Last week we explored the advantages and limitations of the Canon PowerShot G9 X Mark II, and one conspicuous absence was 4K video recording. Most entry-level ultracompacts will still need a generation or two to incorporate that feature, but if you are willing to make a small budget adjustment (less than 50 euros), you can step up to the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX15, which not only brings the coveted 4K but also delivers very good image quality from its sensor without sacrificing overall speed.
Once again, our photographic pilgrimage takes us away from the familiar territory of companies like Canon to examine cameras that the average user probably wouldn't immediately consider. An old saying goes that "he who seeks finds", though it is often applied in a negative context, but not here. Personally, I thought it would be nearly impossible to find a camera that doesn't sabotage image quality and still delivers 4K recording for under 450 euros; however, I am glad to know the market has proven me wrong (again). The key piece of that curious puzzle is the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX15.
Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX15: An Excellent Wildcard at an Entry-Level Price
Officially announced in September 2016, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX15 (known as the LX10 in other regions) features a 20.1-megapixel effective CMOS sensor. Its ISO sensitivity ranges from 125 to 12,800, with an extended Boost from 80 to 25,600, and shutter speeds from 1/4000 to 60 seconds, except in electronic mode, which raises the maximum speed to 1/16000. The LCD panel is a standard 3-inch display with 1.04 million dots, but it's tiltable and touch-sensitive. One of the earliest compromises due to the ultracompact form factor (105 x 60 x 42 mm) is the lack of an electronic viewfinder, but that's hardly a critical blow.
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX15 has a very solid build, and you won't have trouble using it one-handed, but some users have reported a slippery feel, so the essential recommendation is to attach its strap. As for autofocus, the camera features a 49-point contrast-detection system optimized with Panasonic's DFD (Depth from Defocus) technology. This translates to very effective three-dimensional tracking, even in continuous mode, and a burst of 6 fps (the maximum is 10 fps, except in Super HS mode, which hits 50 fps for 60 frames). Face detection tends to favor the nearest subject, but you can always adjust its behavior with a tap on the screen. When shooting RAW, the buffer holds about six frames, while in JPEG it basically depends on how fast your SD card is.
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX15's interface is more generous than you'd expect from an ultracompact. A mode dial, selector, zoom lever, and a dedicated button for 'moving images' dominate the top of the camera, and on the lens we find two rings instead of one. The level of customization is notable, but it hasn't been polished to perfection. One detail? The front ring isn't stepped, which robs a bit of precision in certain situations. Generally speaking, the factory default is a good starting point. The mode dial reveals settings for Intelligent Auto or 'Full Auto', Programmable Auto 'P', Aperture Priority 'A', Shutter Priority 'S', Manual 'M', Creative Movie (the camera with the M), Panorama, Scenes 'SCN', Creative Control (the color palette), and 'C' for Custom. The official manual extends over more than 300 pages, but it's well organized and worth reading.
If there's one feature that completes the package on the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX15, it's 4K recording. Granted, video at that resolution and in 1080p comes with a slight sensor crop, so you'd need to jump (and pay almost double) to a camera like the Sony DSC-RX100 V with its spectacular oversampling if you want superior 4K, but practically speaking, the results from this Lumix are anything but bad. Its closest rivals in price and specs can't reach that resolution, but the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX15 enables 4Kp30, p25 (if you're in a PAL region), and p24 at 100 megabits per second. A fast SD card isn't mandatory, though it's recommended. Connectivity is limited to Wi-Fi n without NFC support, with remote control via a smartphone. That said, the official app requires a little patience.
Accessories for the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX15
As of this writing, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX15 sells for around 420 euros. With nearly three years on the market, the camera has become a very tempting option, and any spare budget can go toward accessories that optimize its performance and protect it.
Batteries and Power
For the battery, the recommended kit includes the SKU "DI4762,VDTS-4604-CH-1-CH-VDTS-114". With a rating of 260 shots, the battery of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX15 is fairly modest, but we've seen worse numbers in the past. The good news is that the camera supports USB charging. The bad news is that there's no external charger included (beyond the standard adapter). No problem: we can eliminate those restrictions for just 40 euros by buying a compatible DMW-BLH7 module and a Gloxy 2-in-1 charger for home and car. While one battery charges directly in the camera, the other does the same in the charger.
Tripods and Supports
It would be ridiculous if an ultracompact camera were hard to carry or hold, but there are always low-light situations or awkward angles that demand extra support. Weighing just 310 grams (with battery included), the search for a tripod for Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX15 leads us back to the friendly and effective Manfrotto Pixi, which supports a maximum load of one kilogram and can fit in your pocket. That said, the 'overkill' alternative is the Clampod Takeway T1, supporting up to 40 times the weight of the Pixi. The best part? It's still on sale.
Bags and Cases
The recommended case set includes the SKU "IM712002573,IM712837640". Lack of protection from the elements is a common issue among point-and-shoots, and the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX15 is no exception. Of course, it doesn't have the demands of a DSLR when it comes to bags or backpacks. That means you can get a very compact solution like the Manfrotto Piccolo 5 case, with a padded interior and waterproof nylon exterior. It costs 9 euros and is very comfortable. If you prefer a more robust option, you won't go wrong with the Pacsafe Camsafe ZP anti-theft cover. Locking hooks for zippers, reinforced strap, cut resistance, discreet colors, and a more than acceptable price.
Memory Cards
For memory, the SKU to look for is "IM712002182,IM712518125". The burst modes of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX15 are very interesting, and I don't think you'll think twice about wringing out the 100 Mbps of 4K recording. So why settle for weak memory cards? For less than 30 euros, you can get a Sony SF-UY3 series card with 64 GB capacity and a write speed of 70 MB/s. Want more? Then you can tackle storage head-on with a Transcend 128 GB card with 60 MB/s write speed.
Special Kits
We've reached the final section of accessories for the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX15, and our recommendation is to look closely at two very useful kits, both in the short and long term. The first is the Gloxy 6-in-1 cleaning kit, which includes swabs, liquid, a blower, a brush, wipes for the body and lens, and an anti-static cloth, leaving your camera in excellent condition for under 25 euros. The other kit is actually a portable studio, with a 40x40x40 cm light box, four different backgrounds, a small camera stand, and two lamps. If you've been thinking about product photography and want perfect results, start here.
4K video, excellent autofocus, a burst mode that doesn't disappoint, great overall performance, and a 420 euro price tag. Perhaps some of our readers aren't comfortable with the idea of adopting a camera outside the Canon-Nikon camp, but I insist: the only way to beat the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX15 on these terms is to pay double. Good luck!
