In this day and age, smartphones have overtaken dedicated cameras as the primary imaging device for day-to-day activities. Yet there is still a demand for specialised cameras that cannot be replaced by smartphones. The Nikon COOLPIX W300 is the updated model of Nikon’s tried and tested W series of tough cameras that are waterproof, freezeproof, shockproof and dustproof. Personally, I like to consider this camera also as childproof, where children can enjoy the creative experience of taking photographs without fear of accidental damage and the subsequent punishment that comes with it.
Take It Anywhere
Most smartphones can only achieve up to an IP68 rating. This means they can be submerged up to one metre underwater for half an hour. In contrast, the W300 can be operated up to 30 metres, making it suitable for diving. It can also operate in other harsh conditions, like withstanding accidental drops up to 2.4 metres in height and extreme cold, down to -10 degrees Celsius. No smartphone can handle such abuses.
Fast Action, High Resolution
With a variable aperture of f/2.8 – 4.9, VR (Nikon’s trademark for optical image stabilisation) and 5x optical zoom, the camera is well-equipped to capture decent images, though it lacks the ability to add filters or lens adapters. If it’s fast action that you need, the camera can shoot slow-motion videos up to 120fps. And if it’s resolution that you need, it can also capture videos up to 4K UHD. In addition, the W300 also captures GPS location data and altitude information as well as depth data and compass.
To facilitate the transfer of images, the W300 supports Bluetooth and Wi-Fi modes. The Bluetooth mode maintains connectivity to the smartphone. This way, the photos can be sent to the phone while shooting while the Wi-Fi mode sends selected photos and videos to the phone. Through the Snapbridge app, it is also possible to control the W300 remotely via the phone.
Rating: 3.5
S$689
Strangely, when it comes to tough cameras, it’s either a fully-decked out DSLR with a specialised kit, or something like the Nikon W300. For a camera that can more or less do it all, you can count on the Nikon W300 to shoot anywhere in the world, even in the harshest weather conditions.
Technical Specifications
- Effective Pixels 16 million
- Sensor Size 1/2.3-inch CMOS
- Lens 4.3 to 21.5mm (24-120mm equivalent) 5X optical zoom
- Aperture f/2.8 – 4.9
- Shutter Speed 1/4000 to 25 sec
- Sensitivity ISO 125 – 6400
- LCD Monitor 3-inch 921K TFT LCD
- Battery 280 shots or 60 min FHD video
- Dimensions 111.5 x 66.0 x 29.0 mm
- Weight 231g (including battery)
