Highlights
- If you’re looking for a versatile camera with a wide zoom range and good image quality, the Coolpix L810 is a great option.
- However, if you need a camera with superior low-light performance, faster autofocus, and the ability to record Full HD videos, the Coolpix P500 is the better choice.
- The Coolpix L810 is a great value for the price, while the Coolpix P500 offers more advanced features and better image quality.
When it comes to choosing the perfect camera for your photography needs, Nikon’s Coolpix L810 and P500 are two excellent options to consider. Both cameras offer a range of features and capabilities that make them suitable for both beginners and experienced photographers alike. But which one is the better choice for you? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the key differences between the Coolpix L810 and P500 to help you make an informed decision.
Sensor and Image Quality
The Coolpix L810 features a 16.1-megapixel CCD sensor, while the Coolpix P500 boasts a 12.1-megapixel CMOS sensor. While the L810 has a higher megapixel count, the P500’s CMOS sensor typically offers better image quality, especially in low-light conditions. The P500 also has a larger sensor size, which contributes to its superior dynamic range and reduced noise levels.
Lens and Focal Length
The Coolpix L810 has a 26x optical zoom lens with a focal length range of 22.5-585mm. This versatile lens allows you to capture wide-angle shots as well as distant subjects with ease. The Coolpix P500, on the other hand, has an even more impressive 36x optical zoom lens with a focal length range of 22.5-810mm. This extended reach makes the P500 ideal for wildlife photography, sports, and other situations where you need to get close to your subject.
Optical Image Stabilization
Both the Coolpix L810 and P500 feature optical image stabilization (OIS), which helps to reduce camera shake and blur in your images. The P500, however, has a more advanced OIS system that is more effective at stabilizing the image, especially at longer focal lengths.
Autofocus and Shooting Modes
The Coolpix L810 uses a contrast-detect autofocus system, while the Coolpix P500 has a faster and more accurate phase-detection autofocus system. This gives the P500 an edge in capturing fast-moving subjects and in low-light conditions. Both cameras offer a variety of shooting modes, including automatic, semi-automatic, and manual modes, giving you full control over your photography.
Video Recording
The Coolpix L810 can record 720p HD videos at 30 frames per second (fps), while the Coolpix P500 can record 1080p Full HD videos at 30 fps. The P500’s higher resolution and frame rate make it a better choice for videography, especially if you plan on shooting in high-quality.
Display and Viewfinder
The Coolpix L810 has a 3-inch LCD display with a resolution of 921k dots. The Coolpix P500 has a larger 3.2-inch LCD display with a higher resolution of 921k dots. Both displays are bright and clear, but the P500’s larger size and higher resolution make it more comfortable to view and compose images. The P500 also has an electronic viewfinder (EVF), which can be useful for composing images in bright sunlight or when you want to have a more stable shooting position.
Other Features
The Coolpix L810 and P500 both offer a range of additional features, including:
- Built-in flash with red-eye reduction
- Self-timer and intervalometer
- Scene modes for different shooting conditions
- Creative filters and effects
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity
Which Camera is Right for You?
Ultimately, the best choice between the Coolpix L810 and P500 depends on your specific needs and budget. If you’re looking for a versatile camera with a wide zoom range and good image quality, the Coolpix L810 is a great option. However, if you need a camera with superior low-light performance, faster autofocus, and the ability to record Full HD videos, the Coolpix P500 is the better choice.
The Final Verdict
Both the Coolpix L810 and P500 are excellent cameras that offer a wide range of features and capabilities. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced photographer, these cameras can help you capture stunning images and videos. The Coolpix L810 is a great value for the price, while the Coolpix P500 offers more advanced features and better image quality. Ultimately, the best camera for you is the one that meets your specific needs and budget.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q1. Which camera has a better sensor?
A1. The Coolpix P500 has a better sensor with a larger size and CMOS technology, resulting in superior image quality, especially in low-light conditions.
Q2. Which camera has a longer zoom range?
A2. The Coolpix P500 has a longer 36x optical zoom range compared to the Coolpix L810’s 26x optical zoom range.
Q3. Which camera has a better autofocus system?
A3. The Coolpix P500 has a faster and more accurate phase-detection autofocus system, which is better suited for capturing fast-moving subjects and in low-light conditions.