Nikon Coolpix S02 Hands-On Preview

When we first reviewed the Nikon Coolpix S01, it was difficult to show just how small this camera was without something next to it to give a sense of scale. With the new Nikon Coolpix S02 the same applies, as the camera is still ultra compact, yet features a number of improvements that should make this camera more appealing, including a new 13 megapixel CMOS sensor, and full HD video recording.
 

Nikon Coolpix S02 Features

The Nikon Coolpix S02 is designed to be small enough that you can take it anywhere, while still being able to get good photos, even in low-light conditions thanks to the real xenon flash built in to the camera. The S02 features a new 13 megapixel CMOS sensor, compared to the 10 megapixel CCD sensor on the predecessor, this lets the new model record full HD video. 

The touch screen has been updated, with the new camera now featuring a 2.7inch screen, compared to the 2.5inch screen on the S01. It's also been upgraded with an HDMI out in addition to the AV out, although as you'll probably notice when looking at the camera, it does not feature a tripod socket. A new Night landscape mode combines four rapidly taken shots for better night shots.
 

Key Features

• 13 megapixel CMOS sensor
• 3x optical zoom lens
• 2.7inch touch-screen
• 7.3GB internal memory
• Xenon flash
• Full HD video recording
• Night landscape mode
• 100g weight

Nikon Coolpix S02 Handling

The touch screen on the camera felt responsive, easy to use, and seemed to be quicker than the S01. The camera feels well built despite the small size, and features a stylish metal finish in pink, blue, white and mirror effect. As the rechargeable lithium-ion battery and memory are built in to the camera you don't need to worry about losing a battery or a memory card, however it also means you can't replace the battery or upgrade the memory. 

The Nikon Coolpix S02 has an RRP of £119, which is noticeably less than the Nikon Coolpix S01 was when first released, however, it will be interesting to see whether this price is tempting enough for people to purchase it. Nikon suggest it could be an ideal Christmas present, or perhaps an ideal camera for the Christmas parties? We think that having full HD video recording in such an ultra compact camera could be one of the more interesting uses for it, as it should fit in even the most cramped of locations. 

Additional hands-on photos of the Nikon Coolpix S02 can be found below, simply click the images to view larger versions. We will be reviewing the Nikon Coolpix S02 as soon as it is available, and it will be interesting to see what difference the new sensor makes in this ultra compact camera. 

Nikon COOLPIX S02 Hands-On Photos of Equipment

Nikon COOLPIX S02 Specifications

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