The Nikon can but actually better ...

Over the past years I have bought several digital cameras and also tested, there were always brand manufacturers here. Finally, I was pleased with the Coolpix S4300, Nikon, but that's now 3 years ago. Even this was conceived more as an entry camera, comparatively a little more expensive, but also equipped with 16 million MP and had a similar focal length with a 6x optical zoom (here: 5-fold).

16 MP - still pointless in this category - when does this Megapixelwahn to last? Unnecessary noise is often the result because there are too many pixels have to "share" the small square on the sensor, rather then a solid 6-8 MP camera, but is no longer manufactured - a little put things, for example. adjust. 8 MP in the menu, the compression ratio is, however, lt. manual also higher.

In direct comparison with the three years older Coolpix S4300 Coolpix L31 draws the new but repeatedly the short straw. Where should I start? The monitor has only one no longer timely resolution of 230,000 pixels (460,000 instead of the sister model), image previews and controls are not quite possible.

The picture quality is almost out of the question without flash indoors as much noise is quickly recognizable, with flash but ok Higher ISO numbers can not really make good use of. Outside reveal themselves not only in the display detail weaknesses, even the colors are rather pale therefore. In the most important discipline Nikon disappointed me here.

Programs, there is little to choose speed and aperture settings can not be expected in this price range, of course. But I have in testing more frequently moving objects or simply blurred even hand-held photos - very bad, which can spoil the holiday quickly. Even Macro shooting is not the strength of L31.

Films is the way also, but only at 720p / 30f - that's ok

The processing is mainly cheaper plastic, which reduces also the total weight, especially as the batteries also weigh something. Here the Coolpix L31 scored but immensely: by the way "classic" to use normal batteries, no charger is required (Environmental aspects for disposal I let here either). Thus, looking at the camera, if this holds for long, also still use in the distant future. Because unfortunately change the manufacturer regularly the battery types, so you have to buy a new model change batteries.

Battery Limited operates the camera before somewhat bulky, but this drawback I suppose then gladly accept, because then the camera through the arch on the right and keep better.

Equipment: One set of batteries ok, a bag with belt loop and a wrist strap usual - but no card! Unfortunately, the latter is not uncommon to look for when buying but are taken into account. A film for the display is certainly a wise investment.

Note: Nikon has definitely better cameras offer, here I would rather grab a little deeper into their pockets.

Before a purchase you should ask to see this camera to be possibly not (like me) rather disappointed. For casual clippers who only require well ok, hardly suitable for spontaneous snapshots. The best test yourself. Benevolent 3 points, especially as the price is certainly for one or the other an important purchase / gift criterion.

Addendum 21:03:15: a slightly more expensive alternative is the "Nikon Coolpix S33" that I met at a friend yesterday - more attractive design, Full HD video and even water resistant to 10m - why not? Nikon may therefore demonstrably better, but it will cost even more.