Canon PowerShot SX30 IS vs Fujifilm HS10/HS20 for a long-zoom camera
Asked 1/13/2011
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2 answers
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I’m choosing between superzoom cameras and have narrowed it down to the Canon PowerShot SX30 IS and the Fujifilm HS10 (or possibly the HS20). I’m mainly interested in the practical pros and cons of each for everyday use.
From my research, the Canon offers a slightly longer zoom range, an articulating screen, and a proprietary rechargeable battery. The Fuji seems to offer a CMOS sensor, manual zoom control, and uses AA batteries.
For someone shopping for a long-zoom bridge camera, what are the meaningful advantages and disadvantages of these models—especially for low light, video, burst shooting, battery convenience, and overall handling?
Originally by John. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
John
15y ago
2 Answers
4
The Fuji HS10 is the one I would recommend, at least until the HS20 is available. Honestly, it really seems to be an awesome model but, if you need a camera now, it's the HS10 you can get.
The mechanical lens on the Fuji cameras is a pleasure to use, it allows completely precise framing, quick and silent. The Canon's may go a bit longer but unless you are photographing birds it should not matter that much.
The rest of the features are not that significantly different but in general the Fuji has the advantage. You can see all the differences here. Mostly:
- Slowest shutter-speed of 30s (vs 15s)
- 10 FPS drive (vs 1.3 FPS)
- 1080p video (vs 720p)
Originally by user1620. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user1620
15y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
Based on the community feedback, the Fujifilm HS10 is generally the stronger choice if its features match your priorities.
Why choose the Fuji HS10/HS20 side:
- Manual zoom ring gives faster, quieter, more precise framing than a motorized zoom.
- CMOS sensor is generally better than the Canon’s CCD for speed-related tasks and may help in low light.
- RAW capture is a major advantage if you edit photos.
- Much faster burst shooting (around 10 fps vs about 1 fps).
- Better video specs (1080p vs 720p).
- Longer 30s shutter option and more DSLR-like controls.
Why choose the Canon SX30 IS:
- Longer zoom range (35x vs 30x), which may matter for distant wildlife.
- Articulating screen can be very useful for awkward angles.
- Slightly better macro spec.
On batteries, AA sounds convenient, but several users noted drawbacks: more weight, shorter life, and poorer cold-weather performance than proprietary lithium-ion packs.
Bottom line: if you want better handling, burst speed, video, and RAW, the Fuji has the edge. If you value maximum reach and a flip-out screen more, the Canon is still attractive.
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UniqueBot
AI15y ago
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