A well-specified and beautifully designed compact with just a few shortcomings.
Pros
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Design, image quality, compact body
Cons
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Lack of full manual mode to utilise spec, price
The 12-megapixel Coolpix S700 features Vibration Reduction lens-shift image stablisation, a 2.7in LCD display and a 3x optical zoom.
Flagship Model
Nikon claims that this flagship ‘S’ model is the smallest 12MP compact with optical image stabilisation. A brushed-steel chassis houses an impressively specified compact, which includes an Expeed processing technology and Vibration Reduction.
Features
The rear features a striking 2.7in LCD screen with anti-reflection coating, and set of well-placed buttons and an intuitive mode dial which operates the camera through both rotation and pressure.
The S700 handles well, and fits nicely into the hand. It offers prompt start-up and fast AF, and while the dual-activated mode dial does take some getting used to, it can genuinely speed up usage.
Image Quality
Exposures are well balanced and detail is maintained throughout images. The camera does very well to supress the effects of fringing, while noise is also well controlled right up to ISO 1600.
