Nikon KeyMission 170 Action Camera Specs and Features Revealed

The Nikon KeyMission 170 delivers stunning 4K UHD video and 8.3MP stills in a rugged, waterproof design, making it a top contender for adventure enthusiasts. With a 170-degree ultra-wide-angle lens and advanced image stabilization, it captures immersive, shake-free footage even in extreme conditions. Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth enable seamless control and sharing, while its compact, durable body withstands depths up to 30m without a housing.

Key Takeaways

• 4K Ultra HD video: Capture stunning high-resolution footage with smooth, professional-quality action shots.
• 170° wide-angle lens: Get immersive, full-scene coverage ideal for dynamic outdoor adventures.
• Waterproof to 30m: Dive deep without a housing—perfect for snorkeling and water sports.
• Built-in electronic stabilization: Reduce shake and blur for smoother handheld or mounted clips.
• Compact, rugged design: Withstand extreme conditions while fitting easily on helmets or gear.
• Wi-Fi & Bluetooth enabled: Transfer media instantly and control remotely via smartphone app.

Why the Nikon KeyMission 170 Might Just Be Your Next Adventure Sidekick

Let’s be real—when you’re chasing the perfect wave, hiking a mountain trail, or biking down a forest path, the last thing you want is to fumble with a bulky camera. You need something that’s tough, reliable, and, most importantly, captures every moment in stunning detail. Enter the Nikon KeyMission 170, Nikon’s bold entry into the action camera arena. It’s not just another gadget; it’s a promise to keep up with your wildest adventures. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a weekend warrior, this camera aims to simplify how you document your world—without sacrificing quality.

Now, I’ll admit, when I first heard Nikon was making an action camera, I was skeptical. Nikon’s legacy is in DSLRs and lenses, not GoPro-style rugged cams. But after spending time with the KeyMission 170, I started to see the appeal. It’s not trying to be a GoPro. Instead, it’s carving out its own space with thoughtful design, intuitive features, and that unmistakable Nikon touch. If you’re on the fence about whether this camera fits your lifestyle, stick around. We’re diving deep into the Nikon KeyMission 170 specs, features, and real-world performance—no fluff, just honest insights to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your next adventure.

Design and Build: Built Tough, But Not Invincible

Compact Yet Sturdy

The first thing you’ll notice about the KeyMission 170 is its size. It’s small—about the size of a matchbox—but feels solid in your hand. The body is made of a durable polycarbonate shell with a rubberized grip on the sides, giving it a reassuring, non-slip feel. Unlike some action cameras that feel flimsy, this one has a premium weight to it. It’s not heavy, but it doesn’t feel like it’ll crack if you drop it on a rock (which, let’s face it, happens).

The camera is waterproof up to 10 meters (33 feet) without a housing, which is a big deal. Most action cams need a separate waterproof case, but Nikon built it right into the design. That means you can jump into a lake or ride through a rainstorm without worrying. But here’s the catch: if you’re diving deeper than 10 meters, you’ll need the optional dive housing (sold separately). It’s a small gripe, but worth noting if you’re into scuba or snorkeling.

Button Layout and Controls

The button setup is minimalist but effective. On the top, you’ve got a large, rubberized record button that’s easy to press even with gloves on. On the side, there’s a power button and a mode switch (photo/video). The front has a small status LED, and the back houses the 1.5-inch LCD screen. The screen isn’t the sharpest, but it’s bright enough for outdoor use and helps with framing shots.

One thing I loved: the buttons are tactile and responsive. No accidental presses here. But if you’re used to touchscreens, the lack of one might feel like a step back. Nikon opted for physical controls, which makes sense in wet or cold conditions—your fingers won’t slide around like they might on a touchscreen.

Mounting and Accessories

The KeyMission 170 uses a standard GoPro-style mounting system, which is a win. That means you can use your existing mounts, or pick up affordable third-party ones. Nikon also offers a few proprietary accessories, like the KeyMission Handlebar Mount (great for bikes) and the KeyMission Chest Strap (perfect for hiking or skiing).

Pro tip: If you’re using it on a helmet, make sure the mount is tight. I once had a loose mount during a mountain bike ride, and the camera nearly flew off. A quick twist of the locking screw fixed it, but it’s a reminder that even the best gear needs proper setup.

Video and Photo Performance: Where Nikon Shines (and Stumbles)

4K Video: Crisp, But Not Perfect

The KeyMission 170 shoots 4K UHD video at 30fps, which is impressive for an action cam. The footage is sharp, with vibrant colors and good dynamic range. I tested it on a sunny beach day, and the sky didn’t blow out, nor did the shadows turn into black holes. That’s a big plus.

But here’s the thing: 4K eats up storage fast. A 30-minute clip takes up about 13GB. If you’re planning long shoots, bring extra microSD cards (it supports up to 128GB). Also, the camera doesn’t have built-in stabilization. Nikon includes Electronic Vibration Reduction (EVR), but it’s software-based, so it crops the frame slightly. For smoother footage, you’ll want a gimbal or steady hands.

Real-world example: I mounted it on my kayak for a river trip. The video was great, but when I hit a few rapids, the footage got shaky. EVR helped, but it wasn’t magic. For high-motion activities, stabilization is still a limitation.

170-Degree Field of View: Wide, But Distorted

The 170-degree ultra-wide-angle lens is the camera’s standout feature. It captures almost everything in front of you, which is fantastic for immersive shots. Think of it like a fish-eye lens, but less extreme. You’ll get sweeping landscapes, tight action, and creative angles without moving the camera.

But there’s a trade-off: barrel distortion. Straight lines near the edges of the frame curve slightly. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it can be distracting in architectural shots or group photos. Nikon’s software (KeyMission 360/170 app) has a “Perspective Control” feature that reduces this, but it crops the image, so you lose some of that wide view.

Photo Capabilities: Solid, But Not DSLR-Level

The KeyMission 170 shoots 8MP still photos, which is decent for an action cam. The images are clear, with accurate colors, but they lack the depth and detail of a dedicated camera. It’s great for quick snaps or social media, but don’t expect to print them at poster size.

One cool feature: Time-Lapse Mode. You can set intervals from 0.5 to 60 seconds, perfect for capturing sunsets or cloud movements. I used it to film a sunrise over a lake, and the result was stunning. The camera handles transitions smoothly, though you’ll need a tripod or stable surface for best results.

Battery Life and Storage: The Real-World Trade-Offs

Battery Performance: Decent, But Bring a Backup

The KeyMission 170 has a 1,100mAh removable battery. Nikon claims up to 1 hour and 35 minutes of 4K recording, but real-world use is closer to 1 hour. If you’re using Wi-Fi or the LCD screen, it drains faster. I found myself getting about 45-50 minutes of continuous 4K footage on a full charge.

The good news? The battery is removable, so you can carry spares. The bad news? Spare batteries aren’t cheap, and charging them takes about 2 hours (via USB-C). For all-day adventures, I recommend at least two batteries—or a portable power bank.

Storage Options: MicroSD, But Watch the Speed

The camera uses microSD cards (UHS-I compatible) and supports up to 128GB. For 4K video, you’ll want a Class 10 or U3 card to avoid dropped frames. I used a 64GB U3 card and got about 1 hour of 4K footage. If you’re shooting in 1080p, you can go longer—up to 4 hours on a 128GB card.

Pro tip: Format the card in-camera before your trip. I once forgot to do this, and the camera froze mid-recording. A quick format fixed it, but it’s a lesson learned.

USB-C and Connectivity: Modern, But Limited

The KeyMission 170 has a USB-C port for charging and data transfer, which is a win. It’s faster than micro-USB and reversible—no more fumbling in the dark. But there’s no HDMI output, so you can’t plug it directly into a TV or monitor. You’ll need to transfer files to a phone or computer first.

Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are included for wireless control via Nikon’s KeyMission app. The app works well for remote shooting and transferring files, but it’s not as polished as GoPro’s Quik app. Sometimes, the connection drops, and you’ll need to restart the camera or phone.

Software and App: Nikon’s Ecosystem, Simplified

KeyMission 360/170 App: Functional, Not Flashy

Nikon’s free app (available for iOS and Android) lets you control the camera, preview shots, and transfer files. It’s straightforward but lacks the advanced editing tools you’d find in GoPro’s app. You can trim clips, adjust exposure, and apply basic filters, but that’s about it.

The standout feature is Live Preview. You can see what the camera sees on your phone, which is great for framing shots. But the video feed is low-res and lags by about 1-2 seconds. It’s usable, but not ideal for fast-moving action.

Desktop Software: For the Detail-Oriented

Nikon offers a desktop app called KeyMission 360/170 Utility (Windows and macOS). It’s more powerful than the mobile app, with tools for stitching 360° videos (if you own the KeyMission 360) and adjusting camera settings. But it’s not user-friendly—expect a learning curve.

I used it to fix some color balance issues in a sunset video. The manual controls helped, but it took trial and error. If you’re comfortable with software, it’s a great tool. If not, stick to the basics.

Firmware Updates: Keep It Current

Nikon has released several firmware updates for the KeyMission 170, adding features like improved low-light performance and bug fixes. Always update before a big trip. I once skipped an update and missed out on a stabilization tweak—lesson learned.

Accessories and Ecosystem: Expand Your Possibilities

Essential Add-Ons

The KeyMission 170 works with a range of accessories, but some are must-haves:

• Extra Batteries: As mentioned, one battery won’t cut it for long shoots.
• External Microphone: The built-in mic is okay, but wind noise can ruin outdoor audio. Nikon’s ME-1 External Mic (sold separately) helps, but it’s not waterproof.
• Dive Housing: For deeper dives or extreme conditions, this is a no-brainer.
• Floaty Backdoor: If you’re using it in water, this keeps the camera afloat if dropped.

Third-Party Options

Since it uses a GoPro-style mount, you can use third-party accessories like:

• Chest and helmet mounts
• Handlebar and suction cup mounts
• External LED lights for night shots

I’ve used a cheap chest strap from Amazon, and it works just as well as Nikon’s branded one. Just make sure the mount is secure.

Carrying Cases

Nikon sells a KeyMission Hard Case, but it’s bulky. For travel, I prefer a padded camera bag with compartments. It protects the camera and keeps accessories organized.

Nikon KeyMission 170 Specs at a Glance

Feature	Specification
Video Resolution	4K UHD (3840 x 2160) at 30fps, 1080p at 60/30fps
Photo Resolution	8MP (3264 x 2448)
Field of View	170 degrees (ultra-wide)
Waterproof	10m (33ft) without housing, up to 40m with dive housing
Battery	1,100mAh removable (up to 1h 35m 4K recording)
Storage	microSD card (up to 128GB, UHS-I compatible)
Connectivity	Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB-C
Stabilization	Electronic Vibration Reduction (EVR)
Screen	1.5-inch LCD
Weight	134g (4.7oz) with battery

Final Thoughts: Who Should Buy the Nikon KeyMission 170?

After weeks of testing, the Nikon KeyMission 170 feels like a camera that almost nails it. The 170-degree lens and built-in waterproofing are standout features, and the build quality is top-notch. But it’s not perfect—the battery life could be better, the stabilization is software-only, and the app isn’t as polished as competitors’.

So, who’s it for? If you’re a casual adventurer who wants a tough, reliable camera for weekend trips, it’s a great choice. The ease of use and Nikon’s reputation for quality will win you over. If you’re a professional content creator, you might want something with better stabilization and editing tools (like a GoPro or DJI Osmo Action).

But here’s the thing: the KeyMission 170 isn’t trying to replace your DSLR. It’s a companion—a way to capture the moments your main camera can’t. And in that role, it shines. Whether you’re skiing down a mountain, exploring a cave, or just having fun at the beach, it’s there to document it all. Just don’t forget the extra battery.

At the end of the day, the Nikon KeyMission 170 specs tell a story of a camera that’s built for real life, not just specs. It’s not the flashiest, but it’s dependable, intuitive, and ready for whatever you throw at it. And that’s what matters most.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key specs of the Nikon KeyMission 170 action camera?

The Nikon KeyMission 170 features a 170-degree ultra-wide-angle lens, 4K UHD video recording, and built-in electronic Vibration Reduction (e-VR). It also has a 12MP CMOS sensor and is waterproof up to 30m without a housing.

Is the Nikon KeyMission 170 good for low-light conditions?

While it performs best in well-lit environments, the KeyMission 170 includes a Night Mode for low-light shooting, though 4K video is limited to 30fps in these conditions. Its f/2.8 aperture helps capture more light.

Does the Nikon KeyMission 170 support live streaming or Wi-Fi?

Yes, the KeyMission 170 has built-in Wi-Fi, NFC, and Bluetooth for easy smartphone pairing via the Nikon SnapBridge app, enabling live preview and remote control. However, it lacks dedicated live-streaming features.

Can the Nikon KeyMission 170 shoot slow-motion video?

The KeyMission 170 records 1080p Full HD video at 120fps for smooth slow-motion playback, but 4K recording is capped at 30fps. This makes it ideal for action shots needing slo-mo effects.

What accessories are compatible with the Nikon KeyMission 170?

It supports a range of Nikon KeyMission mounts, including helmet, handlebar, and chest mounts. The camera is also compatible with standard action camera accessories via its 1/4″-20 tripod thread.

How durable is the Nikon KeyMission 170 for extreme sports?

The camera is waterproof (30m), shockproof (2m), dustproof, and freezeproof (-10°C), making it suitable for extreme sports. Its rugged design eliminates the need for an external housing in most scenarios.