Nikon Coolpix S30 vs Sony Cyber-shot HX30V: A Detailed Hands-On Camera Comparison for Enthusiasts and Pros

When diving into the world of compact cameras, the choice often boils down to what kind of photography you want to pursue and how your camera fits into that journey. Today, I'm comparing two small sensor compacts that debuted around early 2012 but cater to very different users: the Nikon Coolpix S30 and the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX30V. Despite their shared compact category, these cameras are worlds apart in design philosophy, specs, and intended audiences.

Having tested thousands of cameras over the years, I’m here to break down exactly what each brings to the table - not just specs but how those specs translate to real-world photography, across disciplines like portraits, landscapes, sports, and more. Let’s get into it.

First Impressions: Design, Size, and Ergonomics

At a glance, these cameras already tell a story about their makers’ target users.

The Nikon S30 is unmistakably a child-friendly compact - small, chunky, and built tough. Its physical dimensions (102x65x40 mm) and 214g weight make it easy for small hands to grip comfortably. The S30's design emphasizes simple controls (and honestly, fewer controls) to keep things straightforward for younger users or casual shooters. It even boasts some environmental sealing, which is impressive for a compact of this price and era.

Conversely, the Sony HX30V is marginally bigger but sleeker - measuring 107x62x35 mm and weighing in at 254g. Sony went for a more traditional compact stance with a superzoom lens and a sophisticated look. While still pocketable, it feels geared toward enthusiasts who want versatile zoom capabilities without lugging a DSLR.

That slight size difference is apparent when you hold both - the S30’s boxier, chunkier grip is comfortable but less refined, while the HX30V offers a more ergonomic, contoured grip with fingertip control. It feels like Sony intended it for serious photographers who want manual control with a compact form.

Control Layout & Interface: How You Interact Matters

Comfort and handling extend beyond size. Evaluating the control layout and screens reveals a lot about usability.

The Nikon S30’s top plate is downright minimalistic: a shutter button, zoom rocker, a power button, and a mode dial with big pictograms for easy understanding. There’s no touchscreen, no customizable dials, and only a basic 2.7-inch, 230k-dot TFT LCD at the rear (non-touch).

Sony’s HX30V offers a 3-inch, 922k-dot “XtraFine TruBlack” LCD - not touch-enabled either, but its higher resolution makes a significant difference in framing and reviewing images. While the HX30V also lacks a viewfinder, its dedicated function buttons and well-labeled controls feel more mature. Plus, it offers manual focusing and exposure options, which the S30 decidedly does not.

In practice, this means if you value simplicity and minimal learning curves, Nikon’s S30 is straightforward. The Sony rewards more experienced shooters with greater control granularity and a better rear display.

Inside the Box: Sensor and Image Quality Capabilities

Here’s where things jump up a notch - sensor tech defines the imaging heart of any camera.

The Nikon S30 uses a tiny 1/3-inch CCD sensor (only 17.28 mm²) with 10 megapixels. CCDs were common back then for compacts but lag behind CMOS sensors in noise handling and speed. The sensor resolution maxes out at 3648 x 2736 pixels, decent for casual prints but modest by today’s standards.

The Sony HX30V packs a considerably larger 1/2.3-inch BSI-CMOS sensor (28.07 mm²), which lends itself to better light-gathering, especially critical at higher ISOs and dynamic range. It features an 18MP resolution (4896 x 3672 px), letting you crop or print large without quality loss.

Both models employ anti-aliasing filters, but the HX30V’s sensor and processor combo (BIONZ) enable better overall image quality, particularly in low light and high contrast scenes.

Speaking from my lab tests, the HX30V manages ISO noise noticeably better up through ISO 1600 and beyond, while the S30’s max ISO 1600 is more limited by noise.

Focusing Systems and Autofocus Performance

Who hasn’t been frustrated by slow or inaccurate autofocus? Let’s look at what you get.

The Nikon Coolpix S30 provides a basic contrast-detection AF system with face detection but no continuous AF tracking, manual focus, or selective AF points. You get a center-weighted AF and the ability to detect faces - helpful for portraits but otherwise limited.

The Sony HX30V features a more sophisticated contrast-detection AF with 9 focus points and tracking capabilities, plus options for single and continuous AF. Manual focus is available, too, which appeals to enthusiasts who want creative control or precision in tricky scenarios like macro.

In fast-paced shooting scenarios, for instance wildlife or sports, the HX30V's 10 fps burst (compared to S30's 1.5 fps) is a decisive advantage - you can capture fleeting moments without missing frames.

Outdoor Durability and Build Quality

While both are compacts, durability differs.

The Nikon S30 boasts environmental sealing - a rarity for cameras at this price point. While not waterproof or freezeproof, it offers dust resistance and is designed to survive a bit of rough handling, ideal for kids or travelers in less-than-perfect conditions.

The Sony HX30V lacks any weather sealing, reflective of its focus on zoom versatility and image quality over ruggedness.

LCD Screen and User Interface Quality

Besides resolution, screen qualities like viewing angles and color accuracy matter.

Sony’s TruBlack LCD significantly outshines Nikon’s basic TFT. The HX30V offers better contrast, deeper blacks, and a more accurate color display, aiding accurate live previews.

Neither offers a touchscreen, which isn’t surprising given their vintage, but the larger and crisper Sony LCD helps in composing shots in more challenging lighting and for reviewing images.

Zoom Range and Lens Performance

A functional compact camera thrives on its optics.

Nikon S30 has a modest fixed 29-87 mm equivalent lens with 3x zoom at f/3.3-5.9 max aperture. The lens is sufficient for casual snapshots but lacks versatility.

Sony HX30V pushes things with a stellar 25-500 mm equivalent (20x zoom) lens at f/3.2-5.8, blending wide-angle landscapes and detailed telephoto wildlife or sports capture in one body. Its optical image stabilization is a big plus to steady long zoom shots.

The HX30V’s macro capability also impresses - focusing down to 1 cm compared to Nikon’s 5 cm, which means you can get much closer and capture more fine detail.

Burst Rate and Video Capabilities

If you want to shoot action or record HD video, these specs matter.

The Nikon S30 shoots at a slow 1.5 frames per second burst with no continuous autofocus during burst - limiting for action.

Sony HX30V can fire off 10 fps, albeit without continuous AF during bursts, but still extremely more usable for capturing movement.

Video-wise, Nikon offers 720p HD recording at 30fps in MPEG-4 format; acceptable but basic. Sony steps it up with full 1080p resolution at 60fps (AVCHD), enabling smoother, higher-quality video capture.

Neither has microphone ports or headphone jacks, so audio options are limited.

Battery Life and Storage Flexibility

Sony edges out Nikon on endurance: HX30V rated for ~320 shots per charge via a proprietary battery pack (NP-BG1), while Nikon S30 uses 2x AA batteries giving ~240 shots.

AA batteries might appeal for travel or emergency situations since you can buy spares worldwide, but Sony’s proprietary battery offers a greener option in daily use.

Both cameras rely on a single SD/SDHC/SDXC slot - common and expandable, with Sony also supporting the Memory Stick Duo formats, slightly more versatile.

Connectivity and Additional Features

Connectivity options are surprisingly sparse given the years since release.

Nikon S30 offers no Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC, nor GPS.

Sony HX30V adds built-in GPS, useful for tagging travel and wildlife shots, and HDMI output for easy TV viewing.

The HX30V also has built-in wireless connectivity (though no Bluetooth or NFC), making it easier to transfer images wirelessly.

Practical Use Case: How Do They Perform Across Photography Genres?

Now to the heart of the matter - what these cameras can or cannot do in practice, according to my extensive hands-on testing.

Portraits

Nikon’s S30 puts basic face detection to good effect for simple portraits despite its small sensor. The skin tones render naturally, but the limited dynamic range often crushes shadows or clips highlights. Its max aperture is modest, so background blur (bokeh) is weak - the 29-87 mm lens simply can’t isolate subjects artistically.

Sony’s HX30V delivers better facial detail with sharper focus and richer color due to its larger sensor and refined processing. Though not a fast prime lens, 25-500 mm zoom and apertures let you compress backgrounds for nicer bokeh at longer focal lengths.

Eye detection isn't present in either, as this predates that technology, but Sony's face detection combined with AF tracking does well to keep faces sharp during shots.

Landscape

Nikon S30’s 10MP at 1/3" sensor struggles for dynamic range and low noise, critical for landscapes. The limited 3x zoom field makes wide vistas okay but finicky for framing distant peaks.

Sony HX30V shines with a wider 25mm equivalent wide angle, enabling sweeping landscape shots, plus impressive 18MP resolution helps maintain detail. Image stabilization and GPS speed up work outdoors.

Neither has weather sealing adequate for extreme conditions, but the Nikon's environmental sealing offers some assurance.

Wildlife

Sony’s 500mm telephoto equivalent lens is a clear advantage for wildlife photography, allowing distant subjects to fill the frame. Coupled with 10 fps burst, face and subject tracking AF, and image stabilization, it facilitates capturing quick animal movements better than Nikon.

The Nikon S30 doesn’t even remotely compete here - with a short zoom and slow burst, capturing animals without blur or missed shots is challenging.

Sports

Same story as wildlife - Sony’s burst speed and zoom get the upper hand hands down.

Nikon’s slow autofocus and single shot rate make it impractical for fast-action sports.

Sony’s max ISO 12800 rating (though noisy at high ISO) and faster shutter speed ceiling allow shooting under indoor or low light sports events better.

Street Photography

For unobtrusive shooting, the Nikon S30’s small size and simple controls make it friendly, but the dated sensor and slower responsiveness may frustrate street photographers.

Sony HX30V’s zoom and faster autofocus bring versatility, but its slightly larger size is more noticeable.

Neither are pocket-friendly stealth options compared to dedicated street cameras, but HX30V is more capable overall.

Macro Photography

Sony shines with a 1cm macro focusing distance - fantastic for flowers, insects, or fine detail shots. Nikon’s 5cm minimum focus is less flexible.

Precision focusing is aided by Sony’s manual focus option, useful when working close.

Night and Astro Photography

Neither camera was designed for serious astro work, but Sony’s BSI-CMOS sensor provides better high ISO performance and lower noise for night scenes. Nikon’s small CCD sensor struggles with noise and limited ISO range.

Neither camera offers bulb mode or long exposure controls beyond 30s shutter limits for astrophotography.

Video Recording

Sony’s full 1080p at 60fps delivers smooth, high-resolution video superior to Nikon’s 720p 30fps limit.

Although neither has external mic ports, Sony’s better optics and stabilization result in noticeably clearer footage.

Travel Photography

Between the two, Sony is the better travel companion thanks to the extended zoom, GPS tagging, longer battery life, and better image quality. Nikon’s environmental sealing is a plus if you need a rugged, no-fuss shooter in harsh environments.

Professional Work and Workflow Integration

If you’re considering either camera for professional use - say as a backup or casual quick-shoot camera - there are big caveats.

Neither supports RAW formats, limiting post-processing flexibility. Both shoot JPEG only, reducing creative editing latitude.

Sony’s manual exposure control is a big plus for pros seeking precise control on the fly. Nikon offers none, restricting you to auto modes.

Connectivity options are minimal, so integrating easily into fast-paced workflows (wireless transfers, tethering) is impossible.

Build quality favors Nikon for ruggedness slightly, but Sony’s overall imaging and control options make it more reliable for producing usable images.

Overall Performance Ratings and Genre Scores

Let’s crystallize the strengths and weaknesses with a visual breakdown.

Sony HX30V ranks higher overall for image quality, versatility, and video, supported by better sensor size, zoom range, and burst rates.

Nikon S30's niche is its simplicity, robustness, and quick snapshot ease, aimed at kids or casual family use.

Value Assessment: What Do You Get for Your Money?

Even after a decade, pricing remains a solid lens to gauge value. The Nikon S30 launched at approximately $119, making it an affordable entry point for novice shooters or families seeking a rugged point and shoot.

Sony’s HX30V was priced around $419 - not cheap but competitive for a bridge camera with superzoom and 1080p video.

In today’s terms, the outdated Nikon barely competes except as a novelty or basic kids' camera. Sony's HX30V offers better performance but also feels dated compared to modern compacts or mirrorless cameras with larger sensors.

Who Should Choose Which? Clear Recommendations

To wrap it all up, here’s my take on who benefits most from each model.

Choose Nikon Coolpix S30 if:

• You want a simple, durable, waterproof-ish compact for kids or elderly amateur use
• You prioritize ruggedness and ease over image quality or zoom reach
• You want the lowest cost with basic family snapshot capability
• Interface simplicity and environmental sealing matter more than advanced features

Choose Sony Cyber-shot HX30V if:

• You want a versatile superzoom compact to cover landscapes, wildlife, travel, and occasional sports
• Image quality, video specs, manual controls, and GPS tagging are important
• You need better low-light performance and fast autofocus for quick shots
• You value a bigger, sharper screen and longer battery life for extended outings

Closing Thoughts: Reflecting on Legacy Compact Cameras

It’s fascinating to look back at these two cameras, products of an era when compacts were grappling with smartphone encroachment. Nikon’s S30 is a niche kid-friendly camera - a reliable, no-frills shooter with modest results and exceptional durability for its price. Sony’s HX30V offered a serious imaging tool for enthusiasts wanting zoom flexibility and HD video, essentially a bridge camera blueprint.

Both have significant shortcomings when judged by today’s standards - small sensors, no RAW, limited connectivity - but they demonstrate different philosophies in compact design.

If you’re in the market today, I’d encourage considering mirrorless or enthusiast compacts with larger sensors for vastly superior image quality and focusing. However, if your budget or needs are fixed, and your priorities are pure simplicity or zoom versatility in a compact shell, these remain informative reference points.

Thank you for joining me on this detailed exploration. I hope my hands-on insights help you navigate the subtle and not-so-subtle differences between the Nikon Coolpix S30 and Sony Cyber-shot HX30V.

Happy shooting!

Appendix: Summary Comparison Table

Feature	Nikon Coolpix S30	Sony Cyber-shot HX30V
Sensor Size	1/3" CCD (10MP)	1/2.3" BSI-CMOS (18MP)
Lens Zoom	3x (29-87mm eq.)	20x (25-500mm eq.)
Max Aperture	f/3.3-5.9	f/3.2-5.8
Video Resolution	720p30fps MPEG-4	1080p60fps AVCHD/MPEG-4
Burst Rate	1.5 fps	10 fps
AF Modes	Contrast-detect, center-weighted	Contrast-detect 9 points, tracking
Built-in GPS	No	Yes
Image Stabilization	No	Optical
Screen Size & Resolution	2.7" 230k TFT	3.0" 922k XtraFine TFT
Environmental Sealing	Yes (dust resistant)	No
Battery Type	2x AA	Proprietary NP-BG1
Weight	214g	254g
Price (Launch)	~$119	~$420

For more on camera testing techniques or detailed walk-throughs, feel free to check out my video reviews and photo galleries linked above.