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.
Read the full review →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.
90-Day Price History
Critic reviews
sort by
The rugged Nikon Coolpix AW100 is a fine choice for shallow water or dry land adventures -- just make sure you have plenty of light.
Read the full review →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.
Read the full review →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.
Read the full review →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
Read the full review →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.
Read the full review →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,...
Read the full review →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.
Read the full review →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.
Read the full review →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...
Read the full review →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.
Read the full review →How it stacks up
Instantly compare the Nikon COOLPIX AW100 side by side with some of the top devices on gdgt!
Compare these-
Nikon COOLPIX AW100 75 from $154 -
Sony α NEX-5R 92 from $439 -
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 91 from $605 -
Canon PowerShot S100 (late 2011) 92 from $334 -
Canon EOS 5D Mark III 88 from $2794
Other Nikon cameras
-
Nikon D7100 85 from $1169 -
Nikon D7000 90 from $808 -
Nikon D5100 85 from $596 -
Nikon D3100 81 from $446 -
Nikon D600 86 from $1779
Don't forget to check out these other devices by Nikon, you might find something good!