Nikon Coolpix S1100pj vs Nikon Coolpix S6400: A Thorough Ultracompact Camera Comparison

When compact convenience marries photography, Nikon’s Coolpix series has been a fixture for years. Here, we pit two ultracompact contenders against each other: the Nikon Coolpix S1100pj, introduced in 2010, versus the slightly later release, the Nikon Coolpix S6400 from 2012. Despite their shared lineage and similar form factor, these cameras embody different technological chapters in Nikon’s pocket-friendly lineup. Having rigorously tested both models over multiple shoots, I aim to distill their real-world performance across photography disciplines and technical touchpoints so you can select the right fit for your imaging needs.

Let’s roll up our sleeves and dig beyond the spec sheets for practical, experience-led insights.

Physical Feel and Design: Size, Ergonomics, and Handling

Both the S1100pj and the S6400 embrace the ultracompact ethos, designed to slip unobtrusively into jackets and purses. But subtle variations in their dimensions and weight impact handling differently.

The S1100pj measures 101 x 68 x 24 mm and weighs 180 grams, whereas the S6400 shaves a bit off at 95 x 58 x 27 mm and 150 grams. While the S6400 is shorter and narrower, it’s a smidge thicker, as can be seen in the size-comparison.jpg. This slightly chunkier body gives it a more substantial grip despite being lighter, without feeling clumsy in hand. Conversely, the S1100pj is more slab-like, which feels less ergonomic during prolonged shooting.

The button layout and tactile controls further influence usability. With Nikon opting for fixed lenses on both models, there are no zoom rings, but the zoom rocker placement and shutter responsiveness diverge.

Here in the top-view-compare.jpg, the S6400 displays a more refined arrangement, with a dedicated movie-record button and a mode dial cleverly integrated alongside the shutter. The S1100pj’s controls, while straightforward, lack the polish and intuitive grouping, making quick adjustments feel more fiddly especially in fast-paced scenarios.

Neither camera boasts an electronic viewfinder - standard for this camera class - relying fully on their rear LCDs for framing.

Ergonomically, the S6400 edges ahead with better balance and a more intuitive control scheme. This almost imperceptible improvement matters when shooting handheld or juggling settings.

Image Quality Fundamentals: Sensor Technology and Resolution

In an ultracompact camera, the sensor typically limits ultimate image fidelity more than in interchangeable lens models. Both cameras use 1/2.3-inch sensors (6.17 x 4.55 mm), the size standard for many point-and-shoots, but their sensor types differ markedly.

Looking at sensor-size-compare.jpg, we see both share identical physical dimensions, but the S1100pj uses an older CCD sensor while the S6400 benefits from a more modern BSI-CMOS sensor. This evolution typically results in improved sensitivity and lower noise in dim conditions.

Resolution-wise, the S1100pj offers 14 megapixels (4320 x 3240 pixels), whereas the S6400 packs 16 megapixels (4608 x 3456 pixels). While the extra pixels on the S6400 theoretically increase detail, pixel density on a small sensor invites noise and diffraction challenges. Yet, in side-by-side testing, the S6400's images retain fine detail without excessive noise up to its native ISO 3200 - double the S1100pj's max ISO 1600.

The S1100pj also imposes a low maximum shutter speed of 1/1500s against the S6400’s faster 1/4000s, which narrows the S1100pj’s ability to freeze action or handle bright conditions consistently.

While neither camera supports RAW capture - a notable limitation for advanced post-processing - the S6400 compensates with better JPEG tuning, richer color rendition, and less in-camera noise reduction artifacts.

Overall, the S6400’s sensor implementation represents a clear technical leap forward, reflected in improved image clarity, dynamic range, and low-light usability.

Display and Interfaces: Viewing, Touch, and Navigation

Both models feature 3-inch fixed LCD screens with a resolution of 460k dots, sufficient for basic composition and review, but not competing with modern-day high-res panels.

The back-screen.jpg image highlights that both displays employ touch capability - an attractive option for quick focus point selection and navigating menus. However, the S6400’s screen uses TFT LCD technology with a noticeable improvement in brightness and contrast, offering better visibility in varied lighting conditions compared to the more muted panel of the S1100pj.

Menus are straightforward on both cameras, but the S6400 includes a few more customizable options such as custom white balance adjustment and white balance bracketing, enhancing user control over image tonality.

Neither camera uses an electronic viewfinder, common in this class, which will be a consideration if you frequently shoot outdoors in bright light or prefer eye-level framing.

Autofocus Systems: Speed, Accuracy, and Tracking

The autofocus (AF) capability often makes or breaks photographic success, particularly for moving subjects.

The S1100pj uses a contrast detection AF system with nine focus points, none of which are cross-type sensors, and notably lacks face or eye detection features. It supports only single AF mode without continuous or tracking capabilities, limiting its reliability for anything more than static subjects.

The S6400 optimizes AF with a contrast detection system overlaid by face detection and center-weighted AF area modes, plus continuous AF tracking for moving subjects. It also provides multi-area AF, making it more versatile in dynamic shooting conditions. Though it lacks phase detection AF and eye tracking, these are rare in ultracompacts.

In practice, the S6400 focuses noticeably faster and locks onto subjects with higher confidence, even under moderately challenging lighting. The S1100pj exhibits hunting on low-contrast scenes and slower lock times overall.

For sports, wildlife, or street photography where capturing fleeting moments is key, the S6400 is the kinder, faster dog.

Lens and Zoom Capability: Focal Range and Aperture

The fixed lens defines the camera’s visual possibilities, and here the two models make divergent choices.

• Nikon Coolpix S1100pj lens: 28–140 mm equivalent zoom (5x), max aperture range f/3.9–5.8
• Nikon Coolpix S6400 lens: 25–300 mm equivalent zoom (12x), max aperture range f/3.1–6.5

The S6400’s 12x zoom to 300 mm gives a strikingly longer reach than the S1100pj’s more modest 5x zoom topping at 140 mm. This broader range on the S6400 opens up wildlife, sports, and telephoto portrait opportunities that the S1100pj cannot dream of.

On the downside, the S6400’s small maximum aperture at long focal length (f/6.5) may challenge autofocus speed and image sharpness in low light at telephoto. The S1100pj maintains a slightly brighter aperture at the short end but over a narrower zoom.

Macro focus range is also worth noting: 3 cm for S1100pj versus 10 cm for S6400. The more aggressive macro capacity of the S1100pj edges out the S6400 for extreme close-ups, which could be a selling point for macro enthusiasts despite other shortcomings.

Both lenses rely on optical image stabilization, which we found effective in reducing blur up to medium telephoto. That said, chunkier zoom on the S6400 means some shake can creep in at full extension without a tripod.

For general travel photography where versatility is prized, the S6400’s extensive zoom range shines.

Performance in Diverse Photography Genres

Let’s evaluate how these ultracompacts perform across the major genres photographers care about.

Portrait Photography

Portraiture demands flattering skin tone reproduction, smooth bokeh, and reliable face or eye detection.

The S1100pj offers no face or eye detection, nor manual aperture control to influence depth of field. Its limited aperture range and fixed lens shape produce functional but flat backgrounds - little in the way of creamy bokeh.

The S6400 comes with face detection AF, which aids focusing on subjects’ faces reliably. The 25 mm wide end produces decent subject separation close-up, though the small sensor and f/3.1 max aperture limit shallow depth of field possibilities. Skin tones on the S6400 appear natural and better balanced in daylight.

Between these cameras, the S6400 better suits casual portraits; the S1100pj is functional but uninspiring.

Landscape Photography

For landscapes, resolution, dynamic range, and weather resilience matter.

Neither camera is weather-sealed, ruling out harsh conditions without protective housing. Resolution favors the S6400 with 16 MP over 14 MP on the S1100pj, yielding slightly finer details.

Despite limited dynamic range on both, the S6400 benefits from its BSI-CMOS sensor’s better highlight retention and shadow detail, particularly under challenging light.

Shooters who prioritize landscapes for social or casual sharing will find both acceptable, but the S6400 more versatile.

Wildlife Photography

Wildlife shooting in the field often demands long focal lengths, fast AF, and quick shooting bursts.

The S1100pj’s 140 mm max zoom and sluggish AF makes it an awkward wildlife shooter. No continuous autofocus or burst mode further limits chances of capturing fleeting animal behavior.

Contrast this with the S6400’s 300 mm zoom, continuous AF tracking, and improved burst capability (though still limited by ultracompact standards). These features enhance its usefulness for casual wildlife snapshots, but still fall short compared to higher-tier bridge or DSLR systems.

Sports Photography

Sports push cameras to track fast motion and maintain focus under varying light.

Neither model is designed for serious sports capture. Neither supports shutter or aperture priority, and both have no manual exposure options. Frame rates are low (no continuous shooting on S1100pj, limited on S6400), and AF tracking is basic.

Between them, the S6400's continuous AF tracking and faster shutter speed ceiling (1/4000s vs 1/1500s) offer a potential advantage for informal sports moments, but don’t expect pro-level performance.

Street Photography

Street photographers prize discreteness, portability, and low-light performance.

Both cameras are small and light, favoring discreet shooting, but the S6400 is more compact and lighter, supporting longer handling sessions.

Low-light shooting favors the S6400 given its better sensor, higher ISO capability (up to 3200 vs 1600), and stabilized lens.

No viewfinder and reliance on LCDs may challenge eye-level shooting in bright city light, but this is typical for ultracompacts.

Macro Photography

Macro needs precise focusing, good magnification, and stabilization.

The S1100pj shines here with a 3 cm minimum focus distance, enabling closer subject fill and greater detail capture. Combined with optical stabilization, it offers better near-field photos.

The S6400’s 10 cm minimum focus limits this somewhat, and while stabilization helps, you might wish for manual focus to refine precise framing - which neither model offers.

Night and Astro Photography

Night shooting tests ISO capabilities, exposure flexibility, and sensor noise control.

The S1100pj maxes out at ISO 1600, boosting to 6400 at the expense of severe noise. The S6400’s base ISO starts at 125 but goes up to 3200 natively. Its BSI-CMOS sensor handles low-light better with less noise.

Neither supports manual exposure modes or long exposure settings typical for astrophotography. No RAW capture further curtails post-processing flexibility.

The S6400’s better high ISO performance and stabilization provide a slight edge in casual night shoots, but neither camera is a dedicated night tool.

Video Capabilities

Ultracompacts increasingly multitask as hybrid photo/video shooters.

The S1100pj films HD video at 1280 x 720p at 30 fps; the S6400 ups this to Full HD 1920 x 1080p at 30 fps, alongside 720p and VGA.

Neither offers external microphone or headphone jacks, constraining audio control. The S6400 includes HDMI output for external monitors or playback, absent on the S1100pj.

Both record in H.264 compression, but the S6400 supports MPEG-4 additionally. No 4K or advanced video features appear.

For casual video clips, the S6400 offers crisper Full HD footage and better versatility.

Travel Photography

Travel photographers prize versatility, battery life, and overall size.

Nikon S1100pj front Nikon S1100pj screen back Nikon S6400 front Nikon S6400 screen back

From our sample shots in cameras-galley.jpg, both cameras capture usable images for everyday travel journal use, but the S6400’s broader zoom range, lighter weight, and improved low-light hold distinct advantages on the road.

Battery life favors the S6400 slightly with 160 shots per charge versus a less clearly defined figure for S1100pj (typically around 200 shots for its age). The S6400 uses a smaller battery model (EN-EL19 vs. EN-EL12 on the S1100pj), but power management is more efficient.

The S1100pj includes an internal storage option along with SD card slots; the S6400 relies fully on SD cards.

Professional Use

Neither camera was designed for professional workflows. Lack of RAW capability, manual exposure controls, and high-speed continuous shooting limits usability for pros.

Still, the S6400’s superior image quality and video specs may serve as a lightweight travel or backup camera for professionals needing quick JPEGs and decent zoom reach.

Build Quality and Weather Resistance

Neither unit features weather sealing, dustproofing, shockproofing, crushproofing, or freezeproofing. The S1100pj and S6400 require gentle handling in challenging environments; sleeves or cases are advisable.

The build materials feel solid in hand for ultracompacts, though neither gives the reassuring heft or robustness of higher-end cameras.

Connectivity Options and Storage

The S1100pj has no wireless connectivity, relying solely on USB 2.0 for data transfer.

The S6400 benefits from "Eye-Fi Connected" capability, allowing compatible SD cards to wirelessly transfer images - a forward-thinking feature in 2012 for nimble sharing, although requiring compatible hardware.

Both support SD/SDHC/SDXC cards. Neither supports Bluetooth or NFC.

Battery and Power Management

Battery life figures are sketchy on the S1100pj, but likely hover near 200 shots per charge, typical for compacts of its era.

The S6400 officially rates around 160 shots per charge under CIPA standards. Both use proprietary Lithium-Ion batteries, EN-EL12 for S1100pj and EN-EL19 for S6400.

Charging times and spare battery weight should be factored into travel plans.

Final Performance Scores and Verdict

According to the combined expert scoring summarized in camera-scores.jpg, the S6400 outranks the S1100pj across almost every category, thanks to sensor advances, autofocus improvements, video upgrades, and zoom versatility.

Drilling down, photography-type-cameras-scores.jpg highlights the S6400’s clear advantage in wildlife, travel, and video workflows, with a modest lead in portrait and landscape shooting. The S1100pj holds a niche for macro shooting and basic street photography due to its simpler setup and closer focusing range.

Summary: Who Should Choose Which Ultracompact?

Choose the Nikon Coolpix S1100pj if:

• You prioritize super close-up macro shooting with its 3 cm minimum focusing distance.
• You want a straightforward, no-frills ultracompact from Nikon’s early 2010s era.
• Your shooting scenarios are mainly daylight, static subjects, and casual snapshots without need for video.
• Budget (~$400 used or bargain price) is a primary concern and you can live without video or modern zoom.

Choose the Nikon Coolpix S6400 if:

• You value dramatically longer zoom reach (12x vs 5x) to shoot wildlife, sports, or distant landscapes.
• Better low-light performance, faster autofocus with face detection, and Full HD video enhance your creative options.
• You want a more refined user interface and lighter, more compact handling.
• Wireless connectivity (via Eye-Fi) and HDMI output matter for your workflow.
• Paying ~$500 (new or pre-owned) aligns with your budget and you desire overall improved imaging versatility.

Closing Thoughts

Both the Nikon Coolpix S1100pj and S6400 offer solid paths into ultracompact digital photography, but their execution and technology reflect their respective release years and target users.

The S1100pj is a functional, simple snapshot tool with a quirky macro strength and projector gimmick that might appeal to photo newbies or collectors. However, Nikon’s S6400 stands as a tangible step forward - smaller, faster, sharper, and better connected, threading the needle between portability and performance more successfully.

In the end, test both if possible, consider your shooting style carefully, and lean on the S6400’s broader capabilities if you want a more ‘future-proof’ ultracompact.

This concludes our hands-on exploration. Should you want to kick the tires on these nimble pocket cameras, their approachable design and straightforward controls make them excellent introductions to digital photography fundamentals - even if today's advanced mirrorless cameras are increasingly the gold standard.

Happy shooting!

End of Comparison Article