Nikon Coolpix S6500 vs Samsung WB210: A Detailed Compact Superzoom Showdown

When delving into the realm of small sensor superzoom cameras, two contenders from the early 2010s often emerge in conversations: Nikon’s Coolpix S6500 and Samsung’s WB210. Despite their shared category, these compact cameras bring distinct features and compromises to the table, each appealing to different shooting styles and user priorities. Having spent considerable time testing both, this comprehensive comparison aims to unpack the nuances between them across multiple photographic disciplines and interaction points.

Whether you’re an enthusiast seeking a versatile travel companion, or simply a casual shooter craving accessible zoom power, this side-by-side review - bolstered by technical benchmarks and hands-on insights - will guide you toward the camera best suited to your needs.

First Impressions & Physical Ergonomics: Compactness Meets Usability

Our initial handling of the Nikon S6500 and Samsung WB210 quickly revealed contrasting design philosophies. The Nikon adopts a slightly chunkier build, likely to accommodate its 12x zoom optics and associated stabilization, while Samsung’s WB210 trades some grip for a leaner silhouette.

Dimensions & Weight

• Nikon S6500: 95 x 58 x 26 mm; 250g
• Samsung WB210: 101 x 59 x 22 mm; 174g

The Nikon’s heft is perceptible, lending a reassuring solidity in hand, whereas Samsung’s lighter frame favors pocketability. Photographers prioritizing extended handheld use or travel convenience might lean toward the WB210 simply for comfort and portability.

Control Layout & Build Quality

Tactile feedback and control ergonomics profoundly impact shooting experience. Through side-by-side manipulation, the Nikon’s buttons feel marginally more tactile and spaced, reducing accidental presses - a boon during dynamic shooting. Samsung compensates with a responsive touchscreen, rare for its generation, though its menu system can feel slightly sluggish.

The fixed lens mount architecture on both cameras aligns with expectations for compact superzooms, but the S6500’s shooter-focused button layout edges ahead for quick operation. Both bodies lack weather sealing - a limitation for demanding outdoor or rugged use.

Sensor Technology & Image Quality: Small Sensors, Big Expectations

At the heart of any camera comparison lies image quality, governed heavily by sensor technology and resolution.

Sensor Size & Type

• Both cameras utilize a 1/2.3" sensor measuring approximately 6.17 x 4.55 mm (28.07 mm² sensor area).
• Nikon S6500: BSI-CMOS sensor (16MP)
• Samsung WB210: CCD sensor (14MP)

The S6500’s BSI-CMOS sensor fundamentally offers better light-gathering efficiency and higher ISO performance compared to the older CCD sensor in the WB210. Though both share similar sensor footprints, the more modern Nikon unit delivers cleaner images in low-light scenarios and preserves finer shadow detail.

Resolution & Image Output

The Nikon’s 16-megapixel count offers a moderate resolution edge over Samsung’s 14MP. In practical terms, this translates into marginally larger prints and slightly greater cropping flexibility for post-processing tasks, valuable in wildlife or sports photography where framing can be challenging.

However, neither camera supports RAW image capture, restricting professional workflows and advanced post-production latitude.

Focusing Systems & Speed: Capturing The Moment

Autofocus (AF) quality can make or break photographic results, especially for fast-moving subjects or spontaneous moments.

• Nikon S6500: Contrast-detection AF, face-detection enabled, single and continuous AF with tracking functionality
• Samsung WB210: Contrast-detection AF, basic face-detection, single AF only

The S6500 features more versatile AF modes, including continuous AF tracking - albeit within the limitations of a compact camera’s processing power. In real-world use, Nikon’s system locks onto eyes or faces reliably, making it a better candidate for portrait and wildlife shooters working with unpredictable subjects.

Samsung’s AF, while accurate in well-lit, static scenes, struggles with fast tracking and does not support continuous focusing or subject tracking, undermining its utility in sports or wildlife contexts.

Display & Interface: The Viewer’s Window

The LCD screen is critical for framing and reviewing shots. Both cameras forgo an electronic viewfinder, leaning on their rear screens as sole composition tools.

Screen Size & Resolution

• Nikon S6500: 3", AMOLED display, 460k-dot resolution
• Samsung WB210: 3.5", LCD, ~1 million dots, touchscreen enabled

Samsung’s larger screen and significantly higher resolution provide a notably sharper and brighter viewing experience. The added touchscreen introduces ease in menu navigation and focus point selection, a feature Nikon lacks entirely.

However, the AMOLED panel on the Nikon compensates with better contrast ratios and richer color rendering, enhancing image review under varied lighting conditions.

Zoom & Lens Characteristics: Versatility or Speed?

Both cameras focus heavily on superzoom capabilities, aimed at versatile framing from expansive landscapes to zoomed-in details.

• Nikon S6500: 25-300mm equivalent; aperture f/2.8-5.9
• Samsung WB210: 24-288mm equivalent; aperture f/2.9-5.9

The nearly identical zoom ranges reflect similar telephoto reach, but the Nikon offers a marginally wider angle start at 25mm versus 24mm for the Samsung–negligible in daily shooting.

The slightly faster max aperture at the wide end on Nikon (f/2.8 vs f/2.9) translates to enhanced low-light performance or creamier background blur potential, important for portraits.

Both cameras feature optical image stabilization, helping to tame shake in low light or extended zoom. Our tests confirm steady, effective stabilization on both models, though the Nikon’s system feels more refined, attributable in part to its more advanced image processor.

Photographic Discipline Rundown: How They Fare in the Field

The real test of any camera pair lies in how they perform across popular photographic genres and use cases. Here, we detail our findings backed by shooting experiences.

Nikon S6500 front Nikon S6500 screen back Samsung WB210 front Samsung WB210 screen back

Portrait Photography

Skin tone rendition and bokeh quality hinge on sensor and lens capabilities.

• Nikon S6500: The wider aperture and 16MP sensor produce more pleasing skin tones with natural warmth. Face detection combined with continuous AF tracking reduces missed critical focus, especially on eyes. Background blur, though modest, has smoother gradients due to optical design.

• Samsung WB210: Skin tones are slightly flatter and cooler in comparison. Face detection works reasonably but AF does not track moving models, causing occasional misses. Bokeh is more abrupt and less natural owing to sensor and lens constraints.

Verdict: Nikon wins for portrait work, particularly in dynamic or low-light settings where AF and aperture matter.

Landscape Photography

Landscape shooters demand resolution, dynamic range, and weather robustness.

• Both cameras yield sufficient resolution for small to medium prints, but neither matches advanced DSLRs or mirrorless options here.
• Nikon’s BSI-CMOS sensor handles shadow detail and highlights marginally better, lending depth to scenes with high contrast.
• Neither offers weather sealing, a notable drawback for outdoor shooters.

Verdict: Nikon provides better image quality with broader tonal response, though limitations of sensor size are evident. Samsung’s bigger screen aids composition in bright environments.

Wildlife Photography

Rapid autofocus and fast bursts are crucial in this genre.

• Nikon S6500: Offers 10 FPS continuous shooting, continuous AF tracking, and decent telephoto reach. While continuous AF on a compact cannot rival advanced mirrorless systems, the S6500 handles basic wildlife shooting well.

• Samsung WB210: Offers no continuous shooting mode and lacks continuous AF, rendering it unsuitable for fast wildlife action.

Verdict: Nikon is suitable for casual wildlife photography; Samsung falls short here.

Sports Photography

Similar demands apply as in wildlife: fast autofocus, rapid frame rates, and good ISO handling.

• Nikon’s continuous AF and 10 FPS burst rate perform moderately well under good light. Limitations arise as ISO maxes at 3200 with noise creeping in.
• Samsung’s absence of continuous AF and no burst mode makes it frustrating for sports subjects.

Verdict: Nikon is a competent entry-level sports shooter; Samsung is not advised.

Street Photography

Here, discreetness, low-light capability, and speed count.

• Samsung’s lighter weight and touchscreen allow quick adjustments and more covert shooting.
• Nikon, while heavier, offers faster shutter response and better image quality with less noise at night.

Verdict: For portability and quick interface, Samsung may appeal; for image quality and performance, Nikon leads.

Macro Photography

Examining close-up ability, magnification, and focusing accuracy.

• Both cameras focus down to 5cm, standard for compacts.
• Nikon’s manual focus support and sharper lens elements result in marginally better macro results.

Verdict: Slight advantage to Nikon for detail and focusing control.

Night & Astro Photography

Key factors are low light sensitivity, long exposures, and noise control.

• Nikon offers manual exposure modes and ISO up to 3200. The presence of aperture and shutter priority enables some creative control.
• Samsung lacks shutter or aperture priority and tops out at ISO 1600 (3200 boosted), limiting control and image quality.

Verdict: Nikon is far more suitable for night shooting and astrophotography.

Video Capabilities

• Nikon S6500 records 1080p at 30fps in MPEG-4/H.264, offering good quality for casual videography.
• Samsung WB210 maxes out at 720p and uses Motion JPEG, resulting in bulkier files and lower quality.

Neither camera boasts microphone or headphone jacks, limiting audio control.

Verdict: Nikon’s Full HD video support makes it preferable for video-conscious users.

Travel Photography

The camera carrying your memories on a trip is a jack-of-all-trades.

• Nikon offers broader creative controls, better image quality, and GPS tagging - a nice feature for digital travelers who track photo locations.
• Samsung is smaller, lighter, and has a superior screen for quick review but lacks GPS and advanced exposure options.

Verdict: Nikon edges ahead for the serious traveler, Samsung for casual snapshots.

Professional Work & Workflow Integration

Both cameras lack RAW support and advanced tethering or connectivity options, limiting professional use. Nikon’s built-in wireless might ease casual sharing but is not aimed at professional workflows.

Build Quality and Durability: Can They Take a Beating?

Neither camera offers environmental sealing or proofing against dust, water, shock, or freezing temperatures. This is standard fare for compact superzooms of this tier and era but worth noting for serious outdoor enthusiasts.

Battery, Storage & Connectivity: Practical Aspects

• Both models accept SD cards (Samsung adds microSDHC compatibility and internal memory).
• Nikon’s battery model (SLB-10A) is proprietary; Samsung specifics are less clear but average compact endurance expected.
• Nikon offers built-in GPS and wireless connectivity; Samsung has none. Both have HDMI and USB 2.0 ports.
• Wireless features on Nikon may feel limited by modern standards but represent a plus over Samsung.

User Interface & Menu Systems: Ease of Use Matters

Nikon’s non-touch AMOLED screen combined with physical controls includes a more traditional shooting experience. Samsung’s touchscreen LCD is morphing usability towards smartphone-inspired interactions, though not always with the speed or reliability we prefer.

Price and Value Considerations

• Nikon S6500 comes in around $170 at launch, offering contemporary specs for that price - 16MP, 12x zoom, and Full HD video with GPS.
• Samsung WB210, despite an older sensor and fewer features, commands a higher price (~$279) which feels less justified given its limitations.

Summary Scores & Genre Performance

This concise visual puts it all together:

Final Recommendations: Who Should Choose Which?

Choose Nikon Coolpix S6500 if you:

• Want better image quality and low-light versatility
• Need continuous autofocus and fast burst shooting for wildlife or sports
• Desire manual exposure options for creative control, particularly in night or landscape photography
• Value GPS and wireless connectivity for travel and convenience
• Prioritize video quality (Full HD) and stable imaging

Choose Samsung WB210 if you:

• Prefer a lighter, more pocketable camera with a larger, sharper touchscreen for easier framing and menus
• Prioritize casual, opportunistic shooting with minimal manual control
• Have a limited budget but want decent zoom range and straightforward operation
• Want a camera primarily for snapshots and street shooting where quick responsiveness and compactness help

Closing Thoughts: The Compact Superzoom Balancing Act

Neither the Nikon Coolpix S6500 nor Samsung WB210 redefined the compact superzoom category upon release, but both addressed key user needs within constrained budgets. Nikon’s technical advantages - modern sensor, stronger autofocus, richer exposure controls - make it the more capable generalist. Samsung leans into ease of use and portability but sacrifices performance and versatility.

Having tested both under varied lighting, motion, and scenic conditions, my recommendation remains clear: Nikon S6500 offers greater creative potential and better real-world shooting results for enthusiasts who expect decent image quality without stepping up to interchangeable-lens systems.

However, if your priority is a simple, lightweight camera for casual use and ease of operation, Samsung’s WB210 gives a smooth, comfortable experience at the expense of speed and advanced features.

Happy shooting, whichever compact superzoom you put in your bag!