Compare Prices : Nikon Coolpix L12

Review summary: Nikon's 7.1-megapixel Coolpix L12 tops Nikon's 'lifestyle' range and features Vibration Reduction, Face Detection and a 3x zoom.

Pros: ISO range, Vibration Reduction, design, muppet-proof

Cons: Writing speed, no manual ISO adjustment, noise

Verdict: This is a great camera for someone who doesn't want the hassle of reading manuals, or full manual control. It is intuitive and user friendly and at a very reasonable price.

Pros: Good photo quality in adequate lighting (but see issues below) ; Optical image stabilization for very little money ; Large 2.5" LCD ; Powerful flash ; redeye is well-controlled ; In-camera help system ; Handy D-Lighting and Best Shot Selector features ...

Cons: Photos are on the soft side ; some corner blurriness and vignetting ; Since ISO is automatic, photos can be noisier than desired ; No manual controls (save for white balance) ; Audio/video sync problem in movie mode ; Poor low light focusing (despite ...

Verdict: The Nikon Coolpix L12 is one of a very select group of entry-level cameras to offer image stabilization for under $200. Its closest competitor is probably the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LS75 which, up until recently, I didn't even think they sold in the U.S. ...

Pros: Image stabilisation, low ISO image quality, face detection AF

Cons: No manual controls, no control over ISO settings, very slow flash recycle, sluggish performance overall, no optical viewfinder, Low resolution LCD suffers flaring in bright conditions.

Verdict: Sluggish performance and with no way to control the ISO it means it just does not cut the mustard

Review summary: Can this compact impress?

Pros: Image stabilisation, low ISO image quality, face detection AF

Cons: No manual controls, no control over ISO settings, very slow flash recycle, sluggish performance overall, no optical viewfinder, Low resolution LCD suffers flaring in bright conditions.

Verdict: Okay, so this is not an expensive digital camera and while it is bland in terms of styling, it still boasts a couple of standout features particularly at this £150 (all but a penny) price point.