Nikon Coolpix P3

Likes

- Adding VR on these models is a nice touch - Classy design - New Graphic User Interface is easy to follow and an improvement over previous versions - Face-Priority AF is just plain fun - At 8 MP, resolution in these small cameras is substantial

Dislikes

- No manual white balance - Does not enable user to manually select shutter speed - Some of the buttons are too small for big hands to access - A top-of-the-line Coolpix should have more manual control - Small size and design of camera makes it easy to drop - Nikon needs to give a compelling argument to upgrade to the WiFi P3 model

Conclusion
There’s something definitely likeable about these two new Coolpix models. While the sleek, rounded metal construction definitely owes something to Canon’s latest top-of-the-line ELPH models, because these Coolpixes are cast from aluminum they feel lighter and more resistant to scratching. The 8 MPs in both cameras is impressive and features like VR are great ideas, but we’d like to fully put these models through their paces to see how effective the vibration reduction is in a variety of settings and circumstances. Also, while the P3features WiFi for an extra $50, the jury is still out on what the real practical applications this affords the user. Plus, it would be nice to see Nikon throw in their Wireless Print Adaptor for free.

Overall though, there’s a lot to like about these two stylish new Coolpix models. Whether professionals will buy up these pocket-sized models as a good toss-in-the-bag point-and-shooter when they’re “off duty” or whether they’ll be snapped up by weekend warriors to take pictures of their yachting parties remains to seen. We look forward to testing them more extensively in our full review.