Nikon Coolpix S6200 vs. S9300: A Hands-On Deep Dive Into Two Compact Zoomers

When it comes to compact superzoom cameras aimed at casual shooters and enthusiasts on a budget, Nikon’s Coolpix lineup has long been a tempting proposition. Today, we’re putting two popular models head-to-head: the Nikon Coolpix S6200 and its slightly more advanced sibling, the Coolpix S9300.

Both cameras sit just above the point-and-shoot entry-level tier and promise impressive zoom ranges and user-friendly features, but how do they really compare when you press the shutter button? Having extensively tested thousands of cameras over my 15+ years reviewing gear, I’ll share the nitty-gritty of their real-world performance, usability, and value - helping you figure out which might be the better fit for your photographic pursuits.

Getting Acquainted: Design, Size, and Build

Although both Nikon S6200 and S9300 are classified as compact cameras with built-in lenses, their physical characteristics hint at distinct user experiences.

The S6200 is featherweight at just 160 grams and measures a slim 93x58x26 mm, fitting comfortably into a jacket pocket or small purse without adding much bulk. The S9300 is bulkier and heavier at 215 grams and 109x62x31 mm, which is noticeable during longer handheld shoots but still pocketable for most.

This size difference primarily stems from the S9300’s extended zoom (more on that later) and a slightly larger LCD screen.

Ergonomically, Nikon kept controls fairly basic on both models - no clubs for your thumbs here, just simple, easily reachable buttons and modes aimed at casual shooters. Neither has a dedicated grip, so those with larger hands might find the S9300’s extra girth a little easier to hold steady.

Neither camera offers extensive manual controls: no shutter or aperture priority, no manual exposure, and minimal autofocus customization. This limits their appeal for advanced landscape or portrait shooters who crave creative control - but it simplifies operation if you just want to point and shoot, or learn the ropes without complexity.

Sensor and Image Quality: The Heart of the Matter

For me, sensor performance often dictates how much you’ll enjoy a camera - every photo depends on it. Both cameras sport identical 1/2.3-inch sensors with 16-megapixel resolution (4608x3456 pixels), but the S6200 uses a CCD sensor while the S9300 features a newer BSI-CMOS sensor.

This sensor size - about 28 mm² - is standard for superzoom compacts but tiny when compared to DSLRs or mirrorless cameras, so expect limited dynamic range and noise performance.

CCD versus BSI-CMOS: CCD sensors, like the S6200’s, traditionally capture pleasing colors and decent detail, especially in good light. However, they’re generally more power-hungry and struggle in low light beyond ISO 400.

The S9300’s BSI-CMOS sensor flips this typical narrative - the backside illumination improves low-light sensitivity and noise handling somewhat. In practice, the S9300 handles dim environments and higher ISOs (up to 3200 native) more gracefully, producing less grain and smoother images. Still, the small sensor limits how “clean” images remain as ISO climbs.

I methodically shot identical scenes indoors, outdoors, and under challenging lighting to verify these differences. At ISO 100-200, both cameras deliver acceptable sharpness and color. Above ISO 400, the S9300 holds its own better, showing less noise and retaining more detail.

Color depth and dynamic range are limited on both but slightly improved on the S9300 thanks to the sensor and image processing tweaks within its unnamed processor.

Neither offers RAW capture, which will disappoint those wanting maximum post-processing latitude - you’re firmly in JPEG land here.

Zoom Range and Optics: Your Reach Matters

While sensor specs are similar, the lenses tell a different tale:

• Nikon S6200’s lens: 25-250mm equivalent (10x zoom), aperture f/3.2–5.6
• Nikon S9300’s lens: 25-450mm equivalent (18x zoom), aperture f/3.5–5.9

The S9300 can almost double the telephoto reach of the S6200. That’s a meaningful difference if you’re into shooting distant subjects like wildlife, sports, or street scenes from afar.

Optical image stabilization (OIS) is built into both, critical for reducing blur at telephoto lengths. Nikon’s claims of effective stabilization hold up reasonably well on both models, though the S9300’s longer zoom demands even steadier hands (or digital tripod help).

The tradeoff with longer zooms is typically in image quality at the far end - expect lens softness and chromatic aberration creeping in at 450mm on the S9300. The S6200’s more modest zoom keeps images a touch crisper through its range, but you’ll miss those reach-hungry shots.

Macro capabilities also differ: the S9300 focuses as close as 4cm versus 10cm on the S6200 - making it better suited for close-up detail shots of flowers or tiny objects.

Focusing and Burst Shooting: Snapping the Moment

Autofocus (AF) systems on these compacts use contrast detection without phase detection, which is common for cameras in this category, but it has its caveats.

• S6200 supports autofocus touch operation and face detection; autofocus tracking is available, but continuous AF is lacking.
• S9300 offers similar face and center AF options; unfortunately, it doesn’t support AF touch.

In practice, the S9300’s AF felt deliberately tuned for speed - likely a subtle software improvement aimed at minimizing hunting, especially at full zoom. Still, neither is blazing fast enough to nail fast-moving wildlife or sports action consistently.

Burst rates reinforce this difference:

• S6200 maxes out at a languid 1 FPS (frames per second),
• S9300 cranks to nearly 7 FPS in continuous shooting.

If fast series shots of a kid’s soccer game or birds in flight are your priorities, the S9300 is the clear winner here.

Screen and Viewfinder: Previewing Your Shots

Neither model provides an electronic viewfinder (EVF), relying entirely on rear LCDs for composition and review.

The S6200 has a 2.7-inch TFT LCD with 230k dots resolution; the S9300 upgrades to a larger 3-inch screen at 921k dots.

That difference is meaningful - the high-res screen on the S9300 is easier to see outdoors in bright sunlight, offers sharper image playback, and provides a nicer interface to browse shots.

On the menu side, both cameras are straightforward and aimed at point-and-shoot ease, but menu responsiveness felt marginally smoother on the S9300 in my testing.

Video: Basic but Serviceable

Video specs reflect their era and target market - no 4K craziness here.

• S6200 shoots HD 720p video at 30 FPS.
• S9300 offers full HD 1080p at 30 FPS, plus 720p and VGA modes.

The S9300’s higher-resolution video is a solid upgrade, and it records H.264 MPEG-4 format - more efficient and higher quality than the MPEG-4 and Motion JPEG compression of the S6200.

Neither camera offers external mic jacks or headphone outputs, so audio quality is strictly whatever the built-in mic captures.

For casual home videos or travel clips, S9300’s video edge is notable.

Battery Life and Storage: Staying Powered Up

Both cameras use the same Nikon EN-EL12 battery pack:

• The S6200 can capture about 250 shots per charge,
• The S9300 manages only about 200 shots.

Lesser endurance on the S9300 is offset somewhat by its larger display and more capable processor, but frequent recharging or spares are advisable for longer shoots.

Storage wise, both accept SD/SDHC/SDXC cards via a single slot with no proprietary traps.

Connectivity and Extras

Connectivity is minimal - no Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or NFC on either unit, quite typical for their release period.

Notably, the S9300 includes built-in GPS, which geotags images automatically - a neat feature for travel bloggers or landscape photographers who want exact location info without fuss.

Neither provides rugged weather sealing or toughened shells, so be mindful when shooting outdoors in rough conditions.

Image Samples and Performance Ratings: How Do They Stack Up?

Let’s cut through the specs and get to the heart of daily shooting performance using side-by-side sample comparisons and performance scoring to validate impressions.

Nikon S6200 front Nikon S6200 screen back Nikon S9300 front Nikon S9300 screen back

In well-lit outdoor scenarios, both cameras churn out pleasant snapshots with good detail. The S9300’s edge in dynamic range and low-light noise is tangible in dim indoor shots.

When examining telephoto shots at max zoom, the S9300 lets you get closer, although some softness and noticeable noise creep in near 450mm. The S6200’s more modest zoom appears sharper by comparison but can’t reach those distant subjects.

In videos, S9300’s full HD output is significantly more detailed.

General ratings place the S9300 ahead on autofocus, zoom, video resolution, screen quality, and GPS availability. The S6200 gets points for lighter weight and longer battery life.

Breaking it down by photography type:

• Portraits: Both do OK with face detection; neither create creamy bokeh due to small sensor and narrow aperture.
• Landscapes: S9300’s better dynamic range and higher-res video edge it out.
• Wildlife & Sports: S9300’s faster burst and longer zoom make it better for casual action capture.
• Street: S6200’s smaller size and weight are pluses; both falter in low light.
• Macro: S9300’s closer minimum focus distance wins.
• Night/Astro: Neither excels; sensor size limits noise control.
• Video: Clear win for S9300.
• Travel: S9300’s GPS and zoom make it more versatile, but S6200’s lighter size and longer battery help.
• Professional use: Both fall short (no RAW, limited manual control).

Practical Recommendations: Which Fits Your Needs?

If You’re a Cheapskate Casual Shooter or Beginner

The Nikon Coolpix S6200 is a solid choice if:

• You want a lightweight, pocket-friendly camera for everyday snapshots.
• You prioritize longer battery life and ease of use over zoom range.
• Video isn’t a big priority.
• Your budget is around $200 and you find a good deal on this slightly older model.
• You’ll be shooting mostly in daylight or well-lit conditions.

It’s straightforward, affordable, and a reliable little companion for travel or family photos.

If You Want More Reach, Better Video, and Speed

Go for the Nikon Coolpix S9300 if:

• You want longer zoom range for wildlife, sports, or street scenes without stepping up to bulkier gear.
• Video quality matters - you want crisp full HD.
• You appreciate a sharper, larger rear LCD and built-in GPS for geotagging.
• You don’t mind sacrificing some battery life and carrying a slightly heavier camera.
• Burst shooting capability is important for your style.

While it carries a modest price premium (around $249), the gains in flexibility and usability justify it for many shooters wanting a compact zoom with more punch.

What Neither Camera Does Well (And What To Consider Instead)

Both S6200 and S9300 have inherent limitations related to their segment:

• No RAW capture - limits post-production control.
• Limited manual controls - not ideal if you want creative exposure experiments.
• Small sensor means noisy images at higher ISO and limited dynamic range.
• Slow autofocus compared to modern mirrorless or DSLR cameras.
• No touchscreen or advanced connectivity features.

For enthusiasts with higher expectations or professional requirements, stepping up to mirrorless cameras like Nikon’s Z50 or entry-level DSLRs may be warranted. These offer larger sensors, better lenses, and full manual control, although with added size, weight, and cost.

Final Verdict: Two Compact Zoomers, Different Priorities

Both Nikon Coolpix S6200 and S9300 deliver where expected - quality compact zooms ideal for those who want one camera that can do a bit of everything without fuss or fussy settings.

If you prize portability, longer battery life, and straightforward shooting at a bargain price, the S6200 hits the mark. But if you want a step up in zoom reach, video capabilities, autofocus responsiveness, screen quality, and GPS tagging - the S9300 deserves your consideration.

For quick reference, here’s the rundown:

Nikon Coolpix S6200 - Pros:

• Lightweight and pocketable
• Longer battery life
• Simple, beginner-friendly interface
• Sharp images at modest zooms

Cons:

• Lower-res, smaller screen
• Limited zoom reach (10x)
• Older CCD sensor with noisier low-light performance
• Slow burst and AF speed
• No GPS

Nikon Coolpix S9300 - Pros:

• Impressive 18x zoom range
• Better low-light sensor (BSI-CMOS)
• Higher resolution screen (3 inches, 921k dots)
• Faster autofocus and almost 7 FPS burst
• Full HD (1080p) video recording
• Built-in GPS for geotagging
• Closer macro focusing

Cons:

• Heavier and larger
• Shorter battery life
• No touchscreen
• Slightly softer image quality at max zoom due to longer focal length
• Still no RAW or manual exposure controls

Choosing between these two Nikon compacts comes down clearly to what you value most: portability and simplicity, or greater zoom, video ability, and a sharper interface.

I hope this deep dive gives you a better sense of how these cameras perform beyond the spec sheets, so you can pick the right sidekick for your photo adventures.

Happy shooting!