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Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 Review | 108 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£110
  • Avg. price in US: ~$110
  • Sensor size: 1/2.3"
  • Lens mount: N/A
  • Main camera pixel size: 1.42 µm
  • Weight: 112 g
  • Battery life (CIPA): 280 shots

Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 review. Compare 108 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among cameras and if it is worth buying.

4.3

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the camera's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best cameras on the market.

Score components:

90.0%

3.8

Technical Score

10.0%

8.7

User score

Poor
3.8

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the camera's technical performance, covering eight key areas: image quality, autofocus, video features, stabilization, lens compatibility, connectivity, battery, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare cameras based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

28.0%

4.3

Sensor & Image

25.0%

3.6

Photo Features

18.0%

3.7

Video & Audio

14.0%

4.1

Display & Design

8.0%

3.4

Battery & Power

7.0%

2.2

Connectivity & Storage

Poor
8.7

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the camera.

When it matters: When real-world owner satisfaction and review volume matter to your decision.

Score components:

70.0%

8.2

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.2
(55)
amazon
4.7
(7)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.2
(55)
Amazon_logo.png
3.8
(17)

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

Excellent
  • 3.2
    Professional photography

    Score components:

    25.0%

    5.8

    Sensor size

    20.0%

    5.2

    Main camera megapixels

    20.0%

    1.0

    Dual card slots

    15.0%

    1.9

    N. of focus points

    10.0%

    1.0

    RAW photo capture

    10.0%

    1.0

    Phase-detection autofocus (photos)

  • 4.8
    Travel

    Score components:

    35.0%

    10

    Weight

    30.0%

    3.3

    Battery life (CIPA)

    20.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    15.0%

    1.0

    GPS

  • 7.7
    Beginners

    Score components:

    30.0%

    9.9

    Price

    20.0%

    10

    Weight

    20.0%

    10

    AF tracking

    20.0%

    3.3

    Battery life (CIPA)

    10.0%

    1.0

    Touchscreen

  • 3.6
    Landscape photography

    Score components:

    30.0%

    5.2

    Main camera megapixels

    25.0%

    5.8

    Sensor size

    20.0%

    1.5

    Main camera pixel size

    15.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    10.0%

    1.0

    RAW photo capture

  • 7.4
    Street photography

    Score components:

    30.0%

    10

    Weight

    25.0%

    10

    Thickness

    20.0%

    ?

    AF low-light sensitivity

    15.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    10.0%

    1.0

    Eye detection AF (human)

  • 3.2
    Portraits

    Score components:

    30.0%

    5.8

    Sensor size

    25.0%

    1.5

    Main camera pixel size

    20.0%

    1.0

    Eye detection AF (human)

    15.0%

    5.2

    Main camera megapixels

    10.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

  • 4.6
    Hiking

    Score components:

    30.0%

    10

    Weight

    25.0%

    3.3

    Battery life (CIPA)

    20.0%

    2.8

    Min operating temperature

    15.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    10.0%

    1.0

    GPS

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Best rankings

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Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-S2 is an ultra-compact budget digital camera featuring a 14.1-megapixel 1/2.33-inch CCD sensor and a 28–112mm equivalent wide-angle lens with 4x optical zoom. Key characteristics include MEGA O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilisation), a 2.7-inch 230k-dot LCD screen, and 720p HD video recording at 30fps. Its main pros are its exceptionally lightweight design (112g), high-speed Sonic Speed AF, and the inclusion of Intelligent Auto (iA) mode for simplified shooting. However, its cons include limited performance in low-light conditions due to the small sensor, a lack of RAW support, and a relatively slow continuous shooting speed of only 1.5 fps.

Technical Specifications of Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the camera's technical performance, covering eight key areas: image quality, autofocus, video features, stabilization, lens compatibility, connectivity, battery, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare cameras based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

28.0%

4.3

Sensor & Image

25.0%

3.6

Photo Features

18.0%

3.7

Video & Audio

14.0%

4.1

Display & Design

8.0%

3.4

Battery & Power

7.0%

2.2

Connectivity & Storage

3.8
Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 has a technical score of 3.78 points, which is lower than 92% of cameras.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the camera.

When it matters: When real-world owner satisfaction and review volume matter to your decision.

Score components:

70.0%

8.2

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.2
(55)
amazon
4.7
(7)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.2
(55)
Amazon_logo.png
3.8
(17)

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

8.7
Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 has a user score of 8.75 points, which is higher than 76.9% of cameras.
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the camera.
When it matters: When you want to see which cameras attract the most buyer attention and review activity.
10
Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 has a popularity of 10 points, which is higher than 66.1% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the camera's overall rating with its cost.

When it matters: When you want to know how much overall quality you get for the price.

Score components:

60.0%

4.3

Overall score

40.0%

9.9

Price

6.0
Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 has a quality-to-price ratio of 6 points, which is lower than 67.1% of products in this category.
Sensor size
What it is: The sensor format value describes the physical light-collecting area.
When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: Full frame or larger

1/2.3"
Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 uses a sensor classified as 1/2.3"; it is smaller than the sensor in 60.5% of cameras and the same size as the sensor in 38.1% of cameras.
Main camera megapixels
What it is: The effective resolution of the camera sensor, measured in megapixels (MP). Higher megapixels can capture more detail.
When it matters: When you want high-resolution photos that allow more cropping or larger prints.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 20 MP

14.1 MP
Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 has a main camera resolution of 14.1 MP, which is lower than that of 75.4% of cameras and equal to that of 2.8% of cameras.
Main camera pixel size
What it is: The physical size of individual pixels on the camera sensor, measured in micrometers. Larger pixels typically capture more light for better low-light performance.
When it matters: When you shoot in low light and want reduced noise in your photos.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 3.5 µm

1.42 µm
Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 has a main camera pixel size of 1.42 µm which is smaller than in 70.4% of cameras and equal to the size in 1.6% of cameras.
Base ISO
What it is: The native ISO setting that delivers the sensor’s standard balance of image quality and dynamic range.
When it matters: When you want the best native image quality and compare cameras at their most optimal sensitivity setting.

Importance: LOW

100
Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 has a base ISO of 100 which is higher than that of 20.3% of cameras and equal to that of 52% of cameras.
Max ISO
What it is: The ISO ceiling shows the highest sensor sensitivity available for darker scenes.
When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least ISO 25,600

1,600
Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 reaches a maximum sensitivity of ISO 1,600, which is lower than that of 85.9% of cameras and equal to that of 13.3% of cameras.
Show more
Lens mount
What it is: The mechanical and electronic interface that determines which interchangeable lenses the camera can use.
When it matters: When lens availability, upgrade options, and long-term system compatibility are central to your buying decision.

Importance: LOW

N/A
Built-in focus motor
What it is: Indicates whether the camera body includes an internal autofocus motor for driving compatible lenses.
When it matters: When you plan to use older or budget lenses that depend on the camera body for autofocus drive.

Importance: LOW

no
Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 does not have a built-in focus motor. 11% of cameras have a built-in focus motor.
N. of focus points
What it is: The total number of selectable autofocus points available for positioning and tracking focus.
When it matters: When you want more flexibility in placing focus precisely or tracking subjects across the frame.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 200 points

23
Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 has 23 focus points, more than the number offered by 44.6% of cameras and equal to the number offered by 5.7% of cameras.
Phase-detection autofocus (photos)
What it is: Autofocus technology that measures phase differences to lock focus quickly and accurately for still photography.
When it matters: When you want faster and more reliable autofocus for still photos, especially with moving subjects.

Importance: HIGH

no
Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 does not support phase-detection autofocus for photos. 37.5% of cameras support phase-detection autofocus for photos.
AF tracking
What it is: An autofocus mode that continuously follows a moving subject to keep it sharp during shooting.
When it matters: When your subjects move unpredictably and you need the camera to keep focus on them automatically.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 supports AF tracking. This feature is available on 88% of cameras.
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Max video resolution
What it is: The highest video resolution the camera can record, defining the maximum level of captured image detail.
When it matters: When you care about recording the highest level of detail for cropping, editing, or future-proof video work.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 3840 px

1,280 px
Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 supports 1,280 px video recording which is lower quality than that of 71.4% of cameras and equal to that of 18.5% of cameras.
Video bitrate
What it is: The amount of video data recorded per second, which affects file size and potential recording quality.
When it matters: When you compare potential video quality and want fewer compression artifacts in demanding scenes.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 200 Mbps

?
Video bit depth
What it is: The number of bits used per color channel in recorded video, affecting gradation smoothness and editing flexibility.
When it matters: When you color grade video and want smoother gradients with fewer banding issues.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 10-bit

8 bit
Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 supports video at 8 bit, a bit depth higher than that of 7.8% of cameras and equal to that of 80.6% of cameras.
Video chroma subsampling
What it is: The color sampling format used in video recording, indicating how much color detail is retained relative to brightness detail.
When it matters: When color grading, keying, or serious post-production work is important in your video workflow.

Importance: LOW

4:2:0
Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 supports 4:2:0 video chroma subsampling which is more advanced than that of 7.8% of cameras and equal to that of 69.9% of cameras.
Video codecs
What it is: The video compression formats the camera can use when recording, affecting compatibility, efficiency, and workflow.
When it matters: When compatibility, editing performance, and file efficiency matter in the way you handle video.

Importance: LOW

Motion JPEG
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Type
What it is: The camera type identifies the overall design, such as mirrorless, DSLR, compact, or bridge.
When it matters: When you want a camera style that matches how you shoot, carry, and swap lenses.

Importance: LOW

compact
Weight
What it is: The total weight of the camera body, which affects comfort while carrying and shooting.
When it matters: When you carry the camera all day, travel often, or prefer a lighter setup.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: 500 g or less

112 g
Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 weighs 112 g which is lighter than 98.8% of cameras.
Width
What it is: The width of the camera body, measured from side to side.
When it matters: When compact packing, grip comfort, or bag fit matters to you.

Importance: LOW

98 mm
Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 has a width of 98 mm which is narrower than 86.5% of cameras and equal to that of 0.6% of cameras.
Height
What it is: The height of the camera body, measured from top to bottom.
When it matters: When you care about how compact the camera feels in a bag or in hand.

Importance: LOW

57 mm
Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 has a height of 57 mm which is shorter than 90.8% of cameras and equal to that of 1% of cameras.
Thickness
What it is: The depth of the device profile, excluding the camera bump unless specified.
When it matters: When you prefer a sleek, slim profile that slides easily into tight pockets.

Importance: LOW

21 mm
Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 has a thickness of 21 mm which is thinner than 91.3% of cameras and equal to that of 0.5% of cameras.
Show more
Battery life (CIPA)
What it is: The official battery endurance estimate measured under CIPA test methodology, usually expressed in shots per charge.
When it matters: When you need realistic expectations for how many shots you can take before carrying a spare battery.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 400 shots

280 shots
Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 has a CIPA-rated battery life of 280 shots, which is shorter than that of 66.6% of cameras and equal to that of 1.3% of cameras.
Battery capacity
What it is: The amount of electric charge the battery can hold, measured in milliampere-hours (mAh).
When it matters: When you want a general idea of how large the battery is physically.

Importance: LOW

Good value: At least 1,500 mAh

680 mAh
Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 has a battery capacity of 680 mAh which is smaller than the batteries in 92.7% of cameras and equal to those in 2.8% of cameras.
Removable battery
What it is: Indicates whether the flight battery can be removed and swapped by the user.
When it matters: When you want to swap batteries quickly between flights.

Importance: LOW

yes
Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 has a removable battery, and 98.7% of cameras include one.
USB Power Delivery (PD)
What it is: Support for the USB Power Delivery standard for higher-power charging or external power supply over USB-C.
When it matters: When you want faster USB-C charging or the ability to power the camera externally for longer sessions.

Importance: LOW

no
Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 does not support USB Power Delivery. 10.1% of cameras support USB Power Delivery.
Wi-Fi connectivity
What it is: Indicates whether the camera has built-in Wi-Fi for image transfer, remote control, or network features.
When it matters: When you want to transfer photos wirelessly, control the camera from a phone, or use supported network workflows.

Importance: LOW

no
Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 does not support Wi-Fi. 47.9% of cameras include this feature.
Wi-Fi version
What it is: The specific generation of Wi-Fi standards supported (e.g., Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi 7), determining maximum speed and efficiency.
When it matters: When you have a high-speed router and want faster downloads with less congestion.

Importance: LOW

N/A
Bluetooth connectivity
What it is: Indicates whether the camera supports Bluetooth for pairing, remote control, or file transfer.
When it matters: When you want quick wireless pairing with a phone, remote control, or location syncing.

Importance: LOW

no
Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 does not have Bluetooth. 22.7% of cameras support Bluetooth.
Bluetooth version
What it is: The Bluetooth version supported by the camera for wireless pairing and low-power connections.
When it matters: When you want more efficient wireless pairing, better range, or newer Bluetooth features.

Importance: LOW

N/A
USB Type-C
What it is: A modern, reversible connector used for charging, data transfer, and sometimes audio or video output.
When it matters: When you want a reversible cable that handles charging, data, and accessories universally.

Importance: LOW

no
Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 does not include USB Type-C. 14.6% of cameras use USB-C.
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Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 vs the average camera

  • 71.6% lighter
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 is lighter than the average camera (112 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.
    What it is: The total weight of the camera body, which affects comfort while carrying and shooting.
    When it matters: When you carry the camera all day, travel often, or prefer a lighter setup.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: 500 g or less

    Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 is lighter than the average camera (112 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.112 g vs 395 g
  • 0.07 GB more storage
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 has a higher internal storage than the average camera (0.1 GB vs 0 GB). The average camera offers 0 GB of internal storage.
    What it is: The total built-in space available for apps, media, and files.
    When it matters: When you keep large libraries of photos, videos, and apps directly on your device.

    Importance: LOW

    Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 has a higher internal storage than the average camera (0.1 GB vs 0 GB). The average camera offers 0 GB of internal storage.0.07 GB vs 0 GB
  • 16.9 mm shorter body
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 is shorter than the average camera (57 mm vs 73.9 mm). The average camera has a height of 73.9 mm.
    What it is: The height of the camera body, measured from top to bottom.
    When it matters: When you care about how compact the camera feels in a bag or in hand.

    Importance: LOW

    Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 is shorter than the average camera (57 mm vs 73.9 mm). The average camera has a height of 73.9 mm.57 mm vs 73.9 mm
  • 21.9 mm narrower
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 is narrower than the average camera (98 mm vs 119.9 mm). The average camera has a width of 119.9 mm.
    What it is: The width of the camera body, measured from side to side.
    When it matters: When compact packing, grip comfort, or bag fit matters to you.

    Importance: LOW

    Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 is narrower than the average camera (98 mm vs 119.9 mm). The average camera has a width of 119.9 mm.98 mm vs 119.9 mm
  • 25 mm thinner
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 is thinner than the average camera (21 mm vs 46 mm). The average camera has a thickness of 46 mm.
    What it is: The depth of the device profile, excluding the camera bump unless specified.
    When it matters: When you prefer a sleek, slim profile that slides easily into tight pockets.

    Importance: LOW

    Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 is thinner than the average camera (21 mm vs 46 mm). The average camera has a thickness of 46 mm.21 mm vs 46 mm
  • 10x more popular
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 is more popular than the average camera (10.00 vs 1.000).
    What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the camera.
    When it matters: When you want to see which cameras attract the most buyer attention and review activity.
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 is more popular than the average camera (10.00 vs 1.000).10 vs 1
  • 9.3% higher user score
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 has a higher user score than the average camera (8.75 vs 8.000).
    What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the camera.
    When it matters: When real-world owner satisfaction and review volume matter to your decision.
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 has a higher user score than the average camera (8.75 vs 8.000).8.75 vs 8
  • 2.64x cheaper
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 is cheaper than the average camera (£110 vs £290).
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 is cheaper than the average camera (£110 vs £290).£110 vs £290
  • 71.6% lighter
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 is lighter than the average camera (112 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.
  • 21.9 mm narrower
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 is narrower than the average camera (98 mm vs 119.9 mm). The average camera has a width of 119.9 mm.
  • 16.9 mm shorter body
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 is shorter than the average camera (57 mm vs 73.9 mm). The average camera has a height of 73.9 mm.
  • 25 mm thinner
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 is thinner than the average camera (21 mm vs 46 mm). The average camera has a thickness of 46 mm.
  • 0.07 GB more storage
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 has a higher internal storage than the average camera (0.1 GB vs 0 GB). The average camera offers 0 GB of internal storage.

Total
Overall
Display & Design
Connectivity & Storage
  • 0.3 in smaller screen
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 has a smaller screen than the average camera (2.7 in vs 3 in). The average camera has a screen size of 3 in.
  • No hot shoe
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 does not have a hot shoe, the average camera does.
  • Smaller sensor
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 has a smaller sensor than the average camera (1/2.3" vs APS-C).
  • Lacks HDR mode
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 does not support HDR mode, the average camera does. 55.1% of cameras include HDR mode.
  • 1.92 µm smaller main-camera pixels
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 has a lower main camera pixel size than the average camera (1.4 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average camera has a main camera pixel size of 3.34 µm.
  • 2.1 MP lower resolution on the main camera
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 has a lower main camera resolution than the average camera (14.1 MP vs 16.2 MP). The average camera has a main camera resolution of 16.2 MP.
  • 4,800 lower max ISO
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 has a lower max ISO than the average camera (1,600 vs 6,400). The average camera reaches a max ISO of 6,400.
  • 18,900 lower expanded ISO
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 has a lower expanded ISO than the average camera (6,400 vs 25,300). The average camera reaches an expanded ISO of 25,300.
    High Sensitivity mode only.
  • 1 older
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 is older than the average camera (2012 vs 2013). The average camera was released in 2013.
    January 2012
  • 4.2 fps slower mechanical burst
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 has a slower mechanical burst rate than the average camera (1.5 fps vs 5.7 fps). The average camera shoots at 5.7 fps.
  • No RAW photo capture
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 does not support RAW photo capture, the average camera does. 62.8% of cameras support RAW formats.
  • No manual focus mode
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 does not support manual focus, the average camera does. 71.7% of cameras include a manual focus mode.
  • No manual exposure control
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 does not support manual exposure, the average camera does. 72% of cameras support manual exposure controls.
    No true manual exposure mode.
  • 22 s shorter maximum exposure
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 supports a shorter maximum exposure than the average camera (8 s vs 30 s). The average camera supports a longest shutter speed of 30 s.
  • No continuous video AF
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 does not support continuous autofocus in video, the average camera does.
  • 640 px lower video resolution
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 records lower-resolution video than the average camera (1,280 px vs 1920 px). The average camera records at 1920 px.
  • 1 fewer microphones
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 has fewer microphones than the average camera (1 vs 2). The average camera has 2 microphones.
  • 440 mAh smaller battery capacity
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 has a lower battery capacity than the average camera (680 mAh vs 1,120 mAh). The average camera has a battery capacity of 1,120 mAh.
  • 50 shots shorter battery life
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 has shorter battery life than the average camera (280 shots vs 330 shots). The average camera delivers 330 shots per charge.
  • No HDMI output
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 does not support HDMI output, the average camera does. 78.7% of cameras support HDMI output.
  • Smaller sensor
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 has a smaller sensor than the average camera (1/2.3" vs APS-C).
    What it is: The sensor format value describes the physical light-collecting area.
    When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: Full frame or larger

    Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 has a smaller sensor than the average camera (1/2.3" vs APS-C).1/2.3" vs APS-C
  • 4.2 fps slower mechanical burst
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 has a slower mechanical burst rate than the average camera (1.5 fps vs 5.7 fps). The average camera shoots at 5.7 fps.
    What it is: The maximum burst rate the camera can achieve using its mechanical shutter, measured in frames per second.
    When it matters: When you photograph sports, wildlife, or action and want more chances to catch the exact moment.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: At least 10 fps

    Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 has a slower mechanical burst rate than the average camera (1.5 fps vs 5.7 fps). The average camera shoots at 5.7 fps.1.5 fps vs 5.7 fps
  • 0.3 in smaller screen
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 has a smaller screen than the average camera (2.7 in vs 3 in). The average camera has a screen size of 3 in.
    What it is: The physical diagonal measurement of the display area, usually expressed in inches.
    When it matters: When you want a larger display for reviewing shots, using menus, or shooting from awkward angles.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: At least 3 in

    Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 has a smaller screen than the average camera (2.7 in vs 3 in). The average camera has a screen size of 3 in.2.7 in vs 3 in
  • Lacks HDR mode
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 does not support HDR mode, the average camera does. 55.1% of cameras include HDR mode.
    What it is: High Dynamic Range mode for photos, which combines multiple exposures to retain detail in both shadows and highlights.
    When it matters: When you take photos in high-contrast scenes, like a bright sky against a dark landscape.

    Importance: LOW

    Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 does not support HDR mode, the average camera does. 55.1% of cameras include HDR mode.
  • No continuous video AF
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 does not support continuous autofocus in video, the average camera does.
    What it is: The ability of the camera to keep adjusting focus automatically while video recording is in progress.
    When it matters: When you film while subjects or camera distance keep changing and manual refocusing is impractical.

    Importance: LOW

    Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 does not support continuous autofocus in video, the average camera does.
  • 1.92 µm smaller main-camera pixels
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 has a lower main camera pixel size than the average camera (1.4 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average camera has a main camera pixel size of 3.34 µm.
    What it is: The physical size of individual pixels on the camera sensor, measured in micrometers. Larger pixels typically capture more light for better low-light performance.
    When it matters: When you shoot in low light and want reduced noise in your photos.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: At least 3.5 µm

    Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 has a lower main camera pixel size than the average camera (1.4 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average camera has a main camera pixel size of 3.34 µm.1.42 µm vs 3.34 µm
  • No hot shoe
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 does not have a hot shoe, the average camera does.
    What it is: A mounting interface on top of the camera for attaching accessories such as flashes, triggers, or microphones.
    When it matters: When you want to mount an external flash, trigger, microphone, or other camera-top accessory.

    Importance: LOW

    Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 does not have a hot shoe, the average camera does.
  • 640 px lower video resolution
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 records lower-resolution video than the average camera (1,280 px vs 1920 px). The average camera records at 1920 px.
    What it is: The highest video resolution the camera can record, defining the maximum level of captured image detail.
    When it matters: When you care about recording the highest level of detail for cropping, editing, or future-proof video work.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: At least 3840 px

    Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2 records lower-resolution video than the average camera (1,280 px vs 1920 px). The average camera records at 1920 px.1280 px vs 1920 px
Total
Overall
Display & Design
Sensor & Image
Photo Features
Video & Audio
Battery & Power
Connectivity & Storage

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom
amazon
4.2
55 Reviews
amazon
4.7
7 Reviews
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.2
55 Reviews
Amazon_logo.png
3.8
17 Reviews

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

What customers like about Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2?

  • Compact and lightweight design makes it highly portable for travel and daily use
  • Integrated optical image stabilization (MEGA O.I.S.) helps capture clear shots in motion
  • Affordable entry-level pricing for those on a budget
  • Fast and accurate 'Sonic Speed' autofocus performance
  • Simple, intuitive interface suitable for beginners and novices
  • Vibrant color reproduction, especially in natural light

What customers dislike about Panasonic LUMIX DMC S2?

  • Limited battery life, typically rated for only around 280 shots
  • Small 1/2.33-inch CCD sensor can lead to lower image quality in challenging lighting
  • Lacks a dedicated video shutter button, making recording starts slower
  • No wireless connectivity (Wi-Fi/NFC) for easy photo sharing
  • Not 'tropicalized' or weather-sealed, making it vulnerable in adverse conditions
  • Lack of full manual controls and RAW format support for advanced users

Expert reviews

C
camerarace.com
01/09/2012
Panasonic Lumix DMC-S2 - Review and technical sheet - Camerarace

The CameraRace review rates the Panasonic Lumix DMC-S2 an entry-level compact with an iCamRank of 26, highlighting extreme portability with a weight of 112 grams and dimensions of 98 x 57 x 21 mm. Key advantages include a bright maximum aperture at full zoom, integrated MEGA O.I.S. for stabilization, and competitive speed performance in its class. Conversely, the camera suffers from...Read more

C
camerarace.com
09/01/2012
Panasonic Lumix DMC-S2 - Review and Specifications

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-S2 is a highly compact and lightweight 112-gram camera, praised by CameraRace for its exceptional portability and ease of handling for daily use. The review highlights the integrated Mega O.I.S. stabilizer and respectable speed performance (top 32% of its class) as key advantages. However, the camera suffers from significant drawbacks, including very poor...Read more

(Translated)Show original
R
reway.nl
12/01/2024
Lumix DMC-S2 Digital Compact Camera - Black (Boxed)

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-S2 is highlighted as an affordable, lightweight, and highly user-friendly compact digital camera tailored specifically for everyday basisfotografie. Key pros mentioned in the overview include its highly portable design, an automated interface ideal for beginners, a 14.1-megapixel CCD sensor, and a 4x optical zoom lens. Furthermore, its utility is boosted by...Read more

(Translated)Show original

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