Size and weight are big decision factors when you are trying to find the ideal camera for your needs.
In this section, we are going to illustrate the Nikon L21 and Nikon 1 V1 side-by-side from the front, back and top in their relative dimensions. Nikon L21 has external dimensions of 92 x 67 x 28 mm (3.62 x 2.64 x 1.1″) and weighs 169 g (0.37 lb / 5.96 oz) (including batteries). Nikon 1 V1 has external dimensions of 113 x 76 x 44 mm (4.45 x 2.99 x 1.71″) and weighs 383 g (0.84 lb / 13.51 oz) (including batteries).
Below you can see the front-view size comparison of the Nikon L21 and the Nikon 1 V1. Nikon L21 is clearly the smaller of the two cameras. Its body is 21mm narrower, 9mm shorter and 16mm thinner than Nikon 1 V1. As you can tell, actually this is not a fair size comparison since Nikon L21 has a built-in lens but Nikon 1 V1 doesn't. Once you put a lens on 1 V1, its thickness will increase significantly.
Weight is another important factor, especially when deciding on a camera that you want to carry with you all day.
Nikon L21 is significantly lighter (214g ) than the Nikon 1 V1 which may become a big advantage especially on long walking trips.
Again, this comparison may not be very useful in real life as we are comparing the weight of a camera with a built-in lens to the body-only weight of an interchangeable lens camera. Once you put a lens on 1 V1, the total kit will weigh much higher.
Weather Sealing
Unfortunately neither the Nikon Coolpix L21 nor Nikon 1 V1 provides any type of weather sealing in their bodies, so you have to give extra care especially when you are shooting outdoors. If weather sealing is a must-have feature for you, check these sections: Top Compact Cameras with Weather Sealing Top Mirrorless Cameras with Weather Sealing
LCD Screen Size and Features
Nikon 1 V1's 3.00" LCD screen is slightly larger than Nikon L21's 2.5" screen.
Unfortunately, both cameras has fixed screens so they don't tilt or flip in directions.