Review: Nikon COOLPIX S1200pj - A point-and-shoot with a projector in it

The Coolpix series consists of point-and-shoot digital cameras from Nikon. The S series Coolpix cameras are ultra-compact cameras with style and simplicity. Coolpix S1200pj is the third generation camera in this line and puts a built-in pico projector to the table. But this is not the only change in the S series Coolpix. While the first generation was simply a camera with all its functions, second generation had a projector that could be used to view stuff after connecting to computer, the third generation provides support to all the iDevices, which include iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch, iPod nano and help you display the content through them on the projector. This new change is nothing less than a quantum leap for Nikon and will definitely attract people who own portable Apple devices and would like to experience better picture/video quality.

COOLPIX S1200pj

What is it?

COOLPIX S1200pj is a 14.1 MP camera with a built-in projector that is capable of projecting images/videos on any flat surface up to 60 inched diagonally. The 5x zoom lens gives you wide and close-up options. It consists of sexy-looking illuminated button controls as well as a wireless remote control to access all its functionalities. The 5x wide-angle optical zoom lens is intended for capturing landscapes and wide group shots. Its 3-inch high-resolution screen gives you crisp and clear visuals.

Key features:

The device supports multimedia and you can add images, audio and video clips in your presentations. It has on-board music and graphics and makes it extremely easy to share photos and videos with friends. You can also connect it to your iPhone, iPad and iPod. The camera comes with a built-in stand that ensures proper angle for optimal projection by tilting it a required angle. Its 28mm to 140mm equivalent optical zoom lens gives you the freedom to shoot close-ups as well as landscapes.

It helps you shoot high-definition (720p) videos with full stereo sound. The optimal zoom can be used to increase the proximity to the space being recorded. After you have recorded these videos/images, you can see them on any flat surface utilizing your projector. The device can be run in different modes based on the need of the hour. The Easy Auto mode adjusts camera settings automatically and saves you the burden, while the Smart Portrait mode is for parties. The Smart Portrait System has another feature called Smile Timer that helps camera automatically realize when the object is smiling. Besides these features, there is a Vibration Reduction (VR) Image Stabilization feature helps in producing sharper images in case of shaky camera.

What's innovative?

The internal projector in Coolpix S1200pj can project images/videos up tp 5 feet large. The device is one of the first devices in its segment to leverage the power of mobile Apple devices. Now you can connect your iPhone, iPad, iPod nano, iPod photo to S1200pj and utilize its projector to watch high quality imaged/videos. This can be particularly useful in hosting parties or other functions.

Price and availability:

It is currently priced at $429.95 and will be available at all Nikon stores.

Accessories:

The accessories offered include battery charger, AC Adapter, rechargeable battery, USB cable, audio video cable, strap, remote control and a fabric case.

The up side:

Coolpix S1200pj certainly has a pleasant size and build as compared to its predecessors. It is 2.5-inches tall, 4.3-inches wide and 0.9-inches thick and 186 grams in weight. The metal build makes it stronger and classier. As it happens with other projector-based cameras, the in-built projector doesn't hurt the camera performance in this case and marks the product as an exception.

S1200pj is based on DLP projection which gives it a battery life of 350 snaps or a full hour of projection. The camera offers 40 percent brighter images than its predecessors increasing it from 14 to 20 lumens. Nikon is providing a cable that will help you in connecting your 30-pin iDevice to 3.5 mm jack of your camera. This has made integrating such devices to your camera convenient.

The down side:

The camera works fine in well-lit conditions with the camera in a stable position at proper the required tilt. However, the image quality degrades sharply as you change the conditions to wobbly camera and uneven lighting. Also the quality of projection degrades in case you project it on an uneven surface. The device is not ideal for highly detailed images/videos, but rather day-to-day pictures and images that you would like to share with your friends.

Our experience:

Coolpix S1200pj is first of its kind from Nikon that gives you the advantage of built-in projector as well as compatibility with iPhone, iPad and iPod. This offers a great advantage to Apple fans, especially those who are already in possession of these devices. It packs the features of a good camera with improved support for third party devices and ability to project your multimedia files.

Bottomline:

Coolpix S1200pj is a win-win situation for anyone who wants a projector mounted camera with iDevices support and affordable price. It is more a fashion statement as you can carry the device in your pocket and capture images and videos at will.