Side-by-side specs, scores and live prices. Start over
 58
SCORE
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✓ WINNER
 84
SCORE
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| General | ||
| Brand | Panasonic | Sony |
| Model | Lumix DMC-GH4 | a7 IV |
Released ⓘRefers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. |
2014 | 2021 |
Announcement date ⓘRefers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. |
07/02/2014 | 21/10/2021 |
| Camera type | Mirrorless | Mirrorless |
| Camera size | 133 x 93 x 84 mm | 131 x 96 x 80 mm |
| Camera weight | 560 g | 659 g |
| Optics | ||
Megapixels ⓘThe higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. |
16 MP050 | 33 MP050 |
Image resolution ⓘImage resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution. |
4608 x 3456 | 7008 x 4672 |
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 | 23.8 x 35.6 |
Sensor format ⓘRefers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |
Micro Four Thirds | Full Frame |
Continuous shooting ⓘThe number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. |
12 fps045 | 10 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. |
Micro 4/3 | Sony E |
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 | Bionz XR |
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 | 3:2 |
Min ISO ⓘRefers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image. |
20030200 | 10030200 |
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. |
256003003280000 | 512003003280000 |
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. |
10030200 | 5030200 |
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. |
256003003280000 | 2044003003280000 |
Minimum shutter speed ⓘThe minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory. |
6044080 | 3044080 |
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. |
800080032000 | 800080032000 |
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. |
490300 | 7590300 |
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. |
Electronic | Electronic |
| Viewfinder dots | 235900009900000 | 368640009900000 |
| 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. |
4K | 4K |
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. |
4096 x 2160 | 3840 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. |
24 fps | 120 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, MP4, AVCHD | MPEG-4, XAVC S, XAVC HS, XAVC S-I, H.264, H.265 |
| 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 | 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 dots ⓘScreen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. |
10360001150001500000 | 10400001150001500000 |
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 / SDHC / SDXC | CFexpress Type A, SD (UHS-II compatible) |
| Dual memory card slots | ✓ | ✓ |
| Battery type | DMW-BLF19 | NP-FZ100 |
Battery life ⓘApproximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. |
500 shots1505000 | 580 shots1505000 |
| USB charging | ✗ | ✓ |
The Sony a7 IV emerges as the winner with a score of 84/100, outperforming the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4, which scores 58/100. Both cameras are mirrorless and share similar dimensions, with the Sony a7 IV measuring 131 x 96 x 80mm and the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 measuring 133 x 93 x 84mm.
The Sony a7 IV outshines the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 with its more recent release in 2021 and a higher launch price of $2499, indicating advanced features and improved performance. Additionally, the Sony a7 IV is slightly heavier at 659g compared to the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 at 560g, suggesting a more robust build quality.
On the other hand, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 has a lower launch price of $1700, making it a more budget-friendly option for those looking to save on camera costs. However, it’s important to note that it was released in 2014, which means it may lack some of the more modern features available in the Sony a7 IV.
Taking these factors into account, the Sony a7 IV proves to be the superior camera with its higher score and more advanced specifications. Despite its higher cost, investing in the Sony a7 IV would likely result in better overall performance and features. On the other hand, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 remains a viable option for those on a budget who are willing to compromise on the latest features.
The Sony a7 IV outperforms the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 in optics, scoring 85/100 compared to the GH4’s 52/100. Both cameras share similarities in specifications, including the use of CMOS sensors and having a shooting speed of 10 and 12 frames per second for the a7 IV and GH4, respectively. Additionally, both cameras utilize their respective processors, the Bionz XR for the Sony a7 IV and the Venus Engine IX for the Panasonic GH4.
The Sony a7 IV excels in several aspects. It boasts a higher megapixel count at 33 compared to the GH4’s 16, which results in better image resolution. Additionally, the a7 IV has a superior DXOMARK sensor score of 97, while the GH4 scores 74. This difference highlights the a7 IV’s better performance in low light and dynamic range. Furthermore, the Sony a7 IV has a full-frame sensor, which provides better image quality and low-light performance compared to the GH4’s Micro Four Thirds sensor. Lastly, the a7 IV features image stabilization and uses the Sony FE lens mount, which offers a wider selection of lenses compared to the GH4’s Micro 4/3 mount.
The Panasonic GH4 has its advantages as well. Its slightly faster shooting speed of 12 frames per second may be more suitable for capturing fast-moving subjects. However, this advantage is relatively minor compared to the overall benefits offered by the Sony a7 IV.
Considering the differences in optics, the Sony a7 IV proves to be a superior camera due to its higher megapixel count, better sensor performance, full-frame sensor size, image stabilization, and broader lens compatibility. While the Panasonic GH4 has a marginally faster shooting speed, it falls short in other aspects, making the Sony a7 IV the clear winner in this comparison.
The Sony a7 IV outperforms the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 in video capabilities with a score of 91/100, a 21-point difference from the GH4’s score of 70/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as 4K video resolution and built-in time-lapse functionality. However, the Sony a7 IV surpasses the GH4 in several key areas.
The a7 IV has a maximum video frame rate of 120fps, compared to the GH4’s 24fps. This higher frame rate allows the a7 IV to capture smoother and more detailed slow-motion footage, making it a more versatile choice for videographers. The GH4’s maximum video dimensions are 4096 x 2160, slightly larger than the a7 IV’s 3840 x 2160. However, this difference is minimal and should not significantly impact video quality.
While the Panasonic GH4 offers a larger video dimension, the Sony a7 IV’s superior frame rate, combined with its overall higher video score, makes it the better choice for video capabilities. The GH4’s advantage in video dimensions is not enough to outweigh the a7 IV’s benefits.
After considering the video capabilities of both cameras, it is clear that the Sony a7 IV is the superior option for videographers due to its higher video score and impressive maximum frame rate. The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4, while still a capable camera, falls short in comparison to the a7 IV.
The Sony a7 IV outperforms the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 with a feature score of 83/100 compared to 70/100. Both cameras share several common specifications, including a 3-inch screen size, touchscreen capabilities, flip screen, GPS absence, and WIFI connectivity.
The Sony a7 IV surpasses the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 in specific aspects. It has a slightly higher screen resolution of 1,040,000 dots, compared to the GH4’s 1,036,000 dots. This difference results in a marginally sharper and clearer display on the a7 IV. Additionally, the Sony a7 IV offers Bluetooth connectivity, which the GH4 lacks. Bluetooth enhances the ease of transferring files and remote controlling the camera, providing added convenience for users.
On the other hand, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 does not outshine the Sony a7 IV in any particular feature. Both cameras share similar specifications, with the a7 IV holding a slight edge in screen resolution and Bluetooth connectivity. The GH4’s lower feature score reflects its inability to surpass the a7 IV in these areas.
The Sony a7 IV is the superior camera due to its higher feature score, resulting from its marginally better screen resolution and Bluetooth connectivity. While the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 remains a competent camera, it does not excel in any particular area when compared to the a7 IV. Users seeking a camera with more advanced features and connectivity options should opt for the Sony a7 IV.
The Sony a7 IV wins the storage and battery comparison with a score of 76/100, while the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 receives a score of 60/100. Both cameras have two memory card slots and accept SD memory cards. However, the Sony a7 IV also supports CFexpress Type A cards and is compatible with UHS-II SD cards, offering faster data transfer rates.
The Sony a7 IV’s battery life of 580 shots surpasses the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4’s 500 shots. Additionally, the a7 IV features USB charging, giving users a convenient option for recharging the NP-FZ100 battery. The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4, on the other hand, lacks USB charging and relies on its DMW-BLF19 battery.
While the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 falls short in battery life and USB charging, it still offers a decent battery life of 500 shots and supports SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards. However, the Sony a7 IV’s superior battery life, USB charging, and advanced memory card compatibility make it the better choice for storage and battery capabilities.
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 IV:
