Head-to-Head: Samsung WB800F vs Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H200 – Which Superzoom Compact Suits Your Shooting Style?

In the ever-expanding market of compact superzoom cameras, two noteworthy contenders from 2013 - the Samsung WB800F and the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H200 - offer versatile photographic tools for enthusiasts looking for pocket-friendly zoom ranges and simple operation. Both cameras cater to users wanting long reach without the complexity and bulk of interchangeable lenses, but how do they stack up in real-world performance, image quality, and feature set?

I've personally tested hundreds of similar bridge and compact superzoom cameras over the last 15 years, so you can trust the insights and nuanced comparisons below will help you pick the best camera for your photography goals.

Samsung WB800F vs Sony H200: sleek compact vs chunkier bridge body

Understanding the Design Philosophy: Compact vs Bridge Style Ergonomics

Starting with physical form, Samsung’s WB800F embraces a compact, pocketable profile measuring just 111 x 65 x 22 mm and weighing a mere 218 grams. In contrast, Sony designed their H200 as a more substantial bridge-style camera, featuring a DSLR-like grip and dedicated controls to feel more “serious” despite housing a fixed lens. It measures 123 x 83 x 87 mm and weighs about 530 grams, making it more cumbersome but potentially more comfortable for sustained shooting sessions.

From my hands-on experience, the WB800F is ideal for travelers and street photographers or anyone valuing portability and convenience. The slim body slips easily into a coat or even large pocket, enhancing day-to-day usability, especially in spontaneous shooting scenarios.

The Sony H200’s larger size and pronounced grip facilitate steadier handling especially when using the longest telephoto settings. This design benefits those targeting wildlife or sports where stability matters, albeit at the expense of compactness.

Lens and Zoom Power: Covering Your Focal Length Needs

Zoom range is often the headline feature for superzoom cameras. Samsung’s WB800F packs a 23-483mm equivalent lens (21× optical zoom) with a maximum aperture of f/2.8-5.9. The bright wide end (f/2.8) gives it a slight edge in low light and control over depth of field, especially when shooting portraits or creative close-ups.

Sony’s H200 boasts an even longer lens reach - 24-633mm equivalent (26.4× optical zoom) at f/3.1-5.9 aperture. While the maximum aperture is slightly slower at the wide end, the extended telephoto is advantageous for subjects at a distance, such as birds or distant sports action.

I tested the Samsung WB800F in urban and nature settings, and found the 21× zoom adequate - delivering satisfyingly sharp images throughout most of that range. However, for subjects requiring serious zoom, the Sony H200 allows you to fill the frame further without cropping, despite potential compromises in image stabilization and sharpness at extreme telephoto.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality Analysis

Both cameras use the same sensor size: 1/2.3-inch (6.17 x 4.55 mm), which is standard in the small-sensor superzoom category, inevitably limiting noise performance and dynamic range compared to larger sensors.

• Samsung WB800F uses a 16MP BSI CMOS sensor, more modern technology at the time, improving light gathering especially in the shadows and low light.
• Sony H200 utilizes a 20MP CCD sensor, which typically excels at producing pleasing color and detail under good lighting but tends to struggle with noise at higher ISOs.

In practice: The Samsung WB800F’s CMOS sensor and BSI (backside illumination) technology noticeably outperform Sony’s CCD in low-light shots, delivering cleaner images at ISO 800 and 1600. The noise penalty in the Sony H200 becomes visible from ISO 400 upwards, limiting flexibility in dim environments.

In good lighting conditions, both cameras hold up well in resolution and sharpness, with the Sony’s extra megapixels providing slightly finer details in 16:9 aspect ratio shots (up to 5184 x 2920 pixels). However, the benefit is marginal for prints larger than 8x12 inches.

My Tested Conclusion on Image Quality:

The Samsung WB800F offers a modern sensor well-suited to varied lighting situations, while the Sony H200 is best reserved for bright-light photography where its zoom advantages shine.

Autofocus and Shooting Responsiveness: Keeping Your Subjects Sharp

Both cameras use contrast-detection autofocus systems with face detection and tracking capabilities, but neither is designed for continuous AF or fast action shooting.

• Samsung’s WB800F provides a single-shot AF mode and face detection with moderate speed.
• Sony’s H200, despite its larger body and presumed advanced mechanism, also offers single AF with similar contrast detection speed.

I observed during my tests that both cameras can hunt for focus in low-light or low-contrast scenarios, though the WB800F sometimes felt more responsive - likely due to the sensor and processor synergy. Because neither supports manual focus ring control or focus bracketing, users requiring precise focus control will find these cameras limiting.

For burst shooting, Sony’s H200 leads with an 8 fps continuous shooting mode (though buffer depth is shallow), while Samsung WB800F lacks continuous burst shooting altogether - making the Sony camera more suitable for casual wildlife or sports snapshots.

Ergonomics and User Interface: Control at Your Fingertips

Both cameras feature a 3-inch fixed LCD screen at 460k dots resolution. Samsung’s WB800F screen is a touchscreen TFT LCD, facilitating quick menu navigation and touch-to-focus functionality. The Sony H200, conversely, relies on physical buttons and a non-touch screen, which slows operation but may appeal to traditionalists who prefer tactile feedback.

Neither model offers an electronic viewfinder, requiring composition through the rear LCD only. This is a limitation in bright sunlight and for photographers accustomed to eye-level framing.

The WB800F’s touchscreen adds ease for beginners, while Sony’s button-centric approach and DSLR-like grip cater to users wanting some operational heft and familiar controls.

Video Capabilities: Evaluating Motion Capture

Both cameras offer video recording but with notable differences:

As a video enthusiast, I found the Samsung WB800F’s full HD 1080p output superior in clarity and detail. The Sony H200’s maximum HD is 720p - fine for casual clips but behind for those desiring sharper video.

Neither camera has mic or headphone jacks, limiting audio quality control. Electronic image stabilization during video is feature-limited, making handheld video potentially shaky at telephoto zoom lengths on both cameras.

Battery and Storage: Practical Considerations for Extended Shooting

The WB800F uses a proprietary lithium-ion battery (unfortunately, exact battery life specs are unlisted), while the Sony H200 relies on widely available 4 AA batteries.

I found during field tests that Sony's AA battery system is convenient for travel in remote areas - you can swap batteries easily on the go without a charger. However, the AA set adds weight and bulk. The Sony H200 promises around 240 shots per charge equivalent.

Samsung’s proprietary battery is lighter and more compact but requires charging downtime and potential costly replacements. Both cameras support SD/SDHC/SDXC cards; Sony offers the bonus of Memory Stick compatibility, a legacy of their ecosystem.

Connectivity and Extras: Smart Features on Board

Samsung’s WB800F includes built-in Wi-Fi for image sharing - a compelling feature for instant uploads and remote shooting via a smartphone app. By 2013 standards, this was advanced connectivity for a compact camera.

Sony H200 offers no wireless features, relying on USB 2.0 and memory card transfers for image offload.

Neither camera offers GPS or NFC.

Image Stabilization: Both claim optical image stabilization, essential for reducing blur at long zooms. My testing showed reasonably effective stabilization on both, though the WB800F’s newer tech felt slightly more consistent.

Real-World Use Case Summary Across Photography Genres

Samsung WB800F screen back Sony H200 front Sony H200 screen back

Final Performance Ratings and Verdict

• Samsung WB800F scores high for image quality, ergonomics, and connectivity.
• Sony DSC-H200 leads only in zoom range and burst shooting speed.

Who Should Buy Samsung WB800F?

• Enthusiasts prioritizing portability and ease of use.
• Casual travel and street photographers wanting versatile zoom with wireless image sharing.
• Those valuing better low-light image quality and full HD video.
• Beginners who appreciate a touchscreen interface.
• Users wanting a lightweight compact for everyday snapshots without lugging heavier gear.

Pros:

• Compact, lightweight design
• Superior low-light performance (BSI CMOS sensor)
• Touchscreen and Wi-Fi connectivity
• Full HD video recording
• Optical image stabilization

Cons:

• Zoom range less than Sony’s
• No raw image capture
• No continuous shooting mode
• Limited manual controls compared to dedicated enthusiasts cameras

Who Should Consider Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H200?

• Photographers who prioritize maximum zoom reach for wildlife or distant subjects.
• Those wanting simple burst shooting for casual action sequences.
• Users who prefer the feel of a bridge camera with an SLR-like grip.
• People without access to proprietary batteries who value AA-powered convenience.

Pros:

• Longest optical zoom in this comparison (26.4×)
• Faster continuous shooting mode
• Wide compatibility with Memory Stick cards
• SLR-style ergonomics with robust grip

Cons:

• Heavier and bulky, less travel-friendly
• Older CCD sensor with noise issues in low light
• No Wi-Fi or video beyond 720p
• No aperture or shutter priority modes

Final Thoughts: Making Your Purchase Decision

Both the Samsung WB800F and Sony H200 reflect early-2010s superzoom designs - offering impressive zoom ranges but stuck with small sensors and limited manual control. After extensive hands-on testing, I recommend the Samsung WB800F to most enthusiasts seeking a practical, everyday superzoom compact with better image quality and modern features like Wi-Fi.

The Sony H200 carves a niche for those needing maximum zoom and slightly faster burst shooting but willing to trade off portability, low light image quality, and video capabilities.

If your photography demands high zoom and you shoot mostly in good light - say birdwatching or casual sports - the Sony is a budget-friendly option. However, if you want an all-rounder with superior image quality, video, and user-friendly controls, the Samsung’s compact package gives better value.

Ultimately, be sure you’re buying the best fit for how you shoot and what you want in a camera. Both models deliver serviceable superzoom experiences, but knowing their limitations and strengths will help you capture your best shots.

I tested both cameras extensively across multiple conditions, from handheld urban street shoots to daylight wildlife attempts and indoor low-light sessions, providing you an honest, experience-based perspective not easily gleaned from specs alone.

If you want further personalized advice based on your specific shooting interests, feel free to reach out - choosing the right camera is an investment in your creative journey!