Quick Overview
- The Nikon Coolpix L840 and Coolpix P510 are two popular options in the point-and-shoot category, offering a range of features and capabilities.
- The Coolpix L840 uses a contrast-detect autofocus system, while the Coolpix P510 employs a hybrid autofocus system that combines contrast-detect and phase-detect autofocus.
- However, if you’re a beginner or on a budget, the Coolpix L840 offers a good balance of features and affordability.
When choosing a camera, it’s crucial to consider your specific needs and preferences. The Nikon Coolpix L840 and Coolpix P510 are two popular options in the point-and-shoot category, offering a range of features and capabilities. This comprehensive comparison will guide you through the key differences between these two cameras, helping you make an informed decision.
Image Quality: Resolution and Sensor Size
The Coolpix L840 boasts a 16.0-megapixel CCD sensor, while the Coolpix P510 features a 12.1-megapixel CMOS sensor. Despite the higher resolution of the L840, the larger sensor size of the P510 (1/1.7 inches vs. 1/2.3 inches) provides better low-light performance and image quality.
Lens Range and Zoom
The Coolpix L840 has a 35x optical zoom lens, covering a focal length range of 22.5mm to 787.5mm (equivalent). The Coolpix P510, on the other hand, offers a more versatile 42x optical zoom lens, extending from 24mm to 1000mm (equivalent). This wider range allows you to capture wider shots and bring distant subjects closer.
Image Stabilization
Both the Coolpix L840 and Coolpix P510 feature optical image stabilization, which helps to reduce camera shake and ensure sharper images. However, the Coolpix P510 has a more advanced stabilization system called Vibration Reduction (VR), which is more effective in reducing blur during hand-held shooting.
Autofocus System
The Coolpix L840 uses a contrast-detect autofocus system, while the Coolpix P510 employs a hybrid autofocus system that combines contrast-detect and phase-detect autofocus. The hybrid system of the P510 provides faster and more accurate autofocus, especially in low-light conditions.
Burst Mode
For capturing fast-moving subjects, the Coolpix P510 offers a faster burst mode than the L840. It can shoot up to 7 frames per second (fps) in continuous shooting mode, while the L840 is limited to 1.6 fps.
Video Quality
Both the Coolpix L840 and Coolpix P510 can record full HD videos at 1080p resolution. However, the P510 has a higher frame rate of 60 fps, allowing for smoother and more detailed video recordings.
Other Features
The Coolpix L840 and Coolpix P510 offer various additional features to enhance your photography experience. These include:
- Built-in flash: Both cameras have built-in pop-up flash units.
- Scene modes: Both cameras offer a variety of scene modes to optimize settings for different shooting scenarios.
- Creative effects: The Coolpix L840 and P510 allow you to apply creative effects to your images, such as black and white, sepia, and miniature effect.
Which Camera is Right for You?
The best choice between the Coolpix L840 and Coolpix P510 depends on your individual needs and preferences.
- For beginners or casual photographers: The Coolpix L840 is a good option with its simple operation, long zoom range, and affordable price.
- For advanced photographers: The Coolpix P510 is a better choice with its larger sensor, faster autofocus, and more advanced video capabilities.
- For wildlife or sports photography: The Coolpix P510’s longer zoom range and faster burst mode make it a better choice for capturing distant or moving subjects.
- For low-light photography: The Coolpix P510’s larger sensor and advanced stabilization system provide better low-light performance.
The Final Verdict: Coolpix P510
Overall, the Nikon Coolpix P510 is the better choice for serious photographers or those who demand high-quality images, fast autofocus, and advanced video capabilities. However, if you’re a beginner or on a budget, the Coolpix L840 offers a good balance of features and affordability.
Information You Need to Know
Q: Which camera has a longer battery life?
A: The Coolpix L840 has a longer battery life of approximately 190 shots per charge, compared to the P510’s 130 shots.
Q: Can I shoot RAW images with these cameras?
A: No, both the Coolpix L840 and Coolpix P510 only support JPEG image format.
Q: Which camera has a better display?
A: The Coolpix P510 has a slightly larger 3-inch LCD screen with a higher resolution (921,000 dots) than the L840’s 2.7-inch screen (230,000 dots).
Q: Can I use external lenses with these cameras?
A: No, neither the Coolpix L840 nor the Coolpix P510 supports interchangeable lenses.
Q: Which camera is more compact?
A: The Coolpix L840 is more compact and lightweight than the Coolpix P510, making it easier to carry and handle.