Panasonic DMC LS80 review and ratings
The Panasonic DMC LS80 is a simple, yet effective digital camera. It is on the large side for slipping into a trouser pocket, but it is still compact enough for you to be able to carry it around with you without it being a burden.
In terms of build quality and design, it is not up to the mark of some of the more stylish cameras on the market. It has a plastic body and a functional rather than elegant design. The upside of this is that the larger body can make the camera easier to hold than a more slimline camera, especially with a raised grip area on the front of the camera. As is now the norm the DMC LS80 comes in a choice of colours. You can select from black, silver and pink.
When it comes to features I can’t think of anything obvious missing when comparing with other entry level cameras. In fact this is one of the cheapest cameras available offering image stabilisation. Another feature worth a mention is the widescreen movie mode. On top of this is a special setting for the LCD screen. Panasonic refer to this as a high angle mode. It means it is easier to see the screen when you are holding the camera above eye level. Therefore this may come in handy if you are using the camera to take photos over the top of a crowd.
Another camera that I like at this level is the Canon Powershot A470. You will also find the Powershot A470 a bit cheaper than the DMC LS80 if you are prepared to shop around a little. When comparing the two I would say the Powershot A470 takes a sharper picture, while the DMC LS80 is easier to use. If you are planning to shoot a lot of video clips the widescreen option offered by the Panasonic camera may swing the balance in its favour.
Rating: Above Average
Perhaps not quite the very best entry level camera on the market, but the Panasonic DMC LS80 still does a pretty good job. When it comes to ease of use you may find this camera difficult to beat.
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