Panasonic Lumix GH5
Announced January 4, 2017
PixelMeter The PixelMeter is our 1–100 aggregate of reviewer scores from trusted publications and creators. Weighted by source tier — not a raw average, and not PetaPixel’s own review.
Reviewer Consensus
Exceptional
The Panasonic Lumix GH5 is a robust hybrid camera that excels in delivering professional-grade 4K video capabilities alongside improved stills performance. While its larger size and complex menu system may require an adjustment period, it remains a highly capable workhorse for creators seeking consistent performance.
Weighted from 37 reviewer scores
Pros
- Advanced video features including 10-bit 4:2:2 recording, 4K/60p, and no record limits
- Rugged, weather-sealed magnesium alloy body with excellent ergonomics
- Highly effective 5-axis in-body image stabilization
- Dual UHS-II SD card slots for improved workflow
- Bright, high-resolution electronic viewfinder
Cons
- Inconsistent autofocus performance, particularly in video and tracking scenarios
- Mediocre low-light performance and shadow noise
- Lacks convenient features like built-in flash and USB charging
- Larger and heavier physical footprint compared to other Micro Four Thirds cameras
- Complex, non-intuitive menu system
- Launch price $1,999 (USD)
- Sensor 20.3MP Micro Four Thirds CMOS
- Video 4K 60p
- Stabilization In-body IS, 5 stops (CIPA)
What the Reviewers Say
All 37 expert reviews, weighted into the PixelMeter score.
Is this product missing a reputable review? Share a link to a review article or YouTube video for consideration.
- DPReview 85/100
The Panasonic GH5 is a camera oriented at videographers, and includes features often found on more expensive pro video gear.
-
The best video camera in its price class (and perhaps even well above it) The Panasonic GH5 is a wonderful successor to an already great hybrid still & video camera, and the new features and performance make it far more valuable than its $2000 price tag.
-
Panasonic's Lumix GH5 is a worthy flagship body, greatly extending the quality and capabilities of the earlier GH4.
-
Panasonic’s GH range has long catered for those with a particular interest in video and the GH5 continues this trend. That said, its still image capabilities have also seen big improvements over the GH4.
-
Would you say that this is your favorite camera under 10 grand? Yeah, I've been saying that a lot, absolutely.
-
The Panasonic Lumix GH5 features a 20 megapixel Micro Four Thirds sensor, with sensor based 5-axis image stabilisation, combined with the lens' optical image stabilisation, which gives benefits for both stills photography and video recording.
-
The Panasonic Lumix GH4 proved to be a runaway success when it was released back in 2014, so Panasonic certainly had a tough act to follow with the new GH5.
-
The Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5 is the mirrorless camera to get for 4K video, but if you're more concerned about stills, it's not a clear-cut winner.
-
While the last couple of GH-series cameras have felt a little like video cameras masquerading as stills camera, the Panasonic Lumix GH5 is a much more rounded piece of kit.
-
The Panasonic Lumix GH5 is a feature rich camera. It shoots 10-bit 4:2:2 DCI 4K video and doesn't need a lens with image stabilization to get a steady shot.
-
We use a combination of a lot of different cameras, but the Panasonic Lumix GH5 is the main camera that we use, and thank you Panasonic for making a camera that's a workhorse for somebody who Produces hundreds of videos every year, we need something to depend upon.
-
This is just it simply is one of the best cameras that I've ever used.
- Digital Trends 9/10
In our hands-on experience, the GH5 lived up to the big expectations set by the long list of specifications, both as a still camera and a video camera.
-
Let's just say sell your GH4 and get this already.
-
The GH5 is a camera I really enjoyed using and reviewing. It’s one of the best, if not the best mirrorless when it comes to ease of use.
-
There is so much more to great video than resolution and sensor size, and if you want to start taking your footage to the next level, I think the Panasonic Lumix GH5 might be the right camera to help you do that.
- Photo Review 9.1/10
As noted in our First Look review, the GH5 is a pleasure to use and photographers who like to shoot both stills and movies will find it a top-flight performer in both areas.
-
Sure, it might be pipped in stills quality by the Fuji X-T2, but for video features and quality the Lumix GH5 is untouchable at this price point.
-
This camera is not worth the expense if your interest is only in photography, but as a hybrid stills and video camera it’s way ahead of the competition.
-
The GH5’s only weakness (and it’s a fairly minor one) is its middling performance in low light situations.
-
Yes I think it is worth to buy GH5 even for let's call them advanced amateurs. It is a bit pricey camera but once you realize what can be done with it and learn how to get best possible results you will be glad you have it.
-
[...] Panasonic GH5 is still one of the most capable all-around usable cameras on the market. It has been significantly improved by the firmware updates, and it is much better camera than it was three years ago, especially the autofocus is completely different experience.
-
The Panasonic GH5 is a great camera. It has application for stills, surely, with fabulous dynamic range and smooth, creamy tones.
-
If you're looking into the Panasonic Lumix GH5, I hope this gave you a different perspective on the camera, and so far I'm giving the camera two thumbs up. It's just a really nice one, so definitely consider it for yourself, test it out, see if it's a good fit for you.
-
So let me tell you just a few more things that really stood out to me and kind of pushed me over the edge and just made me say, "All right, I'm going to buy at least three of these cameras." I pre-ordered three of these cameras.
-
As a photographer, I aimed for and bought a high-end many years ago. The beast is still in my possession, and it is still my main camera.
-
If you’re into general filmmaking and you seek 4K video recording on prosumer level, the Panasonic GH5 is the best choice on the market right now.
-
It's far from perfect, but more than good enough to blow us away. And we barely feel like we've scratched the surface of the GH5's capabilities in our short time with it.
- channelnews 5.0/5.0
It’s a rare that well and truly delivers the best of both worlds. Whether you’re looking to shoot stills or pro-grade video, it’s well worth a look – especially if you fall into that “prosumer” category that everyone in the camera world is going after these days.
-
Bought by stills photographer purely for stills, the Panasonic Lumix GH5 stands out with the very best in the micro 4/3 system.
- SmartHouse 5.0/5.0
It’s a rare that well and truly delivers the best of both worlds. Whether you’re looking to shoot stills or pro-grade video, it’s well worth a look – especially if you fall into that “prosumer” category that everyone in the camera world is going after these days.
-
It will be my main camera going forward for the foreseeable future.
-
The Panasonic Lumix GH5 is an outstanding camera – the specs and features have been improved across the board from the GH4 – with welcome additions like broadcast quality 4K footage, 5-axis in-camera image stabilisation, and 6K PHOTO.
-
In my opinion, this is one of the best, all-round, fun and exciting cameras I have used.
- The AU Review 9/10
It may not boast the features that so many shiny new cameras do, but the Lumix GH5 isn’t about being flashy – it’s about being hardworking, high performing and consistent, and I would gladly welcome it into my camera family.
-
I’ve gone on enough, so I’ll keep this short and sweet. It’s a great camera, with a few shortcomings.
-
It's my favorite one of 2017 so far.
