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Nikon COOLPIX L820 Review | 108 Data compared

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  • Avg. price: ~£45
  • Sensor size: 1/2.3"
  • Lens mount: N/A
  • Main camera pixel size: 1.34 µm
  • Weight: 470 g
  • Battery life (CIPA): 320 shots

Nikon COOLPIX L820 review. Compare 108 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among cameras and if it is worth buying.

5.0

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%

4.5

Technical Score

10.0%

9.0

User score

Good
4.5

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%

5.1

Sensor & Image

25.0%

4.1

Photo Features

18.0%

4.4

Video & Audio

14.0%

4.6

Display & Design

8.0%

5.1

Battery & Power

7.0%

2.8

Connectivity & Storage

Poor
9.0

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%

8.6

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.3
(614)
amazon
4.2
(509)
amazon
4.3
(285)
amazon
3.5
(11)
amazon
4.0
(4)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.4
(1052)
Amazon_logo.png
3.8
(57)
Amazon_logo.png
3.6
(16)
Amazon_logo.png
3.4
(11)

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

Exceptional
  • 3.1
    Professional photography

    Score components:

    25.0%

    5.8

    Sensor size

    20.0%

    5.6

    Main camera megapixels

    20.0%

    1.0

    Dual card slots

    15.0%

    1.0

    N. of focus points

    10.0%

    1.0

    RAW photo capture

    10.0%

    1.0

    Phase-detection autofocus (photos)

  • 4.0
    Travel

    Score components:

    35.0%

    6.6

    Weight

    30.0%

    4.3

    Battery life (CIPA)

    20.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    15.0%

    1.0

    GPS

  • 7.3
    Beginners

    Score components:

    30.0%

    10

    Price

    20.0%

    6.6

    Weight

    20.0%

    10

    AF tracking

    20.0%

    4.3

    Battery life (CIPA)

    10.0%

    1.0

    Touchscreen

  • 3.6
    Landscape photography

    Score components:

    30.0%

    5.6

    Main camera megapixels

    25.0%

    5.8

    Sensor size

    20.0%

    1.3

    Main camera pixel size

    15.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    10.0%

    1.0

    RAW photo capture

  • 4.7
    Street photography

    Score components:

    30.0%

    6.6

    Weight

    25.0%

    3.5

    Thickness

    20.0%

    ?

    AF low-light sensitivity

    15.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    10.0%

    1.0

    Eye detection AF (human)

  • 3.2
    Portraits

    Score components:

    30.0%

    5.8

    Sensor size

    25.0%

    1.3

    Main camera pixel size

    20.0%

    1.0

    Eye detection AF (human)

    15.0%

    5.6

    Main camera megapixels

    10.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

  • 3.9
    Hiking

    Score components:

    30.0%

    6.6

    Weight

    25.0%

    4.3

    Battery life (CIPA)

    20.0%

    2.8

    Min operating temperature

    15.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    10.0%

    1.0

    GPS

  • nikon-coolpix-l820
nikon-coolpix-l820

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 Coolpix L820 is an entry-level bridge camera featuring a 16-megapixel back-illuminated CMOS sensor and a versatile 30x optical zoom NIKKOR lens, covering a 35mm equivalent range of 22.5–675mm with an aperture of f/3.0–5.8. Key characteristics include lens-shift Vibration Reduction (VR), 1080p Full HD video recording with stereo sound, and a high-resolution 3-inch 921k-dot LCD screen. Its primary pros are its impressive zoom range for its price, ease of use through automated scene modes, and the convenience of being powered by four standard AA batteries. However, its notable cons include the lack of manual exposure controls (PASM modes), the absence of RAW file support or a viewfinder, and slow autofocus performance when fully zoomed or in low-light conditions.

Technical Specifications of Nikon COOLPIX L820

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%

5.1

Sensor & Image

25.0%

4.1

Photo Features

18.0%

4.4

Video & Audio

14.0%

4.6

Display & Design

8.0%

5.1

Battery & Power

7.0%

2.8

Connectivity & Storage

4.5
Nikon COOLPIX L820 has a technical score of 4.49 points, which is lower than 70.8% 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%

8.6

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.3
(614)
amazon
4.2
(509)
amazon
4.3
(285)
amazon
3.5
(11)
amazon
4.0
(4)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.4
(1052)
Amazon_logo.png
3.8
(57)
Amazon_logo.png
3.6
(16)
Amazon_logo.png
3.4
(11)

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

9.0
Nikon COOLPIX L820 has a user score of 9.05 points, which is higher than 87.5% 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.
10
Nikon COOLPIX L820 has a popularity of 10 points, which is higher than 66.1% 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%

5.0

Overall score

40.0%

10

Price

6.5
Nikon COOLPIX L820 has a quality-to-price ratio of 6.5 points, which is higher than 65.2% 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

1/2.3"
Nikon COOLPIX L820 uses a sensor classified as 1/2.3"; it is smaller than the sensor in 60.5% of cameras and the same size as the sensor in 38.1% 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

16 MP
Nikon COOLPIX L820 has a main camera resolution of 16 MP, which is lower than that of 61.8% of cameras and equal to that of 10.2% 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

1.34 µm
Nikon COOLPIX L820 has a main camera pixel size of 1.34 µm which is smaller than in 74.1% of cameras and equal to the size in 14% 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

125
Nikon COOLPIX L820 has a base ISO of 125 which is higher than that of 72.4% of cameras and equal to that of 8.1% 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

3,200
Nikon COOLPIX L820 reaches a maximum sensitivity of ISO 3,200, which is lower than that of 62.8% of cameras and equal to that of 22.7% of cameras.
Show more
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

N/A
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 COOLPIX L820 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

1
Nikon COOLPIX L820 has 1 focus points, fewer than the number offered by 95.4% of cameras and equal to the number offered by 4.6% 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

no
Nikon COOLPIX L820 does not support phase-detection autofocus for photos. 37.5% 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 COOLPIX L820 supports AF tracking. This feature is available on 88% of cameras.
Show more
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 COOLPIX L820 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

15 Mbps
Nikon COOLPIX L820 has a video bitrate of 15 Mbps which is lower than that of 82.3% of cameras and equal to that of 3.5% of cameras.
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 COOLPIX L820 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 COOLPIX L820 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
Show more
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

bridge
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

470 g
Nikon COOLPIX L820 weighs 470 g which is heavier than 58.5% of cameras and equal to the weight of 0.1% 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

111 mm
Nikon COOLPIX L820 has a width of 111 mm which is narrower than 63.6% of cameras and equal to that of 0.6% 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

76.3 mm
Nikon COOLPIX L820 has a height of 76.3 mm which is taller than 52.3% of cameras and equal to that of 0.2% 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

84.5 mm
Nikon COOLPIX L820 has a thickness of 84.5 mm which is thicker than 83.5% of cameras and equal to that of 0.4% of cameras.
Show more
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

320 shots
Nikon COOLPIX L820 has a CIPA-rated battery life of 320 shots, which is shorter than that of 52.4% of cameras and equal to that of 2.3% of cameras.
870 with lithium AA.
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

N/A
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 COOLPIX L820 has a removable battery, and 98.7% of cameras include one.
Uses 4x AA batteries.
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 COOLPIX L820 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

no
Nikon COOLPIX L820 does not support Wi-Fi. 47.9% of cameras include this feature.
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

N/A
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 COOLPIX L820 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 COOLPIX L820 does not include USB Type-C. 14.6% of cameras use USB-C.
Show more

Nikon COOLPIX L820 vs the average camera

  • Uses a BSI sensor
    Nikon COOLPIX L820 uses a BSI sensor, the average camera does not. 34.8% of cameras use a BSI sensor.
    What it is: Indicates the use of a Back-Side Illuminated sensor, which arranges the wiring behind the light-receiving surface to improve low-light sensitivity.
    When it matters: When you take photos in dim environments and need better light sensitivity.

    Importance: LOW

    Nikon COOLPIX L820 uses a BSI sensor, the average camera does not. 34.8% of cameras use a BSI sensor.
  • Supports slow-motion video
    Nikon COOLPIX L820 supports slow-motion video, the average camera does not.
    Supports up to 240 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 COOLPIX L820 supports slow-motion video, the average camera does not.
  • 2.3 fps faster mechanical burst
    Nikon COOLPIX L820 has a faster mechanical burst rate than the average camera (8 fps vs 5.7 fps). The average camera shoots at 5.7 fps.
    What it is: The maximum burst rate the camera can achieve using its mechanical shutter, measured in frames per second.
    When it matters: When you photograph sports, wildlife, or action and want more chances to catch the exact moment.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: At least 10 fps

    Nikon COOLPIX L820 has a faster mechanical burst rate than the average camera (8 fps vs 5.7 fps). The average camera shoots at 5.7 fps.8 fps vs 5.7 fps
  • 0.07 GB more storage
    Nikon COOLPIX L820 has a higher internal storage than the average camera (0.1 GB vs 0 GB). The average camera offers 0 GB of internal storage.
    What it is: The total built-in space available for apps, media, and files.
    When it matters: When you keep large libraries of photos, videos, and apps directly on your device.

    Importance: LOW

    Nikon COOLPIX L820 has a higher internal storage than the average camera (0.1 GB vs 0 GB). The average camera offers 0 GB of internal storage.0.065 GB vs 0 GB
  • 13.1% higher user score
    Nikon COOLPIX L820 has a higher user score than the average camera (9.05 vs 8.000).
    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.
    Nikon COOLPIX L820 has a higher user score than the average camera (9.05 vs 8.000).9.05 vs 8
  • 10x more popular
    Nikon COOLPIX L820 is more popular than the average camera (10.00 vs 1.000).
    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.
    Nikon COOLPIX L820 is more popular than the average camera (10.00 vs 1.000).10 vs 1
  • 6.44x cheaper
    Nikon COOLPIX L820 is cheaper than the average camera (£45 vs £290).
    Nikon COOLPIX L820 is cheaper than the average camera (£45 vs £290).£45 vs £290
  • Uses a BSI sensor
    Nikon COOLPIX L820 uses a BSI sensor, the average camera does not. 34.8% of cameras use a BSI sensor.
  • 2.3 fps faster mechanical burst
    Nikon COOLPIX L820 has a faster mechanical burst rate than the average camera (8 fps vs 5.7 fps). The average camera shoots at 5.7 fps.
  • Supports slow-motion video
    Nikon COOLPIX L820 supports slow-motion video, the average camera does not.
  • 0.07 GB more storage
    Nikon COOLPIX L820 has a higher internal storage than the average camera (0.1 GB vs 0 GB). The average camera offers 0 GB of internal storage.

Total
Overall
Sensor & Image
Photo Features
Video & Audio
Connectivity & Storage
  • No hot shoe
    Nikon COOLPIX L820 does not have a hot shoe, the average camera does.
  • 38.5 mm thicker
    Nikon COOLPIX L820 is thicker than the average camera (84.5 mm vs 46 mm). The average camera has a thickness of 46 mm.
  • 19% heavier
    Nikon COOLPIX L820 is heavier than the average camera (470 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.
  • Smaller sensor
    Nikon COOLPIX L820 has a smaller sensor than the average camera (1/2.3" vs APS-C).
  • 2 µm smaller main-camera pixels
    Nikon COOLPIX L820 has a lower main camera pixel size than the average camera (1.3 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average camera has a main camera pixel size of 3.34 µm.
  • 22,100 lower expanded ISO
    Nikon COOLPIX L820 has a lower expanded ISO than the average camera (3,200 vs 25,300). The average camera reaches an expanded ISO of 25,300.
  • 0.2 MP lower resolution on the main camera
    Nikon COOLPIX L820 has a lower main camera resolution than the average camera (16 MP vs 16.2 MP). The average camera has a main camera resolution of 16.2 MP.
  • 3,200 lower max ISO
    Nikon COOLPIX L820 has a lower max ISO than the average camera (3,200 vs 6,400). The average camera reaches a max ISO of 6,400.
  • 22 fewer AF points
    Nikon COOLPIX L820 has fewer focus points than the average camera (1 vs 23). The average camera offers 23 focus points.
  • No RAW photo capture
    Nikon COOLPIX L820 does not support RAW photo capture, the average camera does. 62.8% of cameras support RAW formats.
  • No manual focus mode
    Nikon COOLPIX L820 does not support manual focus, the average camera does. 71.7% of cameras include a manual focus mode.
  • No manual exposure control
    Nikon COOLPIX L820 does not support manual exposure, the average camera does. 72% of cameras support manual exposure controls.
  • 26 s shorter maximum exposure
    Nikon COOLPIX L820 supports a shorter maximum exposure than the average camera (4 s vs 30 s). The average camera supports a longest shutter speed of 30 s.
  • 50% lower video bitrate
    Nikon COOLPIX L820 has a lower video bitrate than the average camera (15 Mbps vs 30 Mbps). The average camera records at 30 Mbps.
  • Smaller sensor
    Nikon COOLPIX L820 has a smaller sensor than the average camera (1/2.3" 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 COOLPIX L820 has a smaller sensor than the average camera (1/2.3" vs APS-C).1/2.3" vs APS-C
  • 2 µm smaller main-camera pixels
    Nikon COOLPIX L820 has a lower main camera pixel size than the average camera (1.3 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average camera has a main camera pixel size of 3.34 µm.
    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

    Nikon COOLPIX L820 has a lower main camera pixel size than the average camera (1.3 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average camera has a main camera pixel size of 3.34 µm.1.34 µm vs 3.34 µm
  • No hot shoe
    Nikon COOLPIX L820 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 COOLPIX L820 does not have a hot shoe, the average camera does.
  • 22 fewer AF points
    Nikon COOLPIX L820 has fewer focus points than the average camera (1 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 COOLPIX L820 has fewer focus points than the average camera (1 vs 23). The average camera offers 23 focus points.1 vs 23
  • No RAW photo capture
    Nikon COOLPIX L820 does not support RAW photo capture, the average camera does. 62.8% of cameras support RAW formats.
    What it is: The ability to save images in an uncompressed RAW format, preserving all sensor data for advanced post-processing.
    When it matters: When you plan to edit your photos professionally and need the most data possible.

    Importance: LOW

    Nikon COOLPIX L820 does not support RAW photo capture, the average camera does. 62.8% of cameras support RAW formats.
  • 22,100 lower expanded ISO
    Nikon COOLPIX L820 has a lower expanded ISO than the average camera (3,200 vs 25,300). The average camera reaches an expanded ISO of 25,300.
    What it is: The highest extended ISO setting available beyond the standard sensitivity range of the sensor.
    When it matters: When you shoot in very dark conditions and want the option to push sensitivity beyond the normal ISO range.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Nikon COOLPIX L820 has a lower expanded ISO than the average camera (3,200 vs 25,300). The average camera reaches an expanded ISO of 25,300.3,200 vs 25,300
  • 50% lower video bitrate
    Nikon COOLPIX L820 has a lower video bitrate than the average camera (15 Mbps vs 30 Mbps). The average camera records at 30 Mbps.
    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

    Nikon COOLPIX L820 has a lower video bitrate than the average camera (15 Mbps vs 30 Mbps). The average camera records at 30 Mbps.15 Mbps vs 30 Mbps
  • 0.2 MP lower resolution on the main camera
    Nikon COOLPIX L820 has a lower main camera resolution than the average camera (16 MP vs 16.2 MP). The average camera has a main camera resolution of 16.2 MP.
    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

    Nikon COOLPIX L820 has a lower main camera resolution than the average camera (16 MP vs 16.2 MP). The average camera has a main camera resolution of 16.2 MP.16 MP vs 16.2 MP
Total
Display & Design
Sensor & Image
Photo Features
Video & Audio

Graphic comparison of Nikon COOLPIX L820 and

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom
amazon
4.3
614 Reviews
amazon
4.2
509 Reviews
amazon
4.3
285 Reviews
amazon
3.5
11 Reviews
amazon
4.0
4 Reviews
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.4
1052 Reviews
Amazon_logo.png
3.8
57 Reviews
Amazon_logo.png
3.6
16 Reviews
Amazon_logo.png
3.4
11 Reviews

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

What customers like about Nikon COOLPIX L820?

  • High-quality 30x optical zoom lens that is great for distance
  • Uses AA batteries, making it convenient to find replacements while traveling
  • Excellent value for the price, offering features typically found in more expensive models
  • Simple and easy to use, ideal for beginners or casual photographers
  • Good quality 1080p Full HD video recording with stereo sound
  • Effective vibration reduction/image stabilization for handheld shots
  • Impressive wide-angle (22.5mm) capability for landscape photography

What customers dislike about Nikon COOLPIX L820?

  • Autofocus can be slow, especially in low light or when fully zoomed in
  • Struggles with image noise and loss of detail in low-light conditions
  • Lacks an optical viewfinder or electronic viewfinder (EVF), making the screen hard to see in bright sun
  • Bulkier and heavier than many standard compact cameras
  • No manual controls for aperture or shutter speed; largely 'point-and-shoot' only
  • Plastic exterior feel may seem less durable or premium to some users
  • The screen is fixed and does not tilt or articulate

Expert reviews

E
ephotozine.com
09/05/2013
Nikon Coolpix L820 Review | ePHOTOzine

The Nikon Coolpix L820 is identified as a capable budget bridge camera featuring a versatile 30x optical zoom lens (22.5mm ultra-wide) and an 8 fps continuous shooting mode. It delivers good overall image quality with a 16-megapixel sensor, 1080p HD video recording, a high-resolution 3-inch LCD screen, and excellent battery life using AA batteries. Key drawbacks highlighted include...Read more

C
cnet.com
18/09/2013
Nikon Coolpix L820 review: 30x zoom on the cheap - CNET

The Nikon Coolpix L830 is an affordable, user-friendly 34x long-zoom camera designed primarily for automated shooting without overwhelming the user with complex features. Upgraded from its predecessor with a sharp 3-inch tilting LCD screen and an extended focal range reaching up to 765mm (or 1,530mm with Dynamic Fine Zoom), it serves as a highly capable daylight point-and-shoot. Its...Read more

C
cameralabs.com
28/10/2013
Nikon COOLPIX L820 review - Cameralabs

The Nikon COOLPIX L820 is an affordable, beginner-friendly bridge-style super-zoom camera that upgrades its predecessor with a 16-megapixel back-illuminated CMOS sensor, a wider sensitivity range (125 to 3200 ISO), and Full HD 1080p30 video recording. It is highly praised for its very capable 30x stabilized optical zoom lens, which offers an impressive, class-leading 22.5mm...Read more

I
installornot.com
12/06/2013
Nikon Coolpix L820 Review - Install or Not

The Nikon Coolpix L820 is a mid-range superzoom camera praised for delivering high-end performance and an excellent beginner-friendly experience without overwhelming the user with complex manual settings. Built with a 16-megapixel back-illuminated CMOS sensor and a massive 30x optical zoom lens, it excels at capturing highly detailed landscape and macro shots down to a 1cm focusing...Read more

I
imaging-resource.com
28/01/2013
Nikon L820 Review - Specifications - Imaging Resource

The Imaging Resource Review shows that the Nikon Coolpix L820 is a mid-sized bridge camera built for people who want huge zoom power without a heavy price tag. It features a sharp 16.1-megapixel CMOS sensor and a massive 30x optical zoom lens, which covers a wide focal range from 23mm up to 675mm. The camera is excellent for capturing distant subjects and recording 1080p Full HD...Read more

D
dkamera.de
29/01/2013
Nikon Coolpix L820 Review - dkamera.de

The dkamera.de review highlights the Nikon Coolpix L820 as a capable entry-level bridge camera featuring a 15.9-megapixel CMOS sensor and a versatile 30x optical zoom lens (22.5-675mm equivalent) with impressive edge-to-edge sharpness. Key performance advantages include effective image stabilization, rapid 0.11-second autofocus, high-speed 8.3 fps shooting, and sharp Full HD video...Read more

(Translated)Show original
C
chip.de
31/05/2013
Nikon Coolpix L820 (Digital Camera) Review - CHIP

The Nikon Coolpix L820 is a user-friendly bridge camera designed primarily for photography beginners and casual users who prefer an uncomplicated experience. It features a powerful 30x optical zoom lens spanning a 22.5mm to 675mm equivalent range, making it highly versatile for various shooting scenarios. A major standout feature is its 3-inch display, which boasts a sharp...Read more

(Translated)Show original
C
connect-living.de
15/05/2013
Nikon Coolpix L820 review - connect-living", "Nikon Coolpix L820 tested - connect-living

The connect-living review concludes that the Nikon Coolpix L820 is an excellent, budget-friendly bridge camera tailored for beginners looking to upgrade from smartphone or pocket photography. Priced at an MSRP of 250 Euros, this 470-gram device features a plastic body, a heavily rubberised grip for steady handling, and a highly intuitive, spartan menu layout that avoids overwhelming...Read more

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C
camerarace.com
01/04/2013
Nikon Coolpix L820 - Review and Specifications - Camerarace

The Camerarace review rates the Nikon Coolpix L820 as a highly portable but underperforming bridge camera, giving it a low overall score of 19/100. Pros include its compact, lightweight design (470g) for easy handling and a clear 3-inch LCD screen for, but performance is limited by poor image quality, slow speeds, and a lack of tropicalization. Technically, the camera scores below...Read more

(Translated)Show original
N
nikonistas.com
31/05/2020
In-depth review of the Nikon COOLPIX L820", "Detailed review of the Nikon COOLPIX L820

The Nikon COOLPIX L820 is a 16-megapixel compact camera from Nikon's Life series that balances a user-friendly, classic design with a highly versatile 30x NIKKOR optical zoom lens (covering a 22.5–675 mm equivalent range). Key performance highlights include a retroilluminated CMOS sensor paired with an EXPEED C2 processor for fast, sharp imaging in various lighting conditions,...Read more

(Translated)Show original

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