Summary
- On the other hand, the P100 offers a more modest 26x optical zoom lens with a focal length range of 26-676mm.
- The L820 has a 3-inch LCD screen with a resolution of 921,000 dots, while the P100 boasts a larger 3.
- However, the P100 has a dedicated accessory port that allows for the use of specific Nikon accessories, such as the WU-1a Wireless Mobile Adapter for wireless image transfer.
The Nikon L820 and Nikon P100 are two highly regarded compact cameras that offer a range of impressive features for photography enthusiasts. However, understanding their differences is crucial to make an informed decision about which camera best suits your specific needs. This comprehensive comparison guide will delve into the key aspects of both cameras, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed choice.
Image Quality: Resolution and Sensor Size
The Nikon L820 features a 16-megapixel CCD sensor, while the Nikon P100 boasts a 10-megapixel CMOS sensor. Despite the higher resolution of the L820, the P100’s CMOS sensor generally produces images with better noise performance, particularly in low-light conditions.
Lens Capabilities: Zoom Range and Aperture
The L820 comes equipped with a 30x optical zoom lens with a focal length range of 22.5-675mm, providing exceptional versatility for capturing distant subjects. On the other hand, the P100 offers a more modest 26x optical zoom lens with a focal length range of 26-676mm. However, the P100’s lens has a wider maximum aperture of f/2.8-5.6 compared to the L820’s f/3.1-5.9, allowing for better low-light performance and shallower depth of field.
Shooting Modes and Features
Both cameras offer a wide range of shooting modes, including automatic, scene, and manual modes, catering to photographers of all skill levels. The L820 includes a dedicated panorama mode, while the P100 features a macro mode for capturing close-up shots. Additionally, the P100 provides RAW shooting capabilities, allowing for greater flexibility in post-processing.
Video Capabilities
The L820 and P100 both support Full HD video recording at 1080p resolution. However, the P100 offers a higher frame rate of 60fps, resulting in smoother motion capture. Additionally, the P100 features a built-in microphone jack for external audio recording.
Display and Viewfinder
The L820 has a 3-inch LCD screen with a resolution of 921,000 dots, while the P100 boasts a larger 3.2-inch LCD screen with a higher resolution of 1,229,000 dots. Both screens are non-articulating, but the P100’s higher resolution provides sharper and clearer images. Additionally, the P100 includes an electronic viewfinder (EVF) for more accurate framing and composition.
Connectivity and Battery Life
The L820 and P100 both offer Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity for easy image sharing and remote camera control. The L820 has a slightly longer battery life, rated for approximately 250 shots per charge, compared to the P100’s 230 shots per charge.
Accessories and Expandability
Both cameras support a range of accessories, including external flashes, microphones, and remote shutter releases. However, the P100 has a dedicated accessory port that allows for the use of specific Nikon accessories, such as the WU-1a Wireless Mobile Adapter for wireless image transfer.
Key Points: Making the Right Choice
Ultimately, the choice between the Nikon L820 and Nikon P100 depends on your specific requirements and preferences. If you prioritize zoom range and versatility, the L820 is a solid choice. However, if you value image quality, low-light performance, and advanced features such as RAW shooting and an EVF, the Nikon P100 is the superior option.
What You Need to Learn
1. Which camera has better image quality?
The Nikon P100 generally produces better image quality due to its CMOS sensor and wider maximum aperture.
2. Which camera has a longer zoom range?
The Nikon L820 has a longer 30x optical zoom range compared to the P100’s 26x optical zoom range.
3. Which camera is better for low-light photography?
The Nikon P100 has a wider maximum aperture of f/2.8-5.6, which allows for better performance in low-light conditions.
4. Which camera supports RAW shooting?
Only the Nikon P100 supports RAW shooting, providing greater flexibility in post-processing.
5. Which camera has an electronic viewfinder (EVF)?
Only the Nikon P100 features an electronic viewfinder for more accurate framing and composition.