Quick summary
- The ISO range of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ72 extends from 100 to 1600, while the Canon PowerShot SX60 HS offers a wider range of 100 to 3200.
- The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ72 offers a 24x optical zoom, while the Canon PowerShot SX60 HS takes it a step further with an astonishing 65x optical zoom.
- The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ72 can capture up to 5 frames per second (fps) in burst mode, while the Canon PowerShot SX60 HS offers a slightly faster burst rate of 6.
The realm of superzoom compact cameras offers a tantalizing fusion of portability and versatility. Two contenders vying for dominance in this arena are the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ72 and the Canon PowerShot SX60 HS. Both boast impressive zoom ranges, but which one emerges as the superior choice? This comprehensive comparison will delve into their key features, performance, and user experiences to help you make an informed decision.
Image Quality
Sensor and Resolution
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ72 features a 1/2.3-inch CCD sensor with a resolution of 16.1 megapixels. In contrast, the Canon PowerShot SX60 HS employs a larger 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor with a higher resolution of 16.1 megapixels. CMOS sensors generally offer better low-light performance and dynamic range than CCD sensors.
ISO Range
The ISO range of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ72 extends from 100 to 1600, while the Canon PowerShot SX60 HS offers a wider range of 100 to 3200. A higher ISO range allows you to capture images in low-light conditions without excessive noise.
Image Stabilization
Both the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ72 and the Canon PowerShot SX60 HS feature optical image stabilization (OIS) to minimize camera shake, ensuring sharper images.
Lens and Zoom Range
Focal Length and Aperture
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ72 boasts a versatile Leica DC Vario-Elmarit lens with a focal length range of 25-600mm (35mm equivalent). The Canon PowerShot SX60 HS, on the other hand, features a slightly wider focal length range of 21-1365mm (35mm equivalent). Both lenses offer a variable aperture of f/2.8-5.9.
Optical Zoom
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ72 offers a 24x optical zoom, while the Canon PowerShot SX60 HS takes it a step further with an astonishing 65x optical zoom. This massive zoom range allows you to capture distant subjects with incredible detail.
Features and Functionality
LCD Screen
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ72 sports a 3-inch fixed LCD screen with a resolution of 460k dots. The Canon PowerShot SX60 HS, however, features a larger and more versatile 3.0-inch vari-angle LCD screen with a higher resolution of 922k dots. The vari-angle screen allows you to tilt and swivel it for more convenient viewing angles.
Viewfinder
Neither the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ72 nor the Canon PowerShot SX60 HS features an optical viewfinder.
Connectivity
Both cameras offer Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing you to transfer images wirelessly to your smartphone or tablet. The Canon PowerShot SX60 HS additionally supports NFC for quick and easy pairing.
Performance and Handling
Autofocus
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ72 utilizes a contrast-detect autofocus system, while the Canon PowerShot SX60 HS employs a more advanced hybrid autofocus system that combines contrast-detect and phase-detect autofocus. Hybrid autofocus systems generally offer faster and more accurate focusing.
Burst Shooting
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ72 can capture up to 5 frames per second (fps) in burst mode, while the Canon PowerShot SX60 HS offers a slightly faster burst rate of 6.4 fps.
Battery Life
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ72 is powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that provides approximately 300 shots per charge. The Canon PowerShot SX60 HS, on the other hand, utilizes a larger battery that offers a longer battery life of approximately 380 shots per charge.
Takeaways: The Verdict
Both the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ72 and the Canon PowerShot SX60 HS offer exceptional features and performance for superzoom compact cameras. However, the Canon PowerShot SX60 HS emerges as the superior choice due to its larger CMOS sensor, wider zoom range, faster autofocus, and vari-angle LCD screen. If you prioritize image quality, versatility, and ease of use, the Canon PowerShot SX60 HS is the camera for you.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
Q: Which camera has the better image quality?
A: The Canon PowerShot SX60 HS generally offers better image quality due to its larger CMOS sensor and higher ISO range.
Q: Which camera has the longer zoom range?
A: The Canon PowerShot SX60 HS boasts a significantly longer zoom range of 65x compared to the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ72’s 24x zoom.
Q: Which camera has the more versatile LCD screen?
A: The Canon PowerShot SX60 HS features a larger and more versatile vari-angle LCD screen, while the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ72 has a fixed LCD screen.