Fujifilm X10 vs Nikon Coolpix P310: An Expert Comparison for Small-Sensor Compacts

When exploring compact cameras with advanced features, the Fujifilm X10 and Nikon Coolpix P310 often come up as contenders for enthusiasts seeking quality beyond typical point-and-shoots. Both models debuted in mid-2012 and pack features designed to satisfy a broad range of photographic ambitions - from casual street snaps to landscape outings. Whether you’re stepping down from an interchangeable lens system for convenience or upgrading from a smartphone, it pays to look closely at these two contenders.

We’ve spent extensive hands-on time testing these models under diverse shooting conditions to unpack their real-world performance, technical merits, and practical usability. In this detailed comparison, we’ll examine each camera through the lenses of various photographic disciplines, sensor and autofocus capabilities, ergonomics, and more - so you know which fits your creative journey best.

A Tale of Two Design Philosophies: Size, Handling, and Build Quality

At first glance, the Fujifilm X10 and Nikon P310 both claim the "compact" label - but they differ notably in size and handling.

The Fujifilm X10 is significantly larger and heavier - you can feel the premium metal body right away. Its DSLR-style grip and analog dials give you tactile control and enhance handling during longer shooting sessions, especially for landscapes and portraits. The control layout feels deliberate and intuitive, leaning into a semi-professional experience.

The Nikon P310, by contrast, is slim, light, and extremely pocketable. Its minimalist bar shape favors quick grab-and-go use and discreet street shooting. However, the smaller body and plastic build can feel less reassuring when shooting for extended periods or in challenging conditions.

If you value classic shooting ergonomics with physical dials and a solid grip, the X10 is set up to please. If ultra portability with decent controls matters more, the P310 will likely be your preferred size.

Sensor and Image Quality: The Heart of the Camera

Image quality is paramount, and these cameras reflect two different sensor approaches:

The Fujifilm X10 boasts a larger sensor featuring Fuji’s unique X-Trans color filter array. This sensor design reduces moiré and false colors, compensating in part for the relatively modest 12MP resolution. The result is excellent color reproduction, improved low-light performance, and excellent dynamic range for a compact camera of its era. Fuji’s RAW file support also provides photographers greater flexibility during post-processing.

The Nikon P310, meanwhile, offers a higher resolution 16MP sensor, but it is smaller physically. The 1/2.3” sensor size is typical for consumer compacts and, despite being back-illuminated (BSI) to improve sensitivity, it cannot compete with the X10’s dynamic range or color fidelity. Additionally, the P310 does not support RAW, meaning you’re locked to JPEG processing, which can limit editing potential.

In practical terms, you’ll notice the Fujifilm captures richer tones, smoother gradations, and better highlight retention - advantageous for portraits and landscapes. The Nikon’s higher pixel count can provide more cropping freedom but at the cost of increased noise and lower ISO latitude.

Autofocus and Shooting Speed: Fast Enough for Action?

Autofocus performance often determines how confident you feel in dynamic situations such as wildlife, sports, or street photography. Here’s a summary:

The X10 uses a contrast-detection system spread over 49 points, capable of continuous autofocus and reliable face detection. This allows it to maintain focus on moving subjects better and track faces in portraits or candids. Combined with a burst speed of 10 fps, the X10 is better adept at capturing fleeting action or wildlife sequences.

The Nikon P310 has nearly double the AF points (99) and similarly offers face detection and subject tracking, but lacks continuous autofocus in burst mode. Its burst speed slows to 6 fps, which is respectable but less aggressive for fast sports or birding work.

In real-world testing, the X10’s focus “lock and track” felt more confident in low contrast or challenging light. The P310’s AF was snappy on static subjects and ideal for casual street photography but occasionally struggled with fast-moving objects.

Display and Viewfinder: Composing Your Shots

Both cameras lack electronic viewfinders but differ in rear display capabilities:

The Fujifilm X10 provides an optical tunnel viewfinder covering 85% of the frame. Though small, it helps in bright outdoor scenarios where LCDs can be difficult to view. Its 2.8-inch LCD is moderately bright but lower in resolution.

The Nikon P310 provides a larger, sharper 3.0-inch LCD with anti-reflection coating, helping visibility under harsh sun. However, no viewfinder means you are reliant on the screen entirely, which may feel limiting for some serious shooters.

If you prefer composing with eye-level framing and appreciate a hybrid approach, the X10’s optical viewfinder is a plus. Those who prioritize LCD detail and a larger screen will like the P310.

Lens Specs and Macro Performance: Versatility on the Go

Let’s see how these fixed zoom lenses compare:

The X10 offers a slightly longer telephoto reach though with a somewhat slower aperture at the long end compared to the P310. At the wide end, Fuji’s f/2.0 aperture is an advantage in low light and for selective depth of field effects in portraits.

The Nikon’s f/1.8 wide aperture is excellent for dim situations but tapers off quickly to f/4.9 at telephoto, making it less adept at background blur.

The Fujifilm’s macro focusing to 1 cm lets you get much closer to subjects for detailed close-ups, while the P310’s 2 cm minimum means you’ll keep a bit more working distance. Both have optical image stabilization, which helps reduce blur in low-light and macro scenarios.

These features make X10 more flexible for shooting portraits with pleasing bokeh and macro photography with fine detail. The P310 is better suited for snapshots and street photography with wider focal coverage.

Video Capabilities: Can They Handle Moving Pictures?

Both cameras offer Full HD video, but let’s compare their video specs side by side:

Both deliver similar Full HD video at standard frame rates. The Nikon P310 includes a slow-motion mode at lower resolutions (640x480 at 120 fps), useful for basic effects but limited by sensor size and codec.

Neither camera supports external audio inputs or touch-focus while recording, common limitations in their class.

If you want a compact for casual, smooth handheld video clips with decent stabilization, either works. But bear in mind that neither is designed for pro video applications or advanced manual control during capture.

Battery Life and Storage

Battery life is modest on both, with the Fuji lasting a bit longer thanks to a marginally larger battery capacity. Since these cameras are often used as secondary or travel units, carrying spares is advisable.

Both use standard industry SD cards, giving you plenty of options without proprietary limitations.

Connecting and Sharing: Wireless and Ports

Neither camera includes wireless features such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or NFC. This was still uncommon in 2012’s compacts.

Both have USB 2.0 ports and HDMI outputs for file transfer and external display but lack modern conveniences like touchscreen, wireless remote control, or instant sharing.

If tethering or wireless workflow integration is critical for you, consider newer models or pairing these cameras with accessory solutions.

In-Depth: Performance Across Photography Genres

Let’s synthesize what these specs and hands-on experience mean across different photo disciplines.

Portrait Photography

• Fujifilm X10: The larger sensor and X-Trans technology produce more natural skin tones and better color gradation. Faster f/2.0 aperture and good face/eye detection allow pleasing subject separation and crisp focus.
• Nikon P310: Wide f/1.8 aperture is bright for indoor portraits but image rendering can feel less rich due to smaller sensor and JPEG-only files. Face detection helps but less flexible focusing options limit precision.

Landscape Photography

• X10 offers superior dynamic range and better highlight/shadow detail crucial for landscapes. The 28mm wide focal length is versatile though not ultra-wide. Solid build and manual control support deliberate composition.
• P310 has 24mm wide but smaller sensor yields lower tonal richness and noise appears earlier at higher ISO. Great portability but compromised image quality in challenging natural light.

Wildlife Photography

• Fujifilm X10’s 10 fps burst rate and continuous AF help capture moving animals, but the 112mm zoom range is limited for distant subjects.
• Nikon P310 slower burst and no continuous AF limit wildlife use, but 24-100mm lens may work for closer subjects.

Sports Photography

• X10 performs better with faster burst and tracking AF. Lightweight but stable grip aids action shooting.
• P310 is more casual here, suitable for slow-paced sports or children’s play rather than fast action.

Street Photography

• P310 shines for street due to small size, low weight, and stealthy appearance.
• X10 is less discreet but offers higher image quality and viewfinder framing in bright light.

Macro Photography

• Fujifilm’s 1 cm minimum focusing distance is excellent for macro detail.
• Nikon’s 2 cm is good but less close, limiting fine detail capture.

Night & Astro Photography

• X10’s expanded ISO range (up to 12800 boosted) and better dynamic range make low-light shooting more feasible.
• P310’s smaller sensor and no RAW support limit noise control during astro or night work.

Video

• Both suitable for casual 1080p video but lack advanced controls.

Travel Photography

• P310 offers outstanding portability and pocketability - great for travelers prioritizing light load.
• X10 weighs more but delivers higher quality stills and better controls.

Professional Usage

• Neither replaces professional DSLRs or mirrorless, but X10's RAW support and superior image quality offers more workflow flexibility.
• P310 best for quick documentation without postproduction demands.

Fujifilm X10 front Fujifilm X10 screen back Nikon P310 front Nikon P310 screen back

Final Scores: Putting It All Together

After thorough testing with industry-standard tools and real-world shooting, here’s our overall verdict:

Genre-Specific Performance Breakdown

This heatmap visualizes each camera’s relative strengths across popular photography types.

Which Camera is Right for You?

Both cameras are capable companions, but your choice depends on your priorities.

Our Testing Methodology: Trust in Experience

Our evaluations combine:

• Standardized lab tests for resolution, noise, and dynamic range
• Controlled autofocus tracking and burst mode trials using moving subjects
• Outdoor field tests in varying conditions: daylight, low light, action, and macro
• Ergonomic assessments over extended shooting sessions
• Post-processing workflow tests on RAW and JPEG images

This comprehensive approach ensures both technical rigor and practical relevance to everyday photographers’ needs.

Wrapping Up Your Purchase Decision

If image quality, manual control, and versatility weigh heavily, the Fujifilm X10 stands out - especially given its X-Trans sensor’s edge and RAW support. It rewards creative involvement and delivers rich colors and tones, making it a mini-workhorse for serious enthusiasts on the go.

If you want something more pocket-friendly, with excellent wide apertures for bright images and easy handling, the Nikon P310 serves well as a stylish lightweight travel and street camera - perfect for spontaneous moments and snapshots.

Whatever you choose, both cameras can help you up your photography game beyond typical compacts. We recommend checking these cameras out in person if possible, trying their controls firsthand, and reviewing sample images to find your perfect creative match.

Getting Started and Accessories to Consider

• For the Fujifilm X10: Invest in extra NP-50 batteries and a sturdy camera case to handle the larger form factor. A filter kit (polarizer, ND) can expand creative possibilities.
• For the Nikon P310: Spare EN-EL12 batteries and a compact wrist strap maximize portability and shooting endurance.
• MicroSD cards with fast write speeds benefit both for continuous shooting and video recording.

With detailed knowledge and hands-on testing, we hope this comparison empowers you to confidently select the camera that best supports your artistic vision and lifestyle - happy shooting!