Panasonic Lumix G97 and ZS99 Launched

2024.12.17

Earlier this morning, Panasonic made a surprise announcement for two refreshed digital cameras. Both brings a few changes compared to existing models, showing that Panasonic is working both their Travel-Zooms and their Micro Four-Thirds lineups.

First up, there is the new Panasonic Lumix DC-G97 that comes with some minor improvements over the older G95. This is a mid-size hybrid mirrorless digital camera with a deep grip and triple control-dials. It is based upon the same imaging pipeline as its predecessor: a 20 MP Four-Thirds CMOS sensor mounted on a 5-Axis image stabilization system that offers up to 5-stops of shake compensation. There is a relatively fast hybrid shutter too that spans speeds from 1/16,000s to 1 minutes. The processor of the G97 can sustain over 600 JPEG or 30 RAW files per burst at 9 FPS. This camera offers an impressive feature-set, including 7-frame AEB.

Externally, the Lumix 97 and G95 are virtually identical. Their ergonomics are impressive for the price-point and there are plenty of direct controls around the camera. There is a 0.5" EVF with 2.4 megapixels, has an extra large 0.74X magnification and shows 100% coverage. It even comes with an essential Eye-Start Sensor. There is also a rear 3" Touchscreen LCD that has been upgraded to 1.8 megapixels. There is now also a USB 2.0 Type-C port as a second upgrade. Nothing has apparently changed between this model and its predecessor.

Next is the Panasonic Lumix DC-ZS99, a Travel-Zoom that is a downgrade from its predecessor, the ZS80. This model is built upon the same imaging pipeline that pairs a 20 MP 1/2.3" sensor with a compact 30X optical zoom lens. It spans a 24-720mm focal-range with a dim F/3.3-6.4 maximum aperture. At least it has optical stabilization of unspecified efficacy. This is one of the few compact cameras on the market and it offers Full-Manual Controls plus RAW capture.

At its back, there is a 3" Touchscreen LCD with 1.8 Megapixels, just like on the G97. This screen even tilts. What is absent though is a viewfinder. The ZS80 has one but this makes the ZS99 a significant downgrade. As Travel Zooms, these cameras are expected to be highly versatile. Yet, without a viewfinder, capturing images in bright light will be difficult. Additionally, a long zoom is significantly less stable when used away from the body. Having the camera against you greatly reduces vibrations which at 720mm are highly magnified.

Both these new Panasonic digital cameras are expected February 2025. The Panasonic ZS99 is priced at $500 USD, while the Panasonic G97 will launch for $850 USD, including a versatile 12-60mm F/3.5-5.6 lens. This being Micro Four-Thirds, is equivalent to a 24-120mm lens on Full-Frame.

• Digital Camera