Canon EOS 7D Mark II vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 Comparison
Canon EOS 7D Mark II
Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4
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Brand | Canon | Panasonic | |
Model | EOS 7D Mark II | Lumix DMC-GH4 | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2014 | 2014 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | September 15, 2014 | February 07, 2014 | |
Camera Type |  DSLR |  Mirrorless | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Canon EOS 7D Mark II edges out the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 with a score of 60/100 to 58/100. Both cameras were released in 2014, with the Canon having a launch price of $1800 and the Panasonic at $1700. They share similarities in announcement and release dates.
The Canon 7D Mark II, a DSLR, boasts a larger size (149 x 112 x 78mm) and heavier weight (910g) compared to the Panasonic GH4, a mirrorless camera, which measures 133 x 93 x 84mm and weighs 560g. The Canon’s bigger size and weight may provide a more stable shooting experience.
On the other hand, the Panasonic GH4’s compact size and lighter weight make it more portable and easier to handle for extended periods. This is an advantage for those prioritizing mobility.
Comparing both cameras, the Canon EOS 7D Mark II offers more stability, while the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 provides better portability.
Canon EOS 7D Mark II vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 Overview and Optics
The Canon EOS 7D Mark II outperforms the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 in optics, scoring 61/100 compared to the GH4’s 52/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, including a CMOS sensor type, absence of image stabilization, and similar processors – the 7D Mark II with Dual Digic 6 and the GH4 with Venus Engine IX.
The 7D Mark II boasts a higher megapixel count at 20.2, compared to the GH4’s 16, which allows for better image resolution and detail. Furthermore, the 7D Mark II has an APS-C sensor size, which is larger than the GH4’s Micro Four Thirds sensor. This difference in sensor size results in improved low-light performance and a shallower depth of field for the 7D Mark II. The Canon EF-S lens mount is also compatible with a wide range of high-quality lenses, offering more versatility for various shooting situations.
On the other hand, the GH4 has a faster shooting speed at 12 frames per second, compared to the 7D Mark II’s 10. This can be beneficial for capturing fast-moving subjects or action scenes. Additionally, the GH4 has a slightly higher DXOMARK score for its sensor at 74, compared to the 7D Mark II’s 70, indicating better overall image quality.
Taking these factors into consideration, the Canon EOS 7D Mark II emerges as the stronger camera in terms of optics, with a higher megapixel count, larger sensor size, and versatile lens compatibility. However, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 still has its advantages, particularly in shooting speed and a marginally better DXOMARK sensor score.
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Optics
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Canon EOS 7D 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. | 20.2 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. | 5472 x 3648 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. | 15 x 22.4 mm | 13 x 17.3 mm | |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |  APS-C |  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. | 10 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-S | 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. | Dual Digic 6 | 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. | 16,000 | 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. | 100 | 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. | 51200 | 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/ 8000 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. | 65 | 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 7D Mark II vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 Video Performance
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 emerges as the winner in video capabilities, with a score of 70/100 as opposed to the Canon EOS 7D Mark II’s score of 56/100. Both cameras share certain video specifications, such as Full HD video resolution and a maximum frame rate of 60fps for the Canon and 24fps for the Panasonic. However, the GH4 offers more advanced video features that contribute to its higher score.
One significant advantage of the GH4 over the 7D Mark II is its ability to record 4K video with a maximum video dimension of 4096 x 2160. This allows for higher quality and more detailed footage compared to the 7D Mark II’s Full HD video resolution of 1920 x 1080. Additionally, the GH4 has time-lapse functionality built in, providing more creative options for videographers.
On the other hand, the Canon EOS 7D Mark II has a higher maximum video frame rate of 60fps, compared to the GH4’s 24fps. This enables smoother slow-motion footage and may be preferred by some users. However, this advantage is not enough to outweigh the benefits offered by the GH4’s 4K resolution and time-lapse capabilities.
To conclude, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 boasts superior video capabilities due to its 4K resolution and built-in time-lapse functionality, earning it a higher score in this category. While the Canon EOS 7D Mark II offers a higher maximum video frame rate, this feature is not enough to surpass the advantages provided by the GH4.
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Video
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Canon EOS 7D 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. | MOV, MP4 | MOV, MP4, AVCHD |
Canon EOS 7D Mark II vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 Features and Benefits
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 emerges as the winner with a feature score of 70/100, while the Canon EOS 7D Mark II scores 57/100. Both cameras have 3-inch screens, similar screen resolutions (1,036,000 dots for the GH4 and 1,040,000 dots for the 7D Mark II), GPS, WiFi, and no Bluetooth.
The GH4 outperforms the 7D Mark II with its touchscreen and flip screen features. The touchscreen allows for easier navigation and control, while the flip screen provides flexibility when shooting from different angles or taking selfies. These features make the GH4 more user-friendly and versatile.
On the other hand, the 7D Mark II has GPS, which the GH4 lacks. This feature enables geotagging, allowing users to track and organize their photos based on location. However, this advantage is not significant enough to outweigh the GH4’s superior features.
When comparing the two cameras, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4’s higher feature score reflects its better overall performance. The touchscreen and flip screen contribute to its user-friendliness and versatility, making it the preferred choice for many photographers. The Canon EOS 7D Mark II’s GPS feature offers a slight advantage in photo organization, but it is not enough to compete with the GH4’s strengths. Consequently, the GH4 remains the superior choice in terms of features.
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Features
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Canon EOS 7D 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 7D Mark II vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 Storage and Battery
The Canon EOS 7D Mark II wins the storage and battery comparison with a score of 65/100, while the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 scores 60/100. Both cameras have two memory card slots and accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards. The 7D Mark II stands out with its additional support for Compact Flash cards, providing users with more storage options.
Regarding battery life, the 7D Mark II offers 670 shots per charge, which is superior to the GH4’s 500 shots. The 7D Mark II uses an LP-E6N battery, while the GH4 uses a DMW-BLF19 battery. Neither camera supports USB charging.
Despite the lower score, the GH4 still provides a decent battery life and storage capacity for most users. However, the 7D Mark II is the better option for those seeking longer battery life and more storage flexibility. Both cameras lack USB charging, which could be a disadvantage for some users.
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Storage and Battery
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Canon EOS 7D Mark II
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Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC, Compact Flash | 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. | 670 shots | 500 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Canon EOS 7D 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.' | 22.4 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.' | 11.8 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' | 1082 | 721 |
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Scores
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Canon EOS 7D Mark II
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Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4
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Canon EOS 7D 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 7D Mark II or the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4:
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User Scores
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Canon EOS 7D Mark II
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Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4
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B&H photo video |
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