The new 4K photo mode on the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G7 allows you to take 8MP photos easier than ever before. It is a step above its predecessor, the G6, in every conceivable way. Its biggest drawback is the inability to capture moving objects very effectively because of slow autofocus, but the other features are solid. Check out our list if you’re on the market for the best mirrorless camera. With the best mirrorless camera, you might also want to read our guide to the X-Cap.
Why We Like It – Panasonic Lumix G7
The Panasonic Lumix G7 is a mirrorless camera that is trying hard, and succeeding, in creating a foothold in the mirrorless camera world. It may not offer all the fancy bells and whistles a Sony camera might offer, but it’s still a high-performance camera with an engaging price point that enthusiasts and newbies will both enjoy. If you also use your smartphone as a camera sometimes, you’ll love this iStabilizer dolly for smartphones. Shopping around for a 20.3MP light MOS Micro Four Thirds sensor mirrorless camera? Read our Panasonic Lumix G9 review.
- High Dynamic Range
- Silent and Responsive Electronic Shutter
- Micro Four Thirds Gives Access to a variety of lenses
- Video Capture of moving objects isn’t too good
- Some Noise in low light scenarios
- Record Button Sometimes Becomes Unresponsive
Performance
Unlike the Panasonic Lumix ZS50, the dynamic range on this digital camera is good and is able to provide a wide range of tones up to and including ISO 6400. The Panasonic G7 compares favorably to other mirrorless cameras on its level like the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II in this case. Image quality is also high. The highest among all Panasonic cameras. However, because the Lumix DMC-G7’s auto focus operates in video mode it’s a little slow meaning video recording of things moving towards or away from you isn’t recommended. For a camera that doesn’t record video, you might like the GE Power Pro X500.
Design
The electronic shutter on the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G7 shoots at a shutter speed of 1/16,000 and is completely silent. It also comes with an electronic viewfinder like its predecessor, the G6, and it’s always clear with plenty of detail although noise seems to seep through in low light situations. The Sony A7 III performs admirably in low-light situations though. It also comes with the same kit lens as the GX7 which is becoming a staple for Panasonic and one memory card slot for a UHS-I SD card.
Value
4K burst mode can be used with any exposure and in 4K burst shooting it’s possible to use image ratios of 16:9, 4:3, 3:2, and 1:1. It continues for as long as the shutter button is held down. The Lumix G7 also uses a quad-core CPU for better processing and full HD continuous shooting at 8fps or 6fps with live view. The four-thirds image sensor also gives it the ability to use an extensive set of lenses not just from Panasonic. If you’re craving access to lenses, try the Nikon Z6 Camera as it has access to all of Nikon’s best lenses. The current price point for the Panasonic Lumix G7 is $598, which is an absolute bargain.
Panasonic Lumix G7 Wrap Up
The system camera has been greatly improved over its predecessor, the G6, and anyone who already owns one would do well to upgrade. The attractive $598 price point means it’s not so much of an investment compared to other cameras (looking at you Sony) and it will last you for quite a while.
