Nikon Coolpix P90

Overview

The best feature of the Nikon P90 is its huge 24x optical zoom as well as its ability to capture 12.1-megapixel images. The camera is loaded with a 1/2.33-inch CCD sensor and the lens offers a whopping focal length of 4.6 - 110.4mm (a 35mm equivalent of 26 - 624mm). This large zoom definitely makes the P90 chunkier than most of the ultra-compact digital cameras that are popular right now, but it's still much smaller than your average SLR camera. The size and shape of the P90 also gives you plenty to hold onto when your framing your shot. The camera is only available in matte black.

The P90 features a huge 24x optical zoom.

Front

The front is dominated by the large Nikkor 24x optical zoom lens. Above the Nikon logo is a pop-up flash and an autofocus-assist lamp is located to the left of the lens.

The Nikon P90 has a 24x optical zoom

Back

The 3-inch LCD screen takes up the left portion of the back side. Above it is a generously-sized electronic viewfinder that is flanked by two buttons—live view (for turning the LCD on) and display. To the right of the LCD screen is another cluster of buttons, including a four-way control. The playback button is here, as is menu, trash, self-timer, flash control, exposure adjust, and macro focus. In the top corner is a control dial for making manual adjustments.

The 3-inch LCD screen takes up most of the back side.

Sides

The left side has only one button and pressing it pops up the internal flash. There's also a speaker here that outputs audio during movie playback. Above the speaker is a hinge for attaching a neck or shoulder strap.

Pressing the flash button opens the pop-up flash.

The right side is also quite barren. A small port cover is located on this side and opening it reveals the USB port, which also acts as an A/V-output. Another metal hinge is located here for attaching the other end of a neck or shoulder strap. The right side is also much bulkier than the left, as it is designed to allow for a better grip.

The A/V-out and USB port are located on the right side.

Top

From the top you can get the best idea of the P90's overall shape and design. The lens barrel is almost flush with the left side of the camera, while the right side juts out at a near 90-degree angle to give you something you can wrap your fingers around. This image also gives you a good view of how large the lens is on the camera. As far as controls are concerned, the top hosts the camera's mode dial, on/off switch, shutter button, and zoom toggle.

The P90's overall shape resembles that of an SLR.

Bottom

Besides housing the battery, memory card, and tripod mount, the bottom of the P90 doesn't have much going on. The camera runs on a rechargeable lithium-ion battery (EN-EL5) and captures photos to SD/SDHC memory cards.

The battery and memory card live beneath the port cover on the far right.