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Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 Comparison

Optics
Video
Features
Storage & Battery

Canon EOS 5D Mark III

canon eos 5d mark iii
Winner!
65%

Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4

Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4
58%
Canon EOS 5D Mark III
vs
Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4
Price
Brand
Canon
Panasonic
Model
EOS 5D Mark III
Lumix DMC-GH4
Released
2012
2014
Announcement Date
March 02, 2012
February 07, 2014
Camera Type
DSLR
Mirrorless
Camera Size
Camera Weight

The Canon EOS 5D Mark III outperforms the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 with a score of 65/100 compared to 58/100. Both cameras were released in the early 2010s, with the 5D Mark III in 2012 and the GH4 in 2014. They also share similar launch prices, $3499 for the Canon and $1700 for the Panasonic.

The Canon 5D Mark III has the advantage of being a DSLR, offering better image quality and performance. Its larger size (152 x 116 x 76mm) and heavier weight (950g) can provide more stability during shooting. On the other hand, the Panasonic GH4 is a mirrorless camera with a smaller size (133 x 93 x 84mm) and lighter weight (560g), making it more portable and convenient for travel.

Considering these factors, the Canon EOS 5D Mark III is the better choice for those seeking top-notch image quality and performance, while the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 is ideal for those prioritizing portability and convenience.

Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 Overview and Optics

The Canon EOS 5D Mark III outperforms the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 in optics with a score of 67/100 compared to the GH4’s 52/100. Both cameras share common features such as CMOS sensors, no image stabilization, and similar processors (Digic 5+ for the 5D Mark III and Venus Engine IX for the GH4).

The 5D Mark III boasts a higher megapixel count of 22.3, compared to the GH4’s 16 megapixels. This results in better image quality and detail. Additionally, the 5D Mark III has a full-frame sensor, which provides better low-light performance and a shallower depth of field compared to the GH4’s Micro Four Thirds sensor. The Canon EF lens mount on the 5D Mark III also offers a wider range of lens options than the Micro 4/3 mount on the GH4. Furthermore, the 5D Mark III has a higher DXOMARK sensor score of 81, while the GH4 scores 74, indicating better overall sensor performance.

On the other hand, the GH4 has a faster shooting speed of 12 frames per second compared to the 5D Mark III’s 6 frames per second. This is an advantage for capturing fast-moving subjects or action scenes. Additionally, the GH4 has a 4:3 aspect ratio, which could be useful for specific photographic situations.

Taking into account these differences, the Canon EOS 5D Mark III is the better choice for photographers who prioritize image quality, low-light performance, and lens options. However, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 may be more suitable for those who need a faster shooting speed and prefer the 4:3 aspect ratio.

Optics
Optics
67%
52%
Megapixels
22.3 MP
16 MP
Image Resolution
5760 x 3840 px
4608 x 3456 px
Sensor Type
CMOS
CMOS
Sensor Size
24 x 36 mm
13 x 17.3 mm
Sensor Format
Full Frame
Micro Four Thirds
Frame Rate
6 fps
12 fps
Lens Mount
Canon EF
Micro 4/3
Image Processor
Digic 5+
Venus Engine IX
Aspect Ratio
3:2
4:3
Minimum ISO (Native)
100
200
Maximum ISO (Native)
25,600
25,600
Minimum ISO (Expanded)
50
100
Maximum ISO (Expanded)
102400
25600
Minimum Shutter Speed
30 s
60 s
Maximum Shutter Speed
1/ 8000 s
1/ 8000 s
Autofocus Points
61
49
In-body Stabilization
Viewfinder Type
Optical (pentaprism)
Electronic
Viewfinder Resolution
N/A
2,359,000 dots

Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 Video Performance

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 is the winner in the video capabilities comparison with a score of 70/100, while the Canon EOS 5D Mark III scored 56/100. Both cameras have impressive video specs, but the GH4 outperforms the 5D Mark III in several areas.

Both cameras share common video features, such as recording in Full HD (1920 x 1080) resolution. However, the GH4 takes it a step further with 4K (4096 x 2160) resolution, offering greater detail and clarity in videos. The 5D Mark III has a maximum video frame rate of 60fps, while the GH4’s maximum frame rate is 24fps. This difference in frame rates may be significant for some users, depending on their preferences and needs.

The GH4’s higher video score is due to its 4K resolution and built-in time-lapse functionality. These features make it a more versatile and powerful camera for video production. The 4K resolution allows for more detailed videos and provides greater flexibility in post-production. The built-in time-lapse function simplifies the process of creating time-lapse videos, eliminating the need for additional equipment or software.

The 5D Mark III, though not as advanced in video capabilities, has a higher maximum video frame rate of 60fps. This feature may be beneficial for users who require smoother motion in their videos, such as sports or action scenes.

Taking these factors into consideration, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 is the superior choice for video capabilities due to its 4K resolution and built-in time-lapse functionality. The Canon EOS 5D Mark III, while not as advanced, may be a better option for users who prioritize higher frame rates for smoother motion in their videos.

Video
Video
56%
70%
Video
Max Video Resolution
Full HD
4K
Max Video Dimensions
1920 x 1080 px
4096 x 2160 px
Max Video Frame Rate
60 p
24 p
Time-Lapse Built In
Video File Format
MOV
MOV, MP4, AVCHD

Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 Features and Benefits

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 wins in the features category with a score of 70/100, while the Canon EOS 5D Mark III scores 59/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as screen size (3.2 inches for Canon and 3 inches for Panasonic), screen resolution (1,040,000 dots for Canon and 1,036,000 dots for Panasonic), and the absence of GPS and Bluetooth.

The GH4 outperforms the 5D Mark III in several aspects. It features a touchscreen, which allows users to navigate menus and settings with ease. Additionally, the GH4 has a flip screen, which is convenient for taking photos and videos from various angles. The presence of WIFI in the GH4 enables users to transfer files wirelessly and control the camera remotely.

On the other hand, the 5D Mark III lacks these features, but it does have a larger screen size of 3.2 inches compared to the GH4’s 3-inch screen. This could be an advantage for users who prefer a bigger display for reviewing images and settings. However, it does not compensate for the absence of a touchscreen, flip screen, and WIFI capabilities.

In conclusion, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 is the superior camera in terms of features, offering a touchscreen, flip screen, and WIFI connectivity. The Canon EOS 5D Mark III has a larger screen size, but this does not outweigh the advantages of the GH4’s additional features.

Features
Features
59%
70%
Built-in Flash
External Flash
GPS
Weather Sealing
Screen Type
TFT LCD
LCD
Touch Screen
Screen Size
3.2"
3"
Screen Resolution
1,040,000 dots
1,036,000 dots
Flip Screen
Live View
Wi-Fi
Bluetooth

Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 Storage and Battery

The Canon EOS 5D Mark III outperforms the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 in storage and battery with a score of 76/100, compared to the GH4’s 60/100. Both cameras share similarities, such as having two memory card slots and accepting SD/SDHC/SDXC cards. However, the 5D Mark III has the advantage of also accepting Compact Flash and UDMA cards.

A significant difference lies in battery life, with the 5D Mark III lasting 950 shots, while the GH4 only manages 500 shots. Both cameras use different battery types, LP-E6 for the 5D Mark III, and DMW-BLF19 for the GH4. Neither camera offers USB charging.

Despite the lower score, the GH4 does not have any apparent advantages in storage and battery over the 5D Mark III. The Canon EOS 5D Mark III clearly excels in this category, making it a more reliable choice for extended shooting sessions and versatile storage options.

Storage and Battery
Storage and Battery
76%
60%
Memory Card
SD / SDHC / SDXC, Compact Flash, UDMA
SD / SDHC / SDXC
Dual Memory Card Slots
Battery Type
LP-E6
DMW-BLF19
Battery Life
950 shots
500 shots
USB Charging
DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK
Overall Score
81%
74%
Portrait (Color Depth)
24 bits
22.1 bits
Landscape (Dynamic Range)
11.7 EVs
11.7 EVs
Sports (Low-Light ISO)
2293
721
Scores

Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 – Our Verdict

Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 Comparison image.

Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Canon EOS 5D Mark III or the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4:

User Scores
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