Nikon Coolpix S9100 Review: Is This the Right Camera for You?Keywords: Nikon Coolpix S9100, camera review, features, image quality, low light performance

Are you in the market for a new camera and considering the Nikon Coolpix S9100? This camera boasts impressive features such as a 12.1 megapixel sensor, 18x zoom lens, and full HD video recording. But is it worth the investment? Read on for a comprehensive review of the Nikon Coolpix S9100's image quality, low light performance, and other major features.

Written by Victor Chan | Updated: Mon May 01 2023

Nikon Coolpix S9100 article cover photo

Key Features

Jul 19 2011

Announced

12 megapixels

Resolution

BrandNikon
Sensor Type1/2.3-inch
SensorBSI-CMOS
Weight214g
MSRP$329USD

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Overview of the Coolpix S9100

When it comes to purchasing a new camera, there are countless options on the market. The Nikon Coolpix S9100 is one such camera that promises exceptional image quality and impressive features. But with so many cameras to choose from, how can you know if this is the right one for you? In this review, we'll take a closer look at the Nikon Coolpix S9100's key features and performance to help you make an informed decision about whether this camera is right for your needs.

Nikon Coolpix S9100 Pros and Cons

Now, we will look more closely at our review of the Nikon Coolpix S9100 camera. We will see what it can do and compare it to other cameras like it. We will tell you what's good about it and what's not so good. This way, you'll know if it's the camera for you!

Pros

1. High resolution
12.1 megapixels2. Wide-angle lens
18x optical zoom3. Compact size
fits in pockets/bags easily4. Triple image stabilization
reduces blur5. HD video
records 1080p Full HD video6. Fast autofocus
captures moments instantly7. Affordable price
budget-friendly option8. Easy to use
beginner-friendly interface9. Long battery life
up to 300 shots per charge10. GPS function
tracks location of photos

Cons

1. No RAW format
limits editing capabilities2. Small screen
3-inch screen size may be too small for some3. Limited manual controls
not ideal for experienced photographers4. Not weather-sealed
not suitable for harsh weather conditions5. No viewfinder
may be inconvenient for some users6. No hot shoe
not compatible with external flashes7. Limited low light performance
not ideal for nighttime photography8. Slow burst mode
only captures up to 1.9 fps9. No touch screen
may be less intuitive for some users10. No Wi-Fi connectivity
no wireless sharing of photos.

Build and Construction

Body and dimensions

Nikon Coolpix S9100

Weather sealed
Dimensions105 x 62 x 35mm
Weight214g
Thickness35mm
Weight
Min
Avg
This
Max
Thickness
Min
Avg
This
Max

Weather Sealing

The Nikon Coolpix S9100 is not sealed against water and dust, so it's important to be careful when using it in such conditions. If you often shoot in environments with water or dust, it's recommended to check out another camera with weather sealing.

Design and Handling

Main design features

View FinderNone
Screen TypeFixed Type
Screen Resolution921k dots
Body typeCompact

Suitable for:

PhotographyAbove Avg.
VideographyAbove Avg.
TravelAbove Avg.

LCD Screen

This camera has a fixed type 3.00" screen, with a display resolution of 921k dots. This makes the Nikon Coolpix S9100 not as suitable for those looking for a vlogging camera as you cannot view yourself while shooting selfies easily. Unfortunately, the camera does not have a touch screen, which may make it less user-friendly.

Viewfinder

Nikon Coolpix S9100 does not include a viewfinder. The lack of a viewfinder on the Coolpix S9100 camera may make it less suitable for outdoor photography in bright conditions.

Image Quality

Nikon Coolpix S9100 has a 12MP sized BSI-CMOS sensor. You can shoot at maximum resolution of 12 pixels. Nikon Coolpix S9100 has a native ISO range of 160 - 3200 which can be boosted to null - null.

Key Features

Jul 19 2011

Announced

160 - 3200

ISO Range

Sensor1/2.3-inch
Extended ISOnull - null
Max resolution4000 x 3000 pixels

DXO Sensor Scores

Overall

not tested

Color Depth

not tested

Dynamic Range

not tested

Low Light ISO

not tested

DXO mark sensor scores

The DXOmark rankings indicate that the Nikon Coolpix S9100 camera has excellent color depth performance, which refers to the number of colors the sensor can distinguish. Additionally, its dynamic range is also excellent, allowing it to retain high amounts of details in both bright and dark areas of a scene. The camera's low light ISO performance is excellent, which is an important factor to consider if you plan to use it in dimly lit indoor environments or at night. Overall the image quality of the Coolpix S9100 is excellent

Crop Factor

Camera crop factor (or focal length multiplier) refers to how a camera's sensor size affects the apparent field of view of a lens. Crop factor is determined by comparing the size of a camera's sensor to that of a full-frame sensor, which is a standard reference size for camera sensors.

Size comparison

Medium FormatFull FrameAPS-C (Sony, Nikon)

Crop factor calculator

Crop factor

1x

Full frame equivalent

24mm

This camera: 1/2.3-inch

24mm

850100150200

Connectivity, storage, battery

StorageSD/SDHC/SDXC
Battery Life270 shots
Battery ModelEN-EL12
HDMI
USD
Wireless Connectivity

Storage

The Nikon Coolpix S9100 supports SD/SDHC/SDXC with 1 slots for storage. This may suffice for everyday use. However, for professional applications such as wedding photography, it is not recommended as a memory card malfunction could lead to the loss of all footage.

Battery

The Nikon Coolpix S9100 uses the EN-EL12 model of battery pack. This is rated for 270 shots shots which is high. If you intend to take photos or record videos for an extended period, it might be a good idea to bring along additional batteries.

Photography Features

Flash

The Nikon Coolpix S9100 has built in flash which is great for event photography and in low light situations. However it lacks an external flash shoe, which limits you to using the built-in flash.

Shutter

The Nikon Coolpix S9100 boasts a maximum mechanical shutter speed of 1/2000s, which is ideal for shooting fast-moving subjects in bright environments, such as in sports photography. Faster shutter speeds enable you to freeze the action and capture every detail, making it easier to get the perfect shot.

With a continuous mechanical shutter speed of n/a or an electronic shutter speed of n/a, this camera is not capable of capturing the perfect moment more easily, making it not as suited for wedding, sports, and wildlife photography. Higher shutter speeds make it easier to capture fast-paced action, ensuring that you never miss the perfect shot.

Autofocus

The Nikon Coolpix S9100 includes contrast detection autofocus (AF), with 9 number of focus points.

While contrast detection is generally more accurate and precise, phase detection autofocus is faster and more effective in most situations, particularly when photographing moving subjects.

Phase detection autofocus works by dividing the incoming light into pairs and then analyzing how they intersect on the camera's sensor. This method allows the camera to determine not only if a subject is in focus but also the direction and distance needed to adjust the focus to achieve perfect sharpness.

On the other hand, contrast detection autofocus works by analyzing the contrast of an image and adjusting the focus until the highest contrast is detected. While this method is very accurate, it can be slow, especially in low light conditions or when photographing moving subjects.

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FAQ

What is the sensor size of the Nikon Coolpix S9100?

The Nikon Coolpix S9100 features a BSI-CMOS sensor

Is the Nikon Coolpix S9100 weather sealed?

No the Coolpix S9100 does not have weather sealing.

When was the Nikon Coolpix S9100 announced?

The Nikon Coolpix S9100 was announced on Jul 19 2011

Does the Nikon Coolpix S9100 have in-body image stabilization?

Yes the Coolpix S9100 does have in-body image stabilization that can compensate for camera shake, making it easier to shoot handheld in low light conditions.

What is the ISO range of the Nikon Coolpix S9100?

The Coolpix S9100 has a native ISO range of 160-3200, which can be expanded to ISO null-null for even greater sensitivity in low light conditions.

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