A Methodical Comparison Between Nikon Coolpix A900 and Nikon Coolpix P100: A Comprehensive Review for Photography Enthusiasts

In the realm of small sensor superzoom cameras, Nikon's Coolpix series has consistently offered accessible yet versatile options for enthusiasts aiming for travel convenience without forgoing zoom capabilities. This article presents a meticulous comparison between two distinct models in this category: the Nikon Coolpix A900, announced in early 2016, and the Nikon Coolpix P100, launched in 2010. Both cameras are positioned in a similar price bracket, yet they represent different design philosophies and technological epochs within Nikon's lineup.

Based on extensive hands-on testing and industry-standard technical evaluation, this comparison dives into every aspect from sensor design to ergonomic nuances, with practical insights curated specifically for photographic professionals and serious hobbyists.

First Impressions and Ergonomic Overview

When initiating any camera comparison, understanding the physical design and handling characteristics lays the groundwork for judging operational comfort and portability.

Form Factor and Handling

• Nikon A900: A compact point-and-shoot body intended for ultimate portability, the A900 weighs a mere 289 grams with a compact physical dimension of 113 x 67 x 40 mm. This slim profile notably favors travel photographers or those prioritizing pocketability.

• Nikon P100: A bridge camera with an SLR-like stance, the P100 is bulkier and heavier at 481 grams, measuring 114 x 83 x 99 mm. The larger grip and pronounced handhold area suggest greater emphasis on stability for longer focal lengths.

Analysis: The size and weight difference reflects divergent user intentions. The A900 leverages portability but sacrifices some tactile control, while the P100's heft facilitates steadier shooting, especially at full zoom reach. Those accustomed to DSLR ergonomics may appreciate the P100's physicality, whereas casual travel photographers will find the A900 more unobtrusive.

Top-View Control Layout

Inspection of control schemes reveals the operational philosophy:

• The A900 employs a minimalist interface geared for straightforward operation, lacking dedicated external manual focus rings or extensive customized controls.
• The P100 offers more comprehensive physical control options, including a dedicated manual focus ring, multiple mode dials, and exposure adjustment buttons, appealing more to users wanting granular manual input.

Conclusion: Professionals seeking quick access to manual functions will find the P100 preferable; conversely, the A900 suits users favoring simplicity, though at the expense of tactile feedback.

Sensor Architecture and Image Quality

Technical image quality assessment anchors most decisions, especially when debating cameras sharing the same sensor size but differing in resolution and processing.

Sensor Specifications and Resolution

Both cameras utilize a 1/2.3" BSI-CMOS sensor measuring approximately 6.17 x 4.55 mm, yielding an active sensor area about 28 mm², consistent with principal superzoom compacts.

• Nikon A900: 20 Megapixels resolution (5184 x 3888 pixels)
• Nikon P100: 10 Megapixels resolution (3648 x 2736 pixels)

Technical Insight: The A900's higher pixel density pushes the limits for detail capture on a sensor this size, which tends to increase noise at high ISOs. The P100's lower resolution yields larger photosites, generally advantageous for low-light sensitivity and dynamic range.

Image Processing and Output Quality

• The A900 utilizes an unspecified processor but benefits from advances since 2010, especially in noise reduction and edge sharpening.
• The P100 leverages Nikon’s Expeed C2 which, while competent for its time, cannot match newer image processing efficiency.

Real-World Testing Notes:

• ISO Performance: The A900 demonstrates improved high ISO capability versus the P100, usable up to ISO 1600 with acceptable noise for casual prints. The P100’s images degrade markedly beyond ISO 400.
• Dynamic Range: Both cameras have limited dynamic range inherent in small sensors, but the P100’s larger pixels grant slightly better shadow retention.
• Color Reproduction: Both cameras render skin tones and natural colors reliably, with the A900 showing marginally more natural hue transitions due to newer sensor design.

Lens Systems and Optical Performance

The integrated fixed zoom lenses define the extent to which these cameras excel, especially in reaching distant subjects without sacrificing image integrity.

Zoom Range and Maximum Aperture

The A900 offers a notably longer reach extending to an impressive 840 mm equivalent, invaluable for wildlife and sports enthusiasts needing extra reach. However, its maximum aperture narrows at telephoto end, impacting low-light capability and background separation.

The P100’s brighter optic at wide angle and telephoto (f/2.8-5.0) yields better light gathering, enhancing exposure flexibility and background blur potential.

Macro Capability

Both cameras focus as close as 1 cm, offering competent macro shooting. The P100’s lens, combined with manual focus, allows more precise control in close-up scenarios.

Practical Lens Assessment:

• Sharpness: The P100 maintains better edge-to-edge sharpness at wide and mid-zooms; optical performance softens on the A900 at its extreme telephoto positions.
• Chromatic Aberration & Distortion: Both lenses show manageable distortion corrections internally; however, the P100 edges slightly ahead with less pronounced CA in challenging scenes.

Autofocus, Shooting Speeds, and Stabilization

Autofocus System

• Nikon A900: Contrast-detection autofocus with face detection, eye detection is enabled, and continuous AF/AF tracking modes are available.
• Nikon P100: Contrast-detection autofocus only, without face or eye detection; manual focus ring available.

Performance Summary:

• The A900’s autofocus system is more advanced and versatile, providing reliable tracking of faces and movement in daylight and controlled indoor lighting, enhancing usability in portrait and street photography.
• The P100 lacks tracking capabilities; continuous AF is unavailable, reducing efficacy in dynamic subjects.

Shooting Speed and Buffer

• The A900 shoots at up to 7 fps continuous shooting.
• The P100 reaches faster burst speeds at 10 fps but only supports single AF per shot, limiting real-world tracking utility.

Image Stabilization

• Both cameras incorporate optical/image-shift stabilization; however:
  • A900 uses Optical image stabilization built into the lens system.
  • P100 employs sensor-shift type stabilization.

In practice, both achieve roughly equivalent results up to moderate telephoto focal lengths, allowing handheld usability without blur. For extreme telephoto or low light, stabilization is a necessity, and both cameras deliver meaningful assistance.

Viewfinders and Displays

Rear LCD Screen

The A900 sports a noticeably sharper rear display, improving menu navigation and image review clarity. Its tilting mechanism is optimized for low and high-angle shooting positions.

Electronic Viewfinder (EVF)

• A900: None.
• P100: Includes an EVF, a valuable asset for bright daylight shooting and precision framing.

Operational Consideration: The presence of EVF on the P100 benefits users shooting in direct sunlight or preferring eye-level composition. The A900’s omission reduces weight but limits framing options in challenging light.

Video Capability and Multimedia Features

Recording Specs

The A900 has a clear advantage in video capabilities, offering 4K UHD recording with decent frame rate flexibility. Video enthusiasts will appreciate the higher resolution and smoother recording options, although the lack of an external microphone input limits audio capture quality.

The P100’s more basic Full HD 30p limits video resolution and smooth motion rendering.

Battery Life, Storage, and Connectivity

Battery Endurance

• A900: Rated for approximately 300 shots per charge with proprietary EN-EL12 battery.
• P100: Battery specs less clear; original EN-EL5 battery likely offers comparable to slightly less longevity due to older technology and heavier power demands.

For extended outdoor shooting, the A900's modern battery efficiency may prove advantageous.

Storage Options

Both cameras support SD / SDHC / SDXC cards, but:

• The P100 includes internal memory storage, albeit limited.
• The A900 relies exclusively on external SD cards.

Connectivity

• A900: Equipped with built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC, and HDMI ports for wireless transfer and remote control.
• P100: Lacks wireless connectivity; HDMI and USB 2.0 ports present.

Wireless features in the A900 provide clear workflow benefits for modern photographers desiring immediate sharing and remote shooting functions.

Durability, Build Quality, and Environmental Resistance

Neither camera offers weather sealing, dustproofing, or shock resistance. Their compact builds are designed more for casual and enthusiast scenarios rather than professional rugged use.

Genre-Specific Usability and Performance

Portrait Photography

• A900: Superior face and eye detection AF enhances portrait focus precision. 20MP sensor allows detailed skin texture portrayal, though small sensor limits bokeh quality.
• P100: Manual focus and broader aperture provide better background separation albeit at lower resolution and AF limitations.

Landscape Photography

• A900: Higher resolution favors detailed landscapes. Limited dynamic range and sensor size constrain highlight recovery.
• P100: Larger pixels deliver marginally better dynamic range but lower resolution reduces print enlargement capabilities.

Wildlife Photography

• A900: Longer 35x zoom (24-840 mm) with face/AF tracking suits distant wildlife, but slower max shutter and smaller aperture at telephoto impact low light.
• P100: Faster max aperture and 26x zoom less versatile at reach; manual focus hinders quick capture but boosts precision.

Sports Photography

• A900: Decent 7 fps burst and continuous AF provide moderate sports capture ability.
• P100: Faster 10 fps shooting rate negated by single-shot AF make sequential focusing less reliable.

Street Photography

• A900: Compact body and quiet operation align with discreet shooting needs.
• P100: Larger size and louder operation less suited for candid street use.

Macro Photography

Both perform similarly in proximity focus, but the P100’s manual focus ring and brighter aperture aid fine focusing and background separation.

Night/Astro Photography

Neither camera is ideal, given small sensor noise and limited exposure control. However, the A900’s higher ISO usability and superior stabilization confer slight advantages.

Video Production

The A900 is distinctly better suited with 4K options and advanced stabilization, whereas the P100’s Full HD video is dated.

Travel Photography

The A900’s compact size, extended zoom, and wireless features empower travel shooters seeking all-in-one convenience.

The P100 demands a larger carrying footprint but rewards with manual controls and optical conveniences.

Professional Usage

Neither camera fully meets professional standards due to sensor size and lack of raw capture. However, the P100’s control interface and EVF provide more manual precision.

Comprehensive Performance Ratings

• The A900 surpasses the P100 in resolution, autofocus intelligence, video capability, and wireless connectivity.
• The P100 wins on manual control ergonomics, lens brightness, and EVF provision.

Summary: Which Camera Fits Your Needs?

Final Thoughts

Neither the Nikon Coolpix A900 nor the Coolpix P100 is aimed at the professional photographer demanding fast, high sensitivity, or raw capture capabilities from a high-end interchangeable lens system. Instead, both rely on compact small sensors and fixed zoom optics geared toward portability and all-in-one versatility. The A900, with its more modern architecture and higher resolution, is preferable for those seeking better image detail, video functionality, and wireless operability in a pocket-friendly design. The P100 targets users who prioritize manual control, an EVF, and brighter lens optics, at the cost of increased bulk and dated technology.

The choice between these cameras should therefore be dictated by individual priorities around portability, manual control, zoom reach, and the intended photographic applications as outlined above.

Additional Sample Images and Image Quality Showcase

Nikon A900 front Nikon A900 screen back Nikon P100 front Nikon P100 screen back

Viewing side-by-side image samples under various lighting scenarios aids in understanding the practical output differences. Note the finer texture retrieval and color gradation from the A900 versus the superior low-light clarity in P100 macro shots.

This detailed comparative evaluation reflects extensive testing regimes, including controlled lab measurements for resolution, autofocus responsiveness testing using standardized moving targets, and outdoor scenarios simulating likely shooting conditions for each camera. Users are encouraged to consider not only specs but also these critical practical functionalities before acquisition.

By objectively weighing all features and use-case considerations, photographers can confidently select the Nikon Coolpix A900 or P100 to suit their specific creative needs.