Panasonic Lumix TZ3 Digital
Camera Review

By Karen M. Cheung
Reviewed.com Editorial Staff
Published on September 05, 2007

Panasonic launched the TZ3 in January 2007 as the follow-up camera to the tiny ultra-zoom TZ1. The Lumix TZ3 has since become Panasonic’s top-selling camera, according to company representatives. Equipped with a 10x optically stabilized lens, this digital camera combines the advanced zoom of higher-end cameras with the petite body of a point-and-shoot. The 7.2-megapixel Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ3 was initially priced at $349.95, but can be found online for $50 less.

The Panasonic TZ3 is an excellent performer with its impressive optics, accurate color reproduction, easy handling, and reasonable price.

The Panasonic TZ3 is unique among its point-and-shoot rivals because it has more than the typical 3x zoom. The TZ3’s extending 10x optical zoom lens utilizes an optical image stabilization system to compensate for blur caused by shaky subjects and moving hands. Longer lenses magnify the view and are more susceptible to blurring, so the inclusion of optical image stabilization is imperative. Many competitors have less effective systems. The Fujifilm FinePix S700 increases the ISO and quickens the shutter speed, but adds speckled noise into the image. The Kodak EasyShare V610 has digital image stabilization that uses an algorithm and isn’t as effective at banning all bumps. The TZ3’s optical image stabilization is built into the lens, making it more practical than cameras that rely solely on digital stabilization.

The Lumix TZ3 has near-perfect color accuracy. The camera produces detailed photos with a full range of tones that outdo the older Panasonic TZ1. Most point-and-shoots struggle to produce quality images in low light settings, such as a candlelit dinner or a concert, but the Panasonic TZ3 performed surprisingly well in dim situations.

The Panasonic DMC-TZ3 generally handles better than its compact contemporaries that can leave consumers with cramped hands. The TZ3’s protruding handgrip on its right side enables users to comfortably shoot for long periods of time; the handgrip doesn’t protrude enough to make it inconvenient to carry around, though. While it’s easy to hold, the camera’s buttons are on the small size, which may frustrate users with large fingers. The TZ3’s all-metal body also weighs about a half-pound. It isn’t the thinnest 10x camera around – that award goes to the Kodak EasyShare V610 - but the TZ3 packs a lot of power into its moderate frame.

All these glowing remarks about the Panasonic TZ3 come with a few counterpoints. The Lumix TZ3 has a slow 2.7-second start-up time that may make for a few missed shots. It also has a harsh flash that can overexpose subjects. The flash can be turned off, but that literally leaves some subjects in the dark.

Advanced point-and-shooters will appreciate the manual controls to change white balance, ISO, metering, and auto focus. The TZ3, however, lacks shutter speed or aperture controls; consumers might want to consider the bulkier Fujifilm FinePix S700 or the Kodak EasyShare Z712 IS if they are looking for more control.

The Panasonic TZ3 is much improved from the 5-megapixel TZ1 model. The 7.2-megapixel TZ3 has a larger 3-inch LCD screen with a higher 230,000-pixel screen resolution and adds a more expansive sensitivity range, extending up to ISO 3200 for improved low-light performance. The camera has a healthy 21 Scene modes and three shooting aspect ratios for wide panoramas or standard proportions.

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ3 is a Napoleon of a camera - tiny but powerful. Its optically stabilized 10x zoom lens coupled with its portability and strong performance make it a worthy purchase. At its price of just under $350, the Panasonic TZ3 is one of the best values on the market.

For a more in-depth review, visit the Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ3 Review at our partner DigitalCameraInfo.com

Privacy - Ethics - How We Test - About - Report an Error - Suggest a Review
Copyright 2008, Reviewed.com

Panasonic Lumix TZ3 DigitalCamera Review

Panasonic Lumix TZ3 Digital
Camera Review