Here’s a comparison of Nikon P310 vs Canon S100 will help you decide which one is the best for you.

Features: Nikon P310 vs Canon S100

Nikon P310 is a 16MP camera with BSI CMOS sensor, whereas Canon S100 has a 12MP camera with CMOS sensor. If the LCD screen size is also a determining factor for you, then both these cameras have the same LCD screen size of 3 inches.

The S100 is slightly smaller in size compared to the P310 though both are pocket size cameras. Both these camera uses lithium ion battery. Storage for both these cameras allows SD memory card, SDXC memory card and SDHC memory card. Both Nikon P310 and Canon S100 have built in flash, with red-eye reduction ability.

Performance: Nikon P310 vs Canon S100

Owing to its CMOS sensor, the Nikon P310 allows you to take sharp images, even when shooting in challenging light condition, or at night. To make sure that you take perfect pictures, this camera has the anti-shake function which enables the shutter speeds to be slowed down to four stops. Coupled with the fast F1.8 lens, you could take sharp picture even in candle light.

With the Canon S100 too you can take perfect images, as it also has the CMOS sensor. It has a higher true resolution by which you can get perfect details in your photos. S100 powers up really fast and you are ready to take pictures instantly. It has lesser possibilities for camera-shake due to its faster shutter speed.

Handling: Nikon P310 vs Canon S100

Nikon P310 can best be handled by experienced users, who can take advantage of its manual shooting modes. The menu navigation is made easier owing to its control dial on the top. However there are many options in the menu which can make things difficult for those using it for the first time.

Canon S100 has all-inclusive manual options for the experienced photographers, while the causal shooters can make use of its automatic modes for convenience. It is perfect for both who want to use it for learning to take great pictures, and also for those who are already experts.

Price: Nikon P310 vs Canon S100

Recently, the Nikon P310 price has dropped signficantly to about $270. The Canon S100 price is more expensive, about $370 despite being an older model than the Nikon P310.

So, which is a better choice?

I like the smaller and thinner form factor of the Canon S100; the option to output RAW format is another plus point. However, I am a sucker for faster lens. Nikon P310′s F1.8 lens and cheaper price are the deciding factors for me to pick it as my choice.

The following comparison is based on research from the internet and not actual user’s experience. If you are looking for a more technical comparison, visit www.ephotozine.com

Features: Fuji X10 vs Canon S100

Both Canon S100 and Fujifilm X10 have 12MP resolution sensor. However, the X10′s 2/3″ sensor is larger than S100′s 1/1.7″ sensor.

Fuji X10 has a 4x optical zoom lens and Canon S100 has a 5x optical zoom lens. Both these cameras have a full HD video mode with stereo sound. The X10 has an optical viewfinder that has dioptre correction, and it also has a flash hot shoe, both of which are not present in the S100. Both the cameras have RAW manual control and optical image stabilization.

Performance: Fuji X10 vs Canon S100

Canon S100 has a better flash than X10, and to compensate, it relies on a boost in its ISO. It allows you to take a very natural picture, but the photo will not be as bright as is offered by Canon. Both the cameras have the option to expand the dynamic range, and S100 has 3-shot HDR and iContrast options. The X10 offers EXR Dynamic Range mode, which owing to the sensor design, the result image is to reduced 6 megapixels resolution.

The S100′s zoom lens extend from 24-120mm as compared to the X10′s short 28-112mm zoom. However, the X10 lens is F2.0 to F2.8 which means it could pull in a lot more light than the S100′s F2.0 to F5.9. The X10 offers you a better macro performance at 1cm, so you can get really close to the subject. The S100′s closest macro is 3cm.

Handling: Fuji X10 vs Canon S100

Fuji X10 has almost double the number of control and external button present in Canon S100, and this allows you to access the controls easily. Moreover you can set options even when your camera is off. S100 does not have too many buttons, which means, to access the settings, you will need to use the screen of the camera. X10, on the other hand, has dials and external buttons using which you can control the camera, and will not have to spend too much time on the menu. As per the CIPA standard S100 will allow you 200 shots, and if you use the GPS it will get reduced even further. X10 as per the CIPA standard will offer 270 shots and if the LCD is turned off then you can expect 560 shots.

Price: Fuji X10 vs Canon S100

Both Fuji X10 and Canon S100 are high-end compact targeting prosumers. Fuji X10 price is about $599 compared to Canon S100 price which is signicantly lesser at $379.

Which One to Buy?

Both the cameras have great features, offers great image quality, and are amongst the best serious compact cameras. The Canon S100 costs less than the Fuji X10, but if you use the GPS in S100 you will have to spend some of the saved money in getting additional battery. I would rather spend a bit more, get Fuji X10, and enjoy its physicals control, speed, brighter lens and other amazing features.

→ Click here to see the latest Panasonic ZS20/TZ30 price

While most digital camera users prefer a smaller and lightweight frame that they can simply point and shoot images with, there are many who also prefer the ability to zoom in up close to where the action is or use the camera in. The result is an interesting mix of power and performance all packed into a small frame. Here’s a short review on three of the best-selling 14MP cameras.

Panasonic ZS20/TZ30

The Panasonic Lumix ZS20 (known Panasonic TZ30 in Europe and Asia) is essentially a superzoom 14MP camera that comes with 20x optical zoom – 24mm to 480mm in a 35mm format equivalent. It is currently the world’s thinnest compact camera with 20x optical zoom. It has an amazing 1.1″ slim body that makes it a stunningly ultra thin camera.

Panasonic is known for its Venus Image processing engines and the ZS20 comes with an amazing 10 fps performance at continuous shooting modes. It also shoots full HD movies at 60 frames in AVCHD format.

Canon SX150 IS

→ Click here to see the latest Canon SX150 IS price

The Canon Powershot SX150 is a 14MP digital camera with a 12x optical zoom (equivalent to 28–336mm in 35mm format), intelligent image stabilization and a host of other features makes the Canon PowerShot SX150 IS a formidable opponent to beat.

In fact, Canon has gone to some distances to make this model a preferred choice among compact camera crowd. Several shooting modes make composing the shot easier for first time users. The smart auto mode can detect up to 32 different scenes and then apply the correct ISO, exposure and shutter speeds to the shot.

The Canon SX150 IS even allows you to get into the program or manual mode and set your preferred shutter priority, aperture priority and other settings for more control over the shot. It shoots videos in H.264 formats at 720p with stereo sound recorded through the built-in microphones. Because it uses the AA alkaline batteries, you can get a fresh set of batteries virtual everywhere and do not nee to lug along the charger.

Olympus TG-320

→ Click here to see the latest Olympus TG-320 price

The Olympus TG-320 is a rugged camera beach goers, jungle trekkers and mountain climbers. It has a 3.6x optical zoom equivalent to 28–102mm on a 35mm format. The large 2.7 LCD screen is 230k dots resolution and ISO sensitivity is up to 1600. However, the overall performance of this 14MP waterproof camera in low light shooting or fast action seems a little bit noisy.

The TG-320 is one of the lightest waterproof cameras, so if you do happen to drop the camera in water, the electronics will not die on you. In fact the camera is shockproof and even freeze proof to -10°C giving you shooting opportunities in some of the harshest natural environments.

You can record HD videos in MPEG4 or H.264 formats at 720p and together with the sensor-shift image stabilization system, it captures sharp picture even if your hands are moving. The TG-320 is one of the sturdiest and best performing travel cameras ever.

Overall Thoughts

Each of the above three 14 MP cameras have their own USPs and it is quite difficult to single out one as the best buy. However if you consider actual shooting options available, that including both video and stills, and the price factor then the Canon PowerShot SX150 IS is the one.

Looking for a cheap waterproof camera? Check out the 14MP Finepix XP30.

However, the Nikon V1 comes a tad lower than the Sony NEX-5N as the former is attractive for its high caliber performance when compared to the latter.

Features: Nikon V1 vs Sony NEX-5N

The Sony NEX-5N is less noisy than the Nikon V1 and this is a huge advantage when you want to shoot wildlife and in the night. The Sony NEX-5N comes equipped with a wide range of features which when compared to the Nikon V1 on a feature-by-feature basis score over its rival. For instance, the larger sensor and the faster autofocus that Sony NEX-5N has scores better than the same features in the Nikon V1 and when one takes into account the ability to record high speed movies, the Sony model scores over the Nikon one. Of course, the fact that the Nikon model compares favorably in other aspects means that the playing field is leveled.

Performance: Nikon V1 vs Sony NEX-5N

When compared, the performance of the Sony NEX-5N trumps the Nikon V1 on many counts and hence it is a safer buy. The high-resolution pictures that you get from the Sony NEX-5N are a photographer’s delight and hence make for a compelling reason to own one. Of course, the Nikon V1 shoots much faster pictures and so is good for shooting moving targets.

Handling: Nikon V1 vs Sony NEX-5N

When one compares these two mirrorless camera in terms of handling, both need some careful handling as they are not as sturdy as a DSLR. Hence, there is little to distinguish between the two in this respect.

Price: Nikon V1 vs Sony NEX-5N

Both the Nikon V1 vs Sony NEX-5N are competitively priced. You pay more for the Nikon V1 (price for the white color model is about $897) and get a better discount for the slightly older NEX-5N at $699. So, the point to note is that if you are going for a camera that is cheaper, you can choose either.

Nikon V1 vs Sony NEX-5N Overall Thoughts

My preference among these two models would be the Sony NEX-5N for its sleek and smooth photography experience. There are no creases in the way the camera works and this makes for a pleasant and pleasurable experience. Strictly speaking there is little to distinguish between the Nikon V1 vs Sony NEX-5N and so one must go by personal preferences like how much pleasure one gets from each.

The Panasonic GX1 is meant for those who want to make the transition to a DSLR but not want the size and bulk. On the other hand, the Olympus EP3 is specially designed for advanced users who know the nuances of photography. In other words the GX1 is very much for the crossover crowd whereas the EP3 is for those who have already made it.

Features: GX1 vs EP3

The Panasonic GX1 is robust and built to last. You can lug it around anywhere and everywhere and in particular, wildlife photography and wilderness shoots are its specialty. The Olympus EP3 is also sturdy but has very nice color rendering that is loved by many Olympus fans.

For both the GX1 and the EP3, capturing still life and motion is easy and this adds to the lure of both the models. The differentiating factor would be the easy adaptability that is provided by the GX1 with its flexible controls and settings.

Performance: GX1 vs EP3

As mentioned above, both cameras deliver outstanding results like a DSLR in terms of image quality. Many photographers are concerned about the autofocus speed which has been improve in both GX1 and EP3. Based on the specifications, the GX1 does seem to have an edge over EP3 in terms of AF speed. However, under normal use, you proabably won’t feel the millisecond difference between the 2 cameras.

Panasonic GX1 AF Speed

Another point of comparison will be the image quality at high ISO. According to stevehuffphoto.com ISO test, the GX1 offered better picture quality than the EP3 at ISO 6400.

Handling: GX1 vs EP3

The GX1 is both sturdy and adaptable to conditions whereas the EP3 might need some protection in outdoor photography. However, the EP3 has an additional dial which makes it quicker when changing setting. I find it easier to grip the GX1 than the EP3, however, if you have bigger hands and prefer the Olympus then you can remove the standard grip and replace wth the larger grip, MCG-2.

Price: GX1 vs EP3

The best things in the world come at a price – both the Panasonic GX1 and Olympus EP3 come at a hefty tag depending on the specifics of the model and the additional add-ons that you want. The GX1 with the 14-42mm kit lens is priced at $779 versus EP2 with the 14-42mm II R kit lens at $899. However, if you wanted the X VARIO PZ 14-42mm/f3.5-5.6 powered zoom lens to go with the GX1 then it’ll cost you $949 which is a lot more costly than the Olympus EP3.

You may be interested to read our price comparison review on:
Olympus EP3 vs Panasonic GX1 vs Sony NEX-5N Price

Panasonic GX1 or Olympus EP3 Overall Thoughts

If you would ask me which one of the GX1 vs EP3 would I choose; my biased opinion will be the Panasonic GX1 despite its higher price and not so favorable color rendering. I prefer the GX1 because of the faster, reliable autofocusing and the slightly better image quality in low-light condition as I find myself doing more natural light photography with lenses faster than f/2.8.

For a hobbyist photographer wanting to venture into the world of mirrorless camera systems, there are some tough choices to be made. If you were to ask an experienced photographer, he would tell you to select a camera system with a good selection of lenses and accessories that will grow with your photography skills.

I totally agree with him.

However, I think the camera price is the most important concern of the hobbyist photographer.

Panasonic GX1 vs Olympus EP3 vs Sony NEX-5N Price

Mirrorless Camera System: Micro Four Thirds vs APS-C

Olympus and Panasonic mirrorless cameras use the Micro Four Thirds (m4/3) and have many followers. The Olympus EP3 and the Panasonic GX1 are the latest offerings for the m4/3 format. As for the mirrorless APS-C cameras, Sony and Samsung have launched several new models last years. The Sony NEX-5N being the current hot favorite of all APS-C format mirrorless cameras.

Sensor Size Comparison: APS-C vs Micro Four Thirds
(The yellow line is the new Nikon’s 1″ CX-format)

Larger Sensor, Better Low-light Performance

In terms of sensor size and resolution, Sony NEX-5N has better specs. The APS-C sensor is 60% larger than micro four thirds. Typically, larger sensor gives better image quality at higher ISO so photos taken in low-light condition look better.

For people who have no preference on the brands and the subtle differences in color rendering and sharpening, the Sony NEX-5N is the superior choice.

Mirrorless Camera Price Comparison

Honestly, it is not fair to compare the prices of the Sony NEX-5N, Olympus EP3 and Panasonic GX1.

Why?

Because older models are priced lower than newer models. Panasonic GX1 is the newest, follows by Olympus EP3 and Sony NEX-5N. The GX1 started shipping in early 2012. The EP3 and NEX-5N were available in late 2011. So the street price of Sony NEX-5N has dropped significantly. Olympus has started to slash price of the EP3 by as much as $100 to compete with the newer Panasonic GX1 that comes with the X PZ 14-42mm lens.