What to know
- The P950 offers a more extensive zoom range, better image quality in low light, and a faster autofocus system, but it comes at a significantly higher price.
- However, the Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ82 offers a more budget-friendly option with a compact design and impressive features, making it a great choice for casual photographers or those on a tighter budget.
- The Nikon P950 has a more extensive zoom range of 24-2000mm, while the Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ82 has a range of 20-1200mm.
The world of superzoom cameras is abuzz with the arrival of two formidable contenders: the Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ82 and the Nikon P950. Both cameras boast impressive zoom capabilities, advanced features, and sleek designs. But which one reigns supreme? In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the intricacies of each camera to determine the ultimate superzoom champion.
Image Quality
Sensor and Resolution
The Lumix DC-FZ82 features a 1/2.3-inch MOS sensor with an effective resolution of 18.1 megapixels. The Nikon P950, on the other hand, employs a larger 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor with a slightly higher resolution of 20.2 megapixels. While the difference in resolution is marginal, the P950’s larger sensor offers potential advantages in low-light conditions.
ISO Range and Noise Performance
Both cameras have a wide ISO range, with the Lumix DC-FZ82 covering ISO 100-25600 and the Nikon P950 spanning ISO 100-6400. However, the P950’s lower maximum ISO suggests better noise control at higher sensitivities.
Zoom Capabilities
Focal Length Range
The defining feature of superzoom cameras is their extensive focal length range, and both the Lumix DC-FZ82 and Nikon P950 deliver in this regard. The Lumix DC-FZ82 offers a focal length range of 20-1200mm (35mm equivalent), while the Nikon P950 boasts an even more impressive 24-2000mm range. This staggering reach enables both cameras to capture distant subjects with ease.
Optical Image Stabilization
Both cameras incorporate optical image stabilization (OIS) systems to minimize camera shake and ensure sharp images. The Lumix DC-FZ82 utilizes a 5-axis Hybrid OIS, while the Nikon P950 employs a Vibration Reduction (VR) system with an active mode for enhanced stability.
Features
Autofocus System
The Lumix DC-FZ82 employs a contrast-detect autofocus (AF) system with 225 focus points. The Nikon P950 uses a hybrid AF system that combines phase-detection and contrast-detection, providing faster and more accurate focusing.
Burst Shooting
For capturing fast-paced action, the Lumix DC-FZ82 can shoot up to 10 frames per second (fps) in burst mode. The Nikon P950 offers a slightly faster burst rate of 12 fps, allowing you to freeze even the most fleeting moments.
Video Capabilities
Both cameras offer 4K video recording capabilities, with the Lumix DC-FZ82 recording at 30p and the Nikon P950 recording at 25p or 30p. The Lumix DC-FZ82 also features a built-in microphone jack for external audio recording.
Design and Ergonomics
Body and Build Quality
The Lumix DC-FZ82 has a compact and lightweight body, weighing only 540 grams. The Nikon P950, on the other hand, is a larger and heavier camera, weighing 1005 grams. Both cameras feature a comfortable grip for extended shooting sessions.
Viewfinder and Display
The Lumix DC-FZ82 has a 0.39-inch electronic viewfinder (EVF) with a resolution of 2.36 million dots. The Nikon P950 has a larger 0.39-inch EVF with a slightly higher resolution of 2.36 million dots. Both cameras also feature a 3-inch LCD display with a resolution of 1.04 million dots.
Price and Value
The Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ82 is priced at around $350, while the Nikon P950 is priced at around $800. The P950 offers a more extensive zoom range, better image quality in low light, and a faster autofocus system, but it comes at a significantly higher price.
The Verdict: Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ82 vs Nikon P950
After a thorough comparison, the Nikon P950 emerges as the superior superzoom camera. Its larger sensor, wider zoom range, better image quality in low light, and faster autofocus system make it the ideal choice for photographers who demand the best. However, the Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ82 offers a more budget-friendly option with a compact design and impressive features, making it a great choice for casual photographers or those on a tighter budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which camera has a better zoom range?
A: The Nikon P950 has a more extensive zoom range of 24-2000mm, while the Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ82 has a range of 20-1200mm.
Q: Which camera has a larger sensor?
A: The Nikon P950 has a larger 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor, while the Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ82 has a 1/2.3-inch MOS sensor.
Q: Which camera is more expensive?
A: The Nikon P950 is priced at around $800, while the Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ82 is priced at around $350.
Q: Which camera is better for low-light photography?
A: The Nikon P950 has a larger sensor and lower maximum ISO, which suggests better noise control in low-light conditions.
Q: Which camera has a faster autofocus system?
A: The Nikon P950 has a hybrid AF system that provides faster and more accurate focusing.