Value (7.0)
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX5 is a compact and easily portable camera, capable of both still and movie image capture. It comes equipped with a 3x optical zoom and a 4.2 megapixel CCD that measures 1/2.5 inches. Luckily, even with the small camera body, Panasonic left the LCD screen at a reasonable 1.5 inches. Its MSRP of $449.95 fares well when compared with similarly priced models. This camera is best for the user already comfortable with both the menus and functions of other digital cameras. The true justification in this price is the image quality that the camera will produce. Largely indebted to its Leica lens, the Panasonic Lumix FX5 exceeds most point and shoot imagers in terms of image quality and is reflected in the price; however, if quality in a sleek, compact package is of utter importance to you, this camera may be for you.

Comparisons
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T1 - The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T1 has a 5.1 MP CCD and retails for a comparable $499.99. With a 2.5-inch LCD screen, the camera itself is equipped with a Carl Zeiss lens, and has the possibility to fit easily into a pocket, perfect for people needing a lightweight camera with hybrid potential. The 3x optical zoom and 2x digital zoom are about average for a compact camera. The camera automatically adjusts the Focus, White Balance and Exposure. Manual controls appear to have been forsaken for size and sleek design, which is also the case with the Panasonic DMC-FX5. Images are captured on memory sticks in JPEG format for still shots, and MPEG format for video capture at 30 frames per second.

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-F1S - Containing a listed MSRP of $399.95, Panasonic's DMC-F1S is one step below the Lumix FX5. With an optical zoom of 3x and a 1/2.5-inch 3.34 MP CCD, it is capable of recording still images in four sizes, with motion images in a 320 x 240 format. Focus, ISO, and White Balance are all both automatic and manual, with control settings available through both button and menu settings. It is possible to set five seconds of audio to a still image using the DMC-F1S. This Panasonic model is equipped with a similar 1.5-inch LCD screen.

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-LC5S - Priced at $699.95, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LC5S is equipped with a sizable 2.5-inch LCD screen. It has a 3x optical zoom, and is capable of recording images in four formats for still frames, and one format for motion images. Focus, White Balance, Exposure, and Flash are all manual as well as automatic. The CCD is sized at 1/1.76 inches with 4.01 total megapixels with a complementary color filter. The major downfall for this model is its weight: an even pound, making it a camera for the user who wants the reminder that they have a camera with them at all times.

Who It's For
Point-and-Shooters- For the point-and-shooter, this camera may present a bit of a challenge with the on-screen menus. However, if a user is patient and literate, these problems can be overcome.

Budget Consumers- For the budget buyer in us all, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX5 pairs good looks with manual controls, image quality and automatic presets, making this camera alluring. With the ease of portability, the FX5 is simple for packing or carrying. The price is steep, but justifiable for the right type of user.

Gadget freaks- The on-screen menus will allow for an extensive amount of playtime, and the camera is not likely to bore you for a while. The sleek design, comfortable fit, and black-trimmed LCD screen all work to give this camera points in the visuals department. However, the Mode Dial is a bit dated in appearance, and could do with some reconsideration and some engineering edge.

Manual control freaks- This camera has the settings, but finding them could be a task. After the hassle, there are few manual options found. In this price range, there are better options.

Pros/serious hobbyists- Perhaps it's a good choice if you need a second camera for remote events or for when you want a good-looking camera without the ostentatious trappings of a professional model. The FX5 is a good choice for when portability and weight are primary factors.