Panasonic Lumix DMC-CM1 smartphone

Photo: Kārlis Dambrāns from Latvia via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)

Panasonic

Panasonic Lumix DMC-CM1

September 2014 8/10 Rating Updated
In brief: The Panasonic Lumix DMC-CM1 was a groundbreaking device that blurred the lines between a high-end compact camera and an Android smartphone. Its standout feature was a large 1-inch, 20-megapixel sensor paired with a Leica lens, offering exceptional image quality for a mobile device at its time.
Display4.7-inch Full HD IPS LCD
ChipsetQualcomm Snapdragon 801
Main Camera20MP with 1-inch sensor and Leica lens
Battery2600mAh
Starting from $349

💰 Panasonic Lumix DMC-CM1 Price

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-CM1 lowest price is $349, based on current retailer listings.

📌 Full Specifications

Display

TypeIPS LCD
Size4.7 inches
Resolution1080 x 1920 pixels (~469 ppi density)
ProtectionCorning Gorilla Glass (unspecified version)

Platform

OSAndroid 4.4.2 KitKat, upgradable to 5.0 Lollipop
ChipsetQualcomm MSM8974AB Snapdragon 801 (28 nm)
CPUQuad-core 2.3 GHz Krait 400
GPUAdreno 330

Memory

Card slotmicroSDXC (dedicated slot), up to 128GB
Internal16GB 2GB RAM

Main Camera

Modules20 MP, 1" sensor, f/2.8, 28mm (wide), Leica DC Elmarit lens, autofocus
FeaturesRAW image capture, physical shutter button, manual control ring for aperture, shutter speed, ISO, LED flash
Video4K@15fps, 1080p@30fps

Selfie Camera

Modules1.1 MP
Video1080p

Battery

TypeLi-Ion 2600 mAh, non-removable
Charging18W wired, QC2

Body

Dimensions135.4 x 68 x 21.1 mm (5.33 x 2.68 x 0.83 in) - Note: 21.1mm at thickest point due to camera lens, thinnest part is around 15.2mm.
Weight204 g (7.20 oz)
SIMMicro-SIM

Comms

WLANWi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct, DLNA, hotspot
Bluetooth4.0, A2DP, LE
PositioningGPS, GLONASS
NFCYes
RadioFM radio (market dependent)
USBmicroUSB 2.0

Launch

AnnouncedSeptember 2014
StatusReleased December 2014 (Europe), Summer 2015 (USA)

⚖ Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Exceptional image quality for a smartphone due to its large sensor and Leica lens
  • RAW image capture and extensive manual camera controls appeal to photographers
  • Physical shutter button and lens control ring enhance the camera experience
  • Runs a relatively clean version of Android, upgradable to Lollipop
  • 4K video recording, though at 15fps

Cons

  • High price point at launch
  • Thicker and heavier than most contemporary smartphones
  • 4K video limited to 15 frames per second
  • No optical image stabilization (OIS)
  • Limited internal storage (16GB) for a camera-focused device
  • Weak LED flash compared to dedicated cameras
★ Our Verdict

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-CM1 receives a high rating for its innovative approach to mobile photography, delivering professional-grade camera features in a smartphone form factor, despite some compromises in phone ergonomics and video frame rates.

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-CM1 is a niche device, primarily appealing to photography enthusiasts who prioritize image quality above all else in a smartphone. If you value a large 1-inch sensor, a Leica lens, RAW capture, and extensive manual controls, this phone offers a unique experience. However, be aware of its age; it runs an older version of Android, meaning app compatibility and security updates will be limited. Its thicker profile and higher weight might also be a consideration for daily smartphone use. Given its original high price, finding one today might be challenging, and it's likely to be a collector's item or a secondary device for dedicated mobile photographers rather than a primary smartphone. Consider its limitations as a modern smartphone before purchasing, but embrace its strengths as a powerful 'communication camera'.

Reviewed by the infozme.com Editorial Team — see how we research & rate phones.

📦 In The Box & Warranty

  • Panasonic Lumix DMC-CM1 smartphone
  • USB cable
  • Wall charger
  • Headphones
  • Quick start guide

Standard manufacturer's warranty, typically 1 year for parts and labor.

❓ Questions & Answers

What makes the Panasonic Lumix DMC-CM1 unique?

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-CM1 is unique for being one of the first smartphones to integrate a large 1-inch, 20-megapixel camera sensor and a high-quality Leica lens, offering image quality comparable to dedicated compact cameras.

Does the Panasonic Lumix DMC-CM1 support RAW image capture?

Yes, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-CM1 is capable of capturing images in RAW format, providing photographers with greater flexibility for post-processing and editing.

What operating system does the Panasonic Lumix DMC-CM1 run?

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-CM1 originally launched with Android 4.4.2 KitKat and was upgradable to Android 5.0 Lollipop.

Can the Panasonic Lumix DMC-CM1 record 4K video?

Yes, the device can record 4K video, though it is limited to a frame rate of 15 frames per second. It also supports 1080p video recording at 30fps.

What are the main drawbacks of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-CM1?

Key drawbacks include its high launch price, thicker and heavier design compared to other smartphones, 4K video limited to 15fps, lack of optical image stabilization, and relatively small internal storage.

Is the Panasonic Lumix DMC-CM1 still a viable smartphone today?

While its camera capabilities remain impressive, its older Android operating system means limited app compatibility, security updates, and potentially slower performance compared to modern smartphones, making it more of a niche device for photography enthusiasts or collectors.