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Panasonic Lumix TZ99 Launches

The Panasonic Lumix TZ99 Launches in two variants amidst a resurgence in the popularity of compact cameras. With its impressive 30x Leica zoom lens, 20.3MP sensor, and upgraded connectivity, this new addition to the Panasonic Lumix compact range builds on a legacy of extremely popular point-and-shoots.

Join us as we take a closer look at the key features of the Lumix TZ99 and compare it to other models in the TZ series, and discover why it’s a strong contender for anyone in the market for a travel-friendly and enjoyable point-and-shoot camera.

When did the Panasonic Lumix TZ99 launch?

The Panasonic Lumix TZ99 compact camera launched Tuesday 17th December, just catching the very tail end of 2024. The compact all-in-one is available in two colour options, with the Panasonic Lumix TZ99 Compact Digital Camera Black and Panasonic Lumix TZ99 Compact Digital Camera Silver, which are both priced at £469.00.

These two options allow you to choose a design to match your own personal preferences, choosing between stealthy black and iconic silver finishes to suit your style.

Lumix TZ99 key features

The TZ99 is a well-rounded compact camera aimed at enthusiasts who want a lightweight travel-ready point and shoot, which is capable of capturing great quality stills and video. This generation adds several upgrades that bring it inline with contemporary cameras, and key features include:

• 20.3MP 1/2.3-inch Sensor
• 24-720mm equivalent LEICA DC Lens / 60x with iZoom
• 5-Axis Hybrid O.I.S.+
• Capture 4K PHOTO 30fps
• 4K Video 30p, HD High Speed Video 120fps
• 1,840k-dot tiltable monitor
• USB Type-C Battery Charging
• Easy sharing with Wi-Fi 2.4 GHz / Bluetooth v5.0
• Send Image Button (Smartphone)
• Weighs just 322g

Is the TZ99 good for video recording?

Yes, the TZ99 is a great camera for video, and introduces upgrades including Vertical Video Shooting and a REC Frame Indicator. It records 4K Video (3840x2160) 30p in MP4 for a maximum 15 minutes, as well as high-speed video for slow-mo playback at 1280x720 120fps, and 640x480 240fps.

What are the best features for photography?

As a hybrid stills and video compact, the TZ99 from Panasonic excels in both areas. For photography, it offers features such as burst shooting at 10 fps in AFS mode and 5 fps in AFC mode (continuous AF). Additionally, 4K PHOTO mode captures moments at 30 fps, while smart tools like Post Focus and Focus Stacking enhance your creative options.

Whether you're on holiday, exploring local towns and cities, or capturing candid shots of family and friends, the Lumix TZ99 provides reliable performance with consistently great results.

Autofocus (AF) capabilities

Panasonic employs its unique Depth from Defocus (DFD) autofocus system in cameras like the TZ99. Developed over the past decade, DFD analyses two out-of-focus areas to determine the correct focus point.

While it may not be the fastest AF system to date, DFD performs well with certain subjects and includes Human Face/Eye Detection for improved accuracy. The camera also offers numerous focus assist features for confirmation, including Touch AF/AE, MF Assist, AF+MF, Focus Peaking, One Shot AF, and Low Light AF.

Versatile 30x Leica Zoom Lens

The Panasonic Lumix TZ99 benefits from a versatile 30x Leica DC VARIO-ELMAR 24-720mm (35mm equivalent) f/3.3-6.4 zoom lens, which has been carried over from the previous generation. Known for its optical quality, this tiny zoom lens delivers beautiful results across a wide range of situations, making it ideal for capturing diverse subjects with a single zoom lens.

From landscapes, sunrises, and sunsets to street photography, candid portraits, holiday snaps, and everyday moments with friends and family, the Leica lens ensures consistently beautiful performance. It also features POWER O.I.S. for stabilised stills and 5-Axis HYBRID O.I.S.+ for video, helping you to achieve sharper results even when zoomed in to the maximum range.

Ergonomics and usability

In addition to its new imaging features, the compact TZ99 body includes several updates for enhanced usability. These include a 3.0-inch 1,840k-dot tiltable touchscreen LCD monitor, which is perfect for selfies, and the addition of a Send Image (Smartphone) button, providing instant access to file transfers.

Panasonic has also introduced USB-C connectivity for convenient battery charging on the go, while Bluetooth has been upgraded to V5.0, ensuring more stable and efficient connectivity. These improvements create a streamlined shooting experience that is significantly superior to using a smartphone and aligns with modern user expectations.

How does the TZ99 Compare to other models?

The table below highlights some of the key differences between the TZ99 and TZ95 cameras.

This table shows the key differences between the most recent Lumix range of compact cameras and how they compare.

The Panasonic Lumix TZ99 compact camera provides a compelling combination of pocket-sized portability, versatility, and advanced features for enthusiasts who are drawn to compact cameras. With its powerful 30x Leica zoom lens, 20.3MP sensor, and 4K video capabilities, it caters to a wide range of needs, from travel photography to everyday family snapshots.

New additions like USB-C charging, Bluetooth V5.0, and a Send Image button enhance its usability while adding modern conveniences. Whether you're documenting a holiday, capturing family moments, or exploring local scenery, the TZ99 is a great companion for creating beautiful stills and videos, while offering a superior alternative to smartphones.

Choose between the Lumix TZ99 Compact Camera Black and Lumix TZ99 Compact Camera Silver and discover how fun it can be heading out with a point-and-shoot on your next adventure.

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By Nick Dautlich on 17/12/2024