Panasonic Presents Entry-Level Compacts

Panasonic today presented two entry-level compacts, the FS28 and FS40. These two models are destined for the ever-popular low-cost sector, but unlike many manufacturers' budget compacts, these snappers both boast optical stabilisation.

In terms of tech specs, the Panasonic Lumix FS28 is a clone of the S2 presented at CES (which was in turn a clone of last year's S3). It has the same 14-Megapixel CCD, 28-112 mm zoom lens with optical stabilisation (a rare feature in entry-level compacts) and a 2.6-inch screen with tight viewing angles.

The main difference between the two models is therefore their style, as the S2 is a smooth, sleek, rounded affair while the FS28 (not to be confused with the FZ28, an excellent bridge from 2008) has a chunkier, brick-style design. Both models are likely to come in at under £100.

The Panasonic Lumix FS40 (above) is a little more ambitious. It uses the same 14-Megapixel CCD and the same LCD but instead has a 24-120 mm zoom lens, again with optical stabilisation. Plus, the zoom control in this model is located around the shutter release button, which is sure to make it much more comfortable to use than the buttons on the back of the S2 and FS28.

This camera was actually announced at CES under its American name, the FH6. Note that the FH8, presented alongside, will sell as the FS45 in Europe but will only be available in selected countries.