Canon EOS 6D Mark II vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 Comparison
Canon EOS 6D Mark II
Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4
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Brand | Canon | Panasonic | |
Model | EOS 6D Mark II | Lumix DMC-GH4 | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2017 | 2014 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | June 29, 2017 | February 07, 2014 | |
Camera Type |  DSLR |  Mirrorless | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Canon EOS 6D Mark II takes the lead with a 71/100 score, while the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 trails behind at 58/100. Both cameras share similarities, such as their announcement and release years, 2017 and 2014 respectively, and their launch prices, $2000 for the Canon and $1700 for the Panasonic.
The Canon EOS 6D Mark II outshines the Panasonic with its DSLR camera type and lighter weight of 453g, making it more portable. Its size dimensions of 144 x 111 x 75mm further contribute to its compactness.
On the other hand, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 is a mirrorless camera and slightly heavier at 560g. Its size dimensions are 133 x 93 x 84mm. Despite its lower score, the Panasonic still has its merits, such as a lower launch price and a more advanced camera type.
Taking everything into account, the Canon EOS 6D Mark II emerges as the superior choice due to its higher score, DSLR camera type, and lighter weight. However, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 remains a viable option for those seeking a more budget-friendly and advanced camera type.
Canon EOS 6D Mark II vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 Overview and Optics
The Canon EOS 6D Mark II outperforms the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 in optics, with a score of 69/100 compared to 52/100. Both cameras share some similarities in specifications: they have CMOS sensors, lack image stabilization, and use similar processors – the Canon with Digic 7 and the Panasonic with Venus Engine IX.
The Canon EOS 6D Mark II has a clear advantage in terms of megapixels, with 26.2 compared to the Panasonic’s 16. This results in higher resolution images, providing more detail and better image quality. The Canon’s full-frame sensor size also contributes to better low-light performance and a shallower depth of field. Additionally, the Canon has a higher DXOMARK sensor score of 85, compared to the Panasonic’s 74, showing that its sensor performs better overall.
However, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 has a faster shooting speed of 12 frames per second, compared to the Canon’s 6.5. This makes the Panasonic better suited for capturing fast-moving subjects or action photography. The Panasonic also uses a Micro 4/3 lens mount, which offers a wider variety of lenses to choose from and lighter overall camera system.
Considering these points, the Canon EOS 6D Mark II’s superior megapixels, sensor size, and DXOMARK score make it the better choice for photographers prioritizing image quality and low-light performance. On the other hand, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4’s faster shooting speed and versatile lens mount make it a more suitable option for action photography and those seeking a lighter camera system.
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Optics
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Canon EOS 6D Mark II
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Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 26.2 MP | 16 MP | |
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Image Resolution Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution. | 6240 x 4160 px | 4608 x 3456 px | |
Sensor Type The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality. | CMOS | CMOS | |
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 35.9 mm | 13 x 17.3 mm | |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |  Full Frame |  Micro Four Thirds | |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 6.5 fps | 12 fps | |
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 EF | Micro 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 7 | 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. |  3:2 |  4:3 | |
Minimum ISO (Native) Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image. | 100 | 200 | |
Maximum ISO (Native) 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. | 40,000 | 25,600 | |
Minimum 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. | 50 | 100 | |
Maximum 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. | 102400 | 25600 | |
Minimum Shutter Speed The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory. | 30 s | 60 s | |
Maximum 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. | 1/ 4000 s | 1/ 8000 s | |
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. | 45 | 49 | |
In-body Stabilization 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 Resolution | N/A | 2,359,000 dots |
Canon EOS 6D Mark II vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 Video Performance
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 outperforms the Canon EOS 6D Mark II in video capabilities, with a score of 70/100 compared to the Canon’s 57/100. Both cameras share some common video specifications, such as having built-in time-lapse functionality.
The GH4 excels in its maximum video resolution and dimensions, offering 4K resolution (4096 x 2160) compared to the 6D Mark II’s Full HD (1920 x 1080). This higher resolution allows for more detailed and sharper videos, providing a significant advantage for videographers who require top-quality footage.
However, the Canon 6D Mark II has a higher maximum video frame rate at 30fps, compared to the GH4’s 24fps. This may be beneficial for those who prefer smoother motion in their videos, but the difference in frame rates is not significant enough to outweigh the GH4’s superior resolution.
Taking all of these factors into account, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 is the better camera for video capabilities due to its higher resolution and overall video score. While the Canon EOS 6D Mark II does have a slightly higher frame rate, it does not compensate for the substantial difference in video quality. Therefore, videographers and content creators should opt for the GH4 for its superior performance in capturing high-quality video footage.
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Video
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Canon EOS 6D Mark II
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Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4
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Video Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video. |   | | |
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Max Video Resolution The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video. |  Full HD |  4K | |
Max Video Dimensions 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 1080 px | 4096 x 2160 px | |
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 p | 24 p | |
Time-Lapse 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. | MP4, MOV | MOV, MP4, AVCHD |
Canon EOS 6D Mark II vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 Features and Benefits
The Canon EOS 6D Mark II outperforms the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 in features with a score of 83/100 compared to the GH4’s 70/100. Both cameras share a 3-inch screen size, touchscreen capabilities, flip screen, and WIFI connectivity. However, there are some key differences that make the 6D Mark II a better option in terms of features.
The 6D Mark II has a slightly higher screen resolution at 1,040,000 dots, compared to the GH4’s 1,036,000 dots. This provides a marginally clearer and sharper display. Additionally, the 6D Mark II includes GPS and Bluetooth capabilities, which the GH4 lacks. GPS allows for geotagging of images, while Bluetooth provides seamless connectivity with other devices.
While the Canon EOS 6D Mark II has better features overall, there are some aspects where the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 may be considered superior. However, based on the given specifications, there are no specific advantages for the GH4 in this comparison.
Taking into consideration the higher feature score and additional GPS and Bluetooth capabilities, the Canon EOS 6D Mark II is the clear winner in this comparison. The shared specifications such as screen size, touchscreen, flip screen, and WIFI connectivity make both cameras suitable for various photography needs. However, the 6D Mark II’s additional features provide an edge over the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4, making it the better choice for those prioritizing advanced features in their camera selection.
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Features
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Canon EOS 6D Mark II
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Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4
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Built-in Flash A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it. |  | | |
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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 | LCD | LCD | |
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" | 3" | |
Screen Resolution Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. | 1,040,000 dots | 1,036,000 dots | |
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 |  | | |
Bluetooth Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices. |  | | |
Canon EOS 6D Mark II vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 Storage and Battery
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 outperforms the Canon EOS 6D Mark II in storage and battery with a score of 60/100, compared to Canon’s 45/100. Both cameras accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards, with the GH4 having an advantage of two memory card slots, while the 6D Mark II has only one. This allows for more storage capacity and flexibility for the GH4 users.
In terms of battery life, the Canon EOS 6D Mark II takes the lead with 1200 shots per charge, significantly more than the GH4’s 500 shots. However, both cameras use different battery types: the 6D Mark II uses the LP-E6N, while the GH4 uses the DMW-BLF19. Neither camera offers USB charging.
Considering these points, the GH4 has an advantage in storage with its dual memory card slots, while the 6D Mark II excels in battery life. Both cameras have their strengths and cater to different user preferences.
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Storage and Battery
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Canon EOS 6D Mark II
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Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-I compatible) | SD / SDHC / SDXC | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | LP-E6N | DMW-BLF19 | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 1,200 shots | 500 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Canon EOS 6D Mark II
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Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4
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Overall Score DXOMARK overall sensor score. | |||
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Portrait (Color Depth) As described by DXOMARK 'The Portrait score in our camera sensor reviews defines color depth performance and its unit is a number of bits. A color depth of 22 bits is excellent; differences below 1 bit are barely noticeable.' | 24.4 bits | 22.1 bits | |
Landscape (Dynamic Range) As described by DXOMARK 'The Landscape score in our camera sensor tests defines the maximum dynamic range of the camera sensor and its unit is an exposure value (EV). A value of 12 EV is excellent with differences below 0.5 EV usually not noticeable.' | 11.9 EVs | 11.7 EVs | |
Sports (Low-Light ISO) Described by DXOMARK as 'The maximal value of ISO sensitivity needed to reach a given value of Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR). The greater the value, the better' | 2862 | 721 |
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Scores
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Canon EOS 6D Mark II
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Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4
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Canon EOS 6D Mark II vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 – Our Verdict
Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Canon EOS 6D Mark II or the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4:
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User Scores
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Canon EOS 6D Mark II
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Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4
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B&H photo video | N/A |
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