Panasonic Lumix GH5 review

Blurring the lines between stills and video

Why you can trust TechRadar We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you’re buying the best. Find out more about how we test.

Verdict

While the last couple of GH-series cameras have felt a little like video cameras masquerading as stills camera, the Panasonic Lumix GH5 is a much more rounded piece of kit.

The video specification and capabilities offered are still impressive – this is certainly one of, if not the best 4K camera solutions out there, before you start considering dedicated professional video cameras.

The Lumix GH5 also has size on its side. While the camera itself is proportionally similar to that of a serious DSLR, the Micro Four Thirds mount means that overall it's a much more compact package than APS-C or full-frame rivals thanks to the smaller optics.

As we've mentioned though, the pay-off of this smaller sensor is that the GH5's image quality can't quite match its larger-sensor rivals. They're not poles apart, but if your main concern is ultimate image quality then that's something to bear in mind. 

But that's just part of the story, as the GH5 has a lot to offer the stills photographer as well. 

Build and handling are both great, with plenty of easily reached body-mounted controls, a refined touchscreen interface and bright and large EVF. Then there's the 5-axis IS and super-quick AF system, as well as the rapid shooting speed, making the GH5 a camera that will keep up with even the most demanding of shooting situations.

In a nutshell, then, the Panasonic Lumix GH5 is a great choice for those looking for a sophisticated all-in-one solution that's just at home shooting great stills as well as breathtaking video.

Competition

Phil Hall

Phil Hall is an experienced writer and editor having worked on some of the largest photography magazines in the UK, and now edit the photography channel of TechRadar, the UK's biggest tech website and one of the largest in the world. He has also worked on numerous commercial projects, including working with manufacturers like Nikon and Fujifilm on bespoke printed and online camera guides, as well as writing technique blogs and copy for the John Lewis Technology guide.

Latest in Mirrorless Cameras
Close up of Leica M11-P viewfinder
I wince at the prospect of the rumored Leica M11-V – here's why
Nikon Zf camera in the hand with Z 28mm F2.8 SE lens attached
Forget Fujifilm – Nikon's retro full-frame Zf camera hits new low price in the Amazon Spring Sale
Canon EOS R50 V on a wooden table, alongside the EOS R50
I tried Canon's two new vlogging cameras – here's why the EOS R50 V offers better video value
Nikon Z5
The Nikon Z5 II could land soon – here's what to expect from Nikon's rumored entry-level full-frame camera
L-mount alliance
Sirui joins L-Mount Alliance to deliver its superb budget lenses for Leica, DJI, Sigma and Panasonic cameras
Nikon Z8 camera in the hand with 4-axis screen pulled out
We think the Nikon Z8 is the best hybrid camera for pros and it just hit a record-low price
Latest in Reviews
Product shots for the Xiaomi Poco X7 Ultra review
I spent a month testing the Xiaomi Poco F7 Ultra, a top-end mid-ranger that masquerades as a flagship
The Kiwi design K4 Boost Battery strap being worn by Hamish
I test VR headsets for a living, and this affordable headstrap is the first Meta Quest 3 accessory you should buy
Both Kiwi design G4 Pro Performance Controller Grips
I thought VR controller grips were pointless until this Meta Quest 3 accessory proved me wrong
The Kiwi design H4 Boost Halo Battery Strap
Want to upgrade your VR headset? Look no further than my new favorite Meta Quest 3 headstrap
WithSecure Elements EPP and EDR main image
I tested the WithSecure Elements EPP and EDR - read how I rated this Endpoint Protection for small business
The RIG M2 Streamstar.
I wanted to love the new RIG M2 Streamstar, but this pricey gaming microphone fails to deliver