Design

Panasonic Lumix TZ30 review – Design

Considering the TZ30’s sizeable zoom the camera is very pocket-friendly. Straight out of the box and there’s little difference to be seen when compared to the TZ20: the design is simple and functional, yet carries an appealing style.

A premium finish includes all-metal buttons and a mode dial which gives the camera a well-made, high end feel.

The TZ30’s lens sits inside the body when the camera is turned off, making it ideal to carry around anywhere. The three-section lens is sizeable when extended to its longest zoom, though isn’t disproportional.

Controlling the camera can be approached in the conventional way by using dials and buttons, or the inclusion of touchscreen LCD technology makes for easy point-and-press control.

There’s also a Q.Menu button on the rear of the camera to bring up the most common options on screen for immediate adjustment – though it’s not possible to use the touchscreen to select these options, instead the d-pad and OK buttons are used to control selection. Not a huge issue, though the G-series cameras have a more hands-on approach when controlling all avenues.

Overall the TZ30 is a well-proportioned compact. It may not include DSLR-like style thumbwheels or manual lens control, but for a consumer compact it’s on the approach to perfection.