Nikon Coolpix S30 Review
If you are planning to buy a good and inexpensive point-and-shoot camera that you can carry during your beach picnic or while enjoying a dip in the pool, then the latest Nikon Coolpix S30 is the one of the best options for you. The manufacturer has stripped down some of the shooting options as well as the interface that has made the camera simple. Thus, it can be used by the entire family.
The camera is powered by AA batteries. It is capable of surviving for almost 60 minutes underwater until a depth of around 9.8 feet. The camera can survive minor drops as well. The device is not necessarily rugged; on the other hand it is capable of handling more abuse than the regular cameras that are available in the price range of $120.
The camera has an excellent photo quality as well as shooting performance even after being an inexpensive camera. Sometimes the camera works slow and captures above-average photos. The camera is capable of shooting 720p HD movie clips; however it needs lots of light for shooting quality clips. But you should not forget that the S30 is a basic camera. So be ready to click some automatic snapshots and sharing online.
Nikon Coolpix S30 Display :
Located on the back of this camera is a 2.7 inches LCD screen. It is not fantastically detailed for the price it is available. Moreover, considering that the camera has to cope with being underwater, the display isn’t too bad. The menu of the camera has been designed to be easy and simple. The device is packed with most of the important key operations, which are accessible through the four large buttons that are placed at the back of the camera. Moreover, the camera doesn’t have lots of options that would change the complicated settings; however that is something that users of the camera won’t be really looking for.
Nikon Coolpix S30 Performance
Although Nikon has emphasized on the fact that the device is a “family” camera, however the manufacturer has not skimped on any of the high quality features. The sensitivity of the camera ranges between ISO 80 and 1600; on the other hand the device has a maximum aperture of almost f/3.3. Thus, there are chances that the performance of the camera would be reasonably in low light. The camera is similar to some of the children and budget’s compact cameras. Moreove, the Nikon Coolpix S30 offers an optical zoom, which can reach up to 3x. The camera is not exactly phenomenal, when compared with various ultra-high zooms available in the market. The camera is definitely enough for the beginner users.
Nikon Coolpix S30 Design and Build :
It is definitely not one of the sleekest cameras available in the market; moreover it cannot be, as it has is all set appeal to little hands, who enjoy using large buttons. Now talking about the buttons of the camera, then these are supposed to be kept bare minimum. The camera is simple as well as easy to hold and press. In addition to this, the Nikon Coolpix S30 features two shutter buttons, wherein one is reserved for stills while other for the videos. There are chances that you may need some time to sink in the usage of the camera. On the other hand, it offers various features that are pretty handy. Now considering that the camera has to be used by the children, the manufacturer has placed the flash and lens in the centre of the camera. This helps in avoiding blasted fingers from straying in the shot. Considering their target audience it is a smart move by the manufacturer.
Nikon Coolpix S30 Price and Availability :
The expected UK retail price of the camera is £99, thus making it one of the cheapest “rugged” cameras that are available in the market. It was introduced on 29 March. The camera will appeal the families who are planning a picnic to the beach during their family holiday. Now you don’t have to worry about being dropped or sand damage.
Pros of Nikon Coolpix S30 :
The camera boosts big buttons and sports an easy-to-understand interface. The camera offers limited shooting options, and is a family-friendly shockproof and waterproof device.
Cons of Nikon Coolpix S30 :
You should avoid using S30 camera indoors and in low-light conditions.
The Verdict :
Nikon Coolpix S30 camera is rugged yet simple. It is an inexpensive point-and-shoot device to keep poolside. On the other hand it doesn’t try to be anything other than this.
Srinivas Reddy
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