Nikon Coolpix W300 Brief Review


REVIEW SUMMARY

Specifications

  • Weight : 8.2 ounces
  • Battery : Li-ion rated at 280 shots
  • Weather Sealing : Waterproof down to 100 feet for up to an hour, shockproof, dust proof, freeze proof
  • Screen : 3 Inch anti-reflective
  • GPS : Yes
  • Wi-Fi : Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
  • Flash : Built-in with TTL auto
  • Video : 4K at 30 fps, 1080p at 60 fps
  • RAW : No
  • Image Stabilization : Hybrid vibration reduction system
  • Autofocus System : Contrast detection
  • Burst Speed : 7 fps (up to five photos)
  • Zoom : 5x
  • Aperture : f/2.8-4.9
  • Shutter Speed : 1 sec. to 1/4000 (down to 25 sec. in Multiple Exposure Lighten Scene Mode)
  • ISO : 125-6400
  • Sensor : 16 megapixel 1/2.3" backlit CMOS
  • Release Date: 2017-05-31
  • Final Grade: 90 4.5 Star Rating: Recommended


The Nikon W300 can dive deep with a 100 foot depth rating
Nikon's waterproof compact is getting a 4K makeover.
By Hillary Grigonis, Last updated on: 7/25/2017

Waterproof compact camera announcements are expected every spring, but the Nikon Coolpix W300 that's more along the likes of the AW130 but named closer to the budget W100 was a bit less expected. The W300 brings 4K video to Nikon's waterproof camera that still boasts one of the deepest waterproof ratings in its class.

Like the Nikon AW130, the W300 uses a 16 megapixel sensor paired with a 5x optical zoom lens with a respectable f/2.8-4.9 maximum aperture. Speed is similar as well with a respectable 7 fps burst but a bit disappointing buffer, since the camera cannot maintain that speed for even a full second, limited to five photos at a time. Those images are stabilized with a Hybrid VR image stabilization system.

The biggest change from the W130 (outside of straying from the name series) is the move to support 4K video. The camera can capture video at 30 fps in a 3840 x 2160 resolution. For faster frame rates, HD is still available to hit the 60 fps that tends to be better for action. While recording, that hybrid stabilization system (which uses both lens shift and electronic methods) works on five different axis.

The camera's design is one of the biggest perks, with the deepest waterproof rating for housing-free compact cameras at 100 feet for up to an hour. The camera is also designed to withstand cold, drops and dust. The camera's controls are designed to use in a variety of conditions from skiing to scuba diving, with a three-inch LCD display. The grip is also improved over the W130 and Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are both included, as well as GPS.
 
The Nikon W300 looks, on paper, to continue much of the perks we enjoyed in the W130, only with a redesigned grip and better video. The W300 is ideal for serious divers since it has the deepest rating compared to other compacts, though users that don't need the full 100 feet depth rating can also look at the slightly pricier Olympus TG-5, which offers a slightly brighter lens and location and temperature sensors with overlays. Users not looking to shoot video or for Bluetooth convenience can also look for a price drop on the W130. Overall, it's a nice addition to Nikon's family of waterproof compacts.

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Nikon Reviews

Nikon has long been one of the top manufacturers in the industry, and their products are still solid options today. The camera giant is continuously releasing new products with enhancements in image quality and performance.

It's hard to go wrong with a Nikon DSLR. With a different model available for every skill level from beginner to professional, Nikon's DSLR's have always been top notch. Their latest DSLRs have seen improved noise reduction, enhanced video quality and upgraded designs over cameras from just a few years ago.

Nikon made an interesting move in the realm of mirrorless cameras—instead of pushing for bigger sensors, Nikon instead has focused on speed. The Nikon 1 line cameras use a 1” sensor, which is larger than your average point-and-shoot but smaller than the Micro Four Thirds options. While the 1 line doesn't have much resolution, their cameras boast speeds upwards of 15 fps—no other mirrorless line currently comes close to that level of speed.

Nikon's compacts aren't as much of a sure thing as their DSLRs—some of their smaller cameras are quite impressive, while others are beaten out by competitors. We liked their higher end consumer point-and-shoots like the COOLPIX S6500, but be careful with their budget compacts. They offer quite a range of compact cameras, just be sure to read the reviews on the individual camera first.

Nikon offers a full range of cameras from tiny budget models to professional DSLRs. More often than not, if you go with a Nikon, you're getting a solid camera.

We here at Digital Camera HQ offer unbiased, informative reviews and recommendations to guide you to the right camera. We're not an actual store; we're just here to help you find the perfect camera at the best price possible by using our camera grades. Let us know if you have any problems or questions, we're happy to help.