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The 8-megapixel Nikon Coolpix 8400 is, in many ways, similar to its 8800 sibling. However, while the Coolpix 8800 lights the fire of telephoto lovers with its 350mm lens, the Coolpix 8400—with a 34mm-85mm lens—brings joy to those who need the broader view of a wideangle lens. If that’s not enough flexibility, accessory lenses are also available.
Although you won’t be putting the 8400 in your pocket, the camera is relatively compact and features a large grip for a solid handhold. Overall build quality is excellent and sturdy enough to withstand rugged use in the field. The vari-angle LCD and the electronic viewfinder both deliver bright and clear viewing.
Most of the controls are well-placed for easy use. However, one of our major gripes about this camera is the placement of the zoom lever toward the middle of the camera’s back. You have to use your thumb to zoom, and it’s really awkward—especially if you have small hands.
That said, this camera has very few other shortfalls. An advanced feature set—including full manual controls, live histogram and selectable focus points—will delight advanced amateurs. Automatic operation, easy in-camera correction features (for redeye and backlighting) and a broad selection of scene modes will please less experienced users. Everyone will be gifted with beautiful images.
The 8400 performs well, but doesn’t break any speed records. The camera offers multiple continuous shooting modes, as well as movies and time-lapse shooting. Macro is excellent, although the flash over-exposed some of our test shots.
Image quality is outstanding. Our test shots were crisply focused and well-saturated with bright, beautiful colors. We were disappointed to notice image noise in shadows at ISO 50, however, it was minimal and in no way lessened our enthusiasm for this terrific 8-megapixel camera. –THEANO NIKITAS
Coolpix 8400: 
Nikon USA | www.nikonusa.com | 800-645-6689 | $900
Pros: Ultra-wide angle lens, advanced feature set, useful scene modes, RAW, TIFF & JPEG, multiple continuous settings, excellent macro mode, accessory hotshoe, great picture quality.
Cons: Difficult to use zoom lever, image noise in shadows starting at ISO 50.
Requires: Built-in USB or FireWire, OS 10.1.5 or higher for bundled software
macHOME recommends: High-capacity Compact- Flash card, card reader, extra battery
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