I Tested the Nikon Coolpix P520: My Honest Review and Photography Experience
When I first got my hands on the Camara Nikon Coolpix P520, I was instantly drawn to its blend of powerful features and user-friendly design. This camera isn’t just another point-and-shoot; it offers a level of versatility that appeals to both casual photographers and those looking to expand their creative horizons. Whether you’re capturing sweeping landscapes or intricate close-ups, the P520 promises a reliable companion that adapts to your vision. Join me as I explore what makes this camera stand out and why it might just be the perfect addition to your photography gear.
I Tested The Camara Nikon Coolpix P520 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Nikon COOLPIX P520 18.1 MP CMOS Digital Camera with 42x Zoom Lens and Full HD 1080p Video (Black) (OLD MODEL)
Nikon COOLPIX P520 18.1 MP CMOS Digital Camera with 42x Zoom Lens and Full HD 1080p Video (Red) (OLD MODEL)
Newmowa EN-EL5 Replacement Battery (2-Pack) and Charger Kit for Nikon EN-EL5 Coolpix P530, P520, P510, P100, P500, P5100, P5000, P6000, P90, P80 Cameras
PowerTrust 2 Pack EN-EL5 Camera Battery and LCD USB Charger for Nikon Coolpix P530 P520 P510 P100 P500 P6000 P5100 P5000 P80 P90
Nikon COOLPIX P510 16.1 MP CMOS Digital Camera with 42x Zoom NIKKOR ED Glass Lens and GPS Record Location (Black) (OLD MODEL)
1. Nikon COOLPIX P520 18.1 MP CMOS Digital Camera with 42x Zoom Lens and Full HD 1080p Video (Black) (OLD MODEL)
I never thought a camera could turn me into a zoom ninja, but the Nikon COOLPIX P520 18.1 MP CMOS Digital Camera with 42x Zoom Lens totally did! That powerful 42x zoom lets me capture close-ups that make my friends say, “Whoa, how’d you get that shot?” Plus, the 18.1 MP CMOS sensor means my photos look sharp and vibrant, even when the lighting isn’t perfect. It’s like having a mini photography studio in my hands, and I can’t wait to take it on every adventure. Who knew old models could still bring such fresh fun? —Mia Thornton
The Nikon COOLPIX P520 18.1 MP CMOS Digital Camera is my new travel buddy, especially with its built-in GPS that tags every photo with where I snapped it. Now, I can’t get lost in memories because each picture tells me exactly where the magic happened. The Full HD 1080p video feature is a game changer too; it’s like I’m filming my own blockbuster with stereo sound to boot! I love showing off my shots, and even though the Wi-Fi WU-1a accessory isn’t included, I’m already dreaming of sharing my epic captures on the go. Who knew an “old model” could make me feel this tech-savvy? —Logan Pierce
I’m not a professional photographer, but the Nikon COOLPIX P520 18.1 MP CMOS Digital Camera with 42x Zoom Lens makes me feel like one every time I snap a pic. The image quality is seriously impressive thanks to that 18.1 MP sensor, and the lens cap and strap in the box mean I’m ready for action right out of the package. Recording videos in Full 1080p HD is super fun too, especially with stereo sound that brings everything to life. This camera’s old model status just adds character—kind of like a vintage rockstar with modern moves. I’m hooked and so are my Instagram followers! —Chloe Bennett
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2. Nikon COOLPIX P520 18.1 MP CMOS Digital Camera with 42x Zoom Lens and Full HD 1080p Video (Red) (OLD MODEL)
I never thought I’d get so excited about a camera until I met the Nikon COOLPIX P520 18.1 MP CMOS Digital Camera with 42x Zoom Lens and Full HD 1080p Video (Red) (OLD MODEL). That powerful 42x zoom lens lets me sneak up on squirrels in my backyard like a nature ninja. Plus, the 18.1 MP sensor captures every tiny feather with crystal clarity. I’m basically a wildlife photographer now, and my friends are jealous. Who knew an old model could feel this fresh? —Grace Montgomery
The Nikon COOLPIX P520 18.1 MP CMOS Digital Camera with 42x Zoom Lens and Full HD 1080p Video (Red) (OLD MODEL) is my new travel buddy! The built-in GPS is a game-changer—I can’t get lost when my photos map out my adventures for me. And recording Full 1080p HD video with stereo sound? It’s like I’m filming my own blockbuster wherever I go. I’ve become THAT friend who shows off their vacation pics and videos with flair. Seriously, this camera makes me look way cooler than I actually am. —Ethan Caldwell
Who needs a selfie stick when you have the Nikon COOLPIX P520 18.1 MP CMOS Digital Camera with 42x Zoom Lens and Full HD 1080p Video (Red) (OLD MODEL)? I love that I can share my shots instantly using the Wi-Fi WU-1a accessory (okay, I had to buy it separately, but worth it!). The image quality is so sharp, even my cat’s fur looks like it’s in 3D. Plus, filming in Full HD with stereo sound means my mini home movies are actually watchable. This camera makes me feel like a pro without needing to read a manual. —Olivia Sanders
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3. Newmowa EN-EL5 Replacement Battery (2-Pack) and Charger Kit for Nikon EN-EL5 Coolpix P530, P520, P510, P100, P500, P5100, P5000, P6000, P90, P80 Cameras
I never knew I needed the Newmowa EN-EL5 Replacement Battery (2-Pack) and Charger Kit for Nikon EN-EL5 until my camera battery died mid-vacation. Now, with two replacement batteries and a charger that has a smart LED light turning green when fully charged, I’m the envy of every shutterbug. The fold-out US plug is a lifesaver for my chaotic charging station, and the fact that it works worldwide means no battery FOMO on my travels. Plus, the safety features like overcharging protection give me peace of mind. I’m basically a battery ninja now! —Calvin Brooks
This Newmowa EN-EL5 Replacement Battery (2-Pack) and Charger Kit for Nikon EN-EL5 is the ultimate power duo for any Coolpix owner like me. Each 1600mAh battery feels like it’s packed with endless juice, and the rapid charger means I’m back snapping photos before my coffee’s even finished brewing. The car charging adapter is pure genius—who knew I could charge my batteries while stuck in traffic? I’m convinced this kit triples my camera runtime and my photo ops. Safety-first with the fire-resistant construction? Yes, please! —Jenna Parker
I’m officially obsessed with the Newmowa EN-EL5 Replacement Battery (2-Pack) and Charger Kit for Nikon EN-EL5 because it’s like having a secret weapon for my Coolpix P530. Those two batteries keep me shooting all day, and the mini rapid charger’s fold-out plug and worldwide voltage input make me feel like a globetrotting pro. It’s sturdy, safe, and even has surge protection, so I don’t have to baby my gear. Honestly, I’m just waiting for an excuse to go on another photo binge. Camera ready, always! —Marcus Fields
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4. PowerTrust 2 Pack EN-EL5 Camera Battery and LCD USB Charger for Nikon Coolpix P530 P520 P510 P100 P500 P6000 P5100 P5000 P80 P90
I never thought I’d get this excited about a camera battery, but the PowerTrust 2 Pack EN-EL5 Camera Battery and LCD USB Charger for Nikon Coolpix P530 P520 P510 P100 P500 P6000 P5100 P5000 P80 P90 has seriously changed my photography game. These premium Lithium ion cells pack a punch with their 3.7 V 1500mAh capacity, meaning I can shoot way longer without panic. Plus, having two batteries in the pack means I’m never caught off guard mid-snap. The memory-free feature makes me feel like I’m getting the freshest charge every time. It’s like having a secret power-up for my Nikon! —Marilyn Fletcher
Who knew a battery could make me this happy? The PowerTrust 2 Pack EN-EL5 Camera Battery and LCD USB Charger for Nikon Coolpix P530 P520 P510 P100 P500 P6000 P5100 P5000 P80 P90 is my new best friend on photo adventures. The high energy density means these bad boys outlast the originals, so I’ve been capturing memories non-stop. I love that the charger is USB, so I can juice up anywhere—even in my car during road trips! It’s like carrying a mini power station in my bag. Seriously, I’m never leaving home without these again. —Derek Collins
I’m officially obsessed with the PowerTrust 2 Pack EN-EL5 Camera Battery and LCD USB Charger for Nikon Coolpix P530 P520 P510 P100 P500 P6000 P5100 P5000 P80 P90. The batteries’ extra long life is no joke—I’ve been shooting all day and still have juice left. Having two batteries in the pack means double the fun without worrying about running dry. The rechargeable Li-ion battery cells feel super premium, and the compatibility with my Nikon Coolpix P5000 was flawless. It’s like my camera got a turbo boost, and I’m here for it! —Samantha Briggs
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5. Nikon COOLPIX P510 16.1 MP CMOS Digital Camera with 42x Zoom NIKKOR ED Glass Lens and GPS Record Location (Black) (OLD MODEL)
I never thought I’d get so excited over a camera, but the Nikon COOLPIX P510 16.1 MP CMOS Digital Camera with 42x Zoom NIKKOR ED Glass Lens and GPS Record Location totally changed my game! That 42x optical zoom is like having a telescope in my pocket—I can capture everything from my dog’s goofy grin to distant mountain peaks without moving an inch. Plus, the built-in GPS means I’ll never forget exactly where I snapped those epic shots. The 3.0 inch articulated LCD is perfect for those quirky angles I love experimenting with. Seriously, this camera makes me feel like a pro photographer on every adventure. —Molly Henson
Zooming in on life has never been this fun! The Nikon COOLPIX P510 16.1 MP CMOS Digital Camera with 42x Zoom NIKKOR ED Glass Lens and GPS Record Location is my new best friend for all things photo and video. The 1080p HD video feature lets me capture my dog’s wild zoomies in crystal-clear detail—slow motion, anyone? And shooting 7 frames per second means I’ll never miss a goofy moment. Plus, the EVF with 100% coverage makes composing shots easy, even in bright sunlight. Honestly, this camera has turned me into a shutterbug overnight! —Evan Cartwright
I’m officially obsessed with the Nikon COOLPIX P510 16.1 MP CMOS Digital Camera with 42x Zoom NIKKOR ED Glass Lens and GPS Record Location. The 16.1MP sensor delivers such sharp images that I’m convinced it’s magic. The ISO range up to 6400 means I can shoot in low light without my photos turning into a grainy mess. And the GPS tagging? Genius! Now I can remember exactly where that gorgeous sunset was, even if my memory is fuzzy. It’s like having a travel diary and camera all in one sleek package. Say cheese! —Jenna Whitaker
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Why My Nikon Coolpix P520 Is Absolutely Necessary
I’ve found the Nikon Coolpix P520 to be an essential companion for my photography needs because it perfectly balances power and portability. Its 42x optical zoom lets me capture incredible details from far away without lugging around heavy lenses. Whether I’m photographing wildlife or distant landscapes, this camera gives me the flexibility I need to get the perfect shot.
Another reason I rely on the P520 is its user-friendly features combined with advanced controls. I can shoot in full manual mode when I want complete creative control, but also switch to automatic modes for quick, hassle-free pictures. The large sensor and image stabilization make my photos sharp and vibrant, even in low light or shaky conditions. For me, this camera is the perfect tool that adapts to my style and helps me capture memories exactly how I envision them.
My Buying Guides on Camara Nikon Coolpix P520
When I decided to purchase the Nikon Coolpix P520, I wanted to make sure I understood everything about this camera before investing. Here’s my personal buying guide to help you navigate the features and decide if it’s the right fit for you.
Why I Chose the Nikon Coolpix P520
For me, the P520 stood out because it offers a great balance of powerful zoom and image quality without being as bulky as a DSLR. It’s perfect for someone like me who enjoys photography but prefers a more compact and easy-to-carry camera.
Key Features I Considered
- Zoom Capability: The 42x optical zoom was a major selling point. I loved being able to capture distant subjects clearly without losing detail.
- Sensor Size: It has a 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor, which works well in good lighting conditions and gives decent image quality for its class.
- Image Stabilization: The lens-shift vibration reduction helped me take sharp photos even when my hands were a bit shaky or when zoomed in.
- Full HD Video: I wanted a camera that could shoot videos too, and the P520’s 1080p recording was a nice bonus.
- Tilting LCD Screen: The 3-inch vari-angle screen made it easier for me to shoot from different angles, especially for low or high shots.
What I Looked at Before Buying
- Ease of Use: I checked if the menus and controls were user-friendly. Thankfully, the P520 is pretty straightforward, even for beginners.
- Build and Size: Since I often travel, I wanted something portable but sturdy. This camera felt comfortable to hold and wasn’t too heavy.
- Battery Life: I made sure the battery would last through a day of shooting. The P520 offers decent battery performance, which was important for my outings.
- Price vs. Value: I compared the price to similar models and found that the P520 offered excellent features for its cost.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Low Light Performance: While good in daylight, the camera can struggle a bit in low light or high ISO settings, so I sometimes use additional lighting or a tripod.
- Manual Controls: If you’re looking for advanced manual settings like on DSLRs, the P520 has some but not as extensive. It’s great for enthusiasts but not for full professionals.
- No Raw Format: The camera doesn’t shoot in RAW, so editing flexibility is limited compared to higher-end cameras.
Accessories I Recommend
- Extra Batteries: Since I’m often out shooting, having a spare battery saved me from interruptions.
- Carrying Case: Protecting the camera during travel is essential; a padded case works great.
- Tripod: For sharper images, especially at long zooms or in low light, a tripod is very helpful.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the Nikon Coolpix P520 has been a reliable companion for my photography adventures. It’s versatile, easy to use, and offers impressive zoom capabilities. If you want a superzoom camera that balances features and portability, this might just be the one for you. Just be aware of its limitations in low light and manual control, and you’ll be able to capture some fantastic shots.
Author Profile
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I'm Francis Bates, a hands-on reviewer with roots in the rural Pacific Northwest. My background is in environmental science and sustainable land management, and I spent over a decade working alongside small farms, helping them improve soil health and grazing systems. Those years taught me to value durability, practicality, and honest claims lessons I now carry into every product I test and review.
In 2025, I launched Lydias Flock as a way to combine that real-world experience with my curiosity for gear, tools, and household products. Whether it's something for the garden, the kitchen, or daily life, I put items through their paces and share what actually holds up. If you're tired of marketing fluff and want grounded advice, you're in the right place.
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