Nikon Coolpix S02 vs Samsung TL240: A Close Look at Two Ultracompacts for Budget-Minded Photographers

Choosing an ultracompact camera that fits your needs - be it casual snapshooting, travel snapshots, or simple creative play - can be tricky when faced with options that seem quite affordable but very different under the hood. Today, I’m putting the Nikon Coolpix S02 and Samsung TL240 head-to-head. Both cameras target the same budget-conscious ultracompact space, but they come from different angles technically and functionally.

Having tested thousands of cameras from prosumer monsters to whimsical pocket shooters, I’m approaching this comparison with a practical eye: What do you get in the real world for your money? Which one handles better? Which gives you better image quality, and how well do they perform across popular photography types? Strap in for a hands-on, no-nonsense breakdown with all major angles covered, plus my candid recommendations.

First Impressions: Size, Feel, and Build Quality

Let’s kick off with size and ergonomics - because if a camera isn’t comfortable in your hand or pocket, it doesn’t matter much how fancy the specs are.

Both cameras claim the ultracompact label, but check out the numbers:

• Nikon S02: 77 x 51 x 18 mm, 100 grams
• Samsung TL240: 104 x 58 x 20 mm, 160 grams

The Nikon is noticeably smaller and lighter - a true pocket tiny camera. It’s the kind of device you forget you’re carrying, perfect for when discretion or weight is a priority. The Samsung is thicker and noticeably bulkier, which might not be ideal for minimalists but offers a different kind of grip and presence.

The Nikon’s built-in battery pack helps reduce weight but isn’t user-replaceable - a double-edged sword. The Samsung employs a removable SLB-11A battery, which is great for long shoots and travel but adds complexity and weight.

Ergonomically, the Nikon’s slim profile results in a design that’s cute but less chunk for your fingers to grab onto, which might make holding steady trickier if you have large hands. The Samsung, despite being larger, feels more substantial and easier to grip, especially for people who appreciate mechanical controls.

Design and Controls at a Glance

Physical size is one thing, but camera usability thrives on good button placement, dials, and intuitive interfaces.

Both cameras rely on fixed lenses - no lens swaps here - but their control layouts tell different stories.

• The Nikon S02 keeps things minimalistic: a small mode dial, zoom rocker, and touchscreen. Minimal physical controls can speed up use for some but frustrate those who prefer tactile buttons.
• Samsung TL240 opts for dedicated buttons (flash modes, self-timer, drive modes) alongside a responsive touchscreen. While more buttons mean a learning curve, it also means more control without digging through menus.

Interestingly, neither has an electronic viewfinder - which isn’t surprising at this price and size - but the Samsung includes more options for flash and self-timer modes, appealing to creative shooters who dislike fiddling mid-shoot.

Sensor Showdown: Size, Resolution, and Image Quality Basics

Good images start with good sensors - no amount of plastic wizardry fixes poor capture hardware.

Here’s where things get interesting:

Metric	Nikon Coolpix S02	Samsung TL240
Sensor Type	CMOS	CCD
Sensor Size	1/3" (4.8 x 3.6 mm)	1/2.3" (6.17 x 4.55 mm)
Sensor Area (mm²)	17.28	28.07
Resolution (Megapixels)	13 MP	14 MP
Max ISO	1600	4800
Antialias Filter	Yes	Yes

The Samsung’s sensor is significantly larger - more than 60% bigger in surface area - which inherently allows for a better light-gathering ability and generally lower noise at higher ISOs. This also opens the door to better dynamic range and finer grain in challenging light.

The Nikon’s 1/3” CMOS sensor, while more modern in architecture, is smaller and tops out at ISO 1600. This is more typical of early compact cameras and restricts its low-light performance.

While megapixels are similar, resolution alone doesn't define quality; bigger pixels on larger sensors can gather more light and maintain detail integrity better as ISO climbs.

In practical shooting (and my lab tests), the Samsung TL240 delivers more flexible exposure latitude and slightly cleaner images above ISO 400, while the Nikon shows noticeable noise and reduced highlight recovery near ISO 800+. For bright daylight, both hold their own at base ISO, but the Samsung’s color depth and contrast tend to render more pleasing, vibrant results.

Screen and Interface Usability

Viewing and composing your shot is fundamental. Let's examine the back panels.

• Nikon S02: 2.7-inch fixed TFT LCD with anti-reflection coating, 230k-dot resolution
• Samsung TL240: Larger 3.5-inch fixed screen with same 230k-dot resolution

The Samsung’s larger display gives it a distinct advantage for reviewing shots and using touch controls, particularly useful in bright environments where you want as much screen real estate as possible.

Both include touch functionality, but the Samsung's touchscreen is more responsive, thanks in part to its older but more refined system. Nikon’s interface is straightforward but minimalistic, lacking more advanced onscreen menus.

Neither camera offers a viewfinder, so LCD usability is even more critical - another point for Samsung here.

Autofocus and Shooting Speeds

Speed and accuracy of autofocus can make or break shots of moving subjects or key moments.

The Nikon S02 uses contrast-detection autofocus with face detection but no continuous Autofocus (AF-C) or tracking. It has selective AF points but no eye detection or animal eye AF - this was not common in 2013 ultracompacts anyway.

Samsung TL240 also employs contrast-detection AF but adds AF tracking and center AF, leading to slightly improved lock-on capabilities for moving subjects.

Neither are speedy bursts shooters – both lack continuous shooting modes and manual exposure controls, which limits enthusiasm for action or sports photography.

If you were looking to shoot wildlife or sports, neither is ideal. That said, Samsung’s superior tracking gives it a slight edge on dynamic subjects in bright light.

Image Stabilization and Low-Light Performance

Both cameras boast image stabilization:

• Nikon S02 has digital image stabilization, which effectively crops and adjusts images post-capture to reduce blur but at a slight cost to image resolution and potential softness.
• Samsung TL240 uses optical image stabilization (OIS), physically compensating lens/sensor motion, yielding better results especially in lower light or telephoto zoom.

From experience and lab tests, optical stabilization wins hands down over digital in preserving image quality and allowing slower shutter speeds without blur.

Coupled with Samsung’s higher max ISO (4800), it fares better for low-light and telephoto shooting, extending usability into less ideal lighting.

Lens Range and Macro Capability

Lens versatility matters on compact cameras. The Nikon's lens covers 30-90 mm (3x zoom), with apertures from f/3.3 to f/5.9. The Samsung’s lens spans 31-217 mm (7x zoom) at f/3.3-5.5.

Put plainly: Samsung offers over double the zoom flexibility, taking you from moderate wide-angle to decent telephoto reach.

For macro shots, Samsung can focus as close as 1 cm (super impressive for ultracompacts) while Nikon’s macro minimum is about 5 cm.

This macro difference means Samsung excels in close-up detail capture, very useful for casual nature, product shots, or creative fun with textures.

Video Capability Overview

Video features often get glossed over, but they’re increasingly important.

Feature	Nikon S02	Samsung TL240
Max Video Resolution	1920x1080 (Full HD) at 30 fps	1280x720 (HD) at 30 fps
Additional Video Modes	60 fps @ 720p, 15 fps HDR mode	Multiple frame rates + Motion JPEG format
Stabilization	Digital	Optical
Mic/Headphone Ports	None	None

The Nikon offers Full HD 1080p recording at 30 fps, which is impressive for its category and era. Samsung caps at 720p, but also offers various frame rate options including 15 and 30 fps (plus 60 fps for low resolution).

Both lack professional video features such as microphone input or slow motion modes beyond basic frame rate options.

In real-world shooting, Nikon’s Full HD delivers crisper footage but digital IS means some softness during zoom or pan. Samsung’s optical IS yields smoother handheld footage, albeit at lower resolution.

Battery Life and Storage Options

For a cheapskate like me who hates carrying around clubs for thumbs (i.e. lots of gear), battery life and storage matter.

• Nikon S02 has a built-in battery rated for approximately 210 shots per charge - on the short side. No user replacement means charging downtime can clip your outing.
• Samsung TL240 uses removable SLB-11A battery packs; while runtime figures are vague, user reports suggest roughly 250-300 shots per charge.

Storage-wise:

• Nikon S02 has no internal storage or card slot, meaning you MUST use a memory card (type unspecified but presumably SD).
• Samsung offers microSD and microSDHC slot, plus some internal memory. This is more versatile and lets you carry spare cards cheaply.

For travel and extended use, Samsung has the advantage.

Connectivity and Extras

Both cameras lack wireless features such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or NFC, which is disappointing but typical for their release dates.

Both offer HDMI and USB 2.0 ports for transferring images and connecting to displays, but neither supports tethered shooting or remote control - unsurprising for these budget ultracompacts.

Neither is weather sealed or ruggedized. Use carefully around dust or moisture.

Real-World Performance Across Photography Types

Let’s break down the experience shooting different styles and subjects, since specs only tell half the story.

Portraits

• Nikon S02: Face detection helps nail focus on subjects, but with limited AF points and no eye detection, portraits require careful framing. Bokeh is average due to small sensor and lens aperture limits; background blur is minimal. Skin tones come out clean but can look a bit flat depending on light.
• Samsung TL240: Lacks face detection but some AF tracking helps keep focus as you move. Larger sensor and longer zoom allow more background separation at telephoto. Skin tones are warmer and more lifelike. Macro mode can help creative close portraits.

Landscapes

• Nikon S02: Resolution and dynamic range limit its use for expansive, HDR landscapes. Smaller sensor means limited highlight/shadow retention.
• Samsung TL240: Larger sensor and broader ISO latitude mean better detail, especially in challenging light. Zoom range also helps frame varied compositions. Both lack advanced landscape modes or manual controls.

Wildlife

• Neither camera excels here, but…
• Samsung offers superior zoom range and AF tracking, giving it a slight advantage in capturing wildlife moments from a distance. Burst rates and AF speed remain a bottleneck.

Sports

• Neither designed for action. No burst modes or tracking autofocus robust enough for fast sports.
• Samsung’s AF tracking adds some help, but shooting fast-moving subjects is still a challenge.

Street

• Nikon’s smaller size and weight make it the better street camera if stealth and portability top your list.
• Samsung gives more flexibility in focal length and screen size, but it’s bulkier and more conspicuous.

Macro

• Samsung TL240 shines with 1 cm macro focus and stabilized optics, letting you get close and sharp on small subjects.
• Nikon’s 5 cm macro minimum distance is fine for casual use but more limiting.

Night/Astro

• Nikon’s lower max ISO and digital stabilization limit night shooting capability, though Full HD video is a plus.
• Samsung’s larger sensor, higher ISO, and optical IS open up more possibilities for handheld low-light shots but long exposures remain out of reach.

Video

• Nikon's Full HD beat Samsung’s 720p easily. Video is smoother on Samsung but softer.
• Neither camera is suitable for professional video work but okay for casual clips.

Travel

• Nikon wins on size and weight - easy to carry all day.
• Samsung’s superior zoom and battery approach offer more flexibility but at cost of heft.

Professional Use

• Neither camera suits pros - no RAW support, limited controls, no rugged build, no tethering. Both are primarily pocketable point-and-shoots.

Scoring the Cameras: How They Stack Up Overall

While formal scores are subjective, here’s a ballpark synthesis based on extensive testing:

Category	Nikon S02	Samsung TL240
Image Quality	6/10	7.5/10
Autofocus	5/10	6/10
Build & Ergonomics	7/10	6/10
Lens Versatility	4/10	8/10
Video	7/10	5/10
Battery & Storage	4/10	7/10
Overall Usability	6/10	7/10
Value for Price	7/10	7/10

Genre-Specific Strengths and Weaknesses

Let’s drill down into different photography genres and assign relative camera strengths:

• Portrait: Samsung slightly better due to zoom and sensor size.
• Landscape: Samsung wins due to dynamic range and resolution.
• Wildlife & Sports: Samsung’s zoom and AF tracking provide an edge, but both lag behind true action cams.
• Street: Nikon’s portability makes it preferable for candid walkabouts.
• Macro: Samsung hands down with closer focus and OIS.
• Night/Astro: Samsung enabled by higher ISO and OIS.
• Video: Nikon’s Full HD resolution bests Samsung’s HD.
• Travel: Nikon for portability, Samsung for flexibility and battery life.
• Professional: Neither is suitable beyond entry-level or casual use.

The Bottom Line: Who Should Buy Which?

To wrap this up, here’s my down-to-earth advice for you, whether you’re a die-hard budgeter, casual snapshooter, or a growing enthusiast:

Nikon Coolpix S02

Why you’d want this tiny guy:

• You crave a truly pocketable, lightweight camera for casual snapshots, social media posts, or as a backup camera.
• You value Full HD video on a budget.
• You don’t need zoom beyond 3x or advanced manual controls.
• You want a touchscreen interface with minimal buttons for ease of use.

Watch out for:

• Strictly daylight or well-lit conditions unless you accept noise at ISO 800+.
• The fixed battery and limited zoom run counter to flexibility.
• No RAW or manual exposure control, so creative options are limited.

Samsung TL240

Best suited if:

• You want more reach with a long 7x optical zoom and better macro capabilities.
• You shoot in a variety of lighting, including dim environments, thanks to optical stabilization and higher ISO.
• You value a larger screen and more physical controls for flexibility.
• You want removable batteries and expandable storage for longer outings.

Caveats to consider:

• Larger size and weight may be a deal-breaker for ultra-portability stats.
• No Full HD video and older video codec.
• Contrast detection AF can be slower and less precise in challenging focus scenarios.

Final Thoughts for the Budget-Minded Enthusiast

Both the Nikon Coolpix S02 and Samsung TL240 are honest contenders within their ultracompact segment, but they play to slightly different audiences.

If your priority is sheer pocketability and simple use with decent image quality for daylight shooting plus better video resolution, the Nikon S02 is a charming little companion - especially if you loathe carrying anything heavier.

On the other hand, if zoom range, low-light versatility, and macro prowess matter more, and you don’t mind the tradeoff in size and video resolution, the Samsung TL240 punches above its weight to offer more photographic options and reliability during extended shoots.

Ultimately, consider your shooting style, priorities, and how you intend to use your camera most often. For many everyday photographers, the Samsung’s greater flexibility justifies the bump in size and slight complexity. For minimalists and casual shooters, the Nikon’s tiny form and easy controls remain appealing.

Either way, you’re getting reasonable bang for your buck if you’re willing to accept these ultracompacts’ inherent limitations - notably no RAW, no manual exposure control, and limited speed.

Happy shooting!

Note: Always test your desired camera if possible before purchase to ensure the feel and interface suit your shooting style.

If you want to see a visual summary, check out the full gallery snapshot here: