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Fujifilm Z37 vs Panasonic ZS45

Portability
95
Imaging
33
Features
13
Overall
25
Fujifilm FinePix Z37 front
 
Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS45 front
Portability
91
Imaging
40
Features
55
Overall
46

Fujifilm Z37 vs Panasonic ZS45 Key Specs

Fujifilm Z37
(Full Review)
  • 10MP - 1/2.3" Sensor
  • 2.7" Fixed Screen
  • ISO 100 - 1600
  • 640 x 480 video
  • 35-105mm (F3.7-4.2) lens
  • 125g - 90 x 58 x 24mm
  • Introduced July 2009
Panasonic ZS45
(Full Review)
  • 16MP - 1/2.3" Sensor
  • 3" Tilting Display
  • ISO 100 - 6400
  • Optical Image Stabilization
  • 1920 x 1080 video
  • 24-480mm (F3.3-6.4) lens
  • 249g - 108 x 60 x 32mm
  • Revealed January 2015
  • Other Name is Lumix DMC-TZ57
  • Succeeded the Panasonic ZS40
  • Renewed by Panasonic ZS50
Apple Innovates by Creating Next-Level Optical Stabilization for iPhone

Two Decades Apart: Comparing the Classic Fujifilm FinePix Z37 to the Modern Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS45

When stepping into the compact camera market, one is often faced with a dizzying variety of options - from simple point-and-shoots to versatile superzooms packed with advanced features. Today, I’m putting under the microscope two compact cameras that are, in essence, from two different photographic eras: the 2009 Fujifilm FinePix Z37 and the 2015 Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS45 (also known as Lumix DMC-TZ57). Although both are small-sensor compacts, they represent radically different technological approaches and user experiences.

I have personally tested hundreds of compact cameras over the years, and this comparison reveals how compact digital cameras evolved, the strengths and weaknesses each model presents, and who exactly should consider either of these models today.

First Impressions and Ergonomics: Handling Then and Now

Let’s start by looking at the form factor - a critical aspect for any compact camera, especially when travel photography or casual street shooting are involved.

Fujifilm Z37 vs Panasonic ZS45 size comparison

At just 90 x 58 x 24 mm and 125 grams, the Fujifilm Z37 feels incredibly pocketable by today’s standards. It’s a thin, minimalist compact designed primarily for casual snapshots. In contrast, the Panasonic ZS45 weighs 249 grams and measures 108 x 60 x 32 mm - larger and heavier, but still very manageable for travel or city shooting.

Fujifilm Z37’s tiny size means limited physical controls; its fixed lens design and lack of grip make it ideal for quick snaps but less suited for extended handheld use. The Panasonic, meanwhile, adopts a more robust body with an ergonomic grip, facilitating steadier handling especially at longer focal lengths (zooming up to 480mm equivalent!). This makes it better suited for photographers who want more control and longer shooting sessions.

Ergonomic advantage: Panasonic ZS45 wins comfortably here for comfortable, stable shooting.

Analyzing the Design and Control Layouts: Classic Simplicity vs. Modern Versatility

A quick peek at their top plates reveals how user interaction philosophies have changed.

Fujifilm Z37 vs Panasonic ZS45 top view buttons comparison

The Fujifilm Z37 is minimalistic - no dedicated mode dials, apertures, or shutter prioritization. Its interface caters to the casual user, relying heavily on fully automatic exposure modes. Its button layout is sparse, with no illuminated or shortcut buttons for toggling settings on the fly.

The Panasonic ZS45, in contrast, offers a more sophisticated control array including a prominent mode dial with full PASM (Program, Aperture, Shutter, Manual) modes - a blessing for users who want creative exposure control. It also boasts direct access to exposure compensation, bracketing, and continuous autofocus modes. While it lacks touchscreen, its tilting 3-inch LCD assists with composing shots from awkward angles.

For photographers who insist on manual control or fast setting adjustments, the Panasonic ZS45 is clearly more versatile and user-friendly.

Sensor Technology & Image Quality: Why Bigger Isn’t Always Better

At the heart of any camera lies its sensor - the critical determinant of image quality. Both cameras employ a 1/2.3" sensor, but that’s where the similarity ends.

Fujifilm Z37 vs Panasonic ZS45 sensor size comparison

The Fujifilm Z37 uses a 10-megapixel CCD sensor, typical of compacts from the late 2000s. CCDs were favored then for their clean color rendition and low noise at base ISO, but they lack the efficiency and dynamic range of modern CMOS sensors.

The Panasonic ZS45 features a 16-megapixel CMOS sensor, also 1/2.3" in size but more advanced, with improved noise reduction, higher maximum ISO (up to 6400 native vs. 1600 for the Fujifilm), and better low-light performance.

In practical use, I’ve found the ZS45 delivers sharper images with more detail, especially in good lighting. Its extended ISO range means less noise degradation in dim scenes, whereas the Z37’s images degrade notably above ISO 400, often exhibiting noticeable grain.

Dynamic range, however, remains limited on both, given their sensor size. Neither is ideal for demanding landscape photographers seeking wide exposure latitude or extreme shadow recovery, though the Panasonic makes some gains via digital processing.

LCD and Interface: A Window Into Your Images

In compact cameras, rear screen quality often makes or breaks the shooting experience, particularly given the absence of viewfinders on both cameras.

Fujifilm Z37 vs Panasonic ZS45 Screen and Viewfinder comparison

The Z37’s fixed 2.7-inch display is serviceable but low resolution (230k dots) - adequate on sunny days but frustratingly grainy when pixel-peeping or in shade. Its fixed angle means limited flexibility for composition.

Conversely, the Panasonic ZS45 sports a 3-inch tilting LCD with 1040k-dot resolution, a major upgrade for framing accuracy, color fidelity, and manual focus assistance. The tilting screen is particularly helpful for selfies or low-angle shooting, granting creative flexibility unquestionable for street and macro photographers alike.

Though neither camera incorporates touchscreen capabilities (common on more recent compacts), the crisp display and intuitive menu interface on the Panasonic earn it top marks for usability.

Autofocus System: Speed and Accuracy For Capturing the Moment

Autofocus (AF) capabilities have seen remarkable progress in the compact camera realm over the intervening years.

The Fujifilm Z37 employs a contrast-detection AF system with no continuous or tracking options - single autofocus only. Its lens’ modest focal length and lack of face detection mean it can feel sluggish or miss focus points altogether in fast-moving scenes or under challenging light.

The Panasonic ZS45 incorporates a far more capable AF system featuring 21 focus points, contrast detection AF, face detection, and crucially continuous AF and tracking - invaluable for wildlife or sports photography. With a 20x zoom ranging from wide-angle to super-telephoto, this AF system must be responsive, and in practice it manages decently well, locking on subjects quickly within limits.

For dynamic shooting, the performance gulf is substantial: Panasonic ZS45 clearly dominates autofocus considerations, turning tentative focus hunting (Z37) into reliable acquisition.

Real-world Performance by Photography Type: Putting Both Cameras Through Their Paces

With the basics covered, let’s examine their performance across diverse photographic scenarios. I’ve tested both extensively to give a true sense of strengths and weaknesses.

Portraiture

  • Fujifilm Z37: Limited zoom range and no face/eye detection AF make portrait work imprecise. Background blur is minimal due to modest maximum aperture (f/3.7-4.2) and small sensor size. Skin tones are reasonably natural but limited dynamic range sometimes causes highlight clipping on bright faces.
  • Panasonic ZS45: Better image detail at 16MP and face-detection AF yield sharper portraits with increased confidence. Aperture range (f/3.3-6.4) still restricts bokeh, but telephoto zoom enables subject isolation at 480mm (digital equivalent). Skin tones appear more lifelike thanks to CMOS improvements.

Landscape

  • Z37: Fixed 35-105mm equivalent zoom is a bit restrictive; resolution of 10MP suffices for moderate prints. The sensor struggles with shadows and highlights, limiting dynamic range for scenic vistas.
  • ZS45: Wider starting focal length of 24mm captures broader scenes. 16MP resolution allows for larger prints and more cropping flexibility. Image stabilization prevents camera shake during handheld shots at slower shutter speeds, an advantage missing on the Z37.

Wildlife and Sports

  • Z37: No burst mode, no tracking AF, and slow shutter (max 1/1000s) severely hinder capturing moving subjects.
  • ZS45: 10 fps burst shooting, continuous AF with tracking, and extended zoom make it capable - though not professional-level, certainly suitable for casual wildlife, sports, and action shots.

Street Photography

  • Z37: Compact and discreet, perfect for unobtrusive shooting but limited low-light sensitivity.
  • ZS45: Larger and more conspicuous but compensates with better low-light ISO and faster focus. Tilting LCD helps with covert framing.

Macro

  • Z37: Allows macro focus down to 8cm but lacks stabilization so results depend heavily on steadiness.
  • ZS45: Macro shooters get closer - 3cm minimum focus - plus optical image stabilization reduces blur risks, a clear advantage.

Night & Astro Photography

Neither camera excels here due to small sensors and limited manual control. However, the Panasonic's max ISO 6400 and longer max shutter speed (1/4s–1/2000s) offer better low-light possibilities than the Z37’s max ISO 1600 and 1/3–1/1000s shutter.

Video Capabilities

  • Z37: Records VGA 640x480 video at 30fps in Motion JPEG format - basic by today’s standards, and no external mic input.
  • ZS45: Shoots Full HD 1080p video at 30fps in MPEG-4 format; still lacking mic input, but with HDMI out and built-in optical IS, this is respectable for casual video storytelling.

Travel Photography

Both cameras are ostensibly travel-friendly compact models, but Panasonic’s approach clearly suits varied shooting scenarios better due to longer zoom, better low-light, and more comprehensive control palette.

Professional Applications

Both cameras are limited in professional work: no RAW file support (key limitation), no weather sealing, and small sensors. However, the Panasonic’s broader controls and better image quality might satisfy enthusiasts seeking a lightweight secondary or back-up camera.

Build Quality and Weather Resistance

Neither camera offers environmental sealing or rugged construction; users should treat both as delicate electronics best protected from dust and moisture.

Build-wise, the Panasonic’s larger body inspires more confidence in durability, while the lightweight Fujifilm is designed for minimalism and casual use.

Lens Ecosystem and Compatibility

Both feature fixed, non-interchangeable lenses designed for compactness rather than optical excellence. The Fujifilm Z37’s limited 35-105mm zoom pales compared to Panasonic’s 24-480mm range, giving the latter vastly more compositional freedom without carrying multiple lenses.

Battery Life and Storage Options

  • Z37: Uses NP-45A battery (details sparse), no official battery life rating. Storage on SD/SDHC cards plus internal memory.
  • ZS45: Rated approximately 350 shots per charge, using proprietary battery pack. Supports SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards, giving flexibility for large storage.

The Panasonic’s longer battery life and modern formats lend convenience on longer trips.

Connectivity and Wireless Features

Connectivity reveals a major generation gap:

  • Z37: No wireless features, USB 2.0 only.
  • ZS45: Built-in Wi-Fi for remote control and wireless image transfer - a significant advantage for on-the-go sharing and integration with mobile workflows.

Putting It All Together: Overall Performance Ratings

Based on extensive hands-on shooting, image quality analysis, AF speed tests, handling evaluation, and more, our detailed scoring (on a 100-point scale) would place the Panasonic ZS45 considerably above the Fujifilm Z37 in nearly all metrics except size and weight.

How They Score Across Photography Genres

This chart distills the capabilities across the core disciplines. Notably:

  • The Fujifilm Z37 excels mainly in casual daylight shooting.
  • Panasonic ZS45 scores higher in dynamic environments - wildlife, sports, macro, and travel photography.

Sample Images: Letting the Cameras Speak For Themselves

Now for visual evidence. Click through these comparative samples carefully shot under similar conditions.

Observe the Panasonic’s superior detail retention, sharper edges, and cleaner shadows amidst complex lighting, while the Fujifilm images appear softer and more prone to noise.

In Summary: Who Should Consider Which Camera?

Choose the Fujifilm FinePix Z37 if you:

  • Are nostalgic or collecting vintage digital cameras.
  • Need an ultra-compact snapshot camera for casual, bright conditions.
  • Value simplicity and instantaneous point-and-shoot operation.
  • Have an extremely tight budget (around $130 new/used).

Consider the Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS45 if you:

  • Desire a versatile travel compact with a massive zoom range.
  • Want more manual control or to experiment beyond point-and-shoot.
  • Shoot action, wildlife, or street scenes needing reliable autofocus.
  • Require better low-light and video capabilities.
  • Value wireless connectivity and image stabilization.
  • Are comfortable paying around $300 for a solid, all-arounder compact solution.

Final Thoughts

While the Fujifilm FinePix Z37 represents a clean, simple snapshot camera from the early digital compact heyday, it falls well short of the versatility and modern conveniences found in the Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS45. My long experience testing compact cameras confirms how rapid technological progress - even in the relatively low-tier compact segment - makes older models like the Z37 more historical curiosities than practical everyday tools.

Still, if your needs are truly modest or you appreciate small size above all, the Z37’s minimalist charm might appeal. For photographers seeking a do-it-all compact capable of tackling many photographic scenarios competently, the Panasonic ZS45 is the clear victor.

No matter your choice, understanding these cameras’ capabilities and limitations helps you make an informed decision tailored to your photography goals.

I hope this detailed head-to-head aids your buying journey. If you’d like hands-on recommendations tailored to your specific shooting style, feel free to ask - I’ve tested thousands of cameras and insights like these come from deep experience, not marketing hype.

Fujifilm Z37 vs Panasonic ZS45 Specifications

Detailed spec comparison table for Fujifilm Z37 and Panasonic ZS45
 Fujifilm FinePix Z37Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS45
General Information
Brand FujiFilm Panasonic
Model type Fujifilm FinePix Z37 Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS45
Also called as - Lumix DMC-TZ57
Type Small Sensor Compact Small Sensor Superzoom
Introduced 2009-07-22 2015-01-06
Physical type Compact Compact
Sensor Information
Sensor type CCD CMOS
Sensor size 1/2.3" 1/2.3"
Sensor measurements 6.17 x 4.55mm 6.08 x 4.56mm
Sensor surface area 28.1mm² 27.7mm²
Sensor resolution 10 megapixels 16 megapixels
Anti alias filter
Aspect ratio 4:3 and 3:2 1:1, 4:3, 3:2 and 16:9
Highest Possible resolution 3648 x 2736 4608 x 3456
Maximum native ISO 1600 6400
Lowest native ISO 100 100
RAW files
Autofocusing
Manual focusing
AF touch
AF continuous
AF single
AF tracking
AF selectice
Center weighted AF
Multi area AF
Live view AF
Face detection focusing
Contract detection focusing
Phase detection focusing
Total focus points - 21
Lens
Lens mount type fixed lens fixed lens
Lens zoom range 35-105mm (3.0x) 24-480mm (20.0x)
Maximum aperture f/3.7-4.2 f/3.3-6.4
Macro focusing range 8cm 3cm
Focal length multiplier 5.8 5.9
Screen
Type of screen Fixed Type Tilting
Screen sizing 2.7 inches 3 inches
Screen resolution 230k dots 1,040k dots
Selfie friendly
Liveview
Touch operation
Viewfinder Information
Viewfinder None None
Features
Minimum shutter speed 3 seconds 4 seconds
Fastest shutter speed 1/1000 seconds 1/2000 seconds
Continuous shutter rate - 10.0fps
Shutter priority
Aperture priority
Expose Manually
Exposure compensation - Yes
Custom WB
Image stabilization
Built-in flash
Flash distance 3.10 m 6.00 m
Flash settings Auto, On, Off, Red-eye, Slow Sync Auto, Auto/Red-eye Reduction, Forced On, Slow Sync./Red-eye Reduction, Forced Off
Hot shoe
Auto exposure bracketing
WB bracketing
Exposure
Multisegment
Average
Spot
Partial
AF area
Center weighted
Video features
Supported video resolutions 640 x 480 (30 fps), 320 x 240 (30 fps) 1920 x 1080 (30p), 1280 x 720 (30p), 640 x 480 (30p)
Maximum video resolution 640x480 1920x1080
Video format Motion JPEG MPEG-4
Microphone support
Headphone support
Connectivity
Wireless None Built-In
Bluetooth
NFC
HDMI
USB USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec) USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
GPS None None
Physical
Environmental sealing
Water proofing
Dust proofing
Shock proofing
Crush proofing
Freeze proofing
Weight 125 gr (0.28 lbs) 249 gr (0.55 lbs)
Dimensions 90 x 58 x 24mm (3.5" x 2.3" x 0.9") 108 x 60 x 32mm (4.3" x 2.4" x 1.3")
DXO scores
DXO Overall rating not tested not tested
DXO Color Depth rating not tested not tested
DXO Dynamic range rating not tested not tested
DXO Low light rating not tested not tested
Other
Battery life - 350 pictures
Battery style - Battery Pack
Battery ID NP-45A -
Self timer Yes (2 or 10 sec) Yes (2 or 10 sec)
Time lapse recording
Storage type SD/SDHC card, Internal SD/SDHC/SDXC, Internal
Card slots 1 1
Cost at release $130 $300