Panasonic Lumix FT-5 (2014 Model)
Panasonic Lumix (2010 Model)
Owner: Thomas
Used since: 2009
Tested by: Thomas
Review by: Thomas
Primary Use: Anything outdoors - primarily Hiking, Canyoning, Abseiling
Review:
The FT5 is my second Panasonic Lumix waterproof camera. The previous model still works but after using it for good 5 years it was due for an upgrade. This camera can take a lot and it really tough. I have used it on more than 40 canyoning trips over the years during which I always have it strapped on the upper front strap of my backpack. Its done a lot of swimming, abseiling in waterfalls, jumps into rock pools, and so on. Never had any leakage or other problems with it. Battery life is good, it can do about 1 hour of video recording on a single battery in cold conditions - which is usually enough for a full day trip in the wild. I would typically bring a spare battery along anyway. I bought the new FT5 model primarily for some additional features and because I am really happy with the camera's performance - good quality pictures, HD video quality is great and its a really tough camera. Highly recommended.
Pros:
- Really tough, can take a lot in terms of usage in water and dirt
- Durable - have used mine in many rough conditions for over 5 years
- Good picture quality and even better video quality
Cons:
- New features such as GPS, etc. chew up a lot of battery since the function is on even when the battery is powered off
- Although 16MP might be handy for a few individuals - I think its useless for most situations. All it does is need lots of storage without much quality gain (and who really prints pictures on A3 anyway...?). I usually turn the resolution down to 5-7MP, which is perfectly fine for normal pictures.
Comment:
Best compact waterproof tough camera I know off - can only recommend it. From my own research it also seems to provide the best video quality in its class.
Manufacturer Website:
http://www.panasonic.com/au/consumer/imaging/lumix-cameras/dmc-ft5.html