Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ1000 II

The Lumix DC-FZ1000 II from Panasonic is the successor to the popular Lumix DMC-FZ1000. At first glance, there are hardly any differences: Both have a 1-inch sensor, resolve with 20 megapixels, cover a focal length range of 25 to 400 millimetres (16x zoom) and offer a speed of f/2.8-4. So what has changed? Are there any new features? Let’s take a look at the new model.

The new bridge camera has mainly been brought up to date technically. For example, the FZ1000 II has a touch screen that allows you to use the touch autofocus and other function buttons. The display now also enjoys a slightly higher resolution. Nothing has changed in terms of mobility. It can still be swivelled and flipped, allowing you to take pictures from various perspectives. In general, Panasonic has made small improvements to details: a larger viewfinder, more buffer memory for continuous pictures and, in addition to a WLAN connection, you can now also connect smartphones, tablets or PCs to the camera via Bluetooth. This saves precious battery capacity! Speaking of which: the battery has become longer-lasting and is now said to be able to take up to 440 instead of just 360 shots (according to CIPA standard).

What new features are you offering?

The 4K photo function allows you to capture subjects that move very quickly and cannot be satisfactorily captured with the classic continuous shooting function. The shots offer a resolution of 8.4 megapixels. You can choose between a picture series, which optionally takes pictures before the shutter is released, and focus series, where you can select the photo with the best focus afterwards. You can also use stacking to combine your series into one image for a photo with a high depth of field. Attention videographers! If you want to shoot 4K movies, you can now do so at 30 frames per second instead of 25. After much criticism of the previous model, Panasonic has now fixed the 4K video frame rates for PAL (Europe) and NTSC (USA). Frame rates of 60 instead of 50 frames per second are now possible for Full HD recordings. The Lumix DC-FZ1000 II also has a microphone connection.

Is it worth switching from the predecessor?

Suppose you attach great importance to the 4K photo function and a touchscreen, as well as like to connect the camera wirelessly with other devices. In that case, the new bridge camera is attractive. A change is worthwhile in this case. The predecessor, now 5 years old, is considered partially obsolete. However, Panasonic points out that the DC-FZ1000 II is about detail improvements. So if you don’t need features, you still get a good model with the FZ1000 for just under 300 euros less. This could also be relevant for newcomers. Before buying, it is best to consider which features are important to you and what you can do without.