Panasonic Lumix DMC-FT3 / DMC-TS3

Overview

TechSpot Metascore

Based on 26 expert reviews

Excellent:

5
Good:

18
Average:

3
Bad:

0

Pros:

Fast-shooting.
Easy-to-use rugged compact camera with excellent features to justify its high price.
Easily accessible battery and SD card slot.

Cons:

The TS3's photos and movies look soft.
Too slow to capture action.

TechSpot is supported by its audience. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more.

Last revision on May 11, 2020

Reviewers Liked

Fast-shooting
Easy-to-use rugged compact camera with excellent features to justify its high price
Easily accessible battery and SD card slot
Improved handling due to handgrip
Better high ISO noise performance
Integrated GPS, barometer, and altimeter
Waterproof to 40 feet
Freezeproof to 14⁰F
Can withstand drops up to 6,6 feet
High-quality HD video capture (1080p at 17Mbps AVCHD)
Can zoom and refocus while recording

Reviewers Didn't Like

The TS3's photos and movies look soft
Too slow to capture action
GPS mapping service works intermittently
Expensive
Soft images
Barometer and altimeter information not viewable on your computer
LCD shows motion blur
Exposed lens shield is prone to fingerprints

Expert reviews and ratings

Like all tough and waterproof cameras the FT3 has its downsides, though it's one of the best models you can...

By CNET Australia on September 06, 2011

The FT3 should be given serious consideration from potential 'tough camera' buyers as Panasonic have given attention to little things such as a double lock on the battery compartment / sd card entry, and sped up the auto focus and start up times...

By Buy-n-Shoot on July 29, 2011

Having recently reviewed the Olympus TG-610 my first thoughts when picking up the FT3 were that it didn't feel quite as strong and tough as the TG-610. During testing the FT3 performed and handled just as well with the main differences being...

By ePHOTOzine on July 04, 2011

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FT3 is priced at a market operating price of Rs. 27,200. This is on the pricier side of point of shoot cameras. Though it has some amazing features and delivered on all performance fronts, the price is a bit of a let down....

By Tech2 on June 30, 2011

The outdoor crowd have seen a slew of rugged' cameras slip through their fingers over the past few years. At first glance, this may appear to be all about its novelty GPS, compass, altimeter and 3D features, but Panasonic has delivered a something...

By itreviews.com on June 01, 2011

GPS and fast shooting performance make the Panasonic Lumix DMC-TS3 a worthy rugged point-and-shoot even if its photos and videos aren't the...

By cnet on May 25, 2011

Panasonic's DMC-FT3 represents the third generation of a line that began in with the FT1, which set the benchmark for rugged, waterproof cameras. The lens hasn't changed since the first model; nor has the LCD monitor. After a brief flirtation...

By Photo Review Australia on May 01, 2011

100

Image quality isn't outstanding but the long list of great features, from 12m waterproofing to 1080p video capture, makes this an impressive all-rounder....

By Expert Reviews on April 22, 2011

Panasonic has refreshed its older FT2 model with more than just a redesigned chassis, adding noticeable improvements that make the FT3 a better performer than its predecessor....

By CNET Asia on April 14, 2011

Images from the Panasonic Lumix DMC-TS3 are on the soft side, but its tough build and innovative feature set make this pocket camera our favorite rugged outdoor shooter....

By PC Mag on April 11, 2011

Load More Reviews…