Short review for the ZS70 here, my full review shortly will be published on my blog (google camera name and photographic-central). Quick rant/explanation: I'm giving it 5 stars for two reasons- One, I can't choose 4.5, and two, there were a couple one star reviews here when either the camera wasn't released yet or there was obvious user error. To me, those aren't valid reviews so the extra half point helps to mitigate them (since Amazon hasn't removed the reviews, and probably won't I'm doing my part to keep things fair). Moving on...
Review: There simply aren't any decent pocket-able super zoom cameras on the market that shoot raw. As a professional and enthusiast, I demand raw. I suggest readers who don't use raw learn how to so that they can get the most out of the TZ70. This camera has a very small sensor, but, it is a modern BSI CMOS, which means it's very efficient for the size of its pixels. As long as you have reasonable expectations from a sensor this size, it will probably exceed those expectations. Image quality from raw is much better than I anticipated. The lens is very sharp through the range (just don't go over f5.6 if you can avoid it, natural diffraction kicks in). Therefore the sensor and lens combo out perform a camera of this class. Even dynamic range is better than I could have possibly thought. Credit to technology moving on.
When you factor in all its features (a vast array from 4k video to wireless to time lapse video), it's top notch design aesthetics (minimalist, classy, utilitarian), excellent build and ergonomics, this camera is a powerhouse of a pocketable "all in one" compact. My only wish is that the lens were slightly brighter (max aperture through the range), but otherwise it's a camera in its class of sensor size that shadows all others. At first I dismissed the ZS70 because of its packed tiny sensor, but I was shocked and pleasantly surprised looking at the image quality in raw. 1" sized sensors are still going to outperform it mind you, but this sensor is much better than you might think. Once you get it set up, it's a joy to shoot with. That lens is so versatile for all kinds of snapshot photography- from landscapes to macros, action shots to long range stills or portraits. Its fast focusing so even actions shots are within reach.
Overall the ZS70 is everything you need in a little point n shoot, and nothing you don't. The controls on the exterior are plenty and holding it is quite lovely for one handed shooting- it's slightly larger, thicker, and heavier than the ZS50/60 but that is a good thing for a camera with such a long zoom. It makes a more stable platform when you are shooting at full telephoto. It has just the right heft to it for a camera of its size and type, welcome if you ask me. The five axis stabilization helps tremendously to keep blur at bay. Most of the controls are customizeable. The LCD is helpful for waist level shots and acts as a sort of angle bi-pod when you place the camera down for more stable shots (if you don't have a tripod for example). The EVF is welcome and usable, and helps in bright light and for extra stability when you are looking through it with the camera pressed to your eye/face.
I cannot get over how lovely its designed- all sides are nice n flat, nothing protrudes to snag, there's no obnoxious advertising of features on the camera itself, and everything appears proportionate and cleanly organized. The front and rear grips are improved and excellent. The design looks very Leica-esque - minimalist and beautiful. Great choice in exterior materials, the blend of flat fleck paint and satin metal. The black and silver versions are both excellent and classy.
If you print, you can easily make lovely prints to 13x19", and if you have some talent or stack your raw images, you can raise that number substantially (30x40" perhaps!). To me this camera is the sleeper compact out there right now. And it's likely to get more reviews and fans as a result.
Overall the ZS70 is the best of the newer ZS series (or TZ series if outside the USA) cameras. It's classy, versatile, discreet, minimalist, and utilitarian. I wish more cameras were designed like this. Keep it up Panasonic!
Edit: My full review is now up on photographic-central blogspot dot com :)
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This Item  Panasonic LUMIX ZS80 20.3MP Digital Camera, 30x 24-720mm Travel Zoom Lens, 4K Video, Optical Image Stabilizer and 3.0-inch Display – Point & Shoot Camera with Lecia Lens- DC-ZS80S (Silver), Black |  |  |  |  |  | |
| Price | Currently unavailable. | $549.00 | -20% $398.00 List: $499.99 | $505.00 | $497.99 | -29% $497.99 List: $699.99 |
| Delivery | — | — | Get it as soon as Thursday, May 16 | — | Get it as soon as Thursday, May 16 | Get it as soon as Thursday, May 16 |
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| Sold By | — | Woodland Hills Camera & telescopes | PROCAM | Amazon.com | Amazon.com | Amazon.com |
| display type | LCD | LCD | LCD | LCD | LCD | LCD |
| display size | — | 3 inches | 3 inches | 3 inches | 3 inches | 3 inches |
| lens type | Telephoto | Wide Angle | Wide Angle | zoom | all-in-one-zoom | mirror-lens |
| zoom type | 30x optical zoom | Optical Zoom | — | Optical Zoom | Depth From Defocus | Digital zoom |
| shooting modes | Aperture Priority, Manual, Program, Shutter Priority | Automatic, Movie, Panorama | Aperture Priority, Manual, Program, Shutter Priority | P, M, Tv, Hybrid Auto, Auto, Standard, Vivid, Neutral, B/W, Sepia, Video Snapshot, Food | N&A | Silent Shooting |
| connectivity tech | HDMI, Bluetooth, USB | Wireless | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB, Micro HDMI | Wireless | HDMI, USB | HDMI, USB |
From the manufacturer
TRAVEL ZOOM CAMERA
The LUMIX ZS80S features a 24mm ultra-wide angle 30x telephoto LEICA DC VARIO-ELMAR lens (35mm camera equivalent: 24-720mm). From dynamic landscapes to distant subjects, this versatile zoom range makes it easy to capture virtually any subject, in any situation — especially helpful when traveling.
Features
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OPTICAL IMAGE STABILIZERThe POWER O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer) effectively compensates for hand shake to minimize blur, even in telephoto. The LUMIX ZS80S provides a Zoom Compose Assist function to help regain the subject quickly when sight is lost in telephoto simply by zooming out when shooting. |
20.3MP SENSORThe LUMIX ZS80S incorporates 1/2.3-inch MOS Sensor with 20.3MP. |
DFD AND FOCUSINGThe LUMIX ZS80S integrates DFD (Depth From Defocus) technology to shorten set focus time, resulting in the ultra-high speed AF. The LUMIX ZS80S boasts high-speed burst shooting at 10 fps (AFS) / 5 fps (AFC) to capture fast-moving subjects just in-focus, and even allows consecutive shots in RAW. |
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4K VIDEOThe LUMIX ZS80S records high-resolution QFHD 4K video in 3840x2160 at 30p or 24p in MP4* in addition to Full-HD 1,920 x 1,080 60p video in AVCHD Progressive or MP4 (MPEG-4 / H.264) format with practical full-time AF. * Max. 15 min. |
HIGH SPEED VIDEO RECORDINGHigh Speed Video mode enables recording subject with fast motion in FHD at 120 fps (60Hz Area), while Time Lapse /Stop Motion Animation are also available. |
4K PHOTO MODEWith 4K PHOTO, the LUMIX ZS80S lets you capture fleeting photo opportunities at 30 fps in 8MP equivalent resolution by extracting the most photogenic frame from the 4K burst file to save as a high-res photo. And with the added Auto Marking function, choosing the best shot out of hundreds of frames is easier. |
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SEQUENCE COMPOSITION MODESequence Composition makes it possible to create a stromotion image by synthesizing multiple images shot at a fixed frame with 4K PHOTO. A unique image reflecting the subject’s motion can be easily produced in the camera without needing a special retouching process. Post Focus and Focus Stacking functions are available as well. |
LIVE VIEW FINDERThe LUMIX ZS80S integrates a new 0.21-inch 2,330K-dot equivalent LVF (Live View Finder) into a high magnification ratio of approximately 0.53x (35mm camera equivalent). The image output between the LVF and the rear monitor is switched automatically with the eye sensor on the LVF. |
CREATIVE MODESSelfies can also be shot in panorama, ideal for selfies and group selfies in front of dynamic scenic backgrounds. With Creative Panorama function, you can shoot a horizontal / vertical panoramic image with consequent shots taken by overlaying the previous picture and reflect 18 filter effects. |
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3.0-INCH TOUCH AND TILT DISPLAYThe 3.0-inch 1040K-dot static type touch control monitor has a 180-degree tiltable structure. When the monitor is flipped up, the camera automatically activates the Self Shot mode to shoot attractive selfie portraits using Soft Skin or Slimming effects on the face. After shooting, you can apply virtual makeup to the face in playback mode with the Beauty Retouch function. |
BLUETOOTH AND WIFIThe LUMIX ZS80S integrates Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity for a more flexible shooting experience with instant image sharing. Once connected to a smartphone or tablet installed with the Panasonic Image App for iOS / Android, you can shoot, browse and share images remotely, plus choose the picture quality of the photos you send. |
USB BATTERY CHARGINGThe LUMIX ZS80S keeps you shooting with a long battery life for approximately 380 pictures per charge. Thanks to the eco 30 fps mode, you can shoot up to approximately 340 pictures even while using a LVF. The battery can be recharged via AC or USB. |
Reviews with images
Ready. Set. Wow!
I'm going to give a review based on what I expected the camera to do, and there are a couple of reasons why I think it's a hands-down camera and who should use this kind of compact camera. It may not be for everybody, but I think I like it more than any other compact camera. I'm not going to complain that there are a limited number of features and they are not on par with features that you'd normally get on any high-end DSLR or mirrorless camera. I think it's just enough for me and those who have recently ventured into the photography world. I've been using this point-and-shoot camera for about a month and a half and these are my thoughts on it.An intuitive UI and a foolproof systemWhen I first bought it, I had a lot of things going on in my mind. How the heck should I utilize this fancy kind of camera? Until it landed on my doorstep, I did a little unboxing and tested it out right off the bat without looking at the manuals. Toggling all the settings and features is a lot easier than I thought it would be. It all goes down to how patient you are with all the settings set to your liking. A very responsive flip-out screen makes everything seamless in focusing on subjects and tweaking exposure and ISO. You don't have to worry about the settings you use even after turning it off because it'll go back to the previous features and settings you set to. PortabilityThe purported weight of 11.36 oz or 322 g seems like a little burden to carry around in your pocket or fanny pack because it's very lightweight without a case on. I don't have to carry a huge backpack on my shoulder and whenever I have something to capture, I just take it out and shoot right away. Easy peasy! Who is qualified to use this camera?I'd say most of the beginners who are on a budget are looking for the perfect camera to start off with and not for claustrophobes. Focus accuracy and image qualityThe focus in the AF mode is quite spot on when there is sufficient light on the subject that you're going to capture. If not, it may be out of focus for a moment, and it'll refocus again. The AF Macro and the Macro Zoom are incredibly impressive when taking pictures of bugs and flowers with sharp details around them, and the focal point where the light enters through the lens is not too terrible when shooting in a low-light condition with minimal blemishes and grainy elements. Equipped with a 20.3MP, the output from this camera is insanely good under some circumstances where there's enough lighting. If you're into those kinds of portrait shots, this camera may not be good for you as the maximum F-Stop is only set at 3.3, but you can put a fake depth of field in the background using an advanced software called Luminar AI. All in all, it's an impeccable camera for avid photographers with a reasonable price tag compared to other point-and-shoot camera brands and this one is affordable. Ease of use, portability, and great features are what I'm looking for when buying a low-budget one, and this camera does cut it and I highly recommend it!
Top reviews from the United States
There was a problem filtering reviews right now. Please try again later.
Reviewed in the United States on July 19, 2022
Style: ZS70SSet: CameraVerified Purchase
I'm going to give a review based on what I expected the camera to do, and there are a couple of reasons why I think it's a hands-down camera and who should use this kind of compact camera. It may not be for everybody, but I think I like it more than any other compact camera. I'm not going to complain that there are a limited number of features and they are not on par with features that you'd normally get on any high-end DSLR or mirrorless camera. I think it's just enough for me and those who have recently ventured into the photography world. I've been using this point-and-shoot camera for about a month and a half and these are my thoughts on it.
An intuitive UI and a foolproof system
When I first bought it, I had a lot of things going on in my mind. How the heck should I utilize this fancy kind of camera? Until it landed on my doorstep, I did a little unboxing and tested it out right off the bat without looking at the manuals. Toggling all the settings and features is a lot easier than I thought it would be. It all goes down to how patient you are with all the settings set to your liking. A very responsive flip-out screen makes everything seamless in focusing on subjects and tweaking exposure and ISO. You don't have to worry about the settings you use even after turning it off because it'll go back to the previous features and settings you set to.
Portability
The purported weight of 11.36 oz or 322 g seems like a little burden to carry around in your pocket or fanny pack because it's very lightweight without a case on. I don't have to carry a huge backpack on my shoulder and whenever I have something to capture, I just take it out and shoot right away. Easy peasy!
Who is qualified to use this camera?
I'd say most of the beginners who are on a budget are looking for the perfect camera to start off with and not for claustrophobes.
Focus accuracy and image quality
The focus in the AF mode is quite spot on when there is sufficient light on the subject that you're going to capture. If not, it may be out of focus for a moment, and it'll refocus again. The AF Macro and the Macro Zoom are incredibly impressive when taking pictures of bugs and flowers with sharp details around them, and the focal point where the light enters through the lens is not too terrible when shooting in a low-light condition with minimal blemishes and grainy elements. Equipped with a 20.3MP, the output from this camera is insanely good under some circumstances where there's enough lighting. If you're into those kinds of portrait shots, this camera may not be good for you as the maximum F-Stop is only set at 3.3, but you can put a fake depth of field in the background using an advanced software called Luminar AI.
All in all, it's an impeccable camera for avid photographers with a reasonable price tag compared to other point-and-shoot camera brands and this one is affordable. Ease of use, portability, and great features are what I'm looking for when buying a low-budget one, and this camera does cut it and I highly recommend it!
An intuitive UI and a foolproof system
When I first bought it, I had a lot of things going on in my mind. How the heck should I utilize this fancy kind of camera? Until it landed on my doorstep, I did a little unboxing and tested it out right off the bat without looking at the manuals. Toggling all the settings and features is a lot easier than I thought it would be. It all goes down to how patient you are with all the settings set to your liking. A very responsive flip-out screen makes everything seamless in focusing on subjects and tweaking exposure and ISO. You don't have to worry about the settings you use even after turning it off because it'll go back to the previous features and settings you set to.
Portability
The purported weight of 11.36 oz or 322 g seems like a little burden to carry around in your pocket or fanny pack because it's very lightweight without a case on. I don't have to carry a huge backpack on my shoulder and whenever I have something to capture, I just take it out and shoot right away. Easy peasy!
Who is qualified to use this camera?
I'd say most of the beginners who are on a budget are looking for the perfect camera to start off with and not for claustrophobes.
Focus accuracy and image quality
The focus in the AF mode is quite spot on when there is sufficient light on the subject that you're going to capture. If not, it may be out of focus for a moment, and it'll refocus again. The AF Macro and the Macro Zoom are incredibly impressive when taking pictures of bugs and flowers with sharp details around them, and the focal point where the light enters through the lens is not too terrible when shooting in a low-light condition with minimal blemishes and grainy elements. Equipped with a 20.3MP, the output from this camera is insanely good under some circumstances where there's enough lighting. If you're into those kinds of portrait shots, this camera may not be good for you as the maximum F-Stop is only set at 3.3, but you can put a fake depth of field in the background using an advanced software called Luminar AI.
All in all, it's an impeccable camera for avid photographers with a reasonable price tag compared to other point-and-shoot camera brands and this one is affordable. Ease of use, portability, and great features are what I'm looking for when buying a low-budget one, and this camera does cut it and I highly recommend it!
Images in this review
Top reviews from other countries
Fernanda
El mejor servicio al cliente
Reviewed in Mexico on August 31, 2023Style: ZS80KSet: CameraVerified Purchase
Francisco Tinoco
Cumple las expectativas
Reviewed in Mexico on January 12, 2023Style: ZS70KSet: CameraVerified Purchase
Amazon Customer
Excellent lens W/ lots of pixels
Reviewed in Canada on January 18, 2021Style: ZS80KSet: CameraVerified Purchase
Sanjaykjose
Color tone not good, shaky zooming, shifting zoom, totally not satisfied ×
Reviewed in India on July 7, 2022Style: ZS70KSet: CameraVerified Purchase
