Quick summary
- The L820 offers a solid balance of features and image quality for its price, while the B500 provides a more powerful zoom lens and a built-in GPS at a slightly higher cost.
- If you are looking for a versatile camera with a wide zoom range, the Nikon COOLPIX B500 is a great choice.
- However, if you are on a tighter budget or prefer a camera with a more traditional design, the Nikon COOLPIX L820 is an excellent option.
The Nikon COOLPIX L820 and B500 are two entry-level cameras that offer a solid balance of features and affordability. Both cameras are ideal for beginners and casual photographers looking to capture their memories without breaking the bank. However, each camera has its own unique strengths and weaknesses. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key differences between the Nikon COOLPIX L820 vs B500, helping you make an informed decision about which camera is the best fit for your photography needs.
Sensor and Image Quality
The Nikon COOLPIX L820 and B500 feature different sensor sizes and resolutions. The L820 boasts a 1/2.3-inch CCD sensor with an effective resolution of 16.0 megapixels. On the other hand, the B500 has a smaller 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor with a slightly lower effective resolution of 16.0 megapixels.
While both cameras offer similar resolutions, the B500’s CMOS sensor is generally considered to have better low-light performance and produce less noise at higher ISO settings. However, the L820’s CCD sensor may offer slightly warmer and more natural-looking colors.
Lens and Zoom Capabilities
One of the key differences between the Nikon COOLPIX L820 vs B500 is their lens and zoom capabilities. The L820 has a 26x optical zoom lens with a focal length range of 22.5-585mm, providing a versatile range for capturing both wide-angle and telephoto shots. The B500, on the other hand, features a more powerful 40x optical zoom lens with a focal length range of 22.5-900mm, offering an even greater reach for capturing distant subjects.
Viewfinder and LCD Screen
For composing and reviewing your shots, the Nikon COOLPIX L820 features a 0.3-inch electronic viewfinder with a resolution of 230k dots. While the viewfinder is small, it can be useful for framing shots in bright conditions or when you need a more stable view. The B500 does not have an electronic viewfinder, so you will have to rely on the LCD screen for composing and reviewing your images.
Both cameras have 3.0-inch LCD screens with a resolution of 921k dots. The LCD screens are bright and clear, making it easy to view your images and adjust settings. However, the L820’s LCD screen is fixed, while the B500’s LCD screen is articulating, allowing you to tilt and rotate it for more flexible shooting angles.
Connectivity and Features
The Nikon COOLPIX L820 and B500 offer similar connectivity options, including Wi-Fi and NFC. Wi-Fi allows you to transfer images and videos wirelessly to your smartphone or tablet, while NFC makes it easy to pair the camera with compatible devices for quick and easy data transfer.
In terms of features, the L820 offers a wide range of shooting modes, including automatic, scene modes, and manual modes. It also has a built-in flash and a self-timer for capturing group shots or taking selfies. The B500 has a similar range of shooting modes, but it also features a built-in GPS for geotagging your images.
Battery Life
The Nikon COOLPIX L820 and B500 both use AA batteries. The L820 has a slightly better battery life, with a CIPA-rated battery life of approximately 250 shots per charge. The B500 has a CIPA-rated battery life of approximately 210 shots per charge.
Price and Value
The Nikon COOLPIX L820 and B500 are both budget-friendly cameras, but the L820 is typically priced lower than the B500. The L820 offers a solid balance of features and image quality for its price, while the B500 provides a more powerful zoom lens and a built-in GPS at a slightly higher cost.
Which Camera is Right for You?
Ultimately, the best camera for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you are looking for a versatile camera with a wide zoom range, the Nikon COOLPIX B500 is a great choice. However, if you are on a tighter budget or prefer a camera with a more traditional design, the Nikon COOLPIX L820 is an excellent option.
Summary of Key Differences
| Feature | Nikon COOLPIX L820 | Nikon COOLPIX B500 |
| — | — | — |
| Sensor | 1/2.3-inch CCD | 1/2.3-inch CMOS |
| Resolution | 16.0 megapixels | 16.0 megapixels |
| Lens | 26x optical zoom (22.5-585mm) | 40x optical zoom (22.5-900mm) |
| Viewfinder | 0.3-inch electronic viewfinder (230k dots) | None |
| LCD Screen | 3.0-inch fixed LCD screen (921k dots) | 3.0-inch articulating LCD screen (921k dots) |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, NFC | Wi-Fi, NFC, GPS |
| Battery Life | Approximately 250 shots per charge | Approximately 210 shots per charge |
| Price | Lower | Higher |
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: Which camera has better image quality?
A: The Nikon COOLPIX B500 generally has better image quality, especially in low-light conditions, due to its CMOS sensor.
Q: Which camera has a longer zoom range?
A: The Nikon COOLPIX B500 has a more powerful 40x optical zoom lens, while the L820 has a 26x optical zoom lens.
Q: Which camera is more portable?
A: The Nikon COOLPIX L820 is slightly more compact and lightweight than the B500.
Q: Which camera has a better battery life?
A: The Nikon COOLPIX L820 has a slightly better battery life, with a CIPA-rated battery life of approximately 250 shots per charge.
Q: Which camera is better for beginners?
A: Both the Nikon COOLPIX L820 and B500 are suitable for beginners, but the L820 may be slightly easier to use due to its more traditional design.