Panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ5 Review

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ5 is a new compact digital camera that is positioned in the middle of Panasonic’s range for 2006. That’s not to say that the LZ5 is in any way mundane - in the usual Panasonic tradition of innovative products, the 6 megapixel DMC-LZ5 offers a 6x optical zoom lens, equivalent to 37-222mm in 35mm format. Other stand-out features include a large 2.5 inch LCD screen, optical image stabilisation for blur-free photos, and a new High Sensitivity mode that extends the ISO range to 1600. Find out if this all adds up to make a great camera by reading my review of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ5.

Website: Panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ5 Review

Published: Saturday, February 25, 2006

Reader Comments

1. Mark, it may just be me, so take this FWIW, but I am finding it difficult
   to discern the noise levels of the 100% ISO crops in the Image Quality
   section of your reviews, mainly because I'm not sure if what I'm seeing
   constitutes noise or actual image detail. Is there a reason why you use
   these particular crops as opposed to solid gray or colored squares?
   
   BTW, do you know if the LZ5's CCD is the same as used in the FX01?

   GARY POGODA at 08:56pm on Wednesday, February 22, 2006

2. Excellent review. I have hunted for a review since I learnt that was a new Lumix LZ5, starting in my home country Germany - no succuss so far, you made the race! I found all the information I needed, also the waek spots, and I am happy that I can make up my mind before the LZ5 has arrived in the shops here in Germany. Thank you!
   Heinz

   Heinz at 07:21pm on Thursday, February 23, 2006

3. Gary, I really think your knowledge and expertise could be used in the forums here. I know it has helped me a lot since I have been here.
   
   Please read my post in the General - Open Discussion forum.
   
   I realise it is probably inappropriate to contact you through here, but I have no other way to do it.
   
   Thanks

   Paul at 08:15pm on Saturday, February 25, 2006

4. Thank you, Paul, for the kind words, but the truth of the matter is, I
   consider the discussion forums a separate entity from these threads,
   practically an entirely different blog, and if there's one thing I'm not,
   it's a polybloggerist. I remain faithful to one blog, and only one blog.
   
   Besides, my wives wouldn't hear of it.

   GARY POGODA at 01:06pm on Sunday, February 26, 2006

5. Very informative review, I love this cameras image stabilization and 6x zoom, but your comments on image quality are making me very hesitant in purchasing this camera. I have 2 trips planned this summer (europe, and Yukon, Canada) and I need the ability to blow up pictures without deterioating picture quality. I was wondering if you could please recommend a similar camera(s) in the same price range but with better image quality.
   Thank you for your time

   Duncan at 05:35am on Tuesday, March 14, 2006

6. Thank you very much for your very helpful and detailed review. I am about to purchase my first digital camera (my great rather elderly 35 mm has decided enough is enough) and I'm trying to wend my way through all the jargon attached to buying a digital. I found your review much easier to understand than those in the many magazines I have purchased. I will now have a read through some of your other reviews on different cameras before making up my mind. Thank you again.

   Catherine Jarvis at 06:29pm on Tuesday, March 28, 2006

7. Thanks Catherine and Duncan - I'm glad you found the review so helpful

   Mark Goldstein at 03:15pm on Wednesday, March 29, 2006

8. This is one of the best damn reviews I've ever read. Thanks for being so thorough and for providing sample images at different setting! You rock!

   Joy at 08:43pm on Sunday, May 28, 2006

9. Hi,
   Thanks for a very thorough and informative review.
   
   Paddy

   Paddy at 10:41pm on Saturday, February 16, 2008