Panasonic created a winner in the point and shoot "zoom" category with the Lumix DMC-TZ5. Just about one year later, they have given us the Lumix DMC-ZS1 and the DMC-ZS3. (In the European market they are known as the TZ6 and TZ7 respectively. Am I alone in thinking that continuing the "TZ" brand would make more logical sense? And why is there no ZS2?)
This article will compare the Lumix ZS1 and ZS3.
Beginning with the basic specifications that are identical in both cameras:
10.1 Megapixels
12x Zoom Range (25-300mm)
Optical Image Stabilization
80-6400 ISO Range
27 Scene Modes with Intelligent Auto
Image Quality rated highest among Digital Compacts with similar features (DPReview.com)The features that are different (ZS1 vs ZS3):
LCD - 2.7" (230k resolution) vs 3.0" (460k)
Image Sensor - 1/2.5" vs 1/2.33"
Video - 848x480 30fps video w/mono sound vs 720p 60fps video w/stereo soundThese 3 features add just over 0 to the price tag for the ZS3. Yet, in spite of the extra $$$, the Lumix ZS3 is outselling its ZS1 cousin by a large margin. Why??
The reason is that most digital compact camera users are now quite comfortable with using their "point and shoot" camera for their basic video needs. And the difference in this feature is significant when you consider many folks are now viewing on big screen HD televisions.
The other big difference is the LCD screen. While 0.3" does not seem that big of a deal, when added to double the pixel resolution (230,000 vs 460,000), the view quality of the live view and playback is significant.
With respect to image quality and printing images, in a comparison test against other super zoom cameras, the ZS1 and ZS3 were dual winners at DPReview.com.
The final word comes from those who have actually purchased the camera for personal use. After all, the consumer has the last word in satisfaction.
Checking the user reviews at DPReview.com and Amazon.com, both cameras rated highly - at least 4.16 out of 5. In fact, at Amazon, the Lumix ZS1 rated at an impressive 4.67 (out of 5).
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