4K is here to stay and the cameras just keep getting more compact and affordable. Panasonic dropped a couple new pocket cams (the ZS100 and ZS60) at CES 2016 that are cheaper alternatives to Sony’s vaunted RX100 IV.
The Panasonic Lumix ZS100 features a 1-inch sensor (like the Sony RX100 IV) and offers still image capture at 20.1MP in addition to 4K video. The ZS100 comes with an impressive 10x zoom lens with a 25-250mm equivalent reach.
The ZS100 has both an electronic viewfinder and a 3-inch touchscreen LCD. It also offers 5-axis hybrid OIS stabilization and Panasonic’s post-focus in 4K photo mode for selecting a focus point after the image has been captured.
The Panasonic ZS100 retails for $697 and is available for pre-order here at B&H Photo.
Even cheaper is the Panasonic Lumix ZS60, which rings in at just $447 and still offers 4K video capture, as well as other compelling features.
Panasonic ZS60 Key Features
- 18.1MP 1/2.3″ MOS Sensor
- Venus Engine Image Processor
- Leica DC Vario-Elmarit 30x Zoom Lens
- 24-720mm (35mm Equivalent)
- 1,166k-Dot Live View Finder
- 3.0″ 1.04m-Dot Touchscreen LCD Monitor
- 4K 3840 x 2160 Video at 30p
- 5-Axis Hybrid O.I.S.
- ISO 6400 and Up to 40 fps Shooting
- 4K Photo Modes and Post Focus
While the ZS100 has that larger 1-inch sensor we see in the likes of the Sony RX100 line, the ZS60 downgrades to a 1/2.3″ sensor that offers 18.1MP of resolution. However, you get the benefit of a longer 30x zoom range with a 24-720mm equivalent reach.
Cropped 4K recording view on the ZS60.
The ZS60’s 4K video mode crops into the frame a bit, while the ZS100 does not. Like the ZS100, the ZS60 also offers the 4K photo and and post focus modes for selecting the focus point after the fact.
Note the white outline within the display that shows the 4K framing.
You can find the Panasonic ZS60 here at B&H Photo.
“4K is here to stay and the cameras just keep getting more compact and affordable.”
…says nearly every single other manufacturer except Canon.
Sad, but true so far. Canon’s old school approach may be its eventual demise. It’s not like Canon has to offer 4K raw out of a pocket cam or DSLR. However, when virtually every competitor is offering a consumer product in the sub-$1k range that shoots compressed 4K (and consumers are eating it up), maybe you should look into that space too.
Where is the 4K with a f1.4/1’8 lens?