I received the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ8 today. As you may have read, it’s the prize I’ve won from Digi sometime ago. The link about that post is here. A new camera for me, but its still way far from a new DSLR I really want. Well, regardless… I’m always happy to get something good and free from anyone 🙂
So here’s a simple review about the camera. I tried a few shots, so… I’d basically compare it with my trustworthy Canon IXY 25 IS which I have been using for 3 years now.
So here’s what I liked about the camera:
The hand-grip : It’s something good to have. It feels very comfortable and this makes shaky hands a thing of the past.
The battery : The camera uses a twin AA battery to power it. This is good because its cheap to replace and find.
The memory slot : This is one thing I really love about the LZ8. With the memory slot placed at the side of the camera, it’s easy to remove hence not requiring me to frequently open the battery compartment like I have to in my Canon Ixy 25IS.
The mode dial : The mode dial is a welcomed feature as it enables me to change features in an instance.
Memory card selection : The LZ8 uses the SD card, which is a widely used memory card for digital camera’s these days hence making it easy to buy new memory space shall the need arises.
Easy buttons layout : With the delete, display and exposure button all individual, it makes it easy to navigate.
Optical zoom : 5x optical zoom.. what more can you ask for?
And this is what I disliked or felt could be improved:
The body – Looks like cheap plastic. Not something which says ‘class’. The body is also a little bulky which makes it somewhat hard to carry around.
The mode dial – It maybe useful, but it seems to be fitted badly as in loosely. In other words, it does seem fragile.
Cursor Buttons – I have big fingers, and therefore using these tiny buttons do carry my own problems.
Battery type – Double A batteries are easy to change, but they are also bigger, bulkier and less lasting.
To sum up, the LZ8 isn’t a bad camera. Robin is using one, and he gets the best out of it.
Or maybe I should consider getting a new Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZR1 12.1MP Digital Camera Silver