Panasonic Lumix DMC-LS70

Value (7.75)
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-LS70 had an initial price of $149, but since its release in February can be found online for around $125. The DMC-LS70 comes with a 7.2 MP CCD, a 2-inch LCD screen, 27 MB of internal memory, SD/MMC memory card slot, 3x optical zoom lens, and an interface and shooting modes that will definitely appeal to the novices. However, the distinguishing feature that makes the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LS70 stand out from the flooded low-end point-and-shoot digital camera market is the inclusion of its MEGA optical image stabilization system.

Comparisons
Canon PowerShot A550 – The Canon PowerShot A550 was released earlier this year and will provide stiff competition for the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LS70. The A550 has a 7.1 MP CCD, 2-inch LCD screen, real-image optical viewfinder, a 4x optical zoom lens, a number of manual controls, and a 16MB memory card all originally for $199 and now available for slightly more than the DMC-LS70 online. This camera also has the ability to record audio and video at full resolution and can capture video files at a fast 60 fps frame rate, which outshines the Lumix DMC-LS70. The A550 has an abbreviated list of custom image presets in comparison to the plethora of options with the DMC-LS70, which is bound to be a setback for the novice user looking for shooting modes to bridge the gap between full auto and manual controls. Also, if users are concerned about the handling issues discussed in this review, the Canon PowerShot A550 might be a great alternative due to the pronounced right hand grip that will aid in one- and two-handed shooting.


Sony Cyber-shot DSC-S700 – This Cyber-shot sells for the same price as the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LS70 and is equipped with a 7.2 MP CCD, a Carl Zeiss 3x optical zoom lens, 24 MB of internal flash memory, high ISO of 1000, a 2.4-inch LCD screen, and a Movie mode with audio recording. The Movie mode is underwhelming when compared to the DMC-LS70 and shoots at 30 fps at a maximum resolution of 320 x 240. The S700 comes with manual controls comparable to those found with the DMC-LS70. For consumers unimpressed by the styling and design of lower-priced point-and-shoot cameras, the Cyber-shot DSC-S700 should be a welcome relief with its all-metal brushed silver body. One drawback that always comes up with Sony electronics is their reliance upon proprietary media, and in this case users will have to purchase Memory Stick DUO PRO media cards to maximize the camera's performance. 


Nikon Coolpix L3 – The Coolpix L3 is a small point-and-shoot digital camera that is part of Nikon’s "Life" series, and can be found for around $149.95. The camera was released last year, which means it can be found online for much less. This camera has the lowest pixel count at 5.1 MP but has some features that may appeal to the point-and-shoot consumer on a budget. The Coolpix L3 has 15 preset shooting modes, video recording at 640x480 at 30 fps maximum, a face-priority auto focus mode, and an in-camera D-Lighting setting for lightening underexposed images. Other features include a 3x optical zoom lens, 2-inch LCD screen with 86,000 pixels, 32 MB of internal memory, and SD/MMC memory cards for additional memory storage. Of the cameras compared here, the L3 is likely to win the award for most boring design, with its dull external body and mundane, matte silver color.

Who It’s For
Point-and-Shooters – Point-and-shoot users will definitely be interested in this reasonably-priced $149 digital camera by Panasonic with its simple external layout, logical menu system and features such as a 2-inch LCD, optical image stabilization system, and 27 MB of internal memory.

Budget Consumers – For the budget consumer, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LS70 is attractive with its initial price of $149.99. The camera comes with features not normally found at this price, including an optical image stabilization system.

Gadget Freaks – The Panasonic Lumix DMC-LS70 lacks the innovative features that would make this budget-priced point-and-shoot camera appealing to the gadget freak market.

Manual Control Freaks – While the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LS70 has manual controls over settings like exposure compensation, ISO, and white balance, it unfortunately lacks access to focus, metering, aperture, and shutter speed, making it a less attractive option for the manual control freak.

Pros/Serious Hobbyists – There is no reason for the pro or serious hobbyist to consider the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LS70.