25 January 2021
How to buy the best Panasonic Lumix
Our expert guide to Panasonic Lumix cameras will help you to choose the best model if you're considering buying one from this popular series
In this article
Panasonic Lumix is a popular digital camera series sold in the UK and throughout the world. It has a rich photographic history as the first products in the series were released in 2001. If you've been considering a Lumix camera, we talk you through the main things to think about before you buy, and how to save money on a Lumix model.
This guide includes the following sections. Skip straight to the one you're interested in:
To go straight to the cameras we recommend, head to our Panasonic Lumix compact camera reviews, Panasonic Lumix bridge camera reviews or Panasonic Lumix mirrorless camera reviews.
The Lumix range explained
While you may be familiar with the Panasonic brand for digital cameras, there are some differences between model lines.
In terms of aesthetics, some models are available in a choice of colours, indicated by a suffix letter (K is black, S silver, A blue, R red and W white).
Different model lines range from travel zoom models, all the way to high-end mirrorless cameras with interchangeable lenses. Beginners, hobbyists and experts all have options to choose from Panasonic's line-up.
- The LX series is made up of premium compact cameras
- Superzoom compact cameras for long-distance point-and-shoot snaps make up the TZ series
- Tough compact cameras that can endure rough conditions are in the FT series
- Bridge cameras, a step between compact and mirrorless cameras, are in the FZ series
- The Lumix S series represent Panasonic's premium mirrorless models with full-frame sensors
- Other mirrorless cameras offering DSLR alternatives are in the Lumix G series, which have the micro four-thirds sensor
Of all the Lumix models we tested, these are the most popular cameras among our visitors:
Most popular Lumix models
Panasonic Lumix DC-G9L
£1349.00
Reviewed
A variant of the Panasonic G9 model, the Panasonic Lumix DC-G9L is Panasonic's latest attempt to woo enthusiast and professional photographers. Paired up with a Leica lens, the G9L makes bold claims about shutter speed and never missing a shot. We tested these claims and more in our test lab, so read on for our expert review.
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Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX15
£459.00
Reviewed
Panasonic has a long history of making compact cameras for enthusiasts and has added another solid camera to its line-up, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX15. It combines a fast shutter speed and snappy autofocus, with high-quality stills and video. But how well does it handle and is it simple to use on a daily basis? We tested this latest model to find out.
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Panasonic LUMIX DMC-FZ1000II
£784.99
Reviewed
Like the original model it replaces, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ1000II is a bridge camera with an impressive spec sheet, including 20Mp resolution photos and 4K video recording. So, does the DMC-FZ1000II offer any significant improvements over its forerunner and how good is the picture quality? We tested it in our labs to find out, so read on for our full review.
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Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ100
£359.00
Reviewed
Another camera to emerge from the fantastic TZ series, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ100 is one of the few compact cameras to include a viewfinder. It's designed to include a large zoom lens and fit into your pocket, but does the TZ100 deliver as the ideal travel-zoom camera? Our test lab results reveal whether it's a Best Buy.
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Panasonic Lumix DC-TZ200
£529.99
Reviewed
The highly anticipated upgrade to the TZ100, the Panasonic Lumix DC-TZ200 is the latest addition to the TZ-series from Panasonic. Billed as the camera for all your travel needs, this model is pocket-sized and packs a serious performance punch. Does it live up to our high expectations? Read our full Panasonic Lumix DC-TZ200 review to find out.
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Panasonic LUMIX DC-GX880
£399.99
Reviewed
The Panasonic Lumix DC-GX880K mirrorless camera promises style and performance in a neat, compact package. With 4K recording, wireless connectivity, plenty of ways to release the shutter and a flippable screen, it seems perfect for street photography and ideal for the fashion or travel vlogger. It definitely looks nice, and, if it performs well in our tests, it's a steal at around £400. Find out how good picture quality actually is and whether this camera is actually easy and ergonomic to use in our full review.
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Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ80
£239.00
Reviewed
A replacement to last year's model, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ80 is a powerful camera in a compact size. It's designed to be used as an all-rounder camera, thanks to its superzoom lens and 4K video recording, but what is the image quality like? We ran this camera through our testing gauntlet — find out if it survived the Which? test lab.
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Panasonic LUMIX DC-TZ95
£394.77
Reviewed
With a super-lengthy 30x optical zoom magnification, yet relatively tiny size, the Panasonic Lumix DC-TZ95 has the potential to be an invaluable addition to any traveller's hand luggage. But does this compact camera take great shots, or would you be better off just using your smartphone? Find out in our full review.
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Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ82
£293.89
Reviewed
One of the cheapest cameras available with 4K video recording, the Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ82 is a superzoom camera with a higher-resolution sensor and viewfinder than the FZ72, plus a bevy of other new features. As expected, it does well for video quality, but how does it fare for still images? We tested it in our lab to find out - read on for our in-depth review.
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Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ70
£205.19
Reviewed
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ70 is a travel zoom camera, packing a 12Mp sensor and a versatile 30x Leica-branded lens into a well-built compact body. But does this 2015 model manage an award-winning performance? Read our expert review to find out.
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How much do Panasonic Lumix cameras cost?
Depending on the camera type, Panasonic Lumix models can be quite pricey. For example, some premium compact models will cost you around £700. However, there are older, top-rated models available for less than £400.
The price range for Lumix bridge cameras is similar – £240 to £750 – but you’ll need to spend towards the top end for a good model. Our Best Buy Lumix bridge cameras cost between £499 and £690.
At the other end of the spectrum, an entry-level Lumix mirrorless camera can cost as little as £350, while high-end, professional models with 4K video recording and weather sealing will set you back more than £4,000.
But one key advantage of mirrorless cameras over compact and bridge cameras is the ability to change the lens. Depending on your level of experience, you can save some money and buy a lower-cost entry-level lens, typically called a kit lens, and expand your lens library as your photography confidence grows.
Are Panasonic Lumix cameras reliable?
In addition to our independent lab testing, we also survey thousands of members each year to find out how long their cameras lasted, and, if they stopped working, what went wrong. This means we can tell you which brands are the most reliable, and which are the ones to avoid.
According to our most recent brand-reliability data gathered from camera owners in 2019, Panasonic cameras are generally pretty reliable. For two types of camera they came out on top as the most reliable brand. However, for the other camera type they’re still not as reliable as some rival brands.
To see how they measure up, head to our 2020 guides:
- The most reliable compact camera brands
- The most reliable bridge camera brands
- The most reliable DSLR/mirrorless brands
If you do encounter any issues with your camera, in the UK all Panasonic Lumix cameras come with a one-year parts-and-labour warranty. To obtain service under this warranty, you’ll need to produce a full purchase receipt and the relevant warranty documentation.
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