Nikon's tidy power shooter and Panasonic's all-weather laptop
The Coolpix L120 from Nikon is a surprisingly small camera that packs a powerful punch at an affordable price. Panasonic Toughbook CF-F9 is a great machine, but too expensive for most.
Packing a punch
The Coolpix L120 from Nikon is a surprisingly small camera that packs a powerful punch at an affordable price. A 21x optical zoom lens is this camera's main weapon. The lens, coupled with its ability to record 720p high-definition video quite easily and a fair set of features, makes this camera a handy vacation companion. The best thing about it is the large battery case which houses four AA batteries and allows a firm grip which is enhanced with non-slip rubber covering. The LCD screen on the L120 is also one of the best on any small camera in the recent past.
In Nikon's bigger digital single-lens reflex cameras, better known as DSLRs, the vibration reduction feature is built into the lens, whereas in compact cameras vibration is tackled with 'sensor shift'. This means that in really shaky conditions the image might still end up blurred. But, the Coolpix's lightweight makes it easier to keep the camera steady. When you swap out the memory card, just make sure the camera is flipped over as the card shares the compartment with the batteries.
If you are looking for a capable and compact camera to pick up before the summer holidays, one that can take pictures of a night out at Salzburg as easily as it can the ruins of Rome, take a good look at the Nikon Coolpix L120.
+ve: 21x optical zoom, excellent LCD screen, easy videorecording
-ve: Vibration reduction could be better
Price: Rs 15,450
Expensively tough
Six years ago we reviewed a Toughbook and managed to dent it. This surprised us, given the toughness of this range of laptops by Panasonic. We did not push its new product to the limit although we did nonchalantly drop it a couple of times from a height of about three feet. No dents, no performance issues, no problems. The integrated carrying handle makes lugging this light laptop easy. But as far as technical specifications are concerned, the CF-F9 is a bogstandard. You pay top dollar just to ensure it will perform even in the worst environments. Great machine no doubt, but too expensive for most.
+ve: Light, integrated carrying handle. No damage if dropped from a table
-ve: Extremely expensive
Price: Rs 1,65,000
