CameraReview

Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX8 vs Panasonic Lumix GX85 (GX80) — Which Is Better?

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

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Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX8
Panasonic
Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX8
Mirrorless · 20.3 MP · Micro Four Thirds · 4K video
63
SCORE
No live offers
Panasonic Lumix GX85 (GX80)
Panasonic
Panasonic Lumix GX85 (GX80)
Mirrorless · 16 MP · Micro Four Thirds · 4K video
54
SCORE
$364.68
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General
Brand PanasonicPanasonic
Model Lumix DMC-GX8Lumix GX85 (GX80)
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20152016
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
16/07/201505/04/2016
Camera type MirrorlessMirrorless
Camera size 133 x 78 x 63 mm122 x 71 x 44 mm
Camera weight 487 g426 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
20.3 MP05016 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
5184 x 38884592 x 3448
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.
13 x 17.313 x 17.3
Sensor format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
Micro Four ThirdsMicro 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.
10 fps0458 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 4/3Micro 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 EngineVenus 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.
4:34:3
Min ISO
Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image.
2003020020030200
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.
256003003280000256003003280000
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.
1003020010030200
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.
256003003280000256003003280000
Minimum shutter speed
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
60440806044080
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.
16000800320001600080032000
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.
490300490300
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 236000009900000276480009900000
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 21603840 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.
25 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.
AVCHD, MP4MP4, AVCHD
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 OLEDLCD
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.
1040000115000150000010400001150001500000
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 / SDXCSD / SDHC / SDXC
Dual memory card slots
Battery type DMW-BLC12DMW-BLG10
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
330 shots1505000290 shots1505000
USB charging

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX8 outperforms the Lumix DMC-GX80 with a score of 63/100 compared to the GX80’s 53/100. Both cameras share similarities as mirrorless models, with the GX8 released in 2015 and the GX80 in 2016. The GX8 is superior in terms of size, measuring 133 x 78 x 63mm and weighing 487g, offering more stability and a better grip. However, the GX80 is lighter at 426g and more compact at 122 x 71 x 44mm, making it easier to carry around. The GX8’s higher score reflects its better performance, but the GX80’s lower launch price of $800 compared to the GX8’s $1200 may appeal to budget-conscious buyers. Considering these factors, the GX8 is the better choice for those prioritizing performance, while the GX80 offers a more affordable option.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX8 vs Lumix DMC-GX80 Overview and Optics

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX8 outperforms the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX80 in optics with a score of 65/100 compared to the GX80’s 55/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including a CMOS sensor, Venus Engine processor, Micro Four Thirds sensor size, Micro 4/3 lens mount, and image stabilization.

The GX8 surpasses the GX80 in specific areas, such as having a higher megapixel count of 20.3 compared to the GX80’s 16 megapixels. This difference results in the GX8 producing sharper and more detailed images. Additionally, the GX8 has a faster shooting speed of 10 frames per second, which is beneficial for capturing fast-moving subjects and action shots. The GX8’s sensor also received a higher DXOMARK score of 75, reflecting better overall image quality and performance.

On the other hand, the GX80 has a slightly lower shooting speed of 8 frames per second, which may not be as efficient for capturing fast-moving subjects. While the GX80’s DXOMARK score of 71 is lower than the GX8’s, it still indicates decent image quality and performance.

Taking all factors into account, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX8 emerges as the superior camera in terms of optics, offering a higher megapixel count, faster shooting speed, and better sensor performance. The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX80, though not as strong in these areas, still provides respectable image quality and performance, making it a suitable choice for those on a tighter budget or with less demanding photography needs.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX8 vs Lumix DMC-GX80 Video Performance

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX80 outperforms the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX8 in video capabilities with a score of 83/100 compared to the latter’s 70/100. Both cameras share common specifications, such as 4K maximum video resolution and 3840 x 2160 maximum video dimensions. They also both have built-in time-lapse functionality.

The Lumix DMC-GX80 boasts a higher maximum video frame rate of 60fps, which is double the DMC-GX8’s 25fps. This significant difference allows the DMC-GX80 to capture smoother, more detailed footage, especially in fast-moving scenes or when recording action sequences. This advantage makes the DMC-GX80 a more suitable choice for videographers who require higher frame rates for their projects.

On the other hand, the Lumix DMC-GX8 does not offer any specific advantages in video capabilities over the DMC-GX80. Its lower frame rate of 25fps makes it less versatile for capturing fast-paced footage, and it shares the same video resolution and dimensions as its counterpart.

Taking these factors into account, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX80 is the clear winner in terms of video capabilities. Its higher frame rate of 60fps provides smoother, more detailed footage, making it a better option for videographers who need to capture fast-moving subjects or scenes. The Lumix DMC-GX8, while still offering 4K resolution and time-lapse functionality, falls short in comparison due to its lower frame rate.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX8 vs Lumix DMC-GX80 Features and Benefits

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX8 emerges as the winner in this comparison with a feature score of 70/100, while the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX80 scores 57/100. Both cameras share several common specifications, including a 3-inch screen size, 1,040,000-dot screen resolution, a touchscreen, a flip screen, GPS absence, WiFi, and no Bluetooth.

The Lumix DMC-GX8 is superior due to its higher feature score. This camera’s advantages could be attributed to additional features or improved performance in certain areas not mentioned in the provided specifications. Therefore, the Lumix DMC-GX8 is the preferable option for photographers seeking a camera with more advanced features and capabilities.

On the other hand, the Lumix DMC-GX80’s lower feature score might indicate a more budget-friendly option for those who do not require the additional features or performance enhancements offered by the Lumix DMC-GX8. Despite having a lower score, the Lumix DMC-GX80 still offers a solid set of features, making it a viable choice for photographers on a budget or those who prioritize simplicity.

In comparing the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX8 and Lumix DMC-GX80, the Lumix DMC-GX8 is the better camera due to its higher feature score. However, the Lumix DMC-GX80 remains a worthwhile option for those seeking a more budget-friendly or simplified camera experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras depends on the individual photographer’s needs, preferences, and budget.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX8 vs Lumix DMC-GX80 Storage and Battery

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX8 wins in the storage and battery category with a score of 21/100, compared to the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX80’s score of 16/100. Both cameras have one memory card slot and accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards.

The GX8 is superior in battery life, providing 330 shots per charge, while the GX80 offers 290 shots. The GX8 uses a DMW-BLC12 battery type, while the GX80 uses a DMW-BLG10 battery. Neither camera has USB charging capabilities.

The GX80 does not hold any advantages over the GX8 in this category.

Therefore, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX8 is the better choice for storage and battery performance, delivering longer battery life and sharing the same memory card compatibility as the GX80.

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