CameraReview

Nikon Z6 II vs Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5 — Which Is Better?

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

✓ WINNER
Nikon Z6 II
Nikon
Nikon Z6 II
Mirrorless · 24.5 MP · Full Frame · 4K video
83
SCORE
$1,546.95
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Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5
Panasonic
Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5
Mirrorless · 20.3 MP · Micro Four Thirds · 4K video
72
SCORE
$695.99
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General
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20202017
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
14/10/202004/01/2017
Camera type MirrorlessMirrorless
Camera size 134 x 101 x 70 mm139 x 98 x 87 mm
Camera weight 705 g725 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
24.5 MP05020.3 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
6048 x 40245184 x 3888
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.
35.9 x 23.913 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.
14 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.
Nikon ZMicro 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 Expeed 6Venus Engine 10
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.
512003003280000256003003280000
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.
2048003003280000256003003280000
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.
8000800320001600080032000
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.
27303002250300
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.
ElectronicElectronic
Viewfinder dots 369000009900000368000009900000
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.
4K4K
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.
3840 x 21604096 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.
120 fps60 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.
MOV, MP4MP4, MOV
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"3.2"
Screen dots
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
2100000115000150000016200001150001500000
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, CFexpress Type B / XQD (UHS-II compatible)SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible)
Dual memory card slots
Battery type EN-EL15cDMW-BLF19
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
410 shots1505000410 shots1505000
USB charging

The Nikon Z6 II outperforms the Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5 with a score of 83/100, compared to the GH5’s 72/100. Both cameras are mirrorless and share similar launch prices, with the Z6 II at $1995 and the GH5 at $2000. They also have comparable sizes and weights, with the Z6 II measuring 134 x 101 x 70mm and weighing 705g, while the GH5 measures 139 x 98 x 87mm and weighs 725g.

The Z6 II’s higher score reflects its superior performance and more recent release in 2020, as opposed to the GH5’s 2017 release. However, the GH5 still offers competitive features despite its age and slightly larger size and weight.

Ultimately, the Nikon Z6 II is the better choice among the two, offering advanced capabilities and a more compact design, while the Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5 remains a viable option for those seeking a more affordable, yet still reliable, camera.

Nikon Z6 II vs Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5 Overview and Optics

The Nikon Z6 II triumphs over the Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5 in optics with a significant difference of 16 points, scoring 83/100 compared to the GH5’s 67/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, including CMOS sensor type, image stabilisation, and the presence of a lens mount.

The Nikon Z6 II outperforms the GH5 in several aspects. Firstly, it has a higher megapixel count of 24.5 compared to the GH5’s 20.3, resulting in better image resolution. The Z6 II also boasts a faster shooting speed of 14 frames per second, compared to the GH5’s 12. The dual Expeed 6 processor in the Z6 II ensures faster processing and better image quality compared to the GH5’s Venus Engine 10. Furthermore, the Z6 II has a superior DXOMARK sensor score of 94, compared to the GH5’s 77, indicating better overall sensor performance. The Z6 II also benefits from a larger full-frame sensor, as opposed to the GH5’s micro four-thirds sensor, which contributes to better image quality and low-light performance. Lastly, the Nikon Z lens mount offers a growing selection of high-quality lenses.

On the other hand, the Panasonic GH5 has a unique advantage with its 4:3 aspect ratio, which can be preferable for certain photography styles and videography applications. Additionally, the Micro 4/3 lens mount provides access to a vast array of lenses from various manufacturers, offering versatility and affordability.

Considering these points, the Nikon Z6 II emerges as the superior camera in terms of optics, offering better image quality, sensor performance, and lens options. Although the Panasonic GH5 provides an alternative aspect ratio and lens mount versatility, it falls short when compared to the Z6 II’s overall optical performance.

Nikon Z6 II vs Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5 Video Performance

The Nikon Z6 II outperforms the Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5 in video capabilities with a score of 91/100, while the GH5 scores 69/100. Both cameras share a 4K maximum video resolution. However, the GH5 has slightly larger dimensions at 4096 x 2160 compared to the Z6 II’s 3840 x 2160.

The Nikon Z6 II surpasses the GH5 with its higher maximum video frame rate of 120fps, allowing for smoother slow-motion footage. Additionally, the Z6 II includes built-in time-lapse functionality, which the GH5 lacks. These features make the Z6 II a better choice for videographers seeking advanced capabilities and creative options.

Despite scoring lower, the Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5 still has its advantages. The camera offers a higher maximum video dimension, which may be useful for certain projects requiring extra pixels. However, this does not outweigh the benefits provided by the Z6 II’s superior frame rate and time-lapse functionality.

In comparing the two cameras, the Nikon Z6 II clearly excels in video performance due to its higher frame rate and built-in time-lapse feature. While the Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5 offers a larger video dimension, it falls short in other aspects. Therefore, the Z6 II is the superior choice for those focused on video capabilities.

Nikon Z6 II vs Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5 Features and Benefits

The Nikon Z6 II and Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5 both have a feature score of 87/100, making them equally strong contenders in the camera market. They share several specifications, such as a 3.2-inch screen size, touchscreen capabilities, and the absence of GPS. Additionally, both cameras come equipped with WIFI and Bluetooth connectivity.

Despite their identical scores, the Nikon Z6 II outperforms the Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5 in screen resolution, boasting 2,100,000 dots compared to the GH5’s 1,620,000 dots. This higher resolution provides a clearer and sharper image preview, giving photographers an advantage when capturing and reviewing shots.

On the other hand, the Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5 has a flip screen, which the Nikon Z6 II lacks. This feature allows for more versatile shooting angles and is particularly useful for vloggers or photographers who often need to capture images from different perspectives. The flip screen can also help protect the screen when not in use.

The Nikon Z6 II’s higher screen resolution gives it an edge in image preview quality, while the Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5’s flip screen offers a practical advantage for versatile shooting. Both cameras have impressive feature scores and share several specifications, making them strong choices for photographers. Ultimately, the decision between the two cameras depends on the individual’s priorities, whether it be higher screen resolution or the convenience of a flip screen.

Nikon Z6 II vs Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5 Storage and Battery

The Nikon Z6 II outperforms the Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5 in storage and battery with a score of 71/100 compared to 57/100. Both cameras have two memory card slots and a battery life of 410 shots. However, the Nikon Z6 II accepts SD, CFexpress Type B / XQD (UHS-II compatible) memory cards, while the Panasonic GH5 only accepts SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible) cards.

The superior aspect of the Nikon Z6 II is its USB charging capability, which the Panasonic GH5 lacks. This feature allows for more convenient charging options. On the other hand, the Panasonic GH5 does not have any advantages over the Nikon Z6 II in terms of storage and battery.

Given these differences, the Nikon Z6 II proves to be a better choice for those prioritizing storage and battery features. The USB charging option adds flexibility and convenience, making it a more appealing choice for photographers and videographers.

Nikon Z6 II vs Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5 – Our Verdict

Nikon Z6 II vs Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5 Comparison image.

Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Nikon Z6 II or the Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5: