Nikon P520 vs Sony RX10 II: A Comprehensive Bridge Camera Showdown

When deciding between two superzoom bridge cameras like the Nikon Coolpix P520 and the Sony Cyber-shot RX10 II, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the specs and marketing jargon. Having personally tested both extensively in the last decade, I want to guide you through their core capabilities, real-world handling, and ultimate image quality - beyond just the numbers. Whether you prioritize zoom versatility, low-light performance, or professional-grade video, this comparison will arm you with clear, practical knowledge to make your choice confidently.

Let’s dive in.

First Impressions: Size, Ergonomics, and Controls

The Nikon P520 and Sony RX10 II both adopt the SLR-style bridge design, but their physical presence in hand differs noticeably.

Physically, the RX10 II feels denser and chunkier but still comfortable for prolonged handheld shooting. Its magnesium alloy build exudes durability, paired with dedicated buttons on the top and rear that are well spaced and tactile. By contrast, the P520 is lighter (550 g vs 813 g) and smaller, which may appeal if weight is a concern, but it feels less subdued despite the smaller frame.

Looking down from the top, both cameras layout controls intuitively, yet the Sony takes a more refined approach.

The RX10 II’s electronic viewfinder boasts 2.35M dots with full 100% coverage - noticeably superior to the P520’s more basic EVF. Its dual control dials and quick access buttons lend efficiency for manual-focused users, whereas the P520’s somewhat minimal interface reflects its older generation design. The articulating screens differ too: Nikon’s fully articulated 3.2” screen offers flexibility, especially for macro and creative angles, while Sony’s 3” tilting screen is brighter and boasts higher resolution (1229k dots).

Both cameras lack touchscreens, which feels a bit dated now, but the clarity and viewing angles on Sony’s screen generally pulled ahead in my field tests.

Sensor and Image Quality: The Heart of the Camera

The defining divide between these cameras lies in sensor size and processing power.

The Nikon P520 employs a relatively small 1/2.3-inch BSI-CMOS sensor (6.16 x 4.62 mm) with 18 megapixels. Being a small sensor, it inherently limits dynamic range and high ISO performance. This shows in challenging lighting conditions where shadow detail and noise become apparent at ISO 800 and above.

Contrast that with the RX10 II’s 1-inch BSI-CMOS sensor (13.2 x 8.8 mm) featuring 20 megapixels. The larger sensor enhances dynamic range significantly, approximating APS-C quality in many scenarios. Tested in studio and outdoor shade lighting, the RX10 pulls more detail and richer color gradations, particularly in skin tones and landscapes.

The Sony also supports RAW shooting - crucial for enthusiasts and professionals who want maximum editing latitude. The Nikon P520 lacks RAW support entirely, so you must rely on JPEG processing, which can bottleneck image quality.

Both cameras include anti-aliasing filters to combat moiré, but Sony’s superior processing engine (Bionz X) delivers crisper edges and efficient noise reduction.

Side by side, the RX10 II produces images closer to what you’d expect from a mirrorless camera than a bridge model. The P520 is competent but feels a generation behind in sensor technology.

Zoom Range and Lens Capabilities: Stock Lens Showdown

Superzoom versatility is a highlight of bridge cameras, and here, the Nikon offers an impressive 41.7x focal length range - 24-1000mm equivalent (F3.0-5.9). This is exceptional reach for wildlife or distant subjects, albeit with some image quality compromises at the max telephoto end, as is typical.

The RX10 II features a shorter 8.3x zoom from 24-200mm but impresses with a constant bright F2.8 aperture across the entire range. This makes the Sony superior in low light and delivers shallower depth of field for subject separation at longer focal lengths.

For macro enthusiasts, both cameras focus remarkably close - Nikon down to 1cm and Sony to 3cm. The P520’s extra close focusing is handy, but the RX10’s superior image stabilization and larger sensor provide better clarity and depth rendition in macro shots.

Both feature optical image stabilization, but Sony’s SteadyShot system is generally regarded as more effective, especially handheld at long focal lengths.

Autofocus and Shooting Performance

Autofocus is a critical aspect for wildlife, action, and street photographers.

The Nikon P520 utilizes contrast-detection AF with 9 focus points but lacks continuous autofocus or tracking. This means it can hunt in low light and struggles to keep moving subjects sharp. Face detection is also absent, limiting portrait versatility.

The Sony RX10 II features a more advanced contrast detection AF system with 25 points, including face detection and continuous autofocus modes with tracking capabilities. My tests showed quicker lock-on and more reliable tracking of fast-moving subjects, especially in sports and wildlife settings.

Continuous burst shooting also favors the RX10 II at 14 fps versus 7 fps for the Nikon. This is meaningful for capturing decisive moments in fast-paced shooting.

Video Capabilities: A Clear Win for the Sony RX10 II

When it comes to video, the RX10 II is an enthusiast’s dream compared to the Nikon P520.

The Sony shoots 4K UHD (3840x2160) at 30p with clean HDMI output, microphone/headphone ports for serious audio, and multiple professional codecs (MPEG-4, AVCHD, XAVC S). It also incorporates built-in image stabilization to smooth handheld footage.

Meanwhile, the Nikon P520 tops out at 1080p Full HD at 30 fps without advanced codec options or external audio ports. The absence of 4K is a notable shortcoming for those incorporating video in their workflow.

Both cameras have built-in flash; Sony’s offers extended range and advanced flash modes plus external flash compatibility, which expands creative lighting potential.

Build Quality, Weather Sealing, and Durability

For travel, landscape, and outdoor use, build quality and environmental resistance matter.

The Sony RX10 II features environmental sealing against dust and moisture, a rare benefit in bridge cameras. This contributed to confidence shooting in rain or dusty locales during my field testing.

Nikon’s P520 lacks weather sealing; it’s better suited to fair weather and indoor scenarios, or as a casual walk-around.

The body material of the Sony is magnesium alloy which increases durability, while Nikon uses polycarbonate plastic - lighter but less robust.

Battery Life and Storage

Battery life reflects in real shooting hours achievable per charge.

The RX10 II delivers roughly double the shots per battery charge over the P520 (around 400 vs 200 shots), per CIPA standards. This extended uptime is significant for travel and event shooters unable to recharge frequently.

Both use proprietary lithium-ion packs and offer a single SD/SDHC/SDXC card slot. Sony additionally supports Memory Stick cards. USB charging is only available on the Sony - Nikon relies on an external charger.

Connectivity and Wireless Features

For workflow integration and instant sharing, wireless options are important.

The RX10 II includes built-in Wi-Fi with NFC for fast pairing to smartphones and remote control apps, enhancing usability for on-the-go shooting and transferring files.

The Nikon P520 offers optional wireless connectivity via an accessory, making connectivity more cumbersome.

Putting It All Together: Image Galleries and Performance Scores

I’ve included side-by-side sample images illustrating each camera's strengths and weaknesses in different settings - portraits, landscapes, and wildlife. The RX10 II’s superior dynamic range and detail retention are immediately apparent, while the P520 still performs admirably in bright conditions.

Nikon P520 front Nikon P520 screen back Sony RX10 II front Sony RX10 II screen back

Performance metrics compiled from my testing and third-party benchmarks emphasize the Sony’s edge in autofocus speed, video quality, and low-light image noise.

Genre-specific strengths also highlight the Nikon’s mega zoom range favoring distant wildlife shooters on a budget, whereas the Sony shines for portraits, landscapes, and sport due to its sensor and fast lens.

Discipline-by-Discipline Deep Dive

Portrait Photography

The Sony RX10 II’s combination of a large 1” sensor and constant F2.8 aperture produces luscious bokeh and accurate skin tones. Its reliable face-detection autofocus locks precisely on eyes, yielding sharp portraits even in less-than-ideal lighting.

The Nikon P520 struggles to deliver comparable background separation because of its smaller sensor and slower variable aperture. Its lack of eye detection AF and no RAW support further challenge portrait work, though it can still produce acceptable snapshots in good light.

Landscape Photography

Sony’s RX10 II impresses with higher resolution, extensive dynamic range, and weather sealing - ideal for capturing wide tonal ranges in sunrises, forests, or urban skylines. Its 24mm wide angle and lens sharpness allow critical detail across the frame.

The P520’s wider zoom (up to 1000mm) can be handy for distant landscape features, but its sensor limitations reduce shadow recovery and fine texture rendering. Lack of environmental sealing also restricts rugged outdoor use.

Wildlife Photography

The Nikon P520’s mammoth zoom range is a tempting advantage for budget-conscious wildlife photographers needing super reach. However, its slow autofocus and 7 fps burst limit success rates when tracking moving animals.

Sony’s RX10 II trades range for superior AF, 14 fps shooting, and image quality, enabling faster, more consistent capture of wildlife behavior - particularly in good light.

Sports Photography

Sports demands quick autofocus, high burst rates, and decent ISO performance. The RX10 II’s technology addresses all these and adds face tracking for indoor or evening events. Nikon falls short with sluggish AF and weaker high ISO.

Street Photography

Portability and discretion favor the Nikon P520 due to lighter weight and smaller size. However, the RX10 II’s superior low-light capability and faster AF may outweigh the bulk for street shooters prioritizing image quality.

Macro Photography

Both cameras excel in close focus, but Sony’s superior stabilization and sensor detail give it a slight edge in expression of textures and fine details in macro subjects.

Night and Astro Photography

RX10 II's large sensor and max ISO 12800 (expandable to 25600) provide clean low-noise night shots. Its electronic shutter can reach 1/32000s for exposure control. Nikon’s limitations at ISO 3200 max and slower shutter cap reduce versatility here.

Video Capabilities

Again, Sony leads clearly with 4K recording, pro codecs, and headphone/mic ports. Nikon’s basic Full HD video and no audio inputs are sufficient for casual use, but less so for serious videographers.

Travel Photography

Sony’s longer battery life, weather sealing, and image quality suit travel photographers well. Nikon’s lightweight body and incredible zoom range may appeal for specific trip types focusing on distant subjects without hauling multiple lenses.

Professional Work

For professional use, Sony’s RAW support, lens sharpness, consistent AF, and video options justify the investment. Nikon is better seen as an enthusiast ‘all-in-one’ backup or casual camera.

Technical Recap: What Makes Each Camera Tick

Final Thoughts: Which Camera Should You Choose?

Nikon P520 - Best for Enthusiasts Needing Maximum Zoom on a Budget

If you value extreme zoom reach (up to 1000mm) for casual wildlife or travel and want an affordable entry into bridge cameras, the Nikon P520 still holds decent value. Its fully articulated screen aids creative shooting angles. Just understand compromises in low light, autofocus sophistication, and image quality due to the small sensor and older technology.

Its limitations - no RAW support, weak video, lack of tracking AF, and absence of weather sealing - mean it’s less suited to professional work or demanding environments.

Sony RX10 II - The Bridge Camera that Feels Like a Mirrorless Powerhouse

If image quality, autofocus speed, and video capabilities are top priorities, Sony’s RX10 II is the clear choice. Its large 1-inch sensor, fast constant F2.8 lens, and powerful processor deliver professional-level photos and 4K video in a versatile package.

Weather sealing and extended battery life make it a rugged travel companion. The tradeoff is a higher price and slightly heftier body.

Personal Recommendations Based on Use Case

• Wildlife on a Budget / Travel Zoom: Nikon P520
• Portraits, Landscapes, Video Creation: Sony RX10 II
• Sports and Fast Action: Sony RX10 II
• Street Photography & Portability: Nikon P520 (if zoom is critical)
• Macro & Close-Up Photography: Sony RX10 II for image quality, Nikon P520 for ultra-close focus flexibility
• Night and Astro Photography: Sony RX10 II
• Professional Projects: Sony RX10 II with RAW workflow and advanced video options

I hope this detailed, hands-on comparison gives you confidence in choosing the camera that fits your shooting style and priorities. Both cameras have their merits, but my extensive field tests clearly show how advancements in sensor size, lens quality, autofocus, and video continue to push bridge cameras like the RX10 II closer to the capabilities of mirrorless systems - all while maintaining zoom versatility.

Feel free to explore sample image galleries and performance insights above, and remember: the best camera is the one that inspires you to keep shooting and growing as a photographer.

Happy clicking!

Disclaimer: I have no direct affiliation with Nikon or Sony; these opinions are exclusively based on personal professional testing and experience.