Panasonic LUMIX ZS50 Point & Shoot Camera
The Panasonic DMC-ZS50 is a 12.1MP 1/2.3 inch compact camera — with 1080p video. Used copies start from $279 on GearFocus, with buyer protection on every purchase.
Panasonic LUMIX ZS50 Point & Shoot Camera
Used Panasonic DMC-ZS50 Listings on GearFocus
Camera Overview — Panasonic DMC-ZS50
Key Features — Panasonic DMC-ZS50
30x Optical Zoom Lens: Wide-to-telephoto zoom range makes the ZS50 versatile for travel photography without carrying additional lenses.
Built-In Electronic Viewfinder: 1166k dot EVF with 60fps refresh rate is an uncommon inclusion at this camera size, useful for composing in bright sunlight.
12.1MP 1/2.3-Inch Sensor: Captures stills at up to 4000x3000 pixels with an ISO range of 80–6400 for varied lighting conditions.
10fps Burst Shooting: High-speed burst mode helps capture fast-moving subjects across sequential frames.
Optical Image Stabilization: Built-in OIS reduces camera shake during handheld shooting, supplemented by a digital IS option for video.
49-Point Subject Tracking AF: Contrast detection autofocus with subject tracking helps keep moving targets sharp without manual adjustment.
Camera Specifications — Panasonic DMC-ZS50
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Use Cases | Travel, Beginner-Friendly |
| Type | Point and Shoot |
| Sensor | 1/2.3 inch |
| Resolution | 12.1MP |
| ISO Range | 80 – 6400 |
| AF System | Contrast Detection |
| AF Points | 49 |
| Max Photo Resolution | 4000x3000 |
| Burst Rate | 10 fps |
| Max Video Resolution | 1080p |
| Max Frame Rate | 60fps |
| Bit Depth | 8-bit |
Description — Panasonic DMC-ZS50
The Panasonic LUMIX ZS50 is a point-and-shoot compact camera featuring a 1/2.3-inch sensor with 12.1MP resolution. It captures stills at a maximum resolution of 4000x3000 pixels and can shoot bursts at up to 10fps, making it well-suited for capturing fast action in a pocketable body. The autofocus system relies on contrast detection with 49 focus points and supports subject tracking for keeping moving subjects sharp.
The ZS50 records 1080p video at up to 60fps in 8-bit color, with available frame rates of 30fps and 60fps. Image stabilization is handled via Optical (OIS) with an additional digital IS option. The camera offers a 3-inch LCD at 1040k dots and a built-in electronic viewfinder at 1166k dots with a 60fps refresh rate.
Four color profiles — Standard, Vivid, Natural, and Monochrome — apply to both stills and video. The body measures 110.6 x 64.3 x 34.4 mm, weighs 243g, and includes Wi-Fi, USB, and Micro HDMI output. The ISO range spans 80 to 6400, and the battery is rated for 300 shots per charge.
Pros — Panasonic DMC-ZS50
- ✓Built-in electronic viewfinder with 1166k dot resolution and 60fps refresh rate is a rare feature for a point-and-shoot
- ✓10fps burst mode enables fast sequential shooting for action and wildlife
- ✓Optical image stabilization (OIS) plus digital IS provides two layers of shake reduction
Cons — Panasonic DMC-ZS50
- ✗1/2.3-inch sensor is relatively small, which limits light-gathering ability, especially at higher ISO values up to 6400
- ✗No weather sealing, making the camera vulnerable in rain or dusty conditions
- ✗Battery life is rated at 300 shots, which may require carrying a spare on longer shooting days
Videos — Panasonic DMC-ZS50
Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS50 Camera Review — Bob Kovacs
Frequently Asked Questions — Panasonic DMC-ZS50
Does the LUMIX ZS50 have a viewfinder?+
Yes, the ZS50 includes a built-in electronic viewfinder with 1166k dot resolution and a 60fps refresh rate. This is in addition to the 3-inch, 1040k dot LCD display on the back of the camera.
What video resolutions and frame rates does the ZS50 support?+
The ZS50 records video at up to 1080p resolution with frame rate options of 30fps and 60fps. Video is recorded in 8-bit color depth.
Does the ZS50 have image stabilization?+
Yes, the camera includes Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) as well as a digital IS option. Note that in-body IS is not present — stabilization is handled optically and digitally.
What memory cards does the ZS50 accept?+
The ZS50 is compatible with SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards. Only a single card slot is present.
Is the LUMIX ZS50 weather sealed?+
No, the ZS50 does not have weather sealing. The body is constructed from plastic and metal but is not rated for use in rain or dusty environments.
Does the ZS50 support Wi-Fi or Bluetooth?+
The ZS50 includes Wi-Fi connectivity for wireless image transfer and remote operation. Bluetooth is not supported on this camera.