Nikon 1 S2 Review | 108 Data compared

of the Nikon 1 S2 The Nikon 1 S2 is a compact, user-friendly 14.3-megapixel hybrid camera designed for non-technical users and smartphone upgraders, but it suffers from artificial limitations imposed to distinguish it from the higher-end J4 model. On the positive side, the camera features an elegant design, good build quality, and outstanding responsiveness powered by its Expeed 4A processor. It boasts an impressive continuous shooting burst rate ranging from 5 to 60 frames per second, supports RAW format in burst mode, and provides rich video features with sharp Full HD output and crisp stereo sound. Additionally, its 11-27.5mm kit lens delivers excellent sharpness from the center to the edges of the frame. However, the camera is severely held back by several notable drawbacks, particularly its lack of a touchscreen and Wi-Fi connectivity. Navigating the interface feels clunky because the menus are visually optimized for touch but forced onto physical buttons. On the hardware side, the camera relies on a non-motorized kit lens, requires a microSD card rather than standard SD, and suffers from poor battery life. Furthermore, there is...

Direct Review Summary The TestMateriel summary, which features expert insights from Les Numeriques, awards the Nikon 1 S2 a modest score of 6.0 out of 10. Released in the summer of 2014 as the entry-level successor to the S1, this mirrorless camera upgrades its hardware with a 14.3-megapixel CX-format CMOS sensor and an Expeed 4A processor. The camera is tailored primarily toward casual, non-technical photographers, emphasizing a streamlined design that deliberately strips away complex manual controls in favor of accessibility. Pros and Cons Pros: The camera features a smooth, minimalist, and sleek body devoid of intimidating buttons, focusing purely on essentials like dedicated photo and video shutters. It also integrates creative filters and an educational setup using live-preview icons to clearly demonstrate how shutter speed, aperture, and ISO alter an image. Cons: Despite being a pleasant device to handle, the reviewer explicitly notes that the camera is "totally (and artificially) castrated" by the absolute lack of physical mode dials and shortcut options. This restrictive design heavily limits advanced users who prefer fast, tactical adjustments over simple point-and-shoot operation.

The Nikon 1 S2, scoring 52/100, is a compact, 190-gram mirrorless camera designed for extreme speed and portability. Its standout pros include a high-performing autofocus system, a 74/100 speed rating for action shots, and a very small, lightweight design ideal for street photography. Conversely, the review highlights significant cons, including poor image quality (39/100) from its small 1-inch sensor, a lack of weather-sealing limiting versatility, and low battery life of 270 shots. The camera is noted for below-average operational comfort and is best suited for casual, budget-conscious users rather than professionals.