Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX7 review - Expert Compact: Panasonic is back in competition
By Kevin Carter - Monday, February 18, 2013 Camera Review| Introduction | Measurement | Comparisons | Conclusion |
From the time of its introduction in 2005, the high-end Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX series has provided an attractive alternative to the mainstream (and longer running) G-series from Canon as well as the popular and more recent Nikon CoolPix P7000 series. Apart from the diminutive dimensions and low weight, the LX series offered very high image quality from the combination of a high-grade image-stabilized Leica-branded zoom and what was originally a wide-aspect ratio (16:9) 1/1.65-inch sensor.
Over the various iterations this has been replaced with a more conventional 4:3 aspect ratio 1/1.7-inch CCD and now MOS type imager in the LX7. As such with comparable imaging performance in all areas (with the exception perhaps of Low-Light ISO scores) the LX7 represents a serious challenge to both the Canon PowerShot G15 and the Nikon Coolpix P7700. The Leica zoom doesn’t match the focal range of either but the LX7 has an attractive range nonetheless. However, if greater low-light performance is critical, larger sensor compacts such as the Canon PowerShot G1X or Sony RX100 should also be considered.
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Added by sunnyflorida |
April 11
Why do you always ignore the lens?
Per your final comments that the G1x and RX100 should be considered for low light performance, you fail to mention that their fixed lenses are slower, thus needing an 1~3x increase in ISO to achieve similar exposure. To match the Lx-7 @90mm F/2.2 ISO 800, the G1X needs ISO 6400! If both images were compared the LX-7's is cleaner.
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Added by Emilie_DxOMark |
April 16
Re: Why do you always ignore the lens?
Hello!
Thanks for your interest in DxOMark. In such case we try to review only what we measured and here it is the sensor. Best regards, The DxOMark team Reply |
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Added by roger cooke |
February 19
LX7
This is a good review, but you don't mention prices? the LX7 is now going for $300. Another point is Silkypix which is given free for Panasonic cameras. For me this was important, as I find that very good and intuitive software for RAW processing. It would be good to compare Canon and Nikon in that regard also.
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Added by Emilie_DxOMark |
February 20
Re: LX7
Hello,
Thanks for your remark and support, price given in specification are only indicative. It corresponds most of the time to the launch price. We are working on solutions that could provide pricing information update but we can’t confirm when it will be done. Best regards, Reply |
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