Compact/P&S upgrade for Panasonic Lumix FZ40

[jd78]

I currently have a Panasonic Lumix FZ40, but am finding that we are not using it as much as we would like due to the size. I would like to find a Point & Shoot that is relatively compact, still had decent zoom capabilities, and it otherwise an overall upgrade to the Lumix FZ40. The camera would be used for family outings/vacations, quick pictures of our adventurous toddler, and would like to use it for video as well.

My budget is ~$300, but willing to spend a little more if needed. Currently, I was looking at the Panasonic Lumix ZS20 and the Canon Powershot SX260. I believe on paper they looked to be what I want, but I don't know if either of them would be an overall upgrade to what I have. I hope the community can help me out here.

Thanks,

JD

[SIMON40]

"Upgrade" is an unusual word to use to describe your next purchase.
The FZ40 is a Bridge/Superzoom camera- unlike the other's you're looking at- and as such, a different class of camera.
Maybe you should ask yourself what specific features you're looking for in your next purchase- from which point your search should be easier.
Obviously- you're looking for a smaller camera- but beyond that- do you need/want GPS?
How much zoom would be sufficient- and do you need a wide angle ? What type of video capability ? Will you need PASM modes,or will auto "point and shoot" scene modes be sufficient ? Maybe the latest HDR facilities float your boat- or Panoramic sweep/stitching features..?
There are many Travel zoom/compacts out there- and the two you're looking at are worth looking at- as is the SX240 (no GPS) and the ZS15 (smaller zoom, mono audio on video and 12mp v 14mp- but some say has better IQ...)
Maybe look at Sony's "HX" series and Nikon's offerings also- plus Fuji and Olympus.

If quick,spontaneous shots are required,the Panny's and the Sony's tend to be quick in the AF department..

[jd78]

Originally Posted by SIMON40

"Upgrade" is an unusual word to use to describe your next purchase.
The FZ40 is a Bridge/Superzoom camera- unlike the other's you're looking at- and as such, a different class of camera.
Maybe you should ask yourself what specific features you're looking for in your next purchase- from which point your search should be easier.
Obviously- you're looking for a smaller camera- but beyond that- do you need/want GPS?
How much zoom would be sufficient- and do you need a wide angle ? What type of video capability ? Will you need PASM modes,or will auto "point and shoot" scene modes be sufficient ? Maybe the latest HDR facilities float your boat- or Panoramic sweep/stitching features..?
There are many Travel zoom/compacts out there- and the two you're looking at are worth looking at- as is the SX240 (no GPS) and the ZS15 (smaller zoom, mono audio on video and 12mp v 14mp- but some say has better IQ...)
Maybe look at Sony's "HX" series and Nikon's offerings also- plus Fuji and Olympus.

If quick,spontaneous shots are required,the Panny's and the Sony's tend to be quick in the AF department..

Thanks for your reply.

I guess what I am looking for is something compact with similar features of what I already have, but has better performance in some areas or overall. As for the features...

* I don't care about GPS
* I rarely used the 24x zoom, but could see needing somewhere between 12 - 18x
* For video I would like to be able to record 720P with good frame rates.
* Would like to option of PSAM modes, but most shots would probably occur in Auto
* Not sure what HDR is or whether or not I would use it.
* Panoramic would be neat, but not sure how often I would use it.
* Quick shots are preferred.

I really appreciate the assistance. Cameras are always one of the most difficult things for me to shop for. Even when I research, alot of it is still greek to me.

[pcake]

i was pretty happy with my canon sx230 followed by my sx260. i like panasonic menus, but didn't do well with their smaller cameras - don't know why, although in my experience, the canons do better in lower light and higher ISO than the panasonics. you might try the panny zs15 - i've heard good things about it.