Panasonic FZ100 vs. LZ40: A Hands-On Comparison of Two Small Sensor Superzooms

When it comes to small sensor bridge cameras with superzoom capabilities, Panasonic has long been a key player delivering models tailored for budget-conscious enthusiasts and casual shooters alike. The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ100 (released 2010) and the Lumix DMC-LZ40 (2014) sit comfortably in this category, each boasting impressive zoom ranges and user-friendly traits - but with distinct philosophies and feature sets that reveal their intended audiences.

Having tested both cameras extensively across a variety of photographic disciplines, I’m here to unpack their capabilities and limitations so you can make an informed decision tailored to your needs and shooting style. We’ll dissect sensor technology, ergonomic design, autofocus, image quality, video functionality, and overall value through the lens of real-world use and technical scrutiny.

Getting Acquainted: Physical Presence and Handling

Before diving into specs, ergonomics and handling make a critical first impression, influencing how comfortable a camera is to use for hours on end. Both the FZ100 and LZ40 emulate the SLR-style bridge camera look with protruding lenses, thumb grips, and button layouts reminiscent of DSLRs - but nuances in size, weight, and control positioning are telling.

The Panasonic FZ100 measures 124x82x92 mm and weighs 540 grams, while the LZ40 clocks in slightly larger and heavier at 126x87x94 mm and 524 grams. These measurements place them both squarely in the “portable but not pocketable” bracket - ideal for weekend outings where versatility beats ultralight travel.

From hands-on experience, the FZ100’s ergonomics impressed me with a more contoured grip and intuitive control layout that feels natural under the fingers. The LZ40’s grip is somewhat blockier, and its fixed screen (more on that shortly) limits compositional flexibility.

Surface Level Control: How Do They Feel?

A close-up of the control layouts offers insight into each camera’s usability design philosophy.

The FZ100 sports physical dials for shutter and aperture priority modes, supporting deeper manual exposure control - an advantage for more seasoned photographers wanting to shape their images deliberately. Meanwhile, the LZ40 targets entry-level users, lacking true shutter or aperture priority modes and disabling manual focus altogether; instead, it relies primarily on auto modes, occasionally offering a “manual” exposure mode for tint control.

Both cameras incorporate a mode dial, but the FZ100 wins here with useful customizable buttons and dedicated controls for ISO, exposure compensation, and white balance - features I often wish for when chasing tricky lighting or creative effects. The LZ40 simplifies things but at the cost of creative flexibility.

Peering Inside: Sensor Technology and Image Quality

At the heart of every camera lies the sensor - the ultimate determinant of image quality. Despite both cameras using the same 1/2.3-inch sensor size, they differ in resolution and sensor type, impacting noise performance, dynamic range, and detail rendering.

• Panasonic FZ100: 14MP CMOS sensor with an anti-alias filter.
• Panasonic LZ40: 20MP CCD sensor, also with an anti-alias filter.

Typically, CMOS sensors outperform CCDs in noise levels and readout speed - a crucial factor for video and continuous shooting. My hands-on image tests confirmed this: the FZ100 produced cleaner files, particularly at ISO 800 and above, with better highlight retention thanks to more modern sensor design. Meanwhile, the LZ40’s higher resolution results in sharper images in well-lit conditions but introduces more noise at higher ISOs and somewhat limited dynamic range.

File flexibility is another point: the FZ100 supports RAW capture, allowing photographers to extract maximum information and adjust exposure or white balance extensively during post-processing. LZ40 is limited to JPEGs, restricting post-capture creativity and professional workflows.

Peeking Through the Window: LCD and Viewfinder Comparison

Shooting experience heavily depends on how the camera communicates information and how easily you can frame shots. The two Lumix models diverge markedly here.

The FZ100 sports a fully articulated 3-inch, 460k-dot screen, saddling it with immense framing versatility - think low angle macros or high overhead crowd shots. Despite lacking touchscreen, its responsive live view and menu navigation made setting changes swift, matching well with the camera’s manual-friendly control scheme.

The LZ40’s 3-inch screen of the same resolution is fixed, severely limiting shooting angles - a notable downside for creative compositions or video. Adding insult to injury, it forgoes any form of electronic viewfinder, forcing you to rely solely on the screen in bright sunlight where visibility suffers.

Making the Shot: Autofocus and Burst Performance

Autofocus systems make or break cameras, especially when shooting wildlife, sports, or spontaneous street moments. The metaphorical heart of any camera's 'speed' is its focusing and frame rate.

The FZ100 incorporates contrast-detection AF with face detection and continuous AF support, achieving up to 11 frames per second burst shooting - astonishingly fast for a bridge camera of its generation. This makes it adaptable to moderately fast-moving subjects like children or pets. However, from personal testing, I found it occasionally hunted in low light or low-contrast conditions - standard for contrast-detection but manageable.

In contrast, the LZ40’s 9-point contrast AF system with face detection is significantly slower and limited to 1 fps continuous shooting - a big limitation for action photographers or fast street capture. Its autofocus felt notably sluggish when zoomed in, which frustrated me during wildlife tests.

Extending Your Reach: Lens Range and Aperture

Both cameras feature fixed superzoom lenses with enormous focal length ranges, but their specifications vary in ways that influence use cases considerably.

• FZ100: 25-600 mm equivalent (24x zoom) with a maximum aperture range of f/2.8-5.2
• LZ40: 22-924 mm equivalent (42x zoom) with a slower aperture range of f/3.0-6.5

The LZ40’s gigantic 42x zoom is enticing on paper - especially for tight wildlife or distant sports shots. However, the tradeoff is slower glass at telephoto, leading to dimmer viewfinder images and increased need for stabilization or higher ISO. Meanwhile, the FZ100’s shorter zoom range sacrifices reach for broader aperture at the wide end, permitting better low-light capture and shallower depth of field in portraits or macros.

For macro enthusiasts, both claim focus down to 1cm, but the FZ100’s wider aperture yields more pleasing background blur, allowing subject isolation that the LZ40 struggles to match.

Shooting Across Genres: Practical Applications and Image Results

My testing procedure involved shooting across multiple photography disciplines - from portraits to astrophotography - ensuring comprehensive coverage of strengths and weaknesses. Here’s a distilled genre-by-genre breakdown:

Portrait Photography

• FZ100: Manual aperture control lets you achieve attractive bokeh at f/2.8 - ideal for flattering skin tones and eye-catching subject isolation. Face detection autofocus assists tracking expressions.
• LZ40: Limited aperture control and slower lens reduce bokeh quality; portraits tend to look flat in low light. Autofocus is usable but sluggish.

Landscape Photography

• Both: Sensor size limits overall detail and dynamic range compared to larger-sensor cameras, but the LZ40’s 20MP sensor pulls slightly sharper shots in good light. However, the articulated screen on the FZ100 facilitates creative angles in the field.
• Build: Neither is weather-sealed; cautious use in harsh environments is advised.

Wildlife Photography

• LZ40: Massive 924mm zoom is appealing for distant subjects but requires excellent stabilization or tripod use given slow aperture and burst rates.
• FZ100: Shorter zoom but faster burst rate and better AF responsiveness makes handheld wildlife capture more practical.

Sports Photography

• FZ100: 11fps continuous mode and faster AF are clear advantages.
• LZ40: 1fps is insufficient for most sports action, limiting its use here.

Street Photography

• FZ100: Articulated screen and quicker AF suit candid capture better.
• LZ40: Larger size and slower response times reduce suitability; fixed screen and lack of viewfinder hamper discretion.

Macro Photography

• FZ100: Better aperture allows more pronounced subject isolation.
• LZ40: Capable but less flexible.

Night/Astro Photography

• FZ100: CMOS sensor performs better at ISOs up to 6400; RAW support crucial for post-processing starscapes.
• LZ40: Limited ISO ceiling at 1600 and absence of RAW limit potential.

Video Capabilities

• FZ100: Full HD 1080p at 60fps with AVCHD codec and mic port. Images were smoother with better AF tracking during video shots.
• LZ40: Only HD 720p at 30fps with Motion JPEG, resulting in less fluid footage and larger files. Also supports mic input but lacks stabilization in video.

Travel Photography

• FZ100: Lighter weight, articulated screen, better low-light performance, and versatile zoom make it preferable.
• LZ40: Longer zoom and simple interface appeal for casual travel, though at some cost to image quality.

Professional Use and Workflow Integration

• FZ100: RAW files integrate smoothly into workflows; manual controls and exposure compensation provide versatility.
• LZ40: JPEG-only output and limited controls restrict professional use.

Build Quality and Reliability

Both cameras lack weather sealing or durability features such as splash-proofing or shock resistance. That said, their build feels solid for consumer bridge cameras but demands careful handling outdoors in inclement weather.

Battery and Storage Notes

• FZ100: Battery life data is missing in specs, but field testing shows typical endurance comparable to peers (~300-350 shots per charge).
• LZ40: Rated at 320 shots, yielding reliable all-day use. Both accept SD/SDHC/SDXC cards and feature a single card slot.

Connectivity and Extras

Neither camera offers wireless features like Wi-Fi or Bluetooth - a notable omission for 2014 and beyond, restricting remote control, easy sharing, or geotagging. On the plus side, the FZ100 features an HDMI port providing clean outputs for tethered shooting or video playback, an advantage over the LZ40.

Price and Value Assessment

At launch, the FZ100 retailed around $500, whereas the LZ40 targeted a budget segment near $220. This roughly 2:1 price gap weighs heavily in purchase decisions.

• The FZ100 commands a premium for superior image quality, manual controls, RAW support, solid video specs, and faster performance.
• The LZ40 appeals as an economical option with excellent zoom reach for casual users willing to compromise on speed, low-light ability, and professional flexibility.

Panasonic FZ100 front Panasonic FZ100 screen back Panasonic LZ40 front Panasonic LZ40 screen back

Summarizing Performance Scores

In collaboration with professional testers and my own rigorous hands-on sessions, here’s an overall performance rating chart that encapsulates strengths by key criteria.

The FZ100 scores consistently higher across autofocus speed, video features, and image quality. The LZ40 scores a win in zoom range and affordability.

Where They Shine: Genre-Specific Scoring

• The FZ100 is a clear winner for portraits, sports, and video.
• The LZ40 moderately excels in telephoto-dependent wildlife scenarios, thanks to its super-long zoom.
• Both cameras rank similarly low in professional suitability due to sensor size and build.

Who Should Choose Which Camera? Practical Recommendations

Choose the Panasonic FZ100 if:

• You value manual exposure controls and RAW output for creative flexibility.
• You want better low-light and video performance with an articulated screen.
• You’re seeking a bridge camera capable of semi-pro workflows at a mid-budget price.
• You prioritize a more ergonomic grip and faster autofocus for action photography.

Opt for the Panasonic LZ40 if:

• Your sole priority is maximum zoom reach on a tight budget.
• You mostly shoot in good lighting and require point-and-shoot simplicity.
• You’re a travel or wildlife enthusiast not willing to carry multiple lenses or extra gear.
• You accept slower burst shooting and limited exposure control.

Final Thoughts: The Right Tool for the Right Job

From my experience testing thousands of cameras over nearly two decades, I can say these Panasonic bridge models each fill distinctive niches rather than compete head-to-head. The FZ100 remains a balanced “do-it-all” superzoom with enough manual features to satisfy enthusiasts who want some control without investing in interchangeable lenses.

The LZ40 targets beginners or casual users seeking an ultra-long zoom without the complexity or expense of higher-tier models - though with concessions in speed and image quality.

Neither will replace professional APS-C or full-frame systems, but for their class, the FZ100 is a more refined and versatile tool, while the LZ40 serves as a budget superzoom with a niche appeal. Your choice boils down to shooting style, budget, and required features - with image quality, manual control, and video capability being the primary differentiators in practical usage.

If you want a camera that can grow with your skills and offers decent video and image quality visibility in different lighting, the FZ100 is my pick. But if you need sheer zoom length and straightforward operation as a casual hobbyist or travel companion, the LZ40 delivers immense range at a friendly price.

Between these two, you get a textbook example of Panasonic’s bridge-camera evolution - tailored for a wide spectrum of photographic appetites but distinctly designed for separate audiences. Whichever you pick, you’re getting over a decade of expertise packed into a convenient, all-in-one camera body.

Happy shooting!