TechRadar Panasonic FZ1000
Superzooms inevitably seem like a bad compromise between compact and DSLR. Their quality and ability has been limited but they have offered a lazy, or cheap way of getting a lot of zoom.
The new Panasonic FZ1000 is grabbing praise from all quarters, although that might be because the bar has previously been set quite low. Today the reviews are out and they’re suggesting things might be changing in the market.
Always good for a detailed review TechRadar‘s final verdict is mostly positive despite some questions about whether users who want a superzoom will be happy with the Panasonic FZ1000’s lower zoom capacity. Still they conclude by saying:
The FZ1000 marks the start of a new line for Panasonic and the early signs are good. It has plenty of features to allow those who want to take control over their images to do so, while providing automatic options for less experienced users. It’s also appears to be very capable, delivering well exposed images with plenty of detail and good, natural colour.
Meanwhile DPReview, who have always been relatively hostile towards superzooms, have conceded that;
When we reviewed the Sony RX10 we said that it was difficult to assess given that it had no direct peers. Well, it certainly does now.We’ll be comparing the FZ1000 and RX10 in more detail in the coming days but for now, it’s very clear that Panasonic’s latest compact is not just another superzoom.
Looks like not only are standards rising in the superzoom market there’s also the first few signs of healthy competition shaking things up.What do you think? Have you ever shot on a superzoom? Do you rate them as a camera?
