Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 vs Sony a7 II Comparison

The Sony a7 II emerges as the winner with a score of 69/100, while the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 trails behind with 58/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as being mirrorless and having a 2014 release year.

The Sony a7 II has advantages in its more compact size (127 x 96 x 60mm) and lower launch price of $1600. On the other hand, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 is lighter in weight (560g) compared to the Sony a7 II (599g), which could be a plus for some users.

Taking these factors into consideration, the Sony a7 II outperforms the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 mainly due to its size and price, while the latter may still appeal to those who prioritize a lighter camera.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 vs Sony a7 II Overview and Optics

The Sony a7 II prevails in the optics comparison with a score of 78/100, leaving the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 behind at 52/100. Both cameras share a CMOS sensor and distinct processors, the Bionz X for the Sony a7 II and the Venus Engine IX for the Panasonic GH4. Additionally, they each have unique lens mounts: Sony E for the a7 II and Micro 4/3 for the GH4.

The Sony a7 II outperforms the Panasonic GH4 in several aspects, including a higher DXOMARK sensor score of 90 compared to the GH4’s 74. Furthermore, the Sony a7 II has a full-frame sensor, a superior 24.2-megapixel count, and image stabilization. These features contribute to the camera’s enhanced image quality and low-light performance.

On the other hand, the Panasonic GH4 has a faster shooting speed of 12, double that of the Sony a7 II’s 5. This advantage allows the GH4 to capture fast-moving subjects more effectively. However, the GH4’s smaller Micro Four Thirds sensor and lower 16-megapixel count result in a lower overall optics score.

The Sony a7 II is the clear winner in terms of optics, offering better image quality and low-light performance due to its full-frame sensor, higher megapixels, and image stabilization. The Panasonic GH4’s advantage lies in its faster shooting speed, making it more suitable for capturing fast-paced action. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras comes down to the photographer’s specific needs and preferences.

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 outperforms the Sony a7 II in video capabilities, scoring 70/100 compared to the Sony a7 II’s 56/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as the ability to record high-definition video and offering manual exposure control during video recording. However, the GH4 surpasses the a7 II in several key aspects.

The most significant advantage of the GH4 is its maximum video resolution. It supports 4K video recording with dimensions of 4096 x 2160, while the a7 II only supports Full HD with dimensions of 1920 x 1080. This means the GH4 can capture more details and higher quality footage than the a7 II. Additionally, the GH4 has a built-in time-lapse functionality, which the a7 II lacks. This feature allows the GH4 to capture stunning time-lapse sequences without the need for additional accessories or software.

On the other hand, the Sony a7 II has a higher maximum video frame rate of 60fps, compared to the GH4’s 24fps. This allows the a7 II to record smoother video, particularly when capturing fast-moving subjects or action scenes. However, this advantage may not be significant enough for many users to outweigh the benefits of the GH4’s 4K resolution and time-lapse feature.

Given these differences, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 emerges as the superior choice for video capabilities. Its 4K resolution and built-in time-lapse functionality make it a more versatile and powerful tool for videographers. While the Sony a7 II has a higher frame rate, it falls short in other essential aspects, making the GH4 the clear winner in this comparison.

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 outperforms the Sony a7 II in features, with a score of 70/100 compared to the Sony’s 57/100. Both cameras share some specifications, such as a 3-inch screen size, flip screen, no GPS, WIFI, and no Bluetooth. However, there are notable differences that make the Panasonic GH4 a better choice in terms of features.

The Panasonic GH4 has a touchscreen, which the Sony a7 II lacks. This makes navigating menus, selecting focus points, and adjusting settings quicker and more intuitive. Additionally, the GH4’s screen resolution is 1,036,000 dots, slightly lower than the Sony a7 II’s 1,230,000 dots, but this difference is not significant enough to affect the overall user experience.

On the other hand, the Sony a7 II has a higher screen resolution, which may provide a clearer and more detailed display. However, this advantage is minimal given the absence of a touchscreen. In terms of features, the GH4 is the clear winner, offering a more user-friendly experience with its touchscreen capabilities.

In conclusion, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 is the better camera in terms of features, as evidenced by its higher score. The touchscreen functionality sets it apart from the Sony a7 II, making it more convenient and enjoyable to use. While the Sony a7 II has a slightly higher screen resolution, it falls short in overall features, making the Panasonic GH4 the superior choice.

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 outperforms the Sony a7 II in storage and battery, boasting a score of 60/100 compared to the Sony’s 35/100. Both cameras accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards, but the GH4 has two memory card slots, while the a7 II only has one. Additionally, the a7 II accepts Memory Stick Duo, Pro Duo, and Pro-HG Duo cards.

The GH4’s battery life is superior, offering 500 shots per charge, whereas the a7 II’s battery life is limited to 350 shots. Both cameras use different battery types, with the GH4 utilizing a DMW-BLF19 and the a7 II using an NP-FW50.

In terms of storage and battery, the GH4 is the clear winner with its longer battery life and dual memory card slots. However, the a7 II does offer more memory card compatibility, which may be a minor advantage for some users.

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 Sony a7 II:

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