Nikon 1 J4 Review | 108 Data compared

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  • Avg. price: ~£130
  • Sensor size: 1-inch
  • Lens mount: Nikon 1
  • Main camera pixel size: 2.52 µm
  • Weight: 232 g
  • Battery life (CIPA): 300 shots

Nikon 1 J4 review. Compare 108 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among cameras and if it is worth buying.

5.8

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the camera's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best cameras on the market.

Score components:

90.0%

5.5

Technical Score

10.0%

8.3

User score

Good
5.5

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the camera's technical performance, covering eight key areas: image quality, autofocus, video features, stabilization, lens compatibility, connectivity, battery, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare cameras based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

28.0%

4.8

Sensor & Image

25.0%

6.2

Photo Features

18.0%

5.6

Video & Audio

14.0%

6.3

Display & Design

8.0%

4.4

Battery & Power

7.0%

4.8

Connectivity & Storage

Good
8.3

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the camera.

When it matters: When real-world owner satisfaction and review volume matter to your decision.

Score components:

70.0%

8.1

User reviews

30.0%

8.7

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.1
(46)
amazon
3.3
(3)

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

Excellent
  • 6.7
    Professional photography

    Score components:

    25.0%

    7.9

    Sensor size

    20.0%

    6.3

    Main camera megapixels

    20.0%

    1.0

    Dual card slots

    15.0%

    8.3

    N. of focus points

    10.0%

    10

    RAW photo capture

    10.0%

    10

    Phase-detection autofocus (photos)

  • 4.8
    Travel

    Score components:

    35.0%

    9.3

    Weight

    30.0%

    3.8

    Battery life (CIPA)

    20.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    15.0%

    1.0

    GPS

  • 8.6
    Beginners

    Score components:

    30.0%

    9.8

    Price

    20.0%

    9.3

    Weight

    20.0%

    10

    AF tracking

    20.0%

    3.8

    Battery life (CIPA)

    10.0%

    10

    Touchscreen

  • 5.8
    Landscape photography

    Score components:

    30.0%

    6.3

    Main camera megapixels

    25.0%

    7.9

    Sensor size

    20.0%

    4.0

    Main camera pixel size

    15.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    10.0%

    10

    RAW photo capture

  • 7.1
    Street photography

    Score components:

    30.0%

    9.3

    Weight

    25.0%

    9.7

    Thickness

    20.0%

    ?

    AF low-light sensitivity

    15.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    10.0%

    1.0

    Eye detection AF (human)

  • 4.6
    Portraits

    Score components:

    30.0%

    7.9

    Sensor size

    25.0%

    4.0

    Main camera pixel size

    20.0%

    1.0

    Eye detection AF (human)

    15.0%

    6.3

    Main camera megapixels

    10.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

  • 4.6
    Hiking

    Score components:

    30.0%

    9.3

    Weight

    25.0%

    3.8

    Battery life (CIPA)

    20.0%

    2.8

    Min operating temperature

    15.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    10.0%

    1.0

    GPS

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Best prices in UK

Best rankings

?

Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The Nikon 1 J4 is a compact, mirrorless interchangeable lens camera featuring an 18.4-megapixel CX-format CMOS sensor and the EXPEED 4A image processor. Its standout characteristic is exceptional speed, offering a hybrid autofocus system with 105 phase-detection points and blistering continuous shooting rates of up to 20 fps with autofocus or 60 fps with fixed focus. Main pros include its lightweight 192g aluminium body, built-in Wi-Fi, and a responsive 3-inch 1,037k-dot touchscreen that compensates for its minimal physical controls. However, notable cons include a lack of a built-in viewfinder or handgrip, poor high-ISO performance above 800, and a fixed LCD screen that does not tilt.

Technical Specifications of Nikon 1 J4

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the camera's technical performance, covering eight key areas: image quality, autofocus, video features, stabilization, lens compatibility, connectivity, battery, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare cameras based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

28.0%

4.8

Sensor & Image

25.0%

6.2

Photo Features

18.0%

5.6

Video & Audio

14.0%

6.3

Display & Design

8.0%

4.4

Battery & Power

7.0%

4.8

Connectivity & Storage

5.5
Nikon 1 J4 has a technical score of 5.48 points, which is higher than 63.8% of cameras.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the camera.

When it matters: When real-world owner satisfaction and review volume matter to your decision.

Score components:

70.0%

8.1

User reviews

30.0%

8.7

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.1
(46)
amazon
3.3
(3)

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

8.3
Nikon 1 J4 has a user score of 8.29 points, which is higher than 65% of cameras.
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the camera.
When it matters: When you want to see which cameras attract the most buyer attention and review activity.
8.7
Nikon 1 J4 has a popularity of 8.7 points, which is higher than 64.7% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the camera's overall rating with its cost.

When it matters: When you want to know how much overall quality you get for the price.

Score components:

60.0%

5.8

Overall score

40.0%

9.8

Price

7.0
Nikon 1 J4 has a quality-to-price ratio of 7 points, which is higher than 87.6% of products in this category.
Sensor size
What it is: The sensor format value describes the physical light-collecting area.
When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: Full frame or larger

1-inch
Nikon 1 J4 uses a sensor classified as 1-inch; it is smaller than the sensor in 51.1% of cameras and the same size as the sensor in 5.2% of cameras.
Main camera megapixels
What it is: The effective resolution of the camera sensor, measured in megapixels (MP). Higher megapixels can capture more detail.
When it matters: When you want high-resolution photos that allow more cropping or larger prints.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 20 MP

18.4 MP
Nikon 1 J4 has a main camera resolution of 18.4 MP, which is higher than that of 60.3% of cameras and equal to that of 0.1% of cameras.
Main camera pixel size
What it is: The physical size of individual pixels on the camera sensor, measured in micrometers. Larger pixels typically capture more light for better low-light performance.
When it matters: When you shoot in low light and want reduced noise in your photos.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 3.5 µm

2.52 µm
Nikon 1 J4 has a main camera pixel size of 2.52 µm which is smaller than in 52.1% of cameras and equal to the size in 0.1% of cameras.
Base ISO
What it is: The native ISO setting that delivers the sensor’s standard balance of image quality and dynamic range.
When it matters: When you want the best native image quality and compare cameras at their most optimal sensitivity setting.

Importance: LOW

160
Nikon 1 J4 has a base ISO of 160 which is higher than that of 80.7% of cameras and equal to that of 4.1% of cameras.
Max ISO
What it is: The ISO ceiling shows the highest sensor sensitivity available for darker scenes.
When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least ISO 25,600

12,800
Nikon 1 J4 reaches a maximum sensitivity of ISO 12,800, which is higher than that of 54.5% of cameras and equal to that of 18.7% of cameras.
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Lens mount
What it is: The mechanical and electronic interface that determines which interchangeable lenses the camera can use.
When it matters: When lens availability, upgrade options, and long-term system compatibility are central to your buying decision.

Importance: LOW

Nikon 1
Built-in focus motor
What it is: Indicates whether the camera body includes an internal autofocus motor for driving compatible lenses.
When it matters: When you plan to use older or budget lenses that depend on the camera body for autofocus drive.

Importance: LOW

no
Nikon 1 J4 does not have a built-in focus motor. 11% of cameras have a built-in focus motor.
N. of focus points
What it is: The total number of selectable autofocus points available for positioning and tracking focus.
When it matters: When you want more flexibility in placing focus precisely or tracking subjects across the frame.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 200 points

171
Nikon 1 J4 has 171 focus points, more than the number offered by 83.4% of cameras and equal to the number offered by 0.6% of cameras.
Phase-detection autofocus (photos)
What it is: Autofocus technology that measures phase differences to lock focus quickly and accurately for still photography.
When it matters: When you want faster and more reliable autofocus for still photos, especially with moving subjects.

Importance: HIGH

yes
Nikon 1 J4 supports phase-detection autofocus for photos. 37.3% of cameras support phase-detection autofocus for photos.
AF tracking
What it is: An autofocus mode that continuously follows a moving subject to keep it sharp during shooting.
When it matters: When your subjects move unpredictably and you need the camera to keep focus on them automatically.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Nikon 1 J4 supports AF tracking. This feature is available on 88% of cameras.
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Max video resolution
What it is: The highest video resolution the camera can record, defining the maximum level of captured image detail.
When it matters: When you care about recording the highest level of detail for cropping, editing, or future-proof video work.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 3840 px

1920 px
Nikon 1 J4 supports 1920 px video recording which is higher quality than that of 28.7% of cameras and equal to that of 47.1% of cameras.
Video bitrate
What it is: The amount of video data recorded per second, which affects file size and potential recording quality.
When it matters: When you compare potential video quality and want fewer compression artifacts in demanding scenes.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 200 Mbps

?
Video bit depth
What it is: The number of bits used per color channel in recorded video, affecting gradation smoothness and editing flexibility.
When it matters: When you color grade video and want smoother gradients with fewer banding issues.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 10-bit

8 bit
Nikon 1 J4 supports video at 8 bit, a bit depth higher than that of 7.8% of cameras and equal to that of 80.6% of cameras.
Video chroma subsampling
What it is: The color sampling format used in video recording, indicating how much color detail is retained relative to brightness detail.
When it matters: When color grading, keying, or serious post-production work is important in your video workflow.

Importance: LOW

4:2:0
Nikon 1 J4 supports 4:2:0 video chroma subsampling which is more advanced than that of 7.8% of cameras and equal to that of 69.9% of cameras.
Video codecs
What it is: The video compression formats the camera can use when recording, affecting compatibility, efficiency, and workflow.
When it matters: When compatibility, editing performance, and file efficiency matter in the way you handle video.

Importance: LOW

H.264
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Type
What it is: The camera type identifies the overall design, such as mirrorless, DSLR, compact, or bridge.
When it matters: When you want a camera style that matches how you shoot, carry, and swap lenses.

Importance: LOW

mirrorless
Weight
What it is: The total weight of the camera body, which affects comfort while carrying and shooting.
When it matters: When you carry the camera all day, travel often, or prefer a lighter setup.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: 500 g or less

232 g
Nikon 1 J4 weighs 232 g which is lighter than 71.3% of cameras and equal to the weight of 0.2% of cameras.
Width
What it is: The width of the camera body, measured from side to side.
When it matters: When compact packing, grip comfort, or bag fit matters to you.

Importance: LOW

100 mm
Nikon 1 J4 has a width of 100 mm which is narrower than 83% of cameras and equal to that of 0.4% of cameras.
Height
What it is: The height of the camera body, measured from top to bottom.
When it matters: When you care about how compact the camera feels in a bag or in hand.

Importance: LOW

60 mm
Nikon 1 J4 has a height of 60 mm which is shorter than 78.1% of cameras and equal to that of 1.4% of cameras.
Thickness
What it is: The depth of the device profile, excluding the camera bump unless specified.
When it matters: When you prefer a sleek, slim profile that slides easily into tight pockets.

Importance: LOW

28.5 mm
Nikon 1 J4 has a thickness of 28.5 mm which is thinner than 79.9% of cameras and equal to that of 0.3% of cameras.
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Battery life (CIPA)
What it is: The official battery endurance estimate measured under CIPA test methodology, usually expressed in shots per charge.
When it matters: When you need realistic expectations for how many shots you can take before carrying a spare battery.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 400 shots

300 shots
Nikon 1 J4 has a CIPA-rated battery life of 300 shots, which is shorter than that of 57.8% of cameras and equal to that of 6.7% of cameras.
Battery capacity
What it is: The amount of electric charge the battery can hold, measured in milliampere-hours (mAh).
When it matters: When you want a general idea of how large the battery is physically.

Importance: LOW

Good value: At least 1,500 mAh

1,010 mAh
Nikon 1 J4 has a battery capacity of 1,010 mAh which is smaller than the batteries in 68.8% of cameras and equal to those in 0.6% of cameras.
Removable battery
What it is: Indicates whether the flight battery can be removed and swapped by the user.
When it matters: When you want to swap batteries quickly between flights.

Importance: LOW

yes
Nikon 1 J4 has a removable battery, and 98.7% of cameras include one.
USB Power Delivery (PD)
What it is: Support for the USB Power Delivery standard for higher-power charging or external power supply over USB-C.
When it matters: When you want faster USB-C charging or the ability to power the camera externally for longer sessions.

Importance: LOW

no
Nikon 1 J4 does not support USB Power Delivery. 10.1% of cameras support USB Power Delivery.
Wi-Fi connectivity
What it is: Indicates whether the camera has built-in Wi-Fi for image transfer, remote control, or network features.
When it matters: When you want to transfer photos wirelessly, control the camera from a phone, or use supported network workflows.

Importance: LOW

yes
Nikon 1 J4 supports Wi-Fi. This feature is available on 47.8% of cameras.
Wi-Fi version
What it is: The specific generation of Wi-Fi standards supported (e.g., Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi 7), determining maximum speed and efficiency.
When it matters: When you have a high-speed router and want faster downloads with less congestion.

Importance: LOW

Wi-Fi 3 (802.11g)
Nikon 1 J4 uses Wi-Fi version Wi-Fi 3 (802.11g) which is newer than that of 52% of cameras and equal to that of 2.1% of cameras.
Bluetooth connectivity
What it is: Indicates whether the camera supports Bluetooth for pairing, remote control, or file transfer.
When it matters: When you want quick wireless pairing with a phone, remote control, or location syncing.

Importance: LOW

no
Nikon 1 J4 does not have Bluetooth. 22.7% of cameras support Bluetooth.
Bluetooth version
What it is: The Bluetooth version supported by the camera for wireless pairing and low-power connections.
When it matters: When you want more efficient wireless pairing, better range, or newer Bluetooth features.

Importance: LOW

N/A
USB Type-C
What it is: A modern, reversible connector used for charging, data transfer, and sometimes audio or video output.
When it matters: When you want a reversible cable that handles charging, data, and accessories universally.

Importance: LOW

no
Nikon 1 J4 does not include USB Type-C. 14.6% of cameras use USB-C.
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Nikon 1 J4 vs the average camera

  • Phase-detect AF for photos
    Nikon 1 J4 supports phase-detection autofocus for photos, the average camera does not.
    What it is: Autofocus technology that measures phase differences to lock focus quickly and accurately for still photography.
    When it matters: When you want faster and more reliable autofocus for still photos, especially with moving subjects.

    Importance: HIGH

    Nikon 1 J4 supports phase-detection autofocus for photos, the average camera does not.
  • 148 more AF points
    Nikon 1 J4 has more focus points than the average camera (171 vs 23). The average camera offers 23 focus points.
    What it is: The total number of selectable autofocus points available for positioning and tracking focus.
    When it matters: When you want more flexibility in placing focus precisely or tracking subjects across the frame.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: At least 200 points

    Nikon 1 J4 has more focus points than the average camera (171 vs 23). The average camera offers 23 focus points.171 vs 23
  • Supports slow-motion video
    Nikon 1 J4 supports slow-motion video, the average camera does not.
    Supports up to 1200 fps high-speed video.
    What it is: The ability to record at high frame rates so motion can be played back more slowly than real time.
    When it matters: When you want to emphasize fast action, movement details, or dramatic moments in playback.

    Importance: LOW

    Nikon 1 J4 supports slow-motion video, the average camera does not.
  • Has a touchscreen
    Nikon 1 J4 has a touchscreen, the average camera does not. 36.6% of cameras support touchscreen input.
    What it is: Indicates that the display acts as an input device, recognizing touch gestures.
    When it matters: When you interact with your device using intuitive taps and gestures.

    Importance: LOW

    Nikon 1 J4 has a touchscreen, the average camera does not. 36.6% of cameras support touchscreen input.
  • Phase-detect AF in video
    Nikon 1 J4 supports phase-detection autofocus in video, the average camera does not.
    What it is: Phase-detection autofocus support while recording video, helping the camera keep moving subjects sharp.
    When it matters: When you record moving subjects and want the camera to refocus smoothly and confidently during video.

    Importance: LOW

    Nikon 1 J4 supports phase-detection autofocus in video, the average camera does not.
  • Supports Wi-Fi connectivity
    Nikon 1 J4 supports Wi-Fi, the average camera does not. 47.8% of cameras support Wi-Fi.
    What it is: Indicates whether the camera has built-in Wi-Fi for image transfer, remote control, or network features.
    When it matters: When you want to transfer photos wirelessly, control the camera from a phone, or use supported network workflows.

    Importance: LOW

    Nikon 1 J4 supports Wi-Fi, the average camera does not. 47.8% of cameras support Wi-Fi.
  • Smartphone remote control
    Nikon 1 J4 supports smartphone remote control, the average camera does not. 46.2% of cameras support smartphone remote control.
    via Wireless Mobile Utility
    What it is: The ability to control the camera remotely from a smartphone app for shooting, settings, or file transfer.
    When it matters: When you shoot remotely, transfer files on location, or want to control the camera without touching it.

    Importance: LOW

    Nikon 1 J4 supports smartphone remote control, the average camera does not. 46.2% of cameras support smartphone remote control.
  • 41.3% lighter
    Nikon 1 J4 is lighter than the average camera (232 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.
    What it is: The total weight of the camera body, which affects comfort while carrying and shooting.
    When it matters: When you carry the camera all day, travel often, or prefer a lighter setup.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: 500 g or less

    Nikon 1 J4 is lighter than the average camera (232 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.232 g vs 395 g
  • Has a touchscreen
    Nikon 1 J4 has a touchscreen, the average camera does not. 36.6% of cameras support touchscreen input.
  • 41.3% lighter
    Nikon 1 J4 is lighter than the average camera (232 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.
  • 19.9 mm narrower
    Nikon 1 J4 is narrower than the average camera (100 mm vs 119.9 mm). The average camera has a width of 119.9 mm.
  • 17.5 mm thinner
    Nikon 1 J4 is thinner than the average camera (28.5 mm vs 46 mm). The average camera has a thickness of 46 mm.
  • 13.9 mm shorter body
    Nikon 1 J4 is shorter than the average camera (60 mm vs 73.9 mm). The average camera has a height of 73.9 mm.
  • 6,400 higher max ISO
    Nikon 1 J4 has a higher max ISO than the average camera (12,800 vs 6,400). The average camera reaches a max ISO of 6,400.
  • 2.2 MP higher resolution on the main camera
    Nikon 1 J4 has a higher main camera resolution than the average camera (18.4 MP vs 16.2 MP). The average camera has a main camera resolution of 16.2 MP.
  • Phase-detect AF for photos
    Nikon 1 J4 supports phase-detection autofocus for photos, the average camera does not.
  • 148 more AF points
    Nikon 1 J4 has more focus points than the average camera (171 vs 23). The average camera offers 23 focus points.
  • Supports touch autofocus
    Nikon 1 J4 supports touch autofocus, the average camera does not. 34.9% of cameras support touch autofocus.
  • 90 s longer maximum exposure
    Nikon 1 J4 supports a longer maximum exposure than the average camera (120 s vs 30 s). The average camera supports a longest shutter speed of 30 s.
  • Supports slow-motion video
    Nikon 1 J4 supports slow-motion video, the average camera does not.
  • Phase-detect AF in video
    Nikon 1 J4 supports phase-detection autofocus in video, the average camera does not.
  • Supports Wi-Fi connectivity
    Nikon 1 J4 supports Wi-Fi, the average camera does not. 47.8% of cameras support Wi-Fi.
  • Smartphone remote control
    Nikon 1 J4 supports smartphone remote control, the average camera does not. 46.2% of cameras support smartphone remote control.
  • No hot shoe
    Nikon 1 J4 does not have a hot shoe, the average camera does.
  • Smaller sensor
    Nikon 1 J4 has a smaller sensor than the average camera (1-inch vs APS-C).
  • Lower RAW bit depth
    Nikon 1 J4 supports lower RAW bit depth than the average camera (12-bit vs 14-bit). The average camera supports 14-bit RAW capture.
  • Lower DxOMark portrait score
    Nikon 1 J4 has a lower DxOMark portrait score than the average camera (20.8 vs 23.0). The average camera scores 23.0.
  • 20 points lower DxOMark sensor score
    Nikon 1 J4 has a lower DxOMark sensor score than the average camera (53 points vs 73 points). The average camera has a DxOMark sensor score of 73 points.
  • Lower DxOMark landscape score
    Nikon 1 J4 has a lower DxOMark landscape score than the average camera (10.7 vs 12.4). The average camera scores 12.4.
  • 416 points lower DxOMark Sports score
    Nikon 1 J4 has a lower DxOMark sports score than the average camera (426 points vs 842 points). The average camera has a DxOMark sports score of 842 points.
  • 0.82 µm smaller main-camera pixels
    Nikon 1 J4 has a lower main camera pixel size than the average camera (2.5 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average camera has a main camera pixel size of 3.34 µm.
  • No manual exposure control
    Nikon 1 J4 does not support manual exposure, the average camera does. 72% of cameras support manual exposure controls.
  • 110 mAh smaller battery capacity
    Nikon 1 J4 has a lower battery capacity than the average camera (1,010 mAh vs 1,120 mAh). The average camera has a battery capacity of 1,120 mAh.
  • 30 shots shorter battery life
    Nikon 1 J4 has shorter battery life than the average camera (300 shots vs 330 shots). The average camera delivers 330 shots per charge.
  • Smaller sensor
    Nikon 1 J4 has a smaller sensor than the average camera (1-inch vs APS-C).
    What it is: The sensor format value describes the physical light-collecting area.
    When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: Full frame or larger

    Nikon 1 J4 has a smaller sensor than the average camera (1-inch vs APS-C).1-inch vs APS-C
  • Lower RAW bit depth
    Nikon 1 J4 supports lower RAW bit depth than the average camera (12-bit vs 14-bit). The average camera supports 14-bit RAW capture.
    What it is: The number of bits used to encode color and tonal information in RAW files captured by the camera.
    When it matters: When you heavily edit RAW photos and want more tonal information for aggressive adjustments.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: At least 14-bit

    Nikon 1 J4 supports lower RAW bit depth than the average camera (12-bit vs 14-bit). The average camera supports 14-bit RAW capture.12-bit vs 14-bit
  • No hot shoe
    Nikon 1 J4 does not have a hot shoe, the average camera does.
    What it is: A mounting interface on top of the camera for attaching accessories such as flashes, triggers, or microphones.
    When it matters: When you want to mount an external flash, trigger, microphone, or other camera-top accessory.

    Importance: LOW

    Nikon 1 J4 does not have a hot shoe, the average camera does.
  • Lower DxOMark portrait score
    Nikon 1 J4 has a lower DxOMark portrait score than the average camera (20.8 vs 23.0). The average camera scores 23.0.
    What it is: The DxOMark portrait score, representing measured color depth performance of the sensor.
    When it matters: When accurate color depth and smooth tonal transitions matter for portraits or subtle color work.

    Importance: LOW

    Nikon 1 J4 has a lower DxOMark portrait score than the average camera (20.8 vs 23.0). The average camera scores 23.0.20.8 vs 23.0
  • 20 points lower DxOMark sensor score
    Nikon 1 J4 has a lower DxOMark sensor score than the average camera (53 points vs 73 points). The average camera has a DxOMark sensor score of 73 points.
    What it is: The overall DxOMark sensor rating, summarizing measured image quality performance in lab testing.
    When it matters: When you want a third-party benchmark to compare overall sensor image quality across different cameras.

    Importance: LOW

    Nikon 1 J4 has a lower DxOMark sensor score than the average camera (53 points vs 73 points). The average camera has a DxOMark sensor score of 73 points.53 points vs 73 points
  • Lower DxOMark landscape score
    Nikon 1 J4 has a lower DxOMark landscape score than the average camera (10.7 vs 12.4). The average camera scores 12.4.
    What it is: The DxOMark landscape score, representing the sensor’s measured dynamic range performance.
    When it matters: When you compare dynamic range and want stronger recovery of highlights and shadows in difficult scenes.

    Importance: LOW

    Nikon 1 J4 has a lower DxOMark landscape score than the average camera (10.7 vs 12.4). The average camera scores 12.4.10.7 vs 12.4
  • 416 points lower DxOMark Sports score
    Nikon 1 J4 has a lower DxOMark sports score than the average camera (426 points vs 842 points). The average camera has a DxOMark sports score of 842 points.
    What it is: The DxOMark low-light score, reflecting how well the sensor performs at higher sensitivities.
    When it matters: When low-light sensor performance is especially important for the way you shoot.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Nikon 1 J4 has a lower DxOMark sports score than the average camera (426 points vs 842 points). The average camera has a DxOMark sports score of 842 points.426 points vs 842 points
  • No manual exposure control
    Nikon 1 J4 does not support manual exposure, the average camera does. 72% of cameras support manual exposure controls.
    What it is: Gives the user control over the overall brightness of the image by adjusting exposure compensation values.
    When it matters: When the automatic settings make the image too bright or too dark for your taste.

    Importance: LOW

    Nikon 1 J4 does not support manual exposure, the average camera does. 72% of cameras support manual exposure controls.

Graphic comparison of Nikon 1 J4 and

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Third-party reviews

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

What customers like about Nikon 1 J4?

  • Extremely fast continuous shooting (up to 20 fps with autofocus, 60 fps without)
  • Impressive hybrid autofocus system with 171 focus areas
  • Compact, lightweight, and sleek aluminum body design
  • Responsive 3-inch touchscreen with an intuitive interface
  • Built-in Wi-Fi for easy photo sharing
  • Capable of high-speed video (up to 1200 fps at lower resolutions)

What customers dislike about Nikon 1 J4?

  • Relatively small 1-inch sensor results in subpar low-light performance
  • Aggressive noise reduction can smear fine details in images
  • Lack of physical controls; most settings require menu navigation
  • Fixed LCD screen does not tilt or articulate
  • Uses microSD cards instead of the standard full-size SD cards
  • No built-in electronic viewfinder (EVF) or accessory port for one

Expert reviews

E
ephotozine.com
30/06/2014

The ePHOTOzine review highlights the Nikon 1 J4 as an exceptionally fast, stylish, and compact mirrorless camera, praising its 20fps shooting with autofocus, 60fps burst mode, and responsive touchscreen. Key strengths include excellent portability with the 10-30mm kit lens and high-quality video capabilities. Conversely, the review identifies a slippery, low-grip aluminum body that...Read more

W
whatdigitalcamera.com
14/08/2014

The What Digital Camera review of the Nikon 1 J4 highlights the mirrorless camera's key strengths in speed, processing, and physical design, praising its highly refined, lightweight 192g aluminum body and rapid, 20 frames per second continuous shooting. Image quality is considered respectable at lower sensitivities, making it capable for fast-moving subjects. Conversely, the review...Read more

R
reviewed.com
18/07/2014

The Nikon 1 J4 ($599.95 MSRP) is a compact mirrorless interchangeable lens camera that serves as a user-friendly upgrade from a smartphone or point-and-shoot. It is built with an 18.4-megapixel CX-format (1-inch) sensor and an Exspeed 4A processor. This hardware allows the camera to achieve an industry-leading burst shooting speed of 60 frames per second at full resolution. The...Read more

R
richardhaw.com
28/03/2021

In his review, Richard Haw highlights the Nikon 1 J4 as a failed yet highly enjoyable mirrorless camera system, particularly when paired with manual vintage lenses like C-mount cine-lenses. He values the camera as an excellent tool for street photography due to its completely silent operation and minimalistic, compact design. While the small 1-inch CX sensor is often criticised for...Read more

N
neocamera.com
08/11/2014

The Nikon 1 J4 is a highly compact, mid-level mirrorless camera featuring an 18-megapixel high-speed CMOS sensor with a 2.7x crop factor and a fast hybrid autofocus system utilizing 105 phase-detect and 171 contrast-detect points. The camera excels in pure speed, offering a blazingly fast full-resolution continuous drive of up to 60 FPS with single-shot AF (or 20 FPS with continuous...Read more

D
dxomark.com
28/05/2014

The Nikon 1 J4 is an entry-level mirrorless camera that inherits several high-end features from its premium sibling, the 1 V3, including an 18-megapixel CX-format CMOS sensor without an anti-aliasing filter, an Expeed A4 processor, and a highly capable hybrid autofocus system boasting 171 AF points (with 105 phase-detection points). Priced at $599 with a 10-30mm kit lens, it stands...Read more

S
smallsensorphotography.com
01/01/2016

In this field review, Thomas Stirr evaluates his recently purchased Nikon 1 J4 kit bundled with the 1 Nikon 10-30 mm f/3.5-5.6 PD zoom lens during an overcast morning walk around Grimsby harbour. The pros of this specific kit primarily revolve around its economic value and practical utility. Purchased at a highly attractive price point, the camera is compact and integrates...Read more

T
techradar.com
11/07/2014

Nikon 1 J4 Review Summary The Nikon 1 J4 is a mid-range compact system camera that shares many advanced features with the higher-end V3 model, including an 18.4-megapixel CX-format (one-inch) sensor and a rapid Expeed 4a processing engine. It is equipped with a highly capable Hybrid Autofocusing system boasting 171 contrast-detect and 105 phase-detection points, enabling incredibly...Read more

T
trustedreviews.com
29/08/2014

The Trusted Reviews assessment of the Nikon 1 J4 highlights the camera as a small, well-made device featuring exceptionally fast autofocus and rapid shooting speeds, yet it is criticized for a user interface that relies too heavily on a fiddly, touchscreen-based menu system rather than dedicated physical controls. While praised for speed, the camera's 1-inch CX-format sensor...Read more

D
digitalkamera.de
04/11/2014

The Digitalkamera.de review highlights the Nikon 1 J4 as a sleek, highly capable entry-level model featuring an aluminum body, an responsive touchscreen, and a fast hybrid autofocus system. It praises the camera's exceptional speed, offering up to 20 fps continuous shooting with autofocus, complemented by the compact 10-30mm PD-Zoom lens. However, the review notes drawbacks,...Read more

C
chip.de
25/11/2014

Review Overview The Nikon 1 J4 is a mirrorless system camera (DSLM) that stands out for its blazing speed but offers only minor upgrades over its predecessors, making it a questionable upgrade for existing J-series owners. It features an upgraded 1-inch CX-sensor with 18 megapixels, which delivers sharp daylight images reaching up to 1,577 line pairs per picture height. The camera...Read more

D
dkamera.de
28/03/2015

Nikon 1 J4 Review Summary The Nikon 1 J4 is a highly compact, well-built entry-level mirrorless camera featuring a sleek metal body and an impressive hybrid autofocus system with 171 focus points. Its standout performance features include a rapid 0.12-second autofocus speed, a minimal 0.04-second shutter lag, and an exceptionally fast continuous shooting rate of 59.4 frames per...Read more

D
dkamera.de
28/03/2015

The dkamera.de review highlights the Nikon 1 J4 as a highly compact, lightweight mirrorless camera featuring a premium brushed-aluminium body that targets point-and-shoot casual photographers rather than professionals. Its standout strengths include a lightning-fast hybrid autofocus system with 171 focus points (including 105 phase-detection points) and an exceptional 3.0-inch,...Read more

D
dkamera.de
08/06/2016

The Nikon 1 J4 features a redesigned camera body made of brushed aluminum, opting for a modern, angular, and elegant look rather than the rounded edges of its predecessor, the J3. On the pro side, the camera offers separate shutter buttons for photos and videos, an integrated pop-up flash, and built-in Wi-Fi functionality allowing wireless image transfer and remote shutter...Read more

L
loewenste.in
27/11/2014

The Nikon 1 J4 is a highly compact system camera that successfully merges the portable convenience of a point-and-shoot camera with the benefits of interchangeable lenses. According to Patrick Löwenstein's review, its primary strengths lie in its extremely pocketable dimensions (60×99.5×28.5 mm), lightweight build (232g), and solid daytime image quality that delivers highly...Read more

D
dkamera.de
28/03/2015

The Nikon 1 J4 is a highly compact, aluminum-bodied mirrorless camera offering exceptional speed, featuring a hybrid autofocus system with 105 phase-detection points and 20 frames per second continuous shooting with tracking. Driven by the EXPEED 4A processor, it boasts a responsive 3-inch touchscreen, making it an efficient choice for quick, point-and-shoot photography. However,...Read more

L
lesnumeriques.com
01/06/2016

Overview of the Nikon 1 J4 Review The Nikon 1 J4 is a compact, mirrorless camera that receives a 3 out of 5 rating for its mix of user-friendly upgrades and design changes. Built with a sleek aluminum body that replaces the plastic frame of its predecessor, the J4 feels robust and minimalist. Key improvements include a highly responsive 7.5 cm touchscreen display, built-in Wi-Fi for...Read more

0
01net.com
30/07/2014

The 01net review characterises the Nikon 1 J4 as a compact, rapid mirrorless camera that ultimately struggles to justify its price against more capable competitors. On the positive side, the review praises the device's exceptional autofocus speed and stellar burst-shooting capabilities, which remain the hallmark of the Nikon 1 series. Additionally, it benefits from a highly...Read more

C
camerarace.com
Not specified

The Nikon 1 J4 earns an overall score of 55/100, characterized by its compact, lightweight design (232g) and exceptional speed, including a highly effective hybrid autofocus system for tracking fast subjects. It is praised for its high-speed performance, scoring well in street and everyday photography, with the added benefit of built-in Wi-Fi. Conversely, the camera is limited by a...Read more

F
fotocamerapro.it
28/07/2015

The Nikon 1 J4 is a highly compact and lightweight mirrorless camera designed primarily for point-and-shoot automatic photography, making it ideal for travel and quick everyday moments. It features an 18.4-megapixel CX-format CMOS sensor and uses an exceptionally fast hybrid autofocus system with 171 focus areas to easily track moving subjects. The camera offers an impressive...Read more

O
ohmyfoodness.nl
03/02/2015

In this gadget review, Sabine provides her first-hand experience with the Nikon 1 J4, a portable mirrorless system camera that she thoroughly tested during travel and daily activities. Seeking a lightweight alternative to her heavy DSLR camera that wouldn't compromise on photo quality, she found the compact camera to be an exceptional travel companion. She highlighted several key...Read more

K
kamera-express.nl
(Date not listed)

The Nikon 1 J4 with 10-30mm Powerzoom lens, available as an outlet item at ⁠Kamera Express, is characterized as a fast, lightweight, and robust mirrorless camera featuring an 18.4-megapixel CX-format sensor. Key strengths include a 171-point hybrid autofocus system, responsive touchscreen, built-in Wi-Fi, and a versatile power-zoom kit lens. Conversely, the small 1-inch sensor...Read more

Video reviews

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