Nikon Coolpix S5100 vs. Olympus Stylus SH-1: A Thorough Compact Camera Comparison for Enthusiasts and Pros

When choosing a compact camera for your creative journey, understanding the nuanced differences between models is key. Today, we're diving deep into a head-to-head comparison of two well-known compact cameras: the Nikon Coolpix S5100, launched in 2010, and the Olympus Stylus SH-1, introduced in 2014. Both targeting casual to enthusiast photographers looking for portability and flexibility, these cameras serve different photographic priorities and user needs.

Drawing on extensive hands-on testing and industry expertise with thousands of cameras, we'll explore technical foundations, real-world handling, and photographic performance across genres. Whether you're an avid traveler, a budding vlogger, or a hobbyist who wants dependable image quality without lugging huge gear, this detailed guide will help you pick the right one.

Let's get started with a clear look at their designs and ergonomics before diving deeper into capabilities and image quality.

Compact and Ready: Size, Handling, and Control Layouts

When it comes to pocketable cameras, size and ergonomics are often decisive factors. Both Nikon and Olympus crafted these models to emphasize compactness but with noticeable differences.

• Nikon S5100: Weighing just 132 grams, the S5100 is remarkably lightweight and ultra-compact at 97 x 57 x 22 mm. Its slim profile fosters effortless portability - ideal when you want something to disappear in your pocket or small bag. The body curves favor comfortable one-hand use, though the small fixed lens limits tactile zoom control - typical for entry-level compacts.

• Olympus SH-1: The SH-1 nearly doubles weight at 271 grams and measures 109 x 63 x 42 mm. That extra heft is felt in hand but contributes to a more robust grip and sturdier feel. While less pocket-friendly, it remains easy to carry in a jacket pocket or daypack. The extended zoom lens and larger hand-grip add to the ergonomics for active zooming.

The top controls on the SH-1 provide faster access to key shooting modes and zoom control. Nikon’s approach is minimal, targeting casual shooters, while Olympus adds customizable exposure settings and a touchscreen interface - a big plus for quick adjustments and menu navigation.

Bottom line: If ultra-compact and lightweight are your top priority, the Nikon S5100 excels. For more control, versatility, and grip comfort, especially with telephoto use, the Olympus SH-1 is superior.

Imaging Heart: Sensor Technologies and Resolution

Image quality hinges primarily on sensor size, technology, and pixel count. Despite the four-year gap, both cameras use the common 1/2.3-inch sensor size, but with very different sensor types.

• Nikon S5100's CCD sensor delivers respectable image quality for casual use. CCD sensors are known for their color fidelity but are more prone to noise at higher ISOs, which limits their low-light capabilities.

• Olympus SH-1’s back-illuminated CMOS sensor (BSI-CMOS) brings notable improvements: better light gathering efficiency, higher native ISO range (up to 6400), and greater resolution at 16 megapixels. This translates into clearer, more detailed images with less noise under dim conditions.

In our rigorous side-by-side testing under controlled environments, SH-1 images showed improved sharpness and more vibrant color rendition, especially at ISO 800 and above - a testament to the more modern sensor and processor pairing (TruePic VII).

On the Screen: Display Quality and User Interface

Checking image composition and playback relies heavily on the rear LCD screen, especially since neither features an integrated electronic viewfinder.

• The Olympus SH-1’s larger and sharper touchscreen improves usability notably - pinch-to-zoom on images and tapping for autofocus points provide a modern, streamlined experience.

• The Nikon S5100’s smaller, lower-res display does the job but can feel cramped, limiting the ease of on-the-fly adjustments.

For photographers who rely on quick screen feedback or prefer touch controls, the SH-1 is the clear winner. For simple point-and-shoot purposes, the Nikon’s screen is adequate but less intuitive.

Zoom Power and Lens Characteristics

A hallmark of compact cameras is the zoom lens, and here, the two cameras diverge significantly.

• Nikon S5100’s 5x zoom is excellent for wide-angle to short telephoto shots. The fast f/2.7 aperture at wide end offers interesting low-light and background blur opportunities but quickly narrows at telephoto, limiting its reach outdoors or in wildlife photography.

• Olympus SH-1’s impressive 24x zoom covers an extraordinary range from wide landscapes to distant subjects. This makes it much more versatile for travel, wildlife, and sports scenarios. However, the maximum aperture is generally a stop slower, impacting low-light shots and bokeh.

Both cameras employ optical image stabilization, but Olympus uses sensor-shift stabilization, which tends to be more effective across focal lengths and shooting situations.

Autofocus and Shooting Performance

Autofocus (AF) speed and accuracy are vital for capturing sharp images, especially in action or low light.

• The older Nikon S5100 relies on basic contrast detection AF without tracking or face detection. This means it generally hunts in low light and struggles to lock focus quickly on moving subjects.

• Olympus SH-1’s AF system includes continuous autofocus, face detection, and tracking - making it much better for wildlife, sports, street, or candid portrait shooting.

• A 12 fps burst mode on the SH-1 is impressive for compact cameras, enabling more chances to capture peak action.

In practice, we found the SH-1’s AF faster, more reliable, and more versatile, catering well to dynamic shooting.

Image Quality in Different Photography Types

Let's contextualize these specs with real-world photographic genres. We also included sample images below to illustrate.

Nikon S5100 front Nikon S5100 screen back Olympus SH 1 front Olympus SH 1 screen back

Portrait Photography

• Nikon S5100 captures pleasing skin tones due to the CCD sensor. The wider aperture at 28mm (f/2.7) helps create some background separation, delivering moderate bokeh in close-ups.
• Olympus SH-1 benefits from face detection and steadier focus, making it easier to nail sharp eyes. However, the narrower apertures limit creamy bokeh, especially at longer zooms.

Winner: S5100 for natural skin tones and bokeh; SH-1 for focus reliability.

Landscape Photography

• SH-1’s extended zoom and higher resolution offer more framing options and detail capture.
• Nikon’s sensor struggles with dynamic range, sometimes clipping highlights or crushing shadows.
• Neither model offers weather sealing, so care is needed outdoors.

Wildlife Photography

• Olympus SH-1 with its 600mm equivalent zoom and AF tracking is markedly better suited for wildlife enthusiasts.
• The Nikon S5100’s 140mm reach and slow AF limit wildlife shooting opportunities.

Sports Photography

• Continuous AF and 12fps shooting on the SH-1 provide a clear advantage for sports.
• Nikon is best reserved for static shots and casual use.

Street Photography

• Nikon’s smaller size and lighter weight make it more discreet for candid work.
• SH-1 is bulkier but faster focusing.

Macro Photography

• Both cameras offer close-focusing capabilities (2-3 cm), good for casual macro.
• SH-1’s steadier stabilization helps get sharper close-ups handheld.

Night / Astro Photography

• Olympus SH-1’s higher ISO range and better processing yield usable low-light images.
• Nikon’s ISO 1600 limit and noisier CCD sensor restrict night shooting.

Video Capabilities

Olympus SH-1 produces higher-quality video with smoother motion, stereo audio input, and modern codec support - useful for vloggers and content creators.

Travel Photography

• The compact Nikon excels on hikes and urban exploration with pocket-friendly size and quick access.
• Olympus is slightly heavier but the zoom versatility and battery life (380 shots vs. unspecified) support longer outings without swapping gear.

Professional Work and Workflow

Neither camera targets professional workflows. Lack of RAW support, limited manual controls (Nikon none, Olympus partial), and modest build quality limit their use in demanding environments. Still, the SH-1’s richer features and USB/HDMI connectivity offer more flexible workflow options.

Build Quality and Durability

Both cameras have plastic bodies without environmental sealing or rugged protection.

• The Olympus SH-1’s weight and solid grip produce a perception of higher build quality.
• Nikon S5100’s smaller shell is well put together but feels less substantial.

Neither is ideal for harsh conditions but are fine for casual indoor/outdoor use.

Battery and Connectivity Essentials

The SH-1 provides longer battery life and versatile Wi-Fi connectivity to share images seamlessly - ideal for social media sharing. Nikon’s lack of wireless connectivity limits its convenience in a connected world.

Analysis Summary: Performance Ratings and Value

Specialized Performance Across Photography Genres

Final Verdict: Who Should Buy Which?

Both the Nikon Coolpix S5100 and Olympus Stylus SH-1 carve distinct niches in the compact camera market. Here's how you might decide:

Choose the Nikon Coolpix S5100 if:

• You want a pocket-sized camera that’s ultra-lightweight and blends discreetly into your day.
• Your photography leans toward casual snapshots, travel snapshots, and portraits in good light.
• You’re on a tight budget (usually found under $200 new or used).
• Simplicity and quick startup appeal more than advanced features.
• You’re less concerned about video quality or extreme zoom.

Choose the Olympus Stylus SH-1 if:

• You seek versatility: wide to super-telephoto zoom (24x) for travel, wildlife, and sports.
• You appreciate better autofocus capabilities and continuous shooting speed.
• You want higher resolution and ISO flexibility for low-light and detailed images.
• Video is important; you need Full HD 60fps with microphone input.
• You want Wi-Fi connectivity for easy sharing.
• You're willing to carry a slightly bigger, heavier camera for added features.

Getting Started and Accessories to Consider

Regardless of your choice, both cameras pair well with essential accessories such as:

• Extra SD cards (preferably Class 10 or higher for video recording)
• Dedicated protective cases to prevent bumps
• Mini tripods or monopods to enhance steadiness, especially for super-telephoto shots on the SH-1
• Lens cleaning kits to maintain image clarity

For Olympus SH-1 users exploring video, consider an external microphone compatible with the built-in input to enhance your audio quality.

Wrapping Up: A Compact Camera for Every Journey

Choosing between the Nikon Coolpix S5100 and Olympus Stylus SH-1 boils down to your priorities - ultra-portability versus feature richness and zoom versatility. Both cameras offer accessible, intuitive pathways into digital photography for different user needs.

We encourage you to try these cameras hands-on if possible. Look for local photography shops where you can handle them, or rent before you buy, to get a feel for ergonomics and speed that suit your style.

Continue your exploration, experiment with varying genres, and capture the magic moments that make photography endlessly rewarding.

Happy shooting!

If you'd like to see more sample images or specific test comparisons, just let us know - our detailed testing archives are ready to guide your next creative steps!