Nikon COOLPIX W300 Review
The Nikon COOLPIX W300 is a rugged outdoor camera that is built for the outdoors, sports, and recreation. This point and shoot camera is ideal for any outdoor and sports enthusiast. Nikon’s COOLPIX W300 has video capability and shoots in 4K UHD. One of the main draws for this camera is that it is completely waterproof and is safe without a housing up to 30m/100ft. This camera is not only waterproof but it is freezeproof and shockproof, meaning you don’t have to worry about dropping this camera or taking it on a high altitude expedition. Whether you are mountain biking, scuba diving, trekking, or just exploring some place new, the Nikon COOLPIX W30 might be the perfect camera to suit your needs.
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**Note: This product was released on June 30, 2017 but has since been discontinued. It still can be purchased online.
The Nikon COOLPIX W300 is built for thrill seekers and outdoor enthusiasts who need a tough camera that matches their hobbies and lifestyle. The COOLPIX W300 is built for any activity under any condition whether it be for scuba diving, mountain biking, surfing, or even mountaineering. The point is, this camera can withstand tough conditions. The COOLPIX W300 is waterproof and can be used at depths as low as 30m/100ft and has a shockproof of 2.4m/8ft.
The Nikon COOLPIX W300 shoots 4K Ultra HD or 1080p Full HD videos. This camera has a 16MP sensor and 5x optical zoom. Built in the camera is the hybrid Vibration Reduction (VR) that assists with the steadiness even when performing activities like snorkeling or snowboarding. If trying to capture fast motions or actions, the camera is capable of capturing 7 frames a second.
Built in the COOLPIX W300 is a GPS, eCompass, altimeter, along with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Another nifty feature on this camera is the LED light that can be turned on at any moment.
The built in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth allow users to share photos and videos at any moment using any compatible smartphone or device. The app used for this is called SnapBridge.
To make it a little less-wordy, here are the important camera features for the Nikon COOLPIX W300
- Waterproof up to 30m/100ft
- Shockproof up to 2.4m/8ft
- Shoots 4K Ultra HD or 1080p Full HD videos
- Capable of shooting 7 frames per second
- 5x optical zoom
- Built in GPS, eCompass altimeter, and flashlight
- Snapbridge app to share and store photos on the go
- hybrid Vibration Reduction
- 16MP sensor
Nikon COOLPIX W300 Review
I primarily use my Nikon d7500 when out and about. But I’ve always had a need for a camera that I could take on my outdoor adventures whether it be scuba diving or cycling. To be honest, sometimes when traveling, it is a pain to lug around the giant DSLR camera, so having a compact camera handy to log my travels is necessary. I did my research on several waterproof cameras. I took in to account several factors, including price, durability, and quality of photos and that is how I landed the Nikon COOLPIX W300. I don’t take videos, so I wasn’t as interested in Go-Pro. It came down to the Olympus Tough and the Nikon COOLPIX. The Olympus camera was waterproof up to 15m/50ft and was about $100 more expensive then the COOLPIX. This is my Nikon COOLPIX W300 review based on my personal opinion and experience using it.
I’ve owned the Nikon COOLPIX W300 for several years now and have taken it on several adventures around the world. It’s been with me while cycling the Katy Trail in Missouri, bike riding from Seoul to Chuncheon in S. Korea, snorkeling the beautiful waters around Caye Caulker in Belize, and scuba diving around the tropical island of Okinawa. Simply put, this is my go to camera for all my outdoor activities that I truly love.
The COOLPIX W300 is a simple point and shoot camera. In terms of usage, it is very easy to navigate the screens and choose camera modes ideal for the present situation. Simply hit the “Scene Button” and I can go from landscape mode to underwater mode.
The Nikon COOLPIX W300 has a large shutter release button that has grooves in it for extra traction. Between the size and extra traction of the shutter release button it’s easy to focus on a subject and take the photo. I recently purchased gloves for diving and had no issues with the shutter release button.
When cycling and kayaking, I enjoy the vibration reduction the camera has. I feel it does a good job at capturing the moment without shake and blurriness.
I don’t really use or feel a need for the built in GPS, eCompass, or altimeter, as I usually have my own devices to record those features that are separate from the camera itself. But I have played around with these features and they work as expected.
I stated earlier, I don’t really shoot film, I stick to photography. I did try and take video of a sea snake while snorkeling in Okinawa, and the video was so shaky it was not worth saving. I am not sure if that was my inexperience with shooting video or what, but I can’t blame the camera on poor video quality based on that video alone.
PROS
- The COOLPIX W300 is waterproof up to 30m/100ft and shock proof up to 2.4m/8ft
- Easy to use and capture images at any moment
- Takes clear images and the colors are decent enough
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
- Multiple modes ready for any occasion
- Can take anywhere and rugged enough for all terrains and weather
CONS
- The plastic screen scratches easily
- Video is not as sharp
- SnapBridge app is troublesome on some phones
- It is just a point and shoot camera, so it is limited
- Not a whole lot of accessories
Using the COOLPIX W300 for Diving and Snorkeling
The COOLPIX W300 is waterproof and capable of going to depths up to 30m/100ft. I’ve taken this camera with me several times both while snorkeling and scuba diving.
First things first, before entering the water with the COOLPIX W300, always make sure the card/battery compartment is shut tight and appropriately locked. Once confirmed, in the Scenes Menu, change the mode to Underwater, this will give you the best results when taking photos.
I’d also recommend purchasing a Floating Strap. It’s basically just a device that wraps around your wrist that is designed to keep the camera afloat. It won’t interfere with anything while snorkeling or scuba diving. I keep this around my wrist at all times and have never had an issue with it pulling from me or anything. But to be safe, it is assuring to know that if the camera become detached from myself, that it will simply float to the surface.
Chances are this camera will be used in salt water. It is recommended to always rinse the camera with fresh water after each use.
Photos Taken With the Nikon COOLPIX W300
What’s a review without pictures taken with the COOLPIX W300 directly by me doing what I love. Here are a few of my personal favorite photos taken with the W300. These photos have very limited editing so I can show what the natural colors and quality is like.
Is the Nikon COOLPIX W300 Worth it?
This Nikon COOLPIX W300 review is just my personal opinion based on my experience I’ve had with this camera over the years. I’ve used the camera while kayaking, scuba diving, snorkeling, cycling, and for some general travel. I am very pleased with the camera based on the durability, price, and quality. I know, it’s just a point and shoot and the images will not be anywhere near the quality of my Nikon D7500. But I can take this camera to places I would never dare take my D7500. I’ve taken many great photographs with the COOLPIX W300 and love taking it diving and snorkeling with me. So based on all of this, is the Nikon COOLPIX W300 wort it? I think so and I would recommend it for anyone who wants to capture those extreme moments that come with sports and recreational activities we all love.
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3 Comments
Shane Down
They are a great camera I’ve owned a few but why are you doing a review on a fantastic product which is discontinued
zimminaround
I double checked, it is discontinued but it can still be bought online. Glad you like the camera, hopefully it has treated you well. I’ll make sure to mention in my post that this camera is discontinued. Thanks for the heads up!
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