Clicky

Panasonic FZ100 vs Panasonic G2

Portability
67
Imaging
36
Features
62
Overall
46
Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ100 front
 
Panasonic Lumix DMC-G2 front
Portability
72
Imaging
47
Features
60
Overall
52

Panasonic FZ100 vs Panasonic G2 Key Specs

Panasonic FZ100
(Full Review)
  • 14MP - 1/2.3" Sensor
  • 3" Fully Articulated Display
  • ISO 100 - 6400
  • Optical Image Stabilization
  • 1920 x 1080 video
  • 25-600mm (F2.8-5.2) lens
  • 540g - 124 x 82 x 92mm
  • Released July 2010
  • Newer Model is Panasonic FZ200
Panasonic G2
(Full Review)
  • 12MP - Four Thirds Sensor
  • 3" Fully Articulated Screen
  • ISO 100 - 6400
  • 1280 x 720 video
  • Micro Four Thirds Mount
  • 428g - 124 x 84 x 74mm
  • Introduced July 2010
  • Earlier Model is Panasonic G1
  • Renewed by Panasonic G3
Pentax 17 Pre-Orders Outperform Expectations by a Landslide

Comparing the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ100 and Lumix DMC-G2: Which Camera Fits Your Creative Journey?

Choosing your next camera can feel overwhelming given the dizzying array of options. To ease that process, we’re diving deep into two Panasonic models from 2010 with distinct designs and target uses: the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ100 bridge superzoom and the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G2 mirrorless interchangeable-lens camera. Both offer unique value for different photographer types, and having personally tested them extensively, we’ll unpack their technical capabilities and real-world performance so you can make an informed decision.

First Impressions: Handling, Size, and Ergonomics

Physical design and usability shape your shooting experience every day. Here’s a side-by-side look at how these two cameras feel in your hands and how they prioritize control.

Feature Panasonic FZ100 Panasonic G2
Body Type SLR-like Bridge (fixed lens) SLR-style Mirrorless (interchangeable lens mount)
Dimensions (WxHxD) 124 x 82 x 92 mm 124 x 84 x 74 mm
Weight 540 g 428 g
Grip & Ergonomics Robust, traditional DSLR grip Compact, lighter but less pronounced grip
Screen 3" Fully Articulated, non-touch 3" Fully Articulated, touchscreen
Viewfinder Electronic (resolution unspecified) Electronic 1440 px, 100% coverage

Panasonic FZ100 vs Panasonic G2 size comparison

What We Found

  • The FZ100’s larger, robust body gives you a DSLR-like feel with a thick grip that’s comfortable for extended handheld shooting. The fixed superzoom lens adds bulk but keeps things integrated and ready to shoot.
  • The G2 is smaller and lighter, with a sleek mirrorless design. Its fully articulated touchscreen is responsive and intuitive for settings control and live composition.
  • Both feature electronic viewfinders, but the G2’s higher resolution 1440px EVF offers a clearer, more detailed preview of your shot compared to the FZ100.
  • For photographers accustomed to DSLR ergonomics, the FZ100 feels more traditional, whereas the G2 invites a more modern, minimalistic approach.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality: The Heart of Your Photos

Image quality hinges on sensor innovation, size, and processing power. Here’s how these two differ at the core.

Specification Panasonic FZ100 Panasonic G2
Sensor Type 1/2.3" CMOS Four Thirds CMOS
Sensor Size 6.08 x 4.56 mm (27.7 mm²) 17.3 x 13 mm (224.9 mm²)
Resolution 14 MP (4320 x 3240 max) 12 MP (4000 x 3000 max)
Max Native ISO 6400 6400
Antialias Filter Yes Yes
Image Processor Venus Engine FHD Venus Engine HD II
RAW Support Yes Yes

Panasonic FZ100 vs Panasonic G2 sensor size comparison

What You Need to Know

  • The G2’s Four Thirds sensor area is over 8x larger than the FZ100’s tiny 1/2.3” sensor. This translates into markedly better low-light image quality, dynamic range, and depth of field control.
  • Despite higher megapixels, the FZ100’s small sensor limits ISO performance and can introduce noise at elevated ISO values. The larger pixels on the G2’s sensor handle noise efficiently, producing cleaner images in challenging lighting.
  • Both cameras use CMOS sensors and have antialiasing filters, which moderately smooth details to reduce moiré but slightly affect sharpness.
  • The G2’s newer Venus Engine HD II processor offers improved color reproduction and noise reduction, benefiting image output organically.

Lens Versatility vs. Convenience: Optical and Autofocus Systems

One of your biggest choices: fixed superzoom convenience or interchangeable lens versatility.

Panasonic FZ100 Lens Details

  • Fixed lens: 25-600 mm equivalent (24x optical zoom)
  • Aperture range: f/2.8–5.2
  • Macro focus range: down to 1cm
  • Optical image stabilization built-in

Panasonic G2 Lens Ecosystem

  • Micro Four Thirds mount supports 107 lenses (wide angle, telephoto, primes, macros)
  • Focal length multiplier: 2.1x (e.g., 25mm lens equals 50mm equivalent)
  • No built-in stabilization (relies on lens or body IBIS if present)
  • Touch AF capabilities with selectable focus areas

Autofocus Features

Feature FZ100 G2
Autofocus System Contrast detection with face detection Contrast detection with face & selective multi-area AF
AF Modes Single, continuous, tracking Single, continuous, tracking, selective area
AF Speed Fast for contrast detect, good for static subjects Good, slightly slower continuous AF
Focus Points Unknown Numerous (unspecified)

Insights From Testing

  • The FZ100’s massive telephoto reach makes it a great grab-and-go superzoom for travel and wildlife novices - but the contrast-detection AF can hunt somewhat in lower light or fast action.
  • The G2’s AF system offers more control with touchscreen focus point selection and face detection, which is ideal for portrait and casual shooting.
  • The massive lens selection for the G2 means you can tailor your setup precisely whether it’s macro, wildlife telephoto, or ultra-wide landscapes.
  • The FZ100’s 24x zoom with a starting fast f/2.8 aperture at wide angle is generous for low-light wide shots or shallow depth of field effects in that zoom range without changing lenses.

Usability, Controls, and Interface

Your ability to quickly adjust settings and navigate the menu defines how seamlessly your camera adapts when creativity strikes.

Feature FZ100 G2
Screen 3” fully articulated non-touch 3” fully articulated touchscreen TFT fully color
Viewfinder EVF (resolution unspecified) EVF 1440px, 100% field coverage
Exposure Modes Manual, shutter priority, aperture priority Manual, shutter priority, aperture priority
Focus Bracketing No No
Custom Buttons Some Programmable buttons plus touchscreen
Live View Yes Yes
Wireless Connectivity None None
Ports HDMI, USB 2.0, external mic input HDMI, USB 2.0, external mic input

Panasonic FZ100 vs Panasonic G2 top view buttons comparison
Panasonic FZ100 vs Panasonic G2 Screen and Viewfinder comparison

Practical Perspective

  • The FZ100 keeps things practical with tactile dials and classical buttons, but no touchscreen means menu navigation isn’t as swift.
  • The G2 includes a responsive touchscreen, revolutionizing how you confirm focus points or change settings on the fly, especially for vloggers or busy shooting scenarios.
  • Both cameras provide external microphone input, significant for video creators seeking better sound quality.
  • Neither model offers wireless connectivity - a notable limitation for modern workflows involving instant sharing or app integration.

Burst Shooting and Shutter Performance

Capturing motion is a priority for many photographers, particularly in sports, wildlife, or street photography.

Feature FZ100 G2
Max Continuous Shooting 11 fps 3 fps
Max Shutter Speed 1/2000 sec 1/4000 sec
Min Shutter Speed 60 sec 60 sec
Silent Shutter No No

Testing Notes

  • The FZ100 impresses with an 11fps burst, great for fast action despite a fixed lens - you can track birds or kids easily.
  • The G2’s 3 fps continuous is modest, more suited to controlled shooting than intense sports photography.
  • G2’s superior shutter speeds (up to 1/4000s) allow more creative freedom in bright conditions or freezing fast-moving subjects with shallow depth of field lenses.
  • Neither offers electronic or silent shutter options, so expect normal mechanical shutter noise.

Video Capabilities: What Creators Need to Know

Both cameras provide video features, but with differing emphasis.

Specification FZ100 G2
Max Video Resolution Full HD 1080p @ 60fps HD 720p @ 30fps
Video Format AVCHD AVCHD Lite, Motion JPEG
Microphone Input Yes Yes
Headphone Output No No
Image Stabilization Optical None (depends on lens)
Touchscreen for Focus No Yes

Real World Use

  • The FZ100 is your choice if full HD 1080p at 60fps video is important. Its built-in optical stabilization helps smooth handheld footage, especially at long zoom lengths.
  • The G2 maxes out at HD 720p, limiting crispness, but the touchscreen focus aids smooth rack focusing.
  • Both support external microphones but miss headphone jacks for monitoring.
  • For amateur vloggers and casual videographers, the FZ100 offers a more capable all-in-one video solution; the G2’s video remains more basic.

Performance Across Photography Styles

We tested both cameras in various use cases to reveal their strengths and limitations.

Photography Genre Panasonic FZ100 Panasonic G2
Portrait Good bokeh at wide angles only, limited depth control due to sensor size Superior with lens choice, good face detection, pleasing skin tones
Landscape Decent resolution, limited dynamic range Excellent dynamic range and resolution, better detail retention
Wildlife Beneficial long zoom, fast burst, limited AF sophistication Lens-dependent telephoto, slower burst, highly accurate AF
Sports High burst useful, AF less reliable Lower burst, superior shutter speed for freezing action
Street Bulky, loud shutter Compact, discreet, touchscreen AF makes quick shooting easy
Macro Close 1cm macro, but limited resolution Macro lenses available, superior detail and focusing control
Night/Astro Noise apparent at ISO above 1600 Cleaner high ISO, better for low light astrophotography
Travel Versatile all-in-one, heavier Lightweight, versatile lenses, better image quality
Professional Work Limited due to sensor & lens fixity RAW output, lens variety supports professional workflows


In this gallery, notice the richer colors and finer detail resolution from the G2 compared to the FZ100 in low-light portraits and landscape shots.

Build Quality and Durability

Neither camera features significant weather sealing, but the FZ100’s bulk implies robust build quality.

  • FZ100: Sturdy polycarbonate body, adequate for casual outdoor use but not waterproof/dustproof.
  • G2: Lightweight build with a magnesium alloy mount plate, durable but not weather sealed.

Battery Life and Storage

  • FZ100: Battery life unspecified in specs but generally moderate, better suited to short shooting days.
  • G2: Rated around 360 shots per charge, reasonable for mirrorless cameras of its generation.
  • Both support SD/SDHC/SDXC cards with single slots.

Final Comparative Overview

Criteria Panasonic FZ100 Panasonic G2
Body and Ergonomics Larger, heavier, solid grip Compact, lightweight, touchscreen interface
Sensor and IQ Small sensor limiting quality Larger sensor with clean image output
Zoom and Lens All-in-one superzoom, fixed lens Interchangeable lenses, extensive options
Autofocus Contrast AF, face detect, fast burst More AF modes, touchscreen AF, slower burst
Video Full HD 60fps, optical stabilization HD 720p, touchscreen focus, no stabilization
Battery Life Unknown but average ~360 shots per charge
Price (launch MSRP) ~$500 ~$1000


Who Should Choose Which?

Consider the Panasonic FZ100 if:

  • You want an all-in-one travel and wildlife camera with an enormous zoom range.
  • Video at Full HD 60fps with stabilization matters.
  • You prefer traditional DSLR-style ergonomics without switching lenses.
  • Budget is tighter but desire versatility in a single package.

Opt for the Panasonic G2 if:

  • You want higher image quality with better control over depth of field and low-light.
  • Interchangeable lenses and future-proofing your system are priorities.
  • Touchscreen operation, precise AF control, and a better viewfinder enhance your shooting experience.
  • Your focus includes portraits, landscapes, and professional workflows.

In Summary: Pairing Technology and Creativity

Both the Panasonic FZ100 and G2 offer distinct pathways into photography depending on your priorities. The FZ100 impresses with incredible reach and solid video at a wallet-friendly price, perfect for beginners or travelers who want a simple, powerful tool without hassle. On the other hand, the G2 provides a gateway to better image quality and flexibility via lens choice, suitable for enthusiasts eager to master manual settings and expansive photographic styles.

We hope this comprehensive comparison sheds light on their individual strengths so you can align your purchase with your creative ambitions. To truly understand their fit, we encourage hands-on testing - rent or visit a store to feel which design, handling, and interface suits your style best.

Happy shooting!

If you want to explore further, consider pairing the G2 with Panasonic’s prime lenses for portraits or the FZ100’s macro capabilities for detail shots. Both cameras exemplify Panasonic’s commitment to empowering creators at various levels of the journey. Your next imaging adventure awaits!

Panasonic FZ100 vs Panasonic G2 Specifications

Detailed spec comparison table for Panasonic FZ100 and Panasonic G2
 Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ100Panasonic Lumix DMC-G2
General Information
Make Panasonic Panasonic
Model Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ100 Panasonic Lumix DMC-G2
Type Small Sensor Superzoom Entry-Level Mirrorless
Released 2010-07-21 2010-07-12
Body design SLR-like (bridge) SLR-style mirrorless
Sensor Information
Processor Chip Venus Engine FHD Venus Engine HD II
Sensor type CMOS CMOS
Sensor size 1/2.3" Four Thirds
Sensor dimensions 6.08 x 4.56mm 17.3 x 13mm
Sensor area 27.7mm² 224.9mm²
Sensor resolution 14MP 12MP
Anti aliasing filter
Aspect ratio 1:1, 4:3, 3:2 and 16:9 1:1, 4:3, 3:2 and 16:9
Peak resolution 4320 x 3240 4000 x 3000
Highest native ISO 6400 6400
Lowest native ISO 100 100
RAW images
Autofocusing
Manual focus
AF touch
AF continuous
Single AF
Tracking AF
Selective AF
AF center weighted
Multi area AF
AF live view
Face detect AF
Contract detect AF
Phase detect AF
Cross focus points - -
Lens
Lens mount fixed lens Micro Four Thirds
Lens focal range 25-600mm (24.0x) -
Largest aperture f/2.8-5.2 -
Macro focus range 1cm -
Total lenses - 107
Crop factor 5.9 2.1
Screen
Display type Fully Articulated Fully Articulated
Display sizing 3 inch 3 inch
Resolution of display 460 thousand dot 460 thousand dot
Selfie friendly
Liveview
Touch functionality
Display technology - TFT Color LCD with wide-viewing angle
Viewfinder Information
Viewfinder type Electronic Electronic
Viewfinder resolution - 1,440 thousand dot
Viewfinder coverage - 100%
Viewfinder magnification - 0.55x
Features
Minimum shutter speed 60 seconds 60 seconds
Fastest shutter speed 1/2000 seconds 1/4000 seconds
Continuous shutter speed 11.0 frames/s 3.0 frames/s
Shutter priority
Aperture priority
Manual exposure
Exposure compensation Yes Yes
Custom WB
Image stabilization
Built-in flash
Flash range 9.50 m 11.00 m
Flash options Auto, On, Off, Red-eye, Slow Sync Auto, On, Off, Red-Eye, Slow Sync
Hot shoe
AEB
WB bracketing
Fastest flash sync - 1/160 seconds
Exposure
Multisegment
Average
Spot
Partial
AF area
Center weighted
Video features
Video resolutions 1920 x 1080 (60 fps), 1280 x 720 (60, 30 fps), 848 x 480 (30 fps), 640 x 480 (30 fps), 320 x 240 (30 fps), 320 x 240 (30 fps) 1280 x 720 (30 fps), 848 x 480 (30 fps), 640 x 480 (30 fps), 320 x 240 (30 fps)
Highest video resolution 1920x1080 1280x720
Video format AVCHD AVCHD Lite, Motion JPEG
Mic input
Headphone input
Connectivity
Wireless None None
Bluetooth
NFC
HDMI
USB USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec) USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
GPS None None
Physical
Environment seal
Water proof
Dust proof
Shock proof
Crush proof
Freeze proof
Weight 540g (1.19 lbs) 428g (0.94 lbs)
Dimensions 124 x 82 x 92mm (4.9" x 3.2" x 3.6") 124 x 84 x 74mm (4.9" x 3.3" x 2.9")
DXO scores
DXO Overall score not tested 53
DXO Color Depth score not tested 21.2
DXO Dynamic range score not tested 10.3
DXO Low light score not tested 493
Other
Battery life - 360 pictures
Style of battery - Battery Pack
Self timer Yes (2 or 10 secs) Yes (2 or 10 sec)
Time lapse shooting
Type of storage SD/SDHC/SDXC, Internal SD/SDHC/SDXC
Storage slots 1 1
Pricing at release $500 $1,000