Nikon jumps into the premium compact arena with DX-format Coolpix A

Nikon has announced the Coolpix A, its first truly advanced digital compact camera. The headline feature is its 16.2-megapixel DX-format sensor, the same size as found in most of the company’s DSLRs and far bigger than the 1-inch CX format used in the 1 mirrorless cameras. While not as big as the full-frame sensor found in Sony’s RX1, it beats out that same company’s RX100 and is comparable to the Fujifilm X100s.

The sensor is paired with a fixed 18.5mm (28mm equivalent) f/2.8 prime lens that the company says will offer excellent sharpness and blurred backgrounds, though that effect won’t be too dramatic at such a wide angle. The A will be available in black and silver this month for $1,099.95 alongside accessories such as a $449.96 optical viewfinder.