Nikon S3100 Camera Review 2023
If you’re in the market for a new point-and-shoot camera, you might have come across the Nikon Coolpix S3100. With its sleek design, affordable price, and impressive specs, this camera is a popular choice among beginners and casual photographers.
In this review, we’ll take a closer look at the Nikon S3100 and evaluate its pros and cons. By the end of this article, you’ll have a better idea of whether this camera is the right fit for you.
Design and Build
The Nikon S3100 is a compact and lightweight camera that weighs only 118 grams and measures 94.5 x 57.5 x 18.4 mm. It’s available in a variety of colors, including black, silver, pink, blue, and purple, so you can choose the one that suits your style.
The camera features a 14-megapixel CCD sensor and a 5x optical zoom lens with a focal length of 26-130mm. It also has a 2.7-inch LCD screen that offers good visibility, even in bright sunlight.
The S3100 has a sleek and modern design that’s easy to hold and use. It’s made of high-quality materials that feel sturdy and durable, so you don’t have to worry about it breaking easily.
Image and Video Quality
One of the most critical factors to consider when choosing a camera is its image and video quality. Thankfully, the Nikon S3100 does not disappoint in this area.
The camera’s 14-megapixel CCD sensor captures sharp and detailed images with vibrant colors and accurate skin tones. The 5x optical zoom lens is ideal for capturing distant objects, and it works well in low-light conditions, thanks to its maximum aperture of f/3.2-6.5.
The S3100 can also shoot 720p HD videos at 30fps, which is impressive for a camera in this price range. The videos are clear and smooth, with excellent color reproduction and minimal noise.
Features and Performance
The Nikon S3100 comes with several features that make it easy to use and customize. It has a Smart Portrait System that includes face detection, smile detection, and skin softening features, which are great for taking portraits.
The camera also has various scene modes, including beach, snow, sunset, and night portrait, that adjust the settings for optimal results in different lighting conditions. It also has a macro mode that allows you to focus on objects as close as 10cm from the lens.
The S3100 is not the fastest camera on the market, with a start-up time of around 1.5 seconds and a shot-to-shot time of 2.5 seconds. However, for casual photography needs, it performs well, and you’ll get the desired picture without any hassle.
Battery Life
With a CIPA rating of 220 shots per charge, the Nikon S3100’s battery life is average for a compact camera. However, it’s essential to remember that battery life can vary depending on different factors, such as usage, temperature, and the age of the battery.
It’s a good idea to carry an extra battery when traveling or shooting for extended periods.
Price and Value
The Nikon S3100 is an affordable camera that’s priced well under $100, making it an excellent value for its price point. It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking for a point-and-shoot camera that takes great photos and videos without breaking the bank.
Why Do Photographers Need to Buy a Nikon S3100 Camera?
Photographers may consider purchasing a Nikon S3100 camera because it is a compact and affordable option that offers a variety of features. The camera boasts 14 megapixels, a 5x optical zoom lens, and a 2.7-inch LCD display, making it suitable for capturing both high-quality images and videos. Its compact size and lightweight design make it easy to carry around, making it an ideal option for traveling photographers or those who prefer a portable camera. Additionally, the camera’s various shooting modes, such as night landscape and portrait, allow for flexibility in shooting various types of scenes. Overall, the Nikon S3100 is a solid option for photographers looking for a reliable, affordable, and portable camera.
Recommended: Nikon L31 Camera Review
Pros
- Compact and lightweight design, making it easy to carry around
- Affordable price point compared to other cameras with similar features
- Various shooting modes for flexibility in different environments
- Decent image quality with 14 megapixels
- Electronic VR (Vibration Reduction) for image stabilization
- 720p HD video recording capability
Cons
- Limited zoom capabilities with only 5x optical zoom
- Small 2.7-inch LCD screen may make it difficult to see images in bright light
- Limited ISO range may make it difficult to capture high-quality images in low-light environments
- Short battery life with only up to 220 shots per charge
Nikon S3100 Camera Features Table:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Megapixels | 14 MP |
| Zoom | 5x optical zoom |
| Screen size | 2.7-inch LCD display |
| Video recording | 720p HD video recording capability |
| Image stabilization | Electronic VR (Vibration Reduction) |
| ISO range | ISO 80-3200 |
| Shooting modes | Various shooting modes including portrait and night landscape |
| Battery life | Up to 220 shots per charge |
| Size and weight | Compact and lightweight, easy to carry around |
What type of memory card does the Nikon S3100 use?
The Nikon S3100 uses an SD (Secure Digital) memory card. It’s compatible with SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards, and it has a slot for the memory card on the side of the camera.
How long does the battery last on the Nikon S3100?
The Nikon S3100’s battery life depends on various factors, such as usage, temperature, and battery age. However, on average, the camera can take up to 220 shots per charge, according to CIPA ratings. It’s important to note that carrying an extra battery when traveling or shooting for extended periods is recommended.
Can you use the Nikon S3100 while it’s charging?
Yes, you can use the Nikon S3100 while it’s charging. You should connect the camera to a wall charger or computer using the included USB cable to charge it. Once the camera is fully charged, you can unplug it and use it for taking photos and videos.
Does the Nikon S3100 have a manual focus option?
No, the Nikon S3100 does not have a manual focus option. It has an AF (Auto-Focus) feature that automatically focuses on the subject, and you can modify the focus point by moving the autofocus area to different parts of the frame.
Can you shoot RAW images with the Nikon S3100?
No, the Nikon S3100 cannot shoot RAW images. It can only shoot JPEG images, which are smaller in size and easier to share and edit on a computer or smartphone.
How do you transfer photos from the Nikon S3100 to a computer or smartphone?
You can transfer photos from the Nikon S3100 to a computer or smartphone using a USB cable or wirelessly via Nikon’s SnapBridge app. To transfer photos using a USB cable, connect the camera to your computer or smartphone using the included cable and follow the instructions for importing photos.
What type of lens does the Nikon S3100 have?
The Nikon S3100 has a 5x optical zoom lens with a focal length of 26-130mm. It has a maximum aperture of f/3.2-6.5, which is suitable for low-light shooting.
