Nikon Coolpix P7700 vs. Nikon Coolpix S9700: A Hands-On, In-Depth Comparison for Enthusiast Photographers

Choosing the right compact camera can feel like navigating a maze - especially when cameras share a manufacturer and come from similar small sensor compact categories, but are designed to serve noticeably different photographic needs. I’ve spent considerable time behind the controls of both the Nikon Coolpix P7700 and the Nikon Coolpix S9700, putting them through rigorous, real-world scenarios to dissect exactly where each shines - and where they might leave you wanting more. Today, I’m sharing everything I’ve learned from direct testing, paired with technical insights that go beyond mere specs sheets.

Let’s embark on this exploration step-by-step, unpacking design, imaging chops, autofocus prowess, and how these machines hold up across diverse genres of photography to help you make an informed purchase - gesture-controlled or not.

How They Feel in Hand: Build, Design, and Ergonomics

The very first thing a camera tells you is through its form factor - how it sits, how well it fits your grip, and how intuitively its controls fall under your fingers.

Nikon P7700: The P7700 is a distinctly robust, comparatively chunky little camera. At 119 x 73 x 50 mm and 392 grams, it’s unmistakably a “serious” compact designed to feel like a miniature DSLR. The substantial grip and the presence of multiple physical dials and buttons create a tactile experience that Nikon enthusiasts will find familiar and reassuring. A fully articulated 3-inch LCD with 921k-dot resolution provides plenty of flexibility for creative angles, including waist-level shots or vlogging faces. The absence of an EVF might be a concern for some, but given its compact system class and price point, that omission feels forgivable.

Nikon S9700: The S9700 is decidedly smaller and lighter at 110 x 64 x 35 mm and 232 grams. This noticeable slimming down suits those prioritizing portability more than manual control luxury. The fixed-type 3-inch LCD also bears 921k dots, but without articulation. Handling is nimble, and pocketability is a major plus here. However, the trade-off emerges in its much more restrained button layout, and lack of manual focus ring or dedicated exposure dials, which might challenge those accustomed to tactile, immediate control.

Looking down from above, the P7700’s dedicated exposing modes dial, zoom ring, and well-positioned shutter release clearly target those who want to juggle settings quickly and precisely. The S9700’s streamlined top plate indicates a design philosophy optimized around simplicity and automated operation rather than granular manual input.

Ergonomics Verdict: If you crave DSLR-like handling in a compact package, the P7700 delivers. For casual shooting and travel with light carry burden, the S9700’s smaller size and fewer controls make it a friendlier companion.

Sensors and Image Quality: Small Sensors’ Limits and Opportunities

This is a classic "small sensor compact" duel, so the sensor size and resolution impact everything from noise performance to detail resolvability.

Nikon P7700: Equipped with a 1/1.7” CMOS sensor measuring about 7.44x5.58mm (roughly 41.5 mm²), the P7700 boasts 12 megapixels with an anti-aliasing filter. Its sensor size pushes the envelope on what small sensor compacts can deliver, trading off resolution in favor of better per-pixel quality, especially in dynamic range and noise. Using DxOMark’s score as a baseline, it achieves a respectable overall score of 53, a color depth of 21.1 bits, a dynamic range of 11.7 EV, and a low-light ISO score of 191. This sensor size and quality bestow the P7700 with richer skin tones, better detail retention in shadows, and cleaner high-ISO images for its class.

Nikon S9700: On the other hand, the S9700 uses a smaller 1/2.3” BSI-CMOS sensor, about 6.17x4.55 mm (~28 mm²), boasting a higher 16-megapixel resolution. This sensor pushes pixel density further, which can mean more noise at higher ISO values and narrower dynamic range. Unfortunately, DxOMark hasn't released scores for this sensor, but experience and typical limitations in this sensor class suggest it will struggle more in low light and highlight recovery. The sensor is paired with a fixed lens with a narrower maximum aperture, limiting light intake.

Real-World Image Quality: The P7700’s larger sensor translates into smoother gradations, more usable ISO range, and better handling of complex lighting situations. Landscape photographers, especially, will notice the greater dynamic range preserving subtle shadow and highlight details.

The S9700’s higher resolution can yield sharper images in plentiful light but with a greater risk of noise artifacts creeping in as ISO rises. For daytime travel snapshots, its zoom reach compensates somewhat for lower image quality at higher ISOs.

Sensor Verdict: For pure image quality, the P7700’s larger sensor and balanced resolution win hands down. The S9700’s sensor is more compact and designed for zoom versatility rather than pristine image fidelity.

Lenses: The All-Important Optics and Zoom Ranges

Optics can make or break the shooting experience - let’s dig into how their lenses stack up.

• Nikon P7700 lens: Equipped with a bright fixed zoom lens spanning 28–200mm (7.1x optical zoom equivalent), with a max aperture from f/2.0 at the wide end to f/4.0 telephoto.

• Nikon S9700 lens: Features an ultra-telephoto 25–750mm equivalent lens - a massive 30x optical zoom with a max aperture range from f/3.7 to f/6.4.

The P7700’s lens lets in substantially more light at 28mm with f/2.0, useful for low-light indoor portraits and controlling depth of field to achieve creamy bokeh. Even at 200mm, a respectable f/4 aperture gives some headroom for hand-held shooting. The lens also boasts a macro focus range down to 2 cm - a boon for close-up work.

Meanwhile, the S9700 covers an extraordinary zoom reach - making it a potential wildlife or long-distance shooter’s compact travel buddy. However, the trade-off is the slower maximum aperture, especially at the telephoto end, making hand-holding challenging beyond daylight and increasing reliance on image stabilization.

Image Stabilization: Both feature optical stabilization, essential considering the f/6.4 aperture at 750mm-equivalent on the S9700.

Lens Verdict: If you prize low-light shooting and background blur (portraiture) over zoom reach, the P7700’s faster lens reigns supreme. For birdwatchers or travelers who want an all-in-one zoom lens, the S9700’s 30x monster zoom serves a niche that few compacts can match - but expect tighter shooting restrictions for sharp shots at the long end.

Autofocus Systems: Eye Detection, Tracking and Precision

Both cameras feature 99 focus points, center-weighted AF, face detection, and AF tracking - but their AF implementations differ due to sensor and hardware constraints.

• The P7700 autofocus relies on contrast-detection AF with face detection but does not include continuous AF or manual focus assistance on the rear screen. It supports AF tracking selectively but without the sophistication of more modern systems.

• The S9700 autofocus also uses contrast-detection with face detection, offers AF tracking, and importantly adds selective autofocus mode, which allows choosing a specific focus point.

From hands-on tests focusing on moving subjects (kids playing, street scenes), the P7700’s AF is slightly faster in well-lit conditions due to its wider aperture lens facilitating faster focus lock. However, in low light, neither camera is a speed demon, and hunting can be noticeable. The S9700’s AF feels a bit slower overall but benefits from the selective focus area, allowing more precise composition in challenging scenarios.

Neither model supports animal eye AF, which is a disappointment for wildlife photographers used to more recent AI-assisted systems.

Autofocus Verdict: The P7700 edges ahead for speed and reliability on portraits and landscapes thanks to its faster lens. The S9700’s flexible focus selection is handy but is hampered by the smaller aperture and sensor size, reducing low-light performance.

User Interface & Rear Screen: Articulated vs. Fixed

A 3-inch 921k-dot rear LCD is common, but usage experiences vary starkly.

The P7700’s articulated screen offers fantastic compositional freedom. I found this invaluable while shooting low ground portraits or awkward framing situations on hikes and urban explorations. The lack of touchscreen is a mild setback but not unusual for 2013-era compacts.

The S9700’s fixed-type TFT LCD with anti-reflection coating delivers decent outdoor visibility but no articulation hampers shooting flexibility - especially at waist or overhead angles. It also lacks touchscreen functionality, which, combined with its simpler controls, leans the camera towards quick point-and-shoot use rather than nuanced creativity.

Interface Verdict: The P7700’s articulation is a standout benefit for creative flexibility. The S9700 prioritizes rugged simplicity, which works well when speed and portability take precedence.

Burst Shooting and Video: Performance and Quality

Continuous shooting rates hover close: 8 frames per second for P7700 and 7 fps for S9700 - not bad for compact cameras in their respective vintage.

• P7700 video recording maxes at 1080p 30 fps, supporting external microphones - a rare perk for compacts of this class - allowing audio enhancement that serious videographers appreciate.

• S9700 video output also provides 1080p capture at multiple frame rates including 60i, 50i, and 30p, but lacks a microphone input, limiting control over audio capture.

Neither camera offers 4K or advanced video features such as focus peaking or zebra patterns.

Test footage from both cameras was relatively smooth, aided by their optical stabilization systems. The P7700’s ability to connect an external mic pushes it ahead for beginners seriously interested in run-and-gun video production.

Battery Life, Storage, and Connectivity

• Battery life: The P7700 uses the EN-EL14 battery rated for 330 shots per charge, outpacing the S9700’s EN-EL12 rated for 300 shots.

• Storage: Both accept SD/SDHC/SDXC cards with a single slot - standard but lacking dual-card redundancy sought by professionals.

• Connectivity: The S9700 edges out here with built-in Wi-Fi and GPS, enabling easy geotagging and wireless image transfer. The P7700, launched earlier, lacks wireless but can add GPS via optional accessories.

In practical use, I found the P7700’s more substantial battery and ports advantageous for longer shooting sessions. The S9700’s wireless features facilitate quick sharing, appealing for social media users and casual shooters.

Putting It All Together: How Each Camera Performs Across Photography Genres

Let’s review how these two compacts stand up in various photographic fields. The detailed performance scores below summarize strengths and weaknesses across genres.

Portrait Photography

The P7700’s faster f/2.0 lens at wide-angle, ability to shoot RAW, and better dynamic range make it a solid pick. Skin tones render naturally, and bokeh at f/2.0 gives nice subject separation.

S9700’s zoom doesn’t help portraiture much; its slower aperture limits low-light performance and background blur.

Landscape Photography

Thanks to higher dynamic range, better noise control, and RAW shooting, the P7700 provides more detail and flexibility for landscapes. Weather sealing is absent in both cameras, so neither is ideal for harsh conditions.

Wildlife & Sports

The S9700’s 30x zoom shines here, allowing distant wildlife to be framed well - provided sufficient light. Its burst shooting cadence is reasonable, but AF lags behind dedicated speed shooters.

P7700’s 7.1x zoom is limiting telephoto-wise, but its quicker aperture and slightly better AF tracking help for some sports action in good light.

Street & Travel Photography

S9700’s compact size and zoom versatility fits street and travel photo needs nicely, but limited tactile controls reduce creative agility.

P7700 fares better ergonomically and offers more intuitive manual control - favored by street shooters wanting fast reaction times and creative freedom.

Macro Photography

Both cameras have respectable macro range. P7700’s 2cm close focus with a fast lens capsulates delicate detail better, while S9700’s 1cm macro focus distance is impressive considering its size, though reduced aperture tightens DOF excessively.

Night & Astro Photography

Neither camera excels for astro, owing to sensor and ISO restrictions. The P7700’s wider aperture and better ISO performance give it a slight edge for night scenes.

Video

P7700’s external microphone port and 1080p filming at 30fps plus 720p at 60fps cater to amateurs who want simple but improved video production.

S9700’s lack of mic input and lower max shutter speed curtails video promise, although varied frame rates add some flexibility.

Professional Work

Both cameras target enthusiasts rather than pros, but the P7700’s RAW support, robust controls, and faster lens could substitute well as a second-body compact.

The S9700 serves better as a pocketable backup, with GPS and wireless making quick sharing feasible on the go.

The Big Picture: Overall Ratings and Value

Here is a summary of the cameras’ overall performance metrics as per extensive testing and benchmark scoring.

• Nikon Coolpix P7700: Overall Score 53 (DxOMark-based metrics and hands-on analysis confirm solid image quality and working flexibility for serious amateurs.)

• Nikon Coolpix S9700: DxOMark not tested, but our real-world testing suggests it ranks lower in image quality but higher for zoom versatility and portability.

Pricing: The P7700 typically retails around $499, while the S9700 offers a more budget-friendly entry at about $350. This price difference factors meaningfully into decision-making for casual versus dedicated users.

Conclusions: Who Should Buy Which Camera?

When you zoom out, the Nikon Coolpix P7700 and S9700 are carefully engineered solutions for diverging use cases. Here’s my candid advice based on what we’ve covered:

Choose the Nikon Coolpix P7700 if you:

• Desire a compact with DSLR-like control schemes - dedicated dials, manual focus ring.
• Require superior image quality with a larger sensor and robust RAW capture.
• Shoot portraits, landscapes, or night scenes where lens speed and dynamic range matter.
• Want articulated LCD flexibility for creative compositions.
• Plan to engage in basic but serious video work with external audio support.

Consider the Nikon Coolpix S9700 if you:

• Prioritize compact portability with a powerful 30x zoom lens.
• Need integrated GPS tagging and Wi-Fi connectivity for social sharing or travel.
• Value a grab-and-go point-and-shoot experience without needing advanced manual controls.
• Shoot distant subjects occasionally but mostly in bright daylight.
• Have a tighter budget and want a capable bridge-style compact.

Sharing Some Sample Images for a Visual Summary

To better illustrate what each camera is capable of producing, here are side-by-side sample shots collected from field tests across various lighting and subjects.

Nikon P7700 front Nikon P7700 screen back Nikon S9700 front Nikon S9700 screen back

You’ll notice the P7700’s shots exhibit smoother tonal transitions and better low light clarity, while the S9700’s images capture subjects at remarkable telephoto distances, albeit with some noise creeping in.

Final Thoughts: A Compact Camera for Every Enthusiast’s Pocket

.My years of testing cameras - from full-frame beasts to tiny compacts - show this: there’s no universal ‘best’ camera, only what suits your shooting style, aesthetic, and workflow.

The Nikon Coolpix P7700 holds its own as a well-built enthusiast compact, blending solid image quality, tactile controls, and flexible handling in a robust body. It is a reliable partner for disciplined photographers who appreciate manual control and image fidelity in a pocketable form.

The Nikon Coolpix S9700, meanwhile, carves out a niche as a travel-friendly, ultra-zoom compact that stretches the boundaries of what a camera its size can frame visually. Its compromises in image quality and control are balanced by its extreme focal length range and connectivity features - perfect for snapshots with a reach never expected from a tiny camera.

Both mark evolutionary points in Nikon’s small sensor compact line - remember the P7700 replaced the P7100 and was succeeded by the P7800, while the S9700 gently nudged ahead from the S9500 towards the S9900.

In closing, your choice should reflect whether you want control and image quality (P7700) or zoom reach and portability (S9700). Either way, you’re getting a thoughtfully engineered camera designed to make photography fun and accessible in different ways.

I hope this detailed, experience-driven comparison helps you decide which Nikon compact to invite on your next photographic adventure. Feel free to share your specific shooting goals - I’m always happy to help tailor recommendations for particular needs. Happy shooting!

For further in-depth reading: Comprehensive specs, image samples, and test data can be found across Nikon forums, DxOMark (for the P7700), and trusted photography review sites to supplement your buying decision.