The Nikon Coolpix L340 is a low-cost superzoom bridge-style camera that updates the L330. Its main selling point is its 28x optical zoom which gives a 35mm-equivalent focal range of 22.5-630mm. Images are captured on a 20.2MP sensor and power comes from four AA batteries. The Nikon Coolpix L340 is available now for around £240. 

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Nikon Coolpix L340 Features

There’s not a lot new to the Coolpix L340. In fact, the only notable difference between it and the old L330 is the marginally increased zoom range. Where the old camera had a 26x optic, the new model gets 28x optical zoom, giving a 35mm-equivelent focal range of 22.5-630mm. Nikon has equipped the lens with lens-shift vibration reduction to help tame the effects of camera shake.

Externally the L340 is identical to the L330, and it also shares the same 20.2MP CCD sensor that’s capable of a maximum sensitivity of just ISO1600. HD 1280x720 video recording is also available, though given the increased prevalence of 4K video, it’s a pity the L340 can’t at least capture at 1080p resolution.

As this is a budget-friendly camera, you don’t get many fun features. Apart from six special effects filters and a scene-detecting automatic mode, the only other stand-out feature is Nikon’s Smart Portrait mode that’ll flatter images of friends and family by softening skin and warning you if someone blinks.

Key Features

• 20.2 megapixel 1/2.3-inch CCD sensor
• ISO80 to ISO1600
• 28x optical zoom lens, 22.5-630mm equivalent, f/3.1-5.9
• Lens-shift Vibration Reduction
• 3.0-inch LCD screen, 460,000-dots
• HD 720p video recording
• Powered by AA batteries

Nikon Coolpix L340 Handling

The L340 measures 111.1 x 76.3 x 83.3 mm (4.4 x 3.1 x 3.3 in.) and is relatively compact for this style of camera. A ready-to-shoot weight of 430g is also reasonable considering the L340 is powered by four AA batteries.

The chunky design, large rubberised hand grip and rear thumb rest make the camera nice and easy to hang on to, although those with larger fingers may find the gap between the handgrip and lens barrel slightly too narrow for comfort.

Whilst the L340 may be styled like a bridge camera, its range of controls has much more in common with a basic point-and-shoot compact snapper. Buttons are restricted to essential controls for the self-timer, scene modes, macro mode, video recording and flash mode. The only nod towards any degree of manual control is the exposure compensation button which enables up to +/-2 stops of exposure adjustment. Even the zoom ring around the shutter release is very basic with only one available speed, meaning precise focal length adjustments can be difficult.

A 3-inch LCD screen gives a satisfactory viewing experience with good colour reproduction and brightness. Whilst the 460k-dot resolution is far from pin-sharp, it’s the monitor’s limited viewing angles which are more problematic, making it tough to accurately judge exposure and contrast.

The L340 uses Nikon’s tried and tested white on grey with yellow highlights menu design. It doesn’t look particularly special, but it is basic, functional and easy to navigate, especially given how few menu options are actually available.

Battery life - There have to be some compromises to produce the L340 for such a low price, so it doesn’t include a rechargeable battery pack. If don’t fancy shelling out on standard alkaline batteries for the life of the camera, you’ll need to factor the extra cost of buying your own rechargeable batteries and a charger.

But even with 4 AA alkaline batteries on board, you do get a very healthy 370-shot run time. Slot in some premium lithium cells and this can be upped to an incredible 960 shots.

Speed - We took a number of shots to test the camera's responsiveness, from switch on to first photo, shot to shot, focusing speed etc. We take a number of shots and then use the average to ensure accurate and consistent tests, making it easy to compare with other cameras.