Panasonic Lumix FZ40 vs FZ100 - Point and Shoot Super-Zoom Shoot-out

Panasonic is trying to confuse the camera buying public, right? Why else would they produce cameras that look alike, act alike, and feel alike, but have different price tags? It's true. The Panasonic Lumix FZ40 and FZ100 point and shoot cameras appear to be nearly identical, yet their cost is more than $100 different.There are reasons, and we will discuss them shortly, but first, let's take a look at the things that are virtually the same.* 14.1-megapixel resolution* 24x optical zoom (in terms of a 35mm camera, that is equivalent to 25mm -600mm)* 25mm wide-angle Leica DC Vario-Elmarit lens* 3" LCD* Intelligent Auto (iA) for creative scene modes* HD videoBoth cameras have the great zoom lens making them ideal for consideration as your next vacation camera. Not only is it 24x, but it is made by one of the most respected names in lens quality construction - Leica.So what is it that makes one camera worth so much more? Well, there are actually a few things.1. CCD vs CMOS sensor - Even though they have the same megapixel resolution, the FZ100 has the CMOS sensor. This is the same type sensor as the big boys have - you know, the Digital SLR models.2. The FZ40 does not have the ability to attach an external flash while the sibling does. This is a big deal for some avid hobbyists.3. Video for the FZ40 is 720p while the FZ100 is a full 1080p4. LCD screens are both 3", but the less expensive camera has a lower dot count at 230,000 dots vs 460,000 dots. 5. Articulating LCD screen on the more expensive model, while the other has a standard stationary LCD screen.6. Continuous shooting is significantly different. The Panasonic FZ100 can capture 11 frames per second vs 1.8 frames per second. Not even the big boys can boast that kind of speed (11 fps).Now, when you are looking at the cameras side-by-side, they truly look the same, but check out the user comments at the online stores. There are more satisfied users of the FZ40. One fairly accomplished photographer put it like this:"...the Panasonic FZ-40 is probably as good as P&S's will get with the current technology. Some day someone will figure out how to get a bigger and better sensor to work with a mega-zoom lens, but until then, the FZ-40 is my choice."Endorsements like this are not uncommon about either model.