The Panasonic Lumix DMC FT1 and the Canon Powershot D10 are currently my two favourite waterproof / tough digital cameras at the backend of 2009. They are both capable of taking good photos in most situations as well as having a good set of durable features.

Basic Specification
Panasonic Lumix DMC FT1 12 megapixels 4.6x optical zoom Shockproof: 1.5m Waterproof: 3m Freezeproof: Unknown 98.3 x 63.1 x 23mm 162.5g 2.7 inch LCD screen Macro focusing 5cm	Canon Powershot D10 12 megapixels 3x optical zoom Shockproof: 1.2m Waterproof: 10m Freezeproof: -10 degrees 103.6 x 66.9 x 48.8mm 190g 2.5 inch LCD screen Macro focusing 3cm

When looking at the areas of the specification that relate to durability the Powershot D10 has the advantage. To start with it is waterproof to a depth of 10m as opposed to 3m and it can also still operate in cold conditions down to -10 degrees. It can also get in closer to the subject for macro photos too.

Aside from these features the Lumix DMC FT1 has more zoom, a wide angle lens, a larger LCD and also High Definition movies as opposed to Standard Definition movies offered by the Powershot D10.

As you can see there are some clear differences between the two cameras. Hopefully one specification fits your requirements better than the other, making your choice a lot easier.

Panasonic have gone for a look that is similar to many other digital cameras. It looks like a typical pocket sized camera. Canon has come up with something completely different and unique. For some reason the Powershot D10 reminds me of a small submarine. The dimensions of this camera mean you will have a tough job fitting it in any pocket. So if it is convenience you are after the Lumix DMC FT1 could well have the edge.

Here the two cameras are quite closely matched. The Powershot D10 scored 0.33 seconds for a single shot as opposed to 0.32 seconds and 1.05 seconds compared with 0.47 seconds when flash is turned on. The Lumix DMC FT1 is faster for multiple shots, but not as fast when turning the camera on and taking the first photo.

Both cameras are powered by lithium ion batteries. Make sure the camera is dry before removing the battery for charging.

As long as you are not looking to produce framed masterpieces you should find picture quality quite satisfactory. Both cameras can produce decent quality snapshots in most situations.

Panasonic has produced another camera that is easy to use. I must admit to liking the menu system they use. It is bright, clear and easy to use. Although the Powershot D10 is not difficult to get along with I feel the Lumix DMC FT1 has the edge here.

As I mentioned at the top I like both of these cameras. If you are looking for a simple camera you can stick in your pocket that can also fire off a High Definition movie then the Panasonic Lumix DMC FT1 is the one to go for. If you would like a camera that looks different and allows you to go deeper underwater then the winner is the Canon Powershot D10.

Front View
Panasonic Lumix DMC FT1



Canon Powershot D10


Back View
Panasonic Lumix DMC FT1



Canon Powershot D10


Top View
Panasonic Lumix DMC FT1



Canon Powershot D10

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Canon Powershot D10 Review

Canon Powershot D10 Specification

Panasonic DMC FT1 Review

Panasonic DMC FT1 Specification

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Canon Powershot D10 vs Panasonic Lumix DMC FT1

Although every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information on this site, please make sure you double check the feature set and specification at the point of purchase.