Panasonic introduced the new Lumix ZS300, a pocket-sized digital compact camera designed for travelers and everyday creators who want, the company says, exceptional image quality in a portable form. With approximately 111.2 (W) x 66.4 (H) x 45.2 (D) mm (dimensions exclude protrusions) the ZS300 misses the viewfinder from the previous model and introduces an USB-C connection that makes it “legal” in Europe (where it’s called TZ300).
In fact, the key reason for Panasonic to update its ZS200 to the new ZS300 is the Common Charger Directive 2022/2380 approved by the Council of the European Union, stating that “all devices with wired charging capabilities must feature a USB-C port to be eligible for sale within the region”. Since 28 December 2024, all mobile phones, tablets and cameras sold in the EU must have a USB-C charging port, as Europeans want to reduce electronic waste and make electrical appliances more sustainable.
When in 2024 Panasonic updated its superzoom camera from 2017, the new Lumix FZ80D introduced kept the same 18MP sensor but had a crucial change, due to European legislation: an USB-C connection. The new model also included a much larger and higher-quality electronic viewfinder, which goes from 1.16 million dots to 2.36 million dots and the rear LCD, which is also sharper, increasing from 1.04 million dots to 1.84 million, but the USB-C was the key reason for the launch of the model.
The Lumix ZS300, which is essentially a ZS200 minus viewfinder, comes with a USB Type C for charging from AC adapters, PCs, or power banks for easy power on the go, that complies with European legislation, but is also a common interface being used around the world.
The new ZS300 is a good travel camera, with an optical zoom that allows you to photograph distant landmarks on a vacation, capture vibrant night views in a busy city, or recording spontaneous moments with friends, according to Panasonic. Its LEICA certified lens covers a 24–360mm (35mm camera equivalent) focal range, enabling everything from sweeping landscapes to faraway subjects to be captured with crisp precision. The 1.0 type BSI CMOS high sensitivity sensor minimizes noise in nighttime scenes, preserving natural brightness and fine detail at approximately 20.1 megapixels.
For video shooting, the TZ300 offers 4K recording at 3840 × 2160, providing lifelike detail for travel scenes and fast-moving action. High speed FHD 120fps recording offers smooth slow-motion expression, while 4K PHOTO captures moments at 30 frames per second, letting you extract the perfect shot.
To ensure stable and blur free shooting, POWER O.I.S. effectively compensates for handshake at telephoto or in low-light environments. When filming while walking, 5 axis HYBRID O.I.S.+ provides smooth, stable video.
A variety of 22 creative filter effects allow users to tailor the look of their photos to match their personal style. A built in flash ensures bright, clear results even in dark settings such as indoor parties or nighttime portraits.
High Image Quality
- 1.0-type 20.1MP BSI CMOS sensor captures bright, detailed images with minimal noise, even in low-light scenes
- LEICA certified 24–360mm 15x optical zoom lens delivers clear results from wide landscapes to distant subjects
- AF Macro enables close-up shooting from 3cm, ideal for small objects and everyday discoveries
Reliable Image Stabilization
- 4K video (3840×2160) records travel scenes with lifelike detail
- High-speed FHD 120fps for smooth slow-motion footage
- 4K PHOTO captures 30 fps burst images, allowing you to select and save the perfect moment
- 22 creative filters offer a wide range of in-camera effects to match your preferred shooting style
Powerful Photo & Video Performance
- POWER O.I.S. minimizes blur when shooting handheld, especially at telephoto or in low light
- 5-axis HYBRID O.I.S.+ ensures smooth and stable video while walking
Smart Connectivity & Convenience
- Connect to a smartphone via Bluetooth, and transfer images through Wi‑Fi using the Panasonic Image App
- USB Type‑C charging from AC adapters, PCs, or power banks for easy power on the go
- Compact, pocket-sized design makes it ideal for travel and daily carry
The Lumix ZS300 will be available, in black and silver, in May in the United States with a retail price of $899. The camera will be available in Europe in black (DC-TZ300E-K) and grey (DC-TZ300E-S) from beginning of May at RRP €999 / £869.