10 Best Lumix Cameras 2025 in the United States

The Panasonic LUMIX ZS99 is a compact point-and-shoot camera designed for travelers and casual photographers who want a powerful zoom and good video capabilities in a pocket-sized body. It features a 1/2.3-inch MOS sensor with 20.3 effective megapixels, which is typical for compact cameras and delivers decent image quality but won’t match larger sensors found in more advanced cameras. The standout feature is its 24-720mm Leica lens offering a massive 30x optical zoom, letting you capture everything from wide landscapes to distant subjects with clarity. The camera includes 5-axis hybrid optical image stabilization, which helps keep images sharp even at full zoom or in shaky conditions, a big plus for travel use.

Video-wise, the ZS99 records sharp 4K footage at 30 frames per second and offers 4K photo burst mode for quick action shots. It also supports slow-motion video at 120 fps in HD. Autofocus is a hybrid system with 121 focus points, providing reliable and quick focusing in most situations. The 3-inch tiltable touchscreen with 1.84 million dots makes composing shots from various angles easy, and USB-C charging ensures convenience on the go.

Connectivity via Bluetooth 5.0 and Wi-Fi enables seamless image transfer to smartphones, enhanced by a dedicated Send Image button. The camera’s build is compact and travel-friendly, but it is not weather-sealed or water-resistant, so care is needed in harsh conditions. Battery life is average for its class, powered by a lithium-ion battery rechargeable through USB-C. While the smaller sensor size affects low-light performance compared to larger-sensor cameras and the absence of a built-in flash may be a drawback in certain lighting, it remains a versatile zoom camera with strong video features in a compact, easy-to-use package suitable for travelers and everyday users.

The Panasonic LUMIX S5IIX is a versatile full-frame mirrorless camera with a 24.2MP sensor that delivers sharp and detailed images, suitable for both photography and advanced video work. Its standout feature is the fast and reliable Phase Hybrid Autofocus system with 779 points, which smoothly tracks moving subjects even in tricky lighting, making it great for dynamic shooting. The included 20-60mm f/3.5-5.6 lens covers a useful wide-to-medium zoom range for everyday use, though the aperture is modest, meaning it may struggle in very low light compared to faster lenses.

Image stabilization is solid, using sensor-shift technology plus Panasonic's Active I.S., helping to reduce blur in handheld photos and smooth out video footage—especially useful for walking shots or casual filming. Video capabilities are impressive, with support for unlimited 10-bit 4:2:2 recording up to 5.8K ProRes internally, plus RAW output over HDMI and built-in IP streaming, catering well to serious videographers and live streamers. The camera's compact body includes a bright electronic viewfinder and a 3-inch articulating touchscreen, which is helpful for shooting at various angles.

Connectivity options like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB, and HDMI are all included, making transferring files and remote control convenient. Battery life is decent, but as with many mirrorless models, heavy video use may require extra batteries for long shoots. Build quality feels solid and ergonomic, although the camera weighs about 740 grams, so it’s not the lightest option for travel. While it lacks native night vision, the ISO range up to 204,800 helps in very dark scenes. The dual SD card slots support fast UHS Type cards, ensuring reliable storage during high-bitrate recording. This model suits professionals and advanced enthusiasts seeking a capable all-rounder with robust photo and video features, especially those interested in high-quality video production and streaming. Beginners might find some features overkill and the lens aperture limiting for low-light photography.

The Panasonic LUMIX S5II is a promising mirrorless camera that combines advanced features with user-friendly capabilities. With a 24.2-megapixel full-frame sensor, it delivers impressive image quality, making it suitable for both photography enthusiasts and professionals. The new Phase Hybrid Autofocus system is a standout feature, providing fast and accurate focusing even in challenging lighting conditions, which is great for capturing moving subjects.

One of the key strengths of the S5II is its powerful image stabilization technology. The Active I.S. significantly enhances video recording, allowing for smooth footage even when on the move. Additionally, the camera supports unlimited video recording due to its efficient heat management system, making it a strong contender for videographers looking for flexibility.

On the video front, the camera boasts impressive features like 14+ stops of V-Log/V-Gamut capture, which enables high dynamic range and color grading capabilities. This makes it ideal for filmmakers who need extensive post-production control. However, it does come with a few drawbacks. For beginners, the array of features and manual controls might be overwhelming. The camera is also relatively larger and heavier than some compact models, which might deter those seeking a lightweight option. Additionally, while the battery life is decent, it may not last through extended shooting sessions, necessitating a backup.