Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ38 / FZ35

Panasonic's Lumix DMC-FZ38 / FZ35 is the 12.1 Megapixel super-zoom successor to the popular FZ28. It keeps the compact light-weight body, 18x optical zoom range, 2.7in screen and RAW recording of its predecessor, but boosts the resolution, offers the choice of encoding formats for its 720p movies along with stereo sound and manual exposures, improves both the AF and stabilisation, adds face recognition (where it can remember specific individuals), and throws in an HDMI port too. Once again these may represent a minor upgrade over its predecessor, but given the earlier FZ28 was one of the best super-zooms around, it places the new model in a very strong position. A superb choice, but compare closely with Canon’s SX20 IS which boasts a 20x zoom, flip-out screen and flash hotshoe.

Pros: 18x zoom, RAW recording, HD movie mode.
Cons: Fixed screen, no flash hotshoe.
Overall: One of the best super-zooms, but compare with SX20 IS.