CameraReview

Canon EOS 7D vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 — Which Is Better?

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

Canon EOS 7D
Canon
Canon EOS 7D
DSLR · 18 MP · APS-C · Full HD video
45
SCORE
$239.97
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✓ WINNER
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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General
Brand CanonPanasonic
Model EOS 7DLumix DMC-GH4
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20092014
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
01/09/200907/02/2014
Camera type DSLRMirrorless
Camera size 148 x 111 x 74 mm133 x 93 x 84 mm
Camera weight 860 g560 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
18 MP05016 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
5184 x 34564608 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.
14.9 x 22.313 x 17.3
Sensor format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
APS-CMicro 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.
8 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 EF-SMicro 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 4Venus 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.
64003003280000256003003280000
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.
1003020010030200
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.
128003003280000256003003280000
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.
00300490300
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.
1921 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.
30 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 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"3"
Screen dots
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
920000115000150000010360001150001500000
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 Compact Flash (Type I or II), UDMA, MicrodriveSD / 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.
800 shots1505000500 shots1505000
USB charging

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 outperforms the Canon EOS 7D with a score of 58/100 compared to the latter’s 45/100. Both cameras were released with a few years gap, the 7D in 2009 and the GH4 in 2014. They share similarities in their announcement dates and launch prices, $1974 for the 7D and $1700 for the GH4.

The GH4’s higher score is due to its mirrorless design, resulting in a more compact and lightweight body, measuring 133 x 93 x 84mm and weighing 560g. On the other hand, the EOS 7D, a DSLR, is larger and heavier at 148 x 111 x 74mm and 860g.

Despite its lower score, the Canon EOS 7D may still appeal to users who prefer the traditional DSLR design. However, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 offers a more modern and portable option with its mirrorless build and higher score. Ultimately, the choice depends on the user’s preferences and needs.

Canon EOS 7D vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 Overview and Optics

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 outperforms the Canon EOS 7D in optics with a score of 52/100 compared to the 7D’s 43/100. Both cameras share similarities in specifications, such as having a CMOS sensor type, a lack of image stabilization, and a shooting speed of 8 frames per second (fps) for the 7D and 12 fps for the GH4.

The GH4 takes the lead with a higher DXOMARK sensor score of 74, compared to the 7D’s 66. This means the GH4’s sensor captures better image quality. Additionally, the GH4 has a faster processor, the Venus Engine IX, which allows for quicker image processing and better overall performance. The GH4 also has a Micro Four Thirds sensor size and a Micro 4/3 lens mount, providing a wider range of lens compatibility.

On the other hand, the Canon EOS 7D has a slightly higher megapixel count at 18, compared to the GH4’s 16. This allows the 7D to capture more detail in images. The 7D also has an APS-C sensor size, which is larger than the GH4’s Micro Four Thirds sensor. The larger sensor size may provide better low-light performance and image quality. Furthermore, the 7D uses a Canon EF-S lens mount, which is compatible with a vast range of Canon lenses.

While both cameras have their advantages, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4’s higher optics score and better sensor performance make it the superior choice in this comparison. However, the Canon EOS 7D’s higher megapixel count and larger sensor size may appeal to some photographers who prioritize image detail and low-light performance.

Canon EOS 7D vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 Video Performance

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 emerges as the winner when comparing video capabilities with the Canon EOS 7D, boasting a video score of 70/100 compared to the 7D’s 43/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, including the ability to record high-quality videos and capture exceptional images.

The GH4 outperforms the 7D in terms of video resolution and dimensions. The Lumix GH4 records 4K video with dimensions of 4096 x 2160, offering greater detail and clarity than the 7D’s Full HD resolution of 1921 x 1080. Additionally, the GH4 has a built-in time-lapse functionality, providing users with the convenience of capturing stunning time-lapse videos without needing additional equipment or software.

On the other hand, the Canon EOS 7D has a higher maximum video frame rate of 30fps, compared to the GH4’s 24fps. This advantage allows the 7D to capture smoother video footage, especially for fast-moving scenes or action shots. However, this difference in frame rate may not be significant enough to outweigh the benefits of the GH4’s superior video resolution and added features.

Taking all factors into account, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 proves to be the superior choice for videographers seeking high-resolution video and additional functionalities. While the Canon EOS 7D may provide smoother video capture, its lower resolution and lack of time-lapse functionality make it a less competitive option for those prioritizing video capabilities.

Canon EOS 7D vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 Features and Benefits

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 outperforms the Canon EOS 7D in features with a score of 70/100 compared to the 7D’s 54/100. Both cameras share a 3-inch screen, but the GH4 surpasses the 7D with a screen resolution of 1,036,000 dots versus the 7D’s 920,000 dots. They also lack GPS and Bluetooth capabilities.

The GH4 is better in terms of user experience, as it has a touchscreen and a flip screen, making it more versatile for different shooting scenarios. The camera also has built-in WiFi, allowing for easier sharing and transfer of photos and videos.

The 7D does not have any clear advantages over the GH4 in terms of features. It lacks the touchscreen, flip screen, and WiFi capabilities found in the GH4, putting it at a disadvantage.

The GH4’s higher feature score reflects its superior capabilities and user experience. It offers a more versatile and convenient shooting experience with its touchscreen, flip screen, and WiFi connectivity. On the other hand, the 7D falls short in these areas, making it less appealing for those who prioritize these features. While both cameras share some common specifications, the GH4 clearly stands out as the better option in terms of features.

Canon EOS 7D vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 Storage and Battery

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 wins in the storage and battery category with a score of 60/100, compared to the Canon EOS 7D’s score of 35/100. Both cameras have a single memory card slot, with the GH4 accepting SD/SDHC/SDXC cards and the 7D using Compact Flash (Type I or II), UDMA, and Microdrive cards.

The GH4’s advantage comes from its dual memory card slots, which provide greater storage flexibility for users. Additionally, the GH4 uses the more common SD card format, making it easier to find compatible memory cards. However, the 7D has a longer battery life with 800 shots, compared to the GH4’s 500 shots. Both cameras use different battery types, with the 7D using an LP-E6 battery and the GH4 using a DMW-BLF19 battery. Neither camera offers USB charging.

Despite the 7D’s longer battery life, the GH4’s dual memory card slots and compatibility with the more common SD card format make it the superior option in the storage and battery category.

Canon EOS 7D vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 – Our Verdict

Canon EOS 7D 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 7D or the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4: