Nikon Coolpix AW110
Price: Rs 16,950
Specs: 16MP CMOS, 5.0-25.0mm, f/3.9-4.8, 1/1500, ISO 125-1600, 1080p, SD card, waterproof/shockproof
The Nikon Coolpix AW110 is built like a tank. It better be. For this is among the few waterproof and shockproof cameras available in India. The AW110 is a rugged compact camera with features like GPS, altimeter and compass that make it a great option to carry on treks and camping trips.
The build quality on this camera is amazing. The one we tested had a camouflage finish in front, while the back has a 3-inch OLED screen and the controls. The battery and SD card are behind a water tight slot, which we thought was a very good feature. This is because this camera can stay waterproof in depths of up to 18 metres, good enough for scuba diving and maybe a dip in the pond. The on/off button and trigger have all been made with this feature in mind.
With no good waterbodies around, we tested the underwater skills of this camera in a bucket of water. The results were really good as the camera was always on focus above and below water. But it is better to use the camera in the 1080p video mode was shooting underwater was clicking pictures while swimming might not be so easy for amateurs. Thankfully, this camera also has a movie light mode that will come in handy while shooting in murky waters.
The camera gives good results, even in low light. The 16MP CMOS sensor is good enough for this camera to be used for non-adventurous events too. There is a 5x zoom, but in both video and stills this camera takes some time to lock on the subject in full zoom.
Made for the outdoors, the AW110 shows altitude at all times. You can also switch on the compass and GPS if needed, though the latter works well only when you are in the open. There are no manual modes in this camera and you will have to do with the large number of scene modes. Another good feature is the ability to edit pictures even after you have shot them. The Wi-Fi option lets you view the camera screen on a smartphone using Nikon's Wireless Mobile Utility app. This view can then be used to click picture remotely. But getting the Wi-Fi settings right is far from easy.
Buy the Nikon Coolpix AW110 if you too are made for the outdoors like this camera.
Bag it or junk it: If you need an underwater camera, look no further