Showdown Of Superzooms: Nikon Coolpix B700 Vs Panasonic Lumix Dc-fz82 – Which One Reigns Supreme?

The Nikon Coolpix B700 and Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ82 are two of the most popular bridge cameras on the market, offering a versatile range of features and capabilities that cater to the needs of nature and wildlife photographers. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key differences and similarities between these two cameras to help you make an informed decision about which one is the best fit for your photography needs.

Build and Design:

Starting with the build and design, both cameras feature a bridge-style body that combines the portability of a compact camera with the versatility of a DSLR. The Nikon Coolpix B700 is slightly larger and heavier than the Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ82, but both cameras provide a comfortable grip and easy handling. The Nikon Coolpix B700 has a dedicated mode dial for quick access to shooting modes, while the Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ82 features a touchscreen LCD for intuitive control.

Image Quality:

The Nikon Coolpix B700 and Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ82 both pack powerful sensors that deliver impressive image quality. The Nikon Coolpix B700 features a 20.3-megapixel CMOS sensor, while the Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ82 boasts a 18.1-megapixel MOS sensor. Both cameras offer a wide ISO range for capturing images in low-light conditions, although the Nikon Coolpix B700 has a slight edge in terms of high ISO performance.

Lens and Focal Length:

One of the key differences between the Nikon Coolpix B700 and Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ82 lies in their lenses and focal lengths. The Nikon Coolpix B700 features a 60x optical zoom lens with a focal length range of 24-1440mm (equivalent). This makes it an excellent choice for capturing distant subjects, such as wildlife or birds. On the other hand, the Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ82 has a 65x optical zoom lens with a focal length range of 20-1300mm (equivalent). While it offers a slightly wider focal length at the wide end, the shorter telephoto reach may be a limitation for some photographers.

Video Capabilities:

Both the Nikon Coolpix B700 and Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ82 offer video recording capabilities, but there are some notable differences. The Nikon Coolpix B700 can record 4K UHD videos at 30fps, while the Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ82 is limited to 1080p Full HD videos at 60fps. Additionally, the Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ82 features a built-in microphone jack for connecting an external microphone, which provides better audio quality for video recordings.

Connectivity and Sharing:

Both cameras offer a range of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, for easy sharing and transferring of images and videos. The Nikon Coolpix B700 has a dedicated Wi-Fi button for quick pairing with smartphones and tablets, while the Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ82 features a more advanced Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) connection for maintaining a constant connection with your mobile devices.

Battery Life:

Battery life is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a camera for outdoor photography. The Nikon Coolpix B700 is powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that provides up to 350 shots on a single charge. The Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ82, on the other hand, uses two AA batteries, which offer a longer battery life of up to 330 shots. However, the AA batteries may be less convenient to carry and charge compared to a dedicated lithium-ion battery.

Which Camera is Right for You?

Ultimately, the choice between the Nikon Coolpix B700 and Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ82 depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize long-range telephoto capabilities and 4K video recording, the Nikon Coolpix B700 is a solid choice. However, if you prefer a more compact design, wider focal length at the wide end, and the convenience of AA batteries, the Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ82 is worth considering.

The Verdict:

Both the Nikon Coolpix B700 and Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ82 are excellent bridge cameras that offer a versatile range of features for nature and wildlife photography. The Nikon Coolpix B700 stands out with its long telephoto reach and 4K video recording capabilities, while the Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ82 impresses with its compact design, wider focal length, and longer battery life. By carefully weighing the strengths and weaknesses of each camera, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your photography style and requirements.

What You Need to Learn

Q: Which camera has a longer optical zoom range?
A: The Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ82 has a slightly longer optical zoom range, with a focal length of 20-1300mm (equivalent), compared to the Nikon Coolpix B700’s 24-1440mm (equivalent) focal length range.

Q: Does the Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ82 have a touchscreen LCD?
A: Yes, the Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ82 features a 3-inch touchscreen LCD for intuitive control and easy navigation through menus and settings.

Q: Can I connect an external microphone to the Nikon Coolpix B700?
A: No, the Nikon Coolpix B700 does not have a built-in microphone jack for connecting an external microphone.

Q: Which camera is better for low-light photography?
A: The Nikon Coolpix B700 has a slight edge in low-light performance due to its larger 20.3-megapixel sensor and wider ISO range.

Q: Does the Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ82 have a dedicated mode dial?
A: No, the Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ82 does not have a dedicated mode dial. Instead, it uses a combination of buttons and the touchscreen LCD for changing shooting modes.