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| Nikon CoolPix 880 |
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Hardware Reviews November 2000 • Vol.3 Issue 11 |
Nikon CoolPix 880 | ||
 The three-megapixel CoolPix 880 digital camera from Nikon isn't perfect-at $680, it isn't cheap. However, the array of advanced features it possesses and the strikingly good images it captures are among the best you'll find. In short, consumer digital cameras don't get much better. Nikon built the CoolPix 880 by stuffing the best qualities of its excellent CoolPix 990 into a smaller body that abandons the swivel lens design prevalent in previous CoolPix models. Instead, the camera has an ultracompact, palm-sized shape that is almost too small to brace with two hands. However, the diminutive size doesn't compromise on power or versatility. The camera has the features advanced users crave, yet it is still easy enough for novices to take images at resolutions of 2,048 x 1,536 pixels, 1,024 x 768 pixels, and 640 x 480 pixels. Our shots featured incredibly crisp and clear focus with excellent color balance and definition. Overall, we found little to fault except a slight darkness in images taken under fluorescent lighting at default settings. At the heart of the camera is a threaded Zoom-Nikkor lens with 2.5X optical zoom and 4X digital zoom. Enhancing the lens are considerable features, including a five-area multiple-autofocus ability; the Best Shot Selector, which takes consecutive shots and then lets you select the best one; 40-second QuickTime movie mode; continuous and ultra high-speed shooting modes; four metering settings; manual focus; multiple ISO settings; USB connectivity; Program, Aperture Priority, and Manual modes; and a Custom Setting Mode so you can set and save personalized settings. There also is a new Scene function in which focus, exposure, white balance, and other settings are automatically adjusted for 11 different settings, including Portrait, Party/Indoor, Sunset, Fireworks, Back Light, and Night Landscape. The new Quick Review function is another excellent touch that lets you press a button to review a shot just taken while simultaneously framing the next shot. Most models require switching between Play and Review modes. Unfortunately, accessing the multitude of functions can be a chore because the menus are extensive and probably will intimidate newer users. However, a four-way navigational button and mode dial help maneuver the text-driven menus. More disappointing is Nikon's decision to make a rechargeable lithium-ion battery and A/C adapter options that will cost you about $100. In addition, the included 8MB CompactFlash card is somewhat small, the camera can't record sound, and there isn't a jack for an external flash unit. Those are minor complaints in the face of what this camera is capable of. To date, we've seen just three models that match the CoolPix 880 in terms of image quality, manual control, and advanced features. by Blaine Flamig
$680 Nikon (800) 526-4566 (516) 547-4200 http://www.nikonusa.com
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