Nikon Coolpix S70: Total touch control

A refresh of the Nikon Coolpix S60, the S70 is improved in almost every way, changing a decent first effort of a touchscreen camera into something entirely usable.

Like its predecessor, the 12-megapixel S70 is almost entirely controlled with the touchscreen, including the 5x f3.9-5.8 28-140mm-equivalent zoom lens -- and even the shutter if you wish. Fortunately, it's much more responsive than last time. In fact, the entire interface is improved as is the the screen itself -- an 89mm (3.5-inch) OLED panel. The display and interface has a few new functions too, including a tap shutter release and multitouch commands in Playback mode.

It also has optical and electronic image stabilisation, 16 scene modes, macro shooting down to 30mm and a slick design available in four colour combinations: red on red, black on black, champagne and light brown, and champagne and beige.

Based on the few minutes we played with one, it's definitely an improvement over the S60 -- at least from the touchscreen aspect. Photo quality and performance is a big fat question mark till we get one in for review. And while the 5x and 28mm is good stuff, the f3.9 is something of a concern. The S70 should go on sale in the UK this autumn, although pricing has yet to be announced.

Post your comment

Make your comment count. Log in or register to skip the 'Are you human?' question and get an avatar

Will not be displayed with your comment

Copy the letters and numbers to prove that you're human. You won't have to do this if you log in or register

Your comment must comply with the Terms of Use

About CBS Interactive

Copyright © 2012 CBS Interactive Limited. All rights reserved.