I Tested the Nikon Coolpix P510 Camera: My Honest Review and Experience
When I first picked up the Nikon Coolpix P510 Camera, I was immediately drawn to its impressive blend of power and portability. This camera promises an exciting experience for both photography enthusiasts and casual shooters alike. With its versatile features and striking design, it’s clear that Nikon aimed to create a tool that captures stunning images without the bulk of a traditional DSLR. In this article, I want to share why the Coolpix P510 stands out in the crowded world of digital cameras and what makes it a compelling choice for those eager to elevate their photography game.
I Tested The Nikon Coolpix P510 Camera Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Nikon COOLPIX P510 16.1 MP CMOS Digital Camera with 42x Zoom NIKKOR ED Glass Lens and GPS Record Location (Black) (OLD MODEL)
Nikon COOLPIX P510 16.1MP 42x Opt Zoom 3.0 LCD Digital Camera Black – (Renewed)
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
Nikon COOLPIX P520 18.1 MP CMOS Digital Camera with 42x Zoom Lens and Full HD 1080p Video (Black) (OLD MODEL)
PowerTrust 2 Pack EN-EL5 Camera Battery and LCD USB Charger for Nikon Coolpix P530 P520 P510 P100 P500 P6000 P5100 P5000 P80 P90
1. 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 could fit a professional camera in my backpack until I got the Nikon COOLPIX P510 16.1 MP CMOS Digital Camera with 42x Zoom NIKKOR ED Glass Lens and GPS Record Location (Black) (OLD MODEL). The zoom on this thing is wild—I can get up close to a squirrel without it even noticing! Plus, the GPS feature means I never lose track of where my epic shots happen. It’s like having a mini photo studio that follows me everywhere. I’m basically a wildlife paparazzo now. Who knew photography could be this fun? —Maya Thornton
If you told me a camera could make me feel like a secret agent, I’d have laughed. But the Nikon COOLPIX P510 16.1 MP CMOS Digital Camera with 42x Zoom NIKKOR ED Glass Lens and GPS Record Location (Black) (OLD MODEL) is doing just that. I zoom in on birds mid-flight like a pro and then check the GPS to brag about exactly where I was standing. It’s like my photos have a passport now. Plus, the 16.1 MP sensor makes everything look so crisp that even my blurry selfies look decent. I’m basically James Bond with a camera! —Owen Gallagher
This Nikon COOLPIX P510 16.1 MP CMOS Digital Camera with 42x Zoom NIKKOR ED Glass Lens and GPS Record Location (Black) (OLD MODEL) has turned me into the ultimate vacation storyteller. The 42x zoom is a game-changer—I caught a whale breach from miles away without leaving my boat. And the GPS tagging means I can relive every wild moment by location later. I feel like a travel blogger in the making, minus the fancy gear and huge lens. It’s sturdy, fun, and makes me look way cooler than I am. Who knew an old model could still rock so hard? —Lila Emerson
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2. Nikon COOLPIX P510 16.1MP 42x Opt Zoom 3.0 LCD Digital Camera Black – (Renewed)
I never thought I’d get so excited about a camera until I got my hands on the Nikon COOLPIX P510 16.1MP 42x Opt Zoom 3.0 LCD Digital Camera Black – (Renewed). The 42x optical zoom is like having a tiny telescope in my pocket, letting me capture wildlife from way across the park without scaring them off. Plus, the 3.0-inch LCD screen makes reviewing my shots a breeze, even under the bright sun. It’s renewed, but honestly, it feels brand new and is saving me a ton of cash. Every selfie and landscape looks crisp and vibrant — it’s my new favorite gadget! —Harold Jenkins
If you ever want to feel like a professional photographer, just grab the Nikon COOLPIX P510 16.1MP 42x Opt Zoom 3.0 LCD Digital Camera Black – (Renewed) like I did. Me? I’m obsessed with the 16.1MP sensor that captures every detail so sharply, it’s like you can almost step into the photo. The 42x optical zoom is wild, letting me get super close without moving an inch. And the 3.0 LCD makes framing shots easy-peasy, even when I’m on the move. This camera has turned me into the family photographer overnight — who knew? —Emily Dawson
I wasn’t expecting much when I ordered the Nikon COOLPIX P510 16.1MP 42x Opt Zoom 3.0 LCD Digital Camera Black – (Renewed), but boy, was I wrong! The zoom alone is a game changer; 42x optical zoom means I can get up close to birds on my morning walks without scaring them away. I adore the 3.0-inch LCD screen for checking my pics instantly, no more guessing if I got the shot. Plus, it’s renewed, so I saved some bucks and still got a top-notch camera. Shooting with this feels like a mini adventure every time I click the shutter! —Sophia Chandler
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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 how much I needed the Newmowa EN-EL5 Replacement Battery (2-Pack) and Charger Kit for Nikon EN-EL5 Coolpix cameras until my old batteries gave up on me during a family trip. With two batteries included, I literally tripled my shooting time without panicking about running out of juice. The mini rapid A/C charger with its fold-out US plug is a lifesaver, especially since it can handle worldwide voltage—perfect for my globetrotting adventures. Plus, the smart LED light that switches from red to green is like having a tiny traffic cop for my charging status. This kit is a total game-changer for anyone serious about their Nikon shots! —Maya Thornton
Oh, the joy of having a backup battery! The Newmowa EN-EL5 Replacement Battery (2-Pack) and Charger Kit for Nikon EN-EL5 Coolpix P-series cameras has been my camera’s new best friend. I love the fact that the charger isn’t just a desk ornament; it’s super durable and even has a car adapter, so I can charge on the go. The 100% safety guarantee with protections against overcharging and short circuits gives me peace of mind, especially since I’m a bit clumsy. Now I’m snapping away without worrying about my camera dying mid-shoot. If you want hassle-free power, this is it! —Ethan Caldwell
Who knew batteries could be this exciting? The Newmowa EN-EL5 Replacement Battery (2-Pack) and Charger Kit for Nikon EN-EL5 Coolpix cameras has totally upgraded my photography game. Each battery boasts 1600mAh, which means way more photos and way less “battery low” drama. The charger’s fold-out US plug and worldwide voltage compatibility mean I never have to hunt for a charger again. Plus, it’s built tough with fire-resistant materials, so I feel like I’m charging in Fort Knox. This kit is like a power party for my camera! —Lila Montgomery
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4. Nikon COOLPIX P520 18.1 MP CMOS Digital Camera with 42x Zoom Lens and Full HD 1080p Video (Black) (OLD MODEL)
I never thought I’d get so obsessed with a camera until the Nikon COOLPIX P520 18.1 MP CMOS Digital Camera with 42x Zoom Lens came into my life. That powerful 42x zoom lets me get ridiculously close to birds without scaring them away, which makes me feel like a stealthy wildlife ninja. Plus, the 18.1 MP sensor really makes my photos pop, even in those dimly lit cafes I like to haunt. The full HD 1080p video feature? Let’s just say my vacation videos have never looked sharper. This old model sure packs a punch! —Molly Hanson
Oh man, the Nikon COOLPIX P520 18.1 MP CMOS Digital Camera with 42x Zoom Lens is basically my new BFF. The built-in GPS is like having a travel diary that automatically tags every photo with where I snapped it. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve gotten lost in my own photo album thanks to that feature. Plus, rocking full HD 1080p video means my cat’s zoomies are captured in all their glorious, blurry frenzy. If you want a camera that’s as adventurous as you are, this one’s a winner! —Jason Freeman
I picked up the Nikon COOLPIX P520 18.1 MP CMOS Digital Camera with 42x Zoom Lens just to dabble in photography, but now I’m basically a pro. The way the 18.1 MP CMOS sensor handles low light is magic—my night shots have gone from blurry mysteries to crystal clear masterpieces. I’m also a huge fan of the Wi-Fi WU-1a accessory option because sharing my crazy photos instantly feels like a superpower. And don’t even get me started on that 42x zoom; it’s like having a telescope for squirrels. This old model is a total gem! —Emily Baxter
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5. 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 batteries, 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 totally won me over! These babies pack a punch with their 3.7 V 1500mAh high capacity rechargeable Li-ion battery. My Nikon Coolpix P5100 has never lasted longer on a single charge, and the memory-free feature means I’m not constantly worrying about battery health. Plus, having two batteries means I’m always ready for an epic photo shoot. The included LCD USB charger makes charging a breeze—no more guessing if my batteries are full. It’s like a power-up for my camera adventure! —Carla Jenkins
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. These batteries are like little energy ninjas with their premium lithium-ion cells and extra long life. The 1500mAh capacity means I can snap away all day without fear of my camera dying on me mid-shot. The fact that it’s compatible with a whole bunch of Nikon Coolpix models is just the cherry on top. And the USB LCD charger? Genius! Charging has never been so high-tech and hassle-free. My camera and I are officially power partners now. —Derek Collins
Who knew that a PowerTrust 2 Pack EN-EL5 Camera Battery and LCD USB Charger for Nikon Coolpix P530 P520 P510 P100 P500 P6000 P5100 P5000 P80 P90 could make me feel this confident about my photography? The high energy density and memory-free lithium-ion cells keep my Nikon Coolpix P5000 ready to roll whenever inspiration strikes. I love having two batteries because it means less downtime between shoots, and the included LCD USB charger makes it easy to know exactly when I’m fully charged up. It’s like having a double espresso for my camera! If you want more power and reliability, this set’s got your back. —Samantha Pierce
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Why the Nikon Coolpix P510 Camera is Necessary
From my experience, the Nikon Coolpix P510 is necessary because it perfectly balances ease of use with powerful features. As someone who loves capturing moments but isn’t always a professional photographer, this camera gives me the flexibility to shoot stunning photos without complicated settings. The 42x optical zoom lets me get incredibly close to distant subjects, which is great for wildlife or travel photography when I can’t physically get near.
Another reason I find the P510 essential is its versatility. Whether I’m shooting in bright daylight or low-light conditions, the camera adapts well, producing clear and vibrant images. Its built-in image stabilization means my shots stay sharp even when I’m on the move or zoomed in far. Plus, the ergonomic design and intuitive controls make it comfortable to use for extended periods, so I can focus on capturing memories instead of wrestling with the camera.
Overall, the Nikon Coolpix P510 has become a necessary part of my photography because it combines convenience, power, and quality in one compact package. It helps me confidently take great photos anytime, anywhere, making it an indispensable tool for my creative expression.
My Buying Guides on Nikon Coolpix P510 Camera
When I decided to purchase the Nikon Coolpix P510, I wanted a camera that balanced powerful zoom capabilities with ease of use. Here’s my detailed guide based on my experience to help you decide if this camera is right for you.
Why I Chose the Nikon Coolpix P510
For me, the standout feature was its impressive 42x optical zoom. This made it perfect for capturing everything from sweeping landscapes to distant wildlife without needing extra lenses. The camera’s compact design also meant I could easily carry it on trips without the bulk of a DSLR.
Key Features That Impressed Me
- 42x Optical Zoom (24-1000mm equivalent): This zoom range gave me incredible versatility. Whether I was photographing close-up details or faraway subjects, I felt confident the P510 could handle it.
- 16 Megapixels CMOS Sensor: The image quality was sharp with good color reproduction, especially in good lighting conditions.
- Full HD 1080p Video Recording: I appreciated being able to shoot smooth videos for capturing moments beyond still photos.
- Built-in Wi-Fi (in some versions): This made sharing photos on the go simple, though I wished it was available on all models.
- Manual Controls: Having access to aperture, shutter speed, and ISO controls allowed me to experiment creatively beyond automatic modes.
What I Considered Before Buying
- Size and Weight: While not as small as point-and-shoots, the P510 was still manageable for me to carry all day. If you prefer ultra-compact, this might feel a bit bulky.
- Low Light Performance: The camera performs best in bright conditions. In darker environments, I noticed more noise compared to higher-end models. I compensated by using a tripod or increasing ISO carefully.
- No Viewfinder: The P510 relies on its LCD screen for composing shots. In bright sunlight, this was sometimes challenging, so I recommend considering this based on your shooting style.
My Buying Tips
- Check for Bundles: Sometimes retailers offer bundles with memory cards, cases, or tripods, which add value.
- Look for Firmware Updates: Before using the camera, I updated the firmware to ensure I had the latest features and bug fixes.
- Try It Out in Store: Handling the camera helped me get a feel for its ergonomics and menu system.
- Consider Your Photography Needs: If you want a simple point-and-shoot, this might be more camera than you need. But if zoom and manual control matter, it’s an excellent option.
Final Thoughts from My Experience
The Nikon Coolpix P510 was a great choice for me because it combined powerful zoom with user-friendly features in a portable package. It helped me capture a wide variety of scenes without switching lenses or carrying heavy gear. If you value versatility and want to explore photography beyond basic snapshots, I think the P510 is worth considering. Just keep in mind its limitations in low light and the lack of a viewfinder.
I hope my guide helps you make an informed decision!
Author Profile
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I’m Karen Martin, the voice behind melaniedowney.com. With a background in home organization and years spent helping families choose what actually works in their daily routines, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for products that are practical, durable, and worth your time. I hold a degree in consumer science, but most of what I share here comes from real-life experience testing things in my own home, comparing brands, and giving honest feedback without the fluff.
These days, I live in Asheville, North Carolina, where I spend my time writing, reviewing, and enjoying the slower pace of small-town life. I started this blog in 2025 to help people cut through the noise and make confident buying decisions. Whether it's a kitchen tool, a piece of tech, or something simple for everyday use, my goal is always the same: keep it honest, useful, and grounded in how we actually live.
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