The Nikon Style Digital Camera Line at PMA: Coolpix S5 and Coolpix S6

The two new ultra-slim additions to Nikon's "S" (for Style) line are the Nikon Coolpix S5 and Coolpix S6.  We got a chance to get hands-on with them at PMA to get a real feel for their size and features.  Their new "wave" design is nice and comfortable and the new rotary control dial is also a nice touch for these slim cameras.

Both cameras can capture images up to 6 megapixels and store them on internal memory or SD memory cards.  Also, both cameras have a 3x optical zoom lens and are powered by rechargeable lithium-ion batteries.  Both models also sport a new rotary control dial that provides an easy way to scroll through modes, menu options, or pictures in playback mode.  A nice display on the LCD lets you know what you're selecting.  Also, both the Coolpix S5 and Coolpix S6 comply with the Imagelink standard that allows them to be plugged into a Kodak EasyShare Series 3 Printer Dock printer (with a custom insert). 

View of 3" LCD and control dial on Nikon Coolpix S6 (view large image)

As for differences, you will find a 3 inch LCD in the Nikon Coolpix S6 and a 2.5 inch LCD on the Coolpix S5.  The Coolpix S6 also have 802.11b and 802.11g Wifi capability.

The design of the S5 and S6 is very nice.  The wave design allows more room for the lens and gives the hand a bit more stability on the right side of the camera.

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Availability: March 2006 - $349 for the Coolpix S5 and $449 for the Coolpix S6

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Other Nikon cameras at PMA:

• The Nikon Performance Digital Camera Line at PMA: Coolpix P3 and Coolpix P4
• The Nikon Life Digital Camera Line at PMA: Coolpix L2, Coolpix L3, and Coolpix L4