Panasonic adds two 24X, 14-megapixel ultrazooms
updated 10:15 am EDT, Wed July 21, 2010
Panasonic Lumix FZ100 and FZ40 debut
Panasonic's camera launches today were continued by two long-zoom cameras. The Lumix FZ100 and FZ40 both shoot 14.1-megapixel images at 24X (25-600mm) distances. The two are pitched as "hybrids" and record video in AVCHD/H.264 with a dedicated control and a wind noise reduction option.
The FZ40 is treated as the entry level and uses a conventional CCD sensor, captures video no higher than 720p, and has a relatively low-resolution 230,000 three-inch LCD. Choosing the FZ100 instead uses a more light-sensitive and faster MOS sensor as well as 1080p video capturing and a doubling of the LCD's resolution to 460,000 pixels.
Either camera will be available as of late August. Prices begin at $400 for the FZ40 and move to $500 for the FZ100.
