Panasonic has officially announced the latest updates to two of its more affordable camera lines, the LUMIX G97 and LUMIX ZS99, designed to cater to both photo enthusiasts and videographers. These two models bring significant updates to existing designs, with a focus on enhancing usability, image quality, and feature sets.
Panasonic Lumix G97 with 12-60mm f/3.5-5.6 Lens: $847.99 at B&H, Adorama.
Panasonic Lumix ZS99 Camera: $497.99 at B&H, Adorama.
Panasonic Lumix DC-G97
The Lumix G97 is a refined update to its predecessor, the G90/G91/G95D, retaining the same 20MP Micro Four Thirds sensor and offering several key improvements. Notably, the G97 boasts a higher-resolution rear screen, providing better visibility and clarity for users. Another major update is the inclusion of a USB-C connector, although it only supports USB 2.0 speeds and can be used for charging but not for power while in use. Along with this, the G97 upgrades its Bluetooth capability to v5.0, ensuring more efficient wireless communication.
A dedicated button for smartphone image transfers has been added, along with a new red frame around the screen when recording video. Additionally, the G97 now allows for tagging video shot in portrait orientation, further enhancing its video usability. While these updates offer improved functionality, the G97 remains largely the same as the G90/G91 series in terms of overall design and performance. The camera will be available in mid-to-late February 2025 at a recommended price of $849 for a kit with the 12-60mm F3.5-5.6 Power OIS lens, marking a $350 reduction from the G95’s initial price.
Panasonic Lumix DC-ZS99 (TZ99)
The Lumix ZS99 (known as the TZ99 in Europe) sees more significant changes, making it an appealing choice for travelers and casual photographers looking for portability and powerful zoom capabilities. This 30x zoom compact retains the 20MP Type 1/2.3-inch sensor and the versatile 24-720mm equivalent lens, making it ideal for a wide range of shooting scenarios. The ZS99 also benefits from the addition of a USB-C port, similar to the G97, but the more notable update is the removal of the electronic viewfinder (EVF). Panasonic has opted to cater to a broader audience, many of whom may not find an EVF essential for their shooting style.
Along with the USB-C port, the ZS99 includes several other features from the G97, including a higher-resolution display and improved connectivity options. However, it does lose a couple of features from its predecessor, such as the Panorama and Beauty Retouch modes, which might be missed by some users. The ZS99 will be available from early-to-mid February 2025, priced at $499—a $50 increase over the previous ZS80D/TZ95D.
Both the Panasonic Lumix G97 and ZS99 offer compelling updates, making them strong contenders in their respective categories. The G97 is a more modest update with subtle improvements in video and connectivity, while the ZS99 introduces a significant change by removing the EVF to cater to a wider audience. Regardless of which model appeals more to your needs, both promise excellent performance at competitive price points, solidifying Panasonic’s commitment to providing great value in the mirrorless and compact camera markets.
Press release:
Panasonic Announces Two New Cameras:
Compact Micro Four Thirds LUMIX G97 and Pocket-Sized Travel Zoom LUMIX ZS99
Newark, N.J. (December 16, 2024) – Panasonic is pleased to introduce two new cameras to its LUMIX lineup: the Micro Four Thirds G97 and Travel Zoom ZS99.
The new LUMIX G97 and ZS99 offer a wide range of updated photo and video features to bring excellent image quality and usability to enthusiasts, photographers, and videographers alike.
LUMIX continues to develop its lineup to satisfy the needs of a wide range of creators and continually deliver value, innovation, and reliability to its customers.
LUMIX ZS99: New Pocket-sized Travel 30x Zoom Camera
Compact and feature-packed, the LUMIX ZS99 travel zoom camera is perfect for capturing life’s adventures.
Powerful 30x zoom in a pocket-sized body
Equipped with a 24-720mm LEICA DC lens*1, the LUMIX ZS99 offers 30x optical zoom and up to 60x with iZoom so that you can capture everything from sweeping landscapes to intricate details with stunning clarity.
With in-built 5-Axis HYBRID O.I.S.+, you can enjoy high-quality videos even at full zoom.
Unmissable Moments in 4K
Record high-quality 4K video at 30p or capture quick bursts of 4K PHOTO at 30fps to ensure you never miss a moment. Additionally, its ability to capture HD high-speed video at 120fps adds creative flexibility for slow-motion shots.
Packed with travel-ready features
A tiltable 1,840k-dot touchscreen makes creative angles easy, while USB Type-C charging ensures you’re always powered up on the go.
Easy image sharing
Connect instantly with built-in Bluetooth® v5.0*2 and Wi-Fi, plus a dedicated Send Image button for seamless transfers to your smartphone.
Price and availability
The new LUMIX ZS99 will be available in black (DC-ZS99E-K) and silver (DC-ZS99E-S) in mid-February 2025 for $499.99 at valued channel partners.
*1 35mm camera equivalent.
*2 The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc., and any use of such marks by Panasonic Corporation is under license. Other trademarks and trade names are those of their respective owners.
LUMIX G97: New Compact Hybrid Micro Four Thirds Camera
The new LUMIX G97 camera balances high performance and simplicity, giving creators the tools to elevate their photography and video skills.
Superb picture quality
The 20.3MP CMOS sensor, combined with the high-performance Image processor, delivers superb image quality with vibrant colors and sharp details.
Equipped with LUMIX Photo Style feature, users can fine-tune their images with a variety of color effect options, ensuring every shot matches your creative vision.
The Live View Composite feature is also included, providing the ability to combines multiple exposures in real time to create stunning light trails, star trails, or illuminated scenes without overexposing the background.
Smooth performance
The LUMIX G97’s 5-stop 5-axis Dual I.S.2*1 system ensures unrivalled stability, so your photos and videos remain sharp even in challenging conditions.
With 4K PHOTO capabilities, you can capture bursts of high-resolution photos at 30fps, ensuring you never miss a fleeting moment. The perfect shot from burst footage makes this feature ideal for fast-moving subjects or spontaneous scenes.
Versatile video features
Record in crisp 4K at 30p with no time limitations*2, experiment with slow-motion (max.4x) or quick-motion (max.8x) in FHD, and create cinematic content with 12-stops of V-Log L. Dedicated headphone and microphone jacks ensure total audio control while recording.
Intuitive operation and reliable design
With a 1,840k-dot free-angle LCD and 2,360k-dot OLED Live View Finder*3, the LUMIX G97 makes it easy to frame and focus your shots accurately, even in bright conditions.
The durable dust/splash-resistant*4 construction is ideal for everyday creators looking for a camera that can reliably handle a variety of situations.
Built-in Bluetooth® v5.0 and Wi-Fi make sharing and remote control effortless, while USB Type-C charging adds convenience.
Price and availability
The new LUMIX G97 will be available in late February 2025 for $849.99 for a 12-60mm lens kit (DC-G97MK) at valued channel partners.
*1 Based on the CIPA standard [Yaw/Pitch direction: focusing distance f=140mm (35mm camera equivalent f=280mm), when H-FSA14140 is used.]*2 When the ambient temperature is high, the camera may stop the recording. Wait until the camera cools down.
*3 35mm camera equivalent
*4 Dust and Splash Resistant does not guarantee that damage will not occur if this camera is subjected to direct contact with dust and water
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