- The Lumix ZS300/TZ300 updates the 2018 Lumix ZS200/TZ200
- Both feature 15x optical zoom, 1-inch sensor, and 20MP still images
- USB-C charging is added, but a key feature is removed
Following last year’s Lumix ZS99 (known as the Lumix TZ99 outside the US), Panasonic has brought back another one of its classic compact travel zoom cameras: the high-end Lumix ZS300/TZ300.
It updates the 2018 Lumix ZS200/TZ200, which we gave a 4.5-star rating and labeled “the most advanced travel zoom camera you can buy today.” That was eight years ago, mind you, so what’s new in the 2026 update?
Not much, is the simple answer. The Lumix ZS300/TZ300 has the same basic specifications as its predecessor, with a stabilized lens with 15x optical zoom for an effective range of 24-360mm and a 1-inch sensor for 20 MP photos and 4K video recording.
Article continues below
To be honest, these specs still rival other much newer compact cameras. And USB-C charging has been added, which is a very handy feature for travel and brings Panasonic’s premium line of compact travel zoom lenses into compliance with common charging rules in Europe.
But, as with the Lumix ZS99/TZ99, where one feature is gained, another is lost: Panasonic has removed the electronic viewfinder.
Picture 1 of 3
The classic is back, but something is missing
To be fair, in our ZS200/TZ200 review we described this feature as “cramped.” Still, keen photographers tend to appreciate the option of a viewfinder, especially in bright light, when screens can otherwise be difficult to see clearly.
As mentioned, Panasonic made the same move with the Lumix ZS99/TZ99 (which updated the Lumix ZS80/TZ95). This is likely a cost-cutting exercise and/or a reflection of how most people now tend to rely on screens to compose images.
What’s striking though is that with very little added to differentiate it from an eight-year-old model, the new Lumix ZS300/TZ300 still seems like a compelling choice today.
In addition to the basic specs mentioned above, it records slow-motion video at 120fps in FHD, has a macro setting with close focus down to just 3cm, 22 creative filters for built-in effects on the go, as well as wireless connection to a smartphone via the Panasonic Image app.
The Lumix ZS300/TZ300 is available in black or gray colorways (see below) from early May 2026 and will cost £869. I will update this page with pricing and availability in the US and Australia when I get that information.
Would I have liked to see some of Panasonic’s latest features included here, such as its improved autofocus and real-time LUTs? Of course, Canon is a brand that makes truly new products in this area with modern features, such as the PowerShot V1. That said, I’m glad this Lumix line is back and available for purchase. I think the design and feature set of the ZS300/TZ300 will appeal to a lot of people.
Follow TechRadar on Google News And add us as your favorite source to get our news, reviews and expert opinions in your feeds. Make sure to click the Follow button!
And of course you can too follow TechRadar on TikTok for news, reviews, unboxings in video form and receive regular updates from us on WhatsApp Also.
