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Panasonic Lumix GH5S vs Sony a7 III Comparison

Optics
Video
Features
Storage & Battery

Panasonic Lumix GH5S

Panasonic Lumix GH5S GH5 camera image
62%

Sony a7 III

Sony A7 III camera
Winner!
81%
Panasonic Lumix GH5S
vs
Sony a7 III
Price
Brand
Panasonic
Sony
Model
Lumix GH5S
a7 III
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
2017
2018
Announcement Date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
January 08, 2017
February 27, 2018
Camera Type
Mirrorless
Mirrorless
Camera Size
Camera Weight

The Sony a7 III outperforms the Panasonic Lumix GH5S with a score of 80/100 compared to 62/100. Both cameras are mirrorless and were released within a year of each other. They share similar dimensions and weight, with the GH5S being slightly larger and heavier. The Sony a7 III’s superior score is due to its better specifications and a lower launch price of $2000 versus the GH5S’s $2500.

The Panasonic Lumix GH5S, however, has its strengths, such as being released earlier in 2017. Ultimately, the Sony a7 III is the better camera, offering more advanced features at a more affordable price, making it the winner in this comparison.

Panasonic Lumix GH5S vs Sony a7 III Overview and Optics

The Sony a7 III outperforms the Panasonic Lumix GH5S in optics with a score of 81/100, a 28-point lead over the GH5S’s 53/100. Both cameras share similarities, such as CMOS sensor types and processors. However, the Sony a7 III excels in several aspects, while the Panasonic Lumix GH5S has its own advantages.

The Sony a7 III has a higher megapixel count at 24.2, compared to the GH5S’s 10 megapixels. This difference allows the Sony a7 III to capture more detail in images. The a7 III also has a better DXOMARK sensor score of 96, significantly higher than the GH5S’s 74. This higher score results from the Sony a7 III’s full-frame sensor size, which is larger than the GH5S’s Micro Four Thirds sensor. The Sony a7 III also features image stabilization, which the GH5S lacks. This advantage helps reduce camera shake and improve image quality.

On the other hand, the Panasonic Lumix GH5S has a faster shooting speed of 12, compared to the Sony a7 III’s 10. This advantage allows the GH5S to capture more frames per second, which can be beneficial for action shots and fast-moving subjects.

Each camera has its strengths and weaknesses. The Sony a7 III is superior in image quality, sensor performance, and stabilization. In contrast, the Panasonic Lumix GH5S offers a faster shooting speed. Ultimately, the choice between these cameras depends on individual preferences and shooting requirements. The Sony a7 III is better suited for those seeking higher image quality, while the GH5S caters to those who prioritize speed.

Optics
Optics
53%
81%
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
10 MP
24.2 MP
Image Resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
3680 x 2760 px
6000 x 4000 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.
19.2 x 13 mm
23.8 x 35.6 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
10 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 10
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.
160
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.
51,200
51,200
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.
80
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.
204800
204800
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.
225
693
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
3,680,000 dots
2,359,296 dots

Panasonic Lumix GH5S vs Sony a7 III Video Performance

The Panasonic Lumix GH5S outperforms the Sony a7 III in video capabilities with a video score of 69/100 compared to the Sony a7 III’s 56/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as having a maximum video resolution of 4K and not having built-in time-lapse functionality.

The Panasonic Lumix GH5S surpasses the Sony a7 III in terms of maximum video dimensions, offering 4096 x 2160 pixels while the Sony a7 III provides 3840 x 2160 pixels. This difference results in the GH5S delivering larger and more detailed video output. Furthermore, the GH5S has a higher maximum video frame rate of 60fps, which is twice the 30fps offered by the Sony a7 III. This advantage allows the GH5S to capture smoother and more fluid motion in videos, particularly in fast-moving scenes.

On the other hand, the Sony a7 III does not have any distinct advantages over the Panasonic Lumix GH5S in terms of video capabilities. Both cameras lack built-in time-lapse functionality, and the a7 III’s video specifications are generally lower than those of the GH5S.

Considering these factors, the Panasonic Lumix GH5S proves to be a superior choice for videographers seeking higher video quality and smoother motion capture. The Sony a7 III, while still a capable camera, falls short in comparison to the GH5S in terms of video performance.

Video
Video
69%
56%
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 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.
60 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.
MPEG-4, MOV
XAVC S, AVCHD

Panasonic Lumix GH5S vs Sony a7 III Features and Benefits

The Panasonic Lumix GH5S outperforms the Sony a7 III in terms of features, scoring 87 out of 100, while the Sony a7 III scores 81. Both cameras share several specifications, including a touchscreen, a flip screen, WIFI, and Bluetooth connectivity. Neither camera has GPS functionality.

The Lumix GH5S excels with its larger screen size of 3.2 inches, compared to the Sony a7 III’s 3-inch screen. The GH5S also boasts a higher screen resolution, with 1,620,000 dots, whereas the a7 III has a lower resolution of 921,600 dots. The larger screen and better resolution of the GH5S provide users with a clearer and more detailed view during shooting and playback.

The Sony a7 III does not have any notable advantages over the Panasonic Lumix GH5S in terms of features, as both cameras share most specifications. The lower score of the a7 III indicates that it falls short in comparison to the GH5S in this aspect.

Considering the feature scores and specifications, the Panasonic Lumix GH5S is the superior camera in this comparison. Its larger screen size and higher resolution make it a better choice for users who prioritize these aspects. While the Sony a7 III shares many features with the GH5S, it lacks any standout advantages to surpass the GH5S’s higher score.

Features
Features
87%
81%
Built-in 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
TFT 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
3.2"
3"
Screen Resolution
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
1,620,000 dots
921,600 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 GH5S vs Sony a7 III Storage and Battery

The Sony a7 III wins the storage and battery comparison with a score of 68/100, while the Panasonic Lumix GH5S scores 57/100. Both cameras share common specifications, such as having two memory card slots and no USB charging. They also accept SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards, but the Sony a7 III additionally supports Memory Stick Duo/Pro Duo/Pro-HG Duo cards.

The Sony a7 III’s advantage lies in its longer battery life, with 750 shots compared to the Panasonic GH5S’s 440 shots. This makes the Sony a7 III more suitable for extended shooting sessions. The Panasonic GH5S, however, does not have any specific advantages in storage and battery.

Given these points, the Sony a7 III is the better choice for photographers who require longer battery life and additional memory card compatibility. The Panasonic GH5S falls short in this aspect, making the Sony a7 III the clear winner in the storage and battery comparison.

Storage and Battery
Storage and Battery
57%
81%
Memory Card
SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible)
SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Duo / Pro Duo / Pro-HG Duo
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.
440 shots
750 shots
USB Charging
DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK
Overall Score
DXOMARK overall sensor score.
N/A
96%
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.'
N/A
25.1 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.'
N/A
14.7 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'
N/A
3722
Scores
Main Features
N/A
84%
Extra Features
N/A
72%
Construction and Durability
N/A
67%
Handling and Ergonomics
N/A
67%
Value for Money
N/A
110%
Total Score
N/A
81%

Panasonic Lumix GH5S vs Sony a7 III – Our Verdict

Panasonic Lumix GH5S vs Sony a7 III Comparison image.

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