Nikon's AA-powered budget compact — 12MP CCD, 3.6x 37-134mm equiv lens, 3in LCD, Easy Auto, 2010.
The Nikon Coolpix L22 was a budget compact announced in February 2010 in Nikon's entry-level L series, the AA-powered 'Life' line aimed at first-time buyers. It sat alongside the smaller-screened L21 and below the long-zoom L110, and was one of the cheapest routes into the Coolpix range at the time.
It combined a 12.1-megapixel CCD sensor with a 3.6x zoom covering 37-134mm equivalent at f/3.1-6.7, and a large 3-inch LCD. There is no optical stabilisation; instead Nikon offered electronic Vibration Reduction post-processing and Motion Detection that raises ISO for faster shutter speeds. Easy Auto and Scene Auto Selector modes handled settings, storage was SD, and two AA batteries provided power at an operational weight of about 183g.
The L22 is a straightforward snapshot camera for beginners: point, shoot and let the automation decide. AA power makes it dependable for occasional users, and the big screen helps framing, but the slow telephoto aperture and lack of true optical stabilisation mean indoor and low-light results lean heavily on flash.
Running costs are low since it takes AA cells and standard SD cards, both still widely available. Check for battery-compartment corrosion, confirm the zoom extends without sticking, and inspect the large LCD for scratches. Its CCD sensor gives the slightly punchy colour some buyers now seek out in early-2010s compacts, which supports modest used demand.