Panasonic FZ300 vs Panasonic LX5

Two Generations, Different Visions: Panasonic FZ300 vs. LX5 - Which One Suits Your Photography Style?

When it comes to compact cameras with serious chops, Panasonic has consistently delivered intriguing contenders. The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ300 and the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX5 represent two distinct philosophies from Panasonic at different stages of the digital camera evolution. The FZ300 hails from 2015 with a hefty superzoom and a rugged build, while the LX5 harks back to 2011, flaunting a compact form with classic enthusiast features. Both cameras target users who want more than a casual snapshot but don't necessarily crave the bulk or complexity of interchangeable-lens systems.

Having tested thousands of cameras over my career, I love dissecting such pairs: it’s like peering into a time capsule of technology and design choices, all while figuring out who exactly benefits from each model. So let's delve deep into these two Panasonic gems to see how they stack up across multiple photography realms and technical benchmarks.

Built to Handle vs. Slipped-in-the-Pocket: First Impressions and Ergonomics

The Panasonic FZ300 immediately feels like a tool designed for rugged use. Its bridge camera body is solid, weather-sealed, and weighs in at a considerable 691 grams over 132x92x117mm. That’s a camera demanding presence - not for the minimalist pocket carry, but for when you want to handle everything from drizzle to dust without worry. The FZ300 features a fully articulated touchscreen - rare and very welcome in this category - making it versatile for tricky angles and video shooting.

In stark contrast, the LX5 is pure pocket-friendly charm. At just 271 grams and nearly half the size (110x65x43mm), it slips easily into a jacket pocket or purse. Its fixed, non-touch 3-inch screen with 460k-dot resolution and no built-in EVF (though an electronic viewfinder was optionally available) signals its compact, street-savvy approach. The LX5 has lost the ruggedness that the FZ300 boasts - it lacks any environmental sealing, so cautious use is key.

From a handling perspective, I experienced vastly different user interfaces. The FZ300's top dials and buttons deliver quick access to aperture, shutter, exposure compensation, and drive modes, geared for more engaged photographers wanting to adjust on the fly. The LX5’s controls are simpler, blending direct manual rings on the lens barrel with fewer physical buttons - perfect for photographic moments when subtlety counts, but less so for rapid-fire changes under pressure.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality: Small Sensors, Big Impact?

One might instinctively expect the FZ300, with a 1/2.3” sensor, to lag behind the LX5’s 1/1.63” sensor, and you'd be partly right. The LX5’s sensor measures 8.07x5.56mm (about 44.87mm²), considerably larger than the FZ300’s 6.17x4.55mm (28.07mm²). This difference in sensor size commonly correlates with better low-light performance, dynamic range, and noise control - an edge the LX5 holds.

The FZ300 uses a 12-megapixel CMOS sensor with a Venus Engine processor, while the LX5 sports a 10-megapixel CCD sensor leveraging the older but capable Venus Engine FHD processor. Even though the LX5’s sensor is an older CCD type, its larger size and higher DxO overall color depth (19.6 bits vs not tested for the FZ300) suggest better color fidelity and dynamic range in practical terms.

However, the FZ300 compensates somewhat with modern image processing, delivering respectable results with added flexibility, such as a wider ISO range (100-6400 native, no boosted ISO) and RAW capture capability - allowing power users to coax more from images during post-processing.

In my real-world experience, the LX5’s sensor shines for daylight and moderate low-light shooting, offering images with smoother gradations and subtle color rendition that CCD sensors historically excelled at. The FZ300, with its smaller sensor, tends to exhibit more noise at ISO 1600 and above but makes up for this with excellent image stabilization, mitigating shake, especially at longer focal lengths.

Lens Versatility: Zooming In with Style and Speed

Here’s where these cameras march to very different beats. The FZ300’s fixed 25-600mm equivalent lens stretches a compelling 24x zoom range at a constant f/2.8 aperture throughout. Talk about versatility! That aperture consistency is a remarkable achievement and quite telling of the camera’s ambition to support low-light shooting and shallow depth-of-field effects even at full telephoto length.

The LX5’s lens offers a 24-90mm equivalent zoom (3.8x) with an aperture spanning f/2.0-3.3, which favors wide-open shooting on the short end but quickly closes down as you zoom in. This range is obviously more modest and tailored to travel and casual use, emphasizing more natural perspectives and wider angle wrestling with tighter shots.

Real-world implications? The FZ300 offers a true Swiss-army-knife lens ideal for wildlife and sports photographers shooting subjects far away or in dynamic environments without switching gear. The constant f/2.8 is an asset for capturing subject isolation with creamy bokeh - a rarity in superzoom cameras.

The LX5’s lens excels in street and portrait photography where the shorter focal length and slightly larger sensor yield better background separation in available light, but it struggles to fill the frame with distant wildlife without cropping.

Autofocus, Burst Rates, and Speed: How Fast Can They Think and Shoot?

In the autofocus department, the FZ300’s 49 contrast-detection points combined with face detection and AF tracking capabilities make it a surprisingly competent performer in dynamic scenarios. Its burst shooting at 12 frames per second is a no-nonsense feature that’s a boon for wildlife or sports enthusiasts who want to nail fast action without lugging DSLR gear.

Conversely, the LX5 has only 23 focus points with just single AF mode and no continuous AF tracking, resulting in a laggard AF experience by today’s standards. Burst shooting is capped at 3 frames per second, which may frustrate those aiming to photograph fleeting moments.

In my testing over years, the FZ300’s AF system felt more reliable in varied lighting and fast-moving subjects, likely thanks to the later development and inclusion of advanced tracking algorithms. Although not on par with modern mirrorless or DSLR systems, it’s respectable, especially for a bridge camera.

Portraiture and Bokeh: Handling Skin Tones and Background Blur

Portraiture tests always underscore the sensor and lens synergy. The LX5, thanks to its larger sensor and comparatively wider aperture at f/2.0, produces smoother bokeh with more natural separation from the background - lending images a film-like quality that pleases portrait photographers.

The FZ300, whilst impressive at f/2.8, faces challenges creating that creamy background blur because of the deeper depth of field inherent to smaller sensors, even at long focal lengths. However, the constant aperture lets you consistently manage exposure and maintain sharp eye focus.

Both cameras offer some face detection autofocus, but the FZ300’s implementation feels more robust with touch AF support on its articulated screen. Unfortunately, neither offers animal eye AF, a modern feature becoming a must-have for pet and wildlife portrait shooters.

Landscape Photography: Who Grabs the Details and Handles the Elements?

For landscape photographers, image quality - and the ability to survive outdoors - are paramount. Here the LX5’s larger sensor and a well-performing CCD deliver higher dynamic range (measured DxO dynamic range is 10.8 stops) and excellent color gradation crucial in landscape scenes capturing subtle light transitions.

However, the FZ300's 12 MP sensor offers 4000x3000 pixel resolution, a notch above the LX5's 3648x2736 pixels, theoretically providing more detail for large prints or cropping. Yet image quality isn’t just about pixels; lens sharpness and sensor size count heavily.

The FZ300 holds a vital trump card: environmental sealing. Its dustproof and splashproof construction means you can confidently shoot in unpredictable weather - a prime requirement for serious landscape shooters trekking through mist or light rain. The LX5 lacks such protection, making outdoor use riskier.

Additionally, the FZ300’s fully articulated 3-inch touchscreen greatly aids composing shots from low or awkward angles found in landscape photography, compared to the LX5's fixed, lower-res screen.

Wildlife and Sports: Fast-Paced Performance and Reach

For wildlife and sports photography, autofocus speed, burst shooting, and zoom reach are critical. The FZ300’s 12 fps continuous shooting and 600mm equivalent lens range give serious cred to this camera as a no-frills wildlife workhorse. During extended wildlife sessions, I found its AF to be acceptably snappy and capable of keeping up with many fast critters, provided you’re good at anticipating action.

The LX5, with just a 3 fps burst and 90mm maximum focal length, is simply outgunned here. Autofocus is slower and less reliable for tracking moving animals or athletes. It shines more in controlled environments or as a casual travel camera where sporting action is incidental rather than the main event.

Street Photography: Discreet, Quick, and Ready

Street photography calls for discretion, responsiveness, and often low-light capability. Here, the LX5’s compact, pocketable form and quieter operation are noteworthy advantages. Its smaller zoom range encourages faster composition adjustments and less "camera looming" that can intimidate subjects.

The FZ300’s larger size, articulated screen, and louder zoom mechanism may make it less suitable for unobtrusive street shooting. However, in dimly lit urban settings, the FZ300’s image stabilization and constant f/2.8 aperture offer tangible benefits for sharp hand-held shots.

Macro Photography: Getting Close and Personal

Both cameras can focus as close as 1cm, allowing for interesting macro exploration. However, the FZ300’s longer zoom and optical stabilization shine here. It enables handheld macro shooting with reduced shake at extreme close-ups, a real plus for nature photographers who want flexibility without a tripod.

The LX5, while adept in controlled macro settings, lacks stabilization sophistication and has a smaller sensor which limits the depth and detail in macro textures.

Night and Astro Photography: Pushing the Limits of Darkness

Low-light capability is a known Achilles' heel for small sensor cameras. The LX5’s CCD sensor historically offers cleaner, more natural images but with limited ISO (DxO low-light ISO at 132). The FZ300’s CMOS sensor is more aggressive in ISO range (up to 6400) but introduces more noise at high ISO settings.

Neither camera is a star in serious night or astrophotography, lacking long exposure controls beyond 60 seconds and without advanced noise reduction modes for astrophotography. For casual night shots, the FZ300's stabilization and aperture help tremendously; for cleaner twilight images, the LX5's larger sensor is slightly advantageous.

Video Capabilities: Moving Pictures and Sound

Video is where things get interesting. The FZ300 supports 4K UHD video at 30fps and 24fps, alongside Full HD at up to 60fps, making it capable of high-resolution, smooth motion capture. It also includes a microphone input - essential for better audio quality in video production.

The LX5 tops out at 720p HD video at 60fps, significantly behind in resolution and versatility, and does not have any microphone or headphone jacks. Its lack of touchscreen and stabilization in video mode makes handheld shooting less steady.

For hybrid shooters who want solid video alongside stills in one package, the FZ300 is clearly head and shoulders above the LX5.

Battery Life and Storage: Staying Powered for the Long Haul

The FZ300 delivers a respectable 380 shots per charge using a proprietary battery pack. It uses a single SD card slot but supports SDHC and SDXC standards, allowing use of fast, high-capacity cards - indispensable for 4K video and long burst shooting.

The LX5’s battery life is unspecified in official specs, but historically, it hovers around 300 shots per charge. It also uses a single SD card slot but supports internal memory, a minor convenience. The lack of wireless connectivity or fast USB charging reflects its earlier market positioning.

Connectivity and Workflow Integration: Keeping Up with Today's Tech

The FZ300 includes built-in Wi-Fi for wireless image transfer and remote control - a leap forward for 2015. It also features HDMI output and USB 2.0. These features integrate well into modern workflows for on-the-go sharing or tethered shooting setups.

The LX5, being from 2011, lacks built-in wireless connectivity entirely, relying on USB 2.0 and HDMI only. This can be a genuine hurdle for photographers accustomed to instant image sharing or wireless backup.

Price and Value: Which One Offers More Bang for Your Buck?

At roughly $598, the Panasonic FZ300 is priced as a mid-range bridge camera targeting enthusiasts wanting rugged versatility and good video specs. By contrast, the LX5 comes in under $300 on average, appealing as a quality compact camera with respectable image quality for less ambitious shoots.

Considering the FZ300’s larger zoom range, environmental sealing, 4K video, more advanced autofocus, and articulated touchscreen, the price delta is justified. Yet, for photographers prioritizing discretion, portability, and daylight image quality, the LX5 remains a bargain.

Performance Ratings and Genre-Specific Scores

These performance charts reflect extensive benchmarking and real-world testing. The FZ300’s combined score outpaces the LX5, particularly excelling in sports, wildlife, travel, and video categories thanks to its advanced features and durability. The LX5 holds its ground in street, macro, and some portrait roles.

Sample Gallery: Real Images Tell the Fuller Story

Panasonic FZ300 front Panasonic FZ300 screen back Panasonic LX5 front Panasonic LX5 screen back

Here you can see side-by-side images reflecting both cameras’ output under a variety of conditions - from sharp daylight landscapes to intimate portraits and high-contrast street scenes. Notice the FZ300’s deeper zoom reach and consistent sharpness at telephoto, while the LX5’s images sport richer tonality and smoother background transitions.

The Verdict: Who Should Choose the Panasonic FZ300 or LX5?

Both cameras are stars in their own right but serve different photography ethos.

Choose the Panasonic FZ300 if you:

• Need a rugged, weather-sealed all-in-one superzoom for travel, wildlife, or sports
• Want advanced video with 4K capture and microphone input
• Prefer a versatile articulating touchscreen for flexible shooting angles
• Desire fast autofocus and high burst rates for action photography
• Are comfortable carrying a larger, heavier camera for extended shoots

Go for the Panasonic LX5 if you:

• Want a compact, pocketable camera with manual controls for street, travel, and portrait photography
• Prioritize superior daylight image quality and smoother skin tones over zoom range
• Prefer a simpler, more discreet camera without the bulk and complexity
• Shoot mostly still images over videos
• Are on a tighter budget or want a quality secondary camera

Closing Thoughts: Testing and Experience Beyond Specs

In my hands-on experience, the FZ300 shines as a do-everything camera that doesn’t require swapping lenses, making it a keen choice for enthusiasts and pros needing a dependable backup or travel camera. Its thoughtful blend of technological advances and rugged reliability make it a rather timeless superzoom even years after release.

The LX5, though aging, remains an elegant compact with lovely image quality for certain uses - especially if you prize portability and classic styling. It’s a reminder that bigger sensors and better lenses make all the difference.

It boils down to your priorities: portability and subtlety (LX5) or power and versatility (FZ300). Either way, both cameras highlight Panasonic’s knack for marrying innovation with photographer needs - even if they cater to different chapters in that story.

I hope this deep dive helps you decide precisely which Panasonic to add to your photographic arsenal - or at least appreciate the art of camera design evolution. Happy shooting!