Comparing These Two Cameras, Which Is Best ?

Question

The only major difference between the two, that I saw, was mp and zoom. One was 10.1 mp and 12x optical zoom ($549). The other was 8.1 mp and 18x optical zoom ($349). Here's the two in comparison:

http://www2.panasonic.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/vModelComparisonResults?storeId=15001&catalogId=13401&catGroupId=75047&surfCategory=Lumix%20Digital%20Cameras&cacheProgram=11002&cachePartner=7000000000000005702&items=134579|98048|

Answer 1

There are some pretty significant differences. The FZ50 doesn't go as wide (even with its larger sensor), but it also has that advantage - a larger sensor makes for better performance. Also, the FZ50 has real, usable manual focus/zoom rings, which are exponentially more easy to use than clunky zoom and focus buttons that you usually have to press on camera. I do think that the FZ50 has better glass, but I'm not entirely sure (the other lens isn't coated but they both have several asperical elements). The FZ50 has a slightly faster aperture range in the telephoto area, and can go all the way to f/11. I think the FZ50 has a more advanced metering system as well. And lastly, the FZ50 is slightly larger and that might be a problem if you want a semi-compact bridge camera.



The price is also a big difference; for only a slightly higher price the D40 can be got with a 55-200mm lens, and it performs worlds better than any P&S camera.



Also, look closer: The 12 and 18 figures ARE the actual optical zoom, not digital.

Answer 2

Keep in mind that the total zoom is a make up optical and digital zoom.

Optical actually brings the object closer, while digital zoom takes that final picture blows it up and crops it.



Digital Zoom also reduces the quality of the image the further you zoom in. So whereas, you'd start out with a 10MP image, you could end up with a 5 or 6MP picture after you've gone all the way into digital Zoom.



Also, 8MP and 10MP isn't too much different depending on what you are using the camera for. If you are wanting to make up to 8X10 photos, then both will be fine, if you're going to be making poster size prints (20X30) the 10MP is a better bet for you.



Good luck!

Answer 3

Both cameras are reviewed at DPreview.com and while the FZ50 is now a little dated to todays standards in digital cameras it is a little better camera and I believe the lens is probably the difference maker here since both more then likely use the same sensor. I like many people have been waiting for Panasonic to upgrade their sensors in these lines which are about at maximum possible tweak levels as they can get. Have you looked into the Olympus line of the 570 or around that level? Interestingly enough the Olympus-Panasonic-Leica are very closely related sharing sensors while Olympus seems to be "almost" a spring board or a proto-type of what ultimately becomes Panasonics next offerings...

Answer 4

The more zoom, the more expensive. Also, it all depends on what you want to use the camera for.

Answer 5

i think the DMC-FZ18S is better because it is better looking.