Nikon Coolpix A
Nikon · Compact · 16.2 MP · APS-C · Full HD video

Score Breakdown
Scores combine our editorial testing with published lab data.
Independent Lab Scores
General | |
|---|---|
| Brand | Nikon |
| Model | Coolpix A |
Released ⓘRefers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2013 |
Announcement date ⓘRefers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | March 4, 2013 |
| Camera type | |
| Camera size | 111 x 64 x 40 mm |
| Camera weight | 299 g |
Optics50/100 | |
About the OpticsThe Nikon Coolpix A receives a score of 45/100 for its general specifications. Launched in 2013, this compact camera has dimensions of 111 x 64 x 40mm and weighs 299g or 0.66lbs. Looking at today’s market, the Coolpix A’s specifications are not as competitive as they were at the time of release. The camera’s size and weight are still reasonable for a compact camera, but its score reflects its dated technology and performance compared to newer models. Nikon Coolpix A Overview and OpticsThe Nikon Coolpix A receives a score of 50/100 for its optics. This camera features 16.2 megapixels, a shooting speed of 4 frames per second, and a CMOS sensor. It utilizes an Expeed 2 processor and has a DXOMARK sensor score of 80. The sensor size is APS-C, providing decent image quality. One limitation is the fixed lens mount, which means the lens cannot be changed. This can be restrictive for photographers who want to adapt their equipment for various situations. The camera also lacks image stabilization, which could lead to shaky images in some conditions. The aspect ratio of 3:2 is standard for most cameras. When compared to other cameras in today’s market, the Nikon Coolpix A has some limitations in its optics. However, it still delivers acceptable image quality for casual photographers. | |
Megapixels ⓘThe higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 16.2 MP050 |
Image resolution ⓘImage resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution. | 4928 x 3264 |
Sensor type ⓘThe camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality. | CMOS |
Sensor size ⓘThe sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. | 15.6 x 23.6 |
Sensor format ⓘRefers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. | |
Continuous shooting ⓘThe number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 4 fps045 |
Lens mount ⓘThe lens mount will tell you what type of lens range you can fit onto the camera body. Often the same camera company will have different lens ranges for different cameras. | Fixed |
Image processor ⓘThe image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card. | Expeed 2 |
Aspect ratio ⓘThe aspect ratio refers to the proportional difference between width and height. The most popular aspect ratios are 3:2 and 4:3. | |
Min ISO ⓘRefers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image. | 10030200 |
Max ISO ⓘRefers to the highest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Higher ISO is necessary for low-light situations or night photography, but higher ISOs often introduce grain or noise. | 64003003280000 |
Min ISO (expanded) ⓘExpanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary. | 10030200 |
Max ISO (expanded) ⓘExpanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary. | 256003003280000 |
Minimum shutter speed ⓘThe minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory. | 3044080 |
Max shutter speed ⓘThe maximum shutter speed tells you the length inside 1 second the camera will capture. These can sometimes be extended with accessories such as extra external batteries. | 200080032000 |
Autofocus points ⓘAutofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 00300 |
In-body stabilisation ⓘIn-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake. | No |
Viewfinder type ⓘThe viewfinder type is either electronic or optical. Electronic viewfinders will have a small screen in the viewfinder. Optical viewfinders will use prisms and mirrors to look through the lens. | Optical (optional) |
| Viewfinder dots | N/A |
Video43/100 | |
About the VideoThe Nikon Coolpix A scores a 43/100 in video capabilities. This camera offers Full HD video resolution with maximum dimensions of 1920 x 1080 and a maximum frame rate of 30fps. However, it does not include built-in time-lapse functionality. In today’s market, the Coolpix A’s video specifications fall short compared to other cameras. Many competitors offer 4K video resolution and higher frame rates, which provide smoother and more detailed footage. The lack of time-lapse functionality further limits the camera’s versatility for capturing creative video content. Considering these factors, the Nikon Coolpix A’s video capabilities are not as competitive as other options available. Potential buyers should weigh these limitations against their specific video needs when making a decision. | |
Video ⓘIndicates if this camera is capable of recording video. | |
Max video resolution ⓘThe best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video. | |
Max video format ⓘVideo resolution measured by the greatest number of pixels possible in each frame, width by height. A higher resolution means more detail or clarity in your video. | 1920 x 1080 |
Max video frame rate ⓘHow many frames per second your video will capture. Most cameras have options for multiple frame rates, depending on the resolution you shoot in. For a general video, 24p or 30p is the standard, but more serious filmmakers may need a higher frame rate for creative effect. | 30 fps |
Timelapse built in ⓘA built in time-lapse mode will allow continuous shooting throughout a prolonged period of time to be compressed into a sped up video. | No |
Video file format ⓘDifferent cameras can record in various video file formats. The File format you record in can impact how you edit and use the files. | MOV |
Features41/100 | |
About the FeaturesThe Nikon Coolpix A’s feature score sits at 41/100. This score reflects the camera’s abilities in various aspects, such as screen size, resolution, and connectivity options. The Coolpix A boasts a 3-inch screen with a resolution of 921,000 dots. However, it does not include a touchscreen, a feature commonly found in many modern cameras. The camera does have a flip screen, which provides flexibility when composing shots from different angles. In terms of connectivity, the Nikon Coolpix A offers WIFI capabilities, allowing for easy sharing and transfer of images. Unfortunately, it lacks both GPS and Bluetooth features, which could limit its appeal for some users. Considering these specifications, the Nikon Coolpix A’s features are somewhat lacking when compared to other cameras in today’s market. While its screen size and resolution are respectable, the absence of a touchscreen, GPS, and Bluetooth may be a drawback for potential buyers. | |
Builtin flash ⓘA built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it. | |
External flash ⓘExternal flashes are often connected through a hot shoe at the top of a camera, or a cable at the side of the camera. | |
GPS ⓘGPS features in a camera will include location metadata to each of your photographs. | No |
Weather sealing ⓘWeather sealing capabilities will give you more confidence when shooting in unfavourable conditions. | No |
| Screen type | LCD |
Touch screen ⓘTouchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons. | No |
| Screen size | 3" |
Screen dots ⓘScreen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. | 9210001150001500000 |
Flip screen ⓘA flip screen (or articulating screen) is a second screen which can flip out from the side or top of the camera. This rotating screen allows you more freedom to take photos at different angles. | |
Live view ⓘLive View feature allows you to see a continuous live video of what is being seen through your lens. | |
Wi-Fi ⓘBuilt-in Wi-Fi allows you to connect your camera and share images wirelessly. | |
Bluetooth ⓘBluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices. | No |
Storage & Battery13/100 | |
About the Storage & BatteryThe Nikon Coolpix A receives a storage and battery score of 13/100. This camera has a single memory card slot, which accepts SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards. In terms of battery life, the Coolpix A can capture 230 shots with its EN-EL20 battery. Unfortunately, this camera does not support USB charging. Comparing these specifications to other cameras on the market, the Coolpix A falls short in terms of storage options and battery life. Many modern cameras offer dual memory card slots and longer battery life, making the Coolpix A less competitive in this area. The lack of USB charging also limits its convenience for users who need to charge on-the-go. Considering the storage and battery capabilities of the Nikon Coolpix A, it appears that improvements could be made to better compete with other cameras on the market. While it may still be suitable for casual users, those seeking more advanced storage and battery options may want to explore alternative models. | |
| Memory card | SD / SDHC / SDXC |
| Dual memory card slots | No |
| Battery type | EN-EL20 |
Battery life ⓘApproximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 230 shots1505000 |
| USB charging | No |