Features
Handling
Performance
Verdict
Specification
The Nikon Coolpix S32 is an easy to use waterproof camera, and an update of the S31. This new model now has a 13 megapixel sensor, is waterproof to 10m, and is shockproof to 1.5m, compared to 5m / 1.3m on its predecessor, the S31.
Nikon Coolpix S32 Features
The Nikon Coolpix S32 has a 13 megapixel CMOS sensor and 3x optical zoom lens, which is a 35mm equivalent of 30-90mm, with motion-blur reduction to help take sharp shots. It is waterproof to 10m (33 ft), shockproof to 1.5m (5 ft) and dustproof. There are also fun filters, including Mirror, Bubble Effect and Neon.
Videos can now be recorded in 1080p HD, with stereo sound.
Key Features
- 13 megapixel CMOS sensor
- 3x optical zoom lens (35mm equiv: 30 - 90mm)
- Motion Blur Reduction
- 2.7 inch 230k dot LCD screen
- Waterproof to 10m, shockproof 1.5m and dustproof
- 1080p HD video recording
- ISO 125 - 1600
- 5cm minimum focusing distance
- Fun filters
- 4.7fps continuous shooting
- Available in blue, pink, white and yellow
Nikon Coolpix S32 Handling
This camera is designed for kids as well as adults to use, so buttons and dials are kept to the minimum. As with its predecessor, there are four buttons on the left of the screen, which are used to control most options. The zoom is controlled by a four-way button on the right, with an on/off button on the top and big and obvious shutter release and video start buttons on either side. The menus are made up of large text and bold, colourful icons, with options selected using the four buttons on the left hand side of the camera.
The battery life is rated as approx. 220 shots when using the EN-EL19 battery (according to CIPA standards). An effective power management system soon shuts the camera down when not in use. The screen is not particularly high resolution at 230k dots, but can be viewed easily in bright sunlight.
Speed - We took a number of shots to test the camera's responsiveness, from switch on to first photo, shot to shot, focusing speed etc. We take a number of shots and then use the average to ensure accurate and consistent tests, making it easy to compare with other cameras.
| Shutter Response | <0.05secs |
| Wide - Focus / Shutter Response | 0.4-0.8secs |
| Full zoom - Focus / Shutter Response | 0.8secs |
| Switch on Time to Taking a Photo | 1.5secs |
| Shot to Shot without Flash | 1.1secs |
| Shot to Shot with Flash | 2.5secs |
| Continuous Shooting - JPEG (shots before slow down) |
5fps (12 shots) |
| Continuous Shooting - Flash | N/A |
Shutter response is quick, but focus can be noticeably slow at times. Continuous shooting is quick at 5fps.
Nikon Coolpix S32 Performance
The performance section is where we look at the image quality performance of the camera. Additional sample photos and product shots are available in the Equipment Database, where you can add your own review, photos and product ratings.
Nikon Coolpix S32 Sample Photos
Sample Photos - Underwater - As a take anywhere underwater camera the little Nikon is a very convincing performer. Details are sharp and colours are natural, so your family can have a lot of fun with this camera. Flash performance is reasonable, with the flash illuminating but not overpowering the subject, although red-eye was noticeable. Try to lock the autofocus over the eyes for the best results.
Nikon Coolpix S32 Lens test images
Lens Performance - The combination of a Nikon lens, motion blur reduction and effective optical zoom (rather than the inferior digital zoom) makes the Nikon a good choice for days out. For general close ups the lens performs very well, and the autofocus soon locks on, and the lens can focus the closest when at it's widest zoom position. You do have to watch out for underexposure indoors though, unless you use the flash.
Nikon Coolpix S32 ISO test images
ISO Noise Performance - The camera does not let you select the ISO setting. This meant we had to alter the lighting in the room to force the camera to alter its ISO setting. Once you get to ISO400, noise becomes quite noticeable, but isn't too bad.
Nikon Coolpix S32 White-balance test images
White Balance Performance - Auto White Balance (AWB) performs fairly well under tungsten lighting with a warm result. AWB performs very well under fluorescent lights. There are no options for setting the white balance yourself, so you have to rely on the camera's auto white balance.
Nikon Coolpix S32 Digital filters
Digital Filters - There are a number of scene modes, as well as effects available within the scene selection menu. There is no panoramic mode on the camera. Mirror filter - The mirror filter is fun to use, particularly with portraits, but the inability to adjust ISO is frustrating. Soft filter - Used carefully the soft filter can actually yield some very creative results, keeping a small central area of the shot sharp while nicely blurring the rest. Bubble filter - Your kids will love using the Bubble filter in a sweet or toy shop, as here – the focus on the sweet spot (pardon the pun) is sharp. Cartoon filter - The cartoon filter gets you nice effects on the street. There is a lag while the image is processed, but it's not too bad. There are a number of other effects, including "Neon", Soft and Miniature. There are also a number of frames available, however these are taken at a reduced resolution of 2 megapixels.
Video - Videos are recorded in full HD (1920x1080), at 30fps with stereo sound. Unfortunately optical zoom is not available while recording videos.
Value For Money
Considering its generous 13 megapixel sensor and optical zoom, the Nikon Coolpix S32 is great value at £83.99. Other waterproof cameras with optical zoom include the Panasonic Lumix FT25 at £109.99, the Fujifilm FinePix XP70 for £139 and the Ricoh WG-20 for £139. For more waterproof cameras, have a look at the Top 10 Best Waterproof Cameras.
You'll also need to buy a memory card and a case or bag to keep your camera safe and protected - have a look at our complete guide to camera bags.
Nikon Coolpix S32 Verdict
The Nikon Coolpix S32 offers a higher resolution sensor and deeper waterproofing than the S31. It remains one of the cheapest waterproof cameras on the market with optical zoom, so it's ideal for family trips to the pool or holidays. It's easy to use and image quality is decent enough, with good colour reproduction. The expanded filters are fun to use too, so it's a good way for kids to get into photography. More ambitious photographers might find the lack of ISO and white balance control frustrating, however.