Nikon Coolpix L100 vs L120: A Hands-On Comparison for the Practical Photographer

When exploring compact superzoom cameras, particularly in the entry-level space, Nikon’s Coolpix line has long been a trusted name. The Nikon Coolpix L100 and L120 represent two successive efforts to deliver versatile, budget-friendly options with impressive zoom reach and straightforward operation. Having tested both extensively in varied shooting scenarios, from landscape vistas to wildlife close-ups, I’m here to provide a comprehensive, real-world comparison that cuts through the specs sheet to what really matters - how these cameras perform in your hands.

While these cameras may not compete with the latest mirrorless flagships, understanding their capabilities and limitations remains valuable for enthusiasts exploring affordable superzooms or those seeking a no-fuss companion for casual photography.

Designing for the User: Handling and Ergonomics

At first glance, the Nikon L100 and L120 look remarkably similar, both embracing the tried-and-true compact superzoom silhouette. Measured side-by-side, you notice subtle differences in bulk and control layout.

The L100 is a touch lighter, weighing in at 360 grams versus the L120’s 431 grams, though both remain manageable for extended handheld use. The L120’s slightly larger grip gives it a more confident feel in the hand, especially if you have medium to large palms. The physical dimensions differ mainly in thickness and grip protrusion - the L120 adds a bit more heft that benefits stability during longer telephoto shots.

Looking atop the bodies reveals some refinements Nikon made in the L120’s control scheme.

The L120 offers slightly larger, more tactile buttons and a dedicated zoom rocker around the shutter release, a clear win for quick framing. Although neither provides fully manual exposure control, the L120’s interface feels more polished, with additional modes accessible quickly via a mode dial.

Both cameras employ firmly fixed non-touch LCDs, but there’s a clear difference in quality and readability:

The L100’s 3-inch, 230k-dot LCD is serviceable outdoors but often frustrating under bright daylight, with washed out colors and limited viewing angles. The L120 significantly upgrades to a 3-inch 921k-dot anti-reflective TFT LCD, vastly improving preview accuracy and usability in challenging lighting.

In sum, while the L100’s ergonomics suit casual strolls and snapshots, those who prioritize improved control comfort and viewing clarity will appreciate the L120’s refinements. As someone who’s conducted extended shooting sessions with both, the L120’s grip and screen are meaningful upgrades for a pleasant experience.

Under the Hood: Sensor and Image Quality Metrics

Both cameras pack 1/2.3-inch CCD sensors, typical for this class, yet the L120 comes with a 14-megapixel chip compared to the L100’s 10 megapixels. The sensor dimensions are almost identical, but the L120’s improved processor (Expeed C2) aids better noise handling and color rendering.

While I couldn’t test DXOmark scores for these models directly, practical field tests reveal that the L120’s higher resolution enables sharper, more detailed images at base ISO 80. Color depth and dynamic range improvements are modest but noticeable when shooting landscapes or portraits in natural light - the L120 recovers highlights and shadow detail slightly better.

Both cameras rely on CCD sensors, meaning they tend to have limited high ISO performance compared to more modern CMOS sensors. The L100 maxes out at ISO 3200, although noise becomes objectionable at anything beyond ISO 800 in practical use. The L120 extends ISO to 6400, but again, usable results stick to the lower ISO range.

In daylight or well-lit environments, images from both cameras are respectable - plenty of detail, good color balance, and effective anti-aliasing to avoid moiré. But push to dim indoor or night scenes, and the L120’s noise reduction and slightly better ISO ceiling provide an edge. Neither camera supports RAW shooting, confining post-processing potential to JPEGs only, which is a clear limitation for serious image editing workflows.

Zooming In: Lens Capability and Optical Stabilization

Both the L100 and L120 include built-in zoom lenses with impressively long reach. The L100 offers a 28-420mm equivalent focal range (15x zoom), while the L120 extends that to 25-525mm (21x zoom).

The slightly wider starting focal length on the L120 enables more flexibility for landscapes or group portraits, while the longer telephoto end provides extra reach for wildlife and distant subjects.

Despite the extended zoom, maximum apertures remain modest with f/3.5-5.4 on the L100 and a bit faster f/3.1-5.8 on the L120. This means lower light performance at the telephoto end remains limited.

Both lenses support very close macro focusing down to 1 cm, a useful characteristic for table-top and nature photography.

In terms of image stabilization, the L100 uses optical vibration reduction, whereas the L120 employs sensor-shift stabilization, which generally offers improved flexibility and effectiveness across focal lengths.

In practice, when testing handheld at full telephoto on both cameras, the L120 more consistently delivers sharper results without noticeable motion blur, especially in slower shutter conditions. This makes the L120 better suited for casual wildlife and sports shooting, where faster reaction times and stable framing are critical.

Autofocus Systems: Precision and Speed in Real World Use

Here, we hit a significant functional difference.

The L100 features a contrast-detection autofocus system without face or eye detection, and only supports single-shot AF with no continuous or tracking modes. As a result, locking focus on fast-moving subjects can be spotty. The lack of AF area selection means the camera defaults to center-weighted focusing, which may frustrate those attempting street or action photography.

Conversely, the L120 boasts a 9-point AF system with face detection and autofocus tracking, alongside center-weighted and multi-area AF modes. It supports continuous autofocus in live view, which is a significant step towards versatility.

During side-by-side tests photographing kids playing or urban wildlife, the L120 delivered more consistent and reliable focus locks and maintained tracking for brief bursts. The L100 struggled in dynamic scenes, resulting in a higher miss rate.

Both cameras rely on contrast detection without phase detection autofocus, so speed falls far short of modern mirrorless cameras, but within their class, the L120’s system is notably more competent.

Shooting Speed and Burst Performance

If you anticipate photographing fast-moving subjects or want a responsive camera for sports, the L120’s continuous shooting mode is a bonus, albeit modest.

It supports one frame per second continuous shooting (no high-speed burst), whereas the L100 does not offer continuous shooting.

This limitation, combined with the slow AF on both cameras, means neither will excel in demanding sports or wildlife situations - but the L120 provides at least some incremental improvement for capturing fleeting moments.

Low Light and Night Photography Capabilities

Neither camera is designed for serious night or astrophotography, but the L120 extends the maximum ISO and shutter speed range somewhat.

The L100’s shutter speed range caps at 1/2000s minimum and 8 seconds maximum; the L120 improves to 1/4000s minimum and 4 seconds maximum shutter time, which helps avoid overexposure in bright conditions and allows slightly longer exposures.

Autofocus performance and noise take a hit in dim conditions for both cameras; however, the L120’s higher ISO ceiling and better stabilization translate into more usable shots indoors or in available light night scenes.

For astrophotography enthusiasts, neither camera supports bulb mode or RAW capture, limiting creative long exposure potential significantly, so these should be considered casual night shooters.

Video Suitability and Features

The L100 records video at VGA resolution (640×480) at 30 fps using Motion JPEG, with no audio input or HDMI output. The quality, unsurprisingly, is dated and barely serviceable, with poor low light sensitivity and limited recording options.

The L120 offers a notable improvement with HD 720p video at 30 fps, also Motion JPEG format. It adds HDMI output allowing playback on external displays. Unfortunately, both models lack microphone or headphone jacks, so audio capture is basic and unmodifiable.

Neither model supports 4K or high frame rate video, and stabilization during recording is limited to sensor-shift IS on the L120, which helps but cannot compete with modern hybrid cameras.

For occasional family videos or simple travel clips, the L120 is far superior, but video enthusiasts will want to look elsewhere.

Battery Life and Storage

Both cameras rely on four AA batteries, a convenient choice for travel where replacements are easy to acquire. The L120 officially rates for around 330 shots per charge, whereas L100 battery life isn’t specified but generally lower.

In real-world sessions, I found the L120 to consistently outlast the L100, likely due to the more efficient processor and better power management.

Storage-wise, both include a single SD card slot - the L100 supports SD/SDHC cards and internal memory, while the L120 adds SDXC compatibility, future-proofing it for larger cards and seamless continuous shooting. No support for dual slots or backup cards in either.

Durability and Build Quality

Neither camera offers professional environmental sealing - no weatherproofing, dustproofing, shockproofing, or freeze resistance. Both are solidly constructed compact models with durable plastics but clearly intended for general consumer use rather than harsh conditions.

Photographers planning extended outdoor adventures or harsh climate shoots will need supplementary protection.

Software and Connectivity

In terms of connectivity, neither the L100 nor the L120 provide Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or GPS. The L120 does however include HDMI output for easy image and video viewing on compatible displays.

USB 2.0 ports are present on both but cater primarily to file transfer rather than tethered shooting or live remote control.

From a modern perspective, these cameras lack wireless convenience features, which is unsurprising given their ages (2009 and 2011 respectively). Users wanting seamless mobile transfer or geotagging should consider newer models.

Image Samples: Real-World Quality Side-by-Side

Nikon L100 front Nikon L100 screen back Nikon L120 front Nikon L120 screen back

Looking at unedited JPEG samples shot with both cameras under a variety of conditions - daylight portraits, macro shots, landscape vistas, and urban street scenes - confirms the technical assessments.

The L120’s higher resolution sensor captures more detail and texture, with better sharpness at telephoto lengths. Its color rendition leans cooler but more accurate, especially in shaded or mixed lighting.

The L100 tends to produce slightly softer images with warmer tones, which may be appealing for casual snapshots but risks appearing less crisp in large prints.

Noise levels at ISO 400 and above are noticeably lower on the L120, maintaining more subtle gradations without blotchy artifacts.

Summarizing the Scores: Overall and Genre-Specific Performance

Placing these cameras on a performance matrix spanning all major photography genres shows clear distinctions.

• Portraits: L120’s face detection autofocus and higher resolution yield better skin tone rendering and more reliable eye focus.
• Landscape: Both are serviceable, but L120’s wider zoom base and dynamic range advantage edge it ahead.
• Wildlife: L120’s longer telephoto lens and focus tracking are functional, whereas L100’s fixed single AF struggles.
• Sports: Neither is ideal, but L120’s continuous shooting and AF tracking deliver marginally better results.
• Street: The compact size favors both, but L120’s faster autofocus improves spontaneity.
• Macro: Both impressive with 1cm close focusing, L120’s sharper sensor helps detail capture.
• Night/Astro: Limited use; L120’s wider ISO range is the better choice.
• Video: L120 clearly superior with HD recording and HDMI out.
• Travel: L120’s versatility and battery life make it the better travel companion.
• Professional Work: Neither supports RAW or advanced controls, limiting pro usage.

Final Thoughts: Which Nikon Coolpix Compact Fits Your Needs?

The Nikon Coolpix L100 served its time as a capable, user-friendly superzoom camera in 2009, ideal for casual users seeking a simple all-in-one solution without fuss. However, the Nikon L120, released two years later, addressed many of the L100’s shortcomings with better ergonomics, improved sensor resolution, enhanced autofocus, and superior video capabilities.

If you prioritize:

• Image quality and detail,
• More confident autofocus performance,
• Versatile zoom range and stabilization,
• Better video recording,
• And a clearer, more usable LCD,

then the Nikon Coolpix L120 is unquestionably the stronger choice.

The L100 might still appeal to budget-minded photographers focused on basic photography without the need for speedy focus or HD video. Its lighter weight and slightly simpler operation can also appeal to beginners wary of complexity.

For the Portrait Shooter

The L120’s face-detection and higher resolution sensor produce better skin tones, richer detail, and improved bokeh simulation at longer zooms. The L100’s fixed single AF and lower resolution make it less adept at focusing precisely on eyes, an increasingly essential feature in portraiture. If you care about reliable eye and face focus, go for the L120.

For Landscape Enthusiasts

Both cameras offer respectable image quality with the classic limitations of small 1/2.3-inch sensors. The L120’s larger sensor area (albeit slightly), higher megapixels, and improved dynamic range actually show up during daylight and dawn shooting, capturing a bit more tonal nuance and detail.

Weather sealing is absent, so plan accordingly.

For Wildlife and Sports Snappers on the Go

Neither camera will rival dedicated DSLRs or mirrorless sports cameras, but the L120’s longer zoom, better autofocus tracking, and continuous shooting give it a functional advantage over the L100. The L100’s sluggish AF and lack of burst mode make it a frustrating choice in these domains.

For Street Photographers

Both cameras remain discreet and offer straightforward operation. The L120’s improved AF speed is beneficial, but both lack classic street photography charms like rangefinder styling, dedicated manual controls, or silent shooting modes.

Macro and Close-Up Lovers

Tied here, both cameras allow exceptionally close focusing (1 cm), enabling detailed table-top and nature shots without specialized equipment. The L120’s detail resolution is better, though.

Night and Astro Photography

The L120’s higher ISO ceiling and longer shutter range deliver more viable low-light shots but still fall short for dedicated astrophotography. Don’t expect clean images in the dark - these cameras shine brightest in good light.

Video Capture Fans

The L120 wins hands down with 720p HD video and HDMI output, although the lack of mic inputs limits professional audio recording. The L100’s VGA video feels outdated.

Travelers Seeking Versatility and Battery Life

The L120’s longer battery life, improved stabilization, richer zoom, and better display make it a more practical travel companion, especially when packing light.

Professional Use?

No. Neither supports RAW, manual exposure controls, or offers durability features. Consider these cameras as casual companions rather than full-time tools.

Closing Summary

Both the Nikon Coolpix L100 and L120 represent solid options for photographers who want easy-to-use, superzoom compacts under around $400. However, technical advancements and usability improvements in the L120 make it an unambiguous upgrade overall. Its sharper sensor, better autofocus, enhanced video, and ergonomic improvements make it a more versatile choice across most photography genres.

For the budget-conscious or those who prefer a simpler interface, the L100 remains a respectable, if somewhat dated, alternative.

Having spent extensive time hands-on with both cameras across a wide variety of shoots, I confidently recommend the Nikon Coolpix L120 for anyone seeking the best value and performance within this classic Nikon L-series superzoom range.