Canon IXUS 990 IS vs Panasonic Lumix DMC ZX1 Comparison
Canon IXUS 990 IS
Panasonic Lumix DMC ZX1
The Canon IXUS 990 IS and the Panasonic Lumix DMC ZX1 are small enough to fit into some pockets, but neither camera can really be classed as an ultra compact digital camera. In terms of features I would describe them both as a clear step up form the most basic point and shoot models. This is also true of the build quality of each camera too. They are relatively straightforward models and you should have little difficulty when it comes to using these cameras.
Basic Specification
Canon IXUS 990 IS
12 megapixels
5x Optical Zoom
3 inch LCD screen
Macro Focus: 2cm
High Definition Movies
Dimensions: 94.8 x 56.8 x 26.3mm
Weight: 160g
Panasonic Lumix DMC ZX1
12 megapixels
8x optical zoom
2.7 inch LCD screen
Macro Focus 3cm
High Definition Movies
Dimensions: 97.8 x 54.6 x 26mm
Weight: 138g
Wide Angle Lens
Features
As you can see there are not many major difference when it comes the specification. The most striking difference is the extra zoom power from the Lumix DMC ZX1. The lens on this camera also offers wide angle capabilities for squeezing more width into scenes. Both cameras also have a feature that allows you to increase the amount of zoom available if you shoot at lower resolutions.
The IXUS 990 IS has the larger LCD screen and can also get in slightly closer for close up shots. As with other Canon digital cameras I felt this camera was particularly strong in this area.
There is not a great deal to choose between the movie modes of each camera, but with Lumix DMC ZX1 can use optical zoom while you are recording a movie. With the IXUS 990 IS you can apply optical zoom before you shoot a movie, but once shooting starts you can only add digital zoom. This type of zoom has a noticeable impact on the quality of the footage.
Design
Whether you prefer the look of one camera over another is a matter of personal taste. For me I think the IXUS 990 IS looks a cut above most digital cameras on the market and is likely to appeal to the style conscious. The Lumix DMC ZX1 has a more understated design. It has a clean, simple look.
Start Up and Shutter Lag
Panasonic has greatly improved shutter delay times for many of the cameras they have released towards the end of 2009. Here the Lumix DMC ZX1 is the faster performer. This is especially true when flash is turned on. Turning on flash slows down the IXUS 990 IS considerably. The ZX1 is also very fast to turn on.
Power Supply
These cameras run on lithium ion batteries. Batteries and chargers are supplied by Canon and Panasonic as standard.
Picture Quality
Both cameras are capable of producing good quality snapshots. Overall I felt this was an area where the IXUS 990 IS had an edge over the Lumix DMC ZX1. In fact I thought the picture quality produced by the Canon model is hard to beat by other smaller compacts.
Ease of Use
I especially like the way Panasonic lays out their menu system. I also find the options easy to read. Canon has improved the look of their menu system this year. It now has a much classier look.
Verdict
In my view the Canon IXUS 990 IS has the edge when it comes to picture quality and design. For this there is a premium added into the price. If the price is not a key driver then for me this is the camera to go for. If you are looking to save a bit of money and are prepared to make a small compromise in terms of picture quality and style then you are unlikely to be disappointed by the Panasonic Lumix DMC ZX1.
Product Shots
Front View
Canon IXUS 990 IS
Panasonic Lumix DMC ZX1
Back View
Canon IXUS 990 IS
Panasonic Lumix DMC ZX1
Top View
Canon IXUS 990 IS
Panasonic Lumix DMC ZX1
