Nikon COOLPIX 2100 Digital Camera [2MP 3xOptical]

Small enough to fit comfortably in the hand, the Nikon Coolpix 2100 has gone through a detailed moulding experience to make sure everything is in the right place. The grip on the front gives enough to hold with one hand, while the indent on the rear is just in the right place for your thumb to access the zoom controls and the review button without too much effort. The back also sports a slightly larger 1.6" LCD screen, ample enough to review any images taken or the current shot.

Power comes from a CR-V3 Lithium battery and Nikon has provided the charger in the box for you--a nice touch. Pictures are saved on CompactFlash and an 8 MB card comes in the box. Images can be transferred to a PC via USB or to the TV.

The camera offers 2 million pixels producing images up to A4 (210 x 297 mm) images depending on settings. With a 3x optical and 4x digital zoom lens just like the 3100, the camera offers the equivalent of 36-108mm in a 35 mm camera with an f range of F2.8-F4.9.

When it comes to pre-programmed options though the Nikon Coolpix 2100 wins hands down, apart from the basic portrait, landscape, sports and night settings you can also set the picture via the scene option, which allows you to break down things further. Here you can chose from a range of options including party/indoor, dusk/dawn, close-up and museum. Add to this four flash modes and seven white balance modes, and you've got a camera with plenty of options.

The continuous shooting mode offers the chance to do just that and the camera also has four movie modes for the avid movie maker; however, with the ability to only record 15 seconds of movie you shouldn't expect too much.

Picture quality was fairly good and for a two-megapixel camera the detail is what you would expect. This camera's strength is in its capture of skin tones and the quality is very good--that said, it also copes well with greens and buildings.

Overall this camera is a good starter at the entry level of digital imaging. It may be more expensive than other entry-level cameras but you do get a charger included in the box. It is also smaller than its peers and this combined with its image quality makes this is an ideal solution if you are out and about and want a camera that fits in your pocket. --Jason Denwood

Manufacturer's Description
A compact, lightweight digital still camera with 2.0 effective megapixels and a powerful 3x zoom lens, the COOLPIX 2100 is an affordable, friendly and versatile model, even for those who are using a digital camera for the first time. The COOLPIX 2100 is ideal for people who want an easy-to-use digital still camera that offers great image quality, and who are looking to get more fun out of digital photography. The camera's compact body fits easily in a pocket for carry-anywhere portability.

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• Electronics & Photo > Photography > Digital Cameras > Up to 3.9 Megapixel