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Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 Review | 108 Data compared

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  • Avg. price: ~£200
  • Sensor size: 1/2.3"
  • Lens mount: N/A
  • Main camera pixel size: 1.33 µm
  • Weight: 249 g
  • Battery life (CIPA): 350 shots

Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 review. Compare 108 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among cameras and if it is worth buying.

5.0

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%

4.6

Technical Score

10.0%

8.6

User score

Good
4.6

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%

4.7

Sensor & Image

25.0%

4.5

Photo Features

18.0%

3.8

Video & Audio

14.0%

5.3

Display & Design

8.0%

5.5

Battery & Power

7.0%

5.0

Connectivity & Storage

Poor
8.6

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%

8.0

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.0
(142)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.0
(147)

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

Excellent
  • 3.3
    Professional photography

    Score components:

    25.0%

    5.8

    Sensor size

    20.0%

    5.7

    Main camera megapixels

    20.0%

    1.0

    Dual card slots

    15.0%

    1.8

    N. of focus points

    10.0%

    1.0

    RAW photo capture

    10.0%

    1.0

    Phase-detection autofocus (photos)

  • 5.1
    Travel

    Score components:

    35.0%

    9.1

    Weight

    30.0%

    5.1

    Battery life (CIPA)

    20.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    15.0%

    1.0

    GPS

  • 7.8
    Beginners

    Score components:

    30.0%

    9.5

    Price

    20.0%

    9.1

    Weight

    20.0%

    10

    AF tracking

    20.0%

    5.1

    Battery life (CIPA)

    10.0%

    1.0

    Touchscreen

  • 3.7
    Landscape photography

    Score components:

    30.0%

    5.7

    Main camera megapixels

    25.0%

    5.8

    Sensor size

    20.0%

    1.3

    Main camera pixel size

    15.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    10.0%

    1.0

    RAW photo capture

  • 6.9
    Street photography

    Score components:

    30.0%

    9.1

    Weight

    25.0%

    9.3

    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%

    1.3

    Main camera pixel size

    20.0%

    1.0

    Eye detection AF (human)

    15.0%

    5.7

    Main camera megapixels

    10.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

  • 4.8
    Hiking

    Score components:

    30.0%

    9.1

    Weight

    25.0%

    5.1

    Battery life (CIPA)

    20.0%

    2.8

    Min operating temperature

    15.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    10.0%

    1.0

    GPS

  • panasonic-lumix-dmc-zs45
panasonic-lumix-dmc-zs45

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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-ZS45 is a compact travel zoom camera featuring a 16-megapixel 1/2.33-inch CMOS sensor paired with a powerful 20x optical zoom lens (24-480mm equivalent) and POWER O.I.S. for image stabilisation. Its standout characteristics include a 3-inch, 1.04-million dot tilting LCD screen that flips 180 degrees for self-portraits, built-in Wi-Fi for remote control and sharing, and Full HD 1080/30p video recording. Main pros include its highly portable 249g lightweight body, user-friendly interface with manual exposure modes (P/A/S/M), and a decent battery life of approximately 350 shots per charge. However, notable cons include the lack of RAW format support, limited low-light performance due to a maximum ISO of 3200 (6400 in high sensitivity mode) and f/3.3-6.4 aperture range, and the absence of a touchscreen or 4K video capability.

Technical Specifications of Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45

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%

4.7

Sensor & Image

25.0%

4.5

Photo Features

18.0%

3.8

Video & Audio

14.0%

5.3

Display & Design

8.0%

5.5

Battery & Power

7.0%

5.0

Connectivity & Storage

4.6
Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 has a technical score of 4.65 points, which is lower than 64.6% 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%

8.0

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.0
(142)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.0
(147)

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

8.6
Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 has a user score of 8.6 points, which is higher than 71.2% 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 ZS45 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%

5.0

Overall score

40.0%

9.5

Price

6.4
Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 has a quality-to-price ratio of 6.4 points, which is higher than 59.6% 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 ZS45 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

16.1 MP
Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 has a main camera resolution of 16.1 MP, which is lower than that of 53.1% of cameras and equal to that of 7.9% 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

1.33 µm
Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 has a main camera pixel size of 1.33 µm which is smaller than in 88.2% of cameras and equal to the size in 3.6% 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 ZS45 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

3,200
Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 reaches a maximum sensitivity of ISO 3,200, which is lower than that of 62.8% of cameras and equal to that of 22.7% of cameras.
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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 ZS45 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

21
Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 has 21 focus points, fewer than the number offered by 55.5% of cameras and equal to the number offered by 0.2% 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 ZS45 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 ZS45 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

1920 px
Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 supports 1920 px video recording which is higher quality than that of 28.7% of cameras and equal to that of 47.1% 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

20 Mbps
Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 has a video bitrate of 20 Mbps which is lower than that of 70.7% of cameras and equal to that of 3.9% of cameras.
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 ZS45 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 ZS45 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

H.264
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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

249 g
Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 weighs 249 g which is lighter than 68.6% of cameras and equal to the weight of 0.1% 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

108 mm
Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 has a width of 108 mm which is narrower than 69.7% of cameras and equal to that of 1.1% 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

60 mm
Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 has a height of 60 mm which is shorter than 78.1% of cameras and equal to that of 1.4% 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

32 mm
Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 has a thickness of 32 mm which is thinner than 73.6% of cameras and equal to that of 0.9% of cameras.
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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

350 shots
Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 has a CIPA-rated battery life of 350 shots, which is longer than that of 54.5% of cameras and equal to that of 5% 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

1,250 mAh
Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 has a battery capacity of 1,250 mAh which is larger than the batteries in 60.4% of cameras and equal to those in 3.9% 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 ZS45 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 ZS45 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

yes
Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 supports Wi-Fi. This feature is available on 47.8% of cameras.
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

Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n)
Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 uses Wi-Fi version Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n) which is newer than that of 54.2% of cameras and equal to that of 35.6% of cameras.
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 ZS45 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 ZS45 does not include USB Type-C. 14.6% of cameras use USB-C.
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Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 vs the average camera

  • 4.3 fps faster mechanical burst
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 has a faster mechanical burst rate than the average camera (10 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 ZS45 has a faster mechanical burst rate than the average camera (10 fps vs 5.7 fps). The average camera shoots at 5.7 fps.10 fps vs 5.7 fps
  • Supports Wi-Fi connectivity
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 supports Wi-Fi, the average camera does not. 47.8% of cameras support Wi-Fi.
    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

    Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 supports Wi-Fi, the average camera does not. 47.8% of cameras support Wi-Fi.
  • Smartphone remote control
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 supports smartphone remote control, the average camera does not. 46.2% of cameras support smartphone remote control.
    via Panasonic Image App
    What it is: The ability to control the camera remotely from a smartphone app for shooting, settings, or file transfer.
    When it matters: When you shoot remotely, transfer files on location, or want to control the camera without touching it.

    Importance: LOW

    Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 supports smartphone remote control, the average camera does not. 46.2% of cameras support smartphone remote control.
  • Built-in timelapse
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 includes timelapse capture, the average camera does not.
    What it is: A mode that captures frames at set intervals so long events can be played back as accelerated video.
    When it matters: When you want to show long processes like sunsets, clouds, or city movement in a short finished clip.

    Importance: LOW

    Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 includes timelapse capture, the average camera does not.
  • 0.08 GB more storage
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 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 ZS45 has a higher internal storage than the average camera (0.1 GB vs 0 GB). The average camera offers 0 GB of internal storage.0.078 GB vs 0 GB
  • 37% lighter
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 is lighter than the average camera (249 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 ZS45 is lighter than the average camera (249 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.249 g vs 395 g
  • 10x more popular
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 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 ZS45 is more popular than the average camera (10.00 vs 1.000).10 vs 1
  • 13.9 mm shorter body
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 is shorter than the average camera (60 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 ZS45 is shorter than the average camera (60 mm vs 73.9 mm). The average camera has a height of 73.9 mm.60 mm vs 73.9 mm
  • 37% lighter
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 is lighter than the average camera (249 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.
  • 13.9 mm shorter body
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 is shorter than the average camera (60 mm vs 73.9 mm). The average camera has a height of 73.9 mm.
  • 14 mm thinner
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 is thinner than the average camera (32 mm vs 46 mm). The average camera has a thickness of 46 mm.
  • 11.9 mm narrower
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 is narrower than the average camera (108 mm vs 119.9 mm). The average camera has a width of 119.9 mm.
  • 2 newer
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 is newer than the average camera (2015 vs 2013). The average camera was released in 2013.
  • 4.3 fps faster mechanical burst
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 has a faster mechanical burst rate than the average camera (10 fps vs 5.7 fps). The average camera shoots at 5.7 fps.
  • Built-in timelapse
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 includes timelapse capture, the average camera does not.
  • 130 mAh larger battery capacity
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 has a higher battery capacity than the average camera (1,250 mAh vs 1,120 mAh). The average camera has a battery capacity of 1,120 mAh.
  • Supports Wi-Fi connectivity
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 supports Wi-Fi, the average camera does not. 47.8% of cameras support Wi-Fi.
  • Smartphone remote control
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 supports smartphone remote control, the average camera does not. 46.2% of cameras support smartphone remote control.
  • 0.08 GB more storage
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 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
Sensor & Image
Photo Features
Video & Audio
Battery & Power
Connectivity & Storage
  • No hot shoe
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 does not have a hot shoe, the average camera does.
  • Smaller sensor
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 has a smaller sensor than the average camera (1/2.3" vs APS-C).
  • 2.01 µm smaller main-camera pixels
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 has a lower main camera pixel size than the average camera (1.3 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average camera has a main camera pixel size of 3.34 µm.
  • 18,900 lower expanded ISO
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 has a lower expanded ISO than the average camera (6,400 vs 25,300). The average camera reaches an expanded ISO of 25,300.
  • 3,200 lower max ISO
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 has a lower max ISO than the average camera (3,200 vs 6,400). The average camera reaches a max ISO of 6,400.
  • 0.1 MP lower resolution on the main camera
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 has a lower main camera resolution than the average camera (16.1 MP vs 16.2 MP). The average camera has a main camera resolution of 16.2 MP.
  • No RAW photo capture
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 does not support RAW photo capture, the average camera does. 62.8% of cameras support RAW formats.
  • No manual focus mode
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 does not support manual focus, the average camera does. 71.7% of cameras include a manual focus mode.
  • 26 s shorter maximum exposure
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 supports a shorter maximum exposure than the average camera (4 s vs 30 s). The average camera supports a longest shutter speed of 30 s.
  • 1 fewer microphones
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 has fewer microphones than the average camera (1 vs 2). The average camera has 2 microphones.
  • 33.3% lower video bitrate
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 has a lower video bitrate than the average camera (20 Mbps vs 30 Mbps). The average camera records at 30 Mbps.
  • Older HDMI version
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 uses HDMI 1.3, while the average camera uses HDMI 1.4.
  • Smaller sensor
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 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 ZS45 has a smaller sensor than the average camera (1/2.3" vs APS-C).1/2.3" vs APS-C
  • 2.01 µm smaller main-camera pixels
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 has a lower main camera pixel size than the average camera (1.3 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 ZS45 has a lower main camera pixel size than the average camera (1.3 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average camera has a main camera pixel size of 3.34 µm.1.33 µm vs 3.34 µm
  • No hot shoe
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 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 ZS45 does not have a hot shoe, the average camera does.
  • 1 fewer microphones
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 has fewer microphones than the average camera (1 vs 2). The average camera has 2 microphones.
    What it is: The number of built-in microphones used to capture audio while recording video.
    When it matters: More built-in microphones can capture broader, clearer sound when you record without an external microphone.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: At least 2 microphones

    Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 has fewer microphones than the average camera (1 vs 2). The average camera has 2 microphones.1 vs 2
  • No RAW photo capture
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 does not support RAW photo capture, the average camera does. 62.8% of cameras support RAW formats.
    What it is: The ability to save images in an uncompressed RAW format, preserving all sensor data for advanced post-processing.
    When it matters: When you plan to edit your photos professionally and need the most data possible.

    Importance: LOW

    Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 does not support RAW photo capture, the average camera does. 62.8% of cameras support RAW formats.
  • 18,900 lower expanded ISO
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 has a lower expanded ISO than the average camera (6,400 vs 25,300). The average camera reaches an expanded ISO of 25,300.
    What it is: The highest extended ISO setting available beyond the standard sensitivity range of the sensor.
    When it matters: When you shoot in very dark conditions and want the option to push sensitivity beyond the normal ISO range.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 has a lower expanded ISO than the average camera (6,400 vs 25,300). The average camera reaches an expanded ISO of 25,300.6,400 vs 25,300
  • No manual focus mode
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 does not support manual focus, the average camera does. 71.7% of cameras include a manual focus mode.
    What it is: A pro mode feature that allows the user to manually adjust the focus distance using a slider.
    When it matters: When the autofocus struggles or you want a specific creative artistic effect.

    Importance: LOW

    Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 does not support manual focus, the average camera does. 71.7% of cameras include a manual focus mode.
  • 3,200 lower max ISO
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 has a lower max ISO than the average camera (3,200 vs 6,400). The average camera reaches a max ISO of 6,400.
    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

    Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 has a lower max ISO than the average camera (3,200 vs 6,400). The average camera reaches a max ISO of 6,400.3,200 vs 6,400
Total
Display & Design
Sensor & Image
Photo Features
Video & Audio
Connectivity & Storage

Graphic comparison of Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45 and

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom
amazon
4.0
142 Reviews
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.0
147 Reviews

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

What customers like about Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45?

  • Compact and lightweight pocket-sized body convenient for travel
  • Powerful 20x optical zoom lens with effective optical image stabilization
  • Flip-up 180-degree tilting LCD screen ideal for selfies and vlogging
  • Built-in Wi-Fi functionality for quick image sharing and remote control
  • Excellent battery life yielding up to 350 shots per single charge
  • Fast startup speed and responsive 10 fps burst shooting performance
  • Good daylight photo quality with punchy colors and bright details
  • Fun automatic features like wink-activated shutter and soft skin filters

What customers dislike about Panasonic LUMIX DMC ZS45?

  • Lackluster video performance that produces soft footage in 1080p
  • No RAW shooting capability, limiting exposure recovery and post-processing
  • Small 1/2.33-inch image sensor that struggles significantly in low-light environments
  • Autofocus mechanism tends to hunt or lose tracking while recording video
  • Lacks an eye-level electronic viewfinder, making the screen hard to read in bright sunlight
  • No touch-screen interface functionality despite the tilting monitor design
  • The camera cannot record video and charge its battery simultaneously
  • Lacks any environmental weather sealing against dust and moisture protection
  • Highly sensitive, peaky internal microphone that easily picks up unwanted ambient noise

Expert reviews

T
tomsguide.com
07/04/2015
Panasonic Lumix ZS45 Camera Review: Powerful Pocket Zoom

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS45 is a compact, 16-megapixel point-and-shoot camera priced at $250, designed primarily for budget-conscious travelers and beginners looking for manual control. The camera's standout feature is its powerful 20x optical zoom lens (24-480mm equivalent), which delivers impressively sharp, clear images of distant subjects even without a tripod, thanks to...Read more

T
techradar.com
30/03/2015
Panasonic TZ57 (ZS45) review | TechRadar

The Panasonic Lumix TZ57 (also known as the ZS45) is a well-rounded and affordable pocket-sized camera tailored for travel photographers looking for full manual control. It features a 16-megapixel MOS sensor paired with a 20x optical zoom lens, offering a versatile 28-560mm equivalent focal length range. While the body feels robust and premium, it is notably heavy and chunky...Read more

E
ephotozine.com
26/01/2015
Panasonic Lumix TZ57 Review

The Panasonic Lumix TZ57 is a versatile travel zoom compact featuring a 16-megapixel MOS sensor, a 20x optical zoom lens (24-480mm), and a 3-inch 180-degree tilting LCD screen designed for selfies. The camera is praised for its ergonomic grip, fast 10fps shooting, integrated Wi-Fi with QR connectivity, and versatile shooting modes, including full manual control. Limitations noted in...Read more

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