Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ1

Conclusion : Now a big zoom needn't mean a big camera

Résumé : There's no shortage of 3.5in external hard drive enclosures to choose from, but there are relatively very few 2.5in models....

Résumé : The metal case is tough and easy to hold.

Points forts : Great for the size

Points faibles : Lacks the performance of larger competitors

Conclusion : For instance, 5-megapixel shots at ISO 400 and 800 are noticeably grainy and have degraded detail, but shift to ISO 1600 and things get positively hallucinogenic. There's less outright noise but only because the TZ1 has smeared pixels together in a ...

Résumé : With a 10x zoom lens and optical image stabilization, Panasonic's DMC-TZ1 looks enticing, but image-quality issues keep it from making the grade

Points forts : 10x optical zoom ; optical image stabilization ; cool flip-book movie mode

Points faibles : No manual exposure controls ; lots of noise in pictures taken at middle and high ISO levels ; auto white balance produces warm shots under tungsten lighting

Points forts : Powerful image stabilization. Very good picture quality. Small for a superzoom.

Points faibles : Shutter lag. LCD solarizes.

Conclusion : This compact superzoom takes great shots, but a few underperforming features keep it from greatness.