Panasonic Dc-fz82 Vs Nikon Coolpix B500: Which Camera Is Worth Your Money?

In the realm of photography, superzoom cameras stand out with their exceptional versatility, allowing photographers to capture stunning images from a wide range of distances. Two prominent contenders in this category are the Panasonic DC-FZ82 and the Nikon Coolpix B500. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key features, strengths, and weaknesses of these two superzoom powerhouses, helping you make an informed decision about which one suits your photographic needs and preferences.

Image Quality: Resolving the Details

Resolution and Sensor Size

The Panasonic DC-FZ82 boasts a 1/2.3-inch MOS sensor with an effective resolution of 18.1 megapixels, while the Nikon Coolpix B500 features a slightly larger 1/2.3-inch CCD sensor with an effective resolution of 16 megapixels. While both cameras offer respectable resolutions, the DC-FZ82’s higher megapixel count may provide a slight edge in terms of capturing finer details.

Image Processing and Noise Performance

Both the DC-FZ82 and the B500 utilize advanced image processing engines to optimize image quality. The DC-FZ82 employs Panasonic‘s Venus Engine, known for its effective noise reduction capabilities, while the B500 relies on Nikon’s EXPEED C2 engine, which excels in color reproduction and dynamic range. In low-light conditions, the DC-FZ82’s higher resolution sensor may exhibit slightly more noise compared to the B500’s larger sensor.

Lens Performance: Exploring Focal Length and Aperture

Focal Length and Zoom Range

The Panasonic DC-FZ82 and Nikon Coolpix B500 both offer impressive zoom capabilities, making them ideal for capturing distant subjects. The DC-FZ82 features a Leica DC Vario-Elmarit lens with a focal length range of 20-1200mm (35mm equivalent), while the B500 boasts a NIKKOR lens with a focal length range of 22.5-900mm (35mm equivalent). Both cameras provide excellent versatility for capturing wide-angle landscapes to distant wildlife.

Aperture Range and Low-Light Performance

The DC-FZ82 has a maximum aperture of f/2.8-5.9, while the B500 offers a maximum aperture of f/3.0-6.5. A wider maximum aperture allows more light to reach the sensor, resulting in better low-light performance and shallower depth of field control. In this aspect, the B500’s slightly wider maximum aperture may provide an advantage in dim lighting conditions.

Design and Handling: Ergonomics and Convenience

Body Design and Build Quality

The Panasonic DC-FZ82 and Nikon Coolpix B500 differ in their physical design and build quality. The DC-FZ82 features a compact and lightweight body, making it easy to carry around. Its textured grip ensures a secure hold, and the dedicated control dials provide quick access to essential settings. The B500, on the other hand, has a larger and heavier body, offering a more substantial grip. Its control layout is similar to traditional DSLRs, providing familiar handling for experienced photographers.

Electronic Viewfinder and LCD Screen

Both cameras feature electronic viewfinders (EVFs) for composing shots and reviewing images. The DC-FZ82’s EVF has a resolution of 1.166 million dots, while the B500’s EVF offers a slightly higher resolution of 921,000 dots. Both EVFs provide adequate clarity and detail, although the B500’s higher resolution may offer a marginally better viewing experience.

The DC-FZ82 and B500 also have LCD screens for live view shooting and image playback. The DC-FZ82’s LCD screen is a 3-inch fixed TFT LCD with a resolution of 460,000 dots, while the B500’s LCD screen is a 3-inch vari-angle TFT LCD with a resolution of 921,000 dots. The B500’s vari-angle LCD screen provides greater flexibility for shooting from different angles, making it particularly useful for overhead or low-angle shots.

Features and Functionality: Exploring Creative Options

Shooting Modes and Scene Modes

The Panasonic DC-FZ82 and Nikon Coolpix B500 offer a variety of shooting modes and scene modes to cater to different shooting scenarios. Both cameras have automatic, manual, and semi-automatic shooting modes, allowing photographers to exercise varying levels of control over their images. They also feature a range of scene modes, such as portrait, landscape, and macro, which optimize camera settings for specific subjects or situations.

Video Recording Capabilities

Both the DC-FZ82 and the B500 can record Full HD (1920 x 1080) videos at 60 frames per second (fps). They also offer slow-motion and time-lapse video recording options, allowing photographers to capture creative and dynamic moving images.

Connectivity and Sharing: Staying Connected

Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Connectivity

The Panasonic DC-FZ82 and Nikon Coolpix B500 both feature built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, enabling wireless image transfer and remote camera control. With the dedicated smartphone apps, photographers can easily share images and videos on social media platforms or transfer them to their smartphones or tablets for editing and storage.

Battery Life: Powering Your Shots

Battery Capacity and Life

The Panasonic DC-FZ82 is powered by a DMW-BLC12 rechargeable lithium-ion battery, which provides approximately 330 shots per charge. The Nikon Coolpix B500, on the other hand, uses four AA batteries, which offer approximately 600 shots per charge. While the B500’s battery life may seem impressive, it is important to consider the cost and inconvenience of replacing disposable batteries regularly.

Wrap-Up: Unveiling the Superior Superzoom Contender

After a thorough comparison of the Panasonic DC-FZ82 and Nikon Coolpix B500, it becomes evident that both cameras offer distinct advantages and cater to different photographic needs. The DC-FZ82 excels in image quality, thanks to its higher resolution sensor and effective noise reduction capabilities. It also boasts a compact and lightweight design, making it easy to carry around. On the other hand, the B500 offers a slightly wider maximum aperture, providing better low-light performance and shallower depth of field control. It also features a larger and higher-resolution vari-angle LCD screen, which provides greater flexibility for shooting from different angles.

Ultimately, the choice between the Panasonic DC-FZ82 and Nikon Coolpix B500 depends on your individual preferences and shooting requirements. If you prioritize image quality, compactness, and ease of use, the DC-FZ82 may be a better choice. However, if you value low-light performance, a larger and more versatile LCD screen, and longer battery life, the B500 might be a more suitable option.

Top Questions Asked

Q1: Which camera has a longer zoom range?

Both cameras offer impressive zoom capabilities, but the Panasonic DC-FZ82 has a slightly longer zoom range, with a focal length range of 20-1200mm (35mm equivalent) compared to the Nikon Coolpix B500’s 22.5-900mm (35mm equivalent).

Q2: Which camera has better image quality?

The Panasonic DC-FZ82 generally produces better image quality, thanks to its higher resolution sensor and effective noise reduction capabilities. However, the Nikon Coolpix B500 may perform better in low-light conditions due to its slightly wider maximum aperture.

Q3: Which camera is more compact and lightweight?

The Panasonic DC-FZ82 is more compact and lightweight than the Nikon Coolpix B500, making it easier to carry around and handle.

Q4: Which camera has a longer battery life?

The Nikon Coolpix B500 has a longer battery life than the Panasonic DC-FZ82, offering approximately 600 shots per charge compared to the DC-FZ82’s 330 shots per charge. However, it’s important to consider the cost and inconvenience of replacing disposable batteries regularly with the B500.

Q5: Which camera is better for low-light photography?

The Nikon Coolpix B500 may perform better in low-light conditions due to its slightly wider maximum aperture, which allows more light to reach the sensor.