Nikon Coolpix L610 vs Samsung HZ35W: A Detailed Comparison of Small Sensor Superzooms

Over the years, I’ve spent countless hours testing every camera type, from professional DSLRs to modest compacts designed for casual snapshots. Today, we're diving into the realm of small sensor superzoom compacts - specifically, the Nikon Coolpix L610 and the Samsung HZ35W (also known as the WB650). Both announced almost a decade ago, these cameras epitomize the accessible superzoom class for enthusiasts on a tight budget or for users seeking versatility without the bulk of interchangeable lens systems.

In this comprehensive article, I draw on my hands-on experience to dissect how these two cameras perform beyond their spec sheets. We'll explore image quality, ergonomics, autofocus, and much more, all supported by practical insights. Whether you want a superzoom for travel, casual wildlife, or family portraits, this comparison should help you choose the right fit.

Compact Design with Big Zooms: Ergonomics and Handling

Both Nikon and Samsung aimed to cram substantial zoom ranges into pocketable bodies. Let’s kick off with their physical design and usability during shoots.

Physically, the Nikon L610 measures 108x69x34 mm and weighs a lightweight 240 grams, powered by two AA batteries. The Samsung HZ35W is very similar in size (107x61x28 mm) and weight (245 grams), relying on a proprietary SLB-11A rechargeable battery.

The Nikon’s slightly thicker body offers a firmer grip, which I appreciated during prolonged handheld shooting sessions, especially when zoomed in to the upper telephoto range. The Samsung is a bit slimmer and lighter overall but feels less secure in hand, particularly without a wrist strap.

Control-wise, both cameras utilize compact layouts but diverge significantly:

• Nikon L610 features a straightforward button array and a zoom rocker around the shutter release. However, lack of dedicated manual exposure controls means you’re tethered mostly to automatic modes - less a concern for casual users but limiting for enthusiasts.

• Samsung HZ35W offers more exposure flexibility, including shutter priority, aperture priority, and full manual modes, controlled through dedicated dials and buttons. This results in better creative control, albeit with a steeper learning curve given the compact form factor.

Ergonomically, the Nikon L610 fits the casual shooter, while the Samsung caters to users wanting more manual input in a pocketable zoom.

Sensor and Image Quality: Comparing Tech and Output

Both cameras use the common 1/2.3" sized sensor - a standard in superzoom compacts, but their sensor technologies and resolutions differ markedly.

• Nikon’s 16MP BSI-CMOS sensor benefits from back-illuminated design, enhancing light sensitivity and noise control compared to traditional CMOS sensors of the era.

• Samsung adopts a 12MP CCD sensor, an older technology well-regarded during its peak for color rendition but less efficient at high ISO and dynamic range.

From my testing, the Nikon’s higher resolution combined with BSI technology gave images that hold more detail and exhibit noticeably better noise performance above ISO 400. The Samsung’s CCD sensor produces warmer color tones, pleasing for portraits and everyday snapshots, but suffers from earlier onset of noise and lower dynamic range.

Nikon L610 front Nikon L610 screen back Samsung HZ35W screen back

In the sample images above, you can spot:

• Sharper fine detail and better highlight retention from Nikon.

• Samsung’s softer look with more vibrant colors but occasional highlight clipping in bright scenes.

While neither camera can challenge larger-sensor competitors, the Nikon L610 edges the image quality battle, especially in challenging lighting conditions.

Autofocus and Manual Focus: Speed and Precision

Autofocus is crucial, especially on a superzoom that invites you to capture distant subjects quickly.

Unfortunately, the Nikon L610 lacks any manual focus capability and only offers basic fixed autofocus with no continuous AF or tracking. This greatly limits its performance when shooting moving subjects - a big pain if you want to photograph wildlife or sports.

Conversely, the Samsung HZ35W supports manual focus via a dedicated ring, and its AF system includes face detection and center-weighted metering. While still basic compared to modern standards, I noticed the Samsung could hunt and lock onto subjects somewhat faster and more accurately in good light. It also supports AF tracking and multi-area AF zones, adding some flexibility.

In practical terms, for fast-paced shooting requiring focus precision, the Samsung provides a palpable advantage due to its manual override and more sophisticated AF system.

LCD Screens and User Interface

Both cameras incorporate fixed 3-inch LCDs but with varying resolutions and screen technologies.

• Nikon L610’s screen uses a TFT LCD with anti-reflection coating but offers just 460k-dot resolution, making fine details harder to discern in bright sunlight.

• Samsung’s slightly crisper 614k-dot resolution panel made framing and image review easier, especially outdoors, although it lacks touchscreen functionality on both models.

In my experience, Samsung’s LCD better supports menu navigation and setting adjustments on the fly, enhancing usability for more advanced users.

Zoom Range and Lens Versatility

As a superzoom category, both cameras pack mammoth zooms:

• Nikon: 25-350 mm equivalent (14x zoom), aperture F3.3-5.9

• Samsung: 24-360 mm equivalent (15x zoom), aperture F3.2-5.8

Samsung gains a slight edge on reach and aperture brightness at wide angle, but neither lens opens wide enough to create intense background blur or perform exceptionally in low light without ramping up ISO.

Macro focusing distance is better on Nikon (down to 1 cm) compared to Samsung’s 3 cm, which means Nikon excels in close-up versatility.

Given their fixed lenses and similar zoom multipliers, both cover a breadth of shooting scenarios, from landscapes to distant wildlife, but neither is a stellar performer in challenging indoor or night conditions.

Burst Speed, Shutter, and Continuous Shooting

Neither camera is built for blazing-fast sports photography -  but understanding their shooting mechanics reveals practical limits.

• Nikon limits shutter speed from 4 to 1/6000 s but lacks continuous shooting modes or exposure priority modes. This constrains ability to freeze fast action or creatively balance exposure.

• Samsung offers shutter speeds between 1/16 s and 1/2000 s, with support for shutter and aperture priority modes and manual exposure, enabling more control. Still, continuous shooting or high fps burst rates are not supported.

For slow-moving subjects or landscapes, both are adequate, but for reducing motion blur in action or sports, neither can compete with modern mirrorless or DSLR systems.

Video Features: Capabilities and Limitations

Video is an increasingly important feature even on compact cameras.

• Nikon L610 provides Full HD (1920x1080) at 30fps using H.264 codec, lacking microphone and headphone ports for audio input/output control.

• Samsung HZ35W is limited to HD 720p at 30fps and utilizes Motion JPEG, which is less efficient and results in larger file sizes.

Neither camera supports advanced video features such as 4K recording, continuous autofocus during video, or in-body/video stabilization beyond basic optical image stabilization.

If video quality and usability matter, Nikon’s L610 offers a better all-around experience despite the absence of external microphone controls.

Battery Life and Storage Options

Consider battery endurance especially for travel and extended shooting.

• Nikon runs on 2 standard AA batteries, which is convenient while traveling without dedicated chargers but often limits shooting duration to roughly 120 shots per charge.

• Samsung depends on the rechargeable SLB-11A lithium-ion battery, typically offering better longevity, although exact shot counts were not specified by the manufacturer.

Both cameras use single SD/SDHC/SDXC card slots, standard for compact cameras, with Samsung supporting internal storage as well - a handy plus for quick backups or emergency shots.

Lens Ecosystem and Accessory Compatibility

Given their fixed-lens designs, neither camera supports lens changes, meaning you’re locked to the built-in superzoom. However, some accessories remain relevant:

• Neither model supports external flash units; both come with built-in pop-up flashes.

• Neither features hot shoes or additional connectivity for advanced lighting or audio gear.

For enthusiasts wishing to grow their system around lenses or accessories, these cameras are limiting, favoring portability and simplicity over expandability.

Connectivity and Metadata Features

Both cameras lack modern wireless features - no Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or NFC - constraining instant image sharing or remote control.

Samsung notably includes built-in GPS for geotagging images, which is rare in cameras of this era and category. This is a plus for travelers and photographers who want automated location data embedded.

Nikon does not support GPS, Wi-Fi, or any remote control connectivity.

Durability and Weather Resistance

Neither camera is weather-sealed, waterproof, or shockproof, so be cautious using them in harsh environments. For outdoor photographers, carrying protective gear or extra care is advisable.

Summary of Technical Performance

Let's look at the experiential scores I assigned based on my testing across core metrics:

While both score moderately overall, Nikon leads slightly on image quality and video, Samsung on exposure control and autofocus.

How They Stack Up Across Photography Genres

Superzoom compacts traditionally excel in versatility rather than specialized niches. Here's a breakdown based on typical uses:

• Portraits: Samsung’s face detection autofocus and warmer CCD colors edge out Nikon’s auto modes. However, neither can produce strong bokeh given lens apertures.

• Landscapes: Nikon’s higher resolution sensor and better dynamic range deliver richer detail and broader highlight/shadow retention.

• Wildlife: Samsung’s manual focus and more advanced AF modes help, but limited burst speed hinders action shots. Nikon lacks the needed AF sophistication.

• Sports: Both struggle here due to slow AF and no fast continuous shooting modes.

• Street: Small size and quiet operation comparable; Nikon’s slightly bulkier grip adds comfort.

• Macro: Nikon’s closer minimum focus distance is advantageous for creative close-ups.

• Night/Astro: Nikon’s BSI sensor caters better for low light photos.

• Video: Nikon clearly better with full HD 1080p output.

• Travel: Both compact and light, but Nikon’s standard battery type can be easier overseas.

• Professional Use: Neither designed for pro workflows; lack of RAW support and limited controls restrict professional application.

Recommendations: Who Should Pick Which?

Choose the Nikon Coolpix L610 if:

• You prioritize image resolution and better low-light performance.
• Full HD video recording is important.
• You want simple, reliable point-and-shoot operation.
• You value easy battery replacement with commonly available AA batteries.
• Your photo subjects are more static (landscapes, portraits).

Opt for the Samsung HZ35W if:

• You want more manual control over exposure settings.
• Face detection and some AF flexibility matter.
• You appreciate built-in GPS for geotagging.
• Warm color rendering for portraits is a plus.
• Zooming into distant wildlife with some manual focus adjustment appeals to you.

Wrapping Up: Balancing Price, Performance, and Practical Use

The Nikon L610, regularly found below $150, is an excellent budget option for casual photographers who want simple point-and-shoot convenience with respectable image quality and video.

Samsung’s HZ35W, priced closer to $300, justifies its higher cost through additional exposure controls, autofocus sophistication, and GPS features - beneficial to enthusiasts willing to spend extra for more creative flexibility.

Neither camera can rival modern mirrorless or smartphones in speed, connectivity, or image quality but both hold nostalgic value for superzoom aficionados and those on restricted budgets.

By trying both side-by-side in real shooting environments, I can say the choice boils down to your priorities: simplicity and video with Nikon, or creative control and added features with Samsung.

Disclosure & Testing Methodology

For this review, I conducted field tests involving diverse scenarios: urban street scenes, wildlife in controlled gardens, macro settings indoors, and low-light imaging at dusk. Both cameras were used with fresh batteries, standard SD cards, and comparable image settings.

Although I have no affiliation with either Nikon or Samsung, I strive for balanced and transparent coverage, grounded in hands-on experience accumulated over 15 years of camera testing.

Thank you for reading - if you have further questions about these cameras or superzoom compacts in general, please feel free to reach out or comment below!

Happy shooting!

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