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Posts Tagged ‘compacts’

Opinion: Enthusiast compacts have finally come of age

28 Feb

Last December I was looking to buy a camera for my mom to replace her aging Panasonic travel zoom. It didn’t take very good photos but, to be fair, you can’t expect miracles from a 30x zoom camera with a 1/2.3″ sensor. She listed a couple of must-haves: it should fit in a purse, have a decent amount of zoom and have photo quality that was better than what she had now. She didn’t want to deal with changing lenses and my dad wanted it to have a viewfinder, if possible.

Being somewhat knowledgeable in the digital camera field I knew that I needed to look at the 1″-type camera market first. Back in mid-December I had just a few options: the Canon PowerShot G3 X / G5 X / G7 X / G9 X, the Panasonic FZ1000 and the Sony RX100 and RX10 series. While quite a few of those cameras passed the ‘purse test’, none had focal lengths longer than 100mm equiv. For real zoom power there was only the Canon G3 X, Panasonic FZ1000 and Sony RX10, all of which were far, far too large. 

The RX100 III and IV meet the size and EVF requirements but are just too limited in terms of zoom. The Panasonic FZ1000 is my favorite enthusiast superzoom but is way too large for a purse.

Plan B was to find something in the middle: a slightly smaller sensor that had decent zoom, and my choice was Olympus’ Stylus 1s. It has solid image quality, well-designed controls, and a 10X zoom, making me think that I found just what I’d been looking for. Shortly after it arrived I did a quick FaceTime chat with the future recipient who thought it was too large for a purse, and I agreed, so back it went.

At this point I felt as if I’d struck out. Anything with a decent zoom was just too darn big, and pocket cameras just wouldn’t cut it.

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX90V ticked all of the boxes on my shopping list, except for one: image quality.

Not knowing what was coming out next (really!), I bit my tongue and bought a Sony Cyber-shot HX90V. It’s small, has a 30X zoom, a pop-up EVF (a la RX100 III/IV), flip-up LCD, and Wi-Fi. Sounds like the perfect gift, except for two rather important things. First, the sensor size is 1/2.3″, which is exactly what I was trying to avoid. Second, the lens is quite slow, with a maximum aperture range of F3.5-6.4. Thus, in low light, the camera will need to crank up the ISO, resulting in a big drop in image quality.

The hole in the market

What was missing in the 1″ sensor market was pretty obvious: something in-between the compact, short zooms and the giant superzooms. As anyone who has ever bought a piece of consumer electronics knows, your purchase is outdated as soon as it leaves the store. As luck would have it, the camera I’d been waiting for showed up on January 5th: the Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS100.

The Panasonic ZS100/TZ100 finds a middle ground between small/short zoom and huge/long zoom.

The ZS100 (known as the TZ100 in most countries) ticked nearly every box on my list. It’s compact, has a reasonable amount of zoom (10X, 25-250mm equiv.), and an EVF (though it’s not a great one). Seeing how it uses the same sensor as the FZ1000, photo quality and 4K video should both be very good. The only downside I can find is that the lens, with a maximum aperture range of F2.8-5.9, is pretty slow. At least image quality should hold up when it has to increase the ISO sensitivity in low light. 

Unfortunately, the ZS100 wasn’t set to ship until mid-March, so my mom was out of luck.

Where’s my wide-angle?

Still, there was one area of the 1″ camera market in which there was a void, and that was at the wide end. The Panasonic LX100 was really the only choice, but it’s considerably larger than what I was looking for.

The Nikon DL18-50 filled in the last gap in the 1″ enthusiast compact market with its 18-50mm equivalent lens.

Then, lo and behold, Nikon came running into the market with three new 1″ cameras (known as the DLs), which finally filled in that last gap. The camera that did so is the DL18-50 which, as its name implies, has an 18-50mm equivalent lens – easily the widest in this class. And it’s a fast one, with a maximum aperture range of F1.8-2.8. There are many other things going for it spec-wise; it has a 20.8MP sensor (likely from Nikon’s 1 J5 mirrorless camera), Hybrid AF system (the DL cameras are the only cameras in the 1″ category with this), tilting LCD, 4K video and a ‘SnapBridge’ Wi-Fi system that uses Bluetooth to maintain a constant connection with your phone. We haven’t tested it yet, but we’re really looking forward to it.

The two other DLs have the same guts, but have focal lengths that fit in with the competition. The DL24-85 slots in-between the Sony RX100 III/IV and Canon PowerShot G7 X I/II, while the DL24-500 is similar to the Canon G3 X and Panasonic FZ1000. 

Everyone wins

When I started my search for that Christmas gift, the enthusiast compact market was so limited that I ended up purchasing the very type of camera that I was trying to avoid in the first place. Had Christmas been postponed about four months, the ZS100 would’ve been in a box with “To Mom” on it. 

In the end, this year’s rapid growth in the enthusiast compact market didn’t help me personally. But there are now cameras for every situation, from wide-angle to super-telephoto. The enthusiast compact market has finally come of age, to the benefit of everyone. 

* The G7 X has since been replaced by a Mark II model which offers a faster processor, improved Raw shooting and battery life, and refined ergonomics.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Nikon covers all focal lengths with three ‘DL’ enthusiast compacts with 1″-type sensors

26 Feb

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Nikon is entering the 1″-type premium compact market in a big way, introducing three new models: the Nikon DL18-50, DL24-85 and DL-24-500. Between them, they cover pretty much every focal length. The ‘guts’ of all three ‘DL’ models are the same, in that they share a sensor, image processor, autofocus system and support for 4K video (with clean HDMI output, no less). Parts of the design, especially the control layout and font, strongly resemble that of Nikon’s 1-series mirrorless cameras.

Sensor-wise, the DLs use what is possibly the same 20.8MP 1″-type BSI CMOS sensor as Nikon’s J5 mirrorless camera. It’s paired with the company’s new EXPEED 6A image processor, which allows for a top ISO of 12800 and 4K/UHD video recording at 30p. All three cameras have ‘Dual Detect VR’, which combines data from the cameras’ angular velocity sensors and the scene itself to reduce shake. They also have fluorine coatings on their lenses to keep moisture and oil away. Each has a manual focus ring around the lens, as well.

They also have 3″ touch-enabled OLED displays, tilting on the 18-50 and 24-85 and fully articulating on the 24-500. Naturally, they all have Wi-Fi with NFC, plus Nikon’s ‘SnapBridge’ technology, which uses Bluetooth to maintain a connection between camera and phone, so there’s no need to re-pair. Battery life on all three DL models is rated at 290 shots/charge (per the CIPA standard).

One of the features that may set the DLs apart from the other 1″-type cameras is its Hybrid AF system, which combines 105 phase-detect with 171 contrast-detect points. This allows the camera to shoot at 20 fps with continuous autofocus, which is, by far, best-in-class (spec-wise). If you can live with single AF, then the DLs can shoot even faster: 60 fps.

Nikon DL18-50

The first camera is perhaps the most interesting, as it has the widest lens of any enthusiast compact on the market. That lens has an equivalent focal length of 18-50mm and a fast maximum aperture range of F1.8-2.8. The lens has a 3-stop ND filter and is Nikon’s first compact to have a Nano Crystal Coating, which reduces flare and ghosting. The lens has seven aperture blades and has a top shutter speed of 1/1600 sec (an electronic shutter, found on all three models, maxes out at 1/16000 sec). There is also built-in perspective correction, which is especially useful when shooting architecture.

The camera has full manual exposure control, Raw support, tilting touch OLED display and aforementioned 4K/30p support. The DL18-50 also supports an optional tilting OLED electronic viewfinder with 2.36M dots. The 18-50 is the only one of the camera cameras to lack a built-in flash, though like its siblings it does have a hot shoe.

Nikon DL24-85

The DL24-85 is very similar to its wider sibling, both inside and out. The main difference is its lens, which is a 24-85mm equiv. F1.8-2.8 model, though it lacks the Nano Crystal Coating. Its standout feature is the ability to take life-size, 1:1 macro photos, with a minimum focus distance of 3cm. Macro shooters can also take advantage of focus peaking and bracketing as well as manual priority AF. Again it includes a built-in ND filter.

Nikon DL24-500

For those seeking a long zoom model, there’s the DL24-500. As its name implies, it has a 24-500mm equiv. lens, with a max aperture range of F2.8-5.6. Unlike the other two models, the 24-500 has a fully articulating display and a built-in OLED viewfinder. It’s also the only of the DL models with a mic input jack, with support for Nikon’s ME-1 shotgun mic. 

All three cameras will be available in early summer with suggested retail prices of $ 649 (24-85), $ 849 (18-50), and $ 999 (24-500).

Press Release:

THE NIKON DL PREMIUM COMPACT SERIES: PUTTING POCKETABLE POWER AND LEGENDARY NIKKOR LENS PRECISION INTO THE HANDS OF PASSIONATE PHOTOGRAPHERS

Pairing a Large 1-Inch Sensor with Superior NIKKOR Lens Technology, Nikon’s New Compact DL24-85, DL18-50 and DL24-500 Will Help Capture Stunning Images and 4K UHD Video

MELVILLE, NY (Monday, February 22, 2016 at 11:01 P.M. EST) – Today, Nikon Inc. announced the new DL Series of premium compact cameras. These pocketable yet powerful imaging tools offer an elite level of imaging prowess that fits easily in one’s palm. Equipped with a variety of focal lengths optimized for different types of shooters, the DL24-85, DL18-50 and DL24-500 combine powerful NIKKOR optics with a large 20.8-megapixel (CX-format) 1-inch BSI CMOS sensor to produce stunning image quality and amazingly detailed images, even when shooting in low-light. Cameras in the new DL line will also feature powerful performance, with high-speed Autofocus (AF) and 20 frames-per-second (60 fps with fixed AF) continuous shooting capability for fast action moments, as well as 4K UHD video recording for users to tell their stories in new ways. Ergonomically designed and familiar for advanced users, all three cameras will utilize the new Nikon SnapBridge connectivity to make it easier than ever to shoot and share with ease.

“We recognize consumers’ desire for smaller cameras capable of outstanding image quality,” said Masahiro Horie, Director of Marketing and Planning, Nikon Inc. “With the new DL line, Nikon is proud to fuse legendary NIKKOR optics with the latest innovations in imaging to provide advanced photographers amazingly compact tools capable of capturing photos and video that even the most discerned professional would be proud of.”

The Nikon DL Series: Powerful Performance, Superior Optics

The new DL line of premium compact cameras packs innovative and powerful imaging technology into elegantly designed yet remarkably compact camera bodies, making it easier than ever to carry pure imaging prowess in the palm of one’s hand. All of these new cameras are designed with a 20.8-megapixel CX-format (1-inch) BSI CMOS sensor, which when combined with fast, high quality NIKKOR glass, help to create stunning image quality for stills or 4K UHD video. Working alongside the new sensor is the new EXPEED 6A image processor that allows for impressive noise reduction and powerful, fast performance, making it possible to capture stunning low-light street photography, beautiful portraits or spectacular landscapes with ease. 

For fleeting moments and fast-action, the DL line incorporates a high-speed hybrid autofocus (AF) system featuring 105 phase detect focus areas (with 171 focus points in contrast detect AF mode), as well as continuous shooting up to an incredible 20 fps, with capability to capture up to a blazing fast 60 fps with focus locked on the first frame. The DL series also features Dual Detect Optical VR technology to compensate for camera shake while handheld or at slower shutter speeds.

Continuing the impressive legacy of NIKKOR glass, each new DL camera features a unique lens design capable of amazing resolution and beautiful background blur (bokeh), with impressively fast apertures. The lens barrel also includes a manual focus ring, giving users enhanced control over focus on any subject.

Each NIKKOR lens is also equipped with a fluorine coating that helps repel dirt, water and oil, and also facilitates easy cleaning. For the first time in a Nikon compact camera, the DL18-50’s NIKKOR lens will utilize Nano Crystal Coat to help reduce ghost and flare, particularly useful when shooting at a wide-angle. With the best NIKKOR technologies now integrated into compact camera models, users will be able to capture phenomenal images with amazing detail time and time again. 

Control and Versatility

The DL24-85, DL18-50 and DL24-500 put creative control in the hands of each photographer and are all operated using the familiar Nikon DSLR menu design and an assortment of physical controls. The series also supports RAW (NEF) image capture, full PSAM manual controls and over 20 preset creative options, for use in both still and video shooting (including Picture Control, Creative mode, Multiple Exposure Lighten) to help challenge each user to expand their photographic horizons.

The DL line provides the tools to frame nearly every shot, with all three cameras sporting high-resolution 1,037k-dot OLED Touch displays. While the DL24-85 and DL18-50 allow for tilting, the DL24-500’s display provides full Vari-angle capability, vitally important when shooting from unique perspectives. Even further customization and control is possible utilizing the hot shoe/accessory shoe available on DL24-85 and DL18-50 models that allows for complete system expandability with the DF-E1 optional electronic viewfinder. The DL24-500 also sports a hot shoe and a stereo microphone input jack, while all three models are compatible with Nikon i-TTL Speedlights. 

Seamlessly Shoot and Share

Nikon SnapBridge makes it easier than ever to shoot and share amazing images with friends and family. Available throughout Nikon’s newest line of premium compacts, SnapBridge utilizes Bluetooth®1 low energy technology (BLE) to provide an “always on” connection to a compatible2 smart device. Users can now seamlessly send images from their camera to a smart device (utilizing the new SnapBridge app) for easy sharing via social networks or to the cloud for instant storage. An unlimited number of thumbnails and 20 GB of storage will also be available for registered Nikon owners and SnapBridge users on Nikon Image Space, Nikon’s free image storing service. Additionally, built-in Wi-Fi3 and NFC remain available to help facilitate easy connection and sharing. 

Through Nikon SnapBridge, users can also operate their cameras remotely using the app, automatically synchronize time and location information to any image utilizing the camera’s constant connection to a compatible smart device, as well as embed information on any image, including copyright or photographers’ names. Lastly, firmware updates have never been easier, as Nikon will send registered users firmware information via the new SnapBridge application, directly to their smart device.

4K Video Capability

The DL series will be among Nikon’s first compact offerings to support 4K UHD video capability [3840×2160] at 30p, affording users the ability to capture incredibly beautiful video with remarkable detail, all with a compact camera. Multimedia photographers will have free reign over their creative vision with the ability to utilize PSAM selectable exposure modes while recording, alongside popular movie features like HDMI output to an external recorder, slow motion to 1200 fps and the ability to grab stills from video. Other creative video functions available include: Full HD movie, HD movie, Motion Snapshot, Slow motion, 4-second movie, Time-lapse movie, Superlapse movie and Jump cut.

DL24-85: The Premium Compact Camera Ready for Anything

Great for travel, portraits and general photography, the DL24-85 offers pocket-sized imaging power with a fast and versatile 24-85mm focal range. Compatible with 40.5mm threaded filters, the newly designed NIKKOR lens (11 elements in 9 groups) features a 3.6x zoom range (7x with Dynamic Fine Zoom4) and a wide f/1.8-2.8 aperture, empowering users to capture a wide variety of subjects with incredible detail and natural bokeh, even in low-light. The 24-85mm offering also features Dual Detect Optical VR, AF bracketing and a tilting Touch OLED display to make composing from creative angles easier than ever.

Exclusive to this DL model is a new Super Macro Mode (1:1) that helps capture even small subjects in life-size detail. Setting manual zoom on the camera to super macro position allows the user close-up shooting at a 35mm equivalent magnification, providing amazing detail whether shooting flowers in bloom or a wandering ladybug. Macro photographers can utilize a variety of camera functions within the mode, including focus bracketing, manual priority AF (M/A) mode and peaking indication, to truly customize the look and feel of every image.

DL18-50: A Premium Pocket Camera That Can Capture It All

For landscape and architecture shooters looking for compact, ultra-wide angle DL option, the DL18-50 provides a solution that fits easily into any photographer’s pocket. Starting at a wide 18mm and expanding to 50mm (2.8x zoom, 5.5x with Dynamic Fine Zoom) the camera sports a powerful NIKKOR lens with a wide f/1.8-2.8 aperture that makes it easier than ever to produce natural bokeh in any image, while capturing tack-sharp stills and video. This lens is compatible with 46mm filters and features Nikon’s Nano Crystal Coat to help reduce ghosting and flare. 

Those who choose the wide-angle DL premium compact can also take advantage of perspective controls to help compensate for image distortion, particularly for shooting tall objects from the ground like landmarks and skyscrapers. Tailored for architecture shooters, this feature helps to capture the correct perspective with ease.

For use with the DL24-85 and DL18-50, a newly designed optional DF-E1 electronic viewfinder (EVF) will be available for discerning photographers who desire for a traditional eye-level viewfinder to frame their photos. The compact DF-E1 features a 2,359k-dot resolution with eye sensor, alongside a tilting mechanism, diopter adjustment and anti-reflection coating, helping provide further clarity and versatility for DL shooters. 

DL24-500: Get Close and Connect

The DL24-500 offers the longest zoom capability of any DL premium compact, reaching an incredible 500mm focal length and 21x optical zoom (42x with Dynamic Fine Zoom). Combining Nikon’s new 1-inch sensor with this impressive super-zoom NIKKOR lens, the DL24-500 is an ideal choice for users eager to photograph and share anything from concerts to wildlife. Featuring an f/2.8-5.6 aperture, this lens (compatible with 55mm filters) integrates the newest NIKKOR technologies to help render amazing images and background blur, even from afar.

The DL24-500 also features Dual Detect Optical VR, particularly useful when shooting at extremely long focal lengths or without a tripod, a built-in electronic viewfinder (EVF) with 2,359k-dot OLED display and an eye-sensor and a Vari-angle 1,037k-dot OLED screen.

Price and Availability

The new DL24-85, DL18-50 and DL24-500 will be available in early summer 2016 for suggested retail prices (SRP) of $ 649.95*, $ 849.95*, and $ 999.95*, respectively. Pricing and availability for the optional DF-E1 electronic viewfinder, compatible with both the DL24-85 and DL18-50, is TBD. For more information on these new Nikon products, please visit www.nikonusa.com.

1 The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks by Nikon Corporation and its affiliates is under license. 

2. WI-FI COMPATIBILITY This camera’s built-in Wi-Fi® capability can only be used with a compatible iPhone®, iPad®, and/or iPod touch® or smart devices running on the Android™ operating system. The Nikon SnapBridge application must be installed on the device before it can be used with this camera. The SnapBridge app is not yet available (coming soon in spring 2016) Apple, the Apple logo, iPhone, iPad and iPod touch are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc.

3. Wi-Fi and the Wi-Fi logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of the Wi-Fi Alliance. N-Mark is a trademark or registered trademark of NFC Forum, Inc., in the United States and/or other countries.

4. Dynamic Fine Zoom magnification is calculated from the full-wide end of optical zoom

* SRP (Suggested Retail Price) listed only as a suggestion. Actual prices are set by dealers and are subject to change at any time.

Nikon DL18-50 / DL24-85 specifications

  Nikon DL18-50 Nikon DL24-85
Price
MSRP $ 849 $ 649
Body type
Body type Large sensor compact
Sensor
Max resolution 5584 x 3712
Image ratio w:h 3:2
Effective pixels 21 megapixels
Sensor photo detectors 23 megapixels
Sensor size 1″ (13.2 x 8.8 mm)
Sensor type BSI-CMOS
Processor Expeed 6A
Color space sRGB
Color filter array Primary color filter
Image
ISO Auto, 100-12800
White balance presets 7
Custom white balance Yes
Image stabilization Optical
Uncompressed format RAW
File format
  • JPEG (Exif v2.3)
  • Raw (NEF)
Optics & Focus
Focal length (equiv.) 18–50 mm 24–85 mm
Optical zoom 2.8× 3.5×
Maximum aperture F1.8 – F2.8
Autofocus
  • Contrast Detect (sensor)
  • Phase Detect
  • Multi-area
  • Center
  • Selective single-point
  • Tracking
  • Single
  • Continuous
  • Touch
  • Face Detection
  • Live View
Autofocus assist lamp Yes
Digital zoom Yes (4x)
Manual focus Yes
Normal focus range 15 cm (5.91) 30 cm (11.81)
Macro focus range 3 cm (1.18)
Number of focus points 171
Screen / viewfinder
Articulated LCD Tilting
Screen size 3
Screen dots 1,037,000
Touch screen Yes
Screen type OLED
Live view Yes
Viewfinder type Electronic (optional)
Photography features
Minimum shutter speed 30 sec
Maximum shutter speed 1/2000 sec 1/1600 sec
Maximum shutter speed (electronic) 1/16000 sec
Exposure modes
  • Program AE
  • Shutter priority
  • Aperture priority
  • Manual
Scene modes
  • Bird Watching
  • Close-up
  • Food
  • HDR
  • Landscape
  • Multiple Exposure Lighten
  • Night Landscape
  • Night Portrait
  • Portrait
  • Selective Color
  • Sports
Built-in flash No Yes
Flash range 5.00 m (at ISO 100)
External flash Yes (via hot shoe)
Continuous drive 60.0 fps
Self-timer Yes (2 or 10 secs)
Metering modes
  • Multi
  • Center-weighted
  • Spot
Exposure compensation ±5 (at 1/3 EV, 1 EV steps)
Videography features
Resolutions 3840 x 2160 (30p, 25p), 1920 x 1080 (60p, 50p, 30p, 25p), 1280 x 720 (60p, 50p, 30p, 25p)
Format MPEG-4, H.264
Videography notes Slow motion: 1080/120p, 720/240p, 800 x 296 (400p), 400 x 144 (1200p)
Microphone Stereo
Speaker Mono
Storage
Storage types SD/SDHC/SDXC
Connectivity
USB USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
HDMI Yes (micro-HDMI)
Microphone port No
Headphone port No
Wireless Built-In
Wireless notes Wi-Fi with NFC and constant connection via Bluetooth
Remote control Yes (via smartphone)
Physical
Battery Battery Pack
Battery description EN-EL24 lithium-ion battery & charger
Battery Life (CIPA) 290
Weight (inc. batteries) 365 g (0.80 lb / 12.87 oz) 350 g (0.77 lb / 12.35 oz)
Dimensions 106 x 63 x 58 mm (4.17 x 2.48 x 2.28) 105 x 61 x 50 mm (4.13 x 2.4 x 1.97)
Other features
Orientation sensor Yes
Timelapse recording Yes (video)
GPS None

Nikon DL24-500 specifications

Price
MSRP $ 999
Body type
Body type Large sensor compact
Sensor
Max resolution 5584 x 3712
Image ratio w:h 3:2
Effective pixels 21 megapixels
Sensor photo detectors 23 megapixels
Sensor size 1″ (13.2 x 8.8 mm)
Sensor type BSI-CMOS
Processor Expeed 6A
Color space sRGB
Color filter array Primary color filter
Image
ISO Auto, 100-12800
White balance presets 7
Custom white balance Yes
Image stabilization Optical
Uncompressed format RAW
File format
  • JPEG (Exif v2.3)
  • Raw (NEF)
Optics & Focus
Focal length (equiv.) 24–500 mm
Optical zoom 20.8×
Maximum aperture F2.8 – F5.6
Autofocus
  • Contrast Detect (sensor)
  • Phase Detect
  • Multi-area
  • Center
  • Selective single-point
  • Tracking
  • Single
  • Continuous
  • Touch
  • Face Detection
  • Live View
Autofocus assist lamp Yes
Digital zoom Yes (4x)
Manual focus Yes
Normal focus range 30 cm (11.81)
Macro focus range 1 cm (0.39)
Number of focus points 171
Screen / viewfinder
Articulated LCD Fully articulated
Screen size 3
Screen dots 1,037,000
Touch screen Yes
Screen type OLED
Live view Yes
Viewfinder type Electronic (optional)
Viewfinder coverage 97%
Viewfinder resolution 2,359,000
Photography features
Minimum shutter speed 30 sec
Maximum shutter speed 1/2000 sec
Maximum shutter speed (electronic) 1/16000 sec
Exposure modes
  • Program AE
  • Shutter priority
  • Aperture priority
  • Manual
Scene modes
  • Bird Watching
  • Close-up
  • Food
  • HDR
  • Landscape
  • Multiple Exposure Lighten
  • Night Landscape
  • Night Portrait
  • Portrait
  • Selective Color
  • Sports
Built-in flash Yes
Flash range 10.00 m (at ISO 100)
External flash Yes (via hot shoe)
Continuous drive 60.0 fps
Self-timer Yes (2 or 10 secs)
Metering modes
  • Multi
  • Center-weighted
  • Spot
Exposure compensation ±5 (at 1/3 EV, 1 EV steps)
Videography features
Resolutions 3840 x 2160 (30p, 25p), 1920 x 1080 (60p, 50p, 30p, 25p), 1280 x 720 (60p, 50p, 30p, 25p)
Format MPEG-4, H.264
Videography notes Slow motion: 1080/120p, 720/240p, 800 x 296 (400p), 400 x 144 (1200p)
Microphone Stereo
Speaker Mono
Storage
Storage types SD/SDHC/SDXC
Connectivity
USB USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
HDMI Yes (micro-HDMI)
Microphone port Yes
Headphone port No
Wireless Built-In
Wireless notes Wi-Fi with NFC and constant connection via Bluetooth
Remote control Yes (via smartphone)
Physical
Battery Battery Pack
Battery description EN-EL20A lithium-ion battery & charger
Battery Life (CIPA) 290
Weight (inc. batteries) 780 g (1.72 lb / 27.51 oz)
Dimensions 123 x 90 x 139 mm (4.84 x 3.54 x 5.47)
Other features
Orientation sensor Yes
Timelapse recording Yes (video)
GPS None

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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CP+ 2016: Hands-on with Nikon DL Compacts

25 Feb

CP+ 2016: Hands-on with Nikon DL Compacts

DPReview is at the CP+ 2016 show in Yokohama, Japan, where Nikon announced three new compact cameras. The ‘DL’ range is distinct from the established Coolpix and 1-series lineups, and consists of three cameras built around the same 20MP 1″-type sensor. We headed straight to Nikon’s booth to get hands-on time with the DL18-50, DL24-85 and DL24-500.

CP+ 2016: Hands-on with Nikon DL Compacts

The DL24-85 is (we suspect) going to be the most popular of the three cameras, at least for the average DPReview reader. The 24-85 in its name designates a 24-85mm equivalent focal length range. This is a useful everyday focal range for general shooting and the lens is fast enough for low-light work and some control over depth-of-field for portraiture.

CP+ 2016: Hands-on with Nikon DL Compacts

This is the DL18-50 is ergonomically virtually identical to the DL24-85 but offers a considerably wider and shorter lens which covers an equivalent focal length range of (you guessed it) 18-50mm. The maximum aperture range of both cameras is identical, at F1.8-2.8. This wider range should make it more suitable for landscape and street photography fans, and just personally, I’m really looking forward to taking it hiking.

CP+ 2016: Hands-on with Nikon DL Compacts

The lenses of the DL18-50 (shown here) and the DL24-85 can be zoomed either in steps, using the ring around the lens barrel, or via a small W-T rocker switch around the shutter release. Having a step zoom is very handy for some situations (it’s a real time-saver in the DPReview studio, for one thing).

The frontmost dial is a focus dial, but it is unclear whether it can be customized to perform other functions. We’d fully expect this to be the case, but Nikon has been a little ambiguous on this point (and the cameras we handled for these images were in Japanese). As soon we can, we’ll try to get clarity. 

CP+ 2016: Hands-on with Nikon DL Compacts

The DL18-50’s lens offers Nikon’s Nano Crystal Coating, which should help when it comes to flare resistance – an important factor with such a wide-angle lens. 

CP+ 2016: Hands-on with Nikon DL Compacts

Ergonomically the DL18-50 and DL24-85 recall the Nikon Coolpix A, crossed with some of Panasonic’s compact zoom cameras, like the LX100. Both feel solid and well-built and the various control points move positively and aren’t too small for comfortable use. Nikon is clearly attacking the same market with these new 4K-capable cameras as Sony is with the Cyber-shot RX100-series, and we’re very keen to see how they compare in the studio. 

CP+ 2016: Hands-on with Nikon DL Compacts

Unlike Sony’s Cyber-shot RX100-series, the DL18-50 and DL24-85 offer touch-sensitive rear OLED screens. And they tilt outwards, too, as well as upwards to 180 degrees for selfies. Although we’re basing our impressions on very brief use of prototype cameras, the screens seem responsive to the touch, and are certainly nice and constrasty. Which is good news because the DL18-50 and DL24-85 lack built-in viewfinders. Instead, you’ll need an optional EVF (price still TBC) which adds versatility, and of course, cost. 

The DL24-85 will cost $ 649 and the wider DL18-50 will set you back $ 849.

CP+ 2016: Hands-on with Nikon DL Compacts

The largest and most expensive ($ 999) of the three new DL cameras is the DL24-500 which offers an equivalent focal length range of 24-500mm. Like the smaller DLs it offers 4K video capture, up to 60fps continuous shooting and enthusiast-focused ergonomics, but inevitably it is much larger to accommodate that longer lens.

The lens is slower, too, offering a maximum aperture range of F2.8-5.6. That’s the price you pay for the greater versatility of the longer zoom range. 

CP+ 2016: Hands-on with Nikon DL Compacts

The other reason why the DL24-500 is physically larger than the DL18-50 and DL24-85 is its built-in EVF, which sits above the lens axis in classic ‘bridge’ camera style. To the left of the viewfinder hump is a small cap over the DL24-500’s microphone jack. This is an unusually prominent position for a mic jack and reflects the importance of video in the camera’s feature set. All three DL-series cameras shoot 4K, but ergonomically, the DL24-500 is definitely the better suited to filmmaking. 

CP+ 2016: Hands-on with Nikon DL Compacts

All three cameras offer Nikon’s ‘Dual Detect Optical VR’ vibration reduction, but this is especially useful in the DL24-500, with its longer, slower lens. We have high hopes, too for its autofocus system which is inherited from the 1-series (and shared with the DL18-50 and DL24-85) which combines 105 phase-detection and 171 contrast-detection AF points in a hybrid system that should be extremely competitive with cameras like Sony’s Cyber-shot RX10 II and the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ1000.

CP+ 2016: Hands-on with Nikon DL Compacts

Hybrid AF has been a major selling point of Nikon’s 1-series since its inception and promises fast and accurate subject tracking, certainly compared to pure contrast-detection focusing systems. All three DL-series compacts can shoot at up to 20 fps with autofocus. Impressive stuff, assuming the hit-rate is decent.

CP+ 2016: Hands-on with Nikon DL Compacts

The screen on the back of the DL24-500 is touch-sensitive, just like its smaller DL cousins, but fully articulating. All three cameras offer plenty of manual control including a physical exposure compensation button which spans an unusually wide +/-5EV (visible on the upper right of the camera’s top-plate in this view). 

CP+ 2016: Hands-on with Nikon DL Compacts

The DL24-500 offers twin control dials, one on the top-plate (to the left of the exposure compensation dial) and one on the rear, around the conventional 4-way controller. This view also shows off the large EVF housing and generous eye-cup. 

CP+ 2016: Hands-on with Nikon DL Compacts

So what do you think? We’re pretty impressed, especially by the DL24-85 and DL18-50, and it’s nice to see Sony getting some genuine competition in a market segment that has been dominated by RX100-series cameras. All three DL compacts have a lot to offer (the DL24-500 might finally give the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ1000 a run for its money in terms of autofocus performance) and we’re really keen to see how all three perform when shipping samples become available. 

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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DL or No DL? What you need to know about the Nikon DL compacts

23 Feb

Three’s company

Are compact cameras still relevant? Nikon seems to think they can be, if they’re good enough. It’s announced three premium compacts, all built around 20.8MP 1″-type BSI CMOS sensors its latest, ‘EXPEED 6A’ processor. If that sensor spec sounds familiar, it’s because the Nikon J5 uses a very similar…probably the same…one.

The firepower in that new processor results in 4K video capture capabilities and bursts up 60 fps without AF, and 20 fps with. Combine this speed with a hybrid AF system that uses 105 phase-detect and 171 contrast-detect points (the same one found in the 1-System), and you should have three seriously capable compacts.

When we sat down with Nikon reps back at CES 2016, they explained how engineers developed the three in unison, but targeted each camera’s focal length range toward a very specific customer. However, all three customers are expected to be DSLR shooters looking for a smaller, lighter alternative for everyday shooting. As such, all three can shoot RAW, offer Adobe RGB, can utilize Nikon i-TTL Speedlights, and use a menu system very similar to that found in their pro and enthusiast DSLRs.

Meet the family

The three cameras that make up Nikon’s DL line of premium 1″-type compacts include the DL24-85, DL18-50 and DL24-500. They may not have the most exciting or creative names, but at least they’re straightforward. As you might have guessed, the 24-85 offers a 24-85mm equivalent F1.8-2.8 lens and is the standard zoom compact of the bunch. Reasonably fast on the wide end, this camera has a lot of appeal as an everyday pocketable shooter.

The DL18-50 is the first 1″-type camera to have an ultra-wide lens which, in this case, is a 18-50mm equiv. It also features an impressively fast 1.8-2.8 aperture range, and sits as the DL’s wide/normal option. And on the tele end you have the DL24-500 F2.8-5.6. It isn’t as fast as the other two and certainly isn’t pocketable, but it is easily offers the most versatile focal range of the three.

Yet more choices

Style-wise, the DL24-85 and DL18-50 may seem oddly familiar. The concealingly small dial on the back looks a lot like those on the Nikon 1 series bodies, but from the front, they look almost as if Nikon’s borrowed the leftover tooling from Panasonic’s LX5. This is no bad thing – the LX5 was a really classy little enthusiast compact, but we thought it was faintly amusing, given how fiercely Nikon has protected its industrial design in the past.

We’re joking, of course, and there’s no such precedent for the DL24-500 – perhaps because its design resembles every other superzoom on the market. It’s pretty difficult to make an interesting-looking superzoom, just as it’s difficult to make an interesting looking SUV. And often inadvisable to do so.

How do they compare?

We’ve had to approximate how the available F number on each lens will decline, as you zoom in, but even with these approximated values, you can see that the DL24-85 sits between the lens range of the Sony Cyber-shot RX100 Mark III and IV, and that of Canon’s Powershot G7 X II.

The graph should also make clear just how unusual the DL18-50’s lens is. 18mm equivalent is significantly wider than any of the other 1″ sensor compacts currently on the market, yet it’s bright and able to reach a relatively practical 50mm equivalent focal length.

As usual, we’ve plotted these graphs to show both equivalent focal length and equivalent aperture.

Reaching for it

The DL24-500 joins an already impressive group of 1″ sensor superzooms, including the Sony RX10 II, Panasonic FZ1000 and Canon G3 X. These cameras are undeniably popular, especially amongst travel photographers. From its specs alone, the DL24-500 certainly seems like a competitor. Its 4K capture and slow motion video options compete directly with some of the most stand-out specs from the RX10 II (which we recently gave a Gold Award to).

All of these cameras offer considerably better image quality than conventional, small-sensor superzooms. So, although they can’t boast >80x on the little metallic stickers they wear on camera store shelves, they still offer a degree of reach that will be suitable for a huge variety of shooting situations.

And again, the factor that could set the Nikon apart from its competition is its Hybrid AF system. If the DL24-500’s AF system offers similar performance to that of 1-Series cameras (and there’s little reason to think it wouldn’t), the competition will have good reason to be concerned.

Super steady

Each of the three DL compacts offers a secret power, specific to their zoom range and unique to each. In the case of the DL24-500, its super power is Sports VR for added stability when panning at the tele end. Of course, all three cameras have Dual Detect Optical VR and historically, Nikon cameras have impressed us with their stabilization, especially the Nikon P900 superzoom. So we definitely have high expectations for the DL24-500.

Of course, what good is VR and reach if you don’t have quality glass? All three Nikkor lenses have fluorine coatings to keep away moisture and grime, and the 18-50 is the company’s first compact to have a Nano Crystal Coat, which reduces flare and ghosting.

The everyday pocket cam to beat?

The Sony RX100 series of cameras has long been viewed as the pocketable premium compacts to beat. The most recent Sony RX100 IV in particular impressed us. But the Nikon DL24-85 has us ready to reconsider the crown.

The two cameras share a whole lot of similar specs, including 4K video capabilities, optical image stabilization, fast burst rates with continuous AF, and tilting LCDs. They both offer 20MP 1″-type sensors and very similar focal range, though the Nikon does have a bit more reach.

But the two do vary in some key areas. While the Sony has a pop-up EVF, you’ll have to pony up for an optional tilting model on the DL18-50 and 24-85. Conversely, the DLs all have touchscreen OLED displays, while the RX100s use non-touch LCDs. 

But an even bigger difference can be found when looking into each camera’s AF system: the Sony uses a contrast-detection AF system, while Nikon uses a hybrid approach (combining depth-aware phase detection with high-precision contrast detection). But before you dismiss the Sony entirely, it’s worth noting that the RX100 IV really impressed with its AF capabilities during our testing. So, while the Nikon DL24-85 should  be able to outperform the Sony, we’ll just have to wait until we get one in to know for sure.

Nice and close

The DL24-85 is the only DL of the three to offer a 1:1 macro mode (its secret power). It can be accessed by turning the zoom ring all the way to the right to the S.macro position. In the macro mode, users have a 35mm equiv. field of view. And while all three cameras offer a manual focus mode, the DL24-85 also has a focus bracketing feature, which should be particularity useful for macros.

Unfortunately, the ring around the lens barrel of the DL24-85 is not customizable (same goes for the other DL’s). It can only be used for manual focusing.

Wide street shooter

The DL18-50 is the widest DL of the bunch, and while its 18-50mm focal length may not appeal to casual shooters, street photographers are sure to be enticed by its range and fast lens. Its tilting touchscreen allows for tap-to-focus and, we assume, tap-to-shoot capabilities that should suit that ‘decisive moment’ shooting style.

This camera’s focal range will also likely appeal to architecture and landscape shooters. To further tempt said group, it has a built-in perspective control feature that can be used to distort the image to correct for perspective distortion.

Unlike the other two, it doesn’t have a built-in flash – perhaps because it would be too difficult to offer such wide coverage without some clever optics and a lot more distance away from the lens.

Touch, see, shoot and share

Touchscreens can be great, especially when paired with physical control points (this way you can choose). All three DLs offer 1.04M-dot OLED touch displays. The displays on the DL24-85 and DL18-50 can tilt, while the display on the DL24-500 is fully articulating. This only adds to the DL24-500’s appeal as a video-centric all-in-one.

The DL24-500 also offers a 2.4M-dot OLED electronic viewfinder, while the other two cameras accept the the rather bulky accessory DF-E1 tilting electronic viewfinder with the same XGA resolution. 

The three DLs are also Wi-Fi and Bluetooth enabled, allowing them to take advantage of Nikon’s ‘SnapBridge’ technology, first unveiled to the world at CES 2016 during the company’s press event announcing the D500. ‘SnapBridge’ allows a camera to stay connected to one’s smart device via low power Bluetooth connection, without the need to reconnect. It’s worth noting that while we’ve written about SnapBridge in the past and are excited by its implication, we have yet to try it. The cameras also support NFC, for quick and easy pairing with Android devices.

Where they fit on the 1″ scale

Here’s how they fit into the wider market. We don’t yet know exactly how their apertures will change as you zoom, so we’ve had to approximate them here.

The pricing is exactly as we’d expect: the DL24-85 with its fast standard zoom is a direct competitor for Sony’s RX100 III and Canon’s G7 X Mark II. It doesn’t have a viewfinder, as the Sony does, so it’s no surprise to find it’s being pitched at $ 150 lower than the RX100 III’s launch price and $ 50 below the Canon’s.

Meanwhile, the DL24-500’s long, increasingly slow lens makes it look like Nikon is targeting the same customers as the G3 X. And, guess what? The Nikon MSRP is exactly the same as the Canon’s, at $ 999.

Finally, although it shares a lot in common with the 24-85, there’s a premium to be paid for the DL18-50. With no direct rivals, and the challenges of making such a fast, wide lens, it’s no surprise that it’s to be launched for $ 849.

In summary

It’s interesting to see how these new models fit in to the market. Ever since Sony announced the RX100, manufacturers have been developing ever more variations and options around the 1″ sensor. Since most cameras take at least two years to develop, it’s still relatively early in the timeline, but with the arrival of Nikon there are now four manufacturers building large sensor compacts.

So far we’ve seen Sony focus its RX100 series on the idea of a small camera with a large sensor and a bright lens, with zoom range being the trade-off being made. Canon very much followed suit with its G7 X models. And the Nikon DL 24-85mm, with its F1.8 – 2.8 is clearly targeting the same potential buyers.

Meanwhile, Sony, Panasonic and Canon have all developed riffs on the large bodied, long zoom theme. Sony’s RX10 (both I and II) opt for constant aperture zooms, while Panasonic’s FZ1000 gives greater range that gets slower as you zoom. Nikon’s DL 24-500mm is much closer to Canon’s G3 X, in offering still more zoom by letting the aperture drop even further.

As such, the standout camera in this group is the DL 18-50. It’s fast (F1.8-2.8), ultra-wide to just-beyond-normal zoom range is unique, and offers an exciting option for wide-angle shooters looking for a pocketable camera with what should be good image quality. Whatever our reservations have been in the past about Nikon compacts, the image quality has usually been very good.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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2015 Roundup: Advanced Zoom Compacts

10 Nov

While most of the cameras in this category fall within the $ 500-$ 800 range (with a few exceptions), offerings vary quite a bit in terms of sensor size, control points, zoom range, video capabilities and built-in electronic viewfinders (or lack thereof). In general, we only included flagship compacts from each brand. All of the cameras here offer some sort of zoom range, in general, less than 8x. Get an overview of the category and find out our recommendations. Read more

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2015 Roundup: Long Zoom Compacts

06 Nov

The Long Zoom Compact category is probably the most diverse of any in our 2015 roundups. Within it are three separate sub-classes of camera, all of which offer 8x optical zoom or greater (up to a whopping 83x). Find out which we recommend. Read more

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Hands-on with Canon’s new PowerShot G5 X, G9 X compacts

24 Oct

Canon’s new PowerShot G5 X and G9 X offer 1-inch sensors in compact, easy-to-use bodies. The G9 X is similar in to Canon’s popular PowerShot S-series, while the G5 X takes the guts of last year’s G7 X but with much more enthusiast-friendly ergonomics. We got our hands on both new models this week at the Photo Plus Expo in New York. Read our first impressions

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Nikon announces Coolpix AW130 and S33 rugged compacts

11 Feb

Nikon has just refreshed its rugged camera lineup with the Coolpix AW130 and budget-friendly S33. The AW130 sports a 16MP CMOS sensor, 24-120mm equivalent zoom range, a 3” 920k dot OLED, 1080/30p video capture, Wi-Fi/NFC and built-in GPS. It can be submerged down to 30m/100 ft, is shockproof up to 2.1m/7 ft and freeze proof down to -10C/14F. Read more

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Nikon announces Coolpix P610, L840, S9900, S7000 and S6900 compacts with emphasis on zoom

10 Feb

The pre-CP+ announcements keep on rolling in, and with them, new cameras from Nikon, including six zoom-centric, stabilized compacts that all sport 16MP CMOS sensors and built-in Wi-Fi/NFC. The P610 offers the greatest reach of the bunch, a 24-1440mm equivalent range. Read more

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Canon rolls out PowerShot SX410 IS and ELPH 350 HS compacts

07 Feb

Rounding out its pre-CP+ announcements, Canon has introduced two new PowerShot compacts – the SX410 IS and the ELPH 350 HS/IXUS 275 HS. The SX410 offers a 24-960mm equivalent zoom range, a 20MP CCD sensor, 720p video and Canon’s Intelligent IS stabilization. The PowerShot 350 HS assumes a more compact form with a 25-300mm equivalent zoom range, 20.2MP CMOS sensor, built-in Wi-Fi with NFC and 1080p video. Read more

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