Nikon Coolpix L810 Pro Reviews

There's no denying that, on specification, the Nikon COOLPIX L810 represents great value for money and is, on that alone, the type of camera that didn't exist a few years ago. If you're a beginner starting out in photography that happy for the camera to do the work for you and for whom image quality and performance isn't of paramount importance, then the COOLPIX L810 could well be for you. However, it's far from perfect. The lack of Nikon's more high-end processing tools means that it's a clunky camera to use and one that often leaves the photographer waiting for the next shot. There are also issue with image quality, while the lack of advanced settings means the L810 won't suit the more advanced shooter.

The Nikon COOLPIX L810 is a no-frills superzoom with a long range, point-and-shoot functionality and a budget price tag. For those looking for a longer range than is currently available from compact super-zooms, and who aren't interested in manual exposure control or fancy filters and effects, it's an attractive proposition. It's not without its faults though. It's slow to start-up, the autofocus is hesitant in anything other than optimal lighting and it takes a long while to start rolling when you press the movie record button. These hold it back from earning a recommended rating, but it has two things going for it that you won't easily find elsewhere: its 22.5mm super-wide angle and very low price. If zoom range is your number one priority and you can live without the bells and whistles, it might just be what you're looking for.

Every manufacturer releases a megazoom model to entice certain photographers into buying their brand. The Nikon Coolpix L810 would suit the outdoor rambler who likes to take pictures of wildlife without disturbing them. Alternatively the large zoom is useful for the sloth in all of us that simply can't be bothered to walk there. Whatever your persuasion, the long zoom of the Nikon Coolpix L810 will deliver. The camera looks attractive. We had the bronze model which looks a bit more brown but it's a lovely colour nonetheless. Build quality isn't the best but it's to be expected at this price point.

In terms of finding a fit with an audience, the Nikon Coolpix L810 is most aptly suited to holidaying families wanting a 'one lens does it all' option, with the bonus of being able to zoom back and forth, if a little sluggishly, to catch young tearaways careering around. Or the casual snapper on a budget who can appreciate the benefit of a point-and-shoot camera with a bit of poke in the lens department. Sure, the optic here can't be swapped, as it could be on a DSLR that the L810 closely resembles in looks and - to a lesser extent - layout. But with a focal range this expansive, the Nikon Coolpix L810's would-be audience won't feel they are missing out. The Coolpix L810 is a superzoom for beginners, so photo enthusiasts wanting hands-on control should look elsewhere. Apart from the obvious flexibility afforded by the broad focal range, we're pretty much limited to pointing and shooting. But with consistent results from shot to shot there won't be many complainants among those valuing ease of use as highly as value for money.

The Nikon Coolpix L810 is not a camera I would easily recommend. If you simply must have a 26x zoom lens and AA batteries for power, it's OK, especially for its price. However, you may want to seek out the older L120 if it's still available or check out the competing Fujifilm FinePix S4200.

A noisy sensor and unreliable autofocus undermine some impressive specifications

There's no doubting the L810 has a handy amount of optical zoom and is capable of taking a decent picture, but it isn't great if you are looking for a camera capable of shooting fast moving pictures, such as sports. Focusing just isn't quick enough and it is sluggish between shots, not even continuous shooting mode is going to help. But if you are looking to take pictures of landscapes and other static objects and are looking for some extra zoom, the L810 is one to consider.