Panasonic DMC-FZ18 vs. Panasonic DMC-FZ28

The FZ28 is Panasonic’s successor to the very well received FZ18. As a successor, it is expected that it should be better by some degree than the FZ18, and for most aspects, it certainly is. Probably the most significant difference between the two, is the FZ28’s move up from the 8 megapixel sensor on the FZ18. It now sports a 10 megapixel sensor that allows the user to pack a lot more photographic information into each shot.

Panasonic also introduced a new capability that was not found on the FZ18; the ability to record video clips in HD. Although the 1280×720 resolution and 30 fps are on the low-end of the HD range, it is still HD none the less. You can then stream these HD videos to an HD capable TV, via a separate data cable. Just don’t expect this still camera to compete with HD camcorders of respectable quality.

Changes have been made to the FZ28 interface to improve the overall experience of the user. The 2.5 inch LCD of the FZ18 has been replaced with a 2.7 inch display that sports an additional 30 thousand pixels (over and above the original 200 thousand pixel resolution of the FZ18). Although this is a step forward, it has been mitigated by changes to the viewfinder. Many early adopters have said the viewfinder is too small, and provided very little eye relief. Eye relief is the largest distance possible between the eye and viewfinder and is very relevant to people with glasses as they can’ bring the lens too close to their eyes.

Panasonic also provided a Record/Play toggle, right where your thumb would rest when shooting. This provides the user with quick and easy access to the previously shot pictures. This minor change can be very helpful to those who compulsively check the pictures they take. Lastly, the image processor of the FZ28 has been updated from the older Venus III engine, to the Venus IV. The Venus IV engine boasts of very high response times due to its multi-tasking capability.

Summary:

1. The FZ28 has a 10 megapixel sensor, while the FZ18 has an 8 megapixel sensor.

2. The FZ28 is capable of recording videos in HD, while the FZ18 is not.

3. The FZ28 has a much better LCD screen when compared to the FZ18.

4. The FZ28’s viewfinder is not as good as that of the FZ18.

5. The Record/Play button of the FZ28 is more accessible than that of the FZ18.

6. The FZ28 is equipped with the Venus IV engine, while the FZ18 has the older Venus III.

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