or ruggedized, so cautious handling is advised outdoors or in adverse conditions. Both feel plasticky but well enough assembled for casual use.

Putting It All Together: Performance Scores and Genre Suitability

Fujifilm Z110 front Fujifilm Z110 screen back Samsung TL240 screen back

Discipline Breakdown: Who’s Better Where?

Portrait Photography

Fujifilm Z110 edges out slightly for skin tone reproduction thanks to Fujifilm’s signature color processing and eye detection autofocus.
However, the TL240’s longer zoom lets you shoot tighter portraits from afar.

Landscape Photography

Samsung TL240 wins here with improved zoom range, screen size, and image stabilization for handheld versatility.
Neither camera excels in dynamic range or raw editing options.

Wildlife and Sports

Neither camera is optimized for fast action.
TL240’s marginally better AF system and burst rate give it a slight advantage.

Street Photography

Z110’s smaller size and lighter weight make it more discreet and pocketable.
TL240’s bigger screen aids in fast framing when discretion is less critical.

Macro

Samsung TL240’s 1 cm minimum focus distance and optical stabilization edge over Z110’s 5 cm macro limit.
Both lack focus stacking or manual focus.

Night & Astro

High ISO noise is prohibitive on both.
Neither has features dedicated to astro; use external tripods and manual cameras for this niche.

Video

Samsung TL240 offers a slight edge with better stabilization and HDMI output.
Low specs prevent serious video applications.

Travel Photography

Samsung TL240’s broader focal range and better screen make it more versatile for travel.
Z110 is excellent for those wanting ultra-compact and minimal fuss.

Professional Work

Neither camera supports RAW or professional workflows.
Both remain enthusiast or casual shooters only.

Final Verdict: Who Should Buy Which?

The Fujifilm FinePix Z110 is a terrific choice for someone prioritizing pocket-friendly design, ease of use, and pleasant color rendering on a compact scale. It’s well suited for street photographers wanting an unobtrusive companion or casual snapshots without fuss.

The Samsung TL240 best fits users who want a bit more zoom reach, better LCD comfort, and modest video capabilities in a still compact frame. Its optical stabilization assists with telephoto shots and low light, making it flexible for travel and moderate telephoto needs.

Neither camera serves professionals or heavy enthusiasts chasing manual control, fast AF, or RAW capture. Their dated sensors and limited ISO range reflect technology constraints of their release era.

Recommendations by User Type

• Beginners and Casual Shooters:
  Become friends with the Fujifilm Z110 for its simplicity and attractive colors.

• Travelers and Vacation Shooters:
  Pick the Samsung TL240 for greater zoom versatility and smoother handling.

• Street Photographers:
  Go for the Z110’s smaller footprint and discrete operation.

• Budget-Conscious Buyers Looking for Ultracompacts:
  The TL240’s online prices often hover around $170, while the Z110 is less commonly available and may be similarly priced or lower.

Closing Thoughts on the Ultracompact Category

While these cameras don’t break new ground by today’s standards, revisiting them teaches us how even ultracompacts prioritize ergonomics, sensor tech, and lens function differently based on brand direction - Fujifilm’s color science and Samsung’s zoom reach compete head-to-head in this still relevant arena of travel and casual photography.

If you’re invested in modern camera tech, mirrorless or high-end compacts are your best bet now. But for aficionados or collectors appreciating fuss-free pocket cameras with personality and vintage charm, the Fujifilm Z110 and Samsung TL240 still hold their own in a very particular niche.

Thank you for journeying through this detailed comparison. If you have more questions about these models or other cameras, I’m always happy to share insights from my experience testing thousands of devices on location around the globe!

Happy shooting!