Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ100 Digital Camera

ReviewGist Report for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ100

Overview

Released in July 2010, Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ100 Digital Camera is more versatile compared with the older models DMC-FZ35*1, according to Panasonic. Here we divulge the new technologies that make FZ100 a premium product, and take a critical look at the trade-offs the new technologies has brought. We review 29 Digital Camera Reviews, from leading review sites and sum-up their findings.

What the Manufacturer Says

Compared to older models FZ35*1, FZ100 has an extended optical zoom range from 27mm to 25mm at wide end and the zoom power has increased from 18x to 24x, thanks to the new LEICA DC VARIO-ELMARIT Lens.

With the release of FZ100, Panasonic boasts of some new techonolgies:
1) 14.1-megapixel MOS sensor - for high quality 1920x1080 HD movie, and faster burst speed
2) Image Processing LSI the Venus Engine - for high picture quality in both photo and movie recording

Other remarkable features presented by Panasonic with FZ100 includes:
1) Intelligent Resolution Technology - for extending the 24x optical zoom to 32x
2) Sonic Speed AF - for fastest level of response available in market, to "catch even the most fleeting photo opportunities"
2) Motion Deblur - with high shutter speed prevents any kind of blur, even when the subject is in motion
3) 3.0-inch free-angle LCD screen
4) Record video, while taking pictures simultaneously

And when all seems too confusing for an amateur, there is 'The Happy Mode', that takes care of color, saturation and brightness by itself, and allows the user to make both photo and movie vivid enough to the true color of the scene.

What the Reviews Say

Even though most experts approved the image quality of the FZ100, quite a few have found it to be soft and lacking detail throughout the ISO range. The high image quality has been found in the ISO range of 100-400 only; and some interlacing was also noticed in video when subjects move while the camera pans.

Most reviewers have approved of the video quality, but not all. Digital Trends specifically finds the video quality â??underwhelmingâ??. CNet also reports some obvious interlacing while watching moving subjects pan across the plane.

Cameralabs has given accolades to the fast burst speed, "providing the kind of performance that puts many DSLRs in the shade." According to Digital Camera HQ, the zoom features of 24x with fast burst speed and combined with quick auto-focus, makes FZ 100 an ideal camera for sports-fans, as it can capture some fast action with a good clarity (no blur) even from the stands.

Almost all reviews were quite fascinated by the compact body and the solid build quality of the FZ100, though some experts find it a bit bulky. However, the menu system received mixed results. Some of our experts including those from the highly respected CNet found the menu system a tad bit confusing. The LCD clarity and ease of use has also recieved high praise from all quarters.

The battery life has been rated excellent by most of the experts. Photography Blog reports a very respectable 400 shots with the supplied battery.

The 'ReviewGist'

The capability to shoot pictures, while simultaneously recording high resolution 1080p video with effective image stabilizer, has made FZ 100 a clear heart-winner among the reviewers. However, Panasonic's claims of overall good image quality doesnâ??t pass muster with the experts, especially at ISO levels greater than 400.

Buying Advice

FZ 100 is an easy point-to-shoot super zoom camera and with faster burst speed it is ideal for shooting fast action pictures.

However, consumers should also check out the Fujifilm HS10 which has similar features but may cost quite less.