CameraReview

Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 — Which Is Better?

Side-by-side specs, scores and live prices. Start over

✓ WINNER
Canon EOS 5D Mark III
Canon
Canon EOS 5D Mark III
DSLR · 22.3 MP · Full Frame · Full HD video
65
SCORE
$696.75
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Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4
Panasonic
Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4
Mirrorless · 16 MP · Micro Four Thirds · 4K video
58
SCORE
$412.64
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Best Price →
General
Brand CanonPanasonic
Model EOS 5D Mark IIILumix DMC-GH4
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20122014
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
02/03/201207/02/2014
Camera type DSLRMirrorless
Camera size 152 x 116 x 76 mm133 x 93 x 84 mm
Camera weight 950 g560 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
22.3 MP05016 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
5760 x 38404608 x 3456
Sensor type
The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality.
CMOSCMOS
Sensor size
The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture.
24 x 3613 x 17.3
Sensor format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
Full FrameMicro Four Thirds
Continuous shooting
The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode.
6 fps04512 fps045
Lens mount
The lens mount will tell you what type of lens range you can fit onto the camera body. Often the same camera company will have different lens ranges for different cameras.
Canon EFMicro 4/3
Image processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Digic 5+Venus Engine IX
Aspect ratio
The aspect ratio refers to the proportional difference between width and height. The most popular aspect ratios are 3:2 and 4:3.
3:24:3
Min ISO
Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image.
1003020020030200
Max ISO
Refers to the highest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Higher ISO is necessary for low-light situations or night photography, but higher ISOs often introduce grain or noise.
256003003280000256003003280000
Min ISO (expanded)
Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary.
503020010030200
Max ISO (expanded)
Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary.
1024003003280000256003003280000
Minimum shutter speed
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
30440806044080
Max shutter speed
The maximum shutter speed tells you the length inside 1 second the camera will capture. These can sometimes be extended with accessories such as extra external batteries.
800080032000800080032000
Autofocus points
Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings.
610300490300
In-body stabilisation
In-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake.
Viewfinder type
The viewfinder type is either electronic or optical. Electronic viewfinders will have a small screen in the viewfinder. Optical viewfinders will use prisms and mirrors to look through the lens.
Optical (pentaprism)Electronic
Viewfinder dots N/A235900009900000
Video
Video
Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video.
Max video resolution
The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video.
Full HD4K
Max video format
Video resolution measured by the greatest number of pixels possible in each frame, width by height. A higher resolution means more detail or clarity in your video.
1920 x 10804096 x 2160
Max video frame rate
How many frames per second your video will capture. Most cameras have options for multiple frame rates, depending on the resolution you shoot in. For a general video, 24p or 30p is the standard, but more serious filmmakers may need a higher frame rate for creative effect.
60 fps24 fps
Timelapse built in
A built in time-lapse mode will allow continuous shooting throughout a prolonged period of time to be compressed into a sped up video.
Video file format
Different cameras can record in various video file formats. The File format you record in can impact how you edit and use the files.
MOVMOV, MP4, AVCHD
Features
Builtin flash
A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it.
External flash
External flashes are often connected through a hot shoe at the top of a camera, or a cable at the side of the camera.
GPS
GPS features in a camera will include location metadata to each of your photographs.
Weather sealing
Weather sealing capabilities will give you more confidence when shooting in unfavourable conditions.
Screen type TFT LCDLCD
Touch screen
Touchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons.
Screen size 3.2"3"
Screen dots
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
1040000115000150000010360001150001500000
Flip screen
A flip screen (or articulating screen) is a second screen which can flip out from the side or top of the camera. This rotating screen allows you more freedom to take photos at different angles.
Live view
Live View feature allows you to see a continuous live video of what is being seen through your lens.
Wi-Fi
Built-in Wi-Fi allows you to connect your camera and share images wirelessly.
Bluetooth
Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices.
Storage & battery
Memory card SD / SDHC / SDXC, Compact Flash, UDMASD / SDHC / SDXC
Dual memory card slots
Battery type LP-E6DMW-BLF19
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
950 shots1505000500 shots1505000
USB charging

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.

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.

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.

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.

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: