Panasonic Lumix DMC-TS3 12.1 MP Rugged/Waterproof Digital Camera with 4.6x Wide Angle Optical Image Stabilized Zoom and 2.7-Inch LCD (Silver)
Compatible Mountings | Micro Four Thirds |
Aspect Ratio | 16:9 |
Photo Sensor Technology | CCD |
Supported File Format | AVCHD |
Image Stabilization | Optical |
Maximum Focal Length | 28 Millimeters |
Optical Zoom | 4.6 |
Expanded ISO Minimum | 100 |
Brand | Panasonic |
Model Name | Lumix TS3 |
About this item
- 4 Active Outdoor Scene Modes: The DMC-TS3 has 4 active outdoor Scene Modes - Sports, Snow, Beach & Snorkeling and Underwater
- LEICA DC Lens with Folded Optics Technology: The DMC-TS3 features a high-quality LEICA DC VARIO-ELMAR 28mm wide-angle lens with a 4.6x optical zoom
- 28mm Wide-angle Lens: The 28mm wide-angle lens lets you easily capture large groups of people indoors
- Newly Developed 12.1-megapixel Hi-speed CCD: The newly developed 12.1-megapixel CCD with 2-channel signal output structure
- Sonic Speed AF: The Sonic Speed AF system includes numerous re-engineering enhancements
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Price | $259.99$259.99 | -9% $499.99$499.99 List: $549.99 | $399.00$399.00 | $534.95$534.95 | $619.95$619.95 | $489.00$489.00 |
Delivery | — | Get it as soon as Monday, May 20 | Get it May 21 - 29 | — | Get it as soon as Tomorrow, May 15 | — |
Customer Ratings | ||||||
Sold By | HDD Shop | Amazon.com | Wall Street Photo Authorized Seller | Web Offers | Electronics Basket | Adorama |
display type | LCD | LCD | LCD | — | LCD | LCD |
display size | 2.7 inches | 3 inches | 2.5 inches | 3 inches | — | 3 inches |
lens type | zoom | Macro | Zoom, Wide Angle | — | — | Macro |
zoom type | Optical Zoom | Optical Zoom | Optical Zoom, Digital Zoom | Optical Zoom | Optical Zoom | Optical Zoom |
shooting modes | Sports | Movie, Auto, Manual | Scene | Underwater | Underwater | Movie, Auto, Manual |
connectivity tech | USB | Wi-Fi, Micro HDMI, Micro USB, Bluetooth | USB | Wi-Fi | USB | Wi-Fi |
video resolution | 1080p | 2160p | 848 x 480 (30 fps), 640 x 480 (30 fps), 320 x 240 (30 fps) | 2160p | — | 4K UHD 2160p, 2K DCI 1080p |
optical zoom | — | 4 multiplier x | — | 4 multiplier x | — | 4 multiplier x |
wireless tech | gps | Wi-Fi | ✓ | Wi-Fi, GPS | Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi |
model name | Lumix TS3 | Tough TG-7 | FX48 Silver | Tg 6 | V104210RU000 | Tough TG-6 |
form factor | Compact | Ultracompact | Compact | Compact | Compact | Ultracompact |
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Product information
Auto Focus Technology | Multi area, Contrast Detection, sensor |
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Aspect Ratio | 16:9 |
Photo Sensor Technology | CCD |
Effective Still Resolution | 12.1 MP |
Maximum Webcam Image Resolution | 12.1 MP |
Frame Rate | 30 FPS |
White balance settings | Auto |
Image Stabilization | Optical |
Video Capture Format | AVCHD |
Video Capture Resolution | 1080p |
Video Standard | mpeg |
Viewfinder Type | fixed LCD |
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Screen Size | 2.7 Inches |
Display Type | LCD |
Display Fixture Type | fixed |
Model Name | Lumix TS3 |
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Brand | Panasonic |
Model Number | DMC-TS3S |
Customer Reviews |
4.2 out of 5 stars |
Best Sellers Rank | #798,483 in Electronics (See Top 100 in Electronics) #2,141 in Underwater Photography Products #5,896 in Digital Point & Shoot Cameras |
ASIN | B004KKZ0J2 |
Number of Items | 1 |
Color | Silver |
Included Components | Remote, USB Cable |
Assembly Required | No |
Item Dimensions LxWxH | 1 x 4.1 x 2.5 inches |
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Item Weight | 0.31 Pounds |
Warranty & Support
Feedback
Lens Type | zoom |
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Optical Zoom | 4.6 |
Digital Zoom | 18.4 x |
Zoom Type | Optical Zoom |
Autofocus Points | 23 |
Compatible Mountings | Micro Four Thirds |
Focus Type | Auto Focus |
Maximum Focal Length | 28 Millimeters |
Expanded ISO Maximum | 1600 |
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Expanded ISO Minimum | 100 |
Max Shutter Speed | 8 seconds |
Exposure Control Type | Automatic |
Shooting Modes | Sports |
Batteries Required? | No |
---|---|
Number of Batteries | 1 Lithium Ion batteries required. |
Are Batteries Included | No |
Rechargeable Battery Included | No |
Battery Cell Composition | Lithium Ion |
Battery Weight | 1 Grams |
Battery Life | 310 Photos |
Removable Memory | Secure Digital Card |
Digital Scene Transition | zoom |
Connectivity Technology | USB |
Continuous Shooting Speed | 3.7 |
Wireless Communication Technology | gps |
Flash Memory Type | SD, SDHC, SDXC |
Memory Storage Capacity | 19 MB |
Special Feature | Image Stabilization |
Water Resistance Level | Waterproof |
Skill Level | Professional |
Specific Uses For Product | Outdoor activities, Sports, Underwater photography |
Water Resistance Depth | 40 Feet |
Form Factor | Compact |
Hardware Interface | USB, HDMI, SDHC, SDXC |
Audio Recording | Yes |
Audio Output Type | internal |
Photo Sensor Technology | CCD |
Product Description
From the Manufacturer
Panasonic's Lumix DMC-TS3, specifically designed for active users who want to capture high-quality photos and 1920 x 1080 full-High Definition videos, incorporating a powerful rugged design and new outdoor-friendly features, such as a built-in GPS function, a compass, altimeter and barometer. The new 12.1-megapixel Lumix TS3 further strengthens its toughness, when compared to its Lumix TS2 predecessor, and is now waterproof to approximately 40 feet (12m); shockproof to approximately 6.6 feet (2m); freezeproof to 14ºF (-10 degrees C); and dustproof.
The Panasonic Lumix TS3 also features the new Panasonic 3D Photo mode, which produces a realistic 3D photo by taking 20 consecutive photos and overlays the two best to create a 3D image that can then be played on a Panasonic VIERA 3D HDTV. The format of 3D images is compatible with MPO, and can also be played back on other MPO-compatible equipment such as a televisions, digital photo frames and printers. Panasonic also adds the Lumix Image Uploader, for seamless and instant sharing via Facebook (for digital photos) or YouTube (for videos). Users can checkmark the photo or video files they want to share, connect it to a PC with the included USB cable or by inserting the SD Memory Card directly into the PC's SD Card slot, and then the uploading automatically launches with an easy-to-follow menu option.
The Panasonic Lumix TS3 features a 28mm wide-angle Leica DC Vario-Elmar lens, complete with a folded optics design. With an optical zoom up to 4.6x, the Lumix TS3 works even while shooting video--giving the user the flexibility for a variety of different scenes--especially underwater, where movement is often restricted and the angle of view becomes important for composing shots. Thanks to the newly incorporated Intelligent Resolution technology, the Intelligent Zoom is available and extends the zoom to 6x equivalent.
Empowered by a newly developed 12.1-megapixel Hi-Speed CCD sensor, the Lumix TS3 is compatible with high-speed, large-capacity signal processing required for 1920 x 1080 full-HD AVCHD video recording and high speed continuous shooting. The advanced image processor, the Venus Engine FHD, powers Panasonic's Intelligent Resolution and the Sonic Speed AF, allows for a shutter release time lag as short as approximately 0.005 second. Beyond full-HD video recording capabilities, Lumix TS3 excels in shooting videos with a Dolby Digital Creator so audio quality is also high. The built-in LED light greatly supports shooting in dark situations. The Lumix TS3 also features a 2.7-inch, 230,000-dot Intelligent LCD screen with wide-viewing angle and Anti-Reflection coating.
Panasonic's iA Mode, a suite of technologies that engage automatically, has evolved for more powerful image stabilization while video recording and taking still photos with Active Mode which boosts POWER OIS to excel in suppressing blur when recording videos at wide angle while walking. Other features of iA include: POWER OIS, Face Recognition, Face Detection, AF Tracking, Intelligent ISO Control, Intelligent Scene Selector and Intelligent Exposure. With iA, taking beautiful photos is possible for users at any skill level. In addition, the Intelligent Resolution technology is always activated in the iA mode, which helps produce even clearer photos by precisely performing signal processing pixel by pixel to help ensure clear and sharp images.
The newly-integrated GPS function shows the name of the Country/Region, State/Prov./County, County/Township, City/Town/Village and Landmark by using the internal data to give users details on where the photos or videos were taken. The area information covers 203 countries or regions for global users. Plus, more than 1,000,000 landmarks over 78 countries or regions are in the database. Using the included software PHOTOfunSTUDIO 6.1 HD Lite Edition, photos and videos can be searched by location and names. The Lumix TS3 also features an internal clock that automatically adjusts to the local time when GPS is enabled--a handy feature for travelers.
Panasonic Lumix TS3 Highlights
3D Photo Mode
The newly added 3D Photo Mode* produces a 3D image in the camera. The image-processing method used by LUMIX records beautiful images with less distortion or visible image links. Take 20 panning shots and the camera automatically selects the two most suitable images--one for the right eye and one for the left eye--to synthesize a 3D composite.
The 3D image can be viewed on a VIERA HDTV. The 3D image format is compatible with MPO, so it can be played back on other MPO-compatible equipment such as TVs and digital photo frames, or printed.
*The picture size is fixed to 2-megapixel (16:9)
3D Image Viewer/VIERA Link
Photos or movies recorded in AVCHD on the SD/SDHC/SDXC Memory Cards are easy to view on a Panasonic VIERA TV. Simply insert the card into the VIERA Image Viewer (SD/SDHC/SDXC Memory Card slot) on VIERA TV or DIGA Blu-ray Disc Player to playback your contents. Alternatively, you can use an optional HDMI micro cable to output the still and motion images you took from the DMC-TS3 directly to the TV for VIERA Link. Most of the control is possible using only the TV's remote control.
Leica DC Lens
The DMC-TS3 features a high-quality LEICA DC VARIO-ELMAR 28mm wide-angle lens with a 4.6x optical zoom (35mm camera equivalent: 28-128mm). The folded optics of shaft guide method is adopted to secure the toughness of the lens unit. This lens unit comprises 10 elements and a prism unit in 8 groups, including an ED lens and 5 aspherical lenses with 6 aspherical surfaces passing the Leica's stringent standards to deliver exceptional optical performance to the edges.
The DMC-TS3 is drop proof from a height up to 2.0m in accordance with the "MIL-STD 810F Method516.5-Shock" test standard. In addition to reinforcing the exterior of the camera with shock-resistant material, the DMC-TS3 uses folded optics to prevent its lens unit from taking damage when dropped during operation. The lens unit is protected by a supplementary damper to absorb the force from shock impact. All components including the lens unit are reexamined to endure the temperature as low as -10 degrees C to make the DMC-TS3 freezeproof.
2.7-inch high-resolution LCD
The DMC-TS3's large 2.7-inch LCD features a high 230,000-dot resolution, and a wide-viewing angle that lets you frame your shot in a variety of ways for both shooting and viewing. LUMIX's acclaimed Intelligent LCD function also automatically adjusts the brightness in 11 steps according to shooting conditions. In addition, the AR (anti-reflective) coating LCD minimizes glare and provides clear images, for high visibility even in outdoor brightness.
This LCD provides sharp, clear images in virtually all shooting situations, ranging from nighttime to bright daylight scenes and from low-angle to high-angle shooting. And it lets you share the fun of viewing images with family and friends.
Lumix Image Uploader
The DMC-TS3 gives you a new form of communication by letting you share your photos and movies. All you have to do is checkmark the photos and movies you want to share and connect the camera or SD/SDHC/SDXC Memory Card to a computer. Uploading automatically starts by simply following the guidance. It's easy to share photos and movies on the spot, which means that your friends don't have to wait for you to come back home to see them.
Read about our customers' top-rated cameras on our review page: Point-and-Shoot Cameras
Customer reviews
Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.
To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.
Learn more how customers reviews work on AmazonCustomers say
Customers like the image quality, quality and ease of use of the digital camera. For example, they mention it takes decent pictures, the underwater pictures are excellent and the flash picture quality is excellent. Some appreciate the intuitive and simple menu. That said, opinions are mixed on performance, waterproofness, gps, and battery life.
AI-generated from the text of customer reviews
Customers like the image quality of the digital camera. They say it takes decent pictures, produces perfect beautiful pictures, and is excellent for underwater use. The flash picture quality is excellent, and there are no blurry pictures. The resolution is years ahead in resolution, color quality, and full HD video recording in AVCHD format. The camera is great in the water and withstands drops.
"...when transfered, however even in these settings, the pictures are more than sufficient if you are just looking for decent quality and not the..." Read more
"...The night handheld shot works great, no flash and no blurry pictures. Also the one minute exposure captured some really cool night shots...." Read more
"...I also own a NikonD60 and can't tell a difference. The underwater pictures were excellent- if the light was good- just like any other camera...." Read more
"...pictures, and I have to say I like the camera -- easy to use, takes a decent picture, and I liked the GPS functionality...." Read more
Customers like the quality of the camera. They say it's rugged, built to withstand shocks and water, and has a good design. Some mention that it'll withstand drops and is clutz proof. Overall, most are satisfied with the quality and functionality of the product.
"...But if your looking for something rugged, to take *well above* average shots any where, any time, and not having to worry about the elements..." Read more
"...The quality was much better than the $10 disposables. We have taken it to the zoo and a couple of Fairs...." Read more
"...The design makes it easy and comfortable to hold while feeling solid, leaving me with a feeling that I can be a little rough with it without having..." Read more
"...on the Lumix TS3, mainly for the new models extra features, added toughness, and the consensus that it takes the best quality photos of all the "..." Read more
Customers find the digital camera easy to use. They say the button is awesome, making videos easy to capture. They also say the menu is intuitive and simple, making it easy to understand and quick to navigate. Customers also mention that the controls are simple to use and make operating it a lot easier. They mention that it's a quick, easy point-and-shoot pocket camera that has three basic ways to set up.
"...The mic picks up sound quite well, and the video is crisp and defined (though I doubt any block buster films will be recorded on one any time soon)...." Read more
"...Works perfectly. Downloading pictures is easy to iPhoto but video has to be downloaded to iMovie and that takes longer than our other camera..." Read more
"...The design makes it easy and comfortable to hold while feeling solid, leaving me with a feeling that I can be a little rough with it without having..." Read more
"...couple hundred of pictures, and I have to say I like the camera -- easy to use, takes a decent picture, and I liked the GPS functionality...." Read more
Customers like the shutter lag of the camera. They say the start time is very fast, the shutter response seems pretty quick, and the camera speed is quick. Some mention that the time to first picture is wicked fast, and that the burst mode is fast and useful for capturing fleeting moments.
"...the shutter response seems pretty quick. The video looks great...." Read more
"...I was very, very surprised how quickly the camera turns on and off. You hit the ON/OFF button and you can take a photo two or three seconds later...." Read more
"...+On time to first picture is wicked fast, I never missed a shot, on account of the camera anyway... see Cons.Eh..." Read more
"...than I can; it shoots fast, auto-shot works well usually, timed shots come out well, and the preset shot selectors seem to work great when shooting..." Read more
Customers are mixed about the performance of the digital camera. Some mention that it works well, and all the modes they tried worked extremely well. However, others say that it will eventually leak and stop working, the operation is not flawless, and the GPS seems to stop working.
"...It has worked as expected in all conditions.Remember that it's not a $1000 camera and that there are limitations to the rugged design...." Read more
"...Then the GPS seemed to stop working, and the last few jumped to a single point about 15 miles southeast of the true position...." Read more
"...The night handheld shot works great, no flash and no blurry pictures. Also the one minute exposure captured some really cool night shots...." Read more
"...I also got the Chum float and would recommend it. It works well ...." Read more
Customers have mixed opinions about the waterproofness of the camera. Some mention that it's truly waterproof, with little rubber gaskets that do an admirable job of keeping water out. However, others say that it got some water inside of it after their second trip to the French Riviera.
"...The waterproof feature held up in surf, snorkeling as well as dust and rain...." Read more
"...The one minor issue is that water does get stuck on the lens so you have to wipe or blow it off...." Read more
"...because it is waterproof, you don't worry that it gets wet, but you also don't really notice that the drops of water on the lens are there and mess..." Read more
"...There was clear saltwater intrusion. I popped the battery and SD cards out immediately, and tipped the camera door-down...." Read more
Customers are mixed about the GPS feature of the camera. Some mention that it's a cool feature and works well, while others say that it isn't really great and is a rather useless feature. They also say that they have trouble finding GPS coordinates in some locations and that the GPS is sometimes slow to acquire a new position.
"...Still highly recommended. The GPS is great and the battery lasts better than any other electronic device we've owned, several days of on and off use...." Read more
"...However, as others I did have some trouble finding GPS coordinates in some locations...." Read more
"...The geotagging worked really well too, even in doors most of my pictures have a decent tag...." Read more
"...At $300 on Amazon, it's an awesome deal. I also love the geotagging...." Read more
Customers are mixed about the battery life of the digital camera. Some mention that it has an amazing battery length, and is great for saving battery. However, others say that it's not great, and the GPS uses a lot of battery.
"...LED light drains the battery, especially while videoing- like any other compact camera, the audio on videos is always muffled...." Read more
"...In other regards, this camera has an amazing battery length. I have a spare (as you always should...) And went to England for 2 weeks...." Read more
"...; it works much faster on one camera than the other but the battery tends to die faster on that camera...." Read more
"...Still highly recommended. The GPS is great and the battery lasts better than any other electronic device we've owned, several days of on and off use...." Read more
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Top reviews from the United States
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The 2 reasons I went with the TS3 are this: 1) the Sony has a sliding cover, which gets stuff (sand for instance) caught under it,or in its hinges, leading to potential breakage, while the Lumix has everything internal, and nothing moves or opens to the outside except a locking door... And 2) The capacitive touch screen of the sony renders it useless when it gets wet, where the Lumix is completely controlled by push buttons on the top or side of the screen. In the few years i had the Lumix TS2 I rarely used it underwater, but frequently used it in dirty places, dusty places and had it in my pocket often. So in that the dustproofing was more important than the waterproofing.
When reading reviews, a few people were knocking the picture quality, and compare it to SLR style cameras. This is not that camera, and never will be. The selling point of this camera is that you can take it virtually anywhere, and any time. Try comparing pictures taken in a dust storm or under water with your SLR, and the TS3 will win every time. It is a take anywhere, use any time camera.
It is not THAT great at an art camera, but it does take decent pictures (I mean artistically here), not just snapshots - especially if you learn how to adjust the settings to your needs (this means reading the manual, guys I am looking at you). But if your looking for great art cameras, your looking at a much higher price tag regardless. I find the pictures to be more than adequate for my needs. You can print them at 8x10 and have no idea that it was a digital not film image. The composition of the picture, the lighting, the angles are on you. The focal length is limited, but that's to be expected.
In other regards, this camera has an amazing battery length. I have a spare (as you always should...) And went to England for 2 weeks. I took around 1000 pictures and about 1/2 hour of video, and still only needed to change the battery once (to my spare). The camera is ready to take pics (from off to a shot) quickly. the shutter response seems pretty quick. The video looks great. The quick menus are something I am getting used to (they were not on the TS2) but though limited on what you are 'allowed' to adjust there (As opposed to going in to the in depth menus from another button), they are useful. It is ergonomic for me, and I have huge hands. I think the placement of the buttons is intuitive (except i do not like the new placement of the zoom controls), and easy to use on the fly. The mic picks up sound quite well, and the video is crisp and defined (though I doubt any block buster films will be recorded on one any time soon). The focus tracking is good at following my baby around.
Again not the best P&S for the money. Not even comparable to a SLR camera. But if your looking for something rugged, to take *well above* average shots any where, any time, and not having to worry about the elements ruining your investment, I feel this camera would suit your needs perfectly.
I have already used it under water in the local YMCA pool and it worked great, both pictures and video. The quality was much better than the $10 disposables. We have taken it to the zoo and a couple of Fairs. I was never concerned about dirt, moisture or getting it knocked. It has worked as expected in all conditions.
Remember that it's not a $1000 camera and that there are limitations to the rugged design. Its picture quality is no better than a camera half its price. It's bulkier and a little heavier than most digital cameras; but nothing that causes problems. You are limited with distance with the flash. Remember the limitations and there are no problems.
The GPS is a little slow locating itself. Recommendation: Take a minute whenever you arrive somewhere to get the GPS set asap. Don't wait until you want to take a picture! The battery has lasted about a day of regular use and the GPS permanently on. With it staying on it locates itself far quicker.
We are going on a cruise in a few weeks and I will update this review if needed; so far this is a highly recommended camera that will do more and take more abuse than most of us will do with it!
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August 2012 Update:
The camera greatly surpassed our hopes for the cruise and we came back with some great shots. The waterproof feature held up in surf, snorkeling as well as dust and rain. We have taken it to Charleston beaches several times and it recently survived waves and sand castle building (in the sand) without any issues. Everyone is impressed with what we expose this camera to. Still highly recommended. The GPS is great and the battery lasts better than any other electronic device we've owned, several days of on and off use. Hard to quantify because it will depend on how long you leave it on, use the zoom, preview pictures as you take them etc.
Reviewed in the United States on October 26, 2011
I have already used it under water in the local YMCA pool and it worked great, both pictures and video. The quality was much better than the $10 disposables. We have taken it to the zoo and a couple of Fairs. I was never concerned about dirt, moisture or getting it knocked. It has worked as expected in all conditions.
Remember that it's not a $1000 camera and that there are limitations to the rugged design. Its picture quality is no better than a camera half its price. It's bulkier and a little heavier than most digital cameras; but nothing that causes problems. You are limited with distance with the flash. Remember the limitations and there are no problems.
The GPS is a little slow locating itself. Recommendation: Take a minute whenever you arrive somewhere to get the GPS set asap. Don't wait until you want to take a picture! The battery has lasted about a day of regular use and the GPS permanently on. With it staying on it locates itself far quicker.
We are going on a cruise in a few weeks and I will update this review if needed; so far this is a highly recommended camera that will do more and take more abuse than most of us will do with it!
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August 2012 Update:
The camera greatly surpassed our hopes for the cruise and we came back with some great shots. The waterproof feature held up in surf, snorkeling as well as dust and rain. We have taken it to Charleston beaches several times and it recently survived waves and sand castle building (in the sand) without any issues. Everyone is impressed with what we expose this camera to. Still highly recommended. The GPS is great and the battery lasts better than any other electronic device we've owned, several days of on and off use. Hard to quantify because it will depend on how long you leave it on, use the zoom, preview pictures as you take them etc.