Digital Trends

Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ7 May 30th, 2006 | by David Elrich

Conclusion

Vacationers should put the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ7 on their packing lists. How high on the list depends on your shooting style. If you're one for pushing ISOs, the FZ7 is not for you. However, if you're going to stick to ISO 200 and below, by all means give this camera a try. With its amazing lens, compact package, optical image stabilization and manual options, this is a very solid mega-zoom—especially with a street price of less than $350.  

Pros

• Amazing 12x optical zoom
• Optical image stabilization
• Respectable LCD screen
• Extensive manual controls
• Good battery life

Cons

• Noise above 200 ISO
• Manually operated pop-up flash
• LCD screen could be better
• Slow saving files to card
• Must budget for large high-speed SD card