Panasonic DMC-G10

Category:	Type:	Image Sensor	:
Point-and-Shoot	Compact	EVF	:
Beginner	Ultra Compact	Image Stabilization	:
Serious	Ultra Zoom	Display	:
Advanced	DSLR	Shooting Mode	:
Pro	DIL	Shutter Speed	:
		Burst	:
		Movie	:
		Price check…	:

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-G10 is a 12.1MP Family DIL (Digital Interchangeable Lens) camera that brings DSLR image quality and performance into a much more compact and lightweight body. It does this doing away with the traditional reflex mirror / prism / viewfinder in a DSLR and instead using a high resolution Live View Finder (LVF) and Live View LCD display. The Lumix G10 succeeds in being much more compact and lightweight than a DSLR. It is not pocket-sized but its handgrip makes for comfortable handling.

Where the Panasonic DIL cameras trump traditional DSLRs is in their implementation of Live View. Unlike the slow Live View Contrast Detect focus on DSLRs, the Lumix G10’s Contrast Detect AF is lightning fast, approaching the speed of the Phase-detect AF on entry-level DSLRs. The use of a large Four Thirds sensor and new high-speed, high-performance Venus Engine HD II allows the G10 to deliver DSLR-level image quality, including at high ISOs. The performance and image quality of the Lumix G10 allow it to comfortably compete with entry-level DSLRs.

The large 3.0-in. LCD is has a high 460,000 dots resolution and a fast 60fps refresh rate for a bright, clear and smooth display. An Intelligent LCD function automatically increases the backlight brightness in bright sunlight according to the ambient light intensity and automatically adjusts the frame rate (“gains up”) in dimly lit conditions according to the ambient darkness to help provide a better view in those challenging situations. The LCD is sharp enough to allow accurate manual focus. Its refresh rate is fast enough to allow tracking a moving subject.

The Lumix G10 caters to both the point-and-shoot crowd and to more advanced users. Its Intelligent AUTO (iA) function and Scene modes help beginners ease into using the G10. More advanced users will appreciate the availability of PASM modes for full exposure flexibility.

Other features include Dust Reduction and many of the features that Panasonic has popularized in its popular digicams. There is no built-in image stabilization since the Panasonic G10 relies on I.S. beng in the lens, such as in the new LUMIX G VARIO 14-42mm (28-84mm equiv.)/F3.5-5.6 ASPH/MEGA O.I.S. kit lens.

The Panasonic G10 uses the SD / SDHC / SDXC memory card.

If you are considering upgrading from your point-and-shoot digicam, the compact and elegant Panasonic Lumix DMC-G10 is an ideal Family DIL that provides DSLR image quality and performance without the latter’s bulk and weight. The DIL is the future of DSLRs and Panasonic is leading in this field.