Fujifilm X30 vs Sony Cyber-shot WX300: An Expert Comparative Review for Enthusiasts and Professionals

In the world of compact cameras, choosing a model that balances image quality, usability, and versatility is a nuanced decision. Two compact models that have often been compared due to their feature sets and form factors are the Fujifilm X30 and the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX300. Both cameras aim to cater to enthusiasts wanting a pocketable camera without compromising functionality, yet each approaches this goal differently.

Having extensively tested both cameras side-by-side, this review will dissect their technical specifications, operational experience, image quality outcomes, and practical performance across major photography disciplines. Our aim is to provide photographers - whether advanced amateurs or professionals looking for a secondary travel-ready camera - with detailed, unbiased insights to guide an informed purchase. We will explore these cameras in terms of body ergonomics, sensor and image quality, autofocus systems, video capabilities, and suitability across various photographic genres.

How They Feel in Hand: Size, Weight, and Ergonomics

Before any image is captured, comfort in handling a camera profoundly influences the shooting experience. The Fujifilm X30, released in 2014, presents itself as a robust compact with a retro-style aesthetic and comprehensive manual controls. The Sony WX300, older by over a year, wears a much smaller and lighter profile aimed at maximum portability.

Fujifilm X30 measures 119 x 72 x 60 mm and weighs approximately 423 grams with battery and card inserted, substantially more than the WX300, which is 96 x 55 x 25 mm and tips the scales at just 166 grams. This difference goes beyond mere numbers; the X30’s girth and textured grip lend stability and ease for prolonged shooting sessions or manual operation, while the WX300’s thin, diminutive body is more conducive to pocket carry but lacks pronounced grip comfort.

Looking down from the top, the design philosophies diverge further:

The X30 features dedicated dials for shutter speed and exposure compensation, a mode dial, and buttons laid out for quick access to ISO, white balance, and autofocus modes - serving photographers accustomed to DSLR-style tactile controls. The WX300's control interface is intentionally simplified, concentrating on point-and-shoot ease, with no dedicated manual exposure dials and fewer buttons overall.

This practical ergonomics comparison alone offers a glimpse into the intended user bases: the Fujifilm X30 appeals to photographers who value manual control and handling comfort, whereas the Sony WX300 targets users prioritizing compactness and straightforward operation.

Sensor Size and Image Quality: The Heart of the Matter

The most substantial technical difference between these two cameras lies in their sensors, which directly influence resolution, low-light performance, dynamic range, and ultimately, image quality.

The Fujifilm X30 boasts a 2/3-inch X-Trans CMOS II sensor sized at approximately 8.8 x 6.6 mm with a 12-megapixel resolution. Fujifilm’s proprietary X-Trans color filter array eschews the traditional Bayer pattern in favor of a randomized arrangement designed to reduce moiré without the need for an optical low-pass filter, yielding sharper images with improved color fidelity.

In contrast, the Sony WX300 is equipped with a 1/2.3-inch BSI CMOS sensor, smaller at roughly 6.17 x 4.55 mm but with an 18-megapixel count. While higher in nominal resolution, smaller pixel pitch often translates into higher noise in low-light and reduced dynamic range compared to larger sensors - an important consideration that has practical impacts.

During testing, the X30’s sensor delivered markedly better tonal gradations, higher dynamic range, and superior high-ISO performance up to ISO 3200, with usable results even beyond this threshold. The WX300’s sensor, while respectable for daylight shooting, showed earlier onset of noise and somewhat flatter tonal reproduction, especially in shadows and highlights.

Further bolstering image quality for the X30 is the availability of RAW file format, which encourages post-processing flexibility - a feature absent in the WX300’s JPEG-only output. For professional workflows or serious entusiasts who value meticulous image editing, this is a significant advantage.

User Interface and Display Technologies

Both cameras feature a 3-inch rear LCD, but their display technologies and usability features reveal distinct priorities.

The Fujifilm X30’s 3-inch screen offers 920k-dot resolution and tilting capabilities, enabling low- and high-angle shooting which benefits macro and creative compositions. Although touchscreen functionality is absent (common for this generation), the tilting mechanism combined with the electronic viewfinder (EVF) provides versatile framing options.

The Sony WX300’s 3-inch LCD is fixed, with a modest 460k-dot resolution, which feels less crisp and makes reviewing images in bright environments more challenging. Its lack of an EVF means eye-level shooting depends entirely on the LCD, which can hamper usability in sunny or unstable shooting conditions.

Regarding live view autofocus performance, the X30 supports faster and more precise focusing, aided by its hybrid autofocus system, while the WX300’s contrast-based AF lags comparatively, affecting spontaneous shots and tracking moving subjects.

Autofocus Systems and Burst Performance

When it comes to autofocus (AF), the Fujifilm X30 incorporates a hybrid system with phase detection pixels that enable faster and more reliable focus acquisition, tracking, and face detection across 49 AF points. It supports continuous AF and tracking, making it more adept at capturing fleeting moments.

Conversely, the Sony WX300 utilizes contrast detection AF only, with a less sophisticated 9-area system and no phase detection pixels, resulting in slower focusing speeds and less effective subject tracking.

Continuous shooting speed also favors the X30, achieving up to 12 frames per second in burst mode against the WX300’s maximum of 10 fps. While these numbers might seem similar on paper, the X30’s faster AF between frames yields a higher keeper rate in real-world high-speed scenarios like sports or wildlife action.

Lens Specifications and Versatility

A fixed-lens camera’s focal length and aperture range substantially impact its creative potential in various disciplines.

The Fujifilm X30’s lens shines with a bright wide end at f/2.0 for superior low-light performance and shallow depth-of-field effects, vital for portraits and creative bokeh work. Its 4x zoom range is more restrained but delivers generally higher optical quality.

In contrast, the Sony WX300’s 20x superzoom extends to a versatile 500 mm telephoto equivalent, ideal for wildlife and distant subjects, albeit with a slower aperture reducing low-light usability and bokeh quality. Notably, it lacks a dedicated macro mode, while the X30 allows focusing as close as 1 cm for close-up detail.

Scene-by-Scene Performance: Practical Application Across Genres

Evaluating real-world performance requires examining how each camera handles specific photographic demands.

Portrait Photography

Portraiture demands skin tone accuracy, smooth bokeh, and reliable face and eye detection.

• Fujifilm X30: Excels due to the larger sensor, bright f/2.0 aperture, and nuanced color reproduction - skin tones appear natural with a film-simulated color profile heritage. Face detection is reliable, and the shallow depth of field achievable allows subject separation with creamier bokeh. Its manual focus aids precision in eye-critical focusing.
• Sony WX300: Although face detection is available, smaller sensor size and slower aperture limit bokeh quality and background separation. Portraits tend to be flatter in tone, and lack of RAW support diminishes post-processing improvements.

Landscape Photography

Dynamic range and resolution, alongside weather resistance, are crucial here.

• The X30’s sensor offers 12 MP with better dynamic range, capturing highlight and shadow detail effectively, and a wider base ISO for flexibility. While it lacks weather sealing, stable image quality and tilting screen enable creative compositions.
• The WX300’s smaller sensor tends to clip highlights more rapidly and struggles in shadows. The vast zoom isn’t a priority in landscapes, and fixed screen plus limited ruggedness reduce compositional freedom.

Wildlife Photography

AF speed, burst rate, and powerful telephoto capability are prioritized.

• The WX300’s 500 mm reach is a clear asset for distant wildlife; however, slower autofocus and reduced low-light sensitivity limit effectiveness during dawn/dusk sessions.
• The X30 offers quicker autofocus and better low-light performance but is limited by a shorter 112 mm telephoto end, reducing reach unless cropping.

Sports Photography

Tracking moving subjects and maintaining speed and accuracy is paramount.

• The Fujifilm X30's phase detection AF and 12 fps burst impress for a compact, improving chances to capture decisive moments.
• The WX300, with contrast detection AF and slower max shutter speeds, is less consistent at tracking fast subjects, despite the telephoto reach.

Street Photography

Discretion, portability, and responsiveness rule here.

• The WX300’s smaller size and quiet operation lend it greater sneakability in candid scenarios.
• The X30, while bulkier, offers superior manual control and image quality but is more conspicuous.

Macro Photography

Close focusing distance and stabilisation matter.

• The X30, allowing focus down to 1 cm and equipped with optical image stabilization, empowers detailed close-ups with less camera shake.
• The WX300 lacks a dedicated macro feature, limiting its macro potential.

Night and Astrophotography

High ISO performance and long exposure capabilities are requirements.

• The X30’s sensor excels at higher ISO settings and has a longer shutter speed (max 30 seconds), enabling star trails and low-light scene capture.
• The WX300’s maximum shutter speed is limited to 1.6 seconds, curtailing astrophotography uses.

Video Capabilities

Both record Full HD 1080p, but differences emerge in codecs and audio input.

• The X30 records at up to 60p with H.264 codec and supports an external microphone for improved audio capture.
• The WX300 records in AVCHD with 60p max but lacks external mic input, reducing control over sound quality.

Battery Life and Storage Options

The Fujifilm X30 uses the NP-95 battery offering around 470 shots per charge - fairly generous for a compact with an EVF and tilting screen. The Sony WX300 uses the NP-BX1 battery, with manufacturer estimates often closer to 300 shots, and has no detailed officially published figures.

Both support SD/SDHC/SDXC cards. The WX300 additionally supports Memory Stick formats, yet this legacy option is less relevant today.

Wireless Connectivity and Additional Features

Both cameras feature built-in Wi-Fi for remote control and image transfer, but neither supports Bluetooth or NFC, limiting seamless mobile pairing options by current standards. HDMI out is available on the X30 but absent on the WX300, enhancing tethered playback or connection to external monitors for Fujifilm’s offering.

Durable Build and Weather Resistance

Neither camera provides environmental sealing, dustproofing, waterproofing, or shock resistance, making them more vulnerable to harsh outdoor conditions compared to newer ruggedized compacts. Photographers working in challenging environments should use protective cases or consider other models.

Price Considerations and Value Assessment

The Fujifilm X30 commands a higher price tag reflective of its larger sensor, advanced controls, and richer feature set. The Sony WX300’s budget-friendly positioning with a superzoom lens caters to casual photographers needing reach without ambitions for manual control or image quality excellence.

Summary of Strengths and Weaknesses

Overall Performance Metrics

Analysis of performance criteria indicates the Fujifilm X30 leads in image quality, control, autofocus, and video utility, whereas the Sony WX300 excels in zoom range and portability.

Performance Across Photography Genres

• Portraits: X30 strong due to sensor size and aperture
• Landscapes: X30 favored for dynamic range, but WX300’s zoom less relevant
• Wildlife: WX300’s zoom range an advantage, but X30’s AF superior
• Sports: X30 better AF and burst shooting
• Street: WX300 excels with size and stealth
• Macro: X30 only viable candidate
• Night/Astro: X30 preferred for shutter speed and ISO handling
• Video: X30 more flexible and higher quality

Sample Images Reflecting Real-World Output

Fujifilm X30 front Fujifilm X30 screen back Sony WX300 front Sony WX300 screen back

Side-by-side sample images clearly exhibit the X30’s richer palette, smoother gradations, and superior low-light detail retention, while the WX300 images demonstrate decent detail in daylight but noticeable noise and flatter color rendition in dimmer scenes.

Final Recommendations: Which Camera Fits Your Needs?

Choose the Fujifilm X30 if:

• You prioritize image quality with better dynamic range and manageable noise at higher ISO settings.
• Manual controls and a tactile shooting experience are important.
• You need RAW capture for advanced editing.
• Video capabilities with external mic support matter.
• You want a compact camera for enthusiast-level portraits, night photography, and travel with creative flexibility.

Choose the Sony WX300 if:

• You require an ultra-compact and very lightweight camera.
• A long telephoto zoom (25–500 mm) is essential, such as for casual wildlife or distant subjects.
• Simplicity and point-and-shoot ease outweigh extensive manual control.
• Your budget is limited, and you can accept lower image quality and fewer professional features.
• You value pocketability above all else.

Closing Thoughts: Hands-On Experience Insight

Having personally reviewed both models in varied conditions, the Fujifilm X30 remains a compelling choice for photography enthusiasts who want an all-around capable compact with creative control and excellent image output. The Sony WX300 embraces a different philosophy: compact convenience and superzoom reach, with trade-offs in control and image quality.

For professionals seeking a compact backup or travelers who demand quick, quality results with some manual input, the X30 fits well. For those valuing absolute portability and zoom versatility for everyday snapshots, the WX300 delivers reasonable performance.

Ultimately, your shooting style, priorities, and budget will dictate the better-fit camera. This detailed comparison affords you the technical grounding and practical insights to make that choice with confidence.

For further details on specifications or to explore sample images and test procedures, please refer to the linked visual charts integrated throughout this review.