Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF2C

Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF2C

More than any device in recent memory, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF2 is a showpiece for the benefits and drawbacks of a touchscreen interface. Although the camera's touchscreen UI introduces a few groundbreaking features to the compact interchangeable-lens camera category, it may leave you longing for old-fashioned analog controls more often than not. At heart, the Lumix DMC-GF2 ($700 as a kit with an optically stabilized 14-42mm/F3.5-5.6 lens or a 14mm/F2.5 prime lens; price as of May 16, 2011) is a souped-up successor to the groundbreaking Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1. The GF2 improves on the GF1's basic specs with a smaller, more streamlined body; higher-resolution, 1920-by-1080 60i video recording; higher ISO sensitivity (ISO 6400 versus ISO 3200); and compatibility with Panasonic's optional 3D conversion lens. The most noticeable new feature in the GF2 is its 3-inch touchscreen, which provides significant benefits while you're shooting stills and video. Namely, it lets you use touch-to-focus controls like the ones you'll find on many smartphones--a powerful, versatile feature in a camera with the GF2's bigger sensor and swappable lenses.