The Nikon AW-1 Is an Action Star With a Brain

Finally, a DSLR that can take a great picture and a beating.

When it comes to outdoor photography, durability and photo quality don’t often go hand in hand. You’re stuck babying a delicate DSLR or limiting your photo options with one of the “tough” point-and-shoot cameras on the market. Nikon blends the best of both worlds with the AW-1 mirrorless, interchangeable lens camera.

Its durability (withstands drops up to 6 feet, water to a depth of 60 feet for 60 minutes, temperatures from 14F to 104F) gives it adventure cred, but this camera – with 60fps continuous shooting, 1920 x 1080/60i video, 1-ich, 14.2mp CMOS sensor, captures both RAW and JPEG – is a tool for serious photographers. The proof is in the pixels: Our shots came out consistently sharp and stable. It comes with a 1 NIKKOR AW 11-27.5mm f/3.5-5.6 lens, one of Nikon’s two waterproof and shockproof lenses, but any Nikon 1 lens will fit on the body. Plus the one-handed menu system is perfect for changing settings quickly. It’s proof that burly can have brains. [$799 with one-lens; nikonusa.com]