Canon Powershot A495 vs Nikon Coolpix L22 Comparison
Canon Powershot A495
Nikon Coolpix L22
The Canon Powershot A495 and the Nikon Coolpix L22 are two of the leading entry level digital cameras. There are a number of subtle differences between the two models.
When it comes to picture quality they are both capable of taking a decent snapshot, but based on my tests the Canon Powershot A495 has the edge. When it comes to ease of use the reverse is opposite with the Nikon Coolpix L22 coming out ahead in this area.
Basic Specification
Canon Powershot A495
10 megapixels
3.3x Optical Zoom
2.5 inch LCD screen
Macro Focus: 1cm
AA Batteries
Dimensions: 93.5 x 61.7 x 30.6mm
Weight: 175g
Nikon Coolpix L22
12 megapixels
3.6x optical zoom
3 inch LCD screen
Macro Focus 5cm
AA Batteries
Dimensions: 60.5 x 94.7 x 28.3mm
Weight: 183g
Features
Looking at the Basic Specification table I would say the Coolpix L22 offers more when it comes to these key features. I certainly like the larger LCD screen offered by the Nikon model. When you dig a little deeper into the specification you will find you have access to a lot more settings with the Powershot A495. For example there are different metering modes you can experiment with and extra settings to control flash.
So when it comes to features it is a case of deciding whether the main characteristics of the camera are more important to you or if you prefer to be able to fine tune more minor features.
Design
Both cameras are on the large side for slipping easily into a pocket. They will fit into larger pockets, but they are nowhere near as compact as many of the digital cameras on the market. It is also worth noting that at this price point the build quality of each of the cameras does not feel quite so solid as more expensive models.
Both cameras come in a choice of colours. You can pick up the Powershot A495 in silver, blue and red. The Coolpix L22 comes in silver, black, blue and red.
Start Up and Shutter Lag
This is another area where there is not clear cut winner. The Coolpix L22 is quicker to take a single shot both with and without flash while the Powershot A495 is the faster of the two to take more than one shot. This camera is also slightly faster to turn on and take the first photo.
Power Supply
AA batteries power both cameras. Fewer and fewer cameras use this type of battery now, so if AA batteries appeal to you then it is worth taking a closer look.
Picture Quality
This is one area where the Powershot A495 comes out on top. The Coolpix L22 is capable of producing a decent quality snapshot, but I found the Canon camera to be very strong in this area when compared to all cameras in this price bracket. How important this factor is to you will depend at least in part to the size of prints you are planning to make. The smaller the print the less likely you are to see the difference between the two cameras.
Ease of Use
When it comes to ease of use I have a clear preference for the Coolpix L22. There is no doubt that fewer features help in this respect, but it I also find Nikon are especially good when it comes to easy to read menus. This is another area where the large screen can make it easier to read the menu and to compose and review photos.
Verdict
As you can see above both cameras have their strengths and weaknesses. In a nutshell I would say if picture quality is your main driver then the Canon Powershot A495 is likely to be your best bet. If you are happy to make a small compromise in this area in turn for great ease of use then this swings the balance in favour of the Nikon Coolpix L22.
Where to Buy - Canon Powershot A495
Product Shots
Front View
Canon Powershot A495
Nikon Coolpix L22
Back View
Canon Powershot A495
Nikon Coolpix L22
Top View
Canon Powershot A495
Nikon Coolpix L22
