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Head-to-head · Best Compact Travel Cameras

Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ80D vs Ricoh GR IV

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

The short answer

Ricoh GR IV comes out ahead by a clear margin (2.9 vs 4.1). The gap is mostly about fit for purpose — read the strengths below before deciding.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ80D
Ranked #4 in Best Compact Travel Cameras
Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ80D
$447

The Panasonic Lumix FZ80D offers a compelling 60x optical zoom range in a compact bridge camera body, making it ideal for travelers and wildlife photographers who need extreme reach. Digital Camera World praised its 4K video capabilities and zoom range, though both reviewers noted the camera's lackluster image quality due to its small sensor. Michael Fil called it 'not worth the money for the features, the form, and the fun' but acknowledged it's a practical choice for casual shooters. It's best suited for users prioritizing zoom over image quality, with the 330-shot battery life being a notable limitation.

Strengths
  • — 60x optical zoom range equivalent to 20-1200mm on full-frame
  • — 4K video capture at 30p
  • — 3-inch fixed touchscreen LCD with 1.84 million dots
Watch-outs
  • — Lackluster image quality due to small 1/2.3" sensor
  • — Chunky and bulky design
  • — Limited battery life for extended use
Full review →
Ricoh GR IV
Higher ratedRanked #1 in Best Compact Travel Cameras
Ricoh GR IV
$1,499

The Ricoh GR IV represents a refined evolution of the compact camera series, featuring a 25.74MP backside-illuminated APS-C sensor and upgraded 18.3mm F2.8 lens with improved sharpness. DPReview praised its 5-axis stabilization system and faster lens startup time. However, the $1499 MSRP is a significant jump from previous models. The camera's control layout returns to GR II design elements while incorporating GR III's firmware features like Snap Distance Priority mode. While it excels in image quality and portability, the increased price and limited internal storage may deter some users.

Strengths
  • — 25.74MP backside-illuminated APS-C sensor delivers improved image quality
  • — 5-axis image stabilization with 6EV rating provides better shake reduction
  • — Redesigned 18.3mm F2.8 lens with aspherical element improves sharpness and corner detail
Watch-outs
  • — MSRP of $1499 is a substantial increase from previous GR models
  • — Internal storage of 53GB may not be sufficient for all users despite being larger than GR III's 2GB
Full review →

Specs side-by-side

SpecPanasonic Lumix DMC-FZ80DRicoh GR IV
Sensor1/2.3" MOS25.74MP APS-C
Resolution18.1 MP25.74MP
Lens60x18.3mm F2.8 (28mm equiv)
Video4K (30p)FullHD (1080) up to 60p
Display3-inch fixed touchscreen LCD, 1840k-dots3.0" 1.04M dot LCD
Burst Rate10 fps—
StabilizationOptical Image Stabilizer (OIS)5-axis 6EV
Weight1.41 lb262g
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