The Panasonic FZ5 is an good ultra-zoom camera because its 12X stabilized optical zoom does not come at the cost of any major compromise. Indeed, the FZ5 shows very good image quality except for higher-than-average noise levels and some noticeable optical distortion in macro mode. This combined with a fast focusing system, good continuous shooting capabilities, strong flash and great battery life, puts the Panasonic FZ5 among the best ultra-zoom digital cameras. The FZ5 is also one of the smallest ultra-zoom cameras, although this is not apparent from its pictures.

As for alternatives, there is the bigger Panasonic FZ20 which uses a brighter F2.8 lens. There is also the Canon Powershot S2 IS which isn't as good in taking pictures but considerably better at recording movies. There is also the cheaper, though slightly lesser in terms of image quality, Konica-Minolta Dimage Z5.