Nikon 1 J4
Announced April 10, 2014
PixelMeter The PixelMeter is our 1–100 aggregate of reviewer scores from trusted publications and creators. Weighted by source tier — not a raw average, and not PetaPixel’s own review.
Reviewer Consensus
Mediocre
The Nikon 1 J4 is a compact, stylish camera that delivers impressive autofocus speeds and high-frame-rate shooting in a pocketable body. That said, its small 1-inch sensor struggles with image noise and dynamic range compared to larger-sensor alternatives, and the lack of a physical grip can make handling difficult.
Weighted from 10 reviewer scores
Pros
- Extremely fast autofocus and continuous shooting performance
- Responsive and intuitive touchscreen interface
- Compact, lightweight, and stylish metal chassis
- Useful advanced features like high-speed video and creative modes
Cons
- Image quality issues including noise, limited dynamic range, and soft detail
- Performance limitations including slow shot-to-shot times and kit lens softness
- Inconsistent user interface and missing manual controls
- Ergonomic challenges due to a smooth, grip-less body
- Lack of essential physical hardware like a viewfinder or tilting screen
- Launch price $649.95 (USD)
- Sensor 18.4MP 1-inch CMOS
- Video 1080p 60p UHD 0p
- Stabilization In-body IS
- Burst 60 fps electronic
What the Reviewers Say
All 10 expert reviews, weighted into the PixelMeter score.
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If speed and ultimate style in a compact body are your top three requirements for a new camera, there’s very little to rival the J4.
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[It's] ideal for a wide variety of shooting situations, such as sports or other action shots, but also makes it an ideal choice for anyone who simply wants to make sure they capture every moment.
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The new Nikon 1 J4 offers a lot of the features from the flagship V3 model at a much more enticing price-point, making it a better-balanced camera that's our pick of the current Nikon 1 line-up.
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The Nikon 1 J4 is a very small, very simple camera that’s great for casual shooting.
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The J4 performs well and looks good – fans of Nikon will particularly enjoy this camera, while those who aren't can enjoy an easy to use compact system camera.
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Physics is still a hard thing to beat. We still haven't found a camera with a 1-inch sensor that matches the performance of mainstream DSLRs and mirrorless cameras with sensors three times as large.
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Despite the impressive headline features found on the J4, it’s certainly got its issues.
- Digital Trends 6/10
Like we said about Samsung’s NX3000, the J4 isn’t a bad camera, but there are better options are out there – especially when you consider its convoluted user interface.
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The J4 has an intriguing mixture of strengths and weaknesses. It’s one of the smallest, most stylish CSCs around, but the Panasonic GM1 is just as small and takes better photos and videos.
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The Nikon 1 J4 is one of the rare cameras to perform at both extremes of the spectrum.
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