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Panasonic TZ20 Review: Verdict
In the TZ20, it really seems as if Panasonic has pulled out all the stops. Serious upgrades to the Panasonic TZ10's feature set in the form of an expanded focal range, full HD video recording, touchscreen LCD and, yes, begrudgingly, a 3D mode, leapfrog Panasonic's travel zoom compact camera to the forefront of its competition.
And with the Panasonic TZ20 best price hovering just below the £300 mark on the UK high street, there's a lot of value for money to be had here.
Having the option for raw capture would be a very welcome addition, and some may be averse to the noise and smudging of details at higher sensitivities. But for all the capabilities and versatility the Panasonic TZ20 offers, it's quick AF, easy handling and overall strong image quality, it's hard to see why this latest Panasonic camera isn't the perfect travel camera.
We like
The Panasonic TZ20's focal range and Intelligent Zoom function make it a capable performer in nearly any situation. The touchscreen, while a bit redundant in capture, is brilliant in playback mode. Having more manual control was also a nice addition to the camera.
We dislike
Lack of raw capture. If you could shoot raw, the Panasonic TZ20 would be one of the top-tier compact cameras on the market.
Verdict
The Panasonic TZ20 fills every need for a compact camera to take on your travels. Its versatility, however, makes it a great all-rounder for everyday use, as well. Small, subtle and capable of producing sharp, punchy pictures, it's ideal for street photography or days out. But with the Panasonic TZ20 price at around £300, you could probably wait for other manufacturers to catch up with its feature set and grab it (or an equivalent) for a little bit less.
