Which Camera Is King Of The Long Zoom? Panasonic Fz2500 Vs Nikon P950 Put Head-to-head
What To Know
- The FZ2500 boasts a versatile Leica DC Vario-Elmarit lens with a focal length range of 25-600mm and a maximum aperture of f/2.
- The FZ2500 offers a smaller and lighter body, weather-resistant design, and a more comprehensive set of video features.
- The P950, on the other hand, boasts an extraordinary zoom range, built-in GPS, and a slightly higher resolution sensor.
In the realm of superzoom cameras, two giants stand tall: the Panasonic FZ2500 and the Nikon P950. These powerhouses offer an exceptional blend of versatility, performance, and features. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or just starting your journey, this comprehensive comparison will help you understand the strengths and weaknesses of each camera and make an informed decision.
Image Quality: Capturing Moments with Precision
Sensor Size and Resolution:
- Panasonic FZ2500: Equipped with a 1-inch MOS sensor and a resolution of 20.1 megapixels, the FZ2500 delivers sharp and detailed images.
- Nikon P950: Featuring a smaller 1/2.3-inch sensor but boasting a higher resolution of 24.2 megapixels, the P950 produces images with ample detail.
Low-Light Performance:
- Panasonic FZ2500: With a maximum ISO of 12800, the FZ2500 handles low-light conditions admirably, minimizing noise and preserving image quality.
- Nikon P950: Despite its smaller sensor, the P950 offers an impressive maximum ISO of 6400, enabling decent low-light performance.
Lens and Zoom Range: Exploring the Limits of Magnification
Focal Length and Aperture:
- Panasonic FZ2500: The FZ2500 boasts a versatile Leica DC Vario-Elmarit lens with a focal length range of 25-600mm and a maximum aperture of f/2.8-4.5.
- Nikon P950: The P950 astounds with its NIKKOR lens, providing an extraordinary focal length range of 24-2000mm and a maximum aperture of f/2.8-6.5.
Optical Zoom and Digital Zoom:
- Panasonic FZ2500: With a 24x optical zoom, the FZ2500 offers a substantial reach, while its digital zoom extends up to 48x.
- Nikon P950: The P950’s 83x optical zoom is simply breathtaking, allowing you to capture distant subjects with remarkable clarity. It also features a digital zoom of up to 166x.
Video Capabilities: Unleashing Your Inner Filmmaker
Video Resolution and Frame Rates:
- Panasonic FZ2500: The FZ2500 records 4K videos at 30 frames per second (fps) and Full HD videos at 60 fps, providing smooth and detailed footage.
- Nikon P950: The P950 captures 4K videos at 30 fps and Full HD videos at 60 fps, matching the FZ2500’s capabilities.
Video Features and Quality:
- Panasonic FZ2500: The FZ2500 offers a variety of video features, including manual focus, zebra patterns, and focus peaking, giving videographers more creative control.
- Nikon P950: While the P950 lacks some of the advanced video features found in the FZ2500, it still delivers solid video quality and basic manual controls.
Design and Handling: Comfort and Convenience in Your Hands
Weight and Dimensions:
- Panasonic FZ2500: Weighing approximately 1.2 pounds and measuring 5.1 x 3.6 x 4.5 inches, the FZ2500 is relatively compact and lightweight for a superzoom camera.
- Nikon P950: At 2.1 pounds and measuring 5.9 x 4.5 x 4.1 inches, the P950 is noticeably heavier and bulkier than the FZ2500.
Build Quality and Ergonomics:
- Panasonic FZ2500: The FZ2500 features a sturdy construction with a weather-resistant design, making it suitable for outdoor adventures. Its ergonomic grip ensures comfortable handling.
- Nikon P950: The P950 also boasts a durable build, but it lacks weather sealing. Its larger size provides a more substantial grip, catering to photographers with larger hands.
Connectivity and Sharing: Staying Connected on the Go
Wi-Fi and Bluetooth:
- Panasonic FZ2500: The FZ2500 comes equipped with both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, enabling wireless image transfer and remote control via a smartphone or tablet.
- Nikon P950: Similarly, the P950 offers Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, allowing for seamless sharing and remote camera control.
NFC and GPS:
- Panasonic FZ2500: The FZ2500 lacks NFC and GPS functionality.
- Nikon P950: The P950 includes NFC for easy pairing with compatible devices and built-in GPS for geotagging photos and videos.
Price and Availability: Making the Investment
Pricing:
- Panasonic FZ2500: The Panasonic FZ2500 is typically priced around $1,000.
- Nikon P950: The Nikon P950 is generally priced at around $1,200.
Availability:
- Panasonic FZ2500: The FZ2500 is widely available through online retailers and camera stores.
- Nikon P950: The P950 can also be found at various online and retail stores.
The Verdict: Choosing the Right Superzoom Camera for Your Needs
The Panasonic FZ2500 and Nikon P950 are both excellent superzoom cameras with their own strengths and weaknesses. The FZ2500 offers a smaller and lighter body, weather-resistant design, and a more comprehensive set of video features. The P950, on the other hand, boasts an extraordinary zoom range, built-in GPS, and a slightly higher resolution sensor.
Ultimately, the decision between the two depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize portability, video capabilities, and weather resistance, the Panasonic FZ2500 is a solid choice. If you value extreme zoom capabilities, GPS functionality, and a slightly higher resolution, the Nikon P950 is worth considering.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
1. Which camera has a longer zoom range?
The Nikon P950 has a significantly longer zoom range, extending from 24mm to 2000mm, compared to the Panasonic FZ2500’s 25mm to 600mm range.
2. Is one camera better for low-light photography?
The Panasonic FZ2500 has a slight advantage in low-light conditions due to its larger sensor and higher maximum ISO, resulting in reduced noise and better image quality.
3. Which camera is more suitable for video recording?
The Panasonic FZ2500 offers more advanced video features, such as manual focus, zebra patterns, and focus peaking, making it a better choice for videographers seeking greater creative control.
4. How do the cameras differ in terms of weight and size?
The Panasonic FZ2500 is lighter and more compact, weighing approximately 1.2 pounds compared to the Nikon P950’s 2.1 pounds. The FZ2500 also has smaller dimensions, making it easier to carry and handle.
5. Which camera has better connectivity options?
Both cameras offer Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, but the Nikon P950 additionally includes NFC and built-in GPS, providing more versatile connectivity options.
