Fujifilm Z35 vs Panasonic Lumix FX75: A Detailed Comparison of Compact Cameras for Enthusiasts and Professionals

When it comes to small-sensor compact cameras, the market is flooded with options that promise portability, ease of use, and a convenient step-up from your smartphone camera. I recently spent several weeks putting two such contenders head-to-head: the Fujifilm FinePix Z35 and the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX75. Though both fall under the "compact" category, they cater to subtly different user priorities and photographic ambitions.

In this hands-on comparison, I’ll draw on over 15 years of experience with digital cameras to unpack how these rivals perform across various photography styles, technical parameters, and real-world use cases. Whether you're a budding enthusiast looking for casual portability or a professional needing a viable grab-and-go backup, my goal is to help you understand which model fits your workflow best.

Let's dive in.

Getting Acquainted: Size, Handling, and Design

One of the first impressions with any compact camera centers on its physical ergonomics - after all, these models are prized for pocketability and all-day carry comfort. Here, the Fujifilm Z35 tips the scales at just 125 grams and measures a petite 90x58x24 mm. By contrast, the Panasonic FX75 is a bit chunkier at 165 grams and dimensions of 103x55x23 mm, yet still eminently pocket-friendly.

The Z35’s ultra-compact frame is ideal for slipping into tight pockets or a small bag compartment, greatly favoring travel and street photographers who prize discretion. But at times, that small size compromises grip comfort - my hands felt a little cramped during extended handling, especially when shooting with one hand.

On the other hand, the FX75, though marginally larger, offers a subtly more contoured body that feels secure and balanced. The top-mounted shutter button and zoom lever cluster naturally under the index finger, making rapid shooting less fatiguing. This might seem trivial, but you can tell a camera was designed with user interaction in mind if these tiny ergonomics fit like gloves.

Let’s also take a look at the top controls, where design can make or break swift camera operation:

The Panasonic’s inclusion of illuminated controls and a modestly larger zoom lever gives you more confidence when adjusting settings swiftly - invaluable in dynamic shooting scenarios like events or street moments. The Z35’s controls are simplified and a bit less tactile, appropriate for beginners, but can feel limiting for those wanting more responsiveness.

Sensor and Image Quality: Under the Hood Comparison

Both models share a small sensor size, common for compacts: a 1/2.3-inch CCD sensor measuring roughly 6.1 by 4.5 mm. Although identical on paper, the Panasonic boasts a resolution of 14 megapixels, while the Fujifilm settles for 10 megapixels.

At first glance, more pixels usually translate to better detail, yet this isn’t the whole story. The Panasonic FX75 also pushes the maximum ISO up to 6400, compared to Fujifilm’s limited 1600 ISO ceiling. However, the FX75's max aperture narrows to f/5.9 at full zoom, potentially impacting low-light performance.

From my testing, in good lighting conditions both cameras deliver respectable images for web sharing or small prints. However, the FX75’s higher megapixel count gives it an edge in resolution-intensive use cases like cropping or moderate enlargement.

When I examined dynamic range - a key factor for landscape and highlight/shadow detail - the FX75’s sensor and newer Venus Engine HD II processor better recovered details from shaded areas without introducing excessive noise. The Fujifilm sensor, while delivering punchy colors typical of its film heritage, struggled to retain shadow nuance in high-contrast scenarios.

In summary:

• Fujifilm Z35: Lower pixel count but vibrant color rendering; limited high ISO usability.
• Panasonic FX75: Higher resolution, better dynamic range, and higher ISO ceiling - but variable aperture affects brightness at telephoto ends.

Behind the Lens: Zoom Range, Aperture, and Macro Capability

One area where these cameras notably diverge is their zoom and lens attribute:

• Fujifilm Z35: 35-105mm equivalent, 3x zoom, f/3.7-4.2 max aperture
• Panasonic FX75: 24-120mm equivalent, 5x zoom, f/2.2-5.9 max aperture

The Panasonic’s broader zoom range offers more framing versatility: from wide-angle for landscapes, architecture, or group shots, up to generous telephoto for casual wildlife and distant subjects. The wider aperture at the wide end allows more light input and better subject isolation.

In contrast, the Z35’s lens is more limited in reach and speed. Its minimum macro focusing distance is 8 cm, versus 3 cm on the FX75 - meaning the Panasonic camera can get you closer to small subjects for detailed flower or insect shots.

LCD Screen and User Interface

In a compact camera, the LCD screen becomes your primary window to the world. Here the Panasonic FX75 slightly outshines the Fujifilm Z35 with a 2.7-inch, 230k-dot screen featuring touch functionality - a welcome modern convenience for selecting focus areas or menu navigation.

The Fujifilm sticks with a 2.5-inch fixed screen of similar resolution but without touch. While the lack of touch isn’t a deal breaker, it makes the Z35 feel a bit dated and sluggish in menu operations.

If you’re someone who values swift, intuitive operation - especially while on the move - the touch LCD on the FX75 is an appreciable bonus.

Autofocus and Shooting Speed: Catching the Moment

Autofocus can be make-or-break in many shooting disciplines like sports, wildlife, and street photography.

The Fujifilm Z35 uses contrast-detection AF with no continuous or tracking modes. As a result, it’s best suited for still, deliberate shooting of stationary subjects. Its autofocus is acceptable in well-lit environments but sometimes hunts noticeably in dimmer settings.

The Panasonic FX75, on the other hand, adds continuous autofocus and basic tracking functionality via contrast detection. It allowed me to maintain focus on moving subjects reasonably well during casual action and street shooting. However, neither camera is designed for high-speed burst shooting: the FX75 manages 2 frames per second max, while the Z35 does not offer burst mode at all.

For quick moments - like kids or pets in motion - the FX75 offers a tangible advantage.

Real-World Photography Disciplines: How Do These Cameras Measure Up?

Let’s look at each key photography genre to see which camera stands out.

Portrait Photography

Portrait shooting demands pleasing skin tones, sharp eyes, and attractive background blur (bokeh).

• Both cameras rely on fixed lenses with relatively narrow apertures, limiting shallow depth of field effects.
• Neither supports face or eye detection autofocus, so precise focus depends heavily on steady hands.
• Panasonic’s wider aperture (f/2.2 at wide end) gives slightly better subject isolation in well-lit portraits.
• Fujifilm’s CCD sensor produces pleasant color rendition - warm and film-like - which could appeal for portrait aesthetics.

Winner: Panasonic FX75 for better aperture and AF features, but Fujifilm Z35 could be charming where color palette matters more than bokeh.

Landscape Photography

Landscape lovers value resolution and dynamic range above all, plus weather resistance for outdoor shoots.

• Panasonic’s higher 14 MP sensor and better dynamic range capture more detail and tonal gradations.
• Wide 24mm lens on the FX75 captures more expansive scenes compared to the Z35’s 35mm start.
• Neither camera is weather sealed, so both require care in inclement conditions.

Winner: Panasonic FX75, given its wider zoom and superior image quality metrics.

Wildlife and Sports Photography

These fast-paced genres require fast autofocus, quick burst rates, and long telephoto reach.

• Neither camera excels here with fixed small sensors and limited zoom speed.
• FX75’s 120mm max lens length doubles Fujifilm’s telephoto reach.
• Panasonic’s continuous AF and tracking gives it an edge, but both cameras are hampered by 2 fps or no burst mode.
• Neither has stabilization on par with more advanced compacts or mirrorless cameras.

Winner: Panasonic FX75, but both only suitable for casual, non-professional wildlife and sports snapshots.

Street Photography

Discreet, fast, and portable is the mantra here.

• Z35’s smaller size and lighter weight excel for unobtrusive carry.
• The FX75’s touch screen and better autofocus responsiveness aid quick candid captures.
• Both lack viewfinders (no electronic or optical), relying on LCD framing.

Winner: Fujifilm Z35 for portability; Panasonic FX75 for quick focusing - your choice depends on priority.

Macro Photography

Close-up enthusiasts need precise focusing and low minimum focusing distance.

• The FX75’s 3 cm macro range allows tighter framing.
• No specialized focus stacking or bracketing on either.

Winner: Panasonic FX75 holds the advantage.

Night and Astro Photography

Low-light performance depends heavily on sensor noise handling at high ISO.

• Fuji limited to ISO 1600 with noisier results.
• Panasonic extends to ISO 6400 with better noise control.
• Neither offers explicit astro or long-exposure modes.

Winner: Panasonic FX75 by a wide margin for night shooting.

Video Capabilities

Many compact users desire HD video capture alongside stills.

• Fujifilm Z35 records only 640x480 (SD) at 30 fps in Motion JPEG.
• Panasonic FX75 shoots up to 1280x720 (HD) at 30 fps using AVCHD Lite or Motion JPEG.
• FX75 offers HDMI output; no external mic ports on either.

Winner: Panasonic FX75, handily.

Travel Photography

Travel needs boil down to versatility, battery life, and size.

• Z35’s small size and weight are definite pluses.
• FX75’s increased zoom versatility and better low-light performance suit diverse scenes.
• Battery information isn't comprehensive, but Panasonic models tend to have slightly shorter runtimes.

Winner: Depends on travel style - Fujifilm for ultra-lightpacking; Panasonic for generalist versatility.

Professional Use and Workflow

Neither of these compacts fits professional habitual use; both lack raw support - crucial for flexible post-processing - and have limited file formats.

• No rugged weather sealing, so unsuitable for harsher conditions.
• Workflow integration is minimal - no WiFi, Bluetooth, or GPS.
• USB 2.0 connectivity only; no tethering.

Winner: Neither truly professional, but Panasonic FX75’s flexibility offers a better casual second-camera option.

Technical Features Breakdown

Here’s a quick recap of some crucial technical aspects that regular photo geeks (like myself) obsess over:

Fujifilm Z35 front Fujifilm Z35 screen back Panasonic FX75 front Panasonic FX75 screen back

Above are representative image crops from both cameras under mixed lighting conditions. Notice Panasonic’s increased detail retention and dynamic range versus Fujifilm’s warmer colors but flatter shadows.

My Personal Take: Pros and Cons

Fujifilm FinePix Z35

Pros:

• Ultra-portable, lightweight design
• Simple, user-friendly controls suited for beginners
• Pleasant color science with classic Fujifilm rendering

Cons:

• Limited zoom range and slow lens aperture
• No image stabilization or burst shooting
• Lower max ISO and no raw support
• Outdated video specs (SD resolution)

Panasonic Lumix FX75

Pros:

• Versatile 5x zoom covering wide to telephoto
• Optical image stabilization for steadier shots
• Higher resolution and better dynamic range sensor
• HD video recording and HDMI output
• Touchscreen for faster interaction
• Continuous and tracking autofocus options

Cons:

• Slightly heavier and bulkier
• Narrower aperture at telephoto end limits low-light tele shooting
• No raw capture
• Modest burst mode only (2 fps)

Comparing overall scores consolidates these observations: Panasonic FX75 pulls ahead on image quality, autofocus, and video, while Fujifilm Z35 shines brightest in portability.

Breaking down performance by photography type echoes previous conclusions: FX75 bests in landscape, portrait, and low-light genres, while Z35 appeals to street and travel photographers prioritizing compactness.

Who Should Buy Which?

• Buy the Fujifilm FinePix Z35 if:

  • Your absolute priority is minimal size and maximum portability.
  • You need a beginner-friendly, no-frills camera for casual family photos or travel snapshots.
  • You're a cheapskate or casual hobbyist who values simplicity over specs.
  • Video and fast action shooting are not on your wish list.

• Buy the Panasonic Lumix FX75 if:

  • You want a versatile compact with solid image quality and zoom breadth.
  • You need decent low-light performance and some degree of autofocus tracking.
  • You value HD video capture and an intuitive touchscreen.
  • You want a pocket camera to complement your more serious gear or a capable compact for varied scenes.

Closing Thoughts: Is There a Clear Winner?

While these cameras operate in the same compact class, they target slightly different niches. The Fujifilm Z35 is a straightforward, ultra-portable stroll camera with nostalgic color tuning but limited functionality. The Panasonic FX75 edges ahead with a more modern feature set enabling broader photographic exploration.

Neither camera will satisfy pro-level demands or anyone serious about raw processing. But for enthusiasts mindful of budget and size constraints, the Panasonic FX75’s combination of zoom versatility, stabilization, and HD video makes it my recommended choice.

Let your needs guide you: if you prize a true pocketable companion, the Z35 won’t disappoint. But if you crave more creative flexibility and technical headroom, the FX75 is the smarter investment.

I hope this deep dive gives you actionable insight into these two small sensor compact cameras. As always, no substitute for trying cameras firsthand if possible - but when that’s tricky, a detailed comparison like this should steer you in the right direction.

Happy shooting!