Unlocking Excellence: Nikon Coolpix S9500 Review

Learn about the features, performance, and versatility of the Nikon Coolpix S9500 in this comprehensive review. Discover why this camera is an excellent choice for capturing outstanding photos and videos for social media, blogging, or travel.

Written by Victor Chan | Updated: Mon May 01 2023

Nikon Coolpix S9500 article cover photo

Key Features

Jan 29 2013

Announced

18 megapixels

Resolution

BrandNikon
Sensor Type1/2.3-inch
SensorBSI-CMOS
Weight205g
MSRP$349USD

Other similar cameras

Nikon Coolpix S3500 thumbnail

Nikon Coolpix S3500

Released Feb 21 2013 | 20MP resolution

Nikon Coolpix S6500 thumbnail

Nikon Coolpix S6500

Released Jan 08 2013 | 16MP resolution

Nikon Coolpix S5200 thumbnail

Nikon Coolpix S5200

Released Jan 29 2013 | 16MP resolution

Overview of the Coolpix S9500

When it comes to photography, Nikon is an established brand that has been setting standards in the industry for years. The Nikon Coolpix S9500 is one of the company's most popular and sought-after cameras, thanks to its advanced features and outstanding performance. In this review, we will take a closer look at the features and benefits of the Nikon Coolpix S9500, and analyze why it is a great camera for photographers and video creators alike. Whether you're a blogger, social media enthusiast, or avid traveler, the Nikon Coolpix S9500 has the potential to unlock your creativity and capture stunning images that will make you stand out from the crowd. Let's dive in!

Nikon Coolpix S9500 Pros and Cons

Now, we will look more closely at our review of the Nikon Coolpix S9500 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

High resolution sensor produces sharp, detailed images
Powerful zoom lens (22x optical zoom) allows for versatile compositions
Wi-Fi connectivity enables easy sharing and remote control
GPS feature tags photos with location data for organization and tracking
Sleek, compact design makes it easy to carry around

Cons

Limited low light performance due to small sensor size
Image quality can suffer at high ISO settings
Slow autofocus in certain conditions, such as low light or when zoomed in
No manual control options for advanced photographers
Limited battery life (around 200 shots per charge)

Build and Construction

Body and dimensions

Nikon Coolpix S9500

Weather sealed
Dimensions110 x 60 x 31mm
Weight205g
Thickness31mm
Weight
Min
Avg
This
Max
Thickness
Min
Avg
This
Max

Weather Sealing

The Nikon Coolpix S9500 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 Resolution614k 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 614k dots. This makes the Nikon Coolpix S9500 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 S9500 does not include a viewfinder. The lack of a viewfinder on the Coolpix S9500 camera may make it less suitable for outdoor photography in bright conditions.

Image Quality

Nikon Coolpix S9500 has a 18MP sized BSI-CMOS sensor. You can shoot at maximum resolution of 18 pixels. Nikon Coolpix S9500 has a native ISO range of 125 - 1600 which can be boosted to null - null.

Key Features

Jan 29 2013

Announced

125 - 1600

ISO Range

Sensor1/2.3-inch
Extended ISOnull - null
Max resolution4896 x 3672 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 S9500 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 S9500 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 Life230 shots
Battery ModelEN-EL12
HDMI
USD
Wireless Connectivity

Storage

The Nikon Coolpix S9500 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 S9500 uses the EN-EL12 model of battery pack. This is rated for 230 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 S9500 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 S9500 boasts a maximum mechanical shutter speed of 1/1500s, 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

Nikon Coolpix S9500 does not have autofocus (AF)

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.

View on Amazon

FAQ

What is the sensor size of the Nikon Coolpix S9500?

The Nikon Coolpix S9500 features a BSI-CMOS sensor

Is the Nikon Coolpix S9500 weather sealed?

No the Coolpix S9500 does not have weather sealing.

When was the Nikon Coolpix S9500 announced?

The Nikon Coolpix S9500 was announced on Jan 29 2013

Does the Nikon Coolpix S9500 have in-body image stabilization?

Yes the Coolpix S9500 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 S9500?

The Coolpix S9500 has a native ISO range of 125-1600, which can be expanded to ISO null-null for even greater sensitivity in low light conditions.

View on Amazon

Similar Camera Reviews

Nikon Coolpix S3500 article cover photo

Unleash Your Inner Photographer with the Nikon Coolpix S3500

Are you on the hunt for a camera that provides top-notch image quality at an affordable price? Look no further than the Nikon Coolpix S3500. Its slim body, impressive zooming capabilities, and easy-to-use features make it the perfect accessory for photography enthusiasts everywhere.

Nikon Coolpix S6500 article cover photo

Nikon Coolpix S6500 - A Compact Camera That Delivers Impressive Results

Looking for a camera that offers high-quality performance in a small, portable package? The Nikon Coolpix S6500 might be just what you need. With its impressive features and user-friendly design, this camera is perfect for both amateurs and professionals alike. In this blog post, we explore the different facets of the Nikon Coolpix S6500 and why it is the ideal camera for your next adventure.