Nikon Coolpix S3000 review

This budget snapper looks great, but could be easier to use

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By published
Nikon Coolpix S3000
Can small and light camera produce great photos?

TechRadar Verdict

Pros

  • +

    Nice looks and build

  • +

    Wide angle, 4x zoom lens

  • +

    12-megapixel sensor

Cons

  • -

    Layout could be more obvious

  • -

    Tends to overexpose in sunlight

  • -

    Limited manual control

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It's easy to dismiss the Nikon Coolpix S3000 as just another point and clicker when, in many ways, it's quite a sophisticated little camera.

It's an upgrade of the Nikon Coolpix S220, a deservedly popular compact offering a 10-megapixel sensor and a 3x optical zoom.

Nikon coolpix s3000

Probably the biggest selling point of the Nikon Coolpix S3000, however, is the reasonably wide-angle lens with 4x zoom. With a focal length of 4.9-19.6mm, the Nikon Coolpix S3000 comes in handy when shooting landscapes or other scenes where you want to cram in as much detail as possible.

nikon coolpix s3000

Certainly, the Nikon Coolpix S3000 needs as much help as it can get to stand out in the insanely competitive, sub-£150 compact market.

It's up against some stiff competition, principally the well-regarded Canon PowerShot A490 (now available for a piffling £80). So what new things does the Nikon bring to this very overcrowded party?