Go To Latest Video ReviewsPanasonic Announces Even More New Compact Cameras
| Author | Cliff Smith |
| Published | 27th Jan 2009 |
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TrustedReviews NewslettersThe FX double-digit series is Panasonic’s ultra-compact flagship. Previous models such as the FX33, FX35 and FX37 (launched last July) have been critically acclaimed and extremely popular, helping to put Panasonic into its current strong position in the compact camera market.
The latest in the series is the newly announced DMC-FX40, which features the same ultra-slim all-metal body and 5x zoom Leica DC f/2.8 25-125mm lens as the FX37, but inevitably boosts the sensor resolution to 12.1MP. Other features are also the same as the FX37, including the 2.5-inch 230k dot LCD monitor with auto brightness control, the Intelligent Auto and scene modes and of course the Mega OIS optical image stabilisation system.
Incidentally, I’m well aware that the OIS in “Mega OIS” stands for Optical Image Stabilisation, and that therefore typing out “Mega OIS optical image stabilisation system” is a an exercise in redundancy, but Panasonic chose the name, not me.
The FX40 does differ from the FX37 in one very important respect. It is fitted with the brand-new Venus Engine V processor, a distinction it shares with only the also-new FX500. This sophisticated dual-CPU system promises lower image noise and faster performance, with 2.3fps burst shooting at full resolution and 0.007-second shutter lag, with enough processing power left over to provide face recognition functions. It is also more energy-efficient, boosting the battery life to a claimed 350 shots per charge.
The FX40 will be available from April 2009, in a choice of black, silver or red.
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Espen Ruud said on 28th January 2009
SpiderJacek said on 28th January 2009
@Espen Ruud - we're talking about new TZ6/TZ7 here, not TZ5 :)
CarlosTheJackal said on 4th February 2009
Hey PS3˝ - from Panasonic's own site, it specifically states that the optical zoom CAN be used while recording for the TZ6 and the TZ7, which is pretty ace news. Linky: http:/... more
bobsta said on 15th February 2009
I can't believe it. They're releasing the DMC-TZ7 with what looks like better sound quality for video capture. Only bought my TZ5 back in December!
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According to Sweedish manual p52 for TZ-5 is 720p 30fps max performance. Zoom is operating slower, and zoom noise "might be" recorded according to same page.