Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ5

Most ultra-zoom digital cameras are big and bulky, but the 10x Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ5 has a unique optical system that makes this 8.4-ounce camera one of the only pocket-sized (assuming your pockets are roomy) ultra-zoom digital cameras available. The DMC-TZ5 packs a lot in a small package, with 9.1 megapixels, an upgraded sensor and a 28 mm wide-angle lens. Picture quality rates as very good, with "amazingly little lens distortion," according to Andrew Alexander of Imaging-Resource.com. However, Lori Grunin of CNET says the "aggressive smoothing" (noise-reduction software) "reduces detail in indoor shots." Performance, on the other hand, is zippy. Power-up time is about a second, with full focus shutter lag about 0.4 seconds and prefocus lag only .011 seconds. Important features include optical image stabilization (which helps prevent blurry images caused by camera shake), HD movie mode with zoom and a 3-inch, 460,000-pixel LCD screen. The camera, however, does not have a viewfinder and battery life is only good for about 300 shots.  

Reviews say the Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ5 is easy to use, with an updated yet simplified menu interface. However, this is strictly a point-and-shoot camera, so those who like lots of control might want to look elsewhere; the TZ5 does not have any manual controls. The highly rated Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ28 (*Est. $275) isn't as compact, but it has an 18x zoom lens and RAW (uncompressed) image support. For a more powerful compact point-and-shoot, look no further than the DMC-TZ5's successor -- the Panasonic Lumix ZS3. The DMC-ZS3 (*Est. $385) tips the scales at only 7.2 ounces and includes 10.1-megapixel resolution, a 12x lens and HD movies with stereo sound recording. However, you'll pay at least $100 more for the upgrades.

Photography and technology sites such as Imaging-Resource.com, DCResource.com, PopPhoto.com, DigitalCameraReview.com and CNET offer detailed reviews of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ5. Rounding out our sources are more than 400 user reviews at Amazon.com, which help to reveal how this camera performs with extensive, long-term use.