Value & Verdict

Panasonic Lumix FZ48 review – Value

The first FZ48 shipment is retailing for around £320 in a number of online stores, positioning the model at a similar or more affordable level to much of the competition. The Nikon P500 and Fuji HS20 are both available for a similar sum, while the Canon SX30 IS and Sony HX100V are available somewhere inside the £350-400 range.

The Panasonic may not offer as long a zoom as those other models, yet its fast autofocus system provides an alternative value.

Panasonic Lumix FZ48 review – Verdict

The Lumix FZ48’s fast autofocus is its premier feature, capable of attaining focus in little time. Other features are equally impressive – the LCD screen looks great in playback and has a wide angle of view, plus the movie mode allows for a good level of recording control.

However the lack of Raw shooting does axe one of the top features from the previous FZ45 model, and the FZ48’s final image quality, although well exposed and supported by an excellent image stabilisation system, isn’t quite able to quite match up to the finer detail from the likes of the Fuji HS20. For images used at less than full size this will go largely unnoticed in most instances.

For a compact superzoom with a long-reaching zoom the FZ48 has plenty on offer and is competitively prices. It’s easy to use whatever your level, has an effective layout and an autofocus system that puts the majority of the competition to shame.