Key points
- 2-inch electronic viewfinder with a resolution of 201k dots and a 3-inch fixed LCD screen with a resolution of 460k dots.
- The P510 offers superior image quality, a longer optical zoom, and a more advanced feature set, making it a better option for capturing high-quality images.
- Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced photographer, both the Nikon L840 and P510 offer compelling features and capabilities.
When it comes to choosing a perfect camera, Nikon’s L840 and P510 models stand out as popular options. Both cameras offer a range of features and capabilities that cater to different photography needs. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the key differences between the Nikon L840 vs P510 to help you make an informed decision.
Sensor and Image Quality
- Nikon L840: Features a 16.0-megapixel CCD sensor with a sensitivity range of ISO 100-6400.
- Nikon P510: Boasts a 16.1-megapixel CMOS sensor with a sensitivity range of ISO 100-3200.
While both cameras offer similar megapixel counts, the P510’s CMOS sensor generally provides better image quality with higher resolution and less noise.
Lens and Optical Zoom
- Nikon L840: Equipped with a 26x optical zoom lens with a focal length range of 22.5-585mm.
- Nikon P510: Features a 42x optical zoom lens with a focal length range of 24-1000mm.
The P510’s significantly higher optical zoom range allows for capturing distant subjects with greater detail.
Viewfinder and Display
- Nikon L840: Has a 0.2-inch electronic viewfinder with a resolution of 201k dots and a 3-inch fixed LCD screen with a resolution of 460k dots.
- Nikon P510: Offers a 0.39-inch electronic viewfinder with a resolution of 921k dots and a 3.2-inch articulated LCD screen with a resolution of 921k dots.
The P510’s larger and higher-resolution viewfinder and LCD screen provide a more immersive and detailed viewing experience.
Shooting Modes and Features
Both cameras offer a wide range of shooting modes, including:
- Auto
- Program
- Aperture Priority
- Shutter Priority
- Manual
- Scene Modes (e.g., Portrait, Landscape)
Additionally, the P510 features a built-in GPS receiver for geotagging images.
Connectivity and Storage
- Nikon L840: Supports Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity for easy sharing and remote control. Uses SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards for storage.
- Nikon P510: Offers Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and NFC connectivity. Uses both SD and CF memory cards for storage.
The P510’s expanded connectivity options and dual memory card slots provide greater flexibility.
Battery Life
- Nikon L840: Powered by an EN-EL12 rechargeable lithium-ion battery with a battery life of approximately 190 shots.
- Nikon P510: Uses an EN-EL5 rechargeable lithium-ion battery with a battery life of approximately 210 shots.
Both cameras offer similar battery life, which is sufficient for most photography sessions.
Which Camera is Right for You?
The choice between the Nikon L840 and P510 depends on your specific photography needs and preferences.
- For casual photographers: The L840 is a great choice with its affordable price, compact size, and easy-to-use interface.
- For enthusiasts and serious photographers: The P510 offers superior image quality, a longer optical zoom, and a more advanced feature set, making it a better option for capturing high-quality images.
The Bottom Line: Nikon L840 vs P510
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced photographer, both the Nikon L840 and P510 offer compelling features and capabilities. By carefully considering the differences highlighted in this comparison, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your photography goals.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q1: Which camera has a touchscreen?
Neither the Nikon L840 nor P510 has a touchscreen.
Q2: Can I use external flashes with these cameras?
Yes, both cameras support external flashes via the hot shoe mount.
Q3: Which camera records videos?
Both cameras can record videos in 1080p resolution.