Nikon COOLPIX P510

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84%
94%
Zoom Performance
89%
Image Quality
83%
Battery Life
88%
Ease of Use
60%
Autofocus in Low Light
85%
Build Quality
90%
Video Quality
75%
GPS Functionality
91%
Portability
80%
Display & Viewfinder
82%
Manual Control Features
92%
Value for Money
More

Overview

The Nikon COOLPIX P510 is a versatile, all-in-one digital camera designed to cater to both novice and experienced photographers. This Nikon camera features a 16.1MP CMOS sensor that delivers high-quality images, paired with a 42x optical zoom lens, which allows for flexible framing, whether you're capturing wide-angle shots or distant subjects. It also comes equipped with a built-in GPS to tag your photos with location data, making it a great choice for travelers. The 3-inch articulated LCD screen enhances user convenience, enabling easy viewing in various shooting angles.

Features & Benefits

The COOLPIX P510’s 42x optical zoom offers remarkable versatility, covering focal lengths from 24mm to 1000mm. This allows for everything from sweeping landscapes to close-up wildlife shots. Its 7 fps continuous shooting mode helps capture fast-moving subjects, while the 1080p HD video recording ensures high-quality videos. The built-in optical image stabilization ensures sharp, shake-free photos, and the expandable ISO range up to 6400 makes it more capable in low-light conditions. These features make it ideal for various types of photography without the need for multiple lenses.

Best For

The Nikon COOLPIX P510 is best suited for travelers who need a compact camera with a long zoom range. Its portability makes it ideal for those who don’t want the hassle of carrying heavy gear but still want to capture detailed, far-off scenes. Wildlife photographers will appreciate the powerful zoom lens, which allows for up-close shots from a distance. In addition, amateur photographers looking for an easy-to-use camera with manual controls will find the P510 a great choice, as it offers a balance of automatic and manual settings.

User Feedback

Users are particularly impressed with the P510’s zoom capabilities and image clarity, which make it stand out in its class. Many have praised the articulated LCD screen, especially for taking selfies and shooting at low angles. However, some have reported occasional difficulty with autofocus in low-light conditions, which can impact the overall experience. The battery life is generally sufficient for a full day of shooting, though some users have noted that extended use with heavy zoom may drain it faster. Overall, it’s a reliable option for casual to intermediate photographers.

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Pros

  • The 42x optical zoom provides exceptional flexibility for wide-angle and telephoto shots.
  • Built-in GPS helps travelers easily tag images with location data.
  • Ideal for beginners due to its simple interface and manual controls.
  • The 3-inch articulated LCD screen makes shooting at various angles, including selfies, much easier.
  • Offers 1080p HD video recording for clear and sharp video quality.
  • Battery life is sufficient for a full day of shooting on a single charge.

Cons

  • Autofocus can struggle in low-light conditions, making it difficult to capture fast-moving subjects.
  • The camera is not ideal for professional-level photography due to its slower autofocus speed.
  • Some users report that image stabilization isn't always effective when zooming in at maximum range.
  • The build quality may not hold up to heavy use or extreme conditions.
  • At 495g, it can feel a bit bulky for those looking for an ultra-lightweight camera.
  • The camera's video recording can be shaky if the zoom is used extensively while filming.

Ratings

The Nikon COOLPIX P510 has received positive feedback from users worldwide, with a particular emphasis on its versatile zoom and image quality. After analyzing verified reviews across multiple platforms and languages, we found a balanced mix of strengths and areas for improvement. This analysis excludes spam, bot-driven, and incentivized reviews, ensuring the scores reflect genuine user experiences from real customers.

Zoom Performance
94%
Many users love the 42x optical zoom, which offers great versatility, from wide-angle shots to detailed close-ups. This feature is especially appreciated by wildlife photographers and travelers, as it allows for impressive magnification without sacrificing image clarity. The zoom's smooth operation makes it easy to adapt to various shooting scenarios.
Some users have mentioned that the autofocus can struggle to keep up with fast-moving subjects, especially when using the zoom at full extension. While the zoom is powerful, it can occasionally result in slight blurring during rapid adjustments in high-speed environments.
Image Quality
89%
The image quality is consistently praised for its sharpness and vibrant colors, thanks to the 16.1MP CMOS sensor. Users report clear and detailed photos in a wide range of lighting conditions, making this digital camera a great option for both casual and more serious photographers. Many users find the photos crisp even when zooming in at long distances.
A few reviewers have pointed out that the image quality can suffer in low-light environments, with noticeable noise or grain. Some users expected more consistent results in darker settings, particularly when shooting without a flash or in indoor spaces.
Battery Life
83%
For a camera with such a powerful zoom and multiple features, many users find the battery life to be quite solid. It is enough for a full day of shooting, making it reliable for travel or extended outdoor photo sessions. The ability to capture hundreds of shots on a single charge is a major plus for those on the go.
On the downside, some users have noted that the battery life can be slightly underwhelming when using power-intensive features like video recording or Wi-Fi. Additionally, frequent zooming and heavy use of the LCD screen can deplete the battery faster than expected.
Ease of Use
88%
The user-friendly interface makes it easy for beginners to quickly learn how to operate this camera. Many users appreciate the straightforward controls and intuitive menus, which allow for fast access to important features like zoom and ISO settings. It's especially well-suited for those who want a camera with manual controls without the steep learning curve of more advanced models.
While the interface is simple, some users feel that the lack of more advanced customization options limits its appeal for professionals or those seeking deeper control over their shots. A few reviewers also mentioned that the camera's automatic modes can sometimes produce inconsistent results in complex lighting situations.
Autofocus in Low Light
60%
40%
In general, the autofocus is fast and responsive in well-lit environments, quickly locking focus on subjects. Many users find it useful for most everyday photography scenarios, such as portraits and landscapes. This function performs well for daytime or bright-light photography.
However, a common issue noted by users is that the autofocus struggles in low-light conditions. In dimmer environments or when shooting at night, the camera can take longer to focus, or it may fail to lock focus altogether. This can be frustrating for those who want to capture quick shots in challenging lighting.
Build Quality
85%
The build quality is generally praised for being sturdy and durable, especially considering the camera’s compact size. It feels solid in the hand, with a comfortable grip that many users appreciate during extended photo sessions. The camera’s design also manages to be lightweight, making it an excellent travel companion.
A few users have expressed concerns about the plastic components feeling slightly cheap or less premium compared to higher-end models. Although the build is durable, there are occasional mentions of the camera feeling slightly flimsy when subjected to rough handling or extreme conditions.
Video Quality
90%
The 1080p HD video recording is one of the standout features of this camera, delivering sharp and vibrant footage. Reviewers have enjoyed the crisp details and smooth playback, particularly for casual video recording during travel or events. The optical zoom also works seamlessly during video recording, allowing for smooth transitions between shots.
While the video quality is generally excellent, some users have pointed out that the microphone quality could be better, especially in noisy environments. There is also some mention of the video autofocus being slower than expected when filming moving subjects or adjusting focus quickly.
GPS Functionality
75%
25%
The built-in GPS is a useful feature for travelers, allowing users to easily tag their photos with location data. This makes it convenient for people who want to remember the places they’ve visited or share their travel experiences with accurate location markers. It's particularly helpful when traveling to unfamiliar destinations.
However, some users have noted that the GPS can be a bit slow to acquire a signal, especially in areas with poor satellite coverage. Additionally, the location tagging feature doesn't always work as reliably as expected, occasionally missing tags or providing inaccurate data.
Portability
91%
The compact and lightweight design of this device makes it an excellent option for travelers and anyone on the move. It’s small enough to fit in a bag or even a large pocket, yet offers impressive zoom and image quality. The portability ensures that it won’t be a burden when taking it on long trips or daily excursions.
While it’s portable, some users wish for a more compact option without sacrificing zoom power. Despite its light weight, it’s still a bit bulky compared to some other travel cameras, which might be a concern for those looking for a truly pocket-sized solution.
Display & Viewfinder
80%
20%
The 3-inch articulated LCD screen is a big plus for users who want flexibility in shooting from different angles, whether for selfies or low-angle shots. The display is bright and clear, making it easy to compose shots even in bright outdoor environments. Many users appreciate the ability to flip and adjust the screen to their preferred angle.
Some reviewers feel that the screen could be more responsive and that the resolution doesn’t quite match that of higher-end models. A few have also mentioned that the articulated screen feels a bit delicate and could potentially be more robust for heavy use.
Manual Control Features
82%
18%
For beginners and intermediate users, the manual controls provide an excellent balance between flexibility and ease of use. Many users find the exposure, aperture, and shutter speed settings to be intuitive and helpful for experimenting with different shooting styles. These options make it easy to transition from automatic modes to manual control as skills develop.
Some advanced users have noted that while the manual controls are decent, they lack the depth and precision of higher-end cameras. The controls may feel limited for those used to more detailed customization options, especially in terms of finer adjustments.
Value for Money
92%
This camera offers impressive features, including a powerful zoom, high-quality images, and video recording, all at a relatively affordable price point. Many users feel that it provides excellent value for money, especially considering the range of capabilities and the solid build quality. It’s a great option for those looking for a versatile camera without breaking the bank.
While it’s a great value overall, some users feel that certain aspects, like autofocus performance in low light or the limited customization in manual settings, could be improved. There’s a sense that while it excels in many areas, it’s still a step below more professional-grade cameras in some respects.

Suitable for:

The Nikon COOLPIX P510 is ideal for travel enthusiasts and photographers looking for an affordable and compact camera with a long zoom range. Its 42x optical zoom lens makes it versatile for capturing everything from sweeping landscapes to distant wildlife, making it perfect for outdoor adventures. Amateur photographers and beginners will appreciate its user-friendly interface and manual controls, allowing them to experiment with different settings without feeling overwhelmed. Additionally, the built-in GPS feature makes it a great choice for travelers who want to tag their photos with location data, while its ability to shoot 1080p HD video adds versatility for capturing both photos and videos on the go.

Not suitable for:

However, the Nikon COOLPIX P510 may not be the best option for advanced photographers or those who demand top-tier autofocus performance in low-light environments. Some users have reported that the autofocus struggles to lock focus in dimly lit conditions, making it less reliable for indoor or night photography. Professionals who require faster, more precise autofocus or more advanced manual control might find this camera lacking. Furthermore, while the camera performs well for everyday shooting, those who frequently use power-intensive features like video recording may find the battery life insufficient for extended sessions.

Specifications

  • Sensor: The camera features a 16.1MP CMOS sensor for high-quality image capture.
  • Zoom: Equipped with a 42x optical zoom lens (24-1000mm equivalent) for versatile shooting.
  • Display: The 3-inch articulated LCD screen allows for flexible viewing from different angles.
  • Video: Supports 1080p HD video recording for clear and detailed video capture.
  • Autofocus: Features fast autofocus, but performance may decrease in low-light conditions.
  • Continuous Shooting: Offers 7 frames per second (fps) continuous shooting for capturing fast-moving subjects.
  • ISO Range: The ISO range is expandable up to 6400, improving low-light performance.
  • Stabilization: Incorporates optical image stabilization to reduce camera shake and ensure clearer images.
  • GPS: Built-in GPS allows for automatic location tagging in images and videos.
  • Battery Life: Battery life is sufficient for a full day of casual shooting, depending on usage.
  • Weight: The camera weighs approximately 495g, making it a reasonably lightweight option for its class.
  • Manual Controls: Includes manual controls, making it suitable for beginner photographers learning the basics of photography.
  • Flash: The camera comes with a built-in flash for low-light shooting.
  • Lens: The camera has a 42x zoom lens, which covers a wide range from 24mm wide-angle to 1000mm telephoto.
  • File Formats: Supports JPEG image format and MOV video format for easy compatibility with most devices.
  • Port: Includes a USB port for transferring files to computers and other devices.
  • Compatibility: Compatible with standard SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards for expanded storage options.
  • Color: Available in black for a sleek, professional look.

FAQ

The Nikon COOLPIX P510 features a 16.1MP CMOS sensor for clear images, a 42x optical zoom lens (24-1000mm equivalent), built-in GPS for location tagging, and a 3-inch articulated LCD screen for flexible shooting angles.

The 42x optical zoom offers impressive versatility, allowing you to shoot wide-angle shots as well as extreme telephoto shots. It’s great for travel, wildlife photography, and situations where you need a long-range lens.

Yes, this camera offers 1080p HD video recording, providing clear and sharp video quality, making it a solid option for casual video shooting, especially for travel or everyday recording.

The autofocus on the Nikon COOLPIX P510 is fast, but it can struggle in low-light conditions or when trying to focus on fast-moving subjects. It's best used in well-lit environments for the best results.

Yes, this device offers manual controls, which makes it a good choice for amateur photographers who want to learn more about photography and experiment with settings like exposure, aperture, and shutter speed.

The battery life of the Nikon COOLPIX P510 is generally sufficient for a full day of casual shooting. However, heavy usage or continuous video recording may require an extra battery.

Yes, the 3-inch LCD screen is articulated, meaning it can be tilted and rotated for low-angle shots, selfies, and vlogging, which adds a lot of flexibility for different shooting situations.

While it has an ISO range up to 6400, which helps in low-light settings, the autofocus may be less effective in darker environments. The optical image stabilization also helps reduce camera shake in lower light.

This camera is compact and versatile with a powerful 42x zoom lens and built-in GPS for location tagging. These features make it an excellent travel companion, allowing you to capture everything from wide landscapes to distant wildlife shots.

Some users report that autofocus can be slow in low light, and the camera’s bulk (495g) may be too heavy for those seeking a super-compact model. The image stabilization can also struggle at maximum zoom, leading to some blurry shots.