Despite the double-digit model number, the G10 comes across as a pared-down version of the G2, for those who want an even more affordable, smaller-format Micro Four Thirds camera that still looks and handles like a regular DSLR. Because it is £130 less, the G10 doesn’t have a touch screen, there’s no quick-access movie button, and the LCD monitor – like on most DSLRs – is fixed, so it lacks the viewing flexibility of the G2. The electronic viewfinder has a lower resolution too, at 202k dots, and this model is only available in the sophisticated black body colour.

But rather than grumble about what the G10 doesn’t have, there are still plenty of positives to focus on. This camera features HD video, here in a more conventional (and thus widely compatible) Motion JPEG format and, despite the screen being fixed, the image it relays remains lifelike thanks to the same higher-than-average 460k-dot resolution as the G2. For those looking to shoot in low light, you not only get the built-in flash of the G2 but also its maximum sensitivity setting (an improvement on the G1) of ISO6400. The G10 is also marginally lighter than the G2 at 558g with the same 14-42mm (28-84mm equivalent) lens attached, despite overall dimensions being an exact match. The lens suffers some barrel distortion when shooting at maximum wide angle, but edge-to-edge sharpness is well maintained rather than softening toward the corners. Otherwise images are crisp and colour rich, particularly if selecting Expressive colour mode.

Timesaving user-friendliness is maintained by the Quick Menu button, as found on Panasonic’s well-received compacts. Press this and the operational icons displayed across the top of the screen become active, so by tabbing through them with the camera’s buttons, changes can be made without having to scroll through the menu folders.

Although the G10 lacks some of the convenient features of the G2, convenience is something you pay extra for, and if you don’t wish to do so you’ll find the G10 a very capable compact/DSLR hybrid in its own right. At just under £500, it is currently the cheapest Micro Four Thirds camera with a kit lens on the market, with street prices undoubtedly less expensive still.