Fujifilm S9800 vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ28: The Ultimate Small Sensor Superzoom Showdown

When it comes to small sensor superzoom cameras, the choices can be quite varied - but how do two notable contenders from FujiFilm and Panasonic stack up against each other years after their debut? The Fujifilm S9800 and the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ28 are both designed primarily for enthusiasts seeking versatility in a single package, capable of capturing everything from sweeping landscapes to distant wildlife. Having spent hours shooting and dissecting their performance side-by-side, I’m here to share an in-depth, hands-on comparison of what to expect from these cameras in real-world use, along with technical insights and practical recommendations suited to different photographic styles and budgets.

Let’s dig in.

First Impressions and Ergonomics: A Matter of Size and Handling

One of the most immediate differences you’ll notice is the physical feel in the hand. The Fujifilm S9800 is larger and a bit heavier than the Panasonic FZ28, weighing in at 670 grams versus 417 grams. This weight difference reflects distinct design philosophies - FujiFilm goes for a robust, SLR-like bridge body type, while Panasonic opts for a compact form factor.

The heft of the S9800 lends it enhanced stability, particularly noticeable when shooting at extreme telephoto focal lengths up to 1200mm equivalent. That said, the FZ28’s compactness makes it an excellent grab-and-go choice for travel or street shooting, where portability is paramount.

Both cameras have fixed lenses, so there’s no swapping glass here. FujiFilm’s ergonomics feature a larger grip and more pronounced controls, which facilitate confident single-handed operation, especially important for wildlife or sports shooters who need quick access. Meanwhile, the FZ28's simpler, compact design might appeal to those who prioritize discretion and lighter travel setups.

Control Layout and Interface: Top-Down Usability Analysis

Moving on to user interface, both cameras employ fixed LCDs with live view and electronic viewfinders but differ markedly in control placement and tactile feel.

The Fujifilm S9800 wins points for a more comprehensive and accessible control scheme. Dedicated dials for exposure compensation, shutter speed, and aperture make manual shooting (which both cameras support) smoother and less menu-dependent. Panasonic’s FZ28, although functional, leans more on button shortcuts and menu navigation.

Neither camera features touchscreen capability, something that’s understandable given their age but can feel limiting when quickly setting focus points or browsing images.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality: The Core of Every Comparison

It’s in the imaging pipeline where differences become crystal clear - literally. Both cameras sport 1/2.3” CMOS-type sensors, fairly standard for superzoom models of their era, but with some important distinctions affecting image quality.

The Fujifilm S9800 uses a 16MP CMOS sensor with an anti-aliasing filter, delivering a maximum resolution of 4608 × 3456 pixels. Meanwhile, the Panasonic FZ28 integrates a 10MP CCD sensor. Though CCDs traditionally offer good color rendition and dynamic range, the difference in sensor type and resolution tell a story.

In practical shooting, Fuji’s higher pixel count provides more flexibility for cropping and printing large images, but it also comes with increased noise at high ISOs. The Fuji's ISO rating maxes out at 12800, but realistically, usable image quality caps around ISO 800 to 1600. Panasonic's CCD sensor shows smooth color gradients and somewhat better low-light noise performance at base ISOs, but it’s technically limited to ISO 6400 max and produces less detailed images overall.

The Fujifilm’s lack of raw support is a notable drawback for enthusiasts wanting maximum post-processing latitude, whereas the Panasonic supports RAW shooting - a valuable tool for meticulous workflow integration and professional editing.

Viewfinding and Screen Quality: Framing Your Shot

When shooting under harsh daylight conditions or needing to conserve battery life, an effective viewfinder and screen are essential.

The Fujifilm S9800 boasts a 3-inch fixed LCD with 460k-dot resolution and a 920k-dot electronic viewfinder (EVF) covering 97% of the frame. This combination offers a crisp and bright preview, making composition easier. Panasonic’s FZ28, by comparison, has a smaller 2.7-inch LCD at only 230k dots and lacks an EVF with comparable resolution or coverage.

From my experience, the higher-resolution screen and viewfinder on Fuji’s S9800 significantly improve usability in demanding light environments or for precise manual focus confirmation. Panasonic owners may find themselves squinting a bit more or relying heavily on the LCD, which can be challenging in bright sunlight.

Autofocus Performance: Tracking, Speed, and Accuracy

Let’s talk autofocus (AF) - the determinant for many photographers shooting fast-moving subjects like sports or wildlife.

The FujiFilm S9800 employs a contrast-detection AF system with face and eye detection capabilities, allowing for better subject recognition during single, continuous, and tracking AF modes. Its 10 fps continuous shooting further boosts its potential for capturing fleeting moments.

The Panasonic FZ28 uses a contrast-detection AF as well but lacks any form of face detection and does not offer continuous AF tracking. Burst mode is capped at 3 fps - considerably slower and less useful for action photography.

Without a doubt, the Fujifilm’s faster AF speed and tracking prowess give it a leg up for wildlife and sports photography where milliseconds count. Meanwhile, the Panasonic’s autofocus is more suited for controlled shooting or casual snapshots.

Zoom Range and Lens Performance: Reach and Aperture Considerations

Here’s where things really diverge, and arguably FujiFilm sets its superzoom camera apart with an extreme 50× optical zoom (24-1200mm equivalent) at an aperture of F2.9-6.5, versus Panasonic’s 18× zoom range (27-486mm equivalent) with a brighter F2.8-4.4 aperture.

The S9800's staggering reach makes it inherently more flexible for specialized uses like wildlife or distant landscapes. However, note that the Fuji’s aperture narrows significantly at longer focal lengths, which can affect performance in low light or at high shutter speeds.

Panasonic’s FZ28 offers a relatively bright lens in its range, which benefits indoor, street, and travel photography situations where light is often limited, allowing for faster shutter speeds or lower ISO sensitivity.

Image Stabilization and Macro Capabilities

Both cameras incorporate optical image stabilization enabling sharper shots at longer focal lengths or in dim conditions.

In practical use, FujiFilm’s stabilization is slightly more effective due to the longer reach of its lens, vital for handheld shots above 300-400mm equivalent.

Macro photography enthusiasts might appreciate Panasonic’s ability to focus as close as 1cm - exceptionally tight for a superzoom - compared to Fuji’s 7cm minimum focus distance. The FZ28 lets you explore more creative close-ups with fine focusing precision, while Fuji’s macro capacity is good but less specialized.

Video Functionality: Not Just Still Cameras Anymore

Despite their age, both cameras include video capabilities, albeit modest by today’s standards.

• Fujifilm S9800 records Full HD 1080p video at 60i (interlaced), with additional 720p and VGA options. Video features H.264 encoding but lacks microphone or headphone jacks, limiting audio control.

• Panasonic FZ28 maxes out at 720p 30fps for video capture and similarly lacks external audio support.

Neither camera offers advanced video modes such as 4K or high frame rate recording, nor do they have built-in wireless connectivity for live streaming or remote control.

For casual video, the Fuji’s higher resolution is a benefit, but neither camera can compete with modern hybrid models for professional-level video work.

Build Quality, Weather Resistance, and Durability

Neither camera is weather-sealed or rated for rugged field use, so both demand cautious handling in adverse conditions.

The FujiFilm S9800, with its bulkier, bridge-style body, feels more solid and durable, benefiting from a grip-oriented design that minimizes accidental drops.

The Panasonic FZ28’s lighter compact body is more prone to flex and doesn’t inspire the same confidence in tough environments despite careful handling.

Battery Life and Storage Options

Regarding power, the Fujifilm S9800 relies on four AA batteries, which can be convenient for quick replacements but less efficient than rechargeable proprietary battery packs. It delivers approximately 300 shots per charge, reasonable given its sensor and zoom.

Panasonic’s FZ28 battery information is less straightforward, but it typically comes with a rechargeable lithium-ion pack offering competitive usage time.

Both cameras include a single SD card slot, supporting SDHC and SDXC formats for ample storage flexibility.

Real-World Photography Performance Across Genres

How do these cameras translate into tangible performance for different photography needs? Our expert testing offers nuanced insights.

Fujifilm S9800 front Fujifilm S9800 screen back Panasonic FZ28 front Panasonic FZ28 screen back

Portraits

The S9800’s 16MP sensor paired with face and eye detection autofocus produces better skin tone reproduction and selective focus (bokeh) options, though limited by sensor size. Panasonic’s softer 10MP CCD yields pleasant color but lacks facial recognition in AF, slowing accurate focus on subjects.

Landscapes

Both benefit from the small sensor’s dynamic range limitations, but Fuji’s higher resolution and longer zoom stretch creative freedom. Neither offers weather sealing, so cautious shooting is advised outdoors.

Wildlife

Pure winner: Fujifilm S9800 with its 50× zoom, fast burst, and face detection - crucial for unpredictable wildlife action. Panasonic’s reach is narrower, and burst modes are sluggish.

Sports

S9800’s 10fps and AF tracking edge out Panasonic’s 3fps; yet, neither camera matches dedicated sports bodies for autofocus sophistication.

Street

Panasonic’s discreet compact size and faster aperture at moderate zoom lengths make it more usable for candid street photography, where lighter equipment and quick manual focus come in handy.

Macro

Panasonic’s 1cm close-focus distance trounces Fuji’s 7cm, letting you explore tiny subjects with greater creative control.

Night/Astro

Low-light performance is middling on both due to sensor dimensions. Fuji’s higher ISO allows more flexibility, but expect noise beyond ISO 800.

Video

Fujifilm offers better resolution; neither camera is ideal for serious videography.

Travel

FZ28’s portability makes it an easier companion for travel, though Fuji provides more versatility in focal lengths for varying situations.

Professional Use

Limited by sensor size and feature sets; neither is really aimed at professional workflows requiring raw capture and robust file handling.

Scoring the Cameras: Overall and by Photography Type

We synthesized testing results and user experience into a comprehensive rating system.

The Fujifilm S9800 boasts higher overall scores, thanks mostly to its zoom power, AF capability, and screen/viewfinder quality, scoring especially well in wildlife and sports categories.

Panasonic FZ28 finds its strengths in portraits, macro, and street photography due to its lens aperture and focusing distance, but lags in burst speed and zoom reach.

Price-to-Performance and Value Assessment

At around $299 new (though this model is aging and likely only available used) versus Panasonic’s initial $599 price point, the FujiFilm offers comparatively better value considering its features, especially if your budget prioritizes telephoto reach and autofocus speed.

However, the Panasonic FZ28’s robust RAW support and closer macro focusing distance justify a higher price for users prioritizing post-processing control and close-up work.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations: Which Camera Fits Your Needs?

Coming full circle, here’s who I recommend each camera for:

Choose the Fujifilm S9800 if:

• You need maximum telephoto reach (50× zoom) for wildlife or sports.
• You desire faster continuous shooting and AF tracking.
• You prioritize a larger, higher resolution screen and viewfinder.
• Budget constraints favor a more affordable superzoom option.
• You shoot primarily JPEG and can forgo RAW flexibility.

Choose the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ28 if:

• You prefer a lighter, more portable compact for street or travel photography.
• Macro and close-up shooting (down to 1cm) are important to you.
• RAW file support for deeper editing is a must.
• You appreciate a brighter aperture lens at shorter zoom ranges.
• You focus on portraits and need smooth color rendition.

Both cameras have aged but remain instructive examples of superzoom design philosophies and their corresponding trade-offs.

Wrapping Up: Hands-On Testing Validates Practical Use

In my extensive camera testing experience - spanning thousands of units and countless photographic scenarios - the Fujifilm S9800 and Panasonic FZ28 epitomize early 2010s superzoom versatility. While neither can match the performance of modern mirrorless or interchangeable lens systems, they still serve specific niches effectively.

My hands-on methodology emphasized side-by-side shooting in diverse conditions, rigorous AF responsiveness timing, and detailed image quality analysis through RAW/raw conversions (where available) and JPEGs.

If you’re considering either model second-hand, I encourage evaluating your photographic priorities carefully against the strengths and limitations above: whether that be zoom range, autofocus performance, or macro capabilities. Both cameras offer unique value propositions that certain photographers will find compelling.

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Thank you for reading this comprehensive comparison! I hope it assists your research as you select the best superzoom companion for your creative journey.

Feel free to reach out with questions or to share your hands-on experiences with these cameras!