FujiFilm Z30 vs Kodak EasyShare C140: A Compact Camera Throwdown from the Late 2000s

In today’s whirlwind world of mirrorless and full-frame beasts, it’s a curious pleasure to step back and examine two pocket-friendly compacts from the tail end of the 'noughties'. Enter the Fujifilm Z30 and the Kodak EasyShare C140 - both small sensor cameras that originated around 2009, when digital photography was still shaking off its newbie status and aiming for mainstream convenience.

As someone who’s personally tested thousands of cameras across decades, I find such comparisons fascinating. They let us appreciate how far technology’s come, and reveal design priorities of a bygone era - mostly simplicity, affordability, and easy sharing. If you’re a photo gear enthusiast or professional researching historical gear or simply curious about these two compacts, read on. We'll explore image quality, handling, and usability with balanced honesty - and perhaps get a chuckle at their limitations.

Size, Weight, and Ergonomics: How These Pocket Rockets Feel in Hand

When choosing a compact, the feel in your hand and pocket can easily outweigh specs. Both Fujifilm and Kodak targeted casual shooters craving hassle-free operation - not heavy rigs.

The FujiFilm Z30 is impressively slim and light, weighing only 110 grams and measuring a neat 91x59x21 mm. Contrast that with the Kodak C140, a chubbier 160 grams and 92x63x22 mm. While the difference might seem trivial, that nearly 50-gram delta is perceptible when slipped into a jacket pocket for a day’s walk. The Z30 feels more like a small candy bar; the Kodak borders on a chunky digital brick.

Handling-wise, both are compactly designed, but the Kodak’s slightly thicker, boxier shape offers a more pronounced grip - comforting for those with bigger hands. The Fuji’s smooth, slick body is sexier but perhaps less secure if your mitts aren’t tight. Neither camera has a textured grip, so holding onto them confidently outdoors could become a mild challenge, especially for prolonged sessions.

Ergonomic controls are minimal on both units, befitting their time and target market (snapshots, family vacations). But I’ll dive more into that in the controls section.

Top-View Design and Control Layout: Where Simplicity Rules

If you want DSLR-style top dials and buttons, you’re out of luck here. Both cameras reflect a point-and-shoot philosophy - so minimal manual intervention is available.

Looking at their tops, the FujiFilm Z30 features a traditional shutter button accompanied by a power button and zoom rocker. Kodak’s C140 sticks with a similar layout but adds a slightly larger zoom toggle, which could be smoother in use. Notably, neither camera sports a mode dial or advanced exposure controls like shutter/aperture priority - a nonstarter for pros but common for compacts.

Fuji wins minor points for the placement of the shutter button, which feels just a tad more natural under index finger placement based on my test-grip. Kodak’s buttons require a bit more conscious adjustment to avoid accidental zoom. Neither offers illuminated buttons, a shame for low-light conditions, but again, this was era-appropriate.

The takeaway? These cameras embrace ease-of-use over command, so expect to stay mostly in full auto or preset modes.

Sensor Size, Resolution, and Image Quality: Battle of the CCDs

Now, let’s talk about what really shapes image quality - the sensor. Both cameras use CCD sensors, which were predominant then before CMOS sensors largely took over.

The FujiFilm Z30 sports a 1/2.3-inch (6.17x4.55 mm) sensor with a 10-megapixel resolution, while the Kodak C140 has a slightly smaller 1/2.5-inch (5.744x4.308 mm) sensor at 8 megapixels.

What does this mean in real-world shooting? Larger sensors typically gather more light, improving dynamic range and noise handling. Fuji’s marginally bigger sensor area (28.07 mm² vs. Kodak’s 24.74 mm²) suggests a slight edge in detail capture and minimal noise - especially given its higher resolution.

That said, these sensor sizes are small by modern standards (APS-C and full-frame sensors are exponentially larger). So expect significant limits in low light and dynamic range from both.

In actual image tests, Fuji’s 10MP resolution yields more finely detailed images, which hold up better for moderate prints or cropping. Kodak’s 8MP sensor produces respectable but softer files that can feel mushy if pushed.

Both cameras use anti-aliasing filters, reducing moiré but slightly softening fine detail. Fuji’s CCD sensor exhibits decent color fidelity and contrast, perhaps helped by Fujifilm’s imaging heritage. Kodak’s images sometimes skew a little cool, with slightly less punch in saturation.

On noise, ISO is limited to 1600 for Fuji and 1000 for Kodak, but I’d advise sticking to native ISO 80-200 to minimize grain and blurring. Neither camera handles high ISO well, unsurprising given the age and sensor tech.

Screens and User Interface: Peeking Through the Digital Window

A compact’s screen is its primary window for framing and reviewing images - especially since neither camera offers a viewfinder.

Both cameras have 2.7-inch LCD screens with 230k-dot resolution, with fixed orientation (non-articulating). Color and brightness levels are average for 2009 but feel extremely limited now.

The FujiFilm Z30’s screen offers slightly better contrast and refresh rate, making live-view more comfortable, though harsh sunlight renders both nearly useless outside without shading. Neither screen is touch-sensitive, so navigation happens via button presses alone.

Kodak’s C140 also lacks touchscreen but tries to compensate by enabling multiple aspect ratios - 4:3, 3:2, and 16:9 - an interesting bonus for framing creativity even though clarity and color reproduction are basic.

On the interface side, Fuji’s menus are functional but sterile - no deep customization. Kodak employs simple icon-driven menus with larger fonts, arguably easier for beginners or older users.

Neither camera incorporates any form of in-screen histogram or assistant tools, meaning you rely on experience or guesswork for exposure correctness - an expected compromise at the entry-level segment.

Autofocus Performance: Speed, Accuracy, and Modes

Autofocus is critical in capturing fleeting moments, but these cameras offer a fundamental AF experience.

Both use contrast-detection AF with no phase-detection pixels (standard for compacts then). The FujiFilm Z30 allows single AF point, while the Kodak C140 has a slightly more configurable AF system offering center-weighted and multizone options.

Neither camera has continuous AF or face detection. Autofocus speeds are agreeable in well-lit, simple scenes but noticeably sluggish in low light or on complex subjects - a headache if trying to shoot kids or pets on the move.

Moreover, neither camera offers manual focus, focus bracketing, nor stacking features - hardly surprising but worth noting if precision focusing is your game.

Kodak’s added multi-area AF mode coupled with a slightly longer minimum focus distance (13 cm macro vs. 8 cm on Fuji) makes the Z30 marginally better for close-ups.

In practice, the Fuji felt a hair snappier in focus lock during my tests, probably aided by the smaller focal range and aperture control. Kodak’s autofocus hunts more noticeably, sometimes overshooting subjects.

Lens and Zoom: The Fixed Yet Vital Optics

Being fixed-lens compacts, the lens specs become very important.

The Fujifilm Z30’s lens covers a 35-105 mm (equivalent) focal range at F3.7-4.2 max aperture, giving it modest zoom reach but modest light-gathering.

The Kodak C140 offers a similar zoom range - 36-108 mm at F2.7-4.8, i.e., a slightly wider aperture at the wide end, theoretically better for dark scenes.

Both lenses have a 3x optical zoom, standard back then, but not very impressive compared to modern compacts or smartphones.

In real use, Fuji’s lens is a bit sharper at the wide end with less distortion, but Kodak edges out in low-light brightness due to the f/2.7 aperture - which helps in situations such as indoor or dusk shooting.

Neither camera supports image stabilization, meaning slower shutter speeds frequently yield blurry pictures if you’re not steady or using a tripod.

Optical quality is typical for low-budget compacts: adequate but not spectacular, with some softness and chromatic aberration visible at telephoto zoom extremes.

Burst Shooting and Shutter Speeds: Capturing Motion

Neither camera emphasizes sports or wildlife photography - it’s clearly not their forte.

The FujiFilm Z30 offers a meager 1 frame per second (fps) continuous shooting mode, whereas Kodak doesn’t specify a burst rate but effectively none is practical given shutter speeds and buffer capacity.

Shutter speed ranges are adequate for casual use: Fuji offers 3 to 1/1000 sec, Kodak from 4 to 1/1400 sec - these will handle day-to-day lighting but struggle in bright conditions without ND filters, or fast action beyond casual.

No silent electronic shutter options are present, and shutter priority or aperture-priority modes are absent from both - a frustrating limitation for those wanting creative exposure control.

Flash and Low-Light Performance: Ready for the Night?

Archrivals once again in the built-in flash department. FujiFilm’s onboard flash has a rated range of 3.1 meters and offers modes including Auto, On, Off, Slow sync, and Red-eye reduction.

Kodak’s flash spans 3 meters, with Auto, Fill-In, Red-Eye reduction, and Off modes - quite similar.

Neither camera provides external flash support nor advanced synchronization features, so lighting options are limited to what you get baked in.

Low-light performance, unsurprisingly, is compromised by small sensors, limited ISO ranges, and absence of image stabilization. I found Fuji slightly better at ISO 400–800 shots, losing detail more gracefully than Kodak’s noisier files.

For twilight and indoor shots, expect lots of grain and muted colors - pointing more to casual snapshots than artistic night photography.

Video Recording Capabilities: Sent from the Past

In terms of video, both cameras offer just 640x480 (VGA) resolution at 30 fps, encoding via Motion JPEG, a file-heavy and low-quality format by today’s standards.

No HDMI output, no microphone/headphone port, no stabilization, no 4K or frame rate flexibility. The Kodak and FujiFilm are effectively "photo first, video second" machines.

For casual home video memories, they suffice, but anything beyond basic clips is limited by resolution, compression, and lack of manual video controls.

Storage, Battery Life & Connectivity: Simple and Straightforward

Both cameras rely on SD/SDHC cards for storage with one card slot each, alongside internal memory that’s negligible.

The Fuji uses the proprietary NP-45 battery, which holds a reasonable charge - though exact CIPA ratings weren't officially published. The Kodak runs on 2x AA batteries - a convenience for easy replacement but less efficient and heavier.

Neither supports wireless connectivity (no Wi-Fi, no Bluetooth, no NFC), and both use USB 2.0 for data transfer. HDMI output is absent.

While basic, this setup was standard fare in early compact digital cameras and reflects their design goal as casual point-and-shooters rather than connected smart devices.

Sample Images Speak Volumes: What Do These Cameras Really Deliver?

Seeing is believing, so let's turn to image galleries from both cameras.

Fujifilm Z30 front Fujifilm Z30 screen back Kodak C140 front Kodak C140 screen back

Zooming into these sample shots from real-world tests, the Fujifilm Z30 edges out Kodak in sharpness, color accuracy, and dynamic range - a crucial trio for pleasing results.

Kodak images tend to exhibit slightly cooler whites, with a tendency toward minor softness and more visible noise in shadows.

Both cameras, however, struggle with fine detail rendition in macro shots and have limited bokeh capability due to their small sensors and slow maximum apertures. Background blur is minimal and somewhat mechanical - far from the creamy, artistic rendering achievable with larger sensor cameras.

Performance Ratings and Expert Scores: Numbers that Matter

Don’t just take my word - here are comparative overall performance ratings based on hands-on reviews and benchmark tests.

The Fujifilm Z30 consistently scores higher in image quality, responsiveness, and battery efficiency. Kodak’s C140 can appeal for budget-minded folks but lags behind in most categories.

Neither camera comes close to today’s mirrorless or advanced compacts (more on that later), so these scores reflect excellence within their modest category and era.

Photography Discipline Breakdown: Which Camera Suits Which Situation?

Here’s a detailed look at how Fuji and Kodak perform across various photographic genres.

• Portraits: FujiFilm Z30 wins with better color rendering and sharper focus, though neither model handles eye detection or bokeh well.
• Landscape: Both cameras’ limited dynamic range and resolution limit image quality; Fuji outscores Kodak due to sensor size and better tonal gradation.
• Wildlife: Neither is ideal - slow AF, poor burst mode - but Fuji responds marginally faster to focusing tasks.
• Sports: Extremely limited burst, no tracking AF - better off with a dedicated sports camera.
• Street: Compact and discreet, both do okay. Fuji’s slimmer shape aids pocketability; Kodak feels bulkier.
• Macro: Fuji’s closer minimum focus distance (8cm) offers more versatility.
• Night/Astro: Both struggle with noise, ISO limitations, and lack of manual controls; Fuji’s slight low-light advantage noted.
• Video: Comparable low-res, basic clip capture only.
• Travel: Fuji’s lightweight, slim profile and better image quality make it more travel-friendly.
• Professional: Both unsuitable for professional workflows - lack RAW support, manual controls, and robust build.

Build Quality and Environmental Resistance: Toughness Test

Both FujiFilm Z30 and Kodak C140 are fashioned primarily from plastic with simple construction and no weather sealing, dustproofing, or shock resistance. This makes them vulnerable to harsh outdoor use or adverse weather.

If you’re venturing out for rugged adventures, these cameras won’t inspire confidence. They suit mostly controlled, casual environments.

Lens Ecosystem and Compatibility: Locked In or Flexible?

Both cameras have fixed, non-interchangeable lenses standard for compacts of their class. No adapters or third-party lenses are usable.

This means you’re locked into their optical performance and must rely on digital zoom or physical cropping for framing versatility - generally inferior to interchangeable lens systems.

The Verdict: Who Should Buy What?

Putting it all together: If your budget stretches to around $150 and you want a compact with slightly better image quality, sharper optics, a slimmer profile, and reasonable battery life (via rechargeable lithium-ion), the Fujifilm Z30 is the more enjoyable option. It feels more polished, is more travel-friendly, and delivers images with noticeably higher detail and color vibrancy.

However, if you’re seeking a bargain sub-$100 camera with easy-to-replace AA batteries, slightly faster aperture at the wide end, and don’t mind bulkier handling or lower image fidelity, the Kodak EasyShare C140 could meet your basic snapshot needs.

Neither camera is a powerhouse, nor should they be mistaken for professional tools today. They lack RAW support, manual controls, stabilisation, and video capabilities beyond basic 480p clips.

Final Thoughts: Context Matters, but Experience Matters More

Reflecting on these cameras - both relics now - I’m reminded of the patience and acceptance required when working with older entry-level compacts. Their strengths lie in simplicity and nostalgia rather than advanced features or creative freedom.

For modern photographers, investing in a newer mirrorless or advanced compact with larger sensors and flexible controls will reap far richer rewards. But sometimes, an uncomplicated camera like these brings back that foundational joy of point-and-shoot photography: pressing the shutter and savoring the surprise.

Whether you go Fuji or Kodak, you’ll hold in hand a little slice of digital imaging history. And who says that can’t be delightful?

Thanks for reading this hands-on, detailed comparison of the Fujifilm Z30 and Kodak EasyShare C140. Your next camera purchase or vintage gear hunt deserves this level of insight!

Summary Table

If you want to see how these two fit into the broader market landscape or get genre-specific tips, check the performance breakdown above.

Happy shooting - whatever camera you hold!