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Leica's compact, wide-angle C-Lux 2

Leica unveils its version of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX30.

Headshot of Lori Grunin
Headshot of Lori Grunin
Lori Grunin Senior Editor / Advice
I've been reviewing hardware and software, devising testing methodology and handed out buying advice for what seems like forever; I'm currently absorbed by computers and gaming hardware, but previously spent many years concentrating on cameras. I've also volunteered with a cat rescue for over 15 years doing adoptions, designing marketing materials, managing volunteers and, of course, photographing cats.
Expertise Photography | PCs and laptops | Gaming and gaming accessories
Lori Grunin
Leica's C-Lux 2
Leica's C-Lux 2 Stephen Shankland/CNET Networks

In the continuing tradition of Leica and Panasonic releasing fraternal-twin cameras, Leica is debuting its customized version of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX30, which that company announced at the end of January.

As usual, Leica targets a slightly more upscale audience with its C-Lux 2, justifying the $150 price differential by bundling a 64MB SD card--are they still making them that small?--and a copy of Adobe Photoshop Elements. Leica will also be offering a variety of leather cases as accessories.

Except for some minor cosmetic details, the 7-megapixel C-Lux 2 matches the FX30 pretty closely. It features a 28mm-100mm-equivalent, optically stabilized lens and 2.5-inch LCD, plus an 848x480 30fps movie mode. Unlike the FX30, which comes in four colors, the C-Lux 2 sticks with basic black and silver models.

Leica plans to charge $499 for the C-Lux 2 when it ships in May.