Panasonic Refreshes Lumix Line of Digital Cameras

by Thomas Houston on January 27, 2009 at 09:00 AM

Panasonic refreshed its Lumix line of digital cameras today with six brand new models and a range of colors. For the most part, you'll see 5x optical zooms and 12.1 megapixel sensors, but specs vary by model. We were hoping for some announcements along the lines of a sexy new micro four thirds camera like the DMC-G1, but it's nice to see a move away from 3x optical zooms, which have been standard on most point-and-shoot cameras for years. Except for the DMC-FS25, all of Panasonic's new digital cameras shoot high-definition video. Panasonic is using AVCHD Lite, a new format that promises to double recording time over current formats -- we'll be getting some hands-on with the cameras later today to see how the HD video really fares. Click on the link below to get a feature breakdown of each model.

DMC-FX580 The FX580 is the only touch-screen camera on the 2009 Lumix line, and this cam records 720p video at 30fps. You'll find a 25mm ultra-wide angle lens on the FXS80, and a 5x optical zoom. Expect to see it in stores in April for $399.95.

Panasonic FX580

DMC-FX48 The slim FX48, featuring a 2.5-inch LCD, also shoots 720p video at 30 fps. Much like the FXS80, this model comes with a 5x optical zoom and 25mm ultra-wide angle lens -- unlike the FXS80, you get regular buttons in place of a touchscreen. Retail will be $349.95.

Panasonic FX48

DMC-TS1 Panasonic appears to be going for the outdoorsy crowd with the DMC-TS1. The 12.1 megapixel, rubber-bodied camera comes equipped with a 28mm wide-angle lens and a 4.6x optical zoom. The DMC-TS1 is waterproof to 10 feet and shockproof from 5 feet. You'll see silver, orange, and green models in April for $399.95.

ZS Series - Z53 and Z51 Panasonic's ZS3 rounds out the list with an impressive 12x optical zoom, 25mm ultra-wide angle lens, and a 12.1 megapixel sensor. The ZS1 is similar, though it comes with only 10.1 megapixels. The ZS3 will retail for $399.95 and the ZS1 will go for $299.95.