Optical zoom is a wonderful feature. But...
Because of the small size and light weight of these cameras, when you hit the16x zoom range - you have to have a really steady hand and good holding technique to free-hand a decent shot. Practically speaking, you need to be in a supported position, i.e., resting your arms/elbows on a table top, railing or ledge; or be leaning against a wall; or better yet - using a a tripod.
I recently shot some footage from the cheap seats at 16X zoom by holding the camera with both hands between my legs, with my arms resting on top of my legs, and that worked really well.