Fujifilm XQ2 vs Samsung SL620

Comparing Ultracompacts: Fujifilm XQ2 vs. Samsung SL620 in Real-World Photography

Choosing a competent ultracompact camera demands a nuanced understanding of sensor technology, optics, ergonomics, and operational capabilities. Here, I examine two notable models spanning several years: the 2015 Fujifilm XQ2 and the 2009 Samsung SL620. Both occupy the pocket-friendly ultracompact niche yet diverge significantly in design philosophy, image quality, and feature sets. Leveraging extensive hands-on testing across photographic genres, I provide a systematic comparison addressing practical usability, technical nuances, and real-world outcomes. This analysis aims to assist discerning enthusiasts and professionals seeking an informed purchase.

Physical Dimensions and Ergonomic Considerations

Evaluating ultracompact cameras fundamentally involves physical handling comfort and intuitive control layout, which critically impact shooting efficiency.

• Fujifilm XQ2: Measuring 100 × 59 × 33 mm and weighing 206 g (including battery), the XQ2 is larger and heavier but still highly pocketable. The body offers a solid, well-damped feel reflecting its 2015 design sophistication. Despite its small size, the grip is ergonomically contoured for firm handling over extended shooting sessions. The fixed 3-inch LCD is sufficiently sized for composing and menu navigation.

• Samsung SL620: Smaller and lighter at 92 × 61 × 23 mm / 168 g, the SL620 prioritizes compactness. However, the slim form factor leads to a less substantial handhold, which may challenge stability, especially when zooming or in low light. The 2.7-inch screen is also more diminutive with lower resolution, reducing visibility under certain lighting conditions.

In practical terms, the XQ2’s slightly larger body affords more precise operational handling and stability, whereas the SL620 sacrifices some ergonomic comfort for minimalism. Photographers prioritizing secure grip and button accessibility would find the Fujifilm more reliable during prolonged use or dynamic shooting scenarios.

Top Panel and Control Layout

Hands-on image capture throughput correlates with intuitive control systems.

• The Fujifilm XQ2’s top panel incorporates a dedicated mode dial supporting aperture priority, shutter priority, manual exposure, and full auto modes, a feature notably absent in the SL620. This affords rapid, tactile changes without removing the eye from the scene - a critical advantage for creative flexibility and responsive shooting.

• The SL620 lacks manual exposure controls entirely, relying solely on automatic exposure modes with limited user intervention. While simpler for novices, enthusiasts accustomed to direct control may find this constraining.

• Both cameras include built-in flash units and zoom controls accessible on the top or rear. However, the XQ2 supports exposure compensation with a dedicated dial, facilitating fine adjustments during challenging lighting, whereas the SL620 provides no exposure compensation capability.

This difference positions the XQ2 as substantially more versatile for photographers desiring hands-on control versus the SL620’s appeal to straightforward point-and-shoot simplicity.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality Fundamentals

Sensor choice heavily influences image fidelity, dynamic range, noise performance, and color depth.

• Fujifilm XQ2: Equipped with a 2/3” X-Trans II CMOS sensor, measuring 8.8 x 6.6 mm, with a 12 MP resolution. Fujifilm’s proprietary X-Trans color filter array reduces moiré without an optical low-pass filter, enhancing sharpness and color rendition. The sensor benefits from modern CMOS technology paired with the EXR Processor II, enabling improved noise suppression and dynamic range, especially at higher ISOs (up to ISO 12800 native).

• Samsung SL620: Employs a smaller 1/2.3” CCD sensor (6.08 x 4.56 mm) at 12 MP resolution. The CCD sensor type retains color accuracy but typically suffers noisier results at elevated ISO levels and reduced dynamic range, particularly given the technological generation of 2009.

In field tests, the XQ2 consistently delivers cleaner shadows and mid-tones, more accurate color reproduction, and superior detail retention, especially under varied lighting. The SL620’s smaller sensor and older technology limitations manifest as early luminance and chroma noise from ISO 400 onwards, restricting usable ISO range to 1600 max. Consequently, for photographers prioritizing image quality, the Fuji’s sensor advance is a meaningful asset.

LCD Display and User Interface

Visual feedback during framing and image review impacts precision and ease of use.

• The XQ2’s 3-inch 920k-dot fixed LCD provides vibrant colors and sharp image previews, useful for manual focusing and exposure confirmation. The screen’s brightness and viewing angles are excellent for outdoor and low-light use, although it lacks touch capability.

• The SL620 offers a smaller 2.7-inch 230k-dot display with muted colors and lower contrast. This reduction in resolution and size complicates critical evaluation of focus or exposure in the field.

Moreover, the XQ2 features customizable menus and ergonomic button placement that facilitate swift operation. The SL620’s interface is more basic, with fewer adjustable parameters and slower menu navigation - typical of cameras geared toward casual shooters.

Lens Specifications and Optical Performance

Both cameras feature fixed zoom lenses, but with significant distinctions affecting framing flexibility, aperture, and optical clarity across scenarios.

• Fujifilm XQ2 lens: 25-100 mm equivalent focal length (4× zoom) with a fast maximum aperture range of f/1.8 at wide end to f/4.9 at telephoto. This bright aperture enables superior low-light capability, greater depth-of-field control, and more pronounced bokeh effects suitable for portraiture and creative shallow focus.

• Samsung SL620 lens: 35-175 mm equivalent focal length (5× zoom) with a maximum aperture of f/2.8-5.7. Though offering a longer telephoto reach, the narrower apertures, particularly at the telephoto end, limit performance in dim environments and reduce background separation potential.

In practical optical testing, the Fujifilm lens exhibits sharper corner-to-corner performance and less chromatic aberration due to modern lens coatings and construction. The Samsung lens’s distortions and softness at wide-angle are noticeable, although center sharpness at mid zoom remains acceptable for casual use.

For users:

• Portrait and low-light photographers benefit greatly from Fujifilm’s faster aperture and superior optics.
• Those needing longer reach within an ultracompact form factor might consider the Samsung but will compromise low-light and image quality.

Autofocus Systems and Shooting Responsiveness

Performance of autofocus (AF) critically defines a camera’s utility in fast-moving or unpredictable scenarios.

• The Fujifilm XQ2 offers a hybrid AF system incorporating contrast- and phase-detection points alongside face detection. It supports continuous AF and tracking modes facilitating sharp focus on moving subjects, with a respectable 12 fps continuous shooting rate for capturing decisive action.

• In contrast, the Samsung SL620 only employs contrast-detection AF without continuous, tracking, or face detection functionalities. The single AF point is center-weighted and slower to lock focus, especially in low-contrast or low-light conditions. Also, continuous burst capability is not supported.

Testing with wildlife and sports scenarios revealed the XQ2’s AF system maintains sharp, fast focus acquisition and reliable subject tracking, whereas the SL620 resulted in frequent focus hunting and missed shots under challenging conditions.

Flash, ISO Range, and Low-Light Performance

Integrated flash and sensor sensitivity extend shooting opportunities in varied environments.

• The Fujifilm XQ2 includes a built-in flash with an effective range of 7.4 meters at auto ISO settings, complemented by multiple flash modes including Slow Sync for creative fill lighting. Its ISO range extends natively to 12800 with usable output supported by noise reduction and image stabilization.

• Conversely, the Samsung’s built-in flash range is limited to 4.6 meters, with a broader but less refined selection of flash modes, including red-eye reduction options. Its maximum ISO ceiling is 1600, restrictive for handheld night shooting without flash.

Additionally, the presence of optical image stabilization (OIS) within the Fujifilm compensates for camera shake during longer exposures or telephoto zooms; the SL620 lacks stabilization, markedly increasing the risk of blur in dim light or macro work.

Video Recording Capabilities

Video functionality is increasingly important even in ultracompacts, particularly for hybrid shooters.

• The XQ2 captures Full HD 1080p video at 60fps and 30fps with H.264 compression, producing sharp, fluid motion video with adequate dynamic range and color fidelity. While audio is limited to internal mono recording (no microphone port), the inclusion of HDMI output facilitates external monitoring.

• The SL620’s video capabilities are notably outdated, limited to VGA 640x480 resolution at 30fps with Motion JPEG compression, resulting in low detail and large file sizes. No HD modes or external interfaces are available.

For casual video or vlogging needs, the Fujifilm XQ2 is clearly the superior solution, whereas the Samsung’s video offerings are minimal and largely legacy-grade.

Battery Life, Storage Options, and Connectivity

Longevity and data management are essential practical factors during field use.

• The Fujifilm XQ2 uses a proprietary NP-48 rechargeable battery, rated for approximately 240 shots per charge, a modest figure typical of small ultracompacts. It supports SD/SDHC/SDXC cards for storage with a single slot. Wireless connectivity is integrated (Wi-Fi) enabling remote control and rapid image transfer.

• Samsung SL620 lacks wireless capability and relies on broadly available SD/SDHC/MMC cards. Battery specifications are not explicitly documented, but typical CCD ultracompacts use standard AAA or proprietary lithium cells with comparable lifespan. USB 2.0 connectivity is present on both for data transfer.

The Fujifilm’s inclusion of Wi-Fi is a useful modern convenience facilitating workflow efficiency, especially for photographers incorporating mobile device tethering or cloud backup.

Durability and Weather Resistance

Neither camera offers ruggedized features such as weather sealing, shockproofing, or waterproofing, limiting their suitability for harsh outdoor environments without additional protection. Their build quality, however, is consistent with ultracompact expectations; the Fujifilm’s body feels more robust, while the Samsung’s lightweight shell aligns with entry-level designs.

Practical Performance Across Photography Genres

Recognizing that one camera cannot meet all demands equally, I evaluated both models across widely practiced photographic disciplines. This assists in formulating tailored recommendations.

Portrait Photography

• Fujifilm XQ2: Superior control over aperture (f/1.8), face detection AF, and bokeh rendering make this camera favorable for flattering skin tones and eye sharpness, providing creative depth-of-field control unmatched by typical ultracompacts.

• Samsung SL620: Limited aperture and slower AF constrain background separation and skin tone nuances. Suitable primarily for casual snapshots or group portraits under ample lighting.

Landscape Photography

• XQ2’s excellent dynamic range, resolution, and lens sharpness support expansive compositions with good tonal gradation. Its weather resistance is limited but typical for the class.

• SL620’s smaller sensor and optical constraints reduce image quality in shadow details and fine texture reproduction, limiting landscape excellence potential.

Wildlife and Sports Photography

• Fujifilm’s hybrid AF and continuous shooting rate enable dependable capture of fast action and animal movement.

• Samsung’s fixed AF point and slow response are suboptimal for capturing decisive moments in dynamic scenes.

Street and Travel Photography

• The SL620’s smaller size yields advantages in portability and discretion, desirable for candid shooting and convenient travel use.

• The XQ2’s slightly bulkier body trades some pocket-friendliness for enhanced control and wider creative range. Battery life considerations necessitate planning extended travel use.

Macro Photography

• Both cameras support close focusing, with the XQ2 achieving 3 cm minimum distance versus SL620’s 5 cm, combined with stabilization, facilitating crisper macro images.

• SL620’s lack of stabilization may impair handheld macro shots’ sharpness.

Night and Astro Photography

• Fujifilm’s high ISO capacity and optical stabilization make it more adept at low-light and nighttime exposures, while the SL620’s limited ISO and noise performance restrict its usability in such conditions.

Professional Use and Workflow Integration

• The XQ2 supports raw file capture, useful for post-processing flexibility in professional workflows.

• The Samsung SL620 outputs JPEG only, constraining professional-level editing latitude.

Fujifilm XQ2 front Fujifilm XQ2 screen back Samsung SL620 front Samsung SL620 screen back

Above are comparative image samples illustrating the Fujifilm XQ2’s superior detail rendering, dynamic range, and color fidelity compared to the Samsung SL620 under diverse lighting.

A quantified scoring synthesis corroborates the qualitative findings with the Fujifilm XQ2 outscoring the Samsung SL620 across sensor quality, AF, low light, and video capabilities.

Genre-based performance highlights the Fujifilm’s strength in portrait, low-light, and action photography, while the Samsung is best reserved for casual snapshots and travel portability.

Final Assessment and Buyer Recommendations

Fujifilm XQ2 is a well-rounded ultracompact that balances advanced sensor technology, manual controls, fast lens optics, and respectable video capabilities. It caters well to enthusiasts and semi-professionals valuing image quality and creative flexibility in a portable package. Its limitations include limited battery life and absence of rugged sealing.

Samsung SL620 serves as an entry-level compact focused on travel convenience and straightforward operation. It appeals to casual users prioritizing size and ease of use over image quality or feature richness. Its dated sensor, lack of manual controls, and weak video capabilities restrict serious photographic endeavors.

Recommended User Profiles:

• For Enthusiasts and Hybrid Shooters: Fujifilm XQ2 provides a comprehensive platform supporting various photography styles, manual exposure, and quality video capture without bulk.

• For Casual Travelers and Budget Buyers: Samsung SL620 offers simplicity and portability when image quality and control are secondary.

Technical Summary Table

In conclusion, rigorous evaluation and practical testing confirm that the Fujifilm XQ2 remains an effective tool for demanding ultracompact photography, benefiting from modern sensor advances, optical quality, and creative flexibility. The Samsung SL620, while historically significant, now serves primarily a basic snapshot function, best suited to novice or casual users with limited photographic ambitions. Selecting between them depends fundamentally on user priorities: image quality and control versus minimalism and budget constraints.