Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS40 (TZ60)

About the Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS40 (TZ60)

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS40 (TZ60) was released in January 2014, and the double name reflects regional marketing of the same camera. It combines a 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor of 18 megapixels with a 24-720 mm-equivalent lens, which is a 30x optical zoom running from F3.3 to F6.4. A reach that long turns a pocketable body into a tool for distant landmarks, wildlife at moderate range and candid travel shots, though the narrow aperture at full zoom calls for good light or steady hands.

The body measures 111 x 64 x 34 mm and weighs 240 g. Framing uses a 3-inch monitor. Images are saved to SD, SDHC or SDXC cards, which are widely available and easy to swap between devices. Because the lens is the main attraction, shooting habits matter: use the wide end for scenery and indoor scenes, and brace the camera against a wall or railing when working at the far end of the zoom.

Buying one used

Confirm the battery supplied with the camera is the correct type for this model and still holds charge, since the listing lacks a model name. Check the 30x lens extends smoothly, test an SD, SDHC or SDXC card, and examine the 3-inch monitor.