| Likes |
-5x zoom with optical image stabilization
-Easy handling for a point-and-shoot
-Manual controls for shutter speed and aperture
-Simple menu system
-Wide 16:9 shooting
-Accepts multiple battery types |
| Dislikes |
-2.5-inch LCD is behind the curve
-Lacks the fancy, exciting features of many similarly priced cameras
|
Conclusion
We think the Nikon Coolpix P60 camera will perform similarly to the earlier P50, which is $30 less now. At an original retail price of $229.95, the P60 ups the optical zoom to 5x, and has lens shifting image stabilization. The camera carries over face detection, which Nikon calls Face Priority. These features are key for image performance, but the camera lacks the attention-grabbing specs of rival skinny types with waterproof, wireless, or touch screen features. Instead of targeting trendy point-and-shooters, the Coolpix P60 vies for the attention of advanced users who want manual functions in a portable body. The prototype model on the PMA show floor did not perform well. The initial camera model stalled and had to be restarted often. But if the final camera performs as well as previous Coolpix models have, we anticipate the Nikon Coolpix P60 should make a strong play for this niche market.
