Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ200
Full-size megazoom
It may not have the longest zoom lens, but its large f2.8 aperture throughout its 24x, 25-600mm zoom range makes it one of a kind. It's a great choice if you're looking for a does-it-all compact camera for shooting kids, pets, and sports.
The good: The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ200 has an excellent f2.8 25-600mm zoom lens; fast shooting performance, even when shooting in raw or raw plus JPEG; and excellent picture and video quality for its class. It has a ton of shooting options, including full manual for stills and movies. It also has a hot shoe and an audio input socket.
The bad: The FZ200 is expensive, especially if all you're after is a long zoom lens. It doesn't have built-in GPS or Wi-Fi, or a proximity sensor for switching from the LCD to EVF. The SD card slot and battery compartment can't be accessed when the camera is on a tripod.
The bottom line: If you're searching for a long-zoom camera that falls in between a point-and-shoot and digital SLR experience, look no further than the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ200.
October 31, 2012 3:00 PM PDT
Photo by: Sarah Tew/CNET
