Nikon has been one of the prominent players when it comes to cameras. If you are looking for the fixed lens cameras from the manufacturer, Nikon Coolpix P1000 vs. Nikon Coolpix P900 have been the two best models that have been quite popular in the genre. Launched three years apart, how do these two siblings perform against each other? We will check out the features, specifications, and differences between the two capable models from the manufacturer.
What is a Fixed Lens Camera?
Well, the definition should be quite evident from the name of the genre itself. The fixed lens cameras are the ones that do look almost like a DSLR. The only major differentiating factor between a fixed lens camera and a DSLR should be the lack of support for the interchangeable lenses on the former.
By description, a fixed lens camera is the one that does not use interchangeable lenses. From that perspective, the definition can range to include large zoom cameras to the point and shoot models that we have used in the past. In fact, the smartphone camera too can be one of the best fixed-lens cameras for that matter.
However, in the technical language of photography, a fixed lens camera is the one that has a large zoom lens and looks like the DSLRs. The term is ides mainly to let you know the difference between a DSLR and the fixed large zoom lens cameras.
Nikon Coolpix P1000 vs. Nikon Coolpix P900 – The Comparison
Having understood what a fixed lens camera is and how it differs from the DSLRs, let us now check how the Nikon Coolpix P1000 and Nikon Coolpix P900 compare with each other. We will make a comparison based on a few critical features for a clear understanding.
Physical Features
| Features/ Particulars | Nikon Coolpix P900
|
Nikon Coolpix P1000
|
| Physical Dimensions | 140 x 103 x 137 mm | 146 x 119 x 181 mm |
| Weight | 899 grams | 1415 grams |
By comparison, both Coolpix P1000 and Coolpix P900 do seem to have the same compact structure and do not differ much. However, weight can be a differentiating factor considerably. Given the fact that portability can be a huge factor, the Coolpix P900 offers you a little lighter option.
It should be noted that neither of the two cameras comes with any weather sealing. You need to take care while handling them in severe weather conditions.
Sensor Comparison
| Features/ Particulars | Nikon Coolpix P900
|
Nikon Coolpix P1000
|
| Sensor Type | CMOS | CMOS |
| Sensor Size | 1/2.3” | 1/2.3” |
| Sensor Resolution | 4608 x 3456 | 4608 x 3456 |
The sensor features for both the cameras are completely identical in almost all respects. Even the megapixel count remains same at 16 MP on both of them. Given the fact that the recent sensors have been found to be more developed than the older ones, we would prefer opting for the Coolpix P1000.
Lens Comparison
| Features/ Particulars | Nikon Coolpix P900
|
Nikon Coolpix P1000
|
| Wide Coverage | 24 mm | 24 mm |
| Telezoom | 2000 mm | 3000 mm |
| Max aperture at Tele-zoom | F 6.5 | F 8.0 |
| Max Wide aperture | F 2.80 | F 2.80 |
As you can easily find out the lens capabilities of the Coolpix P1000, tend to be considerably higher in comparison to the Coolpix P900. The Tele-zoom capabilities and the maximum aperture are the two features that would go in favor of the Coolpix P1000.
Other Features
Apart from the lens and the sensor information that we discussed in detail above, here are the tabulated comparisons between the two cameras for the rest of the features. This will help us get a clear picture of the capabilities of either of the products.
| Features/ Particulars | Nikon Coolpix P900
|
Nikon Coolpix P1000
|
| Optical Zoom | 83 X | 123 X |
| Digital Zoom | Yes, available – 133X | Yes, available – 250X |
| ISO Sensitivity | 100 to 6400 | 100 to 6400 |
| Normal focal range | 50 cm | 30.48 cm |
| Macro Focal range | 1 cm | 1 cm |
| Focal length | 24 to 2000 mm | 24 to 3000 mm |
| Max aperture | F2.8 – f8.0 | F2.8 – f6.5 |
| Max Shutter speed | 1/4000 sec | 1/4000 sec
1/8000 sec for the movie mode |
| Built-in Flash | Yes | Yes |
| Microphone support | No | Yes |
| Screen | 3”- 921,000 dots | 3.2”- 921,000 dots |
| Screen articulation | Yes, swivel | Yes, swivel |
| Max video resolution | 3840×2160 at 25p and 30p | 1920×1080 at 60p and 30p |
| Storage type | SD, SDHC and SDXC | SD, SDHC and SDXC |
| HDMI connectivity | Yes | Yes |
| Wireless Connectivity | Yes- Bluetooth and WiFi | Yes – Bluetooth and WiFi |
| Battery Life | 360 shots per charge | 250 shots per charge |
Except for the battery life, the Coolpix P1000 takes the lead in almost all the aspects to be the preferred camera among the two options.
Features that would make the Coolpix P1000 a good option
Well, the elements that would make Coolpix P1000 can be summed up as
- It offers you a better video performance. You can capture 4K videos at 30p as compared to full HD at 60p.
- Larger screen at 3.2 inches as opposed to the 3 inches screen
- Better telephoto reach
- Support for the RAW format – a delight for the professional photographers
- The microphone support offers you a better audio recording
- Higher optical zoom at 123 X compared to 83 X.
Features That Go in Favour of the Coolpix P900
Not to be left behind, the P900 has a few features in its favor. A few of them can be summarised as
- It is more compact than the Coolpix P1000
- The camera is comparatively lighter than the P1000
- It provides you with better battery life than the P1000. You will have access to 360 shots per charge in comparison to the 250 shots on the P1000.
- NFC connectivity available on the P900 can be an added advantage.
The Concluding Thoughts
The decision is clear if you have closely followed the comparison chart outlined above. The Coolpix P1000 provides you with excellent functionality and features that outweigh a few feature advantages offered by the Coolpix P900. In essence, if you are looking for a compact camera with affordable pricing, you can go for the Coolpix P900, else the Coolpix P1000 should be your ideal choice.