Review of the Panasonic Lumix FZ18

Features
The Lumix FZ18 is the latest weapon of choice from the company, sporting an 18x optical zoom (28-504mm equiv.), full manual control and a feature list to drool over. An 8MP sensor is driven by a Venus III processing engine, while Mega OIS image stabilisation accompanies the lens. A new Intelligent Auto mode picks up where the Intelligent ISO mode left off, by simultaneously selecting the appropriate ISO, stabilisation, scene mode and, where necessary, face detection settings, the latter of which are able to detect up to 15 faces per shot and track them continuously. The same Raw mode as featured on the FZ8 is present and is joined by a simultaneous Raw and JPEG shooting option, while a competent selection of metering and autofocus options round off the spec.

Handling
The design and build of the camera follows that of previous FZ models. The grip has been extended to included a dedicated thumb pad while the familiar joystick allows for the manual adjustment of focusing, exposure values and white balance. Design-wise it’s hard to fault the camera, though its plasticky build – while by no means unexpected – could have been revised into a more solid construction, which would really elevate it above its bridge rivals.

Performance
Start-up time is by no means bad, with focusing times displaying a similar performance. The review button’s position on the mode dial makes image playback a little more difficult than it should be, but again, this is no big thing. One bonus comes in the form of the 3fps burst mode, allowing you to shoot at the highest resolution until the card is full.

Value
For what you’re getting, the camera’s £329 RRP represents better value for money than equivalent models from Canon and Olympus.
Our Verdict
Panasonic has really outdone itself with the FZ18. It’s not without its flaws, but all the features you need and a good standard of images make it one of the best current bridge options on the market.

What We Like
Range of features, Design, Image quality at low ISO

What We Don't Like
Plasticky build, Noise throughout range, Highlight control

Features: 19
Design: 18
Performance: 18
Image Quality: 17
Value: 18
What Digital Camera Score 90%