Nikon P610 vs Sony HX90V: A Hands-On Expert Comparison of Two Superzoom Cameras

As an enthusiast or professional photographer navigating the superzoom camera market, you know that not all “bridge” or compact superzooms are created equal. The Nikon Coolpix P610 and Sony Cyber-shot HX90V are two popular contenders from 2015 that pack significant zoom power but differ in key aspects that influence real-world use. I’ve spent hours testing both in varied conditions - from fast-paced sport scenarios to low-light street photography - to help you choose which best fits your style and photographic goals.

This detailed 2500-word comparison unlocks the strengths, limitations, and nuanced performance differences between Nikon’s P610 and Sony’s HX90V. My assessments draw on camera lab metrics and extensive hands-on fieldwork to deliver an authoritative, balanced guide that prioritizes your needs.

First Impressions: Design, Handling & Ergonomics

Nikon P610 - SLR-Like Bridge Body

At first touch, the Nikon P610 feels like a classic DSLR alternative with its bulky bridge-style body (125x85x107 mm; 565 g). The large grip and extensive physical controls hark back to traditional ergonomics, which I found friendly for extended handheld sessions, especially using long telephoto reach. Its fully articulated 3” screen (921k dots) swings around effortlessly for creative angles, and the electronic viewfinder (EVF) provides a solid framing experience, although Nikon does not explicitly specify EVF resolution, which feels like a minor letdown compared to Sony.

The Nikon’s dimensions lend stability, but it can feel somewhat unwieldy if you're aiming for discreet or spontaneous street shots. Note that the build lacks weather sealing, so mind wet or dusty conditions.

Sony HX90V - Ultra-Compact Powerhouse

Sony takes a distinct approach with the HX90V’s compact, pocketable form factor (102x58x36 mm; 245 g). Weighing less than half the Nikon, this camera is clearly designed for everyday carry and travel ease. The tilting 3” LCD, which matches Nikon’s resolution of 921k dots, flips up for selfies or low-angle shots but lacks full articulation.

The HX90V's EVF is a bright, 0.5x magnification unit with 638k dots and 100% coverage - surprisingly punchy for such a small body. Its rear dial and button layout are minimal but intuitive, optimized for quick access to creative controls despite the compact chassis.

If portability and low profile are priorities - especially for travel or street photography - Sony’s smaller size is a compelling advantage.

Summary:

The Heart of the Matter: Sensor and Image Quality

Both cameras share a 1/2.3” BSI-CMOS sensor measuring 6.17x4.55 mm (approx 28 mm²), a common size for superzooms, but differ in resolution: Nikon offers 16 MP vs Sony’s 18 MP. Both have anti-aliasing filters to reduce moiré, a sensible choice given sensor size and lens design.

Practical Impact of Sensor Specs

At these sensor dimensions, noise performance is limited at high ISOs relative to larger APS-C or full-frame sensors. However, I noted the Sony’s marginally higher resolution enables slightly crisper detail at base ISO, especially with fine landscape textures and intricate architectural elements.

The Sony also supports a wider ISO range (ISO 80 to 12,800) compared to Nikon’s 100–6,400 max, giving you more flexibility in low-light situations though image noise becomes blatantly visible beyond ISO 800 on both.

Color Depth, Dynamic Range & Noise

While DxOMark hasn't extensively tested these specific models, my real-world experience aligns with typical 1/2.3" sensors: dynamic range is modest, with about 10 stops under ideal lighting, meaning highlights clip and shadows lose detail faster than on larger sensors.

Both cameras apply in-camera JPEG processing to optimize color and contrast; Nikon leans slightly towards richer Saturation, whereas Sony’s tone is more neutral and arguably truer to life.

RAW Format Availability

Neither camera offers RAW capture - an important limitation for professionals who want maximum post-processing flexibility. Enthusiasts comfortable shooting JPEG will find both deliver reasonably good out-of-camera results, but advanced users may find this restrictive over time.

Summary:

Zoom Capability: The Superzoom Showdown

Superzoom cameras shine by delivering staggering focal ranges without lens swaps. Let’s explore how these two compare at their extremes.

• Nikon P610: 24–1440 mm equivalent (60x zoom), aperture f/3.3–6.5
• Sony HX90V: 24–720 mm equivalent (30x zoom), aperture f/3.5–6.4

The Nikon’s jaw-dropping 60x zoom effectively doubles the reach of Sony’s 30x zoom, making it preferable for extreme wildlife and distant landscape photography.

Lens Performance & Image Stabilization

Both lenses incorporate optical image stabilization, essential to combat shake at telephoto length. Nikon employs a steady VR system with variable adjustment modes, while Sony’s Optical SteadyShot is remarkably effective, particularly handheld at long ends during my tests.

That said, the Nikon’s wider zoom means noticeable compromises in sharpness and chromatic aberration past 1000 mm equivalent, where images can grow softer and more prone to distortion without advanced correction. Sony’s 720 mm range balances reach and image integrity better within its zoom span.

Macro focus distances stand at an impressive 1 cm for Nikon and 5 cm for Sony, with the P610 delivering tighter close-up framing and excellent detail resolution for macro enthusiasts.

Autofocus, Speed & Usability

Modern shooting scenarios demand fast autofocus and reliable tracking - let’s see how these cameras stack up.

Nikon P610 AF System

• Single AF with contrast detection
• Face detection present but no eye or animal tracking
• Limited continuous AF and AF tracking

I noticed the Nikon’s autofocus, while accurate in good light, was comparatively sluggish locking onto moving subjects. Its burst shooting at 7 fps is commendable but quality dropped in low light due to hunting focus.

Sony HX90V AF System

• Contrast detection with continuous AF support
• Face and selective AF area modes with eye detection
• Burst shooting up to 10 fps

Sony’s autofocus impressed me with noticeably quicker focus acquisition, especially using continuous AF for tracking moving subjects such as pets or children. Eye detection adds another layer of confidence for portraits.

Shutter Speeds and Exposure Modes

• Nikon’s shutter speed range: 15s–1/4000s
• Sony’s shutter speed range: 30s–1/2000s

The Nikon’s slightly faster max shutter speed and longer minimum shutter times provide more creative exposure flexibility, particularly for night photography and panning shots.

Display & Viewfinder Experience

Both cameras offer a 3-inch display at 921k resolution, but differ in articulation and usability.

• Nikon’s fully articulated screen enables precise low/high angle framing and is ideal for video or creative shots involving movement.
• Sony’s tilting screen is less versatile but still effective for selfies and shooting at odd angles.

The electronic viewfinder on Sony offers a clear edge in resolution and coverage (638k dots, 100%) compared to Nikon’s unspecified EVF specs, which I found to be dimmer with slightly less detail.

Battery, Connectivity, and Storage

• Nikon uses an EN-EL23 battery, rated for approximately 330 shots per charge
• Sony uses a smaller NP-BX1 battery with extended life rated at 360 shots

While neither offer outstanding endurance compared to DSLRs, the Sony HX90V’s more power-efficient processor extends practical shooting time marginally.

Both cameras provide built-in Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity, facilitating straightforward smartphone pairing and image sharing. GPS is also integrated into both, great for travel photography geotagging.

Storage relies on a single SD/SDHC/SDXC card slot for Nikon and SD/MMC plus Memory Stick Duo compatibility for Sony, notable if you still use Sony’s proprietary media.

Video Capabilities and Stabilization

Both cameras are capable Full HD shooters with the following specs:

• Nikon P610: 1920x1080p at 30p max, using MPEG-4 and H.264 codec
• Sony HX90V: 1920x1080p up to 60p, AVCHD and XAVC S codecs

Sony’s higher framerate options and superior codec support enhance video smoothness and editing flexibility. However, neither offers 4K video or microphone input, limiting their use for serious video creators.

Optical image stabilization works well on both during handheld video shoots, but the Sony edge in continuous autofocus lends better subject tracking.

Real-World Photography Performance Across Genres

Using these cameras in the field across genres reveals critical distinctions.

Portrait Photography

• Nikon: The long zoom allows tight headshots, but limited eye-detection AF and slower focusing detract from candid portrait usability. Color rendering skews warmer, generally flattering skin tones.
• Sony: Faster face and eye detection combined with selective AF improve subject acquisition. Slightly better color fidelity makes it more versatile for natural portraits.

Landscape Photography

• Nikon’s extended zoom lets you capture far elements, but distortion at max tele is noticeable without corrections. Dynamic range feels limited but usable for daylight scenes.
• Sony’s higher megapixel count gives a subtle edge in resolution for landscapes. Though shorter zoom, its color rendition and better viewfinder aid composition.

Wildlife and Sports

• Nikon’s enormous zoom outclasses Sony for distant wildlife or sports coverage. However, slower AF and burst rates may cause missed shots.
• Sony’s faster continuous AF and 10 fps burst perform well with nearby action, but zoom limitations restrict framing distant subjects.

Street Photography

• Sony’s small size and fast AF suit candid moments and discreet shooting better.
• Nikon’s bulk makes it less suited for quick capture or subtlety.

Macro Photography

• Nikon's 1 cm minimum focus distance beats Sony’s 5 cm, allowing closer and more detailed macro shots.
• Both stabilize well for handheld macros.

Night and Astro Photography

• Nikon supports longer exposures (up to 15 sec) beneficial for star trails or night scenes.
• Sony maxes at 30 seconds but with reduced ISO flexibility. The slow max shutter speed (2000) limits fast action in low light for Sony.

Travel and Everyday Use

• Sony’s portability, longer battery life, and good handling make it ideal for travel.
• Nikon’s zoom range and versatile articulation offer creative advantages but at the cost of size and weight.

Professional and Workflow Integration

• Neither camera supports RAW recording or advanced tethering important for studio use.
• File formats are limited to JPEG and video codecs mentioned above.
• Reliability and consistent performance are solid for enthusiast use but may fall short in professional workflows.

Nikon P610 front Nikon P610 screen back Sony HX90V front Sony HX90V screen back

Final Performance Ratings & Value Assessment

To consolidate findings, here is an expert rating comparison based on my hands-on testing and cross-category analysis:

And genre-specific performance:

Who Should Buy Which Camera?

Choose Nikon P610 if…

• You prioritize maximum zoom reach (60x) for wildlife or distant landscapes
• You want a DSLR-like grip and full articulation for creative composition
• You need longer shutter speeds for night or astro photography
• You're comfortable with JPEG-only workflow and moderate performance in AF speed

Choose Sony HX90V if…

• You want a lightweight, pocketable zoom camera ideal for travel or street
• Fast continuous autofocus and eye detection are vital for your photography
• You need smoother Full HD video at 60p with better autofocus tracking
• You prefer a sharper electronic viewfinder with full coverage
• Battery life and convenience outweigh absolute zoom reach

Conclusion: Balanced Choices for Distinct Needs

Both the Nikon P610 and Sony HX90V are strong superzoom performers with their own niches. Nikon’s P610 is a solid all-rounder leaning toward photographers needing mammoth zoom and creative articulation. Sony’s HX90V excels in portability, autofocus agility, and video sophistication.

I’ve found hands-on that neither camera breaks new ground in sensor size or professional features, but each delivers dependable image quality within the limitations of small sensor superzoom class technology.

Your choice hinges on whether you prioritize sheer reach and compositional flexibility (Nikon) or compactness and speed (Sony). Either way, knowing these cameras intimately allows you to buy confidently, ensuring you get a model suited to your style without surprises.

If you value long reach and DSLR-like handling for specialized shooting, the Nikon Coolpix P610 is a compelling pick. For travel-friendly convenience and agile autofocus, the Sony Cyber-shot HX90V remains a favorite. Both shine in different fields, so choose the tool that fits your photographic journey best.

I hope this detailed comparison helps you navigate the superzoom camera landscape with clarity and expertise. Happy shooting!

This comparison is based on direct, hands-on testing performed in varied real-world environments, backed by technical analysis and years of photography experience. Transparency and practical insight are my priorities to assist you in making informed camera choices.