Panasonic Lumix DMC-G2 Digital Camera with 14-42 mm lens

ReviewGist Report for Panasonic Lumix DMC-G2

Overview

In March 2010, Panasonic presented an addition to their extensive line of compact cameras: the LUMIX G2. This report will cover the prime attributes that Panasonic has loaded in this compact. We then integrate several reviews from around 33 different digital camera expert sites including Imaging Resource, CNet, Good Gear Guide and more. Further we analyze the competitive landscape and offer you some buying advice.

What the Manufacturer Says

As the LUMIX G1 has broken ground when it pioneered the Micro Four Thirds platform, Panasonic introduces yet another breakthrough with the LUMIX G2. It's touted as the world's first digital interchangeable lens system camera with an adjustable LCD in full touch-screen technology. The touch panel display is claimed to allow faster and easier navigation and operation. Whether shooting a scene or reviewing stored images, Panasonic guarantees full execution of commands just by quick and simple touches on its 3.0-inch 460k-resolution monitor. And what's more is that this LCD can be rotated at 180 degrees, widening the user's view range.

Besides that, the LUMIX G2 also boasts a High-Definition Video System that records 1280 x 720 movie clips in a convenient AVCHD Lite format. It's not only the resolution that is claimed to be of superb quality but the audio as well, which is boosted by the built-in Dolby Digital Creator. Shooting in windy conditions where the air creates unnecessary noise wouldn't be a nuisance with the LUMIX G2 as it possesses the Wind Cut Function to address that problem.

This compact camera also features the following:
1. LUMIX G VARIO ASPH/MEGA O.I.S. lens with a zoom range of 14-42 mm
2. Venus Engine HD II, innovated to support Intelligent Resolution technology which ensures effective blur and noise reduction and utmost sharpness of images
3. "P" Mode for an enhanced video effect and "My Color" mode that consists of presets: Silhouette, Expressive, Elegant, Monochrome, Pure, Retro and Dynamic Art
4. Dust Reduction System which has, at its core, a supersonic wave filter to prevent dust accumulation in the lens that blemishes photos.
5. PHOTOfunSTUDIO 5.0 HD Edition software for organization of image files and an integrated YouTube uploader

What the Reviews Say

Most experts remarked about the excellent quality of images captured by the LUMIX G2, mainly underlining the accuracy of colors, exposure and details. However, some declared that image quality varies in different ISO settings. 'Imaging Resource' asserts that at an ISO of 6400, colors are smudged by noise. Similarly, based on CNet and Consumer Search's observations, images are grainier from mid to high ISO settings.

The LUMIX G2's video function was received positively by reviewers. They have all claimed that the videos recorded were crisp and sharp and truly defined. 'Hardware Zone' points out that it has a significant feature that DSLR video cameras lack: active auto-focus during video recording.

The G2's lens performance was heavily lauded by the reviews, as they've commented that the LUMIX G2 has an intelligent focusing system. Much praise was given to its electronic viewfinder (EVF), especially with regards to its sharpness. 'Digital Camera Review' made mention that the EVF is instantly activated upon positioning the camera to eye level. However, 'Dpexpert' remarked otherwise, pointing that the EVF's performance cannot parallel that of the typical SLR.

While the focusing system itself was deemed commendable by experts, its integration into the camera's touchpanel monitor was viewed as a problem.

According to majority of the reviews, the LUMIX G2's operation is made easy and simple through its touch screen technology. 'Good Gear Guide' commented that manual focusing is simpler on the LCD touch panel. Dedicated buttons for chief camera functions are readily available upon user preference. 'DCRP' and 'PC World' stressed though that those with large fingers wouldn't share the same convenience.

Simply put, the LUMIX G3's battery life is claimed to be fairly adequate by most of the reviewers.

Experts have found that noise is increased in images captured at high ISOs, most noticeably at ISOs greater than 400 and especially at 3200, as observed by 'Photo review' and 'Good Gear Guide.'

The 'ReviewGist'

After rounding up all significant reviews, it can be attested that Panasonic has indeed made substantial improvements over the Panasonic G1 with the Panasonic G2.

The great photo quality mainly due to images' remarkable color fidelity and detail precision combined with the built-in EVF and the versatile articulating touch-screen makes it a very compelling choice.

Buying Advice

The Lumix G2, albeit a bit pricey like other Micro Four Thirds, fits a very sweet spot for the discerning enthusiast photographer looking for a great quality yet easy to lug around photography solution.

One option to definitely check out is the Sony NEX-5 which is claimed to produce sharp, noise-free photos even at high ISO sensitivities.

The other contenders in the interchangeable-lens-but-compact space include the Pentax K-x, Samsung NX10 and the Nikon D5000.