Nikon P7700 vs Panasonic FH27: Hands-On Comparison for Enthusiasts and Pros

In the compact camera arena, two stalwarts from the early 2010s occasionally pop up in discussions: the Nikon Coolpix P7700 and the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH27. Both came at different price points and targeted distinct user groups, yet they share a similar form factor and modest ambitions to squeeze the most from small sensors. Having spent considerable time shooting with these two models side-by-side, I’ll unpack how they compare from the trenches - from sensor tech to autofocus to usability - and which kinds of photographers might still find each relevant.

This comparison is not about claiming a definitive "winner" just because one edges the other in specs. It’s an exploration of real-world pros and cons informed by rigorous testing, seasoned judgment, and the kind of nuanced insight you don’t get by scanning spec sheets alone.

Let’s dive in.

Form Factor and Handling: Size Matters – or Not?

First impressions count, and for many of us, ergonomics shape how we feel about a camera right out of the gate. Both cameras are compact but target somewhat different grips and handling paradigms.

The Nikon P7700, measuring 119 x 73 x 50 mm and weighing 392 grams, is comfortable in the hand with a substantial grip molded into its body. It feels resolute and fairly robust despite its plastic construction - especially notable given it’s not weather-sealed. The fully articulated 3-inch screen with 921k-dot resolution adds to usability, letting you shoot from tricky angles or compose for video self-recording.

The Panasonic FH27 is notably smaller and lighter at 99 x 57 x 28 mm and just 152 grams. It’s a camera you almost forget you have in a jacket pocket - perfect for grab-and-go street photography or travel where minimalism counts. Yet the slim profile and fixed, non-articulated 3-inch screen (with a modest 230k-dot resolution) diminish the flexibility the Nikon offers.

Furthermore, the FH27 feels less substantial in hand, partly due to its simpler build and smaller lens barrel. The touchscreen interface is unusual at this price point but not a full replacement for physical dials; I experienced slight delays or misses in response on occasion.

Ergonomically, Nikon’s more traditional physical controls, competent grip, and articulated screen place it ahead for those who want direct, tactile shooting control or experiment with composition.

The FH27 is ultra-portable and discreet but less intuitive for those used to dials or quick command adjustments.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality: Punching Above the Sensor Class

Image quality ultimately defines photographic value. Here our cameras clearly diverge on sensor technology and raw IQ.

The Nikon P7700 houses a 1/1.7" CMOS sensor with 12 MP resolution. While the pixel count isn’t lofty by modern standards, this sensor offers respectable performance in color depth and dynamic range for its class. With a DxOMark score of 53, this camera clearly outpaces typical compacts from the era, notably delivering 21.1 bits color depth and 11.7 EV dynamic range - a boon when preserving highlight and shadow information in challenging light. The max native ISO is 1600, but the camera can boost to ISO 6400 at some image quality cost.

On paper and in practice, the P7700’s sensor holds well for landscapes and portraits where color fidelity and fine tonal gradations matter.

Contrast this with the FH27’s 1/2.3" CCD sensor sporting 16 MP, squeezed into an area about 27.72 mm². CCDs from this generation traditionally render pleasant colors but fall short in low-light and dynamic range. Without formal DxOMark data, my tests confirmed limited highlight retention and quicker noise onset - best kept at ISO 100–200. Its max native ISO of 6400 is more of a number than a practical setting for usable images.

The Nikon survives high-contrast scenes better and can eke out usable results at higher ISOs, making it friendlier to demanding genres like landscape or indoor events.

If resolution is your highest priority, the FH27’s 16 MP sensor offers a slight pixel advantage, but detail rendering is compromised by noise and detail smearing at elevation.

Autofocus and Shooting Performance: Steady vs. Simple

A camera’s ability to focus accurately and quickly is crucial in capturing fleeting moments, especially given the P7700 hovers near “enthusiast” territory and the FH27 targets casual shooting.

The Nikon P7700 impresses with a 99-point contrast-detection AF system. Although it lacks phase detection, the P7700’s hybrid tracking and face detection are competent in changing light and active scenes. In practice, I found autofocus lag minimal when shooting portraits or street scenarios, with reliable eye-detection aiding sharp focusing on faces. Burst shooting at 8 fps provides enough capture speed for basic sports or wildlife subjects at modest distances.

By contrast, the Panasonic FH27’s AF system is a simpler affair with just 11 focus points and exclusive contrast detection. While face detection works reasonably, it doesn’t match the Nikon for tracking accuracy or speed. Continuous shooting is limited to 4 fps, hampering your chances to capture decisive moments.

Both cameras lag behind modern mirrorless and DSLR autofocus systems in responsiveness, a testament to their age. Still, the P7700’s autofocus is sharper and faster, giving it a competitive edge for photo enthusiasts wanting control over focus precision.

Exposure, Controls, and User Interface: Pro Features vs. Simplicity

One of the key differentiators for the Nikon P7700 is its provision of advanced manual controls. Its range of exposure modes (including shutter and aperture priority, full manual, exposure compensation) mirrors DSLRs and grants more creative flexibility in varied lighting.

In the field, this means you can shoot shallow depth-of-field portraits or long exposures for landscapes, tweaking parameters on the fly without hunting menus. The camera supports raw shooting, which is invaluable for editing latitude.

The FH27, meanwhile, is a point-and-shoot affair with no manual exposure modes. Controls are minimalistic; the touchscreen handles menus and AF point selection but cannot replicate the tactile feeling or speed of dedicated dials. No raw capability further restricts post processing options.

For photographers used to DSLR-style control or shooting in mixed lighting scenarios, the P7700’s interface, though not perfect, offers a satisfying level of command. The FH27 caters to users who prefer fully automatic or beginner-friendly operation without the fuss of manual fiddling.

Lens and Zoom: Brightness Trumps Reach

The Nikon P7700 sports a fixed 28-200mm equivalent zoom (7.1x optical) with a bright aperture ranging from f/2.0 at wide angle to f/4.0 at telephoto. This fast (for a compact) lens is a feature that really drives image quality gains, improving low light performance and shallow depth-of-field capability, important in portrait and macro settings.

The Panasonic FH27’s 28-224mm zoom stretches farther optically (8x), but the aperture ranges from f/3.3 to f/5.9 - significantly slower. This means it lets in less light, reducing potential for background blur and making it tougher to shoot in dim conditions without motion blur or noise.

In practice, the Nikon’s lens offered noticeably crisper edges, better definition in backgrounds, and more creative framing flexibility. The FH27 is the more "reachy" option, but the trade-off is visible softness and compromised bokeh quality at the long end.

Video Capabilities: Full HD vs. Modest HD

For casual videographers or vloggers, video specs matter.

The Nikon P7700 can record Full HD 1080p video at 30 fps and 720p at 60 fps, using efficient MPEG-4/H.264 compression. It also features an external mic port for improved audio capture and optical image stabilization to smooth handheld footage.

The FH27 is limited to 720p video at 24 fps in Motion JPEG format, which is less efficient and leads to larger files. No mic input or HDMI out further curtail its usefulness as a serious video tool.

Though neither camera rivals modern video-centric models, the P7700’s better frame rates, stabilization, and audio options make it a substantially more versatile hybrid shooter.

Battery Life and Storage: Practical Considerations

Shooting on location demands reliable battery life and storage compatibility.

The Nikon P7700 uses the EN-EL14 rechargeable battery, rated for about 330 shots per charge under CIPA conditions - a respectable figure supported by real-world experience if you keep the LCD usage moderate.

The Panasonic FH27, relying on an internal battery, manages about 250 shots per charge, shorter but still satisfactory for casual snapshots.

Both cameras accept SD/SDHC/SDXC cards, but only the Nikon supports higher capacity cards confidently due to sturdier firmware support.

Connectivity and Extras: Minimalism vs. Functionality

Neither camera attempts to lead in wireless or connectivity features. Both lack Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or GPS onboard, though Nikon offered an optional GPS module for the P7700.

The Panasonic does feature a touchscreen - a novelty at its launch - but no HDMI output, unlike the Nikon’s mini HDMI port, which benefits tethered workflows or playback on larger screens.

Real-World Shooting Genres: Where Each Shines

Here is where I dissect each camera’s practical strengths across popular photography categories:

Portrait Photography

Nikon’s brighter lens and better autofocus (face and eye detection) take the lead here. The P7700 can render more pleasing skin tones with its superior sensor and allows manual exposure tweaks for better depth control. The FH27 struggles to blur backgrounds effectively or capture sharp facial details under varied lighting.

Landscape Photography

Dynamic range and resolution matter here. The P7700’s CMOS sensor with better DR preserves more scene detail in skies and shadows. Its articulated screen helps composing on uneven terrain. The FH27 fares well in good light but can’t compete on tonal range or highlight retention. Lack of weather sealing on both models restricts extreme outdoor use.

Wildlife Photography

Neither camera is designed primarily for wildlife, but Nikon’s faster continuous shooting (8 fps vs 4 fps) and more robust AF assist better potential for action shots. The 200mm max reach is limiting but workable in controlled conditions. The FH27’s slower operation and weaker autofocus make it a less viable choice here.

Sports Photography

Fast, accurate tracking is critical here. The P7700’s AF system and burst shooting provide a basic toolkit, though still behind DSLRs. The FH27 is too slow and limited for fast sports capture.

Street Photography

FH27’s ultra-compact size and lightweight body make it the stealthier option for street shooters valuing discretion and portability. However, the P7700’s better image quality and faster operation could be preferable if you accept the trade-off in bulk.

Macro Photography

The Nikon allows 2cm close focusing vs. the Panasonic’s 5cm. Combined with its brighter lens and steadier AF, the P7700 wins here for capturing small subjects with detail and isolation.

Night and Astro Photography

High ISO performance and manual modes are key. The Nikon’s sensitivity range and raw capture are strong advantages for nocturnal shooters. The FH27’s sensor noise and lack of manual exposure compromise low-light utility.

Video Shooting

The Nikon is the clear choice for casual video thanks to Full HD capture, mic input, and image stabilization. The FH27 offers basic HD video but lacks professional conveniences.

Travel Photography

If you want a compact, pocketable camera with easy handling, the FH27 fits the bill. For versatile shooting with higher image quality and wider creative control, the P7700’s bigger size and better features justify carrying it on trips.

Professional Use

Both cameras are firmly consumer/enthusiast gear, but the Nikon’s raw workflow, manual control, and better sensor quality could supplement professional kits for casual or backup shooting.

Nikon P7700 front Nikon P7700 screen back Panasonic FH27 screen back

Here we see real-world sample shots illustrating Nikon’s superior color gradation, better noise control in shadows, and richer bokeh, especially in portraits and macro shots. Panasonic images exhibit more noise under cloud cover and less depth in the tonal range.

Overall Performance Ratings

To sum up the technical testing and field evaluations:

• Nikon P7700: 7/10 overall - Strong sensor and lens combo, excellent controls, good AF. Limited by age but still capable.
• Panasonic FH27: 4/10 overall - Favorable size and simplicity, but limited IQ, controls, and features.

Genre-Specific Scores

Highlights:

• Portrait: Nikon 8, Panasonic 4
• Landscape: Nikon 7, Panasonic 4
• Wildlife: Nikon 6, Panasonic 3
• Sports: Nikon 6, Panasonic 2
• Street: Nikon 6, Panasonic 7 (for compactness)
• Macro: Nikon 8, Panasonic 5
• Night/Astro: Nikon 7, Panasonic 3
• Video: Nikon 7, Panasonic 3
• Travel: Nikon 6, Panasonic 8
• Pro Use: Nikon 6, Panasonic 3

Final Verdict: Who Should Buy Which?

Choose the Nikon P7700 if:

• You want a compact camera offering near-enthusiast manual control and raw shooting for flexible post-processing.
• You shoot portraits, landscapes, macro, or night scenes demanding better dynamic range and low-light capability.
• You value faster autofocus and greater video functionality - even if it means a bigger body.
• Your budget allows a mid-range compact offering solid image quality from 2013.

Pick the Panasonic FH27 if:

• Portability and ultra-lightweight pocketability are your highest priorities.
• You prefer fully automatic shooting with a touchscreen interface.
• Casual snapshots and travel convenience trump manual control or raw flexibility.
• You have a limited budget and want simple, point-and-shoot performance.

Closing Thoughts

Both the Nikon P7700 and Panasonic FH27 reflect their manufacturer’s philosophies in an earlier compact camera era: Nikon favored hybrid controls and sensor quality, while Panasonic pushed convenience and lightweight operation. In today’s smartphone-saturated camera landscape, neither holds up as a frontline shooter, but each finds a niche: the P7700 as a capable compact for enthusiasts demanding more control and quality, the FH27 as a no-fuss snapshot companion.

I hope my hands-on insights help you navigate these choices with clarity, reflecting real use beyond specs and marketing blurbs. Each camera tells a story through its design and limitations - a story you can now choose knowingly.

Happy shooting!

Appendix: Camera Quick Specs Table

Thanks for reading! If you have specific shooting scenarios in mind, feel free to ask - camera selection is always a personal journey.