Digital Camera Review

Digital Camera Review

Panasonic's line of image-stabilized compacts with substantial zooms has grown at the low end with the introduction of the Lumix DMC-LZ5 and DMC-LZ3. Both cameras feature the 6.1 to 36.6mm Lumix DC Vario 6x zoom lens, with MEGA O.I.S. Image stabilization, and they are built on the same frame – size, controls, and body materials are identical. For example, they both offer 14MB internal memory, direct printing, and a movie mode that can record 640 x 480 and 320 x 240 at 30 and 10 fps. The major functional difference between the two is resolution: the LZ5 has a 6 megapixel chip, and the LZ3 has a 5 megapixel one. The LZ5 also has a 2.5” LCD that’s a clear upgrade to the 2” display on the LZ3. Panasonic wants an extra $50 for the higher resolution camera. The LZ5 lists for $279.95, while the LZ3 is $229.95.
Advertisement


Connectivity / Extras
Software
The LZ5 and LZ3 ship with Arcsoft PhotoBase and PhotoImpression, software which allow the user to download images to a computer, sort, and print them. We did not have the opportunity to test out the software but will offer a more complete look when we conduct our full review.

Jacks, Ports, Plugs
The LZ5 and LZ3 feature USB 2.0 connectivity for connecting to either computers or compatible printers. The same jack also functions as an analog A/V port, for showing images and movies on a television. The cameras also accept an optional external power supply, which would save batteries during printing, downloading, and showing images on TV.

Direct Print Options
The LZ5 and LZ3 offer PictBridge and DPOF direct printing, implementing the basic options of choosing images to print and the number of copies of each to make. Making a print order is easy and straightforward.

Batteries
The LZ5 and LZ3 each take 2 AA batteries. Panasonic predicts a life of 235 shots for the LZ5 and 250 shots for the LZ3, with the company's own Oxyride batteries. There's a set up option to indicate to the camera whether the camera has Panasonic's batteries installed (hmm…makes you wonder..).

Memory
Both the LZ5 and LZ3 accept SD cards, the standard format for compact cameras. SD cards are widely available, cheaper than other formats, and pretty durable. The cameras also have built-in memory. The specs we've seen say they both have 14MB of internal storage.

Other Features
Economy Mode - The LZ5 and LZ3 feature an Economy Mode, apparently to extend battery life. Panasonic was not able to provide information on how this worked, and we’re afraid to speculate on this one.

High Angle - The High Angle view mode for the LCDs on the LZ5 and LZ3 improves the LCD image when viewed from a low angle. It makes it easier to shoot overhead shots.
Image Parameters Page 8 of 10 Overall Impressions Panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ3 and LZ5 First Impressions Review Navigation

  
Advertisement