Under the LUMIX brand, Panasonic makes the best cameras, including point-and-shoots, DSLRs, and mirrorless models. The business is renowned for collaborating with Olympus to standardize and create the Micro Four Thirds (MFT) system of cameras and lenses.
In order to start manufacturing cameras that adhere to Leica's L-mount standard, Panasonic also joined the L-Mount Alliance in 2018. As a result of this cooperation, Panasonic has started to expand its full-frame camera lineup while still providing a wide range of MFT, bridge, and compact cameras to accommodate different price points and skill levels.
Read more information about What is a DSLR camera?
Expert’s Choice
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Best vlogging camera: Panasonic LUMIX G100
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Best camera for filmmaker: Panasonic Lumix GH6
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Best budget camera: Panasonic LUMIX GX85
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Best consumer video camera: Panasonic LUMIX GH5
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Best camera for enthusiasts: Panasonic LUMIX G9
- Best camera all round for features: Panasonic LUMIX G85
Reviews
1. Panasonic Lumix G100
The more recent Panasonic vlogging camera is also a capable still camera
Product’s Specifications
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Brand: Panasonic
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Model Name: DC-G100VK
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Form Factor: Mirrorless
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Effective Still Resolution: 20.3 MP
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Special Feature: Venus Engine Processor; Built-In Flash; 5-Axis Hybrid Image Stabilization; OZO Audio with Subject Tracking; Vlogging UI
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Optical Zoom: 2 x
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Color: Black
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Connectivity Technology: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi
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Screen Size: 3 Inches
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Photo Sensor Size: Micro Four Thirds
Product’s Highlights
Although the Panasonic Lumix G100 is a cute small camera, is there a need for another model in the Lumix G line? One could argue that the Lumix brand has done more than any other to fuel the growth of vlogging.
Panasonic, one of the top developers in video-capable digital cameras, has a wide selection of models that might replace the brand-new G100. You might be asking why there's even a need for another camera in this crowded market, though, if you're familiar with the Lumix G and GH series of cameras.
But with platforms like YouTube, Twitter, and TikTok continuing to dominate consumer internet use, every camera maker is contending for the attention of a constantly expanding group of content producers.
Reasons to buy
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High-quality stills and video
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Capabilities for intelligent audio recording
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Flexible LCD and a bright EVF
Reasons to avoid
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Lack of internal stability
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Not a USB-C port or headphone jack
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No 4K/60p
Product Summary
Vloggers and other creatives will appreciate the Lumix G100's simplicity. With its user-friendly button layout, it makes it simple to take high-quality video and still images. With this camera, even those uninterested in the technical aspects of shooting beautiful videos can get good results.
When designing a camera for social media creatives, there is a risk of oversimplifying things, but Panasonic has escaped that trap with the Lumix G100. The ergonomics of a "real camera" and a respectable viewfinder are two ways Panasonic has given the G100 an advantage in a very competitive market.
2. Panasonic Lumix GH6
The best consumer-level filmmaking camera is also a fantastic hybrid
Product’s Specifications
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Brand: Panasonic
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Model Name: DC-GH6LK
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Form Factor: Compact, Mirrorless
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Special Feature: Image Stabilization
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Screen Size: 3 Inches
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Item Weight: 11.92 Pounds
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Video Capture Resolution: 2160p
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Camera Flash: Studio
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Skill Level: Professional
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Compatible Mountings: Micro Four Thirds
Product’s Highlights
Customers who previously owned Micro-Four-Thirds cameras, particularly those who enjoyed the GH-series, make up the bulk of the market for this camera. Then there are independent video-focused makers who place equal priority on both filmic quality and usability.
In actuality, there are no longer any subpar cameras. The ideal equipment for the task. Blind loyalty to a system or brand can prevent you from using equipment that might be perfectly suited to your shooting preferences and style to explore your creative potential. So let's examine the Lumix GH6 honestly, identifying its strengths and weaknesses.
Reasons to buy
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Internal recording options that are unmatched
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Superior stabilization
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Filmmaker-first design
Reasons to avoid
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Battery life might be improved
Product Summary
The Lumix GH6 is a historic camera, a statement we make neither casually nor frequently. Is it flawless? No. However, does it provide a compelling collection of features that are just unmatched at its price range? Without a doubt. We examined the Lumix GH6 in this review from the standpoint of someone who makes videos, whether as a profession or a serious hobby.
3. Panasonic LUMIX GX85
A fantastic entry-level viewfinder-equipped Lumix G that is pocket-friendly
Product’s Specifications
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Brand: Panasonic
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Model Name Panasonic: Lumix GX85
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Form Factor: Compact, Mirrorless
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Effective Still Resolution: 16 MP
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Special Feature: Wireless
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Optical Zoom: 1 x
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Color: Black
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Connectivity Technology: Wi-Fi
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Flash Memory Type: SDXC
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Item Weight: 5.75 Pounds
Product’s Highlights
The Panasonic Lumix G85 packs a ton of high-tech capabilities into its small, compact body at an incredible price, whether it is used with or without its clever little 12-32mm kit zoom lens. These include 4K ultra-high definition for both video and quick-fire stills, 5-axis image stabilization, Light Speed AF, Post Focus, and other features found in Panasonic's top-tier cameras.
A tilting touchscreen and a high-resolution electronic viewfinder are also included in the camera's rear. This is a great option if you want a camera with a lot of performance and features but a small construction and affordable price. It's a fantastic travel camera, and because of its low cost, it's also a fantastic first camera.
Reasons to buy
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Little but with EVF
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Decent bargain
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8 frames per second nonstop
Reasons to avoid
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Comparatively small 16MP
Product Summary
In terms of modern cameras, the Lumix GX85 is not very impressive. It sports a very small 16MP Micro Four Thirds mirrorless sensor, was released back in 2016, can shoot 4K video, has Panasonic's innovative 8MP 4K photo capabilities, and even includes an electronic viewfinder.
If you're only interested in megapixels, you probably won't be impressed, but it's important to note that since the sensor lacks an anti-aliasing filter, the images will appear slightly crisper.
4. Panasonic LUMIX GH5
One of the best consumer video cameras ever is released
Product’s Specifications
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Brand: Panasonic
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Model Name Panasonic: Lumix GH5
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Form Factor: Compact
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Effective Still Resolution: 20.3 MP
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Special Feature: Time-lapse
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Connectivity Technology: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB, HDMI
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Screen Size: 3.2 Inches
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Photo Sensor Size: Micro Four Thirds
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Shooting Modes: Automatic
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Flash Memory Type: SD Card
Product’s Highlights
One of the best consumer video cameras you could get was the original Panasonic Lumix GH5. Even though the more recent Lumix GH6 is also available, this is actually a pretty little update overall, but the video functions it does include make it worth considering for individuals who generate video material.
The stabilization system offers compensating steps up to 6.5EV, which is quite helpful (while not everyone likes the smaller Four Thirds sensors, they are easier to stabilize). Additionally, it supports live streaming, and the video focusing is excellent. This is an excellent purchase that is less expensive than the Lumix GH6 if you're seeking for a new mirrorless filmmaking camera. It's also not a slouch when it comes to stills!
Reasons to buy
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Picture stabilization of 6.5 stops
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Numerous improvements to the video
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V-Log L is comprised
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Larger stills buffer
Reasons to avoid
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Lager 3-inch screen
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Greater battery yet smaller gai
Product Summary
The GH5 was a pioneer in the development of hybrid stills/video cameras, and its 4K 60p recording capabilities are still impressive today. The GH5 therefore has a challenging task, and unavoidably, some will think Panasonic hasn't gone far enough.
Additionally, the still-under-development Panasonic GH6 is anticipated to become the new flagship powerhouse in the Lumix G lineup. For Panasonic aficionados, who may already find it difficult to decide between the versatile Panasonic Lumix G9 and more video-focused cameras like these, this does further complicate matters.
5. Panasonic LUMIX G9
A powerful yet portable camera made for hobbyists
Product’s Specifications
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Brand: Panasonic
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Model Name: PANASONIC LUMIX G9 Mirrorless Camera with LUMIX G VARIO 12-60mm F3.5-5.6 Lens – DC-G9MK
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Form Factor: Compact, Mirrorless
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Effective Still Resolution: 21.77 MP
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Optical Zoom: 3 x
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Color: Black
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Connectivity Technology: USB, HDMI
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Screen Size: 3 Inches
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Photo Sensor Size: Micro Four Thirds
Product’s Highlights
Instead of a bulkier DSLR-style design, its slim body has a high-res electronic viewfinder incorporated into the back. Both the rear screen and the viewfinder have a tilt feature that makes them useful for shooting from any angle.
With a newly developed 20.3MP sensor, the G9 offers the same resolution as the G90/G95 and Lumix G9 in a significantly smaller camera, despite its diminutive size. Other features include 4K capture for both video and quick-fire images, as well as 5-axis sensor-shift stabilization.
The G9 is perfect for use with Panasonic's compact lenses and traveling.
Reasons to buy
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Touchscreen and a viewfinder that tilts
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High MFT 20.3MP count
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Hybrid stabilization
Reasons to avoid
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Less manageable than models in the DSLR type
Product Summary
The G9 is the right choice if you want a camera that is smaller and more portable than Panasonic's DSLR-style models without sacrificing technology or functionality.
The finest Panasonic camera selection process
There are several features and functions to think about when purchasing a Panasonic camera.
- What kind of camera are you looking for first? A Lumix G series mirrorless camera or a high-end Lumix compact camera will probably best meet your needs if you're looking for one with a smaller sensor, smaller body, smaller lenses, and (usually) a cheaper price tag. The best Micro Four Thirds lenses, including the best zoom lenses, are compatible with Panasonic's mirrorless cameras because they are a part of the Micro Four Thirds system.
- A full-frame Lumix S series mirrorless camera might be more your style if your budget is higher and you have higher standards for image quality, especially in difficult lighting conditions. Panasonic's S series models, marketed toward serious hobbyists and professionals in both photo and video, are often larger, heavier, and more expensive than their G series counterparts and have larger sensors and high-quality lenses.
- All models of Panasonic cameras have additional factors to take into account. For those wishing to photograph fast-moving objects like sport or wildlife, autofocus and continuous shooting speed are crucial factors to take into account. ISO is a measure of light sensitivity (with higher ISO models typically working better in low light circumstances).
- In-body image stabilization, or IBIS, is something else to watch out for. It is available on many of the Panasonic cameras listed below and ensures that you receive some motion compensation regardless of the lens that is attached, which is crucial when taking films or images while holding a camera in your hand or when utilizing longer exposures in low light. While some cameras without IBIS can nevertheless benefit from image stabilization, this stabilization may be digital-based (resulting in a forced crop) or lens-dependent.
If you're still trying to decide between DSLRs and mirrorless cameras, see our article on which is better. Here, therefore, is our list of the top Panasonic cameras available today.
Final Thought
The best consumer options for cutting-edge video and filmmaking features are the best Panasonic cameras. Although the company is still very new to the full-frame camera business, in the mirrorless sector it has already established itself as a serious rival to Sony and Fujifilm. Panasonic is still one of the few companies to consider if you want to buy a Micro Four Thirds camera. Because of its partnership with Olympus in the MFT market and membership in the L-Mount Alliance, purchasing one of these systems also expands your lens possibilities, making Panasonic a more affordable camera brand to purchase.