Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 vs Sony a7S II
Comparison
Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4
Sony a7S II
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Brand | Panasonic | Sony | |
Model | Lumix DMC-GH4 | a7S II | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2014 | 2015 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | February 07, 2014 | September 11, 2015 | |
Camera Type |  Mirrorless | Mirrorless | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Sony a7S II edges out the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 with a score of 60/100 compared to the GH4’s 58/100. Both cameras are mirrorless and were released in 2014 and 2015, respectively. They share similarities in size and weight, with the GH4 measuring 133 x 93 x 84mm and weighing 560g, while the a7S II measures 127 x 96 x 60mm and weighs 627g.
The a7S II’s higher score comes from its superior specifications, despite its higher launch price of $3000 compared to the GH4’s $1700. The GH4, however, is slightly lighter and more compact, which may appeal to some users.
Considering the scores and specifications, the Sony a7S II is the better choice for those seeking higher performance, while the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 offers a more budget-friendly and compact option.
Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 vs Sony a7S II Overview and Optics
The Sony a7S II emerges as the winner in the optics comparison with a score of 66/100, while the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 scores 52/100. Both cameras share some specifications, such as the CMOS sensor type and a similar processor, with the GH4 using Venus Engine IX and the a7S II using Bionz X.
The Sony a7S II outperforms the Panasonic GH4 in several aspects. First, it has a higher DXOMARK score for the sensor at 85, compared to the GH4’s 74. This means the a7S II produces better image quality. Additionally, the a7S II has a larger full-frame sensor, whereas the GH4 has a smaller Micro Four Thirds sensor. This leads to better low-light performance and a shallower depth of field for the Sony camera. Furthermore, the a7S II offers image stabilization, while the GH4 lacks this feature. The Sony camera also has a wider aspect ratio of 3:2, compared to the GH4’s 4:3 ratio.
On the other hand, the Panasonic GH4 has some advantages over the Sony a7S II. It has a higher megapixel count at 16, compared to the a7S II’s 12.2, resulting in more detailed images. The GH4 also offers a faster shooting speed of 12, while the a7S II has a slower speed of 5. This makes the GH4 more suitable for action photography.
Taking these factors into account, the Sony a7S II stands out as the better camera in terms of optics, with its higher DXOMARK score, larger sensor size, image stabilization, and wider aspect ratio. However, the Panasonic GH4 holds its ground with a higher megapixel count and faster shooting speed, making it a viable option for those seeking more detailed images and action photography capabilities.
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Optics
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Sony a7S II
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 16 MP | 12.2 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 | 4240 x 2832 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 | 23.8 x 35.8 mm | |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |  Micro Four Thirds |  Full Frame | |
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 | Sony FE | |
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 X | |
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 | |
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 | 100 | |
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 | 102,400 | |
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 | 50 | |
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 | 409600 | |
Minimum Shutter Speed The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory. | 60 s | 30 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 | 169 | |
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 | 2,359,296 dots |
Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 vs Sony a7S II Video Performance
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 outperforms the Sony a7S II in video capabilities, scoring 70 out of 100 compared to the Sony’s 56. Both cameras share some common video specifications, such as 4K maximum video resolution. However, the Panasonic GH4 has a higher maximum video dimension of 4096 x 2160, while the Sony a7S II’s maximum is 3840 x 2160. Additionally, the Panasonic GH4 includes a built-in time-lapse functionality, which the Sony a7S II lacks.
The Panasonic GH4’s higher video score is due to its better video dimensions and the inclusion of time-lapse functionality. These features make the GH4 more versatile in creating high-quality video content, providing users with more creative options and flexibility.
On the other hand, the Sony a7S II has a higher maximum video frame rate of 30fps, compared to the Panasonic GH4’s 24fps. This allows for smoother video playback and better slow-motion capabilities, making the Sony a7S II a more suitable option for those who prioritize capturing fast-paced action.
Both cameras have their strengths and weaknesses in video performance. The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 offers a more comprehensive set of video features, making it the better choice for filmmakers and content creators who require versatility and advanced video options. The Sony a7S II, however, may be more appealing to users who prioritize capturing smooth, high-quality video in fast-paced environments. Each camera serves a distinct purpose and caters to different user needs in the realm of video capabilities.
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Video
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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 | 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. | 4096 x 2160 px | 3840 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. | 24 p | 30 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 | MPEG-4, AVCHD, XAVC S |
Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 vs Sony a7S II Features and Benefits
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 outperforms the Sony a7S II in terms of features, scoring 70/100 compared to the Sony’s 57/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as a 3-inch screen size, lack of GPS, and the presence of WIFI connectivity. They also both do not have Bluetooth capabilities.
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 has a touchscreen, while the Sony a7S II does not. This allows for easier navigation and control when using the camera. Additionally, both cameras have a flip screen, but the higher feature score of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 suggests that it has more advanced and useful features overall.
On the other hand, the Sony a7S II has a higher screen resolution of 1,228,800 dots, compared to the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4’s 1,036,000 dots. This means that the Sony a7S II provides a clearer and sharper image on its screen.
In terms of features, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 is the better camera due to its higher score and the presence of a touchscreen. The Sony a7S II does have a higher screen resolution, which may be an advantage for some users. However, the overall higher feature score of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 makes it the more appealing option for those looking for a camera with more advanced and useful features.
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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. | 1,036,000 dots | 1,228,800 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 Sony a7S II Storage and Battery
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 outperforms the Sony a7S II in storage and battery with a score of 60/100, compared to the Sony’s 21/100. Both cameras accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards, but the Lumix GH4 also has two memory card slots, while the a7S II only has one. Additionally, the a7S II accepts Memory Stick Duo, Pro Duo, and Pro-HG Duo cards.
The Lumix GH4 also has a longer battery life, allowing for 500 shots compared to the a7S II’s 370 shots. Both cameras use different battery types, with the GH4 using a DMW-BLF19 and the a7S II using an NP-FW50. Neither camera offers USB charging.
The Lumix GH4’s advantages in storage and battery life make it a more reliable choice for extended shooting sessions and increased storage capacity. The a7S II does have the added flexibility of accepting Memory Stick cards, but this does not make up for its shorter battery life and single memory card slot.
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Storage and Battery
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC | SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Duo / Pro Duo / Pro-HG Duo | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | DMW-BLF19 | NP-FW50 | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 500 shots | 370 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
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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 | 23.6 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 | 13.3 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 | 2993 |
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Scores
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Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4
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Sony a7S II
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Alternatives to the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 and Sony a7S II
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 a7S II:
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User Scores
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Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4
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Sony a7S II
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B&H photo video |
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