Panasonic Lumix DMC FZ38 vs Fuji Finepix S200EXR Comparison
Panasonic Lumix DMC FZ38
Fuji Finepix S200EXR
The Fuji Finepix S200EXR just about scrapes in as a super zoom digital camera with 14.3x zoom. This compares to the 18x zoom on offer from the Panasonic Lumix DMC FZ38. Out of all the compact digital cameras I have tested the Finepix S200EXR handles more like a Digital SLR than any other model. The Lumix DMC FZ38 handles like a more standard compact camera. Both of these cameras offer manual exposure settings and image stabilisation. If you are thinking of manipulating images with a package such as Photoshop you may be interested to know that both models allow images to be captured in RAW format.
Basic Specification
Panasonic Lumix DMC FZ38
12 megapixels
18x Optical Zoom
2.7 inch LCD screen
Viewfinder
Manual Exposure
Macro Focus: 1cm
Dimensions: 117.6 x 75.8 x 88.9mm
Weight: 367g
Conversion lens compatible
High Definition movies
Fuji Finepix S200EXR
12 megapixels
1.x.3 wide angle optical zoom
2.7 inch LCD screen
Viewfinder
Manual Exposure
Macro Focus 10cm
Dimensions: 133.4 x 93.6 x 145mmmm
Weight: 820g
Not conversion lens compatible
Standard Definition Movies
Features
Looking at the basic specification information you may feel the Lumix DMC FZ38 is someway ahead of the Finepix S200EXR, but this is not necessarily the case. On closer inspection you will see both cameras have an impressive range of features. As you will see there is a big difference in weight. This is largely due to the fact the Finepix S200EXR has a big, heavy lens unit. The advantage of this is that zooming in and out is achieved by twisting the barrel rather than pushing buttons or using a zoom ring. There is also a focus ring on the lens as well. For those of you used to handling an SLR camera this could be a big plus point. I also found that the camera has plenty of buttons and dials to place key controls at your fingertips.
One of the most interesting features about the Finepix S200EXR is the shooting modes. One allows you to decrease the number of megapixels you shoot at while increasing the dynamic range. In my tests this helped to produce some of the clearest, sharpest photos I have ever taken with a camera that was not an SLR. There is also a mode that aims to reduce noise in your photos. To get the most out of these features you do need to be prepared to adjust camera settings to suit the conditions and also work with the camera to really get to know its strengths and weaknesses.
If you are looking for a camera that needs a little less intervention then the Lumix DMC FZ38 is a very good choice. You still have access to manual exposure settings, but this camera has a lower price tag. If you do not think you will access all the controls on offer with the Finepix S200EXR there is no need to pay the premium for the camera.
There are also areas where the Lumix DMC FZ38 outperforms the Finepix S200EXR too. For example it wins hands down when you look at the movie modes. This is an area where Panasonic has really pushed the boat out. You can record stereo sound and record movie footage in High Definition as opposed to the standard definition offered by the Finepix FZ38.
Design
As I mentioned earlier the Finepix S200EXR reminds me of a Digital SLR both in how it looks and also how it handles. The Lumix DMC FZ38 also resembles a Digital SLR, but a smaller one than the Fuji camera.
Start Up and Shutter Lag
The cameras are very well matched when it comes to shutter lag. The times they recorded put them towards the top of the table.
Power Supply
Both cameras run on lithium ion batteries.
Picture Quality
When it comes to picture quality the Lumix DMC FZ38 is very good indeed, but the Finepix S200EXR has an extra gear. To try and put this in perspective there are not very many cameras I would place above the FZ38 in this category. The clarity of the photos taken by the S200EXR when you opt for one of the reduced pixel modes is some way above what I am used to seeing.
Ease of Use
Both cameras have plenty of controls and features for you top get to grips with. To get the most out of either camera will take a while unless you are already an experienced photographer. Fuji has clearly put a great deal of effort into how their camera handles. This helps to reduce the time taken to adjust exposure settings.
Verdict
In my view these are two very good cameras. Whichever one you go for you should be able to produce some excellent photographs. If you are prepared to put that extra bit of effort into your photography then the Fuji Finepix S200EXR can richly reward you. If you are looking for something a little more standard then the Panasonic Lumix DMC FZ38 is a very solid choice.
Product Shots
Front View
Panasonic Lumix DMC FZ38
Fuji Finepix S200EXR
Back View
Panasonic Lumix DMC FZ38
Fuji Finepix S200EXR
Top View
Panasonic Lumix DMC FZ38
Fuji Finepix S200EXR
