Panasonic Lumix ZS300 / TZ300: A Familiar Travel Zoom with USB-C and a Missing Viewfinder
Panasonic has released the Lumix ZS300 (likewise known as the TZ300), a successor to the popular Lumix ZS200 / TZ200 from 2018. Even as maintaining the core features that made its predecessor a favorite among travel photographers, the ZS300 introduces a USB-C port but notably removes the electronic viewfinder (EVF). This update arrives as the ZS200 has become increasingly difficult to find, offering consumers a renewed option in this compact camera category.
Core Specifications Remain Consistent
The Lumix ZS300 / TZ300 retains the key specifications that defined the ZS200. It features a 15x optical zoom lens, equivalent to 24-360mm, and a 20.1-megapixel 1-inch Type 1 CMOS image sensor. This combination allows for versatile shooting capabilities in a pocketable form factor, capable of capturing both still images and 4K video .
Key Changes: USB-C and the Removal of the EVF
Two primary changes differentiate the ZS300 from the ZS200. First, Panasonic has upgraded the data transfer and charging port from micro-USB to USB-C, aligning with current industry standards and European regulations. Second, and more significantly, the ZS300 omits the 2.33-million-dot EVF found in the ZS200, replacing it with additional plastic. This mirrors a similar decision made with the Lumix ZS99 / TZ99 released in late 2024.
Features and Capabilities
Beyond the core specifications, the Lumix ZS300 offers several features for enhanced shooting experiences. These include:
- 120fps slow-motion video recording in Full HD
- Macro mode with a close focusing distance of just 3cm
- 22 creative filters for in-camera image effects
- Wireless connectivity via the Panasonic Image App for smartphone integration
Availability and Pricing
The Panasonic Lumix ZS300 / TZ300 is available in black and gray color options, beginning in May 2026. It is priced at £869 / AU$1,599. US pricing and availability will be updated as information becomes available.
Despite the minimal upgrades, the return of this camera series provides photographers with a familiar and capable option for travel and everyday photography.