This
Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZR1 / ZX1 Review is based on a
production model. All sample images are unretouched,
except where specified.
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZR1 [DMC-ZX1 outside of North America] is the little brother of the Lumix ZS3 [TZ7 outside of N.A.], lacks some of the manual features, but packs all the necessary ingredients to capture great pictures. It squeezes an 8x (25-200mm equiv.) ultra wide-angle optical zoom into a compact body that is slim enough to carry in a trousers pocket or small fashion purse. That zoom power is very versatile and captures wide landscapes and large group shots as well as brings far away action close. Construction and build is excellent, as we've come to expect of Panasonic digital cameras.
Image quality is very good at base ISO 80, with very low noise and good image detail. Image quality is good up to ISO 400 but, as is common with all consumer digicams, tends to suffer from noise and loss of detail at higher ISOs.
If you've been thinking that the compact long zoom cameras such as the Lumix ZS3 is still too big and heavy for your needs, then the Lumix ZR1 may just be what you've been waiting for. The ZR1 is 6mm thinner and 68g lighter.
What I like about the Panasonic ZR1:
Ultra wide-angle 25mm is great for wide landscapes and group shots.
Very good image quality at ISO 80, and usable images up to ISO 400.
Improved Image Stabilization.
Intelligent Auto mode really works!
Good performance, no practical shutter lag, fast and precise AF.
Availability of Manual WB and WB Adjust.
CA negligible.
Availability of Live Histogram.
Availability of Guide Lines (2 patterns).
Stylish, compact enough to be pocketable.
Hinged door for easy access to terminals.
Improvements wishlist:
Mode Dial may rotate out of place when taking camera from pocket; needs to be stiffer.
LCD does not gain up in low-light; should gain up to allow low light composition.
PHOTOfunSTUDIO could be more user friendly.
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZR1 is the camera that you may reach for everytime you step out. Performance is fast, the AF is precise, and the camera does not suffer shutter lag. Best of all, the ZR1 gives very good results in Intelligent AUTO mode making it a great take-anywhere camera.
See if you fit the Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZR1 User Profile:
Panasonic ZR1 / ZX1
User Profile
•
Desire a quality 12.1MP
resolution digital camera.
•
Want a long zoom. Want a long
zoom. Want a long zoom. -- With wide-angle and Image Stabilization.
•
Want a well-rounded digital
camera for general family use.
•
Want an easy-to-use "Auto Everything" point-and-shoot.
•
Want a take-anywhere digital camera.
You can buy the Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZR1 / ZX1 from our Trusted Sponsor B&H Photo-Video, the Professional’s Source, satisfying millions of customers for over 35 years:
You can buy the Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZR1 / ZX1 from our Trusted Sponsor B&H Photo-Video, the Professional’s Source, satisfying millions of customers for over 35 years:
