Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX40 Review

3.5

July 15, 2009 | Gavin Stoker |

Buy a Lumix DMC-FX40 12.1 Megapixel Compact Camera - Black (6.4 cm 2.5" LCD - 5x Optical Zoom - 4000 x 3000 Image - 1280 x 720 Video - HD Movie Mode)

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Buy a Lumix DMC-FX48 12.1 Megapixel Compact Camera - Black (2.5" LCD - 5x Optical Zoom - 4000 x 3000 Image - 848 x 480 Video - PictBridge)

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Conclusion

If you want a compact camera that will allow you to merely point and shoot and, under most conditions, achieve results that won't need adjustment afterwards, then the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX40 fits the bill as a neat and not unstylish solution to slip into your top pocket when heading out for the day.

The DMC-FX40's ultra wide-angle 25mm lens comes in handy for landscape shots, and the 125mm equivalent telephoto reach allows the user to bring the action marginally closer without taking a step forward. OK, coming after our use of Samsung's 10x zoom WB550 compact on test, there were times when we wished we had a bit more lens power still. But a 5x reach at least matches rivals from Sony's Cyber-shot range, such as the T90 and T900.

Ultimately though, we preferred the handling of the similarly specified FX550 over the FX40 - and that model's best of both worlds' mix of touch screen and physical button operation. Coming to the DMC-FX40 it felt like a step back - and since its bigger brother can be found for £230 online, we'd recommend your cash is better spent on that model if a camera that's equally portable but even more user friendly and, for us, reliable, appeals. In comparison the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX40 can only feel, well, pretty average, hence its overall score.