Nikon Coolpix S9500 vs Pentax KP: A Detailed Comparison for Photography Enthusiasts and Professionals

When I first set out to compare the Nikon Coolpix S9500 and the Pentax KP, I anticipated the contrast would be striking - after all, these cameras belong to quite different classes and were announced four years apart. Yet, examining each one with an expert eye reveals unique strengths tailored to distinct user needs. If you’re weighing an upgrade or just choosing your next kit, read on as I unpack everything - from sensor tech to ergonomics, from autofocus prowess to use across photographic genres.

First Impressions: Size, Style, and Handling

Right off the bat, the Nikon S9500 impresses with its ultra-compact, pocketable design. Measuring roughly 110 x 60 x 31 mm and weighing just over 200 grams, this camera screams portability. That makes it a handy everyday travel companion or street shooter’s friend. It slips easily into most bags without weighing you down.

Contrast this with the Pentax KP’s mid-size DSLR body at 132 x 101 x 76 mm, tipping the scales at around 703 grams. It’s a solid, chunky tool designed for more intensive handling and professional use. Pentax packs weather sealing into the KP’s magnesium alloy body, underscoring its rugged reliability outdoors.

Ergonomics-wise, the KP’s well-contoured grip and placement of buttons feel thoughtfully designed for prolonged shooting sessions. The Nikon’s fixed lens and compact frame, while limiting customizable controls, deliver quick one-hand operation and casual ease.

Moving up a level for control and design, the KP’s top view layout gives you direct access to modes, ISO, exposure compensation, and drive settings - a dream for seasoned photographers wanting tactile tweaking on the fly. Compare this with the stripped-down control design on the S9500 that prioritizes simplicity.

Sensor Size and Image Quality: The Core of Photography

Sensor technology is one of the cornerstone differences here. The Nikon S9500 sports a 1/2.3-inch BSI-CMOS sensor sized around 6.16x4.62 mm (28.46 mm² area) with an 18-megapixel count. The Pentax KP, however, features a much larger 23.5x15.6 mm APS-C CMOS sensor (366.60 mm²), boasting 24 megapixels.

What does this mean in practice? The KP’s sensor area is almost 13 times larger than the S9500’s. A larger sensor typically translates to better light gathering, wider dynamic range, improved low light performance, and more detailed images - especially when pixel counts are comparable or better.

While the Nikon’s sensor is standard fare for small superzoom compacts, it naturally struggles with noise at higher ISOs beyond 1600 and exhibits limited dynamic range. The KP shines here, with a native ISO range from 100 to a staggering 819,200 (boosted, though noise becomes a factor at extreme values). Expect rich tonal gradations and cleaner shadows from the KP, making it far more capable in challenging lighting.

This sensor size advantage also supports Pentax’s commitment to shooting in RAW, allowing photographers the latitude to fine-tune files with powerful post-processing - an option the Nikon does not offer.

LCD Screens and Viewfinders: Seeing Your Shot

The Nikon S9500 employs a fixed 3-inch OLED monitor with a modest 614k-dot resolution - bright enough for casual shooting but lacking articulation and touchscreen capabilities. There’s no electronic or optical viewfinder, so composing in bright daylight can sometimes become a challenge.

Compare this with the Pentax KP’s 3-inch tilting LCD at 921k dots - sharper and flexible enough to accommodate awkward angles and low-perspective framing. Though it lacks touch input (a fairly common omission in DSLRs aiming at tactile button control), the KP compensates with a bright pentaprism optical viewfinder delivering 100% coverage and 0.63x magnification, ideal for action or street shooting.

The presence of an optical finder is significant for professionals who rely on precise framing and want to conserve battery life during lengthy shoots.

Autofocus and Focusing Systems: Speed and Accuracy in Real Use

Here, the Pentax KP really distinguishes itself. Equipped with 27 autofocus points, 25 of them cross-type, and supporting face detection and continuous tracking, the KP’s system is versatile and responsive. I’ve found it readily keeps pace with moderate-speed sports and wildlife action when paired with a proper lens.

The Nikon S9500’s autofocus setup is much more basic - fixed lens, no touch AF, no continuous AF, no face or eye detection autofocus; effectively a passive contrast detection system. This means slower, less reliable focus, especially in low light or when trying to lock focus on moving subjects. Its 7.5 fps continuous shooting rate is respectable for a compact, yet autofocus lag and hunting reduce usability for fast action.

For portrait photographers, the KP’s autofocus precision on eyes and face makes it a preferable choice, helping to capture sharp expressions consistently. The Nikon won’t inspire confidence in that department but remains easy for casual snapshots.

Lens Ecosystem and Versatility

The Nikon S9500’s 25-550mm equivalent fixed zoom lens (22× optical zoom) covers a massive focal range but with the inevitable optical compromises typical of superzooms - moderate sharpness variations, zoom-related distortion, and a relatively slow max aperture (unfortunately unspecified).

The fixed lens also limits creative flexibility; no swapping lenses for different genres or focal needs.

In contrast, Pentax KP’s KAF2 lens mount opens the door to an expansive lens ecosystem - over 150 lenses ranging from prime portrait lenses, macro optics, ultra-wide-angle landscapes, to long telephoto lenses ideal for wildlife and sports. You can invest in weather-sealed primes or compact zooms depending on your budget and shooting style.

This modularity gives the KP a huge advantage for photographers who want one camera body adaptable to all genres, from detail-rich macro work to action sports telephoto shooting.

Build Quality and Weather Resistance: Ready for Adventure?

The Nikon S9500 handles day-to-day casual use fine but lacks any weather sealing or ruggedness features. The plastic build is light but vulnerable to moisture and dust, making it less desirable for harsh outdoor conditions.

On the other hand, the Pentax KP is built like a tank. Its weather-sealed magnesium alloy body stands up to dust and light rain – an ideal option for field photographers who need reliability through the elements. I’ve found this durability essential during unpredictable outdoor assignments.

Battery Life and Storage

Pentax KP’s D-LI109 battery punches out about 390 shots per charge under CIPA standards, nearly doubling the Nikon’s EN-EL12 battery rated at 230 shots. For enthusiast shooters on longer trips without spare batteries, the KP’s endurance is reassuring.

Both cameras use a single SD/SDHC/SDXC card slot, but the KP supports UHS-I cards - meaning faster write speeds and better performance with burst shooting and video capture.

Video Capabilities

If video is on your radar, neither excels in modern 4K recording, but here’s the breakdown:

• Nikon S9500 records full HD 1080p video with basic capabilities. No external microphone or headphone input limits sound control. No 4K or high frame rate modes mean it’s good for casual video but not professional filmmaking.

• Pentax KP also maxes out at Full HD 1080p (30p/60i), yet provides external microphone input for superior audio capture - a bonus for videographers valuing sound quality. It supports timelapse recording but lacks 4K.

Neither is the best choice for video-first creators, but the KP’s audio features and timelapse edge it ahead for hybrid stills/video shooters.

Genre-Specific Performance: Where Each Excels

Let’s break down practical usage across various photography genres, highlighting how each camera fits these needs. Embedded below is a comparative graph rating their respective strengths.

Portrait Photography

Pentax KP shines here with better color rendition, eye detection AF, and interchangeable fast lenses allowing creamy bokeh. Nikon S9500’s limited zoom lens and absence of sophisticated AF functions limit portrait impact, though the 22× zoom allows some framing flexibility.

Landscape Photography

The KP’s larger sensor, higher resolution, and weather sealing make it preferable for landscape shooters seeking files to print or crop heavily. Dynamic range and detail captures benefit greatly. Nikon’s small sensor yields decent snapshots but will disappoint in challenging light or large prints.

Wildlife Photography

With fast AFC and the ability to mount long telephotos, the KP is more suited for wildlife. The Nikon S9500 has an impressive equivalent reach but slower AF and lesser image quality reduce its field usability.

Sports Photography

Again, KP takes the lead: 7 fps, continuous AF, exposure modes, and rugged handling allow better performance. Nikon’s superzoom offers burst speed but AF limits action capture.

Street Photography

Nikon’s small size and light weight shine here for discreet shooting. The KP is bulkier, but the optical viewfinder allows quick, silent framing when shooting in busy environments.

Macro Photography

Pentax KP wins with manual focus aids, selectable focus points, and macro lenses. Nikon can only approximate close-ups with its zoom.

Night and Astro Photography

The KP’s high-ISO capabilities, sensor stabilization, and RAW format support make it the logical choice for astro and low-light photographers.

Video Recording

Neither offers 4K; KP’s microphone input is a bonus; Nikon is a casual shooter’s tool.

Travel Photography

Here the size and weight of the Nikon are very attractive - easy daily carry without extra lenses. KP is more work to pack but offers much more creative potential.

Professional Work

Pentax KP offers the file quality, durability, and manual controls professionals demand. Nikon S9500 is an entry-level superzoom compact for casual or beginner use.

Performance Ratings Summarized

Here is the overall comparative rating based on balanced metrics including image quality, autofocus, ergonomics, and value.

My Testing Methodology and Hands-On Experience

To evaluate these cameras, I employed industry-standard test protocols augmented by field trials. Sensor evaluations included lab measurements of dynamic range and ISO noise, verified with practical low-light portraits and landscapes.

Autofocus was tested on moving subjects and delicate focus tasks (portrait eyes, macro). Ergonomics and UI flow were assessed over multiple sessions simulating varied use - from quick street snaps to prolonged hikes.

Lens sharpness and zoom range were measured alongside distortion, vignetting, and bokeh quality. Battery life tests matched CIPA methods under mixed use.

By blending data and real-world impressions, I aimed to give you a comprehensive, trustworthy analysis.

Nikon S9500 front Nikon S9500 screen back Pentax KP front Pentax KP screen back

Price and Value Assessment

At current street prices, the Nikon Coolpix S9500 sits below $230 - an accessible entry point for casual users who prioritize size and zoom range over raw image fidelity or advanced features.

The Pentax KP, priced near $745, targets enthusiasts and pros seeking a versatile, high-quality APS-C DSLR. Though more expensive, its flexibility, build quality, and image excellence justify the cost for serious photographers who will maximize its features.

Summing It Up: Who Should Buy Which?

Choose the Nikon Coolpix S9500 if you:

• Want a compact, lightweight camera that fits in your pocket
• Prefer point-and-shoot simplicity without fussing over manual controls
• Need a superzoom lens for travel or casual wildlife snapshots
• Are just stepping up from smartphone cameras on a budget
• Don’t require RAW shooting or advanced autofocus features
• Shoot mostly in good light and prioritize convenience

Choose the Pentax KP if you:

• Demand superior image quality and large sensor performance
• Shoot portraits, landscapes, wildlife, or sports frequently and want full manual control
• Need rugged weather-sealed construction for outdoor adventures
• Want access to a broad ecosystem of lenses and accessories
• Value RAW format and customizable autofocus
• Plan to shoot hybrid photo/video with better audio control
• Are willing to invest in a quality DSLR system for long-term use

Final Thoughts

While direct camera-to-camera comparisons can sometimes pit similar products head-to-head, this Nikon vs Pentax review represents an apples-to-oranges match - yet both cameras shine clearly in their camps. The S9500 is a capable compact superzoom, perfect for casual users embracing travel and convenience. The Pentax KP is a serious photographer’s tool, pairing robust hardware with outstanding image quality and versatility.

Understanding your own shooting style is key. Do you prioritize portability and ease? Or does your artistic vision demand professional-grade controls and files? Hopefully, this detailed guide, blending technical insights with hands-on experience, helps you zero in on the right choice for your photography journey.

Happy shooting!

If you want to see these cameras in action, check out my full hands-on video reviews, where I dive deeper into ergonomics and image samples under varied lighting conditions. And don’t hesitate to ask if you have specific questions about either model or shooting scenarios.

Nikon S9500 front Nikon S9500 screen back Pentax KP front Pentax KP screen back