Panasonic FZ100 vs Panasonic G2
67 Imaging
36 Features
62 Overall
46


72 Imaging
47 Features
60 Overall
52
Panasonic FZ100 vs Panasonic G2 Key Specs
(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
(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

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 |
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 |
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 |
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
Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ100 | Panasonic 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 |