Panasonic has announced its latest Micro Four Thirds mirrorless camera: The Lumix GH5 II, an update to the much-loved GH5, which debuted back in 2017.
While the GH5 II retains many of the capabilities that made the GH5 such a praiseworthy camera, it also features several upgrades – particularly to its videography and streaming options, though also for action photography, low-light photography, and more.
Let’s take a closer look.
Panasonic Lumix GH5 II: What does it offer?
The Lumix GH5 II is a Micro Four Thirds camera combining significant photography and videography capabilities; as such, it should appeal to both enthusiast and professional hybrid shooters, though it can certainly perform well as a standalone photography or videography option.
Here are the key features that are identical (or nearly identical) to those on the GH5:
- The GH5 II packs the same build as the GH5, including solid construction and weather resistance. The GH5 II is perfect for the outdoor photographer or videographer, though heavier than hobbyist alternatives.
- The sensor is the 20 MP MFT technology used in the GH5, but Panasonic has added a new anti-reflective coating for better backlit shooting.
- Like the GH5, the GH5 II features dual SD card slots, useful for professionals who require redundancy in their work.
- 12 frames-per-second continuous shooting (in AF-S) and 9 frames-per-second continuous shooting (in AF-C) promise decent action performance.
- The electronic viewfinder remains a respectable 3.68M dots.
And here’s what you get from the GH5 II over the GH5:
- 10-bit 4:2:0 DCI 4K/60p; pre-installed V-Log L for improved dynamic range; simultaneous external 10-bit 4:2:2 4K and internal 10-bit 4:2:0 4K recording.
- The GH5 II supports wireless live streaming. As Panasonic explains, with the GH5 II, “high-quality live streaming is possible with minimum equipment – only the camera and a smartphone are required…in either an indoor or outdoor environment.”
- Improved autofocus performance. Panasonic claims that the GH5 II “features high-speed and high-precision AF” that “detects eyes and faces at a 2x faster recognition-cycle speed than the GH5.” The camera also packs “enhanced AF-C, which…enables users to keep tracking small or fast-moving subjects.”
- An improved buffer for action photography (108+ RAWs, 999+ JPEGs).
- 6.5 stops of in-body image stabilization versus the 5 stops of IBIS on the GH5 – a small but useful upgrade for low-light photography (and handheld videography).
- (Slightly) increased resolution on the fully articulating touchscreen, though with a subtle decrease in size.
On the whole, upgrades for photographers are relatively minor. If you’re primarily a stills shooter, these enhancements probably won’t justify shelling out for the GH5 II over the GH5 (and you may be better off considering a different Panasonic camera).
But for hybrid shooters and videographers requiring top-notch recording and/or streaming capabilities, the GH5 II is certainly an appealing package.
Panasonic Lumix GH5 II: Price and release date
You can preorder the Panasonic Lumix GH5 II for a reasonable $1699 USD ($2299 when bundled with the Leica 12-60mm f/2.8-4 lens). Orders will begin shipping in late June.
So if the GH5 II’s new features appeal to you, I highly recommend you check it out (though you should also keep an eye out for news regarding the just-announced Lumix GH6).
Now over to you:
What do you think of the Panasonic Lumix GH5 II? Are you disappointed by the lack of upgrades? Or pleased by what the GH5 II does include? Would you consider buying it? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
