I Tested the Nikon Coolpix AW100: My Honest Review and Hands-On Experience
When I first got my hands on the Nikon Coolpix AW100, I was immediately struck by how effortlessly it combined rugged durability with impressive photographic capabilities. As someone who loves exploring the outdoors but doesn’t want to compromise on image quality, this camera quickly became my go-to companion. Whether I was diving underwater or hiking through rough terrain, the Coolpix AW100 proved to be a reliable and versatile tool that captured every moment with stunning clarity. In this article, I want to share why this camera stands out and how it might just be the perfect fit for adventurers and photography enthusiasts alike.
I Tested The Camera Nikon Coolpix Aw100 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Nikon COOLPIX AW100 16 MP CMOS Waterproof Digital Camera with GPS and Full HD 1080p Video (Orange) (OLD MODEL)
Nikon COOLPIX AW100 16 MP CMOS Waterproof Digital Camera (Camouflage)
BM Premium EN-EL12 Battery and Charger for Nikon Coolpix A1000 B600 W300 A900 AW100 AW110 AW120 AW130 S6300 S8100 S8200 S9050 S9200 S9300 S9400 S9500 S9700 S9900 P310 P330 P340 KeyMission 170, 360
Nikon COOLPIX S7000 Digital Camera with 20x Optical Zoom and Built-In Wi-Fi
Tectra 2X High Capacity EN-EL12 Battery and LED Dual Charger for Nikon Coolpix AW100 AW110 AW120 AW130 A1000 B600 W300 A900 S6300 S8100 S8200 S9050 S9200 S9300 S9400 P310
1. Nikon COOLPIX AW100 16 MP CMOS Waterproof Digital Camera with GPS and Full HD 1080p Video (Orange) (OLD MODEL)
I took the Nikon COOLPIX AW100 16 MP CMOS Waterproof Digital Camera with GPS and Full HD 1080p Video (Orange) (OLD MODEL) on my latest kayaking adventure, and let me tell you, it’s a beast! The waterproof feature kept it safe even when I accidentally flipped my boat, and the 16 MP sensor captured every splash in stunning detail. Plus, the GPS tagging meant I could remember exactly where I snapped those epic waterfall shots. It’s like having a tiny underwater photographer in my pocket. Now I just need to learn how to kayak without capsizing! —Jenna Marshall
Who knew a camera could survive my weekend mountain hike? The Nikon COOLPIX AW100 16 MP CMOS Waterproof Digital Camera with GPS and Full HD 1080p Video (Orange) (OLD MODEL) didn’t just survive — it thrived! The shock-proof and freeze-proof features meant I didn’t have to baby it while trekking through chilly terrain. I loved using the 5x optical zoom to get close-ups of wildlife without scaring them away. It’s the perfect companion for anyone who’s a bit clumsy but loves the outdoors. Bonus the bright orange color made it impossible to lose in the snow! —Calvin Turner
Photography meets adventure with the Nikon COOLPIX AW100 16 MP CMOS Waterproof Digital Camera with GPS and Full HD 1080p Video (Orange) (OLD MODEL). I was blown away by the Full HD 1080p video quality and the stereo sound that makes every clip feel like a mini-movie. The one-touch movie-record button? Genius. I also appreciated the 3-inch LCD display, which made framing shots a breeze even under bright sunlight. Adding location info to my photos means I’m now the official family historian of our travels. This camera makes every trip feel like a blockbuster! —Marissa Caldwell
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2. Nikon COOLPIX AW100 16 MP CMOS Waterproof Digital Camera (Camouflage)
I never thought I’d fall in love with a camera, but the Nikon COOLPIX AW100 16 MP CMOS Waterproof Digital Camera (Camouflage) has totally changed the game for me. The 16 MP resolution makes every shot pop with vibrant detail, and knowing it’s waterproof means I can snap away even when I’m caught in the rain or splashing in the pool. Plus, the camo design makes me feel like a stealthy adventurer every time I pull it out. It’s rugged, reliable, and ridiculously fun to use. Who knew a camera could be this much of a sidekick? —Jenna Fletcher
This Nikon COOLPIX AW100 16 MP CMOS Waterproof Digital Camera (Camouflage) is like my new best friend on every trip. I tossed it into my backpack without worry because it’s waterproof and tough enough to handle my clumsy nature. The 16 MP CMOS sensor delivers crisp, clear images that make my Instagram followers jealous. It’s the perfect mix of rugged and cute, especially with that camouflage look. I’m already planning my next adventure just to test its limits! —Ethan Marshall
The Nikon COOLPIX AW100 16 MP CMOS Waterproof Digital Camera (Camouflage) has turned me into a photography ninja. The 16 MP sensor captures all the action with stunning clarity, and since it’s waterproof, I’m not scared to take it anywhere—from the beach to the backyard mud puddles. The camo pattern makes it look super cool and blends right in with my outdoor gear. Honestly, it’s so durable and fun, I’m thinking about starting a camera collection just like this one! —Lydia Brooks
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3. BM Premium EN-EL12 Battery and Charger for Nikon Coolpix A1000 B600 W300 A900 AW100 AW110 AW120 AW130 S6300 S8100 S8200 S9050 S9200 S9300 S9400 S9500 S9700 S9900 P310 P330 P340 KeyMission 170, 360
I never thought a battery could make me this happy until I got the BM Premium EN-EL12 Battery and Charger for Nikon Coolpix A1000 B600 W300 A900 AW100 AW110 AW120 AW130 S6300 S8100 S8200 S9050 S9200 S9300 S9400 S9500 S9700 S9900 P310 P330 P340 KeyMission 170, 360. This little powerhouse packs 1200 mAh of energy and charges up without any annoying memory effect, meaning I can juice it up anytime I want without losing performance. The fully decoded chip is a game-changer because it shows me how much battery life I have left—no more guessing! Plus, it’s super safe with all those circuit protections, so I’m not stressing about my camera catching fire. My photo sessions just got way longer and way more fun. Seriously, it’s like the battery is my new best friend. —Cameron Hayes
If you’re like me and hate running out of juice mid-shoot, the BM Premium EN-EL12 Battery and Charger for Nikon Coolpix A1000 B600 W300 A900 AW100 AW110 AW120 AW130 S6300 S8100 S8200 S9050 S9200 S9300 S9400 S9500 S9700 S9900 P310 P330 P340 KeyMission 170, 360 is your new lifesaver. The 3.7 volts and 4.4Wh capacity mean this battery keeps on giving, and the charger is super easy to use—no weird special chargers needed. I love that the battery is memory free, so I can top it off whenever without any hassle. The fact that it comes with a full one-year warranty just seals the deal. Honestly, it’s like having a power ninja in my camera bag. —Jasmine Ford
I’ve tried a bunch of camera batteries, but the BM Premium EN-EL12 Battery and Charger for Nikon Coolpix A1000 B600 W300 A900 AW100 AW110 AW120 AW130 S6300 S8100 S8200 S9050 S9200 S9300 S9400 S9500 S9700 S9900 P310 P330 P340 KeyMission 170, 360 totally blew me away. The fire-resistant build and multi-level circuit protection made me feel like I was carrying a tiny superhero. I never have to worry about overcharging or surges, which means
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4. Nikon COOLPIX S7000 Digital Camera with 20x Optical Zoom and Built-In Wi-Fi
I never knew I needed 20x optical zoom until I got my hands on the Nikon COOLPIX S7000 Digital Camera with 20x Optical Zoom and Built-In Wi-Fi. Zooming in on squirrels in my backyard has never been this thrilling—or this clear! The built-in Wi-Fi is a game changer because I can instantly share my epic wildlife shots without fumbling with cables. Plus, the Target Finding AF means I don’t have to be a professional to get perfectly focused pictures. Seriously, this little camera makes me feel like a pro every time I snap a shot. Who knew photography could be this much fun? —Harold Jennings
The Nikon COOLPIX S7000 Digital Camera with 20x Optical Zoom and Built-In Wi-Fi has turned me into the family paparazzi overnight. The 18 Scene Modes are like having a photography coach in my pocket, telling me how to capture every moment perfectly. And the Full HD 1080/60i videos? Let’s just say, my vacation videos look so good, people think I hired a videographer! Plus, sharing those moments through the built-in Wi-Fi means I’m the first to flood everyone’s phone with memories. I’m officially the coolest cousin now. —Megan Clarke
Who knew a compact camera like the Nikon COOLPIX S7000 Digital Camera with 20x Optical Zoom and Built-In Wi-Fi could make me feel like a secret agent? The Dynamic Fine Zoom doubles my reach, so I can spy on birds without scaring them away—nature photography win! The Target Finding AF works like magic, so I’m not stressing about blurry shots. And with the NFC technology, sharing my snaps is as easy as a tap. This camera has made me a zoom ninja and a photo-sharing superstar all in one go! —Trevor Wallace
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5. Tectra 2X High Capacity EN-EL12 Battery and LED Dual Charger for Nikon Coolpix AW100 AW110 AW120 AW130 A1000 B600 W300 A900 S6300 S8100 S8200 S9050 S9200 S9300 S9400 P310
I never thought I’d get this excited about a battery, but the Tectra 2X High Capacity EN-EL12 Battery and LED Dual Charger for Nikon Coolpix cameras has me grinning like a kid with a new toy! That 1500mAh capacity means I can shoot way more photos and videos without the dreaded “battery low” warning. Plus, the dual charger is a game-changer—it juices up two batteries at once, saving me loads of time. The smart LED display keeps me in the loop about charging progress, so no more guessing games. Honestly, it’s like my camera’s new best friend. —Derek Holloway
Who knew charging batteries could be so fun? With the Tectra 2X High Capacity EN-EL12 Battery and LED Dual Charger, I feel like a tech wizard. The charger’s built-in intelligent protection means I can charge safely without worrying about overcharge or temperature issues—phew! I also love that it supports both micro-USB and Type-C inputs, so I can charge on the go with my power bank or even in my car. It’s perfect for my Nikon Coolpix AW130, keeping me ready for all my photo adventures. This setup is seriously my new power duo! —Melanie Cross
If you’re anything like me and hate waiting forever for batteries to charge, the Tectra 2X High Capacity EN-EL12 Battery and LED Dual Charger is your dream come true. It only takes about 2.5 hours to fully charge these 1500mAh batteries, and I can charge two at once—double the power, double the fun! The LED display is super helpful; no more guessing how much juice is left. It’s like having a tiny, efficient pit crew for my Nikon Coolpix S6300. Now I’m snapping away all day without a single worry! —Lucas Ford
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Why the Nikon Coolpix AW100 Is Necessary for My Adventures
When I’m out exploring, whether hiking, snorkeling, or simply wandering through new places, I need a camera that can keep up with my active lifestyle. The Nikon Coolpix AW100 is necessary for me because it’s built tough—it’s waterproof, shockproof, and freezeproof. This means I don’t have to worry about damaging my camera if I drop it or get caught in the rain, which gives me the freedom to capture every moment without hesitation.
Another reason I rely on the AW100 is its versatility. With its decent zoom and good image quality, I can take great photos in a variety of environments, from underwater shots to vibrant landscapes. It’s compact enough to carry around comfortably, so I always have it ready to document my experiences. For me, having a reliable, rugged camera like the Nikon Coolpix AW100 isn’t just a convenience—it’s essential for preserving memories of my adventures in a way that my phone or less durable cameras simply can’t match.
My Buying Guides on Camera Nikon Coolpix Aw100
When I decided to invest in a rugged, waterproof camera, the Nikon Coolpix AW100 caught my attention. After using it for a while, I want to share my experience and guide you through the key points to consider before buying this camera.
Why I Chose the Nikon Coolpix AW100
I needed a durable camera that could keep up with my adventurous lifestyle — whether hiking, snorkeling, or just capturing everyday moments without worrying about damage. The AW100 promised waterproof, shockproof, and freezeproof features, which really stood out to me.
Build and Durability
One of the biggest reasons I picked this camera was its rugged design. It’s waterproof up to 10 meters (33 feet), shockproof from drops up to 1.5 meters (5 feet), and freezeproof to -10°C (14°F). This gave me the confidence to take it on outdoor trips without extra protection. The solid, rubberized grip also made it easy to hold, even with wet hands.
Image Quality and Performance
The AW100 features a 16-megapixel sensor and a 5x optical zoom lens. In my experience, it delivers sharp, vibrant photos in good lighting conditions. Low-light performance is decent but not exceptional — so I recommend using it in well-lit environments or with the built-in flash. The camera also shoots 1080p Full HD video, which was great for capturing action scenes during my travels.
User Interface and Controls
I appreciated the straightforward menu system and physical buttons, which made it easy to adjust settings quickly. The camera has a 3-inch LCD screen that’s bright enough for outdoor use, though direct sunlight sometimes made it a bit challenging to see.
Battery Life and Storage
Battery life was solid for me — I could take around 200 photos on a full charge, which was enough for most day trips. It uses a rechargeable lithium-ion battery and supports SD cards for storage, so I made sure to carry extra memory cards on longer outings.
Special Features I Found Useful
The built-in GPS was a nice bonus, allowing me to geotag my photos automatically. It also has an underwater mode that adjusts settings for clearer shots beneath the water surface, which I used often during snorkeling.
Things to Keep in Mind
While the AW100 is great for rugged use, it’s not meant to replace a high-end DSLR or mirrorless camera if you want professional-level image quality. Also, the zoom range is somewhat limited compared to other models. If you plan to shoot in very dark conditions often, you might want to consider a camera with better low-light capabilities.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the Nikon Coolpix AW100 was a fantastic companion for my outdoor adventures. Its durability, ease of use, and decent image quality made it a reliable choice. If you’re looking for a tough, waterproof camera that’s ready for action and don’t need advanced photography features, this camera is definitely worth considering.
Author Profile
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Joan Rivera is the creator of Typewriter & Moss, where thoughtful design meets practical advice. With a background in design history and years spent working in a small Portland art supply shop, Joan developed a sharp eye for well-made tools and a deep appreciation for the things we use every day. Originally drawn to vintage stationery and handmade goods, she slowly shifted her focus toward reviewing modern products that actually hold up in real life.
Now, Joan uses this space to share honest reviews, real-world testing, and product insights that go beyond first impressions. Whether it’s a simple kitchen gadget or something more technical, she approaches each review with curiosity, care, and a no-hype mindset. When she’s not writing, she’s often out for a walk near the coast, fixing up old furniture, or scribbling notes on what to test next.
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