| Likes |
-Attractive design
-Optical image stabilization
-Large 3-inch LCD
-Easy to read menu system
-Fast, accurate autofocus
-Three aspect shooting ratios (16:9, 4;3, 3:2) |
| Dislikes |
-Tiny buttons and lack of main mode dial
-Ineffective joystick control instead of a four-way controller
-Lack of comfortable grip / handling that previous Panasonic point-and-shoots possess
-Limited manual controls
-Near-$300 price tag |
Conclusion
Our first impressions of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS20 are that it makes an unexciting entry into the pocket digital camera market. It does, though, earn some major points for looks and a generous 3-inch LCD, optical image stabilization, wide 16:9 shooting, and an impressively easy menu system.
The FS20, however, needs more attention-grabbing features to compete with other cameras at this price point, such as the Canon SD1100 IS and the Olympus Stylus 1020. It lacks the comfortable handling associated with past Panasonic cameras. There are limited manual controls that most advanced point-and-shooters at this price point would desire. It might be worth it at a lower price, but at $299.95, it’s simply not enough to win over customers. |
