Review of the Panasonic Lumix DMC FX100

www.panasonic.co.uk Compact cameras with ultra-high 12MP sensors have been on the near-horizon for a while, and with Panasonic’s Lumix FX100 the wait is over. But do we really need more pixels? FEATURES To accommodate 12.2 million pixels Panasonic has sensibly increased the size of the FX100’s CCD so, although the pixel count has increased, the pixels themselves are the same size as those in its 7MP models. The larger sensor has also meant a new lens design, with Panasonic opting for a 28-100mm equivalent Leica zoom with Mega OIS Image Stabilisation. In use, Program, Auto and 20 scene modes provide point-and-shoot simplicity, with a maximum ISO 1600 rising to ISO 6400 if you accept 3MP files. Switching to 3MP capture also enables a shooting rate of eight frames per second, compared with one to two frames at the maximum resolution. DESIGN Cast in the classic Lumix mould, the FX100 has a solid, but minimal metal shell that’s available in champagne, black and gunmetal silver finishes. A subtly redesigned rear control cluster keeps things neat yet functional, with a bright 2.5in LCD taking care of preview and playback. In addition, the FX100 features Panasonic’s ‘Easy Zoom’ button which takes the lens from its widest to longest focal length (and back again) with a single button push. PERFORMANCE There’s a couple of seconds’ hesitation on start-up and a similar pause between shots when taking and reviewing them. However, that’s excusable given the large amount of data the FX100’s dealing with and there are no complaints with the AF – in nine-point mode it’s accurate, though not immediate, with the one-point or three-point high speed modes helping to speed things up. VALUE There’s a price to pay for 12MP – in this case just over £300 – which seems quite high given the camera’s otherwise modest point-and-shoot spec. VERDICT With so many pixels, image noise was ourbiggest worry, but Panasonic has overcome this. As a result, the great image quality and gorgeous design make the FX100 another winning camera in the Lumix line-up. What Digital Camera Score 86%