LX5 Evolution
Wednesday, July 21, 2010 at 13:45 ;)
Image courtesy of Panasonic
I've used a lot of cameras over the years. Of all those, the LX1 stands out as the camera that inspired me to become more active as a photographer. It was immensely fun to use and encouraged experimentation due to its unique aspect ratio and manual controls. The fact that I liked the modern, minimalist styling probably meant I grabbed the camera more often than I might otherwise have.
That was back in late 2005. Today Panasonic officially announced the LX5, the 4th model in the LX series. Although I've moved on to shooting with Micro Four Thirds cameras due to their larger sensor, I'm still drawn to the LX series. The LX5's styling is still minimalist and is clearly evolved from the original LX1. And although the body and sensor size have remained the same, each model improves upon the performance, features and user interface of its predecessor. The newest model features an extended zoom range, an adjustment wheel, a connector for an optional EVF, extended battery life as well as an improved sensor and optical image stabilizer. The LX5 is also be the first Lumix camera to feature auto ISO in manual mode. We'll probably see that capability added in the next generation of Micro Four Thirds cameras as well.
Below I've created a scaled size comparison between the Panasonic LX5 and GF1. I've included Sony's NEX-5 model to show the potential for further miniaturization of the GF series: if the Sony with its larger APS-C sensor can be smaller than the current GF1, then there's no reason why the GF2 can't be even more compact. While a further decrease in the width and height of the GF1 would probably have a negative impact on ergonomics, I would welcome a reduction in body thickness and overall weight.
Looking at the size comparison, the trade-off is immediately apparent: if you want a relatively compact kit you have to compromise either on sensor size or zoom range. Click on image to open a larger version.
;)
Relative Camera, Lens and Sensor Sizes
Björn Utpott
Thanks for your corrections Fiebl and Erik; I've made the changes in the new diagram. I've also incorporated your suggestion Brian, to show the 2 interchangeable lens cameras with zoom lenses having similar ranges to that of the LX5. The diagram now shows a contour of the GF1's and the NEX-5's respective kit zooms. They're not as wide as the LX5's built in lens, but it's as close as it gets for the moment. I could have used Olympus' collapsible zoom lens on the GF1 but that lens is not stabilized.
Reader Comments (23)
Saw your post on dpr. This is an excellent comparison! I'm amazed you could create the comparison with accuracy. Another good comparison would be one with the same cameras but with lenses having comparable zoom range. (Could be just another row here just above the sensor size) That's a big difference for me who would probably just stick with the kit lens rather than take advantage of interchangeable lenses.
Thanks very much. I was able to scale the images of each camera accurately by using a CAD (drafting) program. It's an interesting idea to compare the cameras with a similar zoom range. Maybe I'll get around to doing just that tomorrow.
Hi Björn, "Ehrik" here. I didn't know it would do auto ISO in M, that could be very useful (if the metering is sensible). Interesting and useful size comparison. One point: the NEX crop factor is 1.538, so 16mm works out to 24.6mm equiv. or 25mm rounded.
Björn,
a useful comparision and at the same time just beautiful to look at!
However, I think the weight specified for the LX5 by DPR (176 g) is way off the mark. The correct value according to Panasonics specs is 271 g (incl.).
Günter
I guess Panasonic hoped for good fortune. Often with these cameras (LX, Ricoh GX and GRD) the first is ground breaking. The second version often is slightly improved. Then the third becomes much better and it goes on and on. Even though this one became the LX5 I still believe it is a LX4. Small improvements, but for those who have the LX3 I think there is no need to upgrade.
Panny must get to the size of the nex5 with interchangeable lens but high IQ.. Great graphics..
Wouter, I have a soft spot for the LX series and if I were to shoot with a small sensor camera again, it would be with the LX5. But you're right it doesn't seem to be that significant of an upgrade over the LX3. They could have called the camera the LX4, but apparently the number 4 is very unlucky in several Asian cultures, including Japan where 4, pronounced shi, is a homophone for death. And I think that's premature for the LX series.
Joan, that's what I'm hoping for: a lighter GF2. Panasonic can't afford to have a bulkier camera with a smaller sensor. The whole point of the smaller 4/3 sensor in the first place was to allow for both smaller lenses and bodies. Of course downsizing would have to occur without compromising ergonomics. But that shouldn't be a problem when you take the LX3/5 as an example.
Great idea adding profiles of the lenses. This is why I'll probably end up with the LX5. I'm not sure I am willing to give up all freedom on the focal length just to have a walk-around camera. For me baby=camera in the pocket if you want to catch the moment (doesn't seem like a big topic in DPR forums). The GF1 pancake's focal length is tempting, but I'm not impressed with the step up in low-light performance. I'm actually tempted by the EPL-1 with it's excellent low-light performance and relatively small zoom lens that covers most of the LX5's range. I just wish they hadn't stripped it down so much. Maybe I'll change my mind if I can get a chance to play with these.
Brian, I don't often feel that I'm giving up the freedom of a zoom when I'm out with nothing other than the pancake. There are exceptions, but I find that 40mm (equivalent) is versatile focal length. Of course your opinion will vary heavily with your particular shooting style and the LX5 is still a lot more compact than even the GF1 + pancake.
I tested the E-PL1 while travelling through Japan in May. I was drawn to Olympus' built-in image stabilization, which ended up giving me about 1 stop slower shutter speeds. Obviously changing settings on the EPL-1 isn't as fluid as with the GF1. But the camera was specifically designed for a more point and shoot operation, so you can't fault it for that. But there were a couple of things that did bother me. In low light AF would struggle to lock focus. This often meant not getting the shot I wanted in indoor lighting. Also in low light, the Olympus' screen becomes grainy while the GF1's screen was still clear and sharp (both at ISO100). That makes it hard to see details of what you're framing. Overall, the E-PL1 felt slower. The lag between taking a photo and being able to review it on the screen is much longer than on the GF1, which feels instantaneous in comparison. The E-PL1 isn't a bad camera, it just wasn't the camera for me.
As to its image quality being superior at higher sensitivities, I did a meticulous side-by-side comparison with the GF1 and the E-PL1 using the same lens (Leica 45mm F2.8 Macro). Using RAW, there is very little difference in the two cameras' output. If I had to choose, I'd give a very slight edge to the GF1. Out of camera JPEGs are also quite similar. The Panasonic applies more noise reduction than the Olympus does when both cameras are at their lowest NR settings. The amount of detail in both high ISO images is about the same, but the Olympus file contains more noise. If you (or anyone) is interested, I can make the JPEG and RAW files available for download.
Hello Bjorn. Thank you for the excellent work here. I am currently looking for a small camera to supplement my slr. Still undeceded. :)
Very nice comparison. You were always good at that. LX5 seems like a very nice camera. I had LX3, like You did, and find it was best small camera I ever used. I hope LX5 will be even better.
Hi Bjorn!
I had an Lx3 which i used in Europe. I traded it on my return due to lack of zoom for an Fz35. I miss the fast glass. I do notice the Lx5 will not let you adjust the flash output as both the Lx3 and Fz 35 do.
I miss the Lx3 for indoor low light shooting and it's small size. It's lack of zoom hurts but I must confess I loved the output from the camera
Chris
Hi Chris; I didn't realize that the LX5 doesn't allow you to adjust flash exposure. Good find. The output of the LX3 is very good compared to cameras like the FZ35: not only does it have a much brighter lens, but the sensor of the LX3 has almost twice the area as that of the FZ35. Of course the price you pay for improved image quality is a limited zoom range. I've limited my zoom range even further to obtain even better image quality by using a GF1 with a prime lens. But it really depends on what kind of photos you are after.
That was an amazing comparison chart...really helphful!!! :D
I have a small sensor superzoom TZ7 (ZS3) and because i am not happy with its low light capabilities I am trying to decide in buying either LX5 or GF1.
I think I'm leaning more towards the LX5 because of the compactness and the more useful focal range.
I mean if I'm gonna need a bag to carry my camera (eg. GF1) why not buy a full DSLR body like Nikon D5000 with the benefit of a normal viewfinder. So I think I ll follow this way, buy now LX5 and later go for a dslr.
What do you think.
Hi Barret. While your approach also makes sense (buy a capable compact like the LX5 to be followed later by a DSLR), I have chosen a different path. I've replaced both my compact camera (LX3) and my DSLR (D300) with Micro Four Thirds camera(s). When I need a compact kit, I take nothing more than my GF1 and the 20/1.7 pancake along. When I'm on a dedicated photographic outing, I take additional lenses. In the future I plan to have both a compact GF type body as well as a more fully featured, larger body with an EVF and articulated screen. The advantage is that both bodies will be able to use the same lenses. Also, the small body can serve as the backup to the larger body when I'm traveling since I can use the same lenses with it. I guess I could also choose to use the Sony NEX or the Samsung NX system, but I really like Panasonic's 20mm pancake and the 7-14mm ultrawide zoom.
Personally, I don't want to go back to using an optical viewfinder; I prefer the feedback I get from an electronic viewfinder. I know many would not agree with me.
I am appreciating this conversation very much.
I am in the market for a Micro Four Third, and can't really decide between gf-1 and nex-5.
Which would bring me closer to my nikon d700 quality. I certainly will purchase an adapter for my nikon lenses, but will have to take one brand lens with both.
Image quality is priority. I'll have to adapt to new menus (real button on gf1, electronic on nex-5) anyways. Nex-5 has bigger sensor, giving less noise as far as I know... but gf-1 is closer to full control...
Movies with stereo sound on sony, mono on panasonic...
Renato, I think both will deliver good image quality. It depends on the circumstances and mostly on the specific lens you plan on using. During the day, the NEX-5 should provide somewhat better dynamic range due to its larger sensor. Shooting with higher sensitivities in dimly lit surroundings, the GF1 might actually produce superior results when you use it with the 20mm F1.7 lens. That lens is 1.5 stops faster than the fastest (at the moment) Sony NEX lens. So, for example, if you need ISO400 on the GF1 at F1.7, you'd have to use between ISO1000 and 1250 to obtain the same shutter speed on the NEX-5 with the 16mm pancake at F2.8. So I would argue which camera you choose would depend on the lenses you want to use.
Hi Bjorn
I was hoping to get some reviews on nex5 and gf1.. kind of dillema don't know which to get
let's just say I'm new to photography.. wanted something compact and yet similar to dslr
any opinions? gf1 or nex3/5?
Thanks
Hi "vfrois,"
It's a tough choice. You might want to try choosing which lens you want to work with and then pick the camera it comes with. Both the NEX-5 and the GF1 are really only compact with a fixed focal length prime. The kit zooms make both cameras quite a bit larger. In terms of the kits with pancake lenses, Sony offers a 25mm equivalent f/2.8 lens. This is quite a wide lens for general purpose photography, but it may suit your needs if you shoot a lot of landscapes, streetscapes or building interiors. The GF1's pancake lens' 40mm equivalent focal length is better suited to general purpose photography. I find 40mm a versatile focal length and will happily leave the house with nothing else. The Lumix 20mm f/1.7 is also 1.5 stops brighter, so it should more than compensate for the somewhat smaller sensor in the GF1.
...and if you decide to get the GF1, and have some extra cash, you could also get the ultra compact 14mm f/2.5 pancake. Then you'd also have a wide lens - one that only weighs 55g.
Hi Bjorn
Thanks for the reviews. Greatly appreciated!
Seems like the GF1 is worth it's money. Hmm should I wait for the GF2 or go ahead to purchase GF1 and it's Nov! I'm guessing GF2 est launching Feb/March?
P.S. I like micro cam partly compact and good for travel usage