75

Conclusion: We're mixed

It has a limited zoom range. It doesn't excel at taking pictures when lighting conditions are less than ideal. And its image quality is bested by numerous cheaper point-and-shoots. But in its class of ruggedized, waterproof cameras, the Coolpix AW100 is a contender. It's able to shoot relatively sharp images as long as the lighting is good, it produces good full-HD video, has built-in GPS functions, and can be used just about anywhere. It's doubtful you'd pick the Coolpix AW100 as your primary camera, but if you don't want to take your DSLR (or smartphone) on that mountain-climbing or kayaking trip, the AW100 could be a good travel companion — though you may also want to consider a less expensive rugged, GPS-enabled camera, like Fuji's XP30.

Buy It:

$154.95
$197.95

90-Day Price History

now
high
$278
low
$197

Critic reviews

7.5
9 reviews
  • Image quality
    6.6
  • Video quality
    7.0
  • Battery life
    6.5
  • Design and form factor
    7.2
  • Durability
    7.6
  • Speed (start-up time, lag)
    7.7
  • Ease of use
    6.9

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User reviews

6.8
4 reviews
  • Image quality | 1 comment
    8.0
  • Video quality
    8.5
  • Battery life
    6.5
  • Design and form factor
    9.5
  • Durability | 2 comments
    7.0
  • Speed (start-up time, lag)
    7.0
  • Ease of use
    8.0
8.0
PC Mag Dec 20, 2011

The Nikon Coolpix AW100 is a rugged point-and-shoot camera that, while a bit on the pricey side, captures sharp images and can take quite a beating without a hiccup.

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7.0
CNET Jul 3, 2012

The rugged Nikon Coolpix AW100 is a fine choice for shallow water or dry land adventures -- just make sure you have plenty of light.

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8.0
DigitalCameraInfo Nov 28, 2011

For most users seeking an adventure-proof upgrade, it’s hard to go wrong with the Nikon Coolpix AW100, our overall best rugged camera of 2011.

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7.0
Imaging Resource Jul 10, 2012

Boasting GPS, shockproof, waterproof, and freezeproof capabilities, and a trend-setting appearance, the Nikon AW100 doesn't quite rise to the challenge of creating crisp images worthy of its 16-megapixel sensor.

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8.0
TechRadar Nov 14, 2011

There are always compromises to be made with image quality when you're looking for the convenience of a camera that you can play rough with. While the Nikon Coolpix AW100 has its issues, it is capable of delivering colourful, attractive images for its class

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8.0
TrustedReviews Jun 29, 2012

Well-featured and generally easy to use, the only real criticism we have with the camera’s design is with the small, tightly packed buttons. Otherwise, it’s a highly likeable and well-featured little camera that delivers consistently solid image quality.

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7.0
Digital Camera Review Dec 30, 2011

For those leading an adventurous life wishing to record it using a camera that can keep up as well as hold up, the Nikon Coolpix AW100 is a fine choice. What it is lacking in the noise-to-signal department, in somewhat flat colors and battery retention it makes up for with convenience, ease-of-use,...

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6.0
IT Pro Portal Sep 30, 2012

The CoolPix AW100 is a bit of a disappointment, especially given the high standards one usually expects from Nikon. Although its build quality and all-weather credentials are up to the expected standard ... the fiddly controls, lackluster image quality and hopeless GPS system are a big let-down.

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10
Photography Blog Nov 16, 2011

As ever with such a specialized camera, you really need to decide exactly how much mileage you'll get out of the extra weather-proof and GPS features. If they fit your particular bill, then we can definitely recommend the new Nikon Coolpix AW100.

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8.0
albertoziveri albertoziveri

I had the Powershot D10, the first great waterproof compact camera. This year I decided to buy, as compact camera (I already own a Canon 600d and a Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III), the Nikon Coolpix Aw100. 16 mpx, GPS and full hd video were the major features that convinced me to replace my D10. I think...

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2.0
treid treid

I'm glad I purchased this at Costco. I can return it and try again... Very dissapointed with Nikon. I trust their dslr's, but I have had very bad luck with Nikon's small cameras.

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