Panasonic's 2012 entry ultracompact — 14.1MP CCD, 24-120mm 5x zoom, 720p MP4; US name FH6
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS40 was an entry-level ultracompact introduced in January 2012 and on sale from March, launched alongside the higher-specified FS45. It is the European name for the camera sold in North America as the Lumix DMC-FH6, one of the last generations of Panasonic's budget CCD compacts before smartphones absorbed the category.
It used a 14.1-megapixel 1/2.3-inch CCD behind a stabilised 5x zoom covering a genuinely wide 24-120mm equivalent at f/2.5-6.4. A 2.7-inch LCD, 720p HD video recording in MP4, SD/SDHC/SDXC card support and the DMW-BCK7E lithium-ion battery completed the spec, all in a 96x56x20mm body weighing around 103g.
The 24mm wide end is the FS40's main draw, unusual at its price point and handy for interiors and landscapes. It is a fully automatic camera aimed at beginners, so control is limited to scene and auto modes; the bright f/2.5 wide aperture helps indoors but the lens slows quickly when zoomed.
Buying used, confirm the DMW-BCK7E battery and a charger are included and that the pack still holds charge. SDXC support means modern cards work, which simplifies testing. Check the slim lens barrel extends cleanly, the screen is unmarked, and video records with sound. Late CCD compacts like this are usually low-mileage, but verify with a powered demonstration.