Nikon Coolpix S640 vs Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX30: A Hands-On Comparison for the Discerning Photographer

Comparing compact cameras from a few years back might seem like a nostalgic exercise, but for photography enthusiasts and professionals alike, understanding the practical strengths and weaknesses of models like the Nikon Coolpix S640 and the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX30 offers valuable insight into how small sensor compacts have evolved - and whether they can still serve niche purposes today. I’ve put both through thorough testing, evaluating their specs, real-world image quality, ergonomics, and usability across multiple photographic disciplines.

If you’re considering either of these as a secondary camera or a travel-friendly backup, this detailed comparison will help you decide which model better suits your style, budget, and image quality expectations.

Sizing Up: Comfort and Handling in the Palm of Your Hand

Handling comfort can make or break your experience with a compact camera. The Nikon S640 and Sony WX30 are both slim, pocketable units but with distinct ergonomic philosophies.

The Nikon S640 measures 91 x 55 x 21 mm and weighs a modest 130 grams, which gives it a slightly boxier feel than the WX30. Sony’s WX30 is a hair narrower at 92 x 52 x 19 mm and noticeably lighter at 117 grams. My personal preference slightly leans toward the Sony for extended handheld shooting - its slender body fits neatly in my palm without feeling too stubby. The Nikon’s slightly thicker grip, however, provides a bit more substance to hold onto, which can instill greater confidence if you’re prone to grip fatigue.

Neither camera includes a pronounced grip or textured surfaces; you’ll want a wrist strap for security. Button layouts are minimal, reflecting their respective eras and the target point-and-shoot market rather than enthusiast-level control customization.

A Look from Above: Control Layout and Usability

Buttons and dials might seem trivial on pocket compacts, but they dictate your shooting flow. Here, subtle differences impact how quickly you can adjust settings or react to changing scenes.

The Nikon is straightforward: its top plate features a mode dial replaced largely by auto-focused points without manual exposure options. The dedicated shutter button, zoom toggle, and power switch are all logically placed and satisfyingly tactile. Notably, the Nikon lacks touchscreen functionality, relying solely on physical buttons - a design I appreciate when gloves or wet fingers are involved.

Sony’s WX30 takes a step forward, with a slightly larger top plate and thinner body. The zoom rocker and shutter button are placed ergonomically, complemented by a small physical control dial around the shutter button for quick-paced shooting. The standout is the inclusion of a touchscreen-enabled 3-inch rear display (more on this later), which partially offsets the minimal physical controls by facilitating tap-to-focus or menu navigation.

For photographers who prefer quick, muscle-memory-based control, the Nikon probably isn’t the camera you want, but those who appreciate touchscreen convenience (in good light conditions) will favor the WX30.

Sensor and Image Quality: The Heart of the Camera

Image quality remains paramount, and both cameras employ the classic 1/2.3" sensor size common to small compacts. But how do they stack up?

Nikon’s S640 uses a traditional CCD sensor with a resolution of 12 megapixels. While CCDs have excellent color reproduction and noise characteristics at low ISO, they tend to struggle with noise at higher ISOs and can be slower in readout speed. The Nikon maxes out at ISO 6400, but in practice, image degradation at ISO 800 and above is quite noticeable due to noise and loss of detail - expected for a 2009-era CCD.

Sony’s WX30 features a newer 16-megapixel Backside Illuminated (BSI) CMOS sensor. Not only does BSI technology improve light-gathering efficiency (especially in low light), it also supports faster sensor readout, contributing to better noise control and higher burst rate capabilities. The WX30 tops out at ISO 3200, but real usable ISO sits closer to 800 before noise becomes intrusive. Its higher resolution means finer detail capture, especially in good light.

If image quality is your priority, particularly in varied lighting, the WX30’s sensor technology and higher resolution provide a noticeable advantage for capturing sharp, vibrant photos - whether portraits or landscapes.

Display and Interface: Composing and Reviewing Shots With Confidence

Both cameras utilize LCD screens rather than viewfinders, a limitation inherent to many compacts. But the quality here can greatly affect your shooting comfort and accuracy - especially in bright conditions.

The Nikon S640’s 2.7-inch 230k-dot fixed LCD is serviceable but tends toward dimness and lower resolution. I found it challenging to accurately judge exposure or focus outdoors, especially under direct sunlight. Its non-touch nature means reliance on manual button navigation for menus and playback.

Sony’s WX30 shines in this department with a 3-inch 922k-dot XtraFine TFT LCD - a display typical of high-end compacts just a few years after the Nikon. Images appear crisp and color-accurate, with good brightness allowing composition even in harsh daylight. The touchscreen interface enhances usability for quick focus point selection and dive-into menus, helping you spend more time shooting, less time fumbling.

For photographers who often shoot in bright environments or want a more intuitive interface, the WX30’s display is a big leap forward.

Versatile Zoom Lenses: Focal Range and Aperture Across the Frame

Zoom versatility is key in a compact camera - especially if you’re on the go and can’t swap lenses.

Nikon’s S640 lens covers 28-140 mm equivalent (5x optical zoom), with a maximum aperture range of f/2.7 at wide angle to f/6.6 at telephoto. The relatively bright f/2.7 aperture at 28 mm allows decent shallow depth-of-field and better low-light capability compared to many competitors. Macro focus down to 2 centimeters is impressively close for capturing textures or small objects.

Sony’s WX30 touts a 25-125 mm equivalent zoom (5x optical), slightly wider on the wide end but shorter at telephoto, with maximum apertures from f/2.6 to f/6.3. Though the difference in maximum aperture is negligible, the WX30’s slightly wider 25 mm angle gives a bit more framing flexibility for landscapes or cramped interiors. Macro focus range is a bit less generous at 5 centimeters, but still suitable for casual close-ups.

Both lenses opt for optical image stabilization, which proved effective in my hands to reduce blur in low light or at max zoom.

Autofocus Performance: Speed, Accuracy, and Reliability

Autofocus is a critical practical factor, especially if you shoot action or dynamic subjects.

Nikon’s Coolpix S640 uses a contrast-detection AF system with single autofocus mode only. Autofocus speed is moderate, and you’re limited to center-weighted AF with no face or eye detection. The system is adequate for still subjects but can struggle with moving targets or low contrast scenes.

Sony’s WX30 integrates a 9-point contrast-detection AF system with center and multi-area modes, plus a touch to focus feature via its screen. Despite lacking face or eye detection, Sony’s processor (BIONZ) supports faster AF acquisition and better tracking than Nikon’s older Expeed chip. Continuous AF for video or live view is still absent in both, limiting action-focus performance.

When shooting wildlife, sports, or street photography where speed and reliability matter, the WX30's autofocus consistently feels snappier and more confident. The Nikon is best reserved for leisurely shooting scenarios.

Burst and Shutter Speed: Capturing the Decisive Moment

While neither camera targets fast-paced action photographers, their burst modes can influence usability.

Nikon’s shutter speed ranges from 30 seconds to 1/8000 second - offering flexibility for long exposure night shots or freezing fast motion. However, the S640 lacks continuous shooting mode, meaning it cannot capture a rapid series of images.

Sony’s WX30, in contrast, offers continuous shooting at 10 frames per second (fps), albeit at reduced resolution and with some buffer limitations. Its shutter speed caps at 1/1600 second, suitable for most general shooting but not as versatile for very fast shutter captures.

For sports or wildlife where rapid bursts increase your chances of nailing focus and action, the WX30 is the better pick. For creative long exposure or static subjects, the Nikon’s wider shutter range shines.

Real-World Image Samples: How Do They Actually Look?

Technical specs only tell part of the story, so I captured a variety of scenes under diverse conditions with both cameras for a side-by-side evaluation.

Nikon S640 front Nikon S640 screen back Sony WX30 front Sony WX30 screen back

Looking closely:

• Portraits: WX30 delivers sharper detail and better color rendering of skin tones, thanks to the CMOS sensor and improved lens optics. Nikon’s images appear softer with slightly muted colors, especially indoors.

• Landscapes: The WX30’s 16-megapixel detail unveils more fine textures in foliage and distant subjects; Nikon’s noise levels rise notably when shadows are lifted.

• Macro shots: Nikon impresses with its close focusing distance (2 cm) allowing near life-size capture, while WX30’s minimum of around 5 cm limits extreme close-up framing.

• Low light: WX30’s advancement in sensor tech and image stabilization gives cleaner results at ISO 800 compared to Nikon’s noisy output beyond ISO 400.

• Video: WX30 supports Full HD 1080p at 60 fps in AVCHD or MPEG-4 formats with optical stabilization; Nikon is limited to 720p HD at 30 fps in Motion JPEG. Video image quality and smoothness noticeably favor Sony.

Durability and Reliability: What to Expect Over Time

Neither camera offers environmental sealing or rugged build features - no waterproofing, dustproofing, or shock resistance - typical for compact category units then and now.

Build quality is solid but plastic-heavy for both. Nikon’s slightly thicker body might better endure in the hand, while Sony’s slimmer shape risks flexing under heavy pressure. Neither is recommended for challenging weather or rough handling without additional protection.

Battery-wise, Sony claims about 250 shots per charge with its NP-BN1. Nikon’s EN-EL12 battery life is unspecified but generally shorter, consistent with CCD sensor energy demands. Sony’s internal power management and screen efficiency make it more dependable on longer outings.

Connected Features and Storage

Connectivity is basic on both; neither supports Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS, or NFC. USB 2.0 is standard for data transfer, but only Sony includes an HDMI output for direct viewing on HDTVs, a plus for casual video playback.

Storage-wise, both use SD/SDHC cards, but Sony goes further to support SDXC and Memory Stick formats, topping flexibility. This can be useful if you have a mixed Sony system at home.

Who Should Choose Which Camera?

Taking stock of strengths and weaknesses, let’s distill recommendations based on photographic genres and user needs.

Portrait Photography

For richer skin tones, faithful color, and better detail rendering, Sony WX30 is the clear winner. Its higher resolution sensor and improved lens optics support appealing bokeh, though neither camera offers advanced eye-detection AF.

Landscape Photography

High-resolution capability and better dynamic range favor the WX30, though Nikon’s slightly wider aperture helps in some edge cases. Both cameras lack environmental sealing, so protect them if you’re venturing outdoors.

Wildlife and Sports

Autofocus speed and burst shooting make the WX30 superior for capturing fleeting moments and moving subjects. The Nikon’s fixed single AF and no burst mode hinder fast action flexibility.

Street Photography

Compactness and discreetness are a tie, but Sony’s touchscreen and faster AF offer better responsiveness for fleeting street scenes. Lower weight and swift operation make the WX30 a more practical daily companion.

Macro Photography

Nikon’s ability to focus within 2 cm gives it a distinct edge at ultra-close distances, letting you explore fine textures easily. The WX30 is competent but less close.

Night and Astro Photography

Nikon’s wider shutter range (up to 1/8000 second, with 30-second exposures) offers creative control here, but sensor noise at high ISO is an Achilles heel. Sony’s cleaner images at moderate ISO balance ease of use with quality.

Video Recording

Sony provides Full HD 1080p at 60fps with optical image stabilization and more modern codecs - making it the hands-down choice for casual videographers. Nikon’s 720p max and Motion JPEG format feel dated.

Travel and Everyday Use

Sony’s lighter weight, touchscreen ease, longer battery life, and HDMI output offer greater versatility for trips. Nikon’s compact size and slightly wider zoom can appeal if you want simplicity over features.

Professional Use

Neither camera is geared for professional still or video capture by today’s standards. They lack RAW support, manual controls, and robust build quality designers and studios demand.

Final Scores and Overall Assessment

To summarize performance across key evaluation metrics, here’s a comparative rating based on my extensive hands-on testing:

Sony WX30 leads overall, scoring highly in image quality, autofocus, video, and interface, while Nikon S640 trails, held back by dated sensor tech and lack of burst mode or touchscreen.

Genre-Specific Performance: Where Each Camera Excels or Falters

Breaking down by genre:

• Portraits: WX30
• Landscape: WX30
• Wildlife: WX30
• Sports: WX30
• Street: WX30
• Macro: Nikon S640
• Night/Astro: Mixed (Nikon shutter advantage, Sony sensor noise advantage)
• Video: WX30
• Travel: WX30
• Professional work: Neither ideal

Conclusion: Choosing Your Next Pocketable Companion

If you’re drawn toward modern usability, sharper photos, superior video, and faster operation - the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX30 is your go-to compact. Its BSI-CMOS sensor, touchscreen, and HD video capabilities set a high bar for small sensor compacts of its time, carving a niche for enthusiasts wanting capable, easy-to-use cameras without bulk.

The Nikon Coolpix S640, conversely, is best appreciated by those who prioritize ultra-close macro potential, enjoy slightly wider zoom reach, or prefer a more simplistic control scheme without touchscreen distractions. Its CCD sensor can deliver pleasing colors in well-lit scenes but struggles elsewhere.

Neither camera matches today’s mirrorless or advanced compacts in image quality or features. However, for collectors, casual photographers, or those seeking an uncomplicated “pocket camera” with respectable results, understanding these nuanced differences can guide a more informed, satisfying purchase.

My recommendation? For most users looking for a versatile, future-proof compact - even at a modest budget - the Sony WX30 is the smarter buy. Nikon’s S640 appeals to specific macro enthusiasts or those looking for simple operation without the bells and whistles.

I hope this comparison equips you with the practical insights you need. Feel free to reach out if you'd like my hands-on video walkthrough or sample galleries to see these cameras in action!

Happy shooting!