Nikon Coolpix S1000pj

As the point-and-shoot digital camera market matures, it seems like flashy, never-before-seen features are what manufacturers are using to make their shooters stand out of the crowded pack. Case in point: The $350 Samsung DualView TL225, which features two LCDs, including a forward-facing display so you can easily capture self-portraits. But this pocket camera also offers excellent image quality and a very solid feature set for the price. Another example: Nikon's 12.1-megapixel Coolpix S1000pj ($429.95 list), which grabs your attention with its built-in projector that can project images onto a nearby wall, so you don't have to huddle around the camera to see the photos or video you've captured. But unlike the Samsung TL225, which is a terrific camera that happens to have a buzz-worthy feature, the S1000pj, besides its projector, is an otherwise mediocre camera that comes at an extraordinary price.

COMPANY

• Nikon USA
• http://www.NikonUSA.com

SPEC DATA

• Price as Tested: $429.95 List
• Type: Compact
• Megapixels: 12.1 MP
• Maximum Resolution: 4000 x 3000 pixels
• Media Format: Secure Digital High Capacity
• 35-mm Equivalent (Wide): 28
• 35-mm Equivalent (Telephoto): 140
• Optical Zoom: 5 x
• LCD size: 2.7 inches
• Wireless Connectivity: No
• HD Video Capture: No