Camera Test: Nikon Coolpix P5000

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Imaging: 10.4MP (effective) CCD captures 10.1MP images (3648x2736).
Storage: 21MB internal memory plus SD/SDHC card slot. Stores JPEGs.
Burst rate: Up to 6 Fine-quality JPEGs at 1 fps (tested).
Video: 640x480 at 30 fps with mono sound.
AF system: TTL phase detection system with 9 (autoselect) or 99 (user-selected) AF zones; selected zone is highlighted on LCD monitor. Single-shot and continuous AF. Cancelable AF-assist lamp.
Shutter speeds: 1/2000 to 8 sec.
Metering: 256-segment TTL with Matrix evaluative, centerweighted, and spotmetering. Spot zone can be coupled to any AF area. EV -1 to 17.5 (at ISO 100).
ISO range: 100 to 1600 in 1-EV increments, plus ISO 64 and 2000. ISO 3200 available at 5MP.
Flash: Built-in with i-TTL autoflash, GN 25 (ISO 100, feet). Dedicated hot-shoe compatible with Nikon Speedlights SB-400, SB-600, SB-800.
Viewfinder: Optical zoom viewfinder.
LCD: 2.5-in. TFT with 230,000-pixel resolution.
Output: Hi-Speed USB 2.0 and video.
Battery: EN-EL5 Li-ion rechargeable; 250 shots per charge (CIPA rating, 50% with flash).
Size/weight: 3.9x2.5x1.6 in.; 8.1 oz with card and battery.
Street price: $350.
For info: www.nikonusa.com.

COMPETITIVE SET

•Canon PowerShot G7 ($467, street): Bigger, sturdier, pricier, but a toss-up in image quality -- slightly better noise control at ISO 400, but worse noise than the Nikon above that. The P5000 has better resolution at high ISOs. The G7 has Image Stabilization, plus a longer-range (6X) zoom.

• Fujifilm FinePix E900 ($240, street): Has no image stabilization, a more point-and-shooty feel, and a smaller (2-in.) LCD monitor. But the 9MP Fuji has Excellent resolution, with little resolution loss at high ISOs, and much better noise control than the Canon and Nikon, plus RAW capture.

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