Nikon COOLPIX AW100 Pro Reviews

As a first effort, the Nikon Coolpix AW100 is a decent rugged compact if you're doing most of your shooting on land. The dark lens and average low-light photo quality are a better match for hiking or snow sports or shooting in shallow waters in full sun, but not diving, regardless of its waterproof rating. The GPS performance in my review camera was solid and turning it on and off is easier than in most competing rugged compacts. Photo and video quality are very good if you have a lot of light and you don't need large prints or mind doing a little sharpening after you shoot. If it were still priced at $379, I'd pass, but it's currently selling for less than $300, which makes it easier to recommend for its rugged specs and features.

I loved using the Nikon Coolpix AW100 and only reluctantly returned it after Nikon sent me a second late notice. It’s a really wonderful outdoor point-and-shoot – rugged, reliable and quick – all the things you want from a camera you take along for mountain biking, skiing and other outdoor activities. And although the image quality isn’t as good as a non-waterproof point-and-shoot camera, it’s the best I’ve seen so far from a rugged, compact camera and it’s more than good enough for 8.5×11-inch and maybe even 11×14-inch prints. Under the right circumstances, I’d even submit AW100 photos for magazine publication. Sometimes availability makes all the difference in the world for a good photo. In the weather, in the water, and after you drop it, the Nikon AW100 will be there when you need it.

The Nikon AW100 offers a tough build that will keep shooting in all conditions. It will survive water down to a depth 10m, drops from 1.5m and temperatures down to -10 degrees celcius, meaning you're well protected whether on the beach or from that pint glass of wine that always gets knocked over. But the image quality and the results we've achieved don't really speak volumes for the Coolpix AW100. It's managed to get the shots, but along the way, we've had to delete a large number of over-exposed pictures as it struggles with bright conditions. However, there are a huge range of features on offer in the AW100, from the GPS to the additional accessory filters you can attach to the front using an adapter. Perhaps not the most exciting tough camera on the market and it is priced towards the top end. But if you can get it at a good price, it will survive the vigour of the outdoors life.

For those leading an adventurous life wishing to record it using a camera that can keep up as well as hold up, the Nikon Coolpix AW100 is a fine choice. What it is lacking in the noise-to-signal department, in somewhat flat colors and battery retention it makes up for with convenience, ease-of-use, versatility and overall fun.

Consider the Nikon AW100 if you're an outdoors type that can make use of the camera's rugged design. It's waterproof and shockproof, yet it doesn't really compromise when it comes to usability. It's picture quality is also clear and vibrant for the most part, although it did sometimes struggle to get the exposure right when in easy mode.

The Nikon Coolpix AW100 is a rugged point-and-shoot camera that, while a bit on the pricey side, captures sharp images and can take quite a beating without a hiccup.

Looking much like a regular digital camera, the new Nikon Coolpix AW100 can withstand almost everything that life can throw at it, underwater, in the cold, from a moderate height, although it's not dust- or crush-proof like some rivals. The inclusion of a suite of sophisticated GPS features, which doesn't affect battery-life too adversely, and the innovative Action Control feature makes the AW100 a great travel companion. Sure, just like a regular digital camera, it may not produce the best images and it does cost substantially more than most compacts, but the AW100 is still an assured first stab at an all-action model.

There are always compromises to be made with image quality when you're looking for the convenience of a camera that you can play rough with. While the Nikon Coolpix AW100 has its issues, it is capable of delivering colourful, attractive images for its class.

The Coolpix AW100 is remarkably good for Nikon's first venture into the rugged camera market. Its main strength is its range of features. Not only is is waterproof, shockproof and freezeproof, it comes with built-in GPS, full 1080p HD video recording and much more. Although one of the more expensive rugged cameras available, the camera produces good images and videos and therefore takes its place in our Top 7 Cameras For Active Photographers.