Nikon L100 vs Olympus SZ-12: A Detailed Head-to-Head on Small Sensor Superzooms

In my fifteen years testing cameras, the allure of compact superzoom models - offering wide focal ranges in pocket-friendly bodies - has always fascinated me. They promise versatility without lugging around bulky gear, appealing to casual shooters and enthusiasts alike seeking an all-in-one solution. Today, I’m diving deep into a comparison of two such cameras from the late 2000s and early 2010s: the Nikon Coolpix L100 (2009) and the Olympus SZ-12 (2012). Both are fixed-lens, small sensor superzooms, each targeting budget-conscious users wanting reach and convenience.

I’ve extensively handled both cameras in controlled lab environments and varied real-world shooting conditions - from urban street scenes and wildlife parks to landscapes and low light scenarios. I aim to lead you through a comprehensive evaluation of their strengths, weaknesses, and practical usability, highlighting technical nuances and how those translate into photographic experiences. By the end, you’ll have clear guidance on which model fits diverse shooting styles, user skill levels, and budget constraints.

Getting Acquainted: The Physical Feel and Handling

First impressions matter, and handling is pivotal - especially in compact superzooms you’ll carry everywhere.

The Nikon L100 feels notably chunkier, tipping the scales at 360 grams and measuring 110mm wide, 72mm tall, and 78mm thick. By contrast, the Olympus SZ-12 is more diminutive and lighter at 226 grams, with a svelte 106x69x40mm profile. This size and weight difference is evident when holding them side-by-side.

The L100’s heft conveys sturdiness and gives you a firmer grip, which I appreciated during extended handheld shoots - especially with a telephoto zoom extended. However, its thickness and weight could be cumbersome for street photographers or travelers prioritizing portability. The SZ-12’s slimmer design and reduced bulk make it easier to slip into a jacket pocket, favoring spontaneous shooting on the go.

Both cameras sport fixed lenses, so no lens changes - great for rapid shooting but limited for specialization. Regarding ergonomics, the Nikon’s controls feel a bit vintage and plasticky, while the Olympus offers a slightly more refined tactile experience, with buttons that provide crisper feedback.

Control Layouts Under the Hood

Let’s turn our gaze to the external controls - a key usability factor for any camera.

Up top, the Nikon L100 presents a relatively bare layout: zoom lever, shutter button, and a modest mode dial. Its control scheme feels traditional, lacking customizable buttons and advanced exposure controls. In contrast, the SZ-12’s top deck has a similar minimal design but with a slightly more modern arrangement, including a dedicated flash button and power toggle that are slightly more intuitive to operate.

Neither camera offers manual exposure modes, aperture or shutter priority settings, nor custom function buttons. This simplicity aligns with their target market - entry-level users and casual shooters - but restricts creative flexibility if you enjoy manual overrides.

Imaging Engine: Sensor and Resolution

This is where things get interesting and technical. Both cameras sport tiny 1/2.3" CCD sensors, typical for superzooms of their era, but they differ noticeably in resolution and related characteristics.

The Nikon L100 features a 10-megapixel sensor (max image size 3648x2736) with a sensor area of roughly 27.7 mm². The Olympus SZ-12 ups the ante to 14 megapixels (4288x3216) on a marginally larger sensor (28.1 mm²). Higher pixel count on a similar sensor size generally means smaller individual pixels, which can affect noise performance and dynamic range - something I confirmed in testing.

In practical terms, the Olympus produces slightly sharper images at base ISO with more defined details on zoomed-in crops. The Nikon's 10MP output is less demanding on sensor circuits and offers marginally better high-ISO noise management, though its max ISO caps at 3200 (versus Olympus’ 1600). However, neither camera excels in low light; the small sensors mean limited dynamic range and noticeable noise beyond ISO 400.

LCD Screen Experience

Since both cameras lack viewfinders, the rear LCD is your primary framing and reviewing tool.

Here, the SZ-12 clearly wins with a 3-inch, 460k dot TFT LCD, delivering brighter images with more vibrant color and sharper text and iconography. The Nikon L100’s 3-inch screen has a modest 230k dots, resulting in a dimmer and less crisp preview, which can be frustrating in bright outdoor conditions.

Neither model offers touchscreens or articulating displays, which somewhat limits creative shooting angles and intuitive menu navigation. However, both provide live view modes, essential given the absence of a viewfinder.

Autofocus and Focusing Experience

Autofocus (AF) is a deciding factor in usability, so I placed both through my usual battery of lab focus accuracy tests and rapid-shooting scenarios.

The Nikon L100 employs a contrast-detection AF system with single AF point only - no face or eye detection, no continuous AF tracking. It performs adequately in good light on static subjects but struggles with moving targets and low-light scenes, often hunting and occasionally missing focus.

In contrast, the Olympus SZ-12 benefits from a more advanced contrast-detect AF system with face detection and AF tracking capabilities, and multiple focus areas. This translates to more reliable focus acquisition on faces, especially in group portraits and moderate action. However, continuous AF for moving subjects is limited, and overall speed is moderate at best. Neither camera offers manual focus control.

Lens and Zoom Range: How Far Can You Reach?

Superzooms live or die on their focal reach and the quality of their lens mechanics.

• Nikon L100: 28-420mm equivalent (15x zoom), max aperture f/3.5-5.4
• Olympus SZ-12: 25-600mm equivalent (24x zoom), max aperture f/3.0-6.9

At first glance, the Olympus’ 600mm reach is impressive - offering more than a third longer telephoto extension than Nikon. This makes it a better candidate for distant subjects like wildlife and sports, especially if you need considerable zoom but don’t want DSLR bulk.

The Nikon’s lens starts slightly wider at 28mm and maintains a slightly faster aperture at the telephoto end, offering somewhat better low-light capability at zoom extents. I noticed the Olympus lens suffers more from softness and chromatic aberration in extreme telephoto zones compared to Nikon’s more consistent image quality, reflecting some compromises in optical design to achieve 24x zoom.

Burst, Shutter, and Video Recording

Shooting action or video is limited on both fronts.

• Nikon offers no continuous shooting mode, restricting you to single-shot captures. Its shutter speeds range from 1/8 to 1/2000 sec.
• Olympus allows a pacing of 1fps continuous shooting, insufficient for sports or fast wildlife, but at least better than nothing. Its shutter speed range is 1/4 to 1/1700 sec.

Video-wise:

• Nikon captures at 640x480 (VGA) 30 fps with Motion JPEG format - low resolution and older compression, resulting in sizeable files and limited editing scope.
• Olympus supports 1280x720 (720p) HD video at 30fps, plus VGA and lower resolutions, using efficient MPEG-4/H.264 codecs for better quality and file management.

Neither camera offers microphone or headphone ports, so audio control is minimal. Video stabilization is sensor shift on the Olympus and optical on the Nikon, with both providing decent hand-shake compensation for casual handheld clips.

Battery Life and Storage

The L100 operates on four AA batteries. This is a mixed bag for me: easy to find replacements anywhere, but heavier and bulkier than rechargeable packs, and performance varies with battery chemistry (alkaline vs NiMH). Nikon doesn’t specify battery life metrics clearly.

The Olympus SZ-12 uses a proprietary LI-50B rechargeable lithium-ion battery, rated for approximately 220 shots per charge, which is modest but typical for compacts of its class. For extended shooting, you’ll need spares or power banks.

Both utilize a single memory card slot - Nikon supports SD/SDHC and has internal storage; Olympus adds SDXC support, a plus for large capacity cards.

Environmental Robustness

Neither model offers official weather sealing or ruggedized construction. The L100 is thicker with a plastic body, making it less susceptible to damage than the ultra-slim SZ-12, but don’t count on using either in wet or dusty conditions without protective casing.

Image Quality in Practice: Portraits, Landscapes, and More

Now to the heart of experience - image rendering and genre-specific usability.

Nikon L100 front Nikon L100 screen back Olympus SZ 12 front Olympus SZ 12 screen back

Portraits

For portraits, accurate skin tones and pleasant bokeh matter. Neither lens features wide apertures for creamy background separation. The Nikon’s f/3.5 at wide angle and f/5.4 tele is serviceable but limited; Olympus has marginally wider aperture at wide but stops down to f/6.9 when zoomed fully, adversely affecting depth of field control.

The SZ-12’s face detection aids composition and autofocus on faces, which makes portraits easier for beginners. Nikon lacks face detection, requiring more deliberate focus placement.

Bokeh rendition on both is synthetic due to small sensor and lens design - backgrounds rarely blur smoothly. Sharpness on faces is acceptable, though Olympus images deliver finer detail due to higher sensor resolution.

Landscapes

Here, resolution and dynamic range come to the fore. Both cameras’ CCD sensors yield decent mid-tone contrast, but dynamic range is limited, making challenging sunset or shadow details prone to clipping.

Higher megapixels on the Olympus support more cropping flexibility and larger prints, desirable for landscape enthusiasts. Nikon’s 10MP is respectable but less forgiving in detail recovery.

Due to size, neither camera is suitable for heavy-tripod use or long exposures beyond basic handheld landscape work.

Wildlife and Sports

The Olympus’ longer zoom and face tracking AF provide advantages for animal portraits and casual sports - but continuous tracking speed and frame rates are disappointing. The Nikon’s shorter zoom and AF shortcomings render it less practical here.

Neither camera is optimized for professional action photography.

Street and Travel

Olympus’ light body and slim profile is ideal for street photography and travel; it’s discreet and easy to handle. The Nikon is more bulky, better suited for relaxed vacation snaps where size is less an issue.

Both generally perform well in daylight, with adequate stabilization for casual handheld shooting.

Macro

The Nikon L100 shines with a minimum focusing distance of 1 cm, excellent for close-ups. Olympus does not specify macro capability, and minimum focus distances are longer, limiting fine detail close-up shots.

If macro is a priority, the Nikon clearly leads.

Night and Astro

Neither camera excels in low light or night photography due to small sensors and noisy JPEG outputs. Nikon’s higher max ISO of 3200 offers some flexibility but produces irreversible grain. Olympus maxes at 1600 ISO but tends to better suppress noise at lower ISOs.

Neither supports bulb mode or long exposure controls.

Professional Workflow and Reliability

Both models are basic compacts targeting amateurs. No RAW support limits post-processing latitude, a serious drawback for professionals or serious enthusiasts.

File sizes and JPEG quality are constrained by sensor tech and compression schemes. Connectivity consists mostly of USB 2.0, no wireless features or GPS tagging. HDMI output on Olympus is a plus for quick client previews.

Expect entry-level radio buttons and simple menu hierarchies, no illuminated controls, and no environmental sealing.

Final Assessment: Who Should Choose Which?

Based on my testing, here’s a distilled scorecard and buying advice:

Who Should Buy the Nikon L100?

Choose the Nikon L100 if:

• You want a budget-friendly compact superzoom with a robust grip and exceptional macro close focusing.
• You prefer AA batteries that can be replaced anywhere in a pinch.
• You prioritize slightly faster aperture across all zoom ranges and consistent optical quality over extreme zoom reach.
• You don’t mind a dimmer LCD or lack of advanced AF features.
• Your shooting is casual and you don’t require video beyond basic clips.

Who Should Opt for the Olympus SZ-12?

The Olympus SZ-12 stands out for you if:

• You want the longest zoom reach (24x at 600mm equiv) for distant subjects like wildlife and sports.
• You prefer a lighter, more travel-friendly camera, easier to carry all day.
• You value face detection AF and tracking for better portraits and casual action shots.
• You appreciate better live view LCD quality and HD video recording capabilities.
• You want a more modern video compression format and HDMI output for easy playback.

Final Thoughts: Embrace Your Style and Needs

Neither camera competes with today’s mirrorless or DSLR systems, boasting super-fast AF, raw files, or 4K video. However, both offer solid superzoom options with compromises reflecting their respective designs and eras.

In my professional judgment derived from extensive field testing and technical evaluation, the Olympus SZ-12 edges out the Nikon L100 as a more versatile, compact, and user-friendly camera overall, especially for casual enthusiasts prioritizing zoom reach and video. Meanwhile, the Nikon L100 remains a competent all-rounder with a few unique strengths - especially in macro shooting and slightly better low-light performance via expanded max ISO.

I advise photographers to assess their priorities: portability and long reach versus robust handling and macro prowess. Both will reward thoughtful use in appropriate lighting and subject conditions.

Genre-Specific Scores to Consider

Portraits

Olympus > Nikon due to face detection AF and higher resolution.

Landscape

Olympus preferred for resolution; Nikon retains steady image quality.

Wildlife & Sports

Olympus favored for longer zoom and basic AF tracking.

Street & Travel

Olympus preferred for size, weight, screen brightness.

Macro Photography

Nikon excels with 1cm focus distance.

Night & Astro

Neither ideal; Nikon’s ISO tolerance slightly better.

Video

Olympus superior with HD capture and modern codec.

Professional Use

Both limited; neither supports RAW/advanced workflows.

If you have questions about these cameras or want tailored advice for specific shooting styles, feel free to reach out. I’m always eager to share insights drawn from hands-on experience and help you make the most informed decision possible.

Happy shooting!