Panasonic Lumix TZ8

Panasonic's TZ cameras have been evolving in pairs for a while now, with a heavyweight model twinned with a corresponding lightweight version, usually with a smaller screen. Last year though, the difference between models became even more marked, as the TZ7 was a top-notch hybrid compact for both photos and videos, while the TZ6 was a more classic kind of compact. For 2010, Panasonic has updated the range with the high-end TZ10 paired with the Lumix TZ8, a more basic camera with a more affordable price tag.

Handling

For this section, please refer to our test of the TZ10. The TZ8 is identical in design and handling to the TZ10, except for the few differences I'll outline below.

•  The screen only has 230,000 pixels, and you'll be able to see the pixel grid lines if you look closely. However, viewing angles are good.
• The video record button has been replaced by an E.Zoom button, for switching the lens instantly between wide angle and the maximum zoom (and vice versa). Those less interested in shooting videos could find this new function more useful than the video record button.

• There's no GPS, which is no big deal given that the TZ10 GPS takes ages to find its location and guzzles battery life.

Responsiveness

Focusing is just as good as with the TZ10, taking around one second no matter what the surrounding conditions. However, the TZ8 takes a whole second longer to save a photo at 3.4 seconds! You could really start to notice this when using the camera too, as it slows things down considerably, especially when you're trying to take back-to-back shots. Apart from video capabilities, if you're looking for a reason to pick the TZ10 over the TZ8 then I reckon this could be it.

Picture quality

The lens and sensor are identical to those of the TZ10. The only difference is the image processing chip, which is a Venus Engine VI in the TZ8 rather than the HD II used in the TZ10. As the name suggests, the Venus Engine HD II is mainly used for video processing, and photos taken by the TZ8 and the TZ10 are virtually identical. Read our test of the TZ10 to find out more.


The TZ8 is very good at low sensitivities but less good from 400 ISO upwards, with highly visible smoothing, intended to keep digital noise under control.

We did notice one difference in picture quality though, as the TZ8 didn't handle shots of Barbie taken with the flash quite so well as the TZ10, as the pictures are slightly overexposed. However, our tests are carried out under extreme conditions and we didn't notice any real problems in real-life conditions.

Video

The TZ8 films in 720p HD and the zoom is fully operational. However, footage isn't recorded in the AVCHD format as in the TZ10, but as an Mjpeg in the Quicktime container. Plus, the sound is recorded in mono. Anyone looking to record videos with their camera on a regular basis would be better off with the TZ10, even if only for the separate video record button.