Nikon has come to CES with some updates to its DSLR and COOLPIX lineups, with the D5600 DSLR, COOLPIX A300, and COOLPIX W100. The D5600 was already announced in some markets, and will now be available in the USA. This mid-range DSLR offers slight improvements over its predecessor, namely the addition of Bluetooth to Snapbridge connectivity, improved touchscreen functionality, and a time-lapse movie mode. The COOLPIX A300 is an extremely compact point-and-shoot with a 20.1MP 1/2.3" CCD sensor and an 8x optical zoom lens equivalent to 25-200mm, as well as Snapbridge. The tough COOLPIX W100 is another connected camera with Snapbridge, but features waterproofing to 33' along with easy-to-understand controls for use by the whole family, in a wide range of conditions.
A very well-rounded camera, the D5600 is a compact choice that features a 24.2MP DX-format CMOS sensor, which removes the optical low-pass filter along with the EXPEED 4 image processor to produce sharp stills at sensitivities up to ISO 25600. This camera is a great choice for filmmakers, as well, with Full HD 1080p video at up to 60 fps and a new time-lapse movie mode. Also, it offers continuous shooting at up to 5 fps and a 39-point AF system for speed. The main improvements to the camera come in the form of connectivity and operation. Snapbridge gets a big upgrade with the implementation of Bluetooth along with Wi-Fi and NFC. This allows for a constant connection between the camera and a smart device, enabling automatic image transfer, date/time sync, location information, and more. The vari-angle 3.2" 1.037m-dot touchscreen also received some changes—it now features the frame advance bar found in the D5 and D500, auto ISO control as an option for the touch Fn function, and improved functionality when using the optical viewfinder.
The D5600 is available as a body only or as a kit with an 18-55mm lens, with an 18-140mm lens, or with 18-55mm and 70-300mm lenses.
For the more casual photographer, Nikon has made the A300 available, which features Snapbridge with Wi-Fi, NFC, and Bluetooth for quickly sending images to a mobile device for sharing. The camera is extremely compact and features a durable aluminum body, making it great for everyday carry. It is also a capable imaging machine, with a 20.1MP 1/2.3" CCD sensor and an 8x optical zoom lens equivalent to 25-200mm. It also features 16x Dynamic Fine Zoom, optical VR and a 4-axis Hybrid VR for compensating for camera shake, and a macro focusing distance of just 0.8" for close-ups. It also offers a Target Finding AF, which helps with tracking and can record HD 720p video at 30 fps. Other features include a Help mode to guide new users, a Scene Auto Selector chooses settings automatically, and Snapbridge now permits for instant transfer, remote shooting, location information, and more.
For those looking for a tougher camera to take everywhere they could possibly want to go, there is the COOLPIX W100 which is waterproof to 33', shockproof to 6', and freeze-proof to 14°F. Designed to be easy to use, the W100 is a great option for families and, thanks to its durability, you won’t have to worry about handing it to younger kids or taking it on vacations to ski slopes or the beach. The camera can capture sharp images, as well, with a 13.2MP 1/3.1" CMOS sensor and a 3x optical zoom lens equivalent to 30-90mm. It also features Snapbridge for connecting to a mobile device, electronic VR, and Full HD 1080p video recording. Other functions include built-in effects, a welcome screen that updates based on usage, and a rounded design for good grip. The W100 is available in Blue or White.
