Panasonic launches a new entry-level rugged digital camera, the compact LUMIX DMC-TS20. Compare to its brother TS4, the entry-level TS20 (aka DMC-FT20) is less capable that it is waterproof to 16 feet (5 meters), shockproof to approximately 5 feet (1.5 meters), dustproof and freezeproof to temperatures as low as 14ºF. The camera is equipped with 16.1 Megapixel image sensor. While the TS4 does Full HD recording, the TS20 supports 1280x720p HD video recording. It also lacks GPS.
The LUMIX TS20 has a flat and slim profile yet it sports a 25mm ultra-wide-angle lens and a 4x optical zoom and offers 8x extended zoom with the Intelligent Zoom function, made possible by Panasonic’s Intelligent Resolution technology. The TS20 includes iA (Intelligent Auto) mode that offers a suite of technologies such as Face Detection, MEGA O.I.S., AF Tracking, Intelligent ISO Control, Intelligent Scene Selector and Intelligent Exposure. There are also some creative and fun features including the Miniature Effect mode that defocuse the peripheries while emphasize saturation and contrast, Panorama Shot for capturing maximum 360-degree of horizontal / vertical panoramic image, and Auto Retouch function that adjusts contrast and brightness to give different impression to the photo with just a press of a button.
The Panasonic LUMIX DMC-TS20 has a 2.7-inch Intelligent LCD with High Angle mode. It uses SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards. The TS20 comes in orange, black, blue and red model. It is priced at $179.99.
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