ProductCritic: Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX2 Reviews

Photoxels (90)

To summarize, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX2 is, in my opinion, among the best of the compact models. It has many nice features that are well implemented and practically useful. The camera is responsive with robust performance and a very effective optical image stabilization. It supports RAW file format and has full manual exposure, so the advanced photographer should be able to make the most of this little gem.

Megapixel.net (90)

The value of the 16:9 aspect ratio becomes obvious quickly. The format is nearly cinematographic, and opens up a world of possibilities when framing a shot. With it, the camera is able to record a view that is much closer to what we experience than other aspect ratios. 16:9 images convey a sense of space, and are able to capture a view that is closer to our perception.

Popular Photography & Imaging (88)

In all, the Lumix DMC-LX2 is the kind of upgrade we like. It overcomes most of the weaknesses of the LX1, except for the limited flash range. And with its improved low-light noise reduction and image stabilization, you might not even care about the flash. What you’re sure to care about: this camera’s excellent image quality, delightful LCD, super Leica lens, and $500 street price.

Imaging Resource (87)

If this camera has any faults, it would be only that I wish image quality were slightly better. Yes, I know I said the camera produced very good images, but on the next version I’d like to see Panasonic tone down the color saturation a bit while improving the camera’s dynamic range. Noise is also still a problem at all ISO settings, especially at ISO 800 and 1,600, but it’s much better overall than on the LX1 thanks to the LSI Venus Engine III.

Digital Camera Review (85)

In the final analysis the only thing that really matters (when considering a camera purchase) is image quality and in that department the LX2 delivers, consistently and dependably. Potential purchasers who shoot lots of panoramas and don’t mind slaving over a hot computer (and heavily utilizing Adobe PhotoShop and the post-exposure noise reduction software of their choice) will love the LX2.

Digital Camera Resource Page (82)

If you’re shooting at ISO 100 and not making huge prints then I recommend the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX2. If you’ve got the patience to shoot in RAW mode, you’ll likely be more satisfied with the photos you get out of the camera. If you want to run around shooting at ISO 800 or making 11×14 inch prints, I’d probably pass on this camera.

Digital Photography Review (81)

And so, in conclusion, we have what is becoming something of a theme with Panasonic’s high end models; a superb, innovative, unique and well-designed camera with an (apparently) noisy sensor and – much more importantly – a processing engine that replaces fine detail with smeary, watercolor-like artefacts.

BusinessWeek.com (80)

Physically, this camera tends toward bulky in an era when digital cameras are getting sleeker, smaller and lighter all the time. And its large Leica lens adds visual heft, making it appear heavier than it actually is. In contrast, cameras like the Nikon Coolpix S9 are embedding smaller lenses inside the camera body.

PhotographyREVIEW.com (80)

For the most part I enjoyed using the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX2. The controls are excellent and allowed me to quickly and easily access the features and settings I needed to get good photos. I especially like the joystick on the back for exposure adjustments. And Panasonic’s MEGA O.I.S. image stabilization is invaluable in helping capture better quality images in all types of conditions.

Digital Camera Magazine (80)

Megapixels make great headlines, but the LX2 suffers from noise and smudging even at low ISOs. That’s a shame, because otherwise this is a great camera. With a better-balanced sensor (fewer pixels, better quality) and a more operational speed, it would be hard to fault.

PhotographyBLOG (80)

The persistent noise issue unfortunately therefore makes the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX2 a premium-priced product that doesn’t produce premium results. Without all that noise, the DMC-LX2 would be an expensive but still unique and worthwhile purchase. As things stand, I would wait for the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX3 and hope that Panasonic cures the achilles heel of the DMC-LX2.

DigitalCameraInfo.com (78)

The optically stabilized Panasonic LX2 certainly has a lot to offer consumers; unfortunately, its $499 price tag marks it as a niche camera, intended for those with a much more expensive plasma display hanging from their living room wall. For those who can easily afford the $500 price tag however, the camera will likely live up to expectations.

PC World (75)

This camera’s ability to capture images in wide-screen format is unique and useful, but the DMC-LX2 is a tad bulky for a point-and-shoot.

CNET (74)

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX2 is a good choice for an enthusiast looking for a powerful camera that can fit into a jacket pocket.

The Star Online (74)

Unfortunately, considering that it will probably appeal more to serious hobbyists, the fact that it has such heavy-handed noise reduction is pretty worrying. I would have preferred it more if Panasonic had kept the megapixel count of the LX1 and worked on the noise reduction in a much more elegant and unobtrusive way instead

Steve's Digicams (70)

I have mixed feelings about this new Lumix model. While offering some awesome features, and a wealth of exposure controls, the higher noise and poor movie mode quality is disappointing. And, with an MSRP of US$499.95, it’s also a bit overpriced. Especially when you consider some of the alternative 10-megapixel models, like Canon’s PowerShot A640 which can be had for about $100 less.

Cameralabs (70)

As it is the LX2 is a hobbled product which will only deliver good results if forced into using low ISOs. If you can live with that, the plus points make it worth considering. If you find the quality at higher sensitivities unacceptable, look elsewhere. Ultimately the digital camera industry really has to address its obsession with increasing resolutions for marketing purposes at the cost of overall quality. It’s compromising otherwise excellent products like the LX2 and does no-one any favours.

PC Authority (67)

You’re left with a striking-looking camera with decent image quality. But its main selling point — the widescreen sensor — is more of a potentially interesting gimmick than a must-have. And, with the Canon Ixus 60 weighing in at over $250 less, it’s difficult to recommend the Lumix in spite of some redeeming features.

PC Mag (60)

This 10MP enthusiast camera has some great qualities, but it’s plagued by performance issues.

NeoCamera.com (50)

The Panasonic Lumix LX2 is rather disappointing, perhaps partly because of the success of its predecessor, but mostly because of all that is special about this camera. The LX2 features a wide-aspect sensor for producing 16:9 images and 16:9 HD videos. Its lens, when combined with its wide-aspect sensor, features a 4X wide-angle zoom. In 4:3 and 3:2 mode, the zoom is not wide-angle anymore though. The downfall of this camera comes from its high image noise.