Camera Reviews: Panasonic Lumix GF5, Leica X2

The two cameras we're reviewing today are worlds apart. The Leica X2 is a compact camera with a large-format sensor, a 35 mm equivalent prime lens and old-school manual controls. The Panasonic GF5, on the other hand, is a modern, touchscreen compact with interchangeable lenses. It comes with a zoom lens and is clearly aimed at novice users with its wealth of automatic modes and settings.



The Panasonic Lumix GF5 promises the great picture quality and versatility of an interchangeable lens compact in a very compact package (with the 14-42 mm X lens, in any case). It's an easy-to-use and intelligent compact with a touchscreen interface. Plus, with Full HD video and stereo sound, it can even be used as an occasional camcorder. It's not overpriced either.

The Leica X2 is packed with direct access controls to key manual photography settings (speed, aperture, etc.). The fixed-focal-length lens promises excellent quality and the camera's relatively compact design could make it a great travel companion for advanced users. Beginners beware, though, as there are hardly any automatic modes and there's no video function whatsoever. Plus, the price tag is enough to make you go weak at the knees!

> Digital Cameras: SLR, Micro 4/3 and Interchangeable Lens Reviews