FujiFilm XP130 vs Nikon Coolpix AW100: Which Waterproof Camera is Right for You?

When it comes to rugged, waterproof cameras that can go anywhere and survive the knocks and splashes of active photography, both the Fujifilm XP130 and Nikon Coolpix AW100 have developed cult followings. Although they target a similar outdoorsy crowd, these two models - released seven years apart - bring markedly different strengths and compromises to the table. After extensively testing both cameras under real-world conditions across numerous photography genres, I want to take you through a detailed comparison that goes beyond specs sheets and marketing promises.

Whether you’re trekking mountain trails, shooting macro flora, or capturing family moments by the pool, understanding how each handles various photographic challenges will help you make an informed choice. And since I’ve personally run them through everything from landscape hikes to low-light night scenes, you’ll get insights rooted in hands-on experience.

Most importantly, I’ll break down which camera excels for specific user needs and budgets, aiding your decision in this rugged compact category.

Size, Build, and Usability: How Do They Feel in Your Hands?

Picking up the cameras, first impressions revolve around ergonomics and physical comfort, especially when you might be shooting in wet conditions or while wearing gloves.

Fujifilm XP130: It’s an ultracompact with dimensions of 110×71×28mm and weighing 207g. The slightly chunkier grip and weather-sealed body inspire confidence; the textured, rubberized grip area provides just enough tethering without adding bulk. Importantly, being freezeproof and shockproof adds ruggedness that’s essential for serious adventure photographers.

Nikon AW100: Measuring 110×65×23mm and a lighter 178g, Nikon’s offering is sleeker, with a more minimalist build reflecting its earlier release era. It’s waterproof and shockproof as well but feels less substantial in hand. The thinner body means it slips into pockets easily, catering well to travelers who prioritize portability alongside durability.

The XP130's more robust feel translates to a slight edge in handling, particularly when using the fixed 5x zoom lens. Buttons have reassuring tactility, helping precise control under challenging conditions.

In comparison, the AW100’s smaller size and reduced weight are an asset for street shoots or casual wildlife observing, but some might find the controls a little cramped, especially with cold or gloved hands.

You can also see the different control layouts in detail below, illustrating their design approaches.

Sensor and Image Quality: What’s Behind the Lens?

Both cameras feature a 1/2.3" sensor, which is common for compacts but poses limits compared to larger mirrorless or DSLR sensors.

• Fujifilm XP130: Equipped with a 16MP BSI-CMOS sensor, Fuji’s sensor benefits from backside illumination, which typically improves low-light sensitivity and dynamic range within such small formats. The native ISO range spans 100 to 3200 (boost to 6400), giving you some room for night or indoor shooting.

• Nikon AW100: Also 16MP but uses a CMOS sensor without BSI architecture. The ISO starts higher at 125 and maxes at 3200, which may impact noise performance at the lower end.

In practice, I found the XP130 produces cleaner images with more accurate color rendition and finer detail, especially in shadow recovery and challenging lighting. Skin tones, which matter greatly in portrait photography, come across naturally without obvious oversaturation - a common pitfall in many rugged compacts.

The AW100, while fairly competent in good light, tends to produce softer images and somewhat muted colors, making it less ideal for those who want vibrant travel photos or detailed landscapes.

LCD Screen and Interface: Are You Getting a Clear View?

On-field framing and reviewing shots demand a quality screen with adequate resolution and clarity.

• XP130’s 3" fixed LCD shines here with a 920k-dot resolution, offering a bright, sharp view suitable for outdoor use. While it lacks touchscreen, its intuitive physical buttons and menu layout make operation straightforward, even under wet or gloved conditions.

• AW100 shares the 3" size but drops to 460k dots, which feels noticeably less crisp. The TFT technology is standard but struggles somewhat under direct sunlight. So, for photography in bright outdoor environments, you might find the AW100’s screen less reliable for checking focus.

Neither camera features an electronic viewfinder, a common limitation in this niche but one that can frustrate users in intense sunlight or requiring stability.

Autofocus and Shooting Speed: Can They Keep Up With the Action?

Autofocus is a key performance area, especially for wildlife, sports, and street photography where quick, accurate focus is vital.

Fujifilm XP130 offers contrast-detection autofocus with face detection, AF tracking, and continuous AF modes - impressive for a rugged compact. It is also capable of 10 fps continuous shooting at full resolution, suitable for capturing fleeting moments like a bird in flight or fast-moving children.

Nikon AW100, on the other hand, has contrast-detection AF without face or tracking assist, and only 3 fps continuous shooting. In practice, this means it can struggle to maintain focus on moving subjects, resulting in more missed shots when action speeds up.

For static genres like landscapes or macro, this difference matters less, but for faster-paced photography, the XP130 stands out for responsiveness and accuracy.

Lens Performance and Macro Capabilities: How Close Can You Get?

Both cameras have a fixed 28-140mm (35mm equivalent) lens with a 5x optical zoom and a similar maximum aperture (roughly f/3.9-4.9).

Macro-wise, the XP130 impresses with a close focusing distance down to 9 cm, paired with sensor-shift image stabilization. This combination allows sharp close-ups of flowers, insects, or textures, a rarity in rugged compacts.

The AW100 lacks specified macro focusing, and without stabilization, achieving crisp handheld macros is tricky. You’ll likely rely on good lighting and very steady hands.

Image Stabilization: Real-World Impact on Sharpness

The Fujifilm XP130 includes sensor-shift image stabilization (IBIS), which helps reduce blur from handshake across all zoom ranges.

The Nikon AW100 notably lacks any image stabilization system, a notable omission given the 5x zoom lens. In practical use, this means you’ll see more softness at telephoto focal lengths and in low light unless you stabilize the camera yourself.

In handheld shooting situations, especially in dim or fast-action scenarios, this capability makes a tangible difference.

Weatherproofing and Durability: Ready for the Elements?

Both cameras are solidly built for rugged use:

• Waterproof to around 15 meters (XP130) vs 10 meters (AW100)
• Shockproof from falls (1.75m for XP130, 2m for AW100)
• Freezeproof and dustproof for harsh environments

The XP130 plusher grip enhances handling in wet weather, and its slightly higher waterproof rating may appeal to divers or snorkelers.

Video Recording: Can They Shoot Moving Images Well?

Video capability in rugged compacts can often feel like an afterthought - but the XP130 and AW100 diverge interestingly here.

Fujifilm XP130 records Full HD 1080p at 60fps using H.264 codec and Linear PCM audio, delivering smooth, high-quality footage suitable for casual underwater or travel video. It lacks 4K and any external mic input - understandable at this price.

Nikon AW100 also offers 1080p video but maxes at 30 fps in HD and supports several slow-motion modes: 720p at 60fps, VGA at 120fps, and even 240fps at 320x240. The slow-motion features are fun for creative effects but come with significant resolution compromises.

Neither camera includes microphone or headphone ports, which limits audio control.

Connectivity and Extras: Modern Conveniences

The Fujifilm XP130 includes built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, enabling wireless image transfer to smartphones or remote shooting from apps. This is a substantial convenience for social or travel photographers.

Conversely, the Nikon AW100 lacks any wireless feature, reflecting its 2011 release date. While it includes GPS for geotagging - a plus for location-oriented shooters - it is limited in modern connectivity terms.

Battery Life and Storage Practicalities

The XP130’s battery officially rated for 240 shots is modest but typical for compacts with image stabilization and 60 fps video capability. In testing, continuous shooting and Wi-Fi usage drain it faster, so carrying spares is recommended.

AW100 battery life ratings are not clearly specified, but anecdotal use suggests similar endurance. Both use a single SD card slot supporting SD, SDHC, and SDXC formats, covering basic storage needs.

Image Samples and Real-World Performance

After putting both cameras through a diverse shooting regimen - portraits, landscapes, wildlife, macro, low light, and underwater - I compiled side-by-side JPEG samples.

Fujifilm XP130 front Fujifilm XP130 screen back Nikon AW100 front Nikon AW100 screen back

You’ll notice the XP130’s images deliver more detail, punchier colors, and better sharpness without sacrificing natural tones. Its autofocus consistency and stabilization contribute significantly here.

The AW100’s shots feel softer, with less vibrant color and occasionally inaccurate exposure, especially in shadow-heavy scenes. Its slower autofocus meant more missed frames with movement.

Overall Scoring and Genre-Specific Results

Synthesizing my comprehensive tests and benchmarks:

XP130 leads comfortably on image quality, autofocus, video, stabilization, and connectivity. The AW100 remains competitive on ruggedness and portability but loses on core imaging strengths.

Evaluating across photography types:

• Portraits: XP130’s face detection and better skin tone reproduction shine.
• Landscapes: XP130’s dynamic range and color fidelity give it the edge.
• Wildlife & Sports: Faster burst and AF on XP130 make it more competent.
• Street & Travel: AW100’s lighter weight can be beneficial but XP130’s Wi-Fi is a plus.
• Macro: Clear advantage to XP130 for close focus and sharpness.
• Night/Astro: Neither excels, but XP130’s BSI sensor and higher ISO do better.
• Video: XP130’s smoother 60p beats AW100’s limited slow-motion modes.
• Professional: Neither is suited for pro workflows, but XP130 offers better file quality for casual shoots.

What’s My Recommendation?

Here’s the bottom line from my extensive hands-on analyses:

• If you need an affordable, reliable, rugged compact with better image quality, improved autofocus, video capabilities, and connectivity, the Fujifilm XP130 is the clear winner. It’s an excellent choice for adventures, travel, and versatile shooting scenarios.

• If minimal weight, pocketability, and GPS tracking are your priority, and you accept some compromises in image quality and slower autofocus, the Nikon AW100 remains a workable option - especially if you find it discounted.

Both cameras shine in their niche but the XP130 feels like a more thoughtfully evolved tool for enthusiasts seeking a balance of ruggedness and image quality.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Benefit Most from Each?

• Photography Enthusiasts and Outdoor Hobbyists: XP130’s versatility, solid autofocus, and Wi-Fi integration allow for creative and dynamic shooting in diverse conditions.

• Casual Travelers and Beginners: AW100’s simplicity and lighter design might appeal if rugged protection with ease of carry outweigh top image quality.

• Budget-Conscious Adventurers: XP130 offers more bang for the buck with a typical street price significantly lower than AW100’s original MSRP, a win in cost-to-performance.

• Those Prioritizing Video and Connectivity: XP130’s ability to shoot HD 60p video and direct smartphone sharing makes it the better modern companion.

In sum, extensive field use tells me the Fujifilm XP130 provides a notably superior experience for those wanting a rugged waterproof camera that punches above its price class. The Nikon AW100 remains a solid, simpler option but feels somewhat dated given today’s expectations.

If you want my personal take? Go Fuji. The XP130’s thoughtful features and reliable image quality have made it one of my favorite rugged compacts of its generation.

I hope this detailed comparison guide helps you navigate your choice confidently. If you’re interested, check out my full video review walkthroughs and field testing demonstrations for further perspective.

Happy shooting, wherever your adventures take you!