Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX36

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By Leonard Goh
Mar 19, 2008

Announced at the annual photo trade show PMA earlier this year, Panasonic's Lumix DMC-FX36 lets you capture more with an ultra-wide 25mm lens. This point-and-shoot not only delivers 10-megapixel images, it is also able to record video at 720p HD quality. Shutterbugs will like the new improved controls, given that switching between modes is less of a hassle now. If you travel frequently or take a lot of group shots, you might want to give this camera some consideration for its ultra wide-angle lens and HD video-recording capabilities.

Design

As with most succeeding models, the FX36 chassis was based on the Lumix DMC-FX33. It's no wonder that a non-discerning eye may not be able to tell the difference. On the front, there are no changes made. But looking at the top of the camera, you will spot the shutter button exhibiting a different finish. Compared with the FX33 which has a glossy-finish shutter, the shutter and power button on the FX36 are constructed from brushed metal, giving a more expensive touch.

Previous models rely on the top dial for switching between playback and shooting mode.
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The FX36 features a switch that lets you toggle between modes instead.
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We noticed the addition of a switch that toggles between playback and shooting. The top dial now rotates between normal shooting, iA, scene selection, video recording and clipboard mode. Unlike previous models, the dial on the FX36 doesn't turn 360 degrees but rather stops at the first and last function. This new interface provides a quicker way to switch between modes, without having to worry that we would turn the knob too much and activate a different function. We appreciate this layout because it allowed us to capture shots faster in our test.

On the back of the shooter, we found the same 2.5-inch LCD seen on the FX33. The four-directional button pad with the Menu button in the middle remains.

While its predecessor felt more ergonomic with its smooth-rounded edges, the FX36 took a different approach and features a slightly more boxy body. But this does not compromise on the grip, which feels sturdy. This could also be the effect from the slightly rubbery finish on the front face. At 22mm thin and 146g light, this shooter is slim enough not to leave a bulge or weigh you down.

We noticed an extended flap on the side of the FX36, used for hiding the additional component video-out port, on top of the DC-in and AV-out/digital. The component will have to be purchased separately, but is recommended for those planning to connect the camera to an HDTV for viewing HD-quality still images and movies.

The camera comes bundled with a strap, USB cable, A/V cable, rechargeable Lithium-ion battery, charger, operating instructions and ArcSoft photo-editing software.

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