The updated GF5 from the “stylish” Lumix series doesn’t look much different from its predecessor GF3 released a year ago. The same matrix resolution, the same screen size, the same dimensions and weight, and no evident improvements in functionality. The camera, nevertheless, became better and more attractive in many respects. Only now it attracts not so much design connoisseurs but ordinary people who have decided to replace with a “system” device an old compact.
12.1 MP 14-42 mm, F3.5-5.6, O. I.S. 3″ $620
The main thing in this context are, of course, the physical dimensions. Amateurs don’t want to pay for quality with comfort, so the developers are doing their best to bring the “system” devices close to the convenience of pocket compacts. Panasonic engineers could not make GF5 smaller 108×67×37 mm , but they managed to create interesting “folding” lens X Vario PZ 14-42mm. Extendable optics fold into an almost flat tube, so that the GF5 with its kit zoom is one of the most portable system compacts when measuring with the lens in place.
Amateurs also like the “scene guide” with two dozen different programs and additional filters for “creative” image processing. You don’t have to do much creative work: intelligent automatics, if necessary, can tell you which filter is right for you!
Among other improvements, we note the updated display with a resolution of 920 thousand. Points and an improved body with a new textured grip. There was also a stereo microphone assembled on the edge of the left side of the lens, which puts the potential merits of stereo sound under great question and a built-in orientation sensor.
The previous 12-megapixel sensor has also been seriously revised, and along with improved electronics it promises notable progress over last year’s model. The purposeful struggle for quality can be seen even in the figures: sensitivity limiting value in GF5 grew one step higher, up to 12 800 ISO.
Of course, GF5 hasn’t reached a qualitatively new level – wait for the answer in the next series, as they say. However, the novelty is an excellent replacement for an amateur compact and a good variant of a portable “system” camera for experienced photographers. The choice of colors in body design remained, but as well as before, the classic dark and white variants look the most advantageous.
Is the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF5 a worth-it compact camera option? I’m considering buying it and would love to know more about its features, image quality, and overall performance. Any recommendations or insights from those who have used it would be highly appreciated!
Can you please provide insights on the performance, image quality, and user-friendliness of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF5? Would you recommend it for casual photographers or is it more suitable for professionals? Any notable features or drawbacks worth mentioning? Thank you!