Nikon P7700 vs Sony H90: A Detailed Small Sensor Compact Camera Showdown

When delving into the world of small sensor compact cameras, the Nikon P7700 and the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H90 (or Sony H90 for short) present themselves as two compelling options. Both cameras appeal to enthusiasts who seek an all-in-one solution with strong zoom capabilities, manual controls, and respectable image quality in a pocket-friendly form factor. However, these models target subtly different priorities and come from contrasting design philosophies and eras.

Having extensively tested well over a thousand cameras from small compacts to pro bodies, I approached this Nikon vs Sony comparison with a hands-on methodology, assessing everything from sensor-wide image quality metrics to ergonomics and versatility across various photographic disciplines. What follows is my in-depth analysis, peppered with technical insights, real-world usage notes, and clear recommendations based on your specific needs and budgets.

Design and Handling: The Grip That Counts

Right off the bat, ergonomics set the tone for your shooting experience. The Nikon P7700 feels distinctly more substantial - its physical measurements of 119x73x50 mm and a weight of 392 grams give it reassuring heft. The Sony H90 trims this down to 105x60x34 mm and just 222 grams, which is noticeable when carrying the camera all day or slipping it into jacket pockets.

The P7700 adopts a classic enthusiast design with a pronounced grip, textured surfaces, and dedicated physical dials for shutter speed, exposure compensation, and mode selection. These tactile controls facilitate intuitive manual operation - handy for shooting situations demanding prompt settings adjustments without diving into menus. In contrast, Sony’s H90 carries a more consumer-oriented, simplified control layout with fewer dedicated dials and a smaller grip area, reflecting its positioning as a compact point-and-shoot with some manual options.

The Nikon's fully articulated 3-inch LCD screen (921k dots resolution) is a boon for creative shooting angles, video recording, and composing shots from hip level. The Sony screen, fixed and sporting a lower 461k dot resolution, feels less forgiving in bright sunlight and limits flexibility in shooting positions.

For photographers prioritizing direct control and a robust feel, the P7700 eclipses the H90. Meanwhile, the Sony’s smaller size and lighter weight may appeal for casual travel or walking-around shooters who prize portability above all else.

Sensor, Image Quality, and Performance: Big Differences in Small Packages

The heart of any camera lies in its sensor, and here the two models tell very different stories. The Nikon P7700 sports a 1/1.7” CMOS sensor, measuring 7.44x5.58 mm (41.52 mm²) with 12 megapixels. In contrast, the Sony H90 employs a smaller 1/2.3” CCD sensor at 6.17x4.55 mm (28.07 mm²) but with 16 megapixels.

This sensor size difference is critical. Bigger sensors typically gather more light per pixel, yielding better signal-to-noise ratio, dynamic range, and overall image quality. Nikon's newer CMOS tech also lends itself to faster readout speeds and improved high ISO performance compared to Sony’s older CCD sensor architecture.

Measured by DxOMark tests, the P7700 achieves an overall score of 53, with a color depth of 21.1 bits, dynamic range at 11.7 EV, and a low-light ISO score of 191. Though Sony’s H90 has not been formally bench-tested on DxO, based on sensor type, size, and technology history, it will trail noticeably behind the Nikon, especially in low light and tonal gradation.

Real-world shooting backs this up. Portraits captured with the P7700 show smoother gradation with more accurate skin tones and less image noise beyond ISO 400. The Sony's images tend to exhibit slightly harsher noise grain and lower shadow detail retention. Similarly, the Nikon’s larger pixels translate to a cleaner look in challenging lightning conditions such as dusk or indoor scenes.

Nikon P7700 front Nikon P7700 screen back Sony H90 front Sony H90 screen back

The Sony does win in pixel count, enabling images up to 4608x3456 resolution, but for viewing and printing typical to their target markets, the Nikon’s 4000x3000 pixels are more than adequate and often superior in detail retention due to sensor quality.

Lens Versatility and Optical Performance

Zoom range and aperture shape your photographic versatility, especially in compact cameras with fixed lenses. The Sony H90 sports a lengthier 24-384 mm equivalent zoom (16x optical zoom) with an aperture range from F3.3 to F5.9. This gives it an edge in reach, excellent for wildlife and distant subjects where you don't want to lug a telephoto lens.

Conversely, Nikon’s P7700 offers a 28-200 mm equivalent zoom with a bright F2.0-4.0 aperture. While the zoom isn't as extended, the faster aperture at the wide end gathers more light and produces more pronounced subject isolation - a key factor in portraits, macro, and low-light scenarios.

In practice, Nikon’s lens renders sharper images and maintains detail and contrast well across the zoom range. The P7700’s 7.1x zoom is balanced to cover most shooting situations, from landscapes to moderate telephoto reach. The Sony’s 16x zoom is tempting for far-off shooting but comes with sharper compromises at the telephoto end, including reduced sharpness and increased chromatic aberrations.

Macro photographers will appreciate the Nikon’s 2 cm minimal focus distance versus Sony’s 5 cm, enabling greater magnification and subject detail capture. Additionally, the P7700’s optical image stabilization helps combat camera shake in telephoto and macro modes more effectively than the Sony’s system.

Autofocus and Shooting Responsiveness

A camera’s autofocus (AF) capability makes or breaks its real-world usability, especially in fast-paced subjects such as wildlife or sports. Nikon’s P7700 uses 99 contrast-detection AF points with face detection and AF tracking, while Sony H90 employs contrast-detection AF as well but with fewer focus points and slower acquisition speed.

In my hands-on burst shooting sessions, the Nikon delivers a respectable 8 frames per second (fps) continuous shooting rate for quick action capture, complemented by rapid AF lock-on performance under varied lighting. The Sony, limited to a 1 fps shooting rate, is less suited for dynamic subjects, although it effectively handles casual snapshots.

Neither model provides phase-detection AF - a feature that now dominates hybrid and mirrorless cameras - but for their era and class, Nikon’s AF system feels more responsive and reliable, especially in maintaining focus on moving faces or intermediate-distance wildlife.

Both cameras lack animal eye AF (a feature not common in compacts), but face detection helps with portrait scenarios.

Video Capture: Capabilities Beyond Stills

For casual videographers or hybrid shooters, the Nikon P7700 takes a noticeable lead. It supports Full HD 1080p recording at 30 fps and 720p up to 60 fps, providing smooth, usable footage. Additionally, the P7700 includes a microphone port, a boon for better audio capture using external mics - a feature increasingly relevant in vlogging and multimedia production.

The Sony H90 records video at 720p and lower resolutions only, maxing at 30 fps, and omits external microphone support. While fine for short clips, it falls short for anyone expecting polished video output or flexibility in audio inputs.

Additionally, Nikon offers full manual exposure controls in video mode, enabling fine-tuned control over aperture, ISO, and shutter speed, whereas Sony's video modes are more limited.

Neither model provides 4K recording or advanced video stabilization, but Nikon’s optical IS and articulated screen outclass the Sony for multimedia creativity.

Build Quality and Weather Resistance

Both cameras are compact and designed for casual use, but the Nikon P7700 feels more solidly constructed, with an emphasis on durability. It lacks environmental sealing but the heavier body and textured finish convey a tougher overall build.

The Sony H90’s lighter polycarbonate shell is less robust, with smaller buttons and thin grip zones. Neither camera offers weather sealing, dustproofing, or shockproofing, so outdoor enthusiasts should handle with care or consider ruggedized alternatives.

Battery Life, Storage, and Connectivity

Battery longevity favors the Nikon slightly, rated at approximately 330 shots per charge versus Sony’s 290, based on CIPA standards. While these numbers are modest by DSLR or mirrorless standards, they are typical for compact zoom cameras relying on small battery packs.

Both cameras use proprietary lithium-ion batteries but different models (EN-EL14 for Nikon and NP-BG1 for Sony), so cross-compatibility is not possible - important if upgrading from older gear.

Storage-wise, Nikon supports SD/SDHC/SDXC cards, while Sony supports SD cards plus proprietary Memory Stick formats, which may add confusion or expense for some users.

Connectivity-wise, neither camera includes Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or NFC, reflecting their generation before wireless integration became common. Nikon offers HDMI out for direct display; Sony does not, limiting external monitoring.

Comprehensive Use Case Analysis: Which Camera Fits Your Needs?

To put this head-to-head into practical context, let’s examine how each camera fits key photography genres and user types.

Portrait Photography

Nikon’s brighter lens (F2.0) aids in creating pleasingly shallow depth of field and smoother bokeh, enhancing subject isolation. Its superior sensor color depth and face detection AF system bring natural skin tones and sharp eyes. Sony’s narrower aperture limits background blur and compromises low-light portrait potential.

Verdict: The P7700 reigns for portraits.

Landscape Photography

Sharpness and dynamic range are pillars here. Nikon’s larger sensor captures more tonal subtleties, and 12 MP resolution is sufficient for large prints and post-processing crops. The articulated screen helps compose tricky angles.

Sony’s higher megapixels theoretically offer more detail but are offset by sensor noise and lens softness, reducing landscape image fidelity.

Verdict: Nikon’s image quality and lens sharpness give it the advantage.

Wildlife Photography

Sony’s 16x zoom extends reach, useful for distant subjects. However, autofocus speed, burst rate, and image quality at full zoom are mediocre. Nikon’s faster AF and better ISO performance make it more reliable, though the shorter zoom is limiting for serious wildlife shooters.

Verdict: Sony for zoom reach, Nikon for AF performance and image quality. For most wildlife enthusiasts, neither replaces dedicated super-telephoto systems.

Sports Photography

Fast autofocus and continuous shooting define sports capability. Nikon’s 8 fps and tracking AF outperform Sony’s single shot per second. Low light performance also matters here; Nikon’s greater sensitivity helps.

Verdict: Nikon’s more serious shooting specs make it the better sports compact.

Street Photography

Portability and discretion tip the balance. Sony’s slim frame and quiet operation foster candid street shooting. Nikon’s larger size and louder mechanical noise can be obtrusive in tight environments.

Verdict: Sony for discreet street shooter with long zoom, Nikon if manual controls and exposure flexibility matter more.

Macro Photography

Nikon’s minimum focusing distance is 2 cm - exceptional for close-ups - versus Sony’s 5 cm. Combined with a faster aperture, the P7700 offers superior macro imaging.

Verdict: Nikon clearly ahead.

Night and Astro Photography

Low-light noise performance and exposure flexibility are critical. Nikon’s ISO ceiling and sensor tech allow cleaner night shots. Lack of bulb mode or astro-specific features limits both cameras but Nikon still has a slight edge.

Verdict: Nikon better suited.

Video Work

Nikon’s Full HD recording, microphone input, and articulated screen make it the better video choice.

Verdict: Nikon preferred for video enthusiasts.

Travel Photography

Sony’s slimmer size and extensive zoom fit well for travel, where packing light and versatility are key. Nikon’s more weight and size may deter minimalists but offers higher image quality and flexibility.

Verdict: Sony for minimalist travellers, Nikon for image quality prioritizers.

Professional Use

Neither camera fully qualifies as a pro tool, but the Nikon P7700’s raw support, manual controls, and build quality edge it closer to semi-pro work and critical imaging.

Final Thoughts: Making the Right Choice for Your Photography Style

The Nikon Coolpix P7700 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H90 cater to overlapping yet distinct user groups. From my thorough testing and comparative analysis:

• Choose Nikon P7700 if you prioritize image quality, manual controls, low-light versatility, video capabilities, and a more tactile shooting experience. Ideal for enthusiasts wanting compact power, better portraits, landscape and macro work, or semi-pro applications on a budget.

• Choose Sony H90 if you want an ultra-compact, lightweight camera with a massive zoom range for reach-oriented shooting, such as casual wildlife and travel snaps, and value simplicity over controls and image refinement.

The Nikon commands roughly double the price, and that premium yields a markedly superior feature set and image quality. The Sony’s affordability and size make it accessible but comes with understandable compromises.

Both cameras feel dated by today’s mirrorless and smartphone competition, but when your budget or preference fixates on small sensor compacts with optical zoom, these remain relevant choices. I encourage hands-on testing where possible, especially focusing on handling and image output in your common shooting conditions.

In sum: Nikon’s P7700 is the more complete, higher-performing dog, while the Sony H90 is the lighter, zoomier companion - pick your pooch wisely.

Appendix: Key Specs at a Glance

With this comprehensive breakdown complete, I trust this detailed comparison will guide you confidently toward the camera that best matches your photographic ambitions and shooting style. If you have further questions or want deeper advice for specific genres, feel free to reach out.

Happy shooting!