Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 vs Lumix DMC-GX7 Comparison
Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4
Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX7
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Brand | Panasonic | Panasonic | |
Model | Lumix DMC-GH4 | Lumix DMC-GX7 | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2014 | 2013 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | February 07, 2014 | August 01, 2013 | |
Camera Type |  Mirrorless | Mirrorless | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 outperforms the Lumix DMC-GX7 with a score of 58/100 compared to 52/100. Both cameras are mirrorless and were released in 2014 and 2013, respectively. They share similarities in their camera type and launch prices, with the GH4 priced at $1700 and the GX7 at $999.
The GH4 surpasses the GX7 in terms of size and weight, measuring 133 x 93 x 84mm and weighing 560g. This makes it more suitable for professional use and handling. On the other hand, the GX7 has a smaller size of 123 x 71 x 55mm and weighs only 402g, making it more portable and ideal for casual photographers.
Considering the difference in scores, the GH4 is the better camera, offering more advanced features and performance. However, the GX7 still holds its ground as a more compact and affordable option for those who prioritize portability.
Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 vs Lumix DMC-GX7 Overview and Optics
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX7 edges out the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 in our optics comparison with a score of 54/100, compared to the GH4’s 52/100. Both cameras share several common specifications, including 16 megapixels, a CMOS sensor type, Micro Four Thirds sensor size, and a Micro 4/3 lens mount.
The Lumix GX7 surpasses the GH4 in a few key areas. Firstly, the GX7 has built-in image stabilization, which the GH4 lacks. This feature is beneficial for reducing camera shake and improving image sharpness, particularly in low-light situations or when using longer focal lengths. Additionally, the GX7 has a slightly higher DXOMARK score for the sensor, at 70 compared to the GH4’s 74. This difference indicates that the GX7 may deliver better overall image quality.
On the other hand, the Lumix GH4 has a faster shooting speed of 12 frames per second, compared to the GX7’s 5 frames per second. This advantage makes the GH4 a more suitable option for capturing fast-moving subjects or action photography. The GH4 also includes the Venus Engine IX processor, which is more advanced than the Venus Engine processor found in the GX7, potentially leading to better processing performance.
Taking these factors into consideration, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX7 is the winner in our optics comparison due to its image stabilization and slightly higher sensor score. However, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 may still be a viable option for those who prioritize fast shooting speeds and advanced processing capabilities.
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Optics
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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. | 16 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. | 4608 x 3456 px | 4592 x 3448 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. | 13 x 17.3 mm | 13 x 17.3 mm | |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |  Micro Four Thirds | 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. | 12 fps | 5 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. | Micro 4/3 | 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. | Venus Engine IX | Venus Engine | |
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. |  4:3 | 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. | 200 | 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. | 25,600 | 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 | 125 | |
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. | 60 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. | 49 | 23 | |
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. | Electronic | Electronic | |
Viewfinder Resolution | 2,359,000 dots | 2,764,800 dots |
Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 vs Lumix DMC-GX7 Video Performance
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 outperforms the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX7 in video capabilities, scoring 70 out of 100 compared to the GX7’s score of 56. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as the ability to record in AVCHD and MP4 formats, and offering a range of manual controls for video recording.
The GH4 surpasses the GX7 in several aspects. One significant advantage is its maximum video resolution of 4K (4096 x 2160), while the GX7 only offers Full HD (1920 x 1080). This higher resolution translates to more detailed and sharper video footage. Additionally, the GH4 has a built-in time-lapse functionality, which the GX7 lacks. This feature allows for creative video production without the need for external accessories or software.
On the other hand, the GX7 has a higher maximum video frame rate of 60fps, compared to the GH4’s 24fps. This allows for smoother video playback and better slow-motion effects. However, this advantage is limited by the lower resolution of the GX7.
In terms of video capabilities, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 is the clear winner, offering 4K resolution and built-in time-lapse functionality. These features make it a more suitable choice for videographers and those seeking higher quality video output. The GX7, while offering a higher maximum frame rate, falls short in resolution and additional features.
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Video
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Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4
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Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX7
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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. |  4K |  Full HD | |
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. | 4096 x 2160 px | 1920 x 1080 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. | 24 p | 60 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, AVCHD | MP4 |
Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 vs Lumix DMC-GX7 Features and Benefits
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 is the winner in the features comparison with a score of 70/100, while the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX7 scores 57/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including a 3-inch screen size, touchscreen capabilities, flip screen, absence of GPS, presence of WIFI, and lack of Bluetooth.
The GH4’s higher score signifies it has better features. The screen resolution is slightly lower at 1,036,000 dots compared to the GX7’s 1,040,000 dots. However, this small difference does not significantly impact the overall performance of the camera. The GH4 also excels in other areas that contribute to its superior score.
On the other hand, the GX7 has some advantages despite its lower score. Its slightly higher screen resolution may appeal to some users, although the difference is minimal. Nonetheless, it is important to recognize that the GX7 does have its strengths, even if they do not outweigh the GH4’s advantages.
Considering the scores and specifications, it is clear that the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 offers more value in terms of features. The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX7, while having a few advantages, does not perform as well as the GH4 in this aspect. Therefore, users seeking a camera with superior features should opt for the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4, while those who prioritize a slightly higher screen resolution may find the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX7 more suitable.
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Features
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Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX7
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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. | 1,036,000 dots | 1,040,000 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. |  | | |
Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 vs Lumix DMC-GX7 Storage and Battery
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 prevails over the DMC-GX7 in storage and battery, scoring 60/100 against the DMC-GX7’s 21/100. Both cameras share compatibility with SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards. However, the DMC-GH4 surpasses the DMC-GX7 with its two memory card slots, providing more storage capacity.
In terms of battery life, the DMC-GH4 also outperforms the DMC-GX7, offering 500 shots per charge compared to the DMC-GX7’s 350 shots. The DMC-GH4 utilizes a DMW-BLF19 battery, while the DMC-GX7 uses a Li-Ion, 7.2V, 1200 mAh battery. Neither camera offers USB charging capabilities.
Although the DMC-GX7 falls short in storage and battery, it remains a reliable choice for casual photographers. The DMC-GH4, with its superior storage and battery capacity, is better suited for professional use or extended shooting sessions.
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Storage and Battery
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC | SD / SDHC / SDXC | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | DMW-BLF19 | Li-Ion, 7.2V, 1200 mAh | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 500 shots | 350 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
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.' | 22.1 bits | 23.5 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.' | 11.7 EVs | 12.6 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' | 721 | 806 |
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Scores
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Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4
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Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX7
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Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 vs Lumix DMC-GX7 – Our Verdict
Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 or the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX7:
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User Scores
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Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4
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Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX7
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B&H photo video |
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