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Panasonic LUMIX GH5 4K Digital Camera, 20.3 Megapixel Mirrorless Camera with Digital Live MOS Sensor, 5-Axis Dual I.S. 2.0, 4K 4:2:2 10-Bit Video, Full-Size HDMI Out, 3.2-Inch LCD, DC-GH5 (Black)
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Compatible Mountings | Micro Four Thirds |
Aspect Ratio | 16:9 |
Photo Sensor Technology | CMOS |
Supported File Format | JPEG, Raw |
Image Stabilization | Sensor-Shift, 5-Axis |
Optical Zoom | 1 x |
Maximum Aperture | 4 f |
Expanded ISO Minimum | 80 |
Metering Description | Center-Weighted Average, Multiple, Spot |
Brand | Panasonic |
About this item
- Professional photo and video: 20.3 Megapixel micro four thirds sensor with no low pass filter to capture sharp images with a high dynamic range and artifact free performance
- Splash or Freeze Proof Design: Freeze proof to 10 degrees the durable magnesium alloy body withstands heavy use in the field; Splash or dust proof construction with weather sealing on every Joint, dial and button
- Dual image stabilization: 5 axis dual image stabilization corrects all lenses, including classic lenses not equipped with O. I. S, to eliminate Blur and nearly eliminate body and lens shake in both photo and 4K video recording
- 4K video capture: Records silky smooth 4K 60P by 50P (QFHD 4K: 3840 x 2160 ; MOV or MP4) video with internal 4: 2: 2 10 bit 4K video recording, Plus exclusive 6K photo and 4K post focus records photos up to 60Fps
- Connectivity and Ports: 3.5 millimeter audio port, connect to devices with USB 3.0, an external monitor or external Recorder with a full size HDMI port; Available Twin SD card slots (UHS II U3 compatible)
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Top Brand: Panasonic
From the manufacturer

Panasonic LUMIX DC-GH5KBODY
Why settle for photo only?
You won't with the Panasonic LUMIX GH5. The pro photo / 4K video camera built on the next-generation mirrorless (ILC) interchangeable lens camera standard [Micro Four Thirds] pioneered by Panasonic.

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20.3 Megapixels
With the high-performance 20.3MP Digital Live MOS sensor that is low-pass filterless, you can confidently capture super-sharp images with a high-dynamic range that are artifact free.
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4K 60p/50p Smooth Quality Video
Record smooth 4K 60p/50p (QFHD 4K: 3840 x 2160 / MOV or MP4) video with excellent motion compensation plus slow down footage inside your timeline without losing detail.
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4:2:2 10-Bit Internal Recording
Game changing internal 4:2:2 10-bit 4K video recording renders all the subtleties of graduated skies, sunsets and more without the banding so prone to 8-bit.
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6K 30fps / 4K 60 FPS Photo Burst
6K Photo mode at 30fps captures perfect moments at a ~18-megapixel resolution. 4K Photo mode at 60fps freezes even faster motion, a feat not possible in conventional DSLRs.
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5-Axis Dual I.S. 2.0 Eliminates Blur
The GH5 nearly eliminates body and lens shake in both photo and 4K video recording. Its 5-axis Body I.S. corrects all lenses, including classic lenses not equipped with O.I.S.
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2 SD Card Slots. 3 Modes.
Increase capacity and efficiency with Relay mode to swap a full card for an empty one. Backup to record continuously on one card while recording on the other. Simultaneous to duplicate on both.

Pinnacle of Perfection
The experts agree. The award-winning LUMIX GH5 mirrorless 4K camera is tops!

Inside the Box
Includes LUMIX GH5 camera body, cable holder, hot shoe cover, battery, battery charger, camera body cap, shoulder strap, USB connection cable, AC cable, basic owner's manual (English and Spanish), Quick Start Guide, 6K/4K Photo Quick Start Guide, product registration card.
Compare to other LUMIX
20.3MP | Sensor Size | 25.2 MP |
| 4:2:2 10bit interval | |
C4K/4K 60P/50P | | |
| Unlimited Recording | |
5-stop | Dual I.S. 2 | 7.5-stop |
Free-angle | LCD | Tilt & Free-angle |
725g | Weight | 823g |
20.3MP | Sensor Size | 20.3 MP |
| 4:2:2 10bit interval | |
C4K/4K 60P/50P | ||
| Unlimited Recording | |
5-stop | Dual I.S. 2 | 6.5-stop |
Free-angle | LCD | Free-angle |
725g | Weight | 727g |
20.3MP | Sensor Size | 10.2 MP |
| 4:2:2 10bit interval | |
C4K/4K 60P/50P | ||
| Unlimited Recording | |
5-stop | Dual I.S. 2 | No |
Free-angle | LCD | Free-angle |
725g | Weight | 660g |
Compare with similar items
This Item ![]() Panasonic LUMIX GH5 4K Digital Camera, 20.3 Megapixel Mirrorless Camera with Digital Live MOS Sensor, 5-Axis Dual I.S. 2.0, 4K 4:2:2 10-Bit Video, Full-Size HDMI Out, 3.2-Inch LCD, DC-GH5 (Black) | Recommendations | |||||
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Price | $727.00$727.00 | $999.95$999.95 | -20% $1,197.99$1,197.99 List: $1,499.99 | -30% $697.99$697.99 List: $999.99 | -25% $1,497.99$1,497.99 List: $1,999.99 | -9% $1,997.99$1,997.99 List: $2,199.99 |
Delivery | Get it as soon as Tuesday, Mar 25 | — | Get it as soon as Tuesday, Mar 18 | Get it as soon as Tuesday, Mar 18 | Get it as soon as Tuesday, Mar 18 | Get it as soon as Tuesday, Mar 18 |
Customer Ratings | ||||||
Sold By | FastGoodCamera | Titan Dealz | Amazon.com | Amazon.com | Amazon.com | Amazon.com |
display type | LCD | LCD | LCD | OLED | LCD | LCD |
display size | 3.2 inches | 3.2 inches | 3 inches | — | 3 inches | 3 inches |
lens type | Fisheye | — | Wide Angle | Telephoto | Wide Angle | Wide Angle |
zoom type | Depth from Defocus | Optical Zoom | Optical Zoom | Digital Zoom | — | optical |
shooting modes | Expressive, Retro, Old Days, High Key, Low Key, Sepia, Monochrome, Dynamic Monochrome, Rough Monochrome, Silky Monochrome, Impressive Art, High Dynamic, Cross Process, Toy Effect, Toy Pop, Bleach Bypass, Miniature Effect, Soft Focus, Fantasy, Star Filter, One Point Color, Sunshine | Automatic | Bulb Mode,Aperture Priority, Auto, Manual, Program, Shutter Priority | Automatic | Automatic | Manual, Auto, Program, Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority |
connectivity tech | HDMI, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, HDMI | Wi-Fi | wired, wireless | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, HDMI, USB | Wi-Fi, USB |
video resolution | 4K UHD 2160p | 2160p | 2160p | 2160p | 4320p | 4320p |
optical zoom | 1 multiplier x | 1 multiplier x | 5 multiplier x | — | 0 multiplier x | 5 multiplier x |
magnification | — | 0.76x | 0.76x | 0.74x | 0.78x | 0.76x |
wireless tech | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi |
model name | Panasonic Lumix GH5 | GH5 | Panasonic LUMIX GH5M2, Mirrorless Camera with Live Streaming | DC-G95DMK | Panasonic LUMIX S5M2 Full Frame Mirrorless Camera Body | DC-GH7BODY |
What's in the box
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Product information
Brand | Panasonic |
---|---|
Model Name | Panasonic Lumix GH5 |
Built-In Media | body cap, hot shoe cover, shoulder strap, dvd, Camera, battery charger, battery, usb cable, hdmi cable lock |
Are Batteries Included | Yes |
Model Number | DC-GH5 |
Remote Included | No |
Global Trade Identification Number | 00885170307100, 00885170307124 |
UPC | 885170307124 885170307100 |
Customer Reviews |
4.7 out of 5 stars |
Best Sellers Rank | #141,656 in Electronics (See Top 100 in Electronics) #350 in Mirrorless Cameras |
ASIN | B01MZ3LQQ5 |
Metering Methods | Center-Weighted Average, Multiple, Spot |
---|---|
Exposure Control | aperture-priority, shutter-speed-priority, manual-and-automatic |
White Balance Settings | Auto |
Self Timer | 10 seconds |
Crop Mode | Micro Four Thirds |
Screen Size | 3.2 Inches |
---|---|
Display Type | LCD |
Display Fixture Type | Articulating |
Display Resolution Maximum | 1620 |
Has Color Screen | Yes |
Flash Memory Type | SD / SDHC / SDXC |
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Memory Slots Available | 2 |
Compatible Mountings | Micro Four Thirds |
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Sensor Type | CMOS |
Image stabilization | Sensor-Shift, 5-Axis |
Maximum Aperture | 4 f |
Expanded ISO Minimum | 80 |
Photo Sensor Resolution | 20.3 MP |
Photo Sensor Size | Micro Four Thirds |
Maximum Shutter Speed | 8 seconds |
Minimum Shutter Speed | 1/8000 seconds |
Form Factor | Mirrorless |
Special Feature | Brightness Control |
Color | Black |
Item Weight | 1.6 Pounds |
Video Resolution | 4K UHD 2160p |
Viewfinder | Electronic |
Flash Modes | Red Eye Reduction, Automatic |
Camera Flash | Hot Shoe |
Skill Level | Professional |
Continuous Shooting | 12 |
Audio Input | Microphone |
Flash Sync Speed | 1/250 Second |
Video Capture Format | MP4, MOV |
Battery Weight | 1 Grams |
Delay between shots | 0.08 seconds |
Audio Output Type | Headphone |
Battery Cell Type | Lithium Ion |
Battery Type | 1 x DMW-BLF19 Rechargeable Lithium-Ion, 7.2 VDC, 1860 mAh |
Processor Description | venus engine |
Water Resistance Level | Water Resistant |
Battery Capacity | 4400 Milliamp Hours |
Aspect Ratio | 16:9 |
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File Format | JPEG, Raw |
Effective Still Resolution | 20.3 MP |
JPEG Quality Level | Basic, Fine, Normal |
Supported Image Format | AVCHD, JPEG, MP4, MPEG-4, RAW |
Optical Zoom | 1 x |
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Lens Type | Fisheye |
Zoom | Depth from Defocus |
Minimum Focal Length | 7.87 Inches |
Digital Zoom | 4 x |
Number of Diaphragm Blades | 9 |
Lens Construction | 14 Elements in 12 Groups |
Photo Filter Size | 62 Millimeters |
Connectivity Technology | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, HDMI |
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Wireless Technology | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi |
Total USB 3.0 Ports | 2 |
Total USB Ports | 2 |
Shooting Modes | Expressive, Retro, Old Days, High Key, Low Key, Sepia, Monochrome, Dynamic Monochrome, Rough Monochrome, Silky Monochrome, Impressive Art, High Dynamic, Cross Process, Toy Effect, Toy Pop, Bleach Bypass, Miniature Effect, Soft Focus, Fantasy, Star Filter, One Point Color, Sunshine |
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Digital-Still | Yes |
Movie Mode | Yes |
Night vision | No |
Auto Focus Technology | Eye Detection |
---|---|
Focus Features | AFS (Single) / AFF (Flexible) / AFC (Continuous) / MF |
Focus Type | Depth from Defocus |
Autofocus | Yes |
Warranty & Support
Feedback
Product Description
The professional grade Panasonic Lumix 4K Digital Camera DC GH5K offers over 28 Lumix and LEICA compact lens options built on the next generation interchangeable lens camera (ILC) standard (Micro Four Thirds) pioneered by Panasonic. With a durable, magnesium alloy body that’s splash/dust/freeze proof, the mirrorless design enables a lighter, more compact camera body that can go anywhere you can. The marriage of an advanced Digital Live MOS sensor with the beautiful new Venus Engine 10 produces extraordinary color detail and natural texture expression. Cutting edge features include 4K 60p (4:2:0 8 bit) and 30p (4:2:2 10 bit) in camera cinematic video, 5Ghz Wi Fi + Bluetooth for fast connection and image transfer, lightning fast DFD focusing, 5 axis dual I.S 2.0 stabilization and exposure technologies not possible with traditional DSLRs. With the exclusive Lumix 4K Photo (8MP, 30/60 fps) and brand new 6K PHOTO mode (~18MP, 30 fps), simply pause that perfect moment from video to produce printable high resolution photos. A high resolution 21mm, 0.76x OLED eye viewfinder (3680K dot) matches up to exactly how you intended to see the image even under direct sunlight. For connectivity convenience, the GH5 includes a full size (Type A) HDMI terminal with cable lock, twin SD Card slots (UHS II U3 compatible), 3.5mm microphone & headphone terminals and optional DMW XLR1 microphone adaptor. Wi-Fi IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac 5GHz Wi Fi is not available in some countries.
Customer reviews
Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.
To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.
Learn more how customers reviews work on AmazonCustomers say
Customers praise the camera's video and still photo quality, describing it as a great product that doubles as an excellent still photo camera. They appreciate its 4K 60p video and high frame rate video feature. Many find it a workhorse for videographers and photographers alike. The image stabilization is praised as great, with 5 axis sensor-based image stabilization. While many customers appreciate the camera's feature-richness, some have mixed opinions on autofocus and brightness.
AI-generated from the text of customer reviews
Customers appreciate the camera's quality. They find it a great all-around camera that doubles as an excellent still photo camera. It performs well and is comfortable in the hand. The internal audio level meters and microphone are good for this size of camera. Overall, customers consider it a powerful, versatile camera with many features.
"...However, the early results are very promising and I do believe that Panasonic has made a significant improvement in IQ over the GH4...." Read more
"...Internal audio level meters, very good mic for this size of camera onboard. Zebras, focus assist, waveform and vector scope meters are all onboard...." Read more
"...This is such a fun camera to use. I love the freedom I had with camcorders to hand-hold and not be tethered to a tripod or monopod for long periods...." Read more
"...The fact that it also doubles as an excellent still photo camera really helped justify the price as I can effectively sell my Canon camcorder and..." Read more
Customers are satisfied with the video quality of the camera. They say the 4K 60 video and 6K burst mode are amazing. The high frame rate video feature produces sharper video than the GH4 even at higher frame rates. The screen is amazing, the 4K breathtaking for such a lower price camera. While it's more geared toward video, customers still manage to capture nice images and are very happy with the camera.
"...GH5 will do everything that GH4 will do, but it adds the ability to capture 10 bit footage directly to a SD card, offers weather protection, and in-..." Read more
"...Panasonic has hit a huge home run with this camera! Cinema 4K recording at 24fps internally! 4K at 60fps 8bit 150mps internally!..." Read more
"...The image is amazing, but that's not news. What is news - and hopefully will not be overlooked - is how much this camera is amazing to use...." Read more
"...as it seems to be the smallest and cheapest thing to do amazing 4k 60 video...." Read more
Customers appreciate the camera's value for money. They find it a great option for videographers and photographers, with affordable MFT lenses. Many consider it the best camera on the market and say it can match more expensive cameras.
"...These high quality lenses are smaller and cost less than their full frame rivals to boot...." Read more
"...All in all this is an amazing camera for the price!..." Read more
"This camera is a powerhouse for the price...." Read more
"...it also doubles as an excellent still photo camera really helped justify the price as I can effectively sell my Canon camcorder and old DSLR...." Read more
Customers like the image stabilization of the camera. They say it works well, recording steady video even while walking. The 5 axis image stabilization on the sensor is a game-changer for in-camera stabilization. Overall, customers find the camera solid and well-built, with solid button placement and layout.
"...Image stability - I am very excited for the improvements - but I definitely need to do a lot of testing to see how it really performs. -..." Read more
"...There is now 5 axis image stabilization on the sensor and if you are using a lens like the Leica 12-60mm it has power IOS...." Read more
"...The stabilization is better than the A6500's as well. I took that to comic-con last year and didn't love the IBIS...." Read more
"...Highlights: - great stabilization - ability to manual focus or use auto - second screen flips out and rotates -..." Read more
Customers appreciate the camera's features. They find it versatile and user-friendly, with superb options and great color. The 10 bit 422 mode captures detail well. The drop down menu is a useful feature. Overall, customers consider it a great addition to their kit and capable of capturing good action shots in 6K/4K photo mode.
"...This camera has a lot of features, and has well more auto focus features than I am use to...." Read more
"...I can't believe the feature set on this camera, you normally only find options this deep on a true digital-cinema camera...." Read more
"...think abotu buying another one as a B Camera because it is such a versatile and user-friendly camera...." Read more
"...I love using this camera it has such an amazing drop down menu...." Read more
Customers are satisfied with the camera's quality. They mention it produces good slow motion video and still images, making it suitable for business and professional work. The camera is easy to use, well-designed, and comes in perfect condition with all accessories.
"...These high quality lenses are smaller and cost less than their full frame rivals to boot...." Read more
"...The menus are very easy to navigate and well thought out!..." Read more
"Love this camera! Plain and Simple...." Read more
"...It is still in perfect condition and I use it now as a B-cam...." Read more
Customers have different views on the autofocus. Some find it good with focus racking and flexibility of settings, as well as the dedicated focus thumb stick. Others mention subpar autofocus and slow autofocus in low light.
"...- My early footage is excellent. The continuous autofocus is improved (although I do need to run a lot more tests on this one)...." Read more
"...lowlight performance having only a slight improvement, and poor autofocus I could care less for...." Read more
"...Zebras, focus assist, waveform and vector scope meters are all onboard...." Read more
"...the best 4K color depth video camera (prosumer) BUT for the autofocus problems in keeping the main subject in focus...." Read more
Customers have mixed views on the camera's brightness. Some find it makes a substantial improvement in low-light performance from the GH4, with a bright and clear lens. Others say the low-light performance isn't great and high ISOs introduce grain.
"...the view finder flips out, up, down and forward toward the lens is super bright and clear and also a touchscreen!..." Read more
"...But in good lighting, the 6K burst shot is pretty amazing in the right situations, and time lapse features are great...." Read more
"...Cons: -Not Great in Low-Light (though improved over the GH4)..." Read more
"...The ISO power blew me away, it can practically see in the dark now with no noticeable noise...." Read more
Reviews with images

One Camera to Rule Them All?
Top reviews from the United States
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- Reviewed in the United States on April 4, 2017Style: Body OnlySet: BaseVerified PurchaseI will update this review as time goes on. At this point I have only experimented with the camera for several hours, but I already have enough information to form a solid foundation for a review (I have also used the GH4 for a few years).
I run a small video production company, and for years I have used the GH4 for capturing high quality video. The problem is that every video shoot also requires several high quality/professional photographs. While the GH4 excelled in capturing video as a true camera it always came up short. As a result, I was always forced to lug my Nikon D750 around with me. I would travel with two cameras, and two sets of lenses. Occasionally, I would substitute the Nikon for my Fujix100T or I would substitute the GH4 for my Osmo Pro (recently it has been more of the later).
What I need... want... would love .... is camera to do all of it. I guess I could invest in the FF Sony, but the idea of investing in a 3rd set of lenses doesn't exactly excite me. At some point.... either the video on the Olympus will come up... or the photo stills on the Panasonic will improve...right? Based on my tests - I think the GH5 will become my Holy Grail of cameras. I have 0% doubt that it will perform for video (and my the couple of tests I have run look very favorable), but my worry was IQ. The new 20.3MP resolution has me hopeful that the GH5 will become my one camera for all purposes.
Photos - Again - I will update this as time goes on
- The upgraded sensor seems to make a large difference.In the photos I attached the 1st picture was taken at ISO 400 while the rest were at ISO 1600. Frankly, I always got nervous taking my GH4 above ISO 800 the noise and grain really started to become noticeable. The GH5 looks very usable at ISO 1600 ( I need to check ISO 3200 a little closer). For full disclosure the ISO 1600 shots were taken with the Panasonic Leica f1.2 42.5mm gem of a lens.
This is a good point for a tangent,. The reason why i like the MFT format (in addition to the cameras being physically smaller) there are some very excellent lenses out there. I would stack the Olymous Zuiko lenses up against the branded Nikon lenses any day of the week. In addition, ignoring the difference in focal length my Panasonic/Leica f1.2 42.5 rivals my Otus f1.4 55mm for my Nikon (plus it has vibration reduction AND autofocus - eat your heart out Sigma). These high quality lenses are smaller and cost less than their full frame rivals to boot. Now there are some poor lenses too, but if you are willing to pay a little more I have found all of the Panny/Leica and Olympus Zuiko lenses to be very, very good.
Other notes -
- If you shoot in RAW and use Lightroom you will have to update to 6.9.
- The autofocus really is improved. It is very fast on the point.
- Has the ability to do focus stacking - I haven't tried this yet - but it is a very interesting function.
- Shooting manual is a breeze - I am not sure why Nikon can't copy Panasonic's focus peaking, but if they could... they should. I mentioned I owned the Otus f1.4 55mm.... that lenses would be soooooo much more useful if Nikon offered a similar type of focus peaking.
- Low light performance - others may disagree, but I do think that it is better than the GH4. I have very good stills at ISO 1600. However, this might be a counter-intuitive since Panasonic is using the same sized sensor but increasing the resolution. In order for the camera to have better low light performance and higher resolution would require either significantly better algorithms and/or improvements on the actual sensor gathers the light.
- Button placement and layout are still very solid. it is easy to navigate WB and ISO settings without moving your eyes (much more difficult on my Nikon D750).
- No built in flash. Honestly, I can not remember the last time I used a built in flash.
- The camera is not too much larger than the GH4, but it is noticeably heavier. This camera is dense, and while it still has an advantage over my full frame it's losing ground here.
Video-
- My early footage is excellent. The continuous autofocus is improved (although I do need to run a lot more tests on this one). I loved shooting footage with my GH4, but I usually filmed in manual focus. I never fully trusted the GH4 autofocus - it seemed to spend too much time searching.
- The ability to shoot at 180 FPS (you have first select a variable frame rate to get into this menu).
- Out of the box it will allow you to record 10 bit straight to SD card (I recommend the new high transfer rate cards).
- Image stability - I am very excited for the improvements - but I definitely need to do a lot of testing to see how it really performs.
- In short... for video the GH5 will do everything that GH4 will do, but it adds the ability to capture 10 bit footage directly to a SD card, offers weather protection, and in-body stabilization
- The screen and viewfinder are excellent.
Final Verdict - Again, I will have to update this review - there is MUCH still to be covered (especially for video). However, the early results are very promising and I do believe that Panasonic has made a significant improvement in IQ over the GH4. I may be naive, but I just ASSUMED it would be great for video (minor improvements in the GH4 would have helped maintain its status). The GH5 is roughly double the price of the GH4 so you will need to understand if the photo improvements and the upgrades in video are really worth it to you. For me... it is a no-brainer.... and I am optimistic that for now on I will be carrying just one camera with me!
5 Stars
I will update this review as time goes on. At this point I have only experimented with the camera for several hours, but I already have enough information to form a solid foundation for a review (I have also used the GH4 for a few years).
I run a small video production company, and for years I have used the GH4 for capturing high quality video. The problem is that every video shoot also requires several high quality/professional photographs. While the GH4 excelled in capturing video as a true camera it always came up short. As a result, I was always forced to lug my Nikon D750 around with me. I would travel with two cameras, and two sets of lenses. Occasionally, I would substitute the Nikon for my Fujix100T or I would substitute the GH4 for my Osmo Pro (recently it has been more of the later).
What I need... want... would love .... is camera to do all of it. I guess I could invest in the FF Sony, but the idea of investing in a 3rd set of lenses doesn't exactly excite me. At some point.... either the video on the Olympus will come up... or the photo stills on the Panasonic will improve...right? Based on my tests - I think the GH5 will become my Holy Grail of cameras. I have 0% doubt that it will perform for video (and my the couple of tests I have run look very favorable), but my worry was IQ. The new 20.3MP resolution has me hopeful that the GH5 will become my one camera for all purposes.
Photos - Again - I will update this as time goes on
- The upgraded sensor seems to make a large difference.In the photos I attached the 1st picture was taken at ISO 400 while the rest were at ISO 1600. Frankly, I always got nervous taking my GH4 above ISO 800 the noise and grain really started to become noticeable. The GH5 looks very usable at ISO 1600 ( I need to check ISO 3200 a little closer). For full disclosure the ISO 1600 shots were taken with the Panasonic Leica f1.2 42.5mm gem of a lens.
This is a good point for a tangent,. The reason why i like the MFT format (in addition to the cameras being physically smaller) there are some very excellent lenses out there. I would stack the Olymous Zuiko lenses up against the branded Nikon lenses any day of the week. In addition, ignoring the difference in focal length my Panasonic/Leica f1.2 42.5 rivals my Otus f1.4 55mm for my Nikon (plus it has vibration reduction AND autofocus - eat your heart out Sigma). These high quality lenses are smaller and cost less than their full frame rivals to boot. Now there are some poor lenses too, but if you are willing to pay a little more I have found all of the Panny/Leica and Olympus Zuiko lenses to be very, very good.
Other notes -
- If you shoot in RAW and use Lightroom you will have to update to 6.9.
- The autofocus really is improved. It is very fast on the point.
- Has the ability to do focus stacking - I haven't tried this yet - but it is a very interesting function.
- Shooting manual is a breeze - I am not sure why Nikon can't copy Panasonic's focus peaking, but if they could... they should. I mentioned I owned the Otus f1.4 55mm.... that lenses would be soooooo much more useful if Nikon offered a similar type of focus peaking.
- Low light performance - others may disagree, but I do think that it is better than the GH4. I have very good stills at ISO 1600. However, this might be a counter-intuitive since Panasonic is using the same sized sensor but increasing the resolution. In order for the camera to have better low light performance and higher resolution would require either significantly better algorithms and/or improvements on the actual sensor gathers the light.
- Button placement and layout are still very solid. it is easy to navigate WB and ISO settings without moving your eyes (much more difficult on my Nikon D750).
- No built in flash. Honestly, I can not remember the last time I used a built in flash.
- The camera is not too much larger than the GH4, but it is noticeably heavier. This camera is dense, and while it still has an advantage over my full frame it's losing ground here.
Video-
- My early footage is excellent. The continuous autofocus is improved (although I do need to run a lot more tests on this one). I loved shooting footage with my GH4, but I usually filmed in manual focus. I never fully trusted the GH4 autofocus - it seemed to spend too much time searching.
- The ability to shoot at 180 FPS (you have first select a variable frame rate to get into this menu).
- Out of the box it will allow you to record 10 bit straight to SD card (I recommend the new high transfer rate cards).
- Image stability - I am very excited for the improvements - but I definitely need to do a lot of testing to see how it really performs.
- In short... for video the GH5 will do everything that GH4 will do, but it adds the ability to capture 10 bit footage directly to a SD card, offers weather protection, and in-body stabilization
- The screen and viewfinder are excellent.
Final Verdict - Again, I will have to update this review - there is MUCH still to be covered (especially for video). However, the early results are very promising and I do believe that Panasonic has made a significant improvement in IQ over the GH4. I may be naive, but I just ASSUMED it would be great for video (minor improvements in the GH4 would have helped maintain its status). The GH5 is roughly double the price of the GH4 so you will need to understand if the photo improvements and the upgrades in video are really worth it to you. For me... it is a no-brainer.... and I am optimistic that for now on I will be carrying just one camera with me!
5 Stars
Images in this review
- Reviewed in the United States on May 19, 2017Style: Body OnlySet: BaseVerified PurchaseThe LUMIX GH5 is a dream come true! Panasonic has hit a huge home run with this camera! Cinema 4K recording at 24fps internally! 4K at 60fps 8bit 150mps internally! 400mps with update coming soon! 180fps in full 1080 FHD internally! The slow motion on this camera is buttery smooth! The size and grip is fantastic! What it's raining out? No problem this camera with the Leica 12-60mm lens is water resistant! It's also free resistant for shooting in low temperatures! Battery life is way better than the Sony's but not as good as the GH4 with how fast this camera processes it uses more juice. So be sure to pick up some spare batteries. Dual memory cards that can be hot swapped so you can continue constant recording with no overheating! Very grainless recording up to 1600 ISO. With additional purchase you can shoot in VlogL with a dynamic range of 12 stops when shooting at a native ISO of 400. Internal audio level meters, very good mic for this size of camera onboard. Zebras, focus assist, waveform and vector scope meters are all onboard. There are many customizable buttons and the view finder flips out, up, down and forward toward the lens is super bright and clear and also a touchscreen! The menus are very easy to navigate and well thought out! There is now 5 axis image stabilization on the sensor and if you are using a lens like the Leica 12-60mm it has power IOS. So you get two levels of stabilization working together. What does that mean? That means you can walk and record rock steady video! There has been a lot of controversy over the autofocus but I have found if you put it on either face detect or single point and press the shutter half way down to get it to lock on first it works very well. All in all this is an amazing camera for the price! For all the features and how well this works in the field I'd be happy if I spent twice the price! Go create something amazing!
Top reviews from other countries
- P.A.MierasReviewed in Canada on October 20, 2023
5.0 out of 5 stars A great camera that lives up to it reputation
Style: w/ 12-60mmSet: BaseVerified PurchasePart of my work is wildlife filming particularly underwater. I got the GH5 together with a Nauticam housing and have used it many times on professional broadcast shoots ands well as for stock footage production. The micro 4/3 makes it easy to travel with, compared to some large broadcast dedicated systems. As I use it together with the Ninja V recorder it meets many tier 2 camera requirements of broadcasters and I have shot entire broadcast productions on it. I will not review the entirety of the camera options but here is a overview of what I like and what could be improved
What I like:
Great stabilization with the Leica 12-60 lens (even better on the mark 2 version)
Full HMDI out allowing 10 bit raw footage to an external recorder
Double card slot allowing either long recording sessions or a backup recording on one of the cards in case of card failure
Small but sturdy body
What can be improved:
The on/off button is THE weak point of the camera and I have had it break (after many many uses). should be made or better materials
Vlog should be included (is on the Mark 2 version)
Autofocus can be slower in low light / contrast situation
I bought the camera specifically for underwater and wildlife filming and it has served me very well. I recently bought the mark 2 version and still use the GH5 for my work.
P.A.MierasA great camera that lives up to it reputation
Reviewed in Canada on October 20, 2023
What I like:
Great stabilization with the Leica 12-60 lens (even better on the mark 2 version)
Full HMDI out allowing 10 bit raw footage to an external recorder
Double card slot allowing either long recording sessions or a backup recording on one of the cards in case of card failure
Small but sturdy body
What can be improved:
The on/off button is THE weak point of the camera and I have had it break (after many many uses). should be made or better materials
Vlog should be included (is on the Mark 2 version)
Autofocus can be slower in low light / contrast situation
I bought the camera specifically for underwater and wildlife filming and it has served me very well. I recently bought the mark 2 version and still use the GH5 for my work.
Images in this review
- DanReviewed in Canada on February 3, 2025
5.0 out of 5 stars Bought in 2017 - still delivering to this day.
Style: Body OnlySet: BaseVerified PurchaseThis has been my workhorse, incredibly capable, I own 2 of them. There's expected roll-offs in highlights / shadows but when you can control your lighting - it delivers beautiful images.
Have upgraded to a Sony FX3 as a main, and still using GH5 as B-Cams
- Capital CReviewed in Canada on June 2, 2019
5.0 out of 5 stars Absolutely love it
Style: Body OnlySet: BaseVerified PurchaseThe design and construction of the body are excellent, the build quality is superb, and everything feels like it's in the right place. With the exception of the placement of the DISP button, I love so much about this camera. From numerous video options, to decent still performance, to customizability of the controls - it's a great choice for hobbyists or pros.
There are plenty of complaints or negatives about the autofocus, but since the v2.4 firmware, it's greatly improved. While it can't compete with dual-pixel focussing, it can still hold its own and has many other merits over similarly priced bodies.
2020 Update: It's been a year since my review and my rating stands. I've found some things I'd wish this camera did, but doesn't (eg. charge or self-power over the USB-C connector, or the function to use it as a webcam - a vital tool for COVID-times), and many things that this camera DOES but the competition still has troubles doing in their latest and greatest models (such as not overheating when filming in 4K!) This is still a video powerhouse in 2020 and the still-photo capabilities are solid for the price.
One person found this helpfulReport - babkjlReviewed in Canada on February 16, 2018
5.0 out of 5 stars Stunningly Beautiful 60 Frames Per Second UHD Videos
Style: Body OnlySet: BaseVerified PurchaseRather than discuss how this camera compares to other similar cameras, I'll focus on my experiences moving up from a smaller camera. My previous choices were all about small size and high built in zoom: if you don't have a camera with you because it's a big nuisance, it's useless. I'm currently using this camera with a Panasonic H-H020A LUMIX G Ultra-Portable Pancake Lens, 20mm/F1.7 ASPH F1.7. The zoom is very close to what the eye sees. Instead of lugging a big expensive zoom lens around on this camera, my wife now carries our small zoom camera. I haven't missed the zoom: just move closer. The camera pouch I bought (DURAGADGET Lightweight & Ultra-Portable Carry Case) still permits carrying this camera with pancake lens on a belt loop. I am now carrying this camera either in a backpack with tripod, directly on the tripod, or by the handle of the pouch when I'm not wearing a belt. I'm a smallest aperture, low ISO (400 appears to be the camera's native sensitivity), long shutter time kind of guy. I cycle my photographs on a large screen TV (on when we're home) at 30 second intervals using the Kodi program fed from a dedicated home theater computer that is running 24/7. Blurry backgrounds in portrait photos on the large screen annoy me and I set up to prevent them. This means using a tripod with the 10 second delay and manually focusing on the person while also viewing a sharp background. In manual focus mode this camera shows a lot of sparkly blue dots for the areas that are in focus and has an option for a digital zoom in on the important area to help with sharp focusing. The 2 second delay for stills without a tripod works very well and is my default. When shooting with manual aperture and manual shutter, these options are easily operated by the top and rear rotation wheels. I just leave the aperture at 16. There is a simple bar graph that shows the optimal shutter speed required. If it gets down to 1/60 second, then I know a tripod is required. If the light is low and I don't have a tripod, then I switch the camera to automatic and just have to accept the resulting graininess and reduced depth of field of the image. I use the built in digital viewfinder with the very helpful horizontal level as the flip out panel acts like a wind sail. The 4K (actually UHD) video recording at 60 frames per second is the main reason I selected this camera. It works great as long as the camera is situated on a heavy tripod that prevents wind vibration. The videos do have some trouble with high ISO graininess early in the sunrises and late in the sunsets. I keep a circular polarizing filter on the camera except when the light is low, or the shots are indoors. Daylight UHD videos are stunningly beautiful and clearly exceed UHD broadcast quality. I tried the 400 Mbps video mode, but it steps down to 30 frames per second and I couldn't see any difference in the color quality on my new TV. The difference between 60 fps and 30 fps is very noticeable and I always use the 60 fps selection. A fabulous camera that I would buy again and doesn't need a big nuisance lens.
- Amazon CustomerReviewed in Canada on January 27, 2020
5.0 out of 5 stars Best price I could find for a new GH5
Style: Body OnlySet: BaseVerified PurchaseI couldn't even find a used GH5 for this price. So I was very impressed. It all came in and was packaged well with good supports so nothing could be damaged. I placed the battery in and it all works fine with the 2.5 firmware. Very happy with my new purchase.