If you’re looking for a compact camera that delivers DSLR-level image quality without the bulk, the Panasonic LX100 III might just be the hidden gem you’ve been waiting for. With a large Micro Four Thirds sensor, fast Leica lens, and full manual controls packed into a sleek body, this camera is made for creators who move light but think big. In this video, we’re breaking down its performance, photo and video quality, and whether it’s worth the upgrade let’s dive in!
Pros
- Large Micro Four Thirds sensor
Fast Leica f/1.7–2.8 lens
Manual dials for pro control
4K video with 4K Photo mode
Compact, travel-friendly design
Cons
- No mic input or headphone jack
Screen isn’t fully articulating
No weather sealing
Slightly higher price for a compact
No built-in flash
1 Panasonic LX100 III
The Panasonic LX100 III continues the legacy of a compact camera that punches way above its size. It blends pro-level features with pocketable design, and this third iteration brings some much-needed upgrades while keeping the essence of what made the LX100 series special in the first place.
At the heart of the LX100 III is a large 17MP Micro Four Thirds sensor, offering significantly better image quality than typical point-and-shoots. Paired with Panasonic’s fast f/1.7–2.8 Leica DC Vario-Summilux lens, the combo delivers rich detail, shallow depth of field, and excellent low-light performance for a compact camera.
One of the biggest highlights is the manual control layout. With dedicated dials for shutter speed, aperture, and exposure compensation, the LX100 III gives a tactile, DSLR-like experience in a body that fits in your jacket pocket. It’s a dream for street photographers who want full control without bulk.
The viewfinder and screen have also been upgraded. The EVF is sharp and responsive, while the 3-inch touchscreen now supports full touch functionality, making it easier to focus, review, and navigate menus. While it’s not fully articulating, the tilt screen is still handy for waist-level or overhead shots.
In terms of video, the LX100 III supports 4K at 30fps, which is perfect for casual vloggers or creators on the go. It also includes Panasonic’s 4K Photo Mode, allowing you to extract 8MP stills from video a useful feature for fast-paced action or unpredictable subjects.
Battery life is decent, and the USB charging makes it more travel-friendly than ever. However, it’s worth noting there’s no mic input or headphone jack, which might be a deal-breaker for serious video shooters. But for photography-first users, it’s a fair tradeoff for the compact size.
All in all, the Panasonic LX100 III is a powerhouse compact camera built for creators who value image quality, manual controls, and portability. It’s not trying to be flashy it’s focused, functional, and made for those who know what they want in a street or travel camera.
Key Features
- Multi-aspect ratio 17mp Four Thirds Sensor (21.7mp total pixels), 1.33inch
- 24-75mm equivalent f/1.7-2.8 Leica lens, 9 aperture blades
- Power Optical Image Stabilisation (OIS)
- 3inch, 1240K dot touch-screen
- EVF, 2760K dot, 0.73x magnification, eye-detection
- Aperture / Shutter control dials
- Exposure compensation dial (+/-3)
- Manual Focus Assist / Focus Peaking
- 4K video recording, 4K photo priority mode (30fps)
- Wi-Fi / Bluetooth built-in
- 11fps continuous shooting (max 33 images raw)
- Dual-axis electronic level
- 3cm macro focus
- 22 filters, L. Monochrome, L. Monochrome D
- USB charging