Posted to Digital Cameras 2009-02-27
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ5 is Panasonic's 2008 entry into its TZ series of mid-priced consumer super-zoom compact point and shoot cameras. Replacing the DMC TZ3, it features a higher resolution sensor at 9.1 megapixels, an upgraded 3.0" LCD with a 460,000 dot resolution, and a new high-def movie mode. The DMC-TZ5 has 23 preset scene modes, offers shutter speeds from 60 seconds - 1/2000 second and an aperture range of f3.3 - f11. The unit also features and adjustable ISO range of 100 to 6400, a built-in flash with 5 modes plus red-eye reduction, and a 50MB internal memory. Other features include macro and self timer modes, adjustable white balance with 5 settings plus a custom setting, and PictBridge printer compatibility. The camera also features automatic face detection, optical image stabilization, and a 10X optical zoom range (28-280mm 35mm equivalent).
FeaturesPanasonic has managed to pack a lot of features into a relatively compact, full-metal body. The 10X zoom starts at a true wide angle and produces excellent results with little barrel distortion at wide angle and minimum pincushion at telephoto. Chromatic aberration is also kept to a minimum throughout the zoom range. The 460,000 dot 3" LCD display is the best in this class and the automatic face detection and high-def movie mode are welcome additions. The only thing to complain about here is the lack of a manual mode, but then this camera is not aimed at the enthusiast - it's definitely a user-friendly point and shoot consumer model. PerformanceThe DMC-TZ5 delivers above average performance in most areas. As mentioned previously, the Leica lens provides excellent results throughout the zoom range. And the optical image stabilization works well for those long zoom and low light shots. Shot to shot times are acceptable, and the high-def mode produces stunning movie quality. And an HDMI output allows for viewing of your images on your high-def TV as well. Image quality is above average, but the camera does suffer from Panasonic's usual overly aggressive noise reduction, particularly at higher ISO settings. The noise reduction is only apparent at lower ISO's when making very large prints, however. SummaryWhile there are less expensive long-zoom consumer compacts on the market, they don't deliver the overall build quality and level of performance of the DMC-TZ5. The all-metal body, excellent Leica lens and host of features set this camera apart from the competition. If you don't plan to make a lot of large prints (over 8"X10"), then the DMC-TZ5 is hard to beat in its class. Pros
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