PANASONIC LUMIX DMC-FX36 REVIEW

The compact digital camera market is becoming more saturated with manufacturers releasing new models blistering pace. Joining the pool is Panasonic lumix DC-Fz36, at SGD599

The specification of Lumix DMC-FX36:

• 10.1 megapixels CCD sensors
• Wide angle 4X optical zoom lens (25mm to 100mm equivalent of 35mm)
• 2.5 inch LCD
• Mega optical image stabiliser
• Venus Engine IV
• ISO 6400
• Intelligence Auto Mode, iA
• Automatic face detection
• Video mode at 1280X720 pixels, at 30 frames per second

Auto-focusing is fast in good lighting condition, with shutter lag an acceptable 0.5s. The image quality of the FX36 is impressive, with sharp pixel rendition, smooth skin tines and accurate colour reproduction.

The down side of the camera is the noise performance. At ISO 200, you start to notice little noise artifact surfacing.

Verdict

Despite increasing the megapixels count and adding a wider-angle lens, the performance of the Panasonic Lumix FX-36 is marred by noise artifacts.

If you can look beyond that flaw, you''ll probably find the camera a worthy companion thanks to its easy operation, compact body and wide-angle lens