Nikon Coolpix 8700: a first look

Nikon Coolpix 8700: an 8-megapixel digital camera for £899.99 (inc. VAT), available in March 2004.

Because this 8-megapixel sensor's photodiode is larger than that of the typical 5-megapixel CCD, the jump in resolution shouldn't have the same drawbacks as stepping up from 4 megapixels to 5. Plus, Nikon claims that the 8700 performs better than the relatively sluggish 5700; the new model's burst mode, for example, is rated at 2.5 frames per second for up to 5 frames. And the 8700 should prove enticing for upgraders; its body is similar to the 5700's, and the two cameras take the same accessories.

Compared with the 5700's 8X zoom lens, the 8700's f/2.8, 38mm-to-280mm (the 35mm-camera equivalent) 8X zoom lens has a slightly narrower range and gives up some precious wide-angle territory.

Competition between the 8-megapixel upstarts and the increasingly cheaper digital SLRs will make digital camera choices even tougher. Enthusiasts will have to decide if they want an SLR's flexibility and feel or a higher resolution. The Coolpix 8700 will cost £899.99 (inc. VAT) and be available in the UK from March. We'll keep you posted.

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