Nikon COOLPIX AW100

83%

Overall Durability

Image Quality

Ease of Use

Waterproof Performance

Video Quality

Autofocus Speed

Low-Light Performance

Battery Life

Portability

GPS Functionality

Price-to-Value Ratio

Build Quality

Customer Support

Overview

The Nikon COOLPIX AW100 is a rugged, all-weather digital camera built for outdoor enthusiasts. This waterproof camera can withstand depths of up to 33 feet, making it ideal for underwater shots. Additionally, it’s shockproof and freezeproof, designed to survive harsh conditions like drops or freezing temperatures. Equipped with a 16MP CMOS sensor, it delivers clear, high-quality images even in low light. The built-in GPS is perfect for geotagging photos, so you can keep track of your outdoor adventures. As a compact camera, it offers both durability and portability for various active lifestyles.

Features & Benefits

This rugged digital camera offers several standout features that make it ideal for adventurers. The 5x optical zoom lens provides versatility for capturing distant subjects, while the Full HD 1080p video recording ensures high-quality footage with stereo sound. Its 16MP CMOS sensor excels in low light, allowing you to take vibrant pictures even during dusk or dawn. The 3-inch LCD display offers a clear view for composing your shots, and its optical image stabilization helps reduce blurriness in motion shots, making it easier to capture crisp photos on the go.

Best For

This Nikon camera is perfect for those who lead an active lifestyle. It is especially suitable for water sports enthusiasts, travelers, and photographers who need a durable, reliable camera. Whether you're exploring underwater caves, hiking in remote locations, or simply capturing your daily adventures, this camera delivers the reliability you need. It's also a great option for casual users seeking a versatile point-and-shoot that can handle a variety of outdoor conditions, including snow, rain, and rough terrain.

User Feedback

Many users have praised the camera's durability, noting its rugged build and water resistance as major selling points. The image quality, even in various lighting conditions, generally receives positive feedback, with most reviewers appreciating the sharpness and clarity of photos. However, some users have reported issues with the autofocus being a bit slow in low light settings, which can be a challenge for quick action shots. Overall, users find it easy to use and are especially pleased with the GPS functionality that helps track photo locations during outdoor adventures.

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Pros

This waterproof camera excels in rugged environments, making it perfect for outdoor adventures like hiking or snorkeling.
Full HD video recording with stereo sound provides high-quality footage for both photos and videos.
The built-in GPS allows for accurate geotagging, which is great for documenting remote trips.
Its compact, lightweight design makes it easy to carry while traveling or during outdoor activities.
Waterproof, shockproof, and freezeproof features ensure it can withstand various challenging conditions.
Many users appreciate its ease of use, especially for casual photographers and beginners.

Cons

The autofocus can be slow in low-light conditions, which may frustrate users in dim environments.
Its image quality may not be as strong as some other cameras in the same price range when shooting indoors.
The 5x optical zoom may feel limiting for users who prefer more zoom power for distant subjects.
Some users find that the camera's performance drops when taking continuous shots in challenging lighting.
While it's rugged, some may find its design bulky compared to more compact, everyday-use cameras.
Battery life could be longer for extended use, particularly when recording video or using GPS features extensively.

Ratings

The following ratings for the Nikon COOLPIX AW100 are based on verified global user reviews from multiple platforms and languages. Only authentic, high-quality feedback was considered, with spam, bot, and incentivized reviews filtered out. Both strengths and common pain points are reflected in the scores, providing a balanced overview of this rugged digital camera’s performance and user experience.

Overall Durability

88%

Many users praise this rugged digital camera for its solid build, making it an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts. The camera’s ability to withstand drops, water, and freezing conditions provides peace of mind during adventurous activities like hiking or underwater photography.

However, a few users mention that while the camera's durability is commendable, its bulky design may be less convenient for casual users or those looking for a more compact camera for everyday carry.

Image Quality

85%

The 16MP CMOS sensor delivers clear, vibrant photos, even in varied lighting conditions. Many buyers note that the camera’s image quality surpasses expectations for a compact, rugged model, especially when shooting outdoors or in well-lit environments.

Some users have reported that the image quality drops slightly in low light, with visible noise or grain in darker scenes. This might be an issue for those looking for a camera with consistent performance across all lighting conditions.

Ease of Use

90%

This waterproof camera is incredibly user-friendly, with intuitive controls and a simple interface. Many reviewers mention that even first-time users or casual photographers can easily pick up the camera and start shooting without a steep learning curve.

A few users felt that the menu system could be more streamlined. While the camera is easy to use for basic functions, some mentioned that advanced settings could be more intuitive or accessible.

Waterproof Performance

91%

One of the standout features of this rugged digital camera is its waterproof capabilities, rated to 33 feet. Users appreciate how it performs flawlessly underwater, making it ideal for water sports, snorkeling, and beach trips.

However, some users caution that while the waterproof feature works well, prolonged exposure to saltwater may affect the camera’s performance over time. Regular maintenance and care are needed to ensure its longevity in such environments.

Video Quality

83%

The Full HD 1080p video recording capability is appreciated by many users, especially those who want to capture high-quality videos during their adventures. The addition of stereo sound adds to the immersive experience for casual video shooting.

Despite the good video quality, several users mentioned that the lack of advanced video features or frame rate options limits its potential for more serious videographers. Additionally, some noted that autofocus during video recording could be slow or inconsistent.

Autofocus Speed

65%

35%

Users generally find the autofocus adequate for most situations, especially when shooting outdoors or in well-lit areas. The camera quickly locks focus on subjects in most conditions, ensuring sharp photos in typical settings.

However, many buyers have pointed out that autofocus is slow, particularly in low-light environments. This can be frustrating when trying to capture fast-moving subjects or in dimmer conditions like indoor shoots or dusk.

Low-Light Performance

70%

30%

The camera’s ability to perform in low-light conditions is appreciated by some users, with results that are acceptable for casual use. The 16MP sensor provides decent clarity even in dim environments.

However, a significant number of users note that the low-light performance isn’t great, with noticeable noise and reduced detail in darker areas. For those who prioritize night or indoor photography, this may be a dealbreaker.

Battery Life

80%

20%

The battery life of this camera is generally adequate for short outdoor trips. Many users are satisfied with how long it lasts during typical use, such as day-long hikes or outdoor photography sessions.

However, a few users mentioned that battery life could be better, particularly for extended sessions or when using video recording frequently. The camera may require frequent recharges during multi-day trips or intense usage.

Portability

86%

Despite its rugged build, this camera remains compact and lightweight, making it a good option for outdoor adventures where space and weight are a concern. Users appreciate its portability for hiking or traveling.

A few buyers have pointed out that, while portable, the camera is a bit bulkier than some other travel cameras. This could be a downside for those seeking a smaller, more pocket-friendly option for everyday use.

GPS Functionality

89%

The built-in GPS functionality is a hit with travelers and adventurers, allowing them to geotag photos for easy tracking of locations. This feature is especially useful for users who enjoy exploring remote areas or documenting their journeys.

However, some users note that the GPS can take a while to lock onto satellites, especially in areas with poor signal reception. While functional, it's not as fast or responsive as more advanced GPS systems in higher-end devices.

Price-to-Value Ratio

87%

Many users feel that this camera offers excellent value for its price, especially considering its rugged features, waterproof capabilities, and ease of use. It is seen as a good option for those who need a versatile camera for outdoor adventures without breaking the bank.

However, some buyers mentioned that while the camera offers good features for the price, there are other models in the same price range that offer more advanced specs or faster performance, which could make it less attractive for users seeking cutting-edge technology.

Build Quality

92%

This camera is praised for its excellent build quality, designed to withstand harsh conditions like drops, water, and freezing temperatures. Users find it durable and reliable, especially for outdoor activities.

A few users report minor cosmetic issues with wear and tear over time, particularly after heavy use in extreme conditions. While the camera remains functional, some wish the external materials were even more resistant to scratches and dents.

Customer Support

76%

24%

Several users report positive experiences with the manufacturer's customer support, finding them helpful when needed for troubleshooting or basic inquiries. The support team is generally responsive and professional.

However, some users expressed frustration with slow response times or difficulty resolving specific issues. A few buyers noted that getting replacement parts or assistance with more complex problems took longer than expected.

Suitable for:

The Nikon COOLPIX AW100 is a great choice for outdoor enthusiasts and travelers who need a durable, all-weather camera. Its rugged, waterproof, shockproof, and freezeproof design makes it ideal for activities like hiking, snorkeling, or skiing. The built-in GPS functionality will also appeal to adventurers who want to geotag their photos in remote locations. Casual photographers seeking a versatile point-and-shoot with reliable performance will find it easy to use, especially for capturing high-quality images and Full HD video during trips or water sports.

Not suitable for:

This waterproof camera may not be the best choice for users who prioritize superior performance in low-light conditions or those seeking high-end professional features. Its autofocus can be slow in dimly lit environments, which might be frustrating for indoor photographers or anyone needing fast focus in challenging lighting. Additionally, while its compact design is portable, it may feel bulky compared to more lightweight models for everyday carry, making it less ideal for users who need a small camera for casual, on-the-go use.

Specifications

Sensor: Equipped with a 16MP CMOS sensor for sharp image quality and detail.
Waterproof: Waterproof up to 33 feet (10 meters) for underwater photography.
Shockproof: Shockproof design can withstand drops from up to 5 feet (1.5 meters).
Freezeproof: Freezeproof for temperatures as low as 14°F (-10°C), ideal for cold-weather use.
Zoom: 5x optical zoom lens provides versatile shooting options.
Video Resolution: Records Full HD 1080p video with stereo sound for high-quality video capture.
Display: 3-inch LCD display for easy framing and viewing of images and videos.
GPS: Built-in GPS for location tagging, perfect for documenting remote locations.
ISO Range: ISO range of 125–3200 for improved low-light performance.
Continuous Shooting: Supports continuous shooting at 7.1 frames per second for fast-moving subjects.
Optical Image Stabilization: Includes optical image stabilization to reduce blur from hand movement.
Video Format: Records video in MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 format, ensuring high-quality video compression.
Battery Type: Powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, providing efficient energy use.
Storage Compatibility: Compatible with SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards for expanded storage options.
Flash: Built-in flash for improved low-light and nighttime photography.
Weight: Weighs approximately 6.7 ounces (190 grams) for a lightweight, portable design.
Dimensions: Measures 4.3 inches x 2.5 inches x 1.2 inches, making it compact and easy to carry.
Connectivity: USB and HDMI ports for easy file transfer and connectivity to external devices.
Camera Modes: Includes various shooting modes, such as auto, scene, and underwater modes for diverse photography scenarios.

FAQ

The Nikon COOLPIX AW100 is waterproof up to 33 feet (10 meters), making it suitable for underwater photography and shallow water activities like snorkeling.

Yes, this rugged digital camera is designed with simplicity in mind. Its user-friendly interface and automatic shooting modes make it an excellent choice for casual photographers or beginners who want to take great photos without a steep learning curve.

Many users have noted that the autofocus can be slow in low light environments. While it performs well in most standard lighting, if you're shooting in darker conditions, the focus may take a little longer than expected.

Yes, the Nikon COOLPIX AW100 is freezeproof, which means it can handle temperatures as low as 14°F (-10°C). This makes it an excellent choice for winter sports or cold-weather activities.

The Nikon COOLPIX AW100's battery life is decent for an adventure camera, providing around 300 shots per charge, depending on usage. However, continuous video recording or using GPS features can drain the battery faster.

The image quality is generally good, with a 16MP sensor offering sharp and clear images. However, some users have pointed out that in very low-light conditions, the quality may not be as high as some other cameras in a similar price range.

This device is compatible with SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards. It's recommended to use high-speed cards for optimal performance, especially when recording Full HD video.

Yes, the built-in GPS allows you to geotag your photos with location data, which is especially useful for documenting trips to remote or outdoor locations. Just ensure that the GPS is enabled when you take the photo.

The Nikon COOLPIX AW100 supports continuous shooting at up to 7.1 frames per second. This feature is useful for capturing fast-moving subjects, but users have noted that the performance can vary based on the lighting conditions.

Yes, the camera is well-suited for underwater photography up to 33 feet (10 meters). Many users find it ideal for snorkeling and shallow diving, as it captures clear, vibrant images even in water.