With an 18x optical zoom and 12MP backlit CMOS sensor the COOLPIX S9100 hints at being a serious compact. But how does it shape up when put to the WDC test?

Product Overview

Overall rating:

82%

Nikon COOLPIX S9100

Overall score:82%
Features:80%
Value:80%
Performance:80%
Image Quality:85%
Design:85%

Pros:

  • Large focal range, striking LCD, HD video capture

Cons:

  • Lack of manual controls and RAW, plasticky body, slow start up

Product:

Nikon COOLPIX S9100 Review

Manufacturer:

Price as reviewed:

£250.00

Nikon COOLPIX S9100 review – Features

Nikon’s latest entry in to the compact superzoom market is the COOLPIX S9100. The model features a large 18x optical zoom, which is supported by a host of stabilisation technologies, and covers a focal range of 25-450mm in equivalent terms. Nikon boasts that the S9100 features seven types of anti-blur technologies, which includes the aforementioned sensor-shift and electronic vibration reduction. It also covers motion detection, high-ISO settings and a series of dedicated shooting modes aimed at sharp images whatever the light conditions.

Other standout elements of the specification are the 12.1MP back illuminated CMOS sensor and full HD video capture at 1080p resolution complete with on-board stereo sound capture. A striking 3in, 921-k dot LCD  fills the rear of the camera and is well towards the top end of LCD screen specifications, while the on-board EXPEED C2 image processing system also aids image processing.

A disappointing element of the COOLPIX S9100’s specification is the lack of PASM shooting controls, as well as a lack of Raw capture. For a camera which, on the whole, is aimed at a more advanced shooter, you would really expect such elements to feature.

Nikon COOLPIX S9100 review – Design

Nikon sells the COOLPIX S9100 as having a ‘stunningly slim’ body. If you consider the fact that it has a large 18x optical zoom, then the camera is certainly pleasingly slim. However, it’s still relatively bulky compared to a standard compact camera and would struggle to fit in to an average trouser pocket.

When first picking up the camera, the first thing that strikes you is that it feels a touch plasticky. Aside of the sturdy and well fixed scene selection wheel on the camera’s top plate, the camera’s controls all feel of a low quality – not only that, but general imaging controls are accessed by a scroll wheel that is loosely fixed and could easily be jogged in use.

  1. 1. Nikon COOLPIX S9100 review - Features
  2. 2. Performance, Value, Image Quality and Verdict
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