![\"\"](\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/Canon-PowerShot-D30.jpg\")
\nCanon PowerShot D30 at a glance:<\/h2>\n\n- Large buttons and easy to use<\/li>\n
- Strong underwater performance<\/li>\n
- Powers up quickly after being frozen<\/li>\n
- Doesn\u2019t offer raw format recording<\/li>\n
- Sensor: 12.1MP<\/li>\n
- Sensor size: 1\/2.3in<\/li>\n
- Lens: 5x optical (28-140mm) f\/3.9-4.8<\/li>\n
- ISO 100-3200<\/li>\n
- Display: 3in, 416k-dot<\/li>\n
- Video: Full HD (1920×1080<\/li>\n
- Dimensions: 109.4x68x27.5mm<\/li>\n
- Weight: 218g<\/li>\n
- Price: \u00a3229<\/li>\n
- Website: www.canon.co.uk<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\nThe Canon D30 is three years old and is starting to show its age. It lets you shoot below the water to a depth of 25m, can withstand a drop from a height of 2m and is freezeproof to -10 \u00b0C. Regrettably, though, it doesn\u2019t let you shoot in raw format like the Olympus TG-5.<\/p>\n
Behind the 5x optical zoom (28-140mm) lies a 12.1MP CMOS sensor that pairs up with a DIGIC 4 processor to deliver an ISO range of 100-3200. Its 1.9fps burst is extremely slow by today\u2019s standards and makes it challenging to get that perfect shot underwater at the right time. It is equipped with GPS and an IS system to prevent blur caused by camera shake, but lacks Wi-Fi and USB charging, and is susceptible to light scratching on the screen.<\/p>\n\t\t
\n\t\t\t![\"\"](\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/Canon-PowerShot-D30-details.jpg\")
\t\t\tThe evaluative metering mode delivered consistently good exposures during our testing<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n
The D30 doesn\u2019t offer a great deal in the form of a handgrip, either. You do get a rubber grip at the front and rear to prevent it sliding out of your hands when they\u2019re wet, but there are other tough cameras in this round-up that are more comfortable to hold. The concise menu is quick to navigate and the centre Func.Set button can be used to access frequently used settings in all the shooting modes.<\/p>\n
Unlike its rivals that come in a variety of colours and finishes, it\u2019s only available in metallic blue.<\/p>\n
At ISO 100, the D30 resolves 2,400 lines per picture height (l\/ ph), with fine detail being affected by noise beyond ISO 800. Users should avoid using ISO 1600 and 3200 for the best results. The evaluative metering mode delivers consistently good exposures and images are rich in colour without being too saturated.<\/p>\n\t\t
\n\t\t\t![\"\"](\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/Canon-PowerShot-D30-underwater-results.jpg\")
\t\t\tThe D30 delivered the best results underwater. Colours are bright, vibrant and faithfully reproduced<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n
The camera exposed well underwater and the auto white balance produced the most neutral colour of the four cameras. After freezing it overnight and breaking it out of a block of ice, it took 40 seconds to power up. A minute later, the shutter button had defrosted fully to allow shots to be taken. Our final test involved dropping it from arm\u2019s length onto a solid concrete floor. The plastic surround around the lens took the brunt of the fall and did crack slightly, although this didn\u2019t upset operation.<\/p>\n
While there are things to like about the D30 \u2013 its large buttons, intuitive menu, active display and close focusing being a few examples \u2013 it lags behind the competition in the key areas. In short, it\u2019s not terrible, but your money could be put towards a better example.<\/p>\n
SCORE: 3 out of 5<\/h2>\n
\nFujifilm FinePix XP120<\/h2>\n![\"\"](\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/Fujifilm-FinePix-XP120.jpg\")
\nFujifilm FinePix XP120 at a glance:<\/h2>\n\n- Suitable for single-handed operation<\/li>\n
- Well laid out buttons across the body<\/li>\n
- Supports USB charging<\/li>\n
- Offers little rubberised grip<\/li>\n
- Sensor: 16.4MP<\/li>\n
- Sensor size: 1\/2.3in<\/li>\n
- Lens: 5x optical (28-140mm f\/3.9-4.9<\/li>\n
- ISO: 100-6400<\/li>\n
- Display: 3in, 920k-dot<\/li>\n
- Video: Full HD (19200×1080)<\/li>\n
- Dimensions: 109.6x71x27.8mm<\/li>\n
- Weight: 203g<\/li>\n
- Price: \u00a3199<\/li>\n
- Website: www.fujifilm.co.uk<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\nDespite feeling more plasticky than the other three cameras, the XP120 is waterproof to a depth of 20m, can withstand a drop from 1.75m and can operate in temperatures as low as -10\u00b0C. Behind its 5x optical zoom (28-140mm) is a 16.4MP back-illuminated CMOS sensor. This permits shooting across an ISO 100-6400 range. Like its rivals it provides \u00b12EV exposure compensation and there\u2019s Wi-Fi to link it to any mobile devices using Fujifilm\u2019s Camera Remote app.<\/p>\n
In addition to its rugged credentials, it has optical image stabilisation, shoots continuously at 10fps for a maximum of 10 frames at full resolution, and supports face detection as well as full HD (1920×1080) video. At the rear, you get a 3in, 920k-dot display, but annoyingly it doesn\u2019t rotate images in playback mode when the camera is tilted, in the way that the D30 and TG-5 do. The double-lock mechanism at the side prevents the battery compartment from being accidentally opened and below the SD card slot there\u2019s an interface that supports USB charging.<\/p>\n\t\t
\n\t\t\t![\"\"](\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/Fujifilm-FinePix-XP120-details.jpg\")
\t\t\tThe XP120 struggles to resolve the same level of details as its closest rivals<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n
The camera offers little in terms of a rubberised grip, so it does get rather slippery to hold when your hands get wet. The zoom buttons protrude, making them easy to operate with your thumb and the camera can be operated single-handedly without difficulty. The menu looks somewhat dated compared to Fujifilm\u2019s mirrorless cameras, but thankfully it\u2019s easy enough to navigate.<\/p>\n
The sensor doesn\u2019t resolve the same level of detail as its rivals. You\u2019ll want to use it below ISO 400 whenever possible and our outdoor testing revealed that it has a tendency to underexpose a little in high-contrast conditions.<\/p>\n\t\t
\n\t\t\t![\"\"](\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/Fujifilm-FinePix-XP120-underwater-results.jpg\")
\t\t\tThe XP120’s auto white balance system doesn’t render colour as accurately as its rivals underwater<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n
Images taken in its underwater mode have a cool feel and its autofocus didn\u2019t lock on to our colour chart as fast as the TG-5. After being smashed out of the ice, it powered up after 2 minutes 40 seconds. The shutter button was frozen solid but after 3 minutes 11 seconds it became fully operational again. It passed the drop test with only a small mark on the corner of the body where it took the brunt of the impact.<\/p>\n
Those who are working to a \u00a3200 budget may be tempted by what it offers for the price \u2013 just don\u2019t expect the same results or the level of build quality you\u2019ll get from
\nspending more on one of the alternatives.<\/p>\n
SCORE: 2.5 out of 5<\/h2>\n
\nNikon Coolpix AW130<\/h2>\n![\"\"](\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/Nikon-Coolpix-AW130.jpg\")
\nNikon Coolpix AW130 at a glance:<\/h2>\n\n- Wide zoom range<\/li>\n
- Altimeter and depth gauge for diving<\/li>\n
- Supports USB charging<\/li>\n
- Unable to match TG-5 focus speeds<\/li>\n
- Sensor: 16MP<\/li>\n
- Sensor size: 1\/2.3in<\/li>\n
- Lens: 5x optical (24-120mm) f\/2.8-4.9<\/li>\n
- ISO: 125-6400<\/li>\n
- Display: 3in, 921k-dot<\/li>\n
- Video: Full HD (1920×1080)<\/li>\n
- Dimensions: 110.4x66x26.8mm<\/li>\n
- Price: \u00a3240<\/li>\n
- Website: www.nikon.co.uk<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\nThe Nikon AW130 is a couple of years old, and although it has been superseded by the new Coolpix W300, we\u2019re no closer to seeing one in the flesh. Available in black, red, yellow and blue, as well as a more unusual camouflage finish, the AW130 features a 16MP CMOS sensor and 5x optical zoom covering a 24-120mm range.<\/p>\n
Cold-resistant to -10 \u00b0C, shockproof from 2m and usable at depths down to 30m underwater, it boasts an altimeter and depth gauge, and can shoot continuously at up to 7fps. The 3in, 921k-dot screen has the highest resolution of the four on test and displays a very crisp image. Lens shift VR and Electronic VR team up together to effectively compensate for camera shake, and the sensitivity can be manually set anywhere between ISO 125- 6400. The battery door at the side locks securely like the XP120\u2019s and behind it you\u2019ll find a USB port that facilitates charging on the go so you don\u2019t run out.<\/p>\n\t\t
\n\t\t\t![\"Best](\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/Nikon-Coolpix-AW130-detail.jpg\")
\t\t\tDetail starts to get heavily affected by noise beyond ISO 800<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n
There\u2019s no shortage of buttons at the rear and the zoom is operated by your thumb as opposed to your index finger. The only issue is that the buttons are on the small side, so those with larger fingers are likely to find it fiddly to use. The overall build and finish meets the high standard we have come to expect from Nikon.<\/p>\n
Detail resolved from the 1\/2.3in sensor is good, with 2,400 l\/ph being resolved at its lowest ISO setting. Detail drops off beyond ISO 400, and ISO 800 is the upper limit we\u2019d be prepared to push to on a regular basis.<\/p>\n\t\t
\n
The Canon D30 is three years old and is starting to show its age. It lets you shoot below the water to a depth of 25m, can withstand a drop from a height of 2m and is freezeproof to -10 \u00b0C. Regrettably, though, it doesn\u2019t let you shoot in raw format like the Olympus TG-5.<\/p>\n
Behind the 5x optical zoom (28-140mm) lies a 12.1MP CMOS sensor that pairs up with a DIGIC 4 processor to deliver an ISO range of 100-3200. Its 1.9fps burst is extremely slow by today\u2019s standards and makes it challenging to get that perfect shot underwater at the right time. It is equipped with GPS and an IS system to prevent blur caused by camera shake, but lacks Wi-Fi and USB charging, and is susceptible to light scratching on the screen.<\/p>\n\t\t
\t\t\tThe evaluative metering mode delivered consistently good exposures during our testing<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n
The D30 doesn\u2019t offer a great deal in the form of a handgrip, either. You do get a rubber grip at the front and rear to prevent it sliding out of your hands when they\u2019re wet, but there are other tough cameras in this round-up that are more comfortable to hold. The concise menu is quick to navigate and the centre Func.Set button can be used to access frequently used settings in all the shooting modes.<\/p>\n
Unlike its rivals that come in a variety of colours and finishes, it\u2019s only available in metallic blue.<\/p>\n
At ISO 100, the D30 resolves 2,400 lines per picture height (l\/ ph), with fine detail being affected by noise beyond ISO 800. Users should avoid using ISO 1600 and 3200 for the best results. The evaluative metering mode delivers consistently good exposures and images are rich in colour without being too saturated.<\/p>\n\t\t
\t\t\tThe D30 delivered the best results underwater. Colours are bright, vibrant and faithfully reproduced<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n
The camera exposed well underwater and the auto white balance produced the most neutral colour of the four cameras. After freezing it overnight and breaking it out of a block of ice, it took 40 seconds to power up. A minute later, the shutter button had defrosted fully to allow shots to be taken. Our final test involved dropping it from arm\u2019s length onto a solid concrete floor. The plastic surround around the lens took the brunt of the fall and did crack slightly, although this didn\u2019t upset operation.<\/p>\n
While there are things to like about the D30 \u2013 its large buttons, intuitive menu, active display and close focusing being a few examples \u2013 it lags behind the competition in the key areas. In short, it\u2019s not terrible, but your money could be put towards a better example.<\/p>\n
SCORE: 3 out of 5<\/h2>\n
\nFujifilm FinePix XP120<\/h2>\n\nFujifilm FinePix XP120 at a glance:<\/h2>\n\n- Suitable for single-handed operation<\/li>\n
- Well laid out buttons across the body<\/li>\n
- Supports USB charging<\/li>\n
- Offers little rubberised grip<\/li>\n
- Sensor: 16.4MP<\/li>\n
- Sensor size: 1\/2.3in<\/li>\n
- Lens: 5x optical (28-140mm f\/3.9-4.9<\/li>\n
- ISO: 100-6400<\/li>\n
- Display: 3in, 920k-dot<\/li>\n
- Video: Full HD (19200×1080)<\/li>\n
- Dimensions: 109.6x71x27.8mm<\/li>\n
- Weight: 203g<\/li>\n
- Price: \u00a3199<\/li>\n
- Website: www.fujifilm.co.uk<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\nDespite feeling more plasticky than the other three cameras, the XP120 is waterproof to a depth of 20m, can withstand a drop from 1.75m and can operate in temperatures as low as -10\u00b0C. Behind its 5x optical zoom (28-140mm) is a 16.4MP back-illuminated CMOS sensor. This permits shooting across an ISO 100-6400 range. Like its rivals it provides \u00b12EV exposure compensation and there\u2019s Wi-Fi to link it to any mobile devices using Fujifilm\u2019s Camera Remote app.<\/p>\n
In addition to its rugged credentials, it has optical image stabilisation, shoots continuously at 10fps for a maximum of 10 frames at full resolution, and supports face detection as well as full HD (1920×1080) video. At the rear, you get a 3in, 920k-dot display, but annoyingly it doesn\u2019t rotate images in playback mode when the camera is tilted, in the way that the D30 and TG-5 do. The double-lock mechanism at the side prevents the battery compartment from being accidentally opened and below the SD card slot there\u2019s an interface that supports USB charging.<\/p>\n\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\tThe XP120 struggles to resolve the same level of details as its closest rivals<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n
The camera offers little in terms of a rubberised grip, so it does get rather slippery to hold when your hands get wet. The zoom buttons protrude, making them easy to operate with your thumb and the camera can be operated single-handedly without difficulty. The menu looks somewhat dated compared to Fujifilm\u2019s mirrorless cameras, but thankfully it\u2019s easy enough to navigate.<\/p>\n
The sensor doesn\u2019t resolve the same level of detail as its rivals. You\u2019ll want to use it below ISO 400 whenever possible and our outdoor testing revealed that it has a tendency to underexpose a little in high-contrast conditions.<\/p>\n\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\tThe XP120’s auto white balance system doesn’t render colour as accurately as its rivals underwater<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n
Images taken in its underwater mode have a cool feel and its autofocus didn\u2019t lock on to our colour chart as fast as the TG-5. After being smashed out of the ice, it powered up after 2 minutes 40 seconds. The shutter button was frozen solid but after 3 minutes 11 seconds it became fully operational again. It passed the drop test with only a small mark on the corner of the body where it took the brunt of the impact.<\/p>\n
Those who are working to a \u00a3200 budget may be tempted by what it offers for the price \u2013 just don\u2019t expect the same results or the level of build quality you\u2019ll get from
\nspending more on one of the alternatives.<\/p>\n
SCORE: 2.5 out of 5<\/h2>\n
\nNikon Coolpix AW130<\/h2>\n\nNikon Coolpix AW130 at a glance:<\/h2>\n\n- Wide zoom range<\/li>\n
- Altimeter and depth gauge for diving<\/li>\n
- Supports USB charging<\/li>\n
- Unable to match TG-5 focus speeds<\/li>\n
- Sensor: 16MP<\/li>\n
- Sensor size: 1\/2.3in<\/li>\n
- Lens: 5x optical (24-120mm) f\/2.8-4.9<\/li>\n
- ISO: 125-6400<\/li>\n
- Display: 3in, 921k-dot<\/li>\n
- Video: Full HD (1920×1080)<\/li>\n
- Dimensions: 110.4x66x26.8mm<\/li>\n
- Price: \u00a3240<\/li>\n
- Website: www.nikon.co.uk<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\nThe Nikon AW130 is a couple of years old, and although it has been superseded by the new Coolpix W300, we\u2019re no closer to seeing one in the flesh. Available in black, red, yellow and blue, as well as a more unusual camouflage finish, the AW130 features a 16MP CMOS sensor and 5x optical zoom covering a 24-120mm range.<\/p>\n
Cold-resistant to -10 \u00b0C, shockproof from 2m and usable at depths down to 30m underwater, it boasts an altimeter and depth gauge, and can shoot continuously at up to 7fps. The 3in, 921k-dot screen has the highest resolution of the four on test and displays a very crisp image. Lens shift VR and Electronic VR team up together to effectively compensate for camera shake, and the sensitivity can be manually set anywhere between ISO 125- 6400. The battery door at the side locks securely like the XP120\u2019s and behind it you\u2019ll find a USB port that facilitates charging on the go so you don\u2019t run out.<\/p>\n\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\tDetail starts to get heavily affected by noise beyond ISO 800<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n
There\u2019s no shortage of buttons at the rear and the zoom is operated by your thumb as opposed to your index finger. The only issue is that the buttons are on the small side, so those with larger fingers are likely to find it fiddly to use. The overall build and finish meets the high standard we have come to expect from Nikon.<\/p>\n
Detail resolved from the 1\/2.3in sensor is good, with 2,400 l\/ph being resolved at its lowest ISO setting. Detail drops off beyond ISO 400, and ISO 800 is the upper limit we\u2019d be prepared to push to on a regular basis.<\/p>\n\t\t
\nFujifilm FinePix XP120 at a glance:<\/h2>\n\n- Suitable for single-handed operation<\/li>\n
- Well laid out buttons across the body<\/li>\n
- Supports USB charging<\/li>\n
- Offers little rubberised grip<\/li>\n
- Sensor: 16.4MP<\/li>\n
- Sensor size: 1\/2.3in<\/li>\n
- Lens: 5x optical (28-140mm f\/3.9-4.9<\/li>\n
- ISO: 100-6400<\/li>\n
- Display: 3in, 920k-dot<\/li>\n
- Video: Full HD (19200×1080)<\/li>\n
- Dimensions: 109.6x71x27.8mm<\/li>\n
- Weight: 203g<\/li>\n
- Price: \u00a3199<\/li>\n
- Website: www.fujifilm.co.uk<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\nDespite feeling more plasticky than the other three cameras, the XP120 is waterproof to a depth of 20m, can withstand a drop from 1.75m and can operate in temperatures as low as -10\u00b0C. Behind its 5x optical zoom (28-140mm) is a 16.4MP back-illuminated CMOS sensor. This permits shooting across an ISO 100-6400 range. Like its rivals it provides \u00b12EV exposure compensation and there\u2019s Wi-Fi to link it to any mobile devices using Fujifilm\u2019s Camera Remote app.<\/p>\n
In addition to its rugged credentials, it has optical image stabilisation, shoots continuously at 10fps for a maximum of 10 frames at full resolution, and supports face detection as well as full HD (1920×1080) video. At the rear, you get a 3in, 920k-dot display, but annoyingly it doesn\u2019t rotate images in playback mode when the camera is tilted, in the way that the D30 and TG-5 do. The double-lock mechanism at the side prevents the battery compartment from being accidentally opened and below the SD card slot there\u2019s an interface that supports USB charging.<\/p>\n\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\tThe XP120 struggles to resolve the same level of details as its closest rivals<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n
The camera offers little in terms of a rubberised grip, so it does get rather slippery to hold when your hands get wet. The zoom buttons protrude, making them easy to operate with your thumb and the camera can be operated single-handedly without difficulty. The menu looks somewhat dated compared to Fujifilm\u2019s mirrorless cameras, but thankfully it\u2019s easy enough to navigate.<\/p>\n
The sensor doesn\u2019t resolve the same level of detail as its rivals. You\u2019ll want to use it below ISO 400 whenever possible and our outdoor testing revealed that it has a tendency to underexpose a little in high-contrast conditions.<\/p>\n\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\tThe XP120’s auto white balance system doesn’t render colour as accurately as its rivals underwater<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n
Images taken in its underwater mode have a cool feel and its autofocus didn\u2019t lock on to our colour chart as fast as the TG-5. After being smashed out of the ice, it powered up after 2 minutes 40 seconds. The shutter button was frozen solid but after 3 minutes 11 seconds it became fully operational again. It passed the drop test with only a small mark on the corner of the body where it took the brunt of the impact.<\/p>\n
Those who are working to a \u00a3200 budget may be tempted by what it offers for the price \u2013 just don\u2019t expect the same results or the level of build quality you\u2019ll get from
\nspending more on one of the alternatives.<\/p>\n
SCORE: 2.5 out of 5<\/h2>\n
\nNikon Coolpix AW130<\/h2>\n\nNikon Coolpix AW130 at a glance:<\/h2>\n\n- Wide zoom range<\/li>\n
- Altimeter and depth gauge for diving<\/li>\n
- Supports USB charging<\/li>\n
- Unable to match TG-5 focus speeds<\/li>\n
- Sensor: 16MP<\/li>\n
- Sensor size: 1\/2.3in<\/li>\n
- Lens: 5x optical (24-120mm) f\/2.8-4.9<\/li>\n
- ISO: 125-6400<\/li>\n
- Display: 3in, 921k-dot<\/li>\n
- Video: Full HD (1920×1080)<\/li>\n
- Dimensions: 110.4x66x26.8mm<\/li>\n
- Price: \u00a3240<\/li>\n
- Website: www.nikon.co.uk<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\nThe Nikon AW130 is a couple of years old, and although it has been superseded by the new Coolpix W300, we\u2019re no closer to seeing one in the flesh. Available in black, red, yellow and blue, as well as a more unusual camouflage finish, the AW130 features a 16MP CMOS sensor and 5x optical zoom covering a 24-120mm range.<\/p>\n
Cold-resistant to -10 \u00b0C, shockproof from 2m and usable at depths down to 30m underwater, it boasts an altimeter and depth gauge, and can shoot continuously at up to 7fps. The 3in, 921k-dot screen has the highest resolution of the four on test and displays a very crisp image. Lens shift VR and Electronic VR team up together to effectively compensate for camera shake, and the sensitivity can be manually set anywhere between ISO 125- 6400. The battery door at the side locks securely like the XP120\u2019s and behind it you\u2019ll find a USB port that facilitates charging on the go so you don\u2019t run out.<\/p>\n\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\tDetail starts to get heavily affected by noise beyond ISO 800<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n
There\u2019s no shortage of buttons at the rear and the zoom is operated by your thumb as opposed to your index finger. The only issue is that the buttons are on the small side, so those with larger fingers are likely to find it fiddly to use. The overall build and finish meets the high standard we have come to expect from Nikon.<\/p>\n
Detail resolved from the 1\/2.3in sensor is good, with 2,400 l\/ph being resolved at its lowest ISO setting. Detail drops off beyond ISO 400, and ISO 800 is the upper limit we\u2019d be prepared to push to on a regular basis.<\/p>\n\t\t
\n
Despite feeling more plasticky than the other three cameras, the XP120 is waterproof to a depth of 20m, can withstand a drop from 1.75m and can operate in temperatures as low as -10\u00b0C. Behind its 5x optical zoom (28-140mm) is a 16.4MP back-illuminated CMOS sensor. This permits shooting across an ISO 100-6400 range. Like its rivals it provides \u00b12EV exposure compensation and there\u2019s Wi-Fi to link it to any mobile devices using Fujifilm\u2019s Camera Remote app.<\/p>\n
In addition to its rugged credentials, it has optical image stabilisation, shoots continuously at 10fps for a maximum of 10 frames at full resolution, and supports face detection as well as full HD (1920×1080) video. At the rear, you get a 3in, 920k-dot display, but annoyingly it doesn\u2019t rotate images in playback mode when the camera is tilted, in the way that the D30 and TG-5 do. The double-lock mechanism at the side prevents the battery compartment from being accidentally opened and below the SD card slot there\u2019s an interface that supports USB charging.<\/p>\n\t\t
\t\t\tThe XP120 struggles to resolve the same level of details as its closest rivals<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n
The camera offers little in terms of a rubberised grip, so it does get rather slippery to hold when your hands get wet. The zoom buttons protrude, making them easy to operate with your thumb and the camera can be operated single-handedly without difficulty. The menu looks somewhat dated compared to Fujifilm\u2019s mirrorless cameras, but thankfully it\u2019s easy enough to navigate.<\/p>\n
The sensor doesn\u2019t resolve the same level of detail as its rivals. You\u2019ll want to use it below ISO 400 whenever possible and our outdoor testing revealed that it has a tendency to underexpose a little in high-contrast conditions.<\/p>\n\t\t
\t\t\tThe XP120’s auto white balance system doesn’t render colour as accurately as its rivals underwater<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n
Images taken in its underwater mode have a cool feel and its autofocus didn\u2019t lock on to our colour chart as fast as the TG-5. After being smashed out of the ice, it powered up after 2 minutes 40 seconds. The shutter button was frozen solid but after 3 minutes 11 seconds it became fully operational again. It passed the drop test with only a small mark on the corner of the body where it took the brunt of the impact.<\/p>\n
Those who are working to a \u00a3200 budget may be tempted by what it offers for the price \u2013 just don\u2019t expect the same results or the level of build quality you\u2019ll get from
\nspending more on one of the alternatives.<\/p>\n
SCORE: 2.5 out of 5<\/h2>\n
\nNikon Coolpix AW130<\/h2>\n\nNikon Coolpix AW130 at a glance:<\/h2>\n\n- Wide zoom range<\/li>\n
- Altimeter and depth gauge for diving<\/li>\n
- Supports USB charging<\/li>\n
- Unable to match TG-5 focus speeds<\/li>\n
- Sensor: 16MP<\/li>\n
- Sensor size: 1\/2.3in<\/li>\n
- Lens: 5x optical (24-120mm) f\/2.8-4.9<\/li>\n
- ISO: 125-6400<\/li>\n
- Display: 3in, 921k-dot<\/li>\n
- Video: Full HD (1920×1080)<\/li>\n
- Dimensions: 110.4x66x26.8mm<\/li>\n
- Price: \u00a3240<\/li>\n
- Website: www.nikon.co.uk<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\nThe Nikon AW130 is a couple of years old, and although it has been superseded by the new Coolpix W300, we\u2019re no closer to seeing one in the flesh. Available in black, red, yellow and blue, as well as a more unusual camouflage finish, the AW130 features a 16MP CMOS sensor and 5x optical zoom covering a 24-120mm range.<\/p>\n
Cold-resistant to -10 \u00b0C, shockproof from 2m and usable at depths down to 30m underwater, it boasts an altimeter and depth gauge, and can shoot continuously at up to 7fps. The 3in, 921k-dot screen has the highest resolution of the four on test and displays a very crisp image. Lens shift VR and Electronic VR team up together to effectively compensate for camera shake, and the sensitivity can be manually set anywhere between ISO 125- 6400. The battery door at the side locks securely like the XP120\u2019s and behind it you\u2019ll find a USB port that facilitates charging on the go so you don\u2019t run out.<\/p>\n\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\tDetail starts to get heavily affected by noise beyond ISO 800<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n
There\u2019s no shortage of buttons at the rear and the zoom is operated by your thumb as opposed to your index finger. The only issue is that the buttons are on the small side, so those with larger fingers are likely to find it fiddly to use. The overall build and finish meets the high standard we have come to expect from Nikon.<\/p>\n
Detail resolved from the 1\/2.3in sensor is good, with 2,400 l\/ph being resolved at its lowest ISO setting. Detail drops off beyond ISO 400, and ISO 800 is the upper limit we\u2019d be prepared to push to on a regular basis.<\/p>\n\t\t
\nNikon Coolpix AW130 at a glance:<\/h2>\n\n- Wide zoom range<\/li>\n
- Altimeter and depth gauge for diving<\/li>\n
- Supports USB charging<\/li>\n
- Unable to match TG-5 focus speeds<\/li>\n
- Sensor: 16MP<\/li>\n
- Sensor size: 1\/2.3in<\/li>\n
- Lens: 5x optical (24-120mm) f\/2.8-4.9<\/li>\n
- ISO: 125-6400<\/li>\n
- Display: 3in, 921k-dot<\/li>\n
- Video: Full HD (1920×1080)<\/li>\n
- Dimensions: 110.4x66x26.8mm<\/li>\n
- Price: \u00a3240<\/li>\n
- Website: www.nikon.co.uk<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\nThe Nikon AW130 is a couple of years old, and although it has been superseded by the new Coolpix W300, we\u2019re no closer to seeing one in the flesh. Available in black, red, yellow and blue, as well as a more unusual camouflage finish, the AW130 features a 16MP CMOS sensor and 5x optical zoom covering a 24-120mm range.<\/p>\n
Cold-resistant to -10 \u00b0C, shockproof from 2m and usable at depths down to 30m underwater, it boasts an altimeter and depth gauge, and can shoot continuously at up to 7fps. The 3in, 921k-dot screen has the highest resolution of the four on test and displays a very crisp image. Lens shift VR and Electronic VR team up together to effectively compensate for camera shake, and the sensitivity can be manually set anywhere between ISO 125- 6400. The battery door at the side locks securely like the XP120\u2019s and behind it you\u2019ll find a USB port that facilitates charging on the go so you don\u2019t run out.<\/p>\n\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\tDetail starts to get heavily affected by noise beyond ISO 800<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n
There\u2019s no shortage of buttons at the rear and the zoom is operated by your thumb as opposed to your index finger. The only issue is that the buttons are on the small side, so those with larger fingers are likely to find it fiddly to use. The overall build and finish meets the high standard we have come to expect from Nikon.<\/p>\n
Detail resolved from the 1\/2.3in sensor is good, with 2,400 l\/ph being resolved at its lowest ISO setting. Detail drops off beyond ISO 400, and ISO 800 is the upper limit we\u2019d be prepared to push to on a regular basis.<\/p>\n\t\t
\n
The Nikon AW130 is a couple of years old, and although it has been superseded by the new Coolpix W300, we\u2019re no closer to seeing one in the flesh. Available in black, red, yellow and blue, as well as a more unusual camouflage finish, the AW130 features a 16MP CMOS sensor and 5x optical zoom covering a 24-120mm range.<\/p>\n
Cold-resistant to -10 \u00b0C, shockproof from 2m and usable at depths down to 30m underwater, it boasts an altimeter and depth gauge, and can shoot continuously at up to 7fps. The 3in, 921k-dot screen has the highest resolution of the four on test and displays a very crisp image. Lens shift VR and Electronic VR team up together to effectively compensate for camera shake, and the sensitivity can be manually set anywhere between ISO 125- 6400. The battery door at the side locks securely like the XP120\u2019s and behind it you\u2019ll find a USB port that facilitates charging on the go so you don\u2019t run out.<\/p>\n\t\t
\t\t\tDetail starts to get heavily affected by noise beyond ISO 800<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n
There\u2019s no shortage of buttons at the rear and the zoom is operated by your thumb as opposed to your index finger. The only issue is that the buttons are on the small side, so those with larger fingers are likely to find it fiddly to use. The overall build and finish meets the high standard we have come to expect from Nikon.<\/p>\n
Detail resolved from the 1\/2.3in sensor is good, with 2,400 l\/ph being resolved at its lowest ISO setting. Detail drops off beyond ISO 400, and ISO 800 is the upper limit we\u2019d be prepared to push to on a regular basis.<\/p>\n\t\t
![\"Best](\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/Nikon-Coolpix-AW130-underwater-results.jpg\")
\t\t\t![\"Best](\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/Olympus-Tough-TG-5.jpg\")
\n![\"Best](\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/Olympus-Tough-TG-5-detail.jpg\")
\t\t\t![\"Best](\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/Olympus-Tough-TG-5-underwater-results.jpg\")
\t\t\t![\"Best](\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/Tough-compacts-in-ice.jpg\")
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