Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ1

Time Machine: Yesterday's looks, today's brains.

The DMC-TZ1, announced in February 2006, takes the successful big zoom formula established with the FZ series of cameras and squeezes it into a much more compact body. The result is the world's smallest optically stabilized 10x zoom camera (on a technical note this was also the world's first use of a retractable lens system with folded optics). Whilst not what you'd call 'pocketable' (unless you have very large pockets), the TZ1 is considerably less bulky than its 'SLR-like' siblings (and their competitors), and, though it offers little in the way of truly manual control, it is packed with features. So does the TZ1 prove that smaller can be better, or is it a case of diminishing returns? Let's find out, starting as usual with the headline features:

The DMC-TZ1, announced in February 2006, takes the successful big zoom formula established with the FZ series of cameras and squeezes it into a much more compact body. The result is the world's smallest optically stabilized 10x zoom camera (on a technical note this was also the world's first use of a retractable lens system with folded optics). Whilst not what you'd call 'pocketable' (unless you have very large pockets), the TZ1 is considerably less bulky than its 'SLR-like' siblings (and their competitors), and, though it offers little in the way of truly manual control, it is packed with features. So does the TZ1 prove that smaller can be better, or is it a case of diminishing returns? Let's find out, starting as usual with the headline features:

Compact and 10x zoom makes the TZ1 a good choice for travellers.Claimed as the smallest 10x zoom digital camera on the market, Panasonic's 5-megapixel DMC-TZ1 recently received the T.I.P.A. Award for the best 'Superzoom' digital camera in Europe. Among the reasons cited for the win are the camera's Optical Image Stabiliser (which is found in all Panasonic digicams) and the new Venus Engine III processor. The 'unlimited' burst mode, which lets users fire off a burst of shots at half-second intervals until the memory is full, also got a Guernsey, as did the integrated retractable lens system with its folded optics technology.

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If you need a 10X zoom in the a compact form factor, then the TZ1 is probably for you. However there are other cameras out there that take better shots, so if this isn't a primary concern you may be better served by another model.

Digital cameras with built-in shake compensating devices have been available for at least three years, but this feature is definitely increasing in popularity. At one time, an Image Stabilizer was considered to be necessary only with long telephoto lenses, but it's quickly making its way down the ranks. Today, you can find cameras with short 3x optical zooms that are equipped with an Anti-Shake device. Panasonic should get the credit for this trend. By 2005, all of their new Lumix cameras included the MEGA Optical Image Stabilizer. Other manufacturers

Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ1K

Panasonic DMC-TZ1 review, find out how the DMC-TZ1 stacks up against the competition in our real-world review with in-depth image quality comparisons.

Panasonic is going all out for 'more is less'

Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ1 (Compact Camera): 4 out of 5 stars on Australia's largest opinion site ProductReview.com.au.

Great specification and excellent handling is marred by OTT image noise. Nevertheless, it’s an interesting and temptingly specified camera