Panasonic DMC-TS6

Specifications​​​​​

  • 16 megapixel 1/2.3” CMOS sensor
  • 4.6x optical zoom (28-128mm equivalent)
  • Maximum aperture f3.3-f5.9
  • Maximum shutter speed 1/1300
  • ISO 100-3200
  • Optical image stabilization
  • Contrast detection autofocus with 23 points
  • Manual mode (no shutter or aperture priority modes)
  • 10 fps continuous shooting
  • 1080p HD video at 30 fps
  • Waterproof to 43'
  • Shockproof to 6.6'
  • 3” LCD
  • WI-Fi and NFC
  • Li-ion battery rated at 350 shots
  • Weighs .55 pounds (249g)
  • Release Date: 2015-01-15

The Panasonic DMC-TS6 is designed for outdoor adventures. While there's a handful of similar options, one of the highlighting features is that the TS6 hits an excellent burst speed of 10 fps, a big plus for those shooting rugged sports.

The TS6 can head underwater down to 43 feet. If you prefer action on land, it can withstand drops of over six feet, as being sealed to protect against camera errors from dust and dirt. Cold isn't an issue either, with the compact shooter still shooting even at 14 degrees.

While the TS6 has the best burst speed in the category, we would love to see some improvement in the lens. The f3.3-5.9 aperture is typical for compact cameras--the problem is, when you head underwater, there's a whole lot less light, so a bright lens makes a big difference with 40+ feet of water between you and the sun.

Panasonic added a handful of extra features, including wi-fi. A compass, altimeter and barometer is also built right in, specifically targeting the camera for outdoor adventure seekers.

The TS6 has an excellent burst speed for shooting action. But if your main intent is heading underwater, the Olympus TG-3's f2.0 lens will make a significant difference, it just has half the burst speed. It will likely come down to the style of shooting you intend to use it for, and whether speed or a bright lens is more important. Either way, it's not a bad choice.