Comparing used ZS200 versus Sony RX100VI

I have decided to return the used Sony RX100VI and keep the Panasonic ZS200.

My reasons are as follows:

Just based on my two samples I think the Panny is just as good if not better. Even if they were equal in iq, the Panny wins for the following:

1. Cheaper by $200

2. Longer optical zoom

3. Easier to hold due to slightly larger size and the rubber grip (Sony is tiny and has slick front with very little space for grip, and I have fat fingers.

4. real rear touch screen (sony's is very limited)

Sony wins for the following:

1. faster lens (if you do a lot of low light shooting or need more bokeh)

2. tilting rear screen

3. Sharper evf (but, for quick shots the necessary action of popping up evf every time is an issue).

Both good cameras but for my needs, budget, and especially handling ( the Sony is too small and slick, I would definitely drop).

Will post pics here going forward (even is they are embarrassing as one poster commented, it must be nice to be so talented).
Thank you Michael for the follow-up on your choice. I was close to purchasing a used RX-100 V recently. The discussion here caused me to look a little closer - and I too am thinking an FZ200 would be better suited for me.

I'd surely drop the Sony big as life. I want the longer optical zoom. I've never used a touch screen, something nice to learn. My positive experience so far with a used FZ1000 has introduced me to the quality of Panasonic Lumix in general.

Thanks again. I'm not in a hurry to get the FZ200 - when I saw the RX-100 just had a case of GAS creep up on me. I'm past it now again thanks to your post.

Look forward to seeing your images.

Ev
Hi Ev,

You are talking here about the FZ200, a mini dslr format camera with a pinhead sensor. Your experience appears to be with an FZ1000, a very large DSLR style bit of kit which has the same size sensor as the TZ200 & Sony RX100M6 .This thread discusses the TZ200 & RX100M6, both "pocketable compacts" with 1" sensors. They are vastly different both in format size to an FZ200 and in physical size to the FZ1000, which does have a similar sensor. Not the same in any way. Panasonic range names can be confusing so please do some research and come back here where we will be happy to help you!

Dave
Thank you Dave, but I clearly understand the difference between these two cameras, i.e pocket-size compact, vs larger superzoom FZ1000. Small sensor vs 1" sensor. I'm sure no expert but I know the difference between the cameras discussed. Maybe I didn't write clearly, apologize if I didn't.

I was referencing that to me I found the FZ1000 to be a very good quality camera, meaning build quality and just a darn nice camera. It would lead me to think the quality of the FZ200 would be equally as nice. Thus, it would be worthwhile for me to look at an FZ200 as an option for a compact camera as opposed to the pricier Sony RX-100 (any model). I was just making a comment as opposed to asking for help related to my interest in possibly purchasing a pocket/compact camera. But thanks anyway.

Ev

PS - reread my post seems to be written fine.

--
https://evsphotos.smugmug.com/
 
Last edited:
I have decided to return the used Sony RX100VI and keep the Panasonic ZS200.

My reasons are as follows:

Just based on my two samples I think the Panny is just as good if not better. Even if they were equal in iq, the Panny wins for the following:

1. Cheaper by $200

2. Longer optical zoom

3. Easier to hold due to slightly larger size and the rubber grip (Sony is tiny and has slick front with very little space for grip, and I have fat fingers.

4. real rear touch screen (sony's is very limited)

Sony wins for the following:

1. faster lens (if you do a lot of low light shooting or need more bokeh)

2. tilting rear screen

3. Sharper evf (but, for quick shots the necessary action of popping up evf every time is an issue).

Both good cameras but for my needs, budget, and especially handling ( the Sony is too small and slick, I would definitely drop).

Will post pics here going forward (even is they are embarrassing as one poster commented, it must be nice to be so talented).
Thank you Michael for the follow-up on your choice. I was close to purchasing a used RX-100 V recently. The discussion here caused me to look a little closer - and I too am thinking an FZ200 would be better suited for me.

I'd surely drop the Sony big as life. I want the longer optical zoom. I've never used a touch screen, something nice to learn. My positive experience so far with a used FZ1000 has introduced me to the quality of Panasonic Lumix in general.

Thanks again. I'm not in a hurry to get the FZ200 - when I saw the RX-100 just had a case of GAS creep up on me. I'm past it now again thanks to your post.

Look forward to seeing your images.

Ev
Hi Ev,

You are talking here about the FZ200, a mini dslr format camera with a pinhead sensor. Your experience appears to be with an FZ1000, a very large DSLR style bit of kit which has the same size sensor as the TZ200 & Sony RX100M6 .This thread discusses the TZ200 & RX100M6, both "pocketable compacts" with 1" sensors. They are vastly different both in format size to an FZ200 and in physical size to the FZ1000, which does have a similar sensor. Not the same in any way. Panasonic range names can be confusing so please do some research and come back here where we will be happy to help you!

Dave
Thank you Dave, but I clearly understand the difference between these two cameras, i.e pocket-size compact, vs larger superzoom FZ1000. Small sensor vs 1" sensor. I'm sure no expert but I know the difference between the cameras discussed. Maybe I didn't write clearly, apologize if I didn't.

I was referencing that to me I found the FZ1000 to be a very good quality camera, meaning build quality and just a darn nice camera. It would lead me to think the quality of the FZ200 would be equally as nice. Thus, it would be worthwhile for me to look at an FZ200 as an option for a compact camera as opposed to the pricier Sony RX-100 (any model). I was just making a comment as opposed to asking for help related to my interest in possibly purchasing a pocket/compact camera. But thanks anyway.

Ev

PS - reread my post seems to be written fine.
Ev you keep referring to an FZ200 which you are describing above as equally as nice. This thread is about a TZ200 which is a totally different camera! Different format and different sensor!

Unless we are on the same page any discussion is irrelevant!

Dave
 
Last edited:
I have decided to return the used Sony RX100VI and keep the Panasonic ZS200.

My reasons are as follows:

Just based on my two samples I think the Panny is just as good if not better. Even if they were equal in iq, the Panny wins for the following:

1. Cheaper by $200

2. Longer optical zoom

3. Easier to hold due to slightly larger size and the rubber grip (Sony is tiny and has slick front with very little space for grip, and I have fat fingers.

4. real rear touch screen (sony's is very limited)

Sony wins for the following:

1. faster lens (if you do a lot of low light shooting or need more bokeh)

2. tilting rear screen

3. Sharper evf (but, for quick shots the necessary action of popping up evf every time is an issue).

Both good cameras but for my needs, budget, and especially handling ( the Sony is too small and slick, I would definitely drop).

Will post pics here going forward (even is they are embarrassing as one poster commented, it must be nice to be so talented).
Thank you Michael for the follow-up on your choice. I was close to purchasing a used RX-100 V recently. The discussion here caused me to look a little closer - and I too am thinking an FZ200 would be better suited for me.

I'd surely drop the Sony big as life. I want the longer optical zoom. I've never used a touch screen, something nice to learn. My positive experience so far with a used FZ1000 has introduced me to the quality of Panasonic Lumix in general.

Thanks again. I'm not in a hurry to get the FZ200 - when I saw the RX-100 just had a case of GAS creep up on me. I'm past it now again thanks to your post.

Look forward to seeing your images.

Ev
Hi Ev,

You are talking here about the FZ200, a mini dslr format camera with a pinhead sensor. Your experience appears to be with an FZ1000, a very large DSLR style bit of kit which has the same size sensor as the TZ200 & Sony RX100M6 .This thread discusses the TZ200 & RX100M6, both "pocketable compacts" with 1" sensors. They are vastly different both in format size to an FZ200 and in physical size to the FZ1000, which does have a similar sensor. Not the same in any way. Panasonic range names can be confusing so please do some research and come back here where we will be happy to help you!

Dave
Thank you Dave, but I clearly understand the difference between these two cameras, i.e pocket-size compact, vs larger superzoom FZ1000. Small sensor vs 1" sensor. I'm sure no expert but I know the difference between the cameras discussed. Maybe I didn't write clearly, apologize if I didn't.

I was referencing that to me I found the FZ1000 to be a very good quality camera, meaning build quality and just a darn nice camera. It would lead me to think the quality of the FZ200 would be equally as nice. Thus, it would be worthwhile for me to look at an FZ200 as an option for a compact camera as opposed to the pricier Sony RX-100 (any model). I was just making a comment as opposed to asking for help related to my interest in possibly purchasing a pocket/compact camera. But thanks anyway.

Ev

PS - reread my post seems to be written fine.
Ev you keep referring to an FZ200 which you are describing above as equally as nice. This thread is about a TZ200 which is a totally different camera! Different format and different sensor!

Unless we are on the same page any discussion is irrelevant!
FZ

TZ

It's about the FZ & TZ!

F & T


Not the same models; Totally different. Do you comprehend it yet?
 
I have decided to return the used Sony RX100VI and keep the Panasonic ZS200.

My reasons are as follows:

Just based on my two samples I think the Panny is just as good if not better. Even if they were equal in iq, the Panny wins for the following:

1. Cheaper by $200

2. Longer optical zoom

3. Easier to hold due to slightly larger size and the rubber grip (Sony is tiny and has slick front with very little space for grip, and I have fat fingers.

4. real rear touch screen (sony's is very limited)

Sony wins for the following:

1. faster lens (if you do a lot of low light shooting or need more bokeh)

2. tilting rear screen

3. Sharper evf (but, for quick shots the necessary action of popping up evf every time is an issue).

Both good cameras but for my needs, budget, and especially handling ( the Sony is too small and slick, I would definitely drop).

Will post pics here going forward (even is they are embarrassing as one poster commented, it must be nice to be so talented).
Thank you Michael for the follow-up on your choice. I was close to purchasing a used RX-100 V recently. The discussion here caused me to look a little closer - and I too am thinking an FZ200 would be better suited for me.

I'd surely drop the Sony big as life. I want the longer optical zoom. I've never used a touch screen, something nice to learn. My positive experience so far with a used FZ1000 has introduced me to the quality of Panasonic Lumix in general.

Thanks again. I'm not in a hurry to get the FZ200 - when I saw the RX-100 just had a case of GAS creep up on me. I'm past it now again thanks to your post.

Look forward to seeing your images.

Ev
Hi Ev,

You are talking here about the FZ200, a mini dslr format camera with a pinhead sensor. Your experience appears to be with an FZ1000, a very large DSLR style bit of kit which has the same size sensor as the TZ200 & Sony RX100M6 .This thread discusses the TZ200 & RX100M6, both "pocketable compacts" with 1" sensors. They are vastly different both in format size to an FZ200 and in physical size to the FZ1000, which does have a similar sensor. Not the same in any way. Panasonic range names can be confusing so please do some research and come back here where we will be happy to help you!

Dave
Thank you Dave, but I clearly understand the difference between these two cameras, i.e pocket-size compact, vs larger superzoom FZ1000. Small sensor vs 1" sensor. I'm sure no expert but I know the difference between the cameras discussed. Maybe I didn't write clearly, apologize if I didn't.

I was referencing that to me I found the FZ1000 to be a very good quality camera, meaning build quality and just a darn nice camera. It would lead me to think the quality of the FZ200 would be equally as nice. Thus, it would be worthwhile for me to look at an FZ200 as an option for a compact camera as opposed to the pricier Sony RX-100 (any model). I was just making a comment as opposed to asking for help related to my interest in possibly purchasing a pocket/compact camera. But thanks anyway.

Ev

PS - reread my post seems to be written fine.
Ev you keep referring to an FZ200 which you are describing above as equally as nice. This thread is about a TZ200 which is a totally different camera! Different format and different sensor!

Unless we are on the same page any discussion is irrelevant!

Dave
Don't get worked up - its not the end of the earth here. You're right I was saying FZ 200 and I meant ZS200, i.e., the Panasonic ZS200 (known as the TZ200 outside of North America) I knew what I was meaning, I just wrote it incorrectly. Yep, it was a mistake. I make them occasionally. I don't mind being corrected - but goodness....

Ev

--
https://evsphotos.smugmug.com/
 
Last edited:
I posted awhile back comparing the ZS100 and RX100M6 in a rather detailed way. Almost everything I wrote applies equally to the ZS200. See these 2 posts in particular which compare features, ergonomics, usability, etc.

Panasonic ZS100 vs. Sony RX100M6

https://www.dpreview.com/forums/post/63716626

Setting exposure compensation

https://www.dpreview.com/forums/post/64461856
In 2018 I bought an RX100m1.5 (RX100 with the new 2.0 firmware), but then the control wheel stopped working. I have owned 3 Sony cameras (A700, A100, RX100) and all 3 in a short time developed control wheel problems. I have owned many cameras from Canon, Olympus, Panasonic, Pentax, etc. and none of them had problems. All 3 of my Sony cameras are paperweights though. Here is my RX100 review -- before the control wheel died:

https://www.dpreview.com/forums/post/64461755

And an update after the control wheel problem:

https://www.dpreview.com/forums/post/64529737

This is just my experience and, obviously, many other people have had good luck, I suppose, with their Sony cameras. The A700, A900, etc. were notorious for control wheel problems with many reports. I haven't kept up to date in the last few years to know about other models. This guy says many of his Sony cameras also have control wheel problems:

 
I have decided to return the used Sony RX100VI and keep the Panasonic ZS200.

My reasons are as follows:

Just based on my two samples I think the Panny is just as good if not better. Even if they were equal in iq, the Panny wins for the following:

1. Cheaper by $200

2. Longer optical zoom

3. Easier to hold due to slightly larger size and the rubber grip (Sony is tiny and has slick front with very little space for grip, and I have fat fingers.

4. real rear touch screen (sony's is very limited)

Sony wins for the following:

1. faster lens (if you do a lot of low light shooting or need more bokeh)

2. tilting rear screen

3. Sharper evf (but, for quick shots the necessary action of popping up evf every time is an issue).

Both good cameras but for my needs, budget, and especially handling ( the Sony is too small and slick, I would definitely drop).

Will post pics here going forward (even is they are embarrassing as one poster commented, it must be nice to be so talented).
Thank you Michael for the follow-up on your choice. I was close to purchasing a used RX-100 V recently. The discussion here caused me to look a little closer - and I too am thinking an FZ200 would be better suited for me.

I'd surely drop the Sony big as life. I want the longer optical zoom. I've never used a touch screen, something nice to learn. My positive experience so far with a used FZ1000 has introduced me to the quality of Panasonic Lumix in general.

Thanks again. I'm not in a hurry to get the FZ200 - when I saw the RX-100 just had a case of GAS creep up on me. I'm past it now again thanks to your post.

Look forward to seeing your images.

Ev
Hi Ev,

You are talking here about the FZ200, a mini dslr format camera with a pinhead sensor. Your experience appears to be with an FZ1000, a very large DSLR style bit of kit which has the same size sensor as the TZ200 & Sony RX100M6 .This thread discusses the TZ200 & RX100M6, both "pocketable compacts" with 1" sensors. They are vastly different both in format size to an FZ200 and in physical size to the FZ1000, which does have a similar sensor. Not the same in any way. Panasonic range names can be confusing so please do some research and come back here where we will be happy to help you!

Dave
Thank you Dave, but I clearly understand the difference between these two cameras, i.e pocket-size compact, vs larger superzoom FZ1000. Small sensor vs 1" sensor. I'm sure no expert but I know the difference between the cameras discussed. Maybe I didn't write clearly, apologize if I didn't.

I was referencing that to me I found the FZ1000 to be a very good quality camera, meaning build quality and just a darn nice camera. It would lead me to think the quality of the FZ200 would be equally as nice. Thus, it would be worthwhile for me to look at an FZ200 as an option for a compact camera as opposed to the pricier Sony RX-100 (any model). I was just making a comment as opposed to asking for help related to my interest in possibly purchasing a pocket/compact camera. But thanks anyway.

Ev

PS - reread my post seems to be written fine.
Ev you keep referring to an FZ200 which you are describing above as equally as nice. This thread is about a TZ200 which is a totally different camera! Different format and different sensor!

Unless we are on the same page any discussion is irrelevant!

Dave
Don't get worked up - its not the end of the earth here. You're right I was saying FZ 200 and I meant ZS200, i.e., the Panasonic ZS200 (known as the TZ200 outside of North America) I knew what I was meaning, I just wrote it incorrectly. Yep, it was a mistake. I make them occasionally. I don't mind being corrected - but goodness....

Ev
I can assure you I'm not at all worked up but until you acknowledge that you've cocked up then other people reading your posts can only assume that you are confused by the terminology and thus will keep telling you until you fess up. Generally speaking the participants on this forum tend not to be psychic..........................
 
I have decided to return the used Sony RX100VI and keep the Panasonic ZS200.

My reasons are as follows:

Just based on my two samples I think the Panny is just as good if not better. Even if they were equal in iq, the Panny wins for the following:

1. Cheaper by $200

2. Longer optical zoom

3. Easier to hold due to slightly larger size and the rubber grip (Sony is tiny and has slick front with very little space for grip, and I have fat fingers.

4. real rear touch screen (sony's is very limited)

Sony wins for the following:

1. faster lens (if you do a lot of low light shooting or need more bokeh)

2. tilting rear screen

3. Sharper evf (but, for quick shots the necessary action of popping up evf every time is an issue).

Both good cameras but for my needs, budget, and especially handling ( the Sony is too small and slick, I would definitely drop).

Will post pics here going forward (even is they are embarrassing as one poster commented, it must be nice to be so talented).
Thank you Michael for the follow-up on your choice. I was close to purchasing a used RX-100 V recently. The discussion here caused me to look a little closer - and I too am thinking an FZ200 would be better suited for me.

I'd surely drop the Sony big as life. I want the longer optical zoom. I've never used a touch screen, something nice to learn. My positive experience so far with a used FZ1000 has introduced me to the quality of Panasonic Lumix in general.

Thanks again. I'm not in a hurry to get the FZ200 - when I saw the RX-100 just had a case of GAS creep up on me. I'm past it now again thanks to your post.

Look forward to seeing your images.

Ev
Hi Ev,

You are talking here about the FZ200, a mini dslr format camera with a pinhead sensor. Your experience appears to be with an FZ1000, a very large DSLR style bit of kit which has the same size sensor as the TZ200 & Sony RX100M6 .This thread discusses the TZ200 & RX100M6, both "pocketable compacts" with 1" sensors. They are vastly different both in format size to an FZ200 and in physical size to the FZ1000, which does have a similar sensor. Not the same in any way. Panasonic range names can be confusing so please do some research and come back here where we will be happy to help you!

Dave
Thank you Dave, but I clearly understand the difference between these two cameras, i.e pocket-size compact, vs larger superzoom FZ1000. Small sensor vs 1" sensor. I'm sure no expert but I know the difference between the cameras discussed. Maybe I didn't write clearly, apologize if I didn't.

I was referencing that to me I found the FZ1000 to be a very good quality camera, meaning build quality and just a darn nice camera. It would lead me to think the quality of the FZ200 would be equally as nice. Thus, it would be worthwhile for me to look at an FZ200 as an option for a compact camera as opposed to the pricier Sony RX-100 (any model). I was just making a comment as opposed to asking for help related to my interest in possibly purchasing a pocket/compact camera. But thanks anyway.

Ev

PS - reread my post seems to be written fine.
Ev you keep referring to an FZ200 which you are describing above as equally as nice. This thread is about a TZ200 which is a totally different camera! Different format and different sensor!

Unless we are on the same page any discussion is irrelevant!

Dave
Don't get worked up - its not the end of the earth here. You're right I was saying FZ 200 and I meant ZS200, i.e., the Panasonic ZS200 (known as the TZ200 outside of North America) I knew what I was meaning, I just wrote it incorrectly. Yep, it was a mistake. I make them occasionally. I don't mind being corrected - but goodness....

Ev
I can assure you I'm not at all worked up but until you acknowledge that you've cocked up then other people reading your posts can only assume that you are confused by the terminology and thus will keep telling you until you fess up. Generally speaking the participants on this forum tend not to be psychic..........................
I acknowledge, and sincerely apologize for the mistake I made in using the wrong terminology for the two cameras being discussed. It was my mistake and I regret making the mistake. I also apologize for my tone.

It is my intent to always be a good forum citizen and respond to posts or make posts in a positive manner. I didn't so I offer my apology.

Be safe. Ev
 
I've had an RX100 VI but was disappointed with the image quality. Plus the handling is awful. I've since sold it and gone back to Micro 4/3s. I have recently picked up a used TZ200. My TZ200 in some tests I did yesterday is more or less as good as my Panasonic 14-140mm f3.5-f5.6 lens which I love. It even resolved more details on the telephoto end. So would definitely recommend over the RX100 VI if you want more range.
 
I've had an RX100 VI but was disappointed with the image quality. Plus the handling is awful. I've since sold it and gone back to Micro 4/3s. I have recently picked up a used TZ200. My TZ200 in some tests I did yesterday is more or less as good as my Panasonic 14-140mm f3.5-f5.6 lens which I love. It even resolved more details on the telephoto end. So would definitely recommend over the RX100 VI if you want more range.
My first RX100 VI was also soft, so that I returned it and 'swore' never to come back. By some circumstances I got another RX100 VI that is nail sharp. The other thing is awful ergonomics, but no camera is perfect - live and let live, one shouldn't be too demanding, otherwise you'll never be happy.
 
Yeah it's too easy to expect too much from these small cameras. I do get a bit obsessed with pixel peeping when I first get new kit to make sure the image quality is what I expect and the lens isn't soft. I've had so many cameras with lens issues it's crazy.

End of the day it's all about how the camera feels in the hand and if it makes you want to go out and take photos with it.
 
Yeah it's too easy to expect too much from these small cameras. I do get a bit obsessed with pixel peeping when I first get new kit to make sure the image quality is what I expect and the lens isn't soft. I've had so many cameras with lens issues it's crazy.

End of the day it's all about how the camera feels in the hand and if it makes you want to go out and take photos with it.
So true.

27" iMacs with retina displays did boost camera sales more than any ad. ;-)
 
I've had an RX100 VI but was disappointed with the image quality. Plus the handling is awful. I've since sold it and gone back to Micro 4/3s. I have recently picked up a used TZ200. My TZ200 in some tests I did yesterday is more or less as good as my Panasonic 14-140mm f3.5-f5.6 lens which I love. It even resolved more details on the telephoto end. So would definitely recommend over the RX100 VI if you want more range.
My RX100M6 sharpness @ the long end is hit & miss. AF malfunction? Very poor IS? Switching to high iso to keep steady?

However the 4x TZ100 and TZ200's I owned were worse :-(
 
I've had an RX100 VI but was disappointed with the image quality. Plus the handling is awful. I've since sold it and gone back to Micro 4/3s. I have recently picked up a used TZ200. My TZ200 in some tests I did yesterday is more or less as good as my Panasonic 14-140mm f3.5-f5.6 lens which I love. It even resolved more details on the telephoto end. So would definitely recommend over the RX100 VI if you want more range.
My RX100M6 sharpness @ the long end is hit & miss. AF malfunction? Very poor IS? Switching to high iso to keep steady?

However the 4x TZ100 and TZ200's I owned were worse :-(
I have to say that the RX100M6 that I had for a year had an excellent lens throughout its range but the TZ100 I had for a couple of years and both my TZ200's have had great IQ too and the second one, the one I have now has excellent IQ; not too far away from that of the RX100M6. In fact if I put a slideshow on with images from both cameras, it's almost impossible to tell which camera the image is from without looking at the EXIF.

Dave
 
I've had an RX100 VI but was disappointed with the image quality. Plus the handling is awful. I've since sold it and gone back to Micro 4/3s. I have recently picked up a used TZ200. My TZ200 in some tests I did yesterday is more or less as good as my Panasonic 14-140mm f3.5-f5.6 lens which I love. It even resolved more details on the telephoto end. So would definitely recommend over the RX100 VI if you want more range.
My TZ200 is as good as my G80+14-140 f3.5-5.6 lens too.
 
dda03262c94642dbba73fc6025ccde5d.jpg
I have to say I'm a little surprised by your photo's. As I've posted repeatedly, the RX100M6 has a sharper lens than the TZ200 and in this case the reverse appears to be the case, to the extent that I'd say the RX100M6 that you have purchased may be faulty. Whilst I consider the TZ200 to be a better camera overall, my conclusion was based on focal range, menu and ergonomics and an IQ that I consider to be very good but not quite as good as the RX100M6, which is exceptional. The Sony is also blazingly fast to operate and streets ahead of the Panny in that respect.

Dave
I agree with Dave. Plus, we don't know what the settings were for each camera or whether a tripod was used (maybe I missed that?). The Sony image of the heron is terrible and appears to suffer from poor focus or a slow shutter speed that didn't stop the bird's movement. OP says he used Program mode in some cases, so that could be the culprit. Still my cheap Sony HX80 w/ 1 2/3 sensor can and has done better in good light.

The Panny image isn't much better. I'd be embarrassed to post either one. Of course, if you only need a record shot for yourself anything will suffice. YMMV.
What a jerk
 
A wee bit off topic, but this might be the group to ask, so I'll risk it.

I've just moved out of the city to a place far away. As a result, I'm in the market for a NICE pocket camera, that I can take with me when I walk my little dogs in the forest. Since the dogs will end up on a leash part of the time, and I'll probably be in my pockets for a poo bag once or twice, a full size camera hanging around my neck .. even a bridge camera .. is really a non-starter; the DSLRs will have to stay home.

I was all set to just buy a Fuji X100V, as most of what I plan to shoot is the forest; the trees, the lakes, the mountains. And the Fuji delivers, by all accounts, spectacular images.

And then the weather warmed a bit and the birds came out and I realized that a fixed wide angle lens was not going to do it. I needed to shoot birds on occasion as well.

So, I need a decent zoom that fits in a pocket. It seems to me that the Sony RX100VI (or VII) or the Lumix ZS200 are the only 2 options.

I am leaning to the Panasonic for a number of reasons; the longer zoom, the larger, easier to handle package, and a viewfinder that looks like it might live a whole lot longer than the Sony's.

But I haven't physically seen either, and my location in the middle of nowhere means I'm going to order one, have it shipped and cross my fingers it's not a mistake.

I'm not a pro, just a rank amateur, but one who (sadly) notices when something is not sharp. Maybe my biggest annoyance are images of birds with "fuzzy" feathers, not due to lack of focus or too much motion, but simply because the camera is not able to resolve them.

So here's the question. Is the Panasonic going to feel like a mistake when I look at the images? Am I going to feel like I'm shooting with a high tech Box Brownie? (If you miss this latter reference, go talk to your dads .. or your granddads.)

Thanks for any thoughts.

Alan
 
A wee bit off topic, but this might be the group to ask, so I'll risk it.

I've just moved out of the city to a place far away. As a result, I'm in the market for a NICE pocket camera, that I can take with me when I walk my little dogs in the forest. Since the dogs will end up on a leash part of the time, and I'll probably be in my pockets for a poo bag once or twice, a full size camera hanging around my neck .. even a bridge camera .. is really a non-starter; the DSLRs will have to stay home.

I was all set to just buy a Fuji X100V, as most of what I plan to shoot is the forest; the trees, the lakes, the mountains. And the Fuji delivers, by all accounts, spectacular images.

And then the weather warmed a bit and the birds came out and I realized that a fixed wide angle lens was not going to do it. I needed to shoot birds on occasion as well.

So, I need a decent zoom that fits in a pocket. It seems to me that the Sony RX100VI (or VII) or the Lumix ZS200 are the only 2 options.

I am leaning to the Panasonic for a number of reasons; the longer zoom, the larger, easier to handle package, and a viewfinder that looks like it might live a whole lot longer than the Sony's.

But I haven't physically seen either, and my location in the middle of nowhere means I'm going to order one, have it shipped and cross my fingers it's not a mistake.

I'm not a pro, just a rank amateur, but one who (sadly) notices when something is not sharp. Maybe my biggest annoyance are images of birds with "fuzzy" feathers, not due to lack of focus or too much motion, but simply because the camera is not able to resolve them.

So here's the question. Is the Panasonic going to feel like a mistake when I look at the images? Am I going to feel like I'm shooting with a high tech Box Brownie? (If you miss this latter reference, go talk to your dads .. or your granddads.)

Thanks for any thoughts.
No, it won’t feel like a mistake, the TZ200 is n excellent camera with good IQ if set up correctly.
 
I have to say I'm a little surprised by your photo's. As I've posted repeatedly, the RX100M6 has a sharper lens than the TZ200 and in this case the reverse appears to be the case, to the extent that I'd say the RX100M6 that you have purchased may be faulty. Whilst I consider the TZ200 to be a better camera overall, my conclusion was based on focal range, menu and ergonomics and an IQ that I consider to be very good but not quite as good as the RX100M6, which is exceptional. The Sony is also blazingly fast to operate and streets ahead of the Panny in that respect.

Dave
I agree with Dave. Plus, we don't know what the settings were for each camera or whether a tripod was used (maybe I missed that?). The Sony image of the heron is terrible and appears to suffer from poor focus or a slow shutter speed that didn't stop the bird's movement. OP says he used Program mode in some cases, so that could be the culprit. Still my cheap Sony HX80 w/ 1 2/3 sensor can and has done better in good light.

The Panny image isn't much better. I'd be embarrassed to post either one. Of course, if you only need a record shot for yourself anything will suffice. YMMV.
What a jerk
Your comment would suggest that someone is a bigger jerk than the gentleman you responded to........
 
I have to say I'm a little surprised by your photo's. As I've posted repeatedly, the RX100M6 has a sharper lens than the TZ200 and in this case the reverse appears to be the case, to the extent that I'd say the RX100M6 that you have purchased may be faulty. Whilst I consider the TZ200 to be a better camera overall, my conclusion was based on focal range, menu and ergonomics and an IQ that I consider to be very good but not quite as good as the RX100M6, which is exceptional. The Sony is also blazingly fast to operate and streets ahead of the Panny in that respect.

Dave
I agree with Dave. Plus, we don't know what the settings were for each camera or whether a tripod was used (maybe I missed that?). The Sony image of the heron is terrible and appears to suffer from poor focus or a slow shutter speed that didn't stop the bird's movement. OP says he used Program mode in some cases, so that could be the culprit. Still my cheap Sony HX80 w/ 1 2/3 sensor can and has done better in good light.

The Panny image isn't much better. I'd be embarrassed to post either one. Of course, if you only need a record shot for yourself anything will suffice. YMMV.
What a jerk
Your comment would suggest that someone is a bigger jerk than the gentleman you responded to........
The TZ100 does reasonable herons ... ;-)

https://flic.kr/p/2k1ambe
 

Keyboard shortcuts

Back
Top