Nikon Coolpix S500

- Compact body
- Rotary dial
- Big, readable menus
- 60 fps live preview
- Nice LCD
- Optical image stabilization
- Solid handling of noise at lower ISO settingsDislikes- Shutter lag
- Inaccurate colors
- Limited dynamic range
- Poor white balance accuracy
- Corner softness
- No real auto mode
- Poor video performance
- Inaccurate live preview
- Limited LCD angle
- Weak battery
- Unreliable burst mode

Conclusion
The Nikon Coolpix S500 introduces a new design into the already scattered S-series. Most of the lineup has a slim aesthetic with an internal lens. A few models have split bodies that twist to offer more optical zoom. The 7.1-megapixel Nikon Coolpix S500 instead goes back to basics by offering a flat metal camera body with an extending 3x optical zoom lens. Its features cover the basics too: automated exposure modes and simple slide shows that don’t have music and funky transitions like many of its S-series siblings. It also has a more basic $299 price point. There are a few flourishes like optical image stabilization and a 60 fps live preview on a high-resolution LCD screen. Shutter lag is probably the camera’s biggest drawback with the weak 180-shot battery coming in a close second, although the latter can be remedied by simply carrying around an extra battery. In terms of image quality, the S500 struggles with color and white balance accuracy, but shows average noise characteristics at its lower ISO settings (ISO 400 and below). Dynamic range and video performance are also below our expectations. However, the Coolpix S500's intuitive interface and automated feature options are its saving grace, providing one of the stronger point-and-shoot designs Nikon has put out in recent years. While there is still plenty of room for improvement, the S500 offers casual snapshooters a basic, stylish alternative at a competitive price.