The Nikon 1 lenses are fantastic. You will be amazed at how much more a 1 inch sensor can do over the P&S. I've printed (and sold) some 11x14's from the J3. You'll have much more data to work with in post. When I worked in post with smaller sensors like the Canon G12 (an excellent P&S), it felt like the image was falling apart. The only frustration I've had with Nikon 1 bodies is no ISO selection between 400 and 800. 800 on any smaller sensor is pushing it.
Nikon VS Nikon
- Thread starter Scott Murray
- Start date
Two similar pocketable cameras with so many differences.
I chose the Coolpix A because I already have it. The two big reasons are the sensor size which performs much better on low light high ISO conditions, similar to your D7000 and the ability to add your current Nikon flash.
These were my requirements since most point and shoot cameras are just horrible once they pass ISO 400. ISO 3200 with the Coolpix A still looks good to me.
For me, there's no comparison.
| [h=3]Advantages of the Nikon Coolpix A[/h] | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Much better image quality | 80.0 | vs | 51.0 |
| Around 60% better image quality | |
| More dynamic range | 13.8 EV | vs | 10.9 EV |
| 2.9 f-stops more dynamic range | |
| Supports 24p | Yes | vs | No |
| Get that real film feel | |
| Better color depth | 23.4 bits | vs | 20.2 bits |
| Distinguishes 3.2 more bits of color | |
| Significantly larger sensor | APS-C 23.6x15.7mm | vs | Nikon CX 13.2x8.8mm |
| More than 3x larger sensor | |
| Lower noise at high ISO | 1,164 ISO | vs | 428 ISO |
| The Coolpix A has excellent image quality 1.4 f-stops higher ISO than the AW1 | |
| Higher true resolution | 16.1 MP | vs | 14.2 MP |
| Capture more than 10% more detail in your photos | |
| Supports an external flash | Yes | vs | No |
| An external flash often produces better looking flash images | |
| Better boost ISO | 25,600 ISO | vs | 6,400 ISO |
| The Coolpix A's boost ISO is 2 f-stops better |
sonicbuffalo_RIP
Senior Member
I had already voted for the Coolpix A, and after looking at Ted's comparison table, there's more than enough reasons to go with it. The ONLY reason I might consider the other camera is for underwater capability. That being said, I would break free of Nikon and go with a NEX Sony. They take amazing pictures. Just saying.
Scott Murray
Senior Member
Another few hours of researching and watching videos today 
Scott Murray
Senior Member
Possibly, I know I will make a decision by Tuesday night.
You can't beat the sensor in the Coolpix A for sure. I would only get the nikon 1 if you are ok with ISO of 400 or less.The only advantage of the Nikon 1 system to me is interchangeable lenses. The new 70-300 has a view of 810mm. Here is a shot from my J3 with the lowly 30-110 (297mm view) this is about a 100% crop I believe. morning Moon,
Scott Murray
Senior Member
Thanks everyone for the input and poll votes I am leaning towards the AW1 due to its robust build (stainless steel body) and the water proofness of it. I may also look at another light weight camera after I get back from Bali. I will be handling one Tuesday and will go from there.