Canon EOS 80D vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 Comparison
Canon EOS 80D
Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4
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Brand | Canon | Panasonic | |
Model | EOS 80D | Lumix DMC-GH4 | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2016 | 2014 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | February 18, 2016 | February 07, 2014 | |
Camera Type |  DSLR |  Mirrorless | |
Camera Size | |||
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The Canon EOS 80D takes the lead with a score of 64/100, while the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 trails behind at 58/100. Both cameras share common features, such as their release years in the mid-2010s and their respective launch prices of $1200 and $1700.
The EOS 80D outperforms the GH4 due to its DSLR camera type, larger size (139 x 105 x 79mm), and heavier weight (730g / 1.61lbs). These specs contribute to its better overall performance and user experience.
On the other hand, the GH4 has its advantages as a mirrorless camera, with a more compact size (133 x 93 x 84mm) and lighter weight (560g / 1.23lbs), making it easier to carry around. However, these benefits do not outweigh the superior performance of the Canon EOS 80D.
Taking all factors into consideration, the Canon EOS 80D emerges as the better camera choice due to its higher score and improved specifications.
Canon EOS 80D vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 Overview and Optics
The Canon EOS 80D outperforms the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 in optics, scoring 63/100 compared to the GH4’s 52/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as having a CMOS sensor, no image stabilization, and similar processors (Digic 6 for the 80D and Venus Engine IX for the GH4).
The EOS 80D excels with its 24.2-megapixel sensor, APS-C sensor size, and Canon EF-S lens mount. These features contribute to its higher DXOMARK sensor score of 79, providing better image quality and more versatility in lens options. Moreover, the 80D has a 3:2 aspect ratio, which is more suitable for printing photos and is the standard aspect ratio for most DSLR cameras.
On the other hand, the Lumix GH4 has a 16-megapixel sensor, Micro Four Thirds sensor size, and Micro 4/3 lens mount. Despite its lower DXOMARK sensor score of 74, the GH4 offers a faster shooting speed of 12 frames per second, compared to the 80D’s 7 frames per second. This advantage makes the GH4 more suitable for capturing fast-moving subjects or continuous shooting. The GH4 also features a 4:3 aspect ratio, which is more common among mirrorless cameras and offers a taller frame.
In terms of optics, the Canon EOS 80D offers superior image quality, sensor size, and lens compatibility, making it the better choice for photographers seeking high-quality images. However, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4’s faster shooting speed may appeal to those who prioritize capturing fast action or continuous shooting. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras will depend on the specific needs and preferences of the photographer.
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Optics
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Canon EOS 80D
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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. | 24.2 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. | 6000 x 4000 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 22.5 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. | 7 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. | 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. | 25600 | 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. | 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 80D vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 Video Performance
The Canon EOS 80D and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 both have a video score of 70/100, indicating that they are evenly matched in terms of video capabilities. Both cameras feature time-lapse functionality built in, which is a useful feature for capturing stunning time-lapse videos.
However, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 has an edge in terms of maximum video resolution and dimensions. It is capable of shooting 4K video with dimensions of 4096 x 2160, while the Canon EOS 80D is limited to Full HD with dimensions of 1920 x 1080. This means that the GH4 can capture more detail and produce higher quality video footage than the EOS 80D.
On the other hand, the Canon EOS 80D boasts a higher maximum video frame rate of 60fps, compared to the GH4’s 24fps. This allows the EOS 80D to capture smoother footage, particularly in fast-paced action scenes or when shooting slow-motion videos.
Taking these factors into consideration, it can be said that the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 is better for shooting high-resolution videos with more detail, while the Canon EOS 80D is better suited for capturing smooth, fast-paced action. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras depends on the user’s priorities and specific video requirements.
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Video
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Canon EOS 80D
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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 80D vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 Features and Benefits
The Canon EOS 80D and the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 both earn a feature score of 70/100. These cameras share several specifications, making them comparable in terms of features. Both cameras have a 3-inch screen, touchscreen capabilities, flip screens, and WIFI connectivity. Neither camera has GPS or Bluetooth capabilities.
The Canon EOS 80D has a slightly higher screen resolution at 1,040,000 dots compared to the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4’s 1,036,000 dots. This difference in screen resolution provides a marginally clearer and sharper image preview on the EOS 80D. However, this minor advantage may not significantly impact the overall user experience for most photographers.
On the other hand, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 stands out in its video capabilities, which were discussed in the previous section. The GH4’s ability to record 4K video at higher frame rates makes it more suitable for videographers and those who need advanced video features. This advantage sets the GH4 apart from the EOS 80D, which has lower video capabilities.
Considering the features of both cameras, it is clear that they are evenly matched in many aspects. The Canon EOS 80D has a slight edge in screen resolution, while the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 excels in video capabilities. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras will depend on the specific needs and preferences of the photographer. Those who prioritize video performance may opt for the GH4, while the 80D’s marginally better screen resolution may appeal to some photographers.
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Features
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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 80D vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 Storage and Battery
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 outperforms the Canon EOS 80D in storage and battery with a score of 60 to 43. Both cameras share similarities, such as accepting SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards, and not supporting USB charging. However, the GH4 takes the lead with two memory card slots compared to the 80D’s single slot, allowing for more storage flexibility.
The 80D offers a longer battery life of 960 shots, which is almost double the GH4’s 500 shots. Despite this advantage, the GH4’s overall storage and battery score remains higher. This is due to its dual memory card slots, which provide a significant advantage for photographers who require ample storage space.
While the Canon EOS 80D has a longer battery life, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4’s dual memory card slots make it the superior choice for storage and battery capabilities.
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Storage and Battery
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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. | 960 shots | 500 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Canon EOS 80D
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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.' | 23.6 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.' | 13.2 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' | 1135 | 721 |
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Scores
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Canon EOS 80D
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Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4
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Alternatives to the Canon EOS 80D and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4
Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Canon EOS 80D or the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4:
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User Scores
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Canon EOS 80D
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Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4
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B&H photo video |
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