I revisited this video after replacing my OM-1 with a G9 II recently and this camera is simply ridiculous. APS-C levels of image quality with DR boost on. Full frame stacked sensor flagship level burst rates. Stupidly deep buffer. 100 MP HHHR with motion compensation. Industry leading video specifications. High quality selection of ports and card slots. Aside from the size, I really can't fault anything about this camera.
OK, it's been 5 months since my last comment, and I sold my G9 and bought a G9 II. And I am impressed! Human autofocus and Animal autofocus both work very well.
I’ve been waiting for Lumix to give the G9 upgrades for photography and video. The features they’ve increased and added makes me happy I held out on the GH6 for this photography based G9II. I have to admit as a GX8, G95, and G9 owner.. I’m extremely happy and can’t wait to receive my G9II..
The original G9 is an extremely underrated camera overshadowed by the hysteria of the GH5 at the time. I use a G9 as a B Cam for my BMPCC 6K PRO and get fantastic results still. Not to mention the photo capabilities when I need it in a pinch. I have no doubt this mk 2 version will be great.
As a daily GH6 user, I've been wanting to add a Photo Body to my arsenal and this looks like it may be it. I can use all my same lenses & not have to invest in an entirely new (to me) system. While also getting a solid second angle video camera. Glad to see Panasonic isn't abandoning M43.
GH6 + GH9II looks to be a solid combo, although I'm thinking a GX9II would of be nicer (from a form factor aspect for street photography and more casual shoots) as there is a LOT of overlap between the two in terms of specs.
@@derJackistweg I use my cameras for multi-camera livestreams, so matching colors is a big plus. The G9II being so similar to the GH6 is a positive for me. Really my perfect camera is a GH6 with better Auto-Focus and photo capability. At least my "realistic perfect camera that fits my work & budget".
@@MandicReally right. Actually I can comprehend the low dynamic range that was mentioned here from my fotos as well. I was quite supriced by that and I expected to be in the same or better rage than a A6000 that I owned some years ago.
I own a Panasonic G9 and I love it especially after the firmware updates. It really is a nice hybrid camera for light work. I can't wait to get my hands on this new G9 body.
Still in my first year with M43 (OMS), and I'm enjoying it a great deal. Sensors continue to improve, computational photography and modern software seem to be making great strides as well, and the IBIS on my camera continues to amaze. I'd expect - about 18 months after the release of OM-1 - that this camera would leapfrog its competition and this seems to be what has happened. And when OMS updates/upgrades its flagship camera, the same thing _ought_ to occur, which is great for the consumer. I know of some people who are declaring M43 dead, but it seems that Panasonic and OMS disagree.
M43 has been dead for 14 years now, yet its still around, the media wants it to be dead, but the consumer side seems to do quite well. OM-1 is fantastic photography camera, but absolutely garbage for video, its worse in so many ways to a GH4, but thats okay, in my opinion, there TOO MUCH video these days, sometimes, I just want a camera, that does ONE thing.
@@andreatilli6227 I think he'd love it. As a photojournalist it's the type of seriously capable camera that he'd appreciate, even if he did roll his eyes a bit at the unnecessary video claptrap. But he did like the G9, and funnily enough, he said in his video, "if Panasonic were able to swallow their pride and put some phase detection points on the sensor, I don't see any how anyone could compete with it." How's that for foreshadowing? 😉 And that was 5 years ago! th-cam.com/video/EjYeF_PpoAw/w-d-xo.htmlsi=psIS-_1I-bHUGJXY
Very good to see you guys are still with us and, as a G9 user, I'm very encouraged to see Lumix invest in a G9 M2. I think the price point is just fine and I've been waiting for this Mark 2 to come along before investing in a second camera body. Time to empty out the ole' change jar.
So much to love with the new G9II. One area I really hope they have improved is the sensitivity of the front shutter button. I've taken so many shots unintentionally with my G9 as I'm primarily a front button shooter where I half press the shutter button but end up taking the photo instead of just focusing. New 25mp sensor is a really welcome addition and the 100mp hand held hi res mode. Lovely jubbly.
This makes me feel relieved about my decision to stick with Lumix cameras and the M43 ecosystem. I sure wish Panasonic had of integrated phase detect sooner but I can't really complain anymore because it's finally here. Think it's time for a G9-II pre-order!
This is looking like an excellent upgrade for my G9 and G95 when the early adopter price falls a bit. As usual, Panasonic did an excellent job. I'm happy to hear that the photographic dynamic range is competitive and that the video features held. I actually don't care that they dropped the top LCD panel and I rarely used the mode dial lock (but it still seems like a strange omission). I'll need to take a look at the size/weight comparison but this may end up replacing my G95 and relegating my OG G9 to backup status for weddings and events.
@@VoidShepherd agreed, the original G9 has aged like fine wine. I typically use my GX85 or G95 for most casual shooting due to size and weight. When I do turn to the G9, I'm always impressed by its performance. The G9 II is one more level up and I'll be interested to see if Panasonic is willing to add more computational photography features. AI noise reduction (think DxO DeepPRIME) is already very efficient on modern x86 processors, something like this should work with a multicore ARM processor in a modern M4/3 body. It would be nice to have an inbody AI NR option for when I need to send a JPEG from the camera to my phone for social media posting.
@@ScrattleGG for the G9 I like the PL 10-25 f/1.7 and the Oly 40-150 f/2.8. I also use it with the PL 12-60 f/2.8-4 sometimes. Edit: oh I forgot the Sigma 30 and 56 f/1.4
Panasonic is absolutely killing the camera game the past year. I bought an s5II because I said I would always try one if they did phase detect AF, I sold everything and bought a second one and moved platforms. It is the best camera I ever owned hands down, I came from an a73 platform, but I did use a z6 II for a while, and the Lumix platform is amazing and having all the native sigma glass allows you to build out your lenses without buying all first party for lesser used lenses without any drawbacks. My daughter is on the m4/3 platform, this looks like a homerun.
I unfortunately had to sell my only camera, the G9, because of rising cost of living. Loved that camera - hope to be able to afford the G9 II in a few years!
Thanks Chris and Jordan. The best news is that it's such a good hybrid that Jordan is filming with it already, it feels like the spiritual successor to the original GH5, despite smartphone competition.
I thought about getting away from Panasonic/M43, concentrating on the Nikon Z cameras. I still use a G9 as a 'webcam' camera. The GH6 drew me back in, and the G9II seems incredibly capable. The single most compelling feature is the full-sensor video [open gate] which allows a 4k vertical export. It also helps that the sensor is slightly closer to square than any full frame sensors, 1.33 vs 1.5 aspect ratio. For social media output, with a mix of horizontal and vertical formats, this is very compelling. Your first image was taken with one of the best M43 lenses, the Panasonic/Leica 42.5mm f/1.2.
Honestly I own the Z6, but I bring out my EM1II and GM1 a lot more out because of the utility and small size. My Z6 only exists to quell my "what if I actually need it" anxiety lol. I actually owned the G9, best body out there but sold off because I needed the PDAF reliability. Seeing the G9 II address my concern is awesome because i'm still not a fan of shooting my EM1II for just everyday needs.
I didn't bite when the GH6 came out (kept my GH4!), because I wanted PDAF. This looks like a hit! I can see Jordan using it as a primary camera for video reviews.
This camera looks to be an amazing hybrid machine! I really love the IQ from the GH6 so hearing that the G9ii has better dynamic range is super impressive. The GH6 is amazing but I just don't use the higher video settings and find that the body is a bit big for m43. This new camera might be a huge winner for this system. Thank you Chris and Jordan!!❤️❤️❤️
Very much want to upgrade for my wildlife photos. Just might wait for price to drop some. Kinda wild being priced just under 2k. I think it will drop rather quick price wise.
Personally I think the days of m43 being a budget option are over. It's actually cheaper to make full frame lenses than m43 lenses (a 50mm f/1.8 full frame lens is easier to engineer than an "equivalent" 25mm f/0.9 m43 lens for example). It used to be that sensor costs were a big advantage of m43, but this is no longer as significant.
Good Review Gents. Glad to see Panasonic moving forward with M43. I realized last month the only unique thing in my top of the range Panasonic/Olympus lens collection was the 100-400 telephoto. Everything else I preferred to shot on my FF Sony gear. So I traded in the entire collection including a G9 for a 200-600. The M43 tele was so small compared to the Sony but not worth carrying two systems. Good luck Panasonic, wish you weren’t so stubborn for so long on your autofocus.
I just got my G9II and it feels like the true successor to the GH5 as far as being a hybrid mirrorless. I also own the GH6 but as Jordan mentioned it leans much more towards video. Having both is a match made in heaven, at least until the GH7 arrives.
I love my G9 and wonder if the G9II retains the niche but very useful functions like macro focus stacking or focus bracketing. I don't care about in-camera stack processing, but with the improved stabilization I'd love to see if the G9II is an even more capable macro camera. The OM1's focus bracketing has had me considering that body.
Thanks for the review, guys! I don't think I'll be too quick in upgrading from my G9, which I love. I don't see the upgrades making it worth the price, and I think I would miss the top screen too much.
I was waiting for someone to say this. A side by side comparison is needed to see the real world differences. At this point, I think it is mainly video (especially with recording limit on the first model) and possibly the dynamic range that most people would find useful.
Yeah, surprised Chris didn't mention the subtraction of the top screen. I haven't thought much about it til now, but I think I've really got used to it being there.
@@youknowwho9247 People like you are so full of it. Sensor size in correct conditions does not matter in the slightest. Yes full frame sensors have better dynamic range and low light for the most part, but in most cases, it doesn't matter. Stop with this childish elitism.
@@D3AL1O That's just utter rubbish. Full frame provides more creative control over depth of field, cleaner and higher resolution images and higher dynamic range - in ALL shooting conditions. Anyone who claims anything else simply doesn't know what they're talking about. There are very good reason for why virtually no reputable, professional wedding photographer shoots MFT and why 95+% of all pros in any genre shoot full frame or larger sensors. The remaining 5% are paid brand ambassadors and viral marketing type influencers. There's absolutely no reason to pick MFT over full frame for stills. Full frame offers higher quality at better cost efficiency. It's an absolute no brainer.
@@youknowwho9247I went from an A7iii to a G9 with no regrets whatsover. For pros FF or Medium Format can absolutely be justified. Most of us are not pros and MFT cameras are much easier to fit photography around every day life events. My Sony gear more often didn't come with me as too bulky and ended up using my phone. Yes a G9 and A7 are similar sized bodies but the lenses are much smaller especially the zooms. The IBIS is way better on MFT so while High ISO performance is nowhere near as good I rarely go above 3200 as I can shoot at much slower shutter speeds. Waterfall shots with 1 sec exposure handheld no problem. Use same tiny primes as G9 on body I can fit in my jeans pocket, no problem. Shallow DoF is not always desirable. I shoot a lot of macro. MFT is way better for that especially if you don't want to image stack. The best camera is one you have with you. The best images are made from subject, light, composition and making the viewer feel something not from sharpness, dynamic range or bokeh. If FF is best for you that's great but it won't be best for everyone and their choice is as valid as yours.
I appreciate your initial review. It's great to see you and Jordan continuing over here. I'd love to see a comparison of this camera with the OM-1. It's my current camera. I wonder if they'll add to the computation features with firmware updates. Considering what they did with firmware updates with the original G9, I think it's possible. Let us know how the ergonomics work and if it's set up as well for quick, on-the-fly photography like the OM-1 is. Having all the computational features don't do much good if you have to dig through menus each time you want to use them. Since live ND is really just sophisticated computation to get a similar effect to conventional ND filters, this would seem to be something Panasonic could add. I have to wonder if this had been around a year ago when I got the OM-1, which I would have gone with. Oh, one last thing, when not using the monochrome color profile you seemed to really like, was the standard profile as natural as, well, the natural one on the OM-1? I find myself going between natural and vivid, not really sure which I like best. I like the way the camera handles jpeg rendering so much that I am more likely to use them than processing raws, unless dynamic range is an issue I need to try to work out for a shot. I appreciate your reading this if you do. Great work guys. I can't wait to see the full review!
$1900? This looks like a marvelous body. Look at the price. YIKES! As suggested below, I’ll wait for a sale. I see a Panasonic G9 ii in my future. Maybe two years in the future. Leica monochrome. What is that about? I LOVE Panasonic’s L Monochrome D. How are the two different? Looking forward to the phase detection being brought to the GX9 Mii. When you do this Panasonic Please, Please, Please include an audio in jack.
It's nice to see Panasonic still caring for the m43 crowd. Not swapping my OM-1 for this though - once you use a stacked sensor, there's no going back.
I agree. It's hard to give up the improved low-light performance and high ISO handling of the BSI sensor as well. It's not full frame, but it's far ahead of my previous Panasonic M43. I realized the 20MP limitation might be a drawback, but there's gain-loss consideration to everything. The readout speed wouldn't be as high if it were higher MP, and I'm rather curious to see how it handles dynamic range, after the seemingly same sensor used on the GH6 had issues there. Dual output gain might help, but will it be enough? It didn't seem to improve the photo quality of the GH6. Perhaps Panasonic has taken more time to iron out the issues with this model. The stacked BSI sensor really is a major improvement. I find that 20MP is a good compromise for this, where as 10 years ago we thought of 20MP as high res anyway. People were managing to print poster-sized prints, even billboards, with 8MP back in the day. So it's a nice-to-have, but not a must-have feature. It's mostly good for editing in post if you need to re-frame and crop in. However, I've cropped in 30-40% on photos taken with the OM-1 and had prints that looked very nice. It doesn't give you quite the leeway of higher MP cameras, but as I said, compromises exist for a reason. All that typing just to say, I agree with you on keeping the OM-1. I still have my old Panny, too. I really miss the ergonomics. It seemed to be a little easier to use on the fly. But I'm getting used to the OM-1 after a year.
@@jonathanscherer8567 One more thing I'd like to add - probably if I was more into filming than stills, I'd go with the G9ii. All in all, it's a good thing for the system that those two cameras target slightly different niches.
Jordan, I moved from Lumix G85 to Oly EM1.3 due to overall body quality. I mostly have Lumix lenses and wonder if I should consider moving back to the G9 II? Your input is appreciated.
Would like to see a full comparison with the G9 both in hand. Will people miss the top LCD screen? Most people like the original G9 for its body and handling, and the top LCD.
Finally! I was hoping so much for this camera to come out and i am not disappointed. Heres hoping that they get to sell a lot of them and we can get even more cool lenses and a "lite" version, like a newer g91!
Damn this seems like the complete package. And if I remember correctly Panasonic Hi-Res mode is much better at handling moving subjects than the OM1. So you can actually have full frame quality on landscapes. Impressive
Looks like everything I was hoping for in the GH6. I'll never need RAW or ProRes recording, but would like to play with Live View Composite, handheld hires, and Real Time LUTS.
@@MM-vc6mi because I have a whole line of m43 lenses already Including leica. Switching over would have me spend even more money on lenses and selling old gear and lenses isn't quite easy these days.
I'll never be able to afford, nor will ever buy this camera. But I sure do like watching these two guys do their thing, always informative and entertaining.
Doubt it will happen but I hope DR boost can re-implemented in the GH6 with the G9ii system. I don’t want to replace my GH6 body for a “photo” camera to upgrade a video feature
great review - don't know how i missed it. i've been shooting M4/3 since the GF1 came out, and i'm super happy to see panasonic is continuing to support it - and with such great upgrades!
The image quality looks great. This camera has really closed the gap with FF. Colours are beautiful and the additional dynamic range (esp vs the G9) is evident. I only wish it had the GH6’s screen with the tilt up / down angle option.
Great video. I have stuck with the older M1 Mark II. But I have spent some time with the G9, GH5II, XT4, and Z6II looking for a hybrid camera. Loved the ergonomics and video options on the GH5II. Somewhat interested in this G9II.
Thank you Chris and Jordan! This might actually be the camera that gets me back into the MFT ecosystem again. I've been holding on to my lenses for dear life waiting for the right body to turn up. I would love to learn more about its performance (especially for video) at 4000-6400 ISO though. That is my upper limit for video work and if this can deliver the goods, this is definitely my next camera :)
I shoot with a GH5 and an S1. I am so glad to have both systems. I will definitely be upgrading my gh5 to a G9II. I have shot with Canon, Nikon as well as Olympus, but Panasonic is by far my favorite system. Thank you Panasonic for continuing to deliver great products. The Leica branded lenses combined with the Panasonic cameras produce truly wonderful images. Thanks Chris and Jordan for the review. I have been watching you guys since you started. This camera looks fantastic! I can't wait for a new flagship full frame from Panasonic. The future looks great for camera users.
I'm thinking of changing from the OM Systems OM1 to this camera, I do have a GH5 mk2 for video. I have been using Olympus since 2016 starting with the E-M5II.
Man I still love my G9, already have a nice MFT lens selection and often prefer it for wildlife over my A7R3. This looks like a great upgrade especially for video. Great review as always!
Thanks for your excellent early review of the Panasonic G9 ii using pre-production firmware! I am convinced that the G9 ii is an awesome upgrade from the original Panasonic G9 in nearly all respects. However, with the new 25.2 MP dual-gain sensor on the G9 ii, I hope you might publish information about how the G9 ii image quality (with final production firmware) compares with the OM-1 and the original Panasonic G9 - across all ISO settings. I look forward to upgrading my Panasonic G85. Keep publishing your great videos; they are truly helpful !
25Mp in MFT is 100Mp in FF in terms of pixel density. I don't think anyone has done that. And in FF they do some chip magic to achieve this. Even 20Mp in MFT is ambitious. Don't get me wrong, I am a big fan of MFT (more on the Olympus side with respect to bodies and lenses) but a good picture at 16Mp, 20Mp is still a good picture. As you push the resolution, I fear you're giving up dynamic range, colour accuracy, etc. Sharpening and computational trickery can fool you in a review, but it gets tired in real life. In summary, I like MFT, but am skeptical about how this dense sensor is really going to perform in the wild. The density of this sensor will also stretch the competence of lenses (again, sharpening is likely filling the gap). The density of this sensor will also stretch the competence of lenses (again, sharpening is likely filling the gap).
Hopefully the reviewers answer detailed questions about G9ii image quality after production firmware and mainstream photo editing software is available for the G9ii. I shoot with a 16MP ILC (Panasonic Lumix G85), and my photos perform well in photo competitions at the Richmond Hill Camera Club in Ontario, Canada. Sensor size plays a minor role when creating compelling images. @@pgy8863
I moved to the Nikon Z8 from the Panasonic MFT system right before I heard the rumors that this camera was forthcoming. Seeing the initial reviews, I'm glad I made the switch.
@@jacktingle215 Yes, the lenses are a real advantage, but a small body has its own benefits. Lumix and Olympus both understood this in the past. I suspect the market just isn't large enough anymore.
I chose to go with M43 kit because it was easier to carry on long hikes. I would like to see them keep the body size down, but I understand there is a balance with ergonomics.
I'm curious to see how well the Human / Body detection function works. That is a feature that OM-1 does not seem to have and that I want to capture sports photography when players are wearing helmets and the face is not visible. That would be the clincher for me between the two cameras.
How is the image quality of photos compared to the S5 II, especially at higher ISO? I find my GH6 really muddies up at 2500 ISO or higher for photos, and I worry about that with the G9 II as well.
Thank you for this great review. I'm excited to see the comparison with the OM-1, especially comparing the image quality of both cameras. I'm an Olympus user and landscape photographer and might want to upgrade to the OM-1. Is the G9 perhaps the better alternative?
I am an OM-1 user, and I'm not looking to switch or add cameras at this time. That being said, some minor comments about the G9-II: I have to imagine there will be a GH6 variant in the future to merge the phase detect auto focus support with the fan/back monitor, etc. of the GH6. I do kind of wonder if there ever will be a GH5s upgrade. I would have thought since the body is already made for a fan, to include it, but not make it default. But that may be reserved for the GH6 variant. I could imagine people outdoors machine-gunning stills shots at 60fps might wish for a fan some day. It is nice they went with a full-size HDMI port. How sturdy do the USB/HDMI and Microphone/Headphone rubber covers appear to be? I mean it might not need to be all that sturdy since as I understand it, the weather sealing is not an official rating, so perhaps you would not be tempted to record at Niagara Falls, on amusement park flume rides, or in an hour long rain storm (which I have done). On the G85 after reading the fine print, I came to the conclusion that what Panasonic implied was 'We call this camera splash resistant, but don't get it wet'. With the ability to write to a SSD, Panaonic really needs to add an extra USB port, either so you can power the camera externally without a dummy battery and record to SSD, or record to a pair of SSDs (either for more space or redundancy). Speaking of powering externally, can the G9-II do like the OM-1, and using a USB C-PD connection (either wall wart or power bank) both power the camera and recharge batteries at the same time, or does it just power the camera? Is it like the OM-1, E-m1 mark III, or E-m1x and you need a battery with some charge on it in order to start using USB C-PD. I can imagining running flat out and draining the batteries I brought with me, and then hooking up a power bank as an emergency measure. If my batteries are completely drained, I would have to turn off the camera for some period of time to do an initial re-charge on the batteries before I could power the camera and re-charge the batteries at the same time. You didn't mention in the video, but can the G9-II record more than 30 minutes of 'normal' video (i.e. 4K at 24/30/60fps)? I know that G9 mark I would limit a lot of video to 30 minutes. Back when the G9 came out, I looked at it, but not supporting more than 30 minutes of video was a deal killer for me. Now, the stuff I used to record longer video folded before or during COVID, but I always look for it. I had a friend asking me to record their group this last weekend (70-90 minute show), but I came down with COVID and I had to bow out. I wonder in this day and age, how many people still use the pc-sync port (that was removed)? I assume the viewfinder is OLED (which Panasonic uses on its mid/high end cameras) and not field sequential (used on the GX cameras) or TFT LCD (used on the older Olympus bodies)? I have to wear polarized sunglasses all of the time when I'm outdoors to reduce migraines, and it is nice to know if the camera would work fine if I used polarized sunglasses when recordiing. I do like the built-in strap hangers, unlike the triangles that the OM-1 uses.
@@Wildridefilms Great thanks. While the G9-II is in theory aimed to stills photographers, as is mentioned in the video, a lot of the advanced video stuff is there. However, are there things common in the GH6 in the G9-II that normally are not in stills cameras like wave-forms, external LUTs, setting shutter angle, etc.
I'm wondering if Chris and Jordan have any input to Panasonic on your findings. Does the G9II lock up when the buffer is full and the pictures are writing to the card? Is the write speed to an SSD using the USB-C cable clear images off the buffer faster?
Thanks for the review! It looks like highlights are handled very poorly at 0:32 and 12:00. I'm genuinely surprised to hear Jordan say he prefers this to the excellent performance in the S5ii cameras.
It's a shame, if it had come a few weeks earlier I would most likely have stuck with Panasonic instead of going over to Sony but alas too late now. Jordan did however not even mention video autofocus so I would love to know if it performs as well in video as in photo and how it compares to something like the a6700?
I have to add that video autofocus is why I left. It's been a frustration for me with my GH5 for years. I often need non experienced friends to film for me or I needed to film myself and both scenarios were practically impossible with the GH6 autofocus. The a6700 I bought has so far been fantastic and the autofocus very reliable. But unlike my old GH5 feels fragile in the outdoors. I miss the rugged weather sealing.
@mustafarazakhanable I watched it again. He only mentions it and says its slightly better than the S5II. No examples or any more details. Considering it's the first Panasonic M43 with PD and how many complaints there used to be about autofocus a bit more detail and testing would have been useful.
I have enter this video so excited, and left so disapointed. Were it is the overengenereed high end camera tha was the G9? Is just a S5II with a M43 sensor now :c
Fuji would've put a croped medium format sensor in a body that size. The SII isn't a small ff camera, but a mFT with this size makes me wonder why someone would buy this thing, as mFT was made to be more compact. An A7CII looks even super small next to this G9 II.
Want! Also, is it compatible with the XLR-1 adapter? I think this one checks all the boxes for me. I just need to wait for it to come down in price and show up on the used market.
Panasonic needs a serious super-telephoto offering if they want to compete with the OM1 for wildlife. The 200mm 2.8 isn't long enough. And, the 100-400 is slow and soft at the long end. Could use the Olympus 300 f4 PRO, or the 150-400 PRO on the G9ii, but no sync IS, and likely a few other incompatibilities due to the different systems.
The way Chris' forehead shows blown highlights (at 0:42) plus other parts of the video show that, sadly, DR is still an issue. I used to own a Lumix M43 and loved it but that DR ... unless you can control the lighting (either indoor or outdoor) it's way too easy to blow the highlights.
Very nice camera it seems. I'll for now stick with my OM-1 and OM-5. But I envy the G9-2 video capabilities. It's a bulky camera in my hands, so I hope OM System will release a "video centric" OM-2 with sensor like the G9-2. That would fit my hand and have my loved ergonomics.
I'm still rocking my GH5. The mkII had some neat upgrades that I like, but still missing dual ISO that I want for an upgrade. The GH6 honestly with its only benefits at high ISO, it was too much of a bother to bother for what you get. So its nice to see another m43 upgrade option if your coming from a GH5. But even then, I think I want to go FF...
On paper is great, but Panasonic omitted the top screen so many photographers loved and the screen mechanism of the GH6. It feels to me this camera was limited by the S5 ii design to save costs?
thank you guys. I would really like to see a detailed review on these new lenses, Pana Leica 12-35, 35-100 and 100-400 mark due, I would like to know if the optical performance has improved or is it better to buy used lenses from the previous version.
Agreed! The LCD was very useful. I also liked the placement of the on/off switch on the original G9. Not sure why they felt the need to mess with the G9's ergo since it was widely regarded as one of the best ever.
I guess it's more economical for Panasonic to use the S5 platform. Pitty thought they discontinue the perfect G9 ergonomics. I would go so far to say this is/was (one of) the best camera's I have ever used and still use. I also used it the longest period non-stop@@J.R.Y.
@@edvelfilms So true! While being used by pros and enthousiasts the S5II is a prosumer camera (much as the Nikon Z6/ Z7's) While the (big and bulky) S1 is aimed at the professional. Would have much rather seen an S5/S1that looked like the original G9
@@HeikoBertram Yeah but I wonder why they didn't just get inspired by the G9 for their later cameras. Give the S5 a locking mechanism and the great on/off switch. Sometimes Pana just goes backwards. Kinda like how the GH5 had USB-C and the G9 that came out later had the terrible Micro USB 3.0 thingy.
MFT is my prefered platform, because of the great variety of lenses. Especially smaller lenses for travel. And especially the ridiculously good and light 14-140mm Superzoom. This seems to be the (almost) perfect camera in this system. I want it! Just have to save up some money first.
Great camera. Panasonic delivered on this one, producing one of the most balanced hybrid cameras made. Just like the Fujifilm X-H2S that I purchased. Both of these cameras have a balanced medium resolution along with speed and great video features. I choose the X-H2S over the Sony A1, being a Sony user. I think the X-H2S resolution and speed is better balanced than the A1, just like this Panasonic G9 II. Good work Panasonic! Great review, thanks!
I've been shooting Nikon full frame (D850 and Z6-II), but I got my start with m4/3. I currently have a G9 original, and my biggest gripe (besides the contrast auto focus) was that the focus joystick was limited- couldn't do diagonal directions. Did they fix that with the G9 II? I'm leaning towards a Z8 for my next, but I'm very glad Panasonic hasn't abandoned M4/3
It took too long for me. I was a huge fan of the g9 and was waiting on this. Sold all my stuff and moved to the S5. At that price point, I am not going back. I can pick up an s5II for a comparable price these days. Anyway, great overview as always guys!
Overall a nice review, and I look forward to later reviews with a production version with "final" firmware. I especially will like to see how it handles bird tracking in particular. I'm a loyal Olympus/OM System shooter and love my OM-1, but I have a number of Panasonic Leica lenses and think that all new MFT product releases help promote and strengthen this format, so good on Panasonic! As I said, a great review right up to that last comment about how this is a pretty pricey camera and "you can get into some entry level full frames at this price". True, but can those compete with this GH9 II or the OM-1 in features, capabilities, ruggedness, versatility, and computational photography? I don't think so. To me, this echoes the historic "what you give up to shoot MFT" bias. I think that time has passed and we should rather be asking why would you give up the MFT advantages of smaller size (especially lenses), lower weight, and greatly advance technology just for a supposed IQ advantage that most people will never see? Keep up the good work, and I'm so glad to see you both back doing what you do so well!
@@mustafarazakhanable That is much of my point. I love advancing technology, and I do a lot of pixel peeping because I like clean, sharp images, but even the lowly MFT sensors today produce amazing images and there is so much more to photography than sensors. I have many images only because of the Olympus IBIS - and I'm glad to see Panasonic in this game. Built in ND filters, HDR, focus stacking, focus bracketing, hand held high res shots, the pre-capture (Pro Capture in OM System speak), the live view modes to allow you to "build" an image, AI-based subject tracking, and so on. There is not a sophisticated product in the world which can be judged by just one metric - and yet many still try to do that with sensor size/resolution when it is often a distinction without a difference. I have never had anyone say, "That would have been a great shot if you had only used a full frame camera rather than MFT." I doubt few others have either. 🙂 Just remember that the 35mm film format came about only because someone working for Thomas Edison split 70mm movie film for his Kinetoscope format in 1893, and that for years, 35mm film cameras were called "mini cams" and criticized because many thought the image too small for any important use. AND - this is key - it finally became the dominate camera format because of it's smaller size and lighter weight - not because of it's better image quality. If the relatively small size difference between MFT and FF is such a big deal and you really need that extra resolution/IQ/etc., why stop at FF? Why not go on to medium or large format sensors for some really noticeable improvement you don't need to pixel peep to see? Peace out. 🙂
I have been following M43 for several years in the hope of a more "hybrid" camera. G9ii looks like the right camera for me... This one or OM-1, but I like to shoot video (have recorded some videos with my RX-100), which speaks in favor of G9ii. However, I will wait for your full review, especially regarding image quality at low ISO and any real life overheating problems. Sounds as if overheating should not realistically be a problem, but how long to cool off, if it happens, for example recording at 4K at 30 degrees Celsius? At a carnival, they don't stop the parade for my video recording!... (however, maybe for some cold beers 😆 ).
I got the S5iiX with lens kit tax free and had mine in hand way before everyone else so im very happy with it. Wouldnt mind this G9ii in the future though for wildlife or sports photography.
I have been shooting m4/3 for over 10 years so I am very happy to see that development is continuing from Panasonic as well as OM Systems.
Olympus RIP
So how many systems this OM have?
I came to the exact same conclusion regarding the video features! For "not a video camera" it's ridiculously impressive!
I revisited this video after replacing my OM-1 with a G9 II recently and this camera is simply ridiculous. APS-C levels of image quality with DR boost on. Full frame stacked sensor flagship level burst rates. Stupidly deep buffer. 100 MP HHHR with motion compensation. Industry leading video specifications. High quality selection of ports and card slots. Aside from the size, I really can't fault anything about this camera.
I’m still shooting with a G7 for photos so this would be a serious upgrade!
OK, it's been 5 months since my last comment, and I sold my G9 and bought a G9 II. And I am impressed! Human autofocus and Animal autofocus both work very well.
The shot at 9:40 looks absolutely beautiful. in my opinion the best IBIS ever.
Well spotted. Might have EIS on High as well. Either way, gimbal like footage for sure
I’ve been waiting for Lumix to give the G9 upgrades for photography and video. The features they’ve increased and added makes me happy I held out on the GH6 for this photography based G9II. I have to admit as a GX8, G95, and G9 owner.. I’m extremely happy and can’t wait to receive my G9II..
The original G9 is an extremely underrated camera overshadowed by the hysteria of the GH5 at the time. I use a G9 as a B Cam for my BMPCC 6K PRO and get fantastic results still. Not to mention the photo capabilities when I need it in a pinch. I have no doubt this mk 2 version will be great.
As a daily GH6 user, I've been wanting to add a Photo Body to my arsenal and this looks like it may be it. I can use all my same lenses & not have to invest in an entirely new (to me) system. While also getting a solid second angle video camera. Glad to see Panasonic isn't abandoning M43.
GH6 + GH9II looks to be a solid combo, although I'm thinking a GX9II would of be nicer (from a form factor aspect for street photography and more casual shoots) as there is a LOT of overlap between the two in terms of specs.
@@picospace GX9ii, yes please!
Better ad a OM Systems for that! As G9II and GH6 are so similar.
@@derJackistweg I use my cameras for multi-camera livestreams, so matching colors is a big plus. The G9II being so similar to the GH6 is a positive for me. Really my perfect camera is a GH6 with better Auto-Focus and photo capability. At least my "realistic perfect camera that fits my work & budget".
@@MandicReally right.
Actually I can comprehend the low dynamic range that was mentioned here from my fotos as well.
I was quite supriced by that and I expected to be in the same or better rage than a A6000 that I owned some years ago.
I own a Panasonic G9 and I love it especially after the firmware updates. It really is a nice hybrid camera for light work. I can't wait to get my hands on this new G9 body.
Still in my first year with M43 (OMS), and I'm enjoying it a great deal. Sensors continue to improve, computational photography and modern software seem to be making great strides as well, and the IBIS on my camera continues to amaze. I'd expect - about 18 months after the release of OM-1 - that this camera would leapfrog its competition and this seems to be what has happened. And when OMS updates/upgrades its flagship camera, the same thing _ought_ to occur, which is great for the consumer. I know of some people who are declaring M43 dead, but it seems that Panasonic and OMS disagree.
M43 has been dead for 14 years now, yet its still around, the media wants it to be dead, but the consumer side seems to do quite well.
OM-1 is fantastic photography camera, but absolutely garbage for video, its worse in so many ways to a GH4, but thats okay, in my opinion, there TOO MUCH video these days, sometimes, I just want a camera, that does ONE thing.
Chris/Jordan...your reviews are fantastic, indepth, and entertaining. Great work...
Very nice to see some life being breathed back into this format at Panasonic! Sad that we won't get a David Thorpe video on it 😥
Do you think he would like it?
@@andreatilli6227 I think he'd love it. As a photojournalist it's the type of seriously capable camera that he'd appreciate, even if he did roll his eyes a bit at the unnecessary video claptrap. But he did like the G9, and funnily enough, he said in his video, "if Panasonic were able to swallow their pride and put some phase detection points on the sensor, I don't see any how anyone could compete with it." How's that for foreshadowing? 😉 And that was 5 years ago!
th-cam.com/video/EjYeF_PpoAw/w-d-xo.htmlsi=psIS-_1I-bHUGJXY
+1
Indeed!
Definitely.
Very good to see you guys are still with us and, as a G9 user, I'm very encouraged to see Lumix invest in a G9 M2. I think the price point is just fine and I've been waiting for this Mark 2 to come along before investing in a second camera body. Time to empty out the ole' change jar.
What's with the forehead burn in the first few shots? Q: Did you not have a G9 to compare it to? Does V-Log come standard? Thanks again, gents.
So happy to see another MFT release! It’s such a great system.
So much to love with the new G9II. One area I really hope they have improved is the sensitivity of the front shutter button. I've taken so many shots unintentionally with my G9 as I'm primarily a front button shooter where I half press the shutter button but end up taking the photo instead of just focusing. New 25mp sensor is a really welcome addition and the 100mp hand held hi res mode. Lovely jubbly.
Same here! I hope they corrected the front shutter button. It is way too sensitive on G9!
I saw another review where he said the button is improved and does not have that hair trigger.
Hugh Brownstone (3 Blind Men and an Elephant), specifically mentions that the G9II corrects that very issue.
This makes me feel relieved about my decision to stick with Lumix cameras and the M43 ecosystem. I sure wish Panasonic had of integrated phase detect sooner but I can't really complain anymore because it's finally here. Think it's time for a G9-II pre-order!
This is looking like an excellent upgrade for my G9 and G95 when the early adopter price falls a bit. As usual, Panasonic did an excellent job. I'm happy to hear that the photographic dynamic range is competitive and that the video features held. I actually don't care that they dropped the top LCD panel and I rarely used the mode dial lock (but it still seems like a strange omission). I'll need to take a look at the size/weight comparison but this may end up replacing my G95 and relegating my OG G9 to backup status for weddings and events.
Just imagine how much better it will get with firmware updates.
@@VoidShepherd agreed, the original G9 has aged like fine wine. I typically use my GX85 or G95 for most casual shooting due to size and weight. When I do turn to the G9, I'm always impressed by its performance. The G9 II is one more level up and I'll be interested to see if Panasonic is willing to add more computational photography features. AI noise reduction (think DxO DeepPRIME) is already very efficient on modern x86 processors, something like this should work with a multicore ARM processor in a modern M4/3 body. It would be nice to have an inbody AI NR option for when I need to send a JPEG from the camera to my phone for social media posting.
@glsracer It should be interesting to see Indeed. I have been holding out for this camera and I am glad I did.
What are your favorite lenses for the cameras?
@@ScrattleGG for the G9 I like the PL 10-25 f/1.7 and the Oly 40-150 f/2.8. I also use it with the PL 12-60 f/2.8-4 sometimes. Edit: oh I forgot the Sigma 30 and 56 f/1.4
M43 has become my preferred platform, but I went with a used Olympus E-M1X for under $800.
Panasonic is absolutely killing the camera game the past year. I bought an s5II because I said I would always try one if they did phase detect AF, I sold everything and bought a second one and moved platforms. It is the best camera I ever owned hands down, I came from an a73 platform, but I did use a z6 II for a while, and the Lumix platform is amazing and having all the native sigma glass allows you to build out your lenses without buying all first party for lesser used lenses without any drawbacks. My daughter is on the m4/3 platform, this looks like a homerun.
I unfortunately had to sell my only camera, the G9, because of rising cost of living. Loved that camera - hope to be able to afford the G9 II in a few years!
Thanks Chris and Jordan. The best news is that it's such a good hybrid that Jordan is filming with it already, it feels like the spiritual successor to the original GH5, despite smartphone competition.
The best first look/preview/review of the G9 Il on TH-cam! Thank you guys👍🏻 you are the best!
I thought about getting away from Panasonic/M43, concentrating on the Nikon Z cameras. I still use a G9 as a 'webcam' camera. The GH6 drew me back in, and the G9II seems incredibly capable. The single most compelling feature is the full-sensor video [open gate] which allows a 4k vertical export. It also helps that the sensor is slightly closer to square than any full frame sensors, 1.33 vs 1.5 aspect ratio. For social media output, with a mix of horizontal and vertical formats, this is very compelling.
Your first image was taken with one of the best M43 lenses, the Panasonic/Leica 42.5mm f/1.2.
Honestly I own the Z6, but I bring out my EM1II and GM1 a lot more out because of the utility and small size. My Z6 only exists to quell my "what if I actually need it" anxiety lol. I actually owned the G9, best body out there but sold off because I needed the PDAF reliability. Seeing the G9 II address my concern is awesome because i'm still not a fan of shooting my EM1II for just everyday needs.
I didn't bite when the GH6 came out (kept my GH4!), because I wanted PDAF. This looks like a hit! I can see Jordan using it as a primary camera for video reviews.
This camera looks to be an amazing hybrid machine! I really love the IQ from the GH6 so hearing that the G9ii has better dynamic range is super impressive. The GH6 is amazing but I just don't use the higher video settings and find that the body is a bit big for m43. This new camera might be a huge winner for this system. Thank you Chris and Jordan!!❤️❤️❤️
Very much want to upgrade for my wildlife photos. Just might wait for price to drop some. Kinda wild being priced just under 2k. I think it will drop rather quick price wise.
Something that i would like to hear more of: cost of lenses. huge advantage for m43. that in of itself is a reason to stay loyal to m43
Personally I think the days of m43 being a budget option are over. It's actually cheaper to make full frame lenses than m43 lenses (a 50mm f/1.8 full frame lens is easier to engineer than an "equivalent" 25mm f/0.9 m43 lens for example). It used to be that sensor costs were a big advantage of m43, but this is no longer as significant.
Good Review Gents. Glad to see Panasonic moving forward with M43. I realized last month the only unique thing in my top of the range Panasonic/Olympus lens collection was the 100-400 telephoto. Everything else I preferred to shot on my FF Sony gear. So I traded in the entire collection including a G9 for a 200-600. The M43 tele was so small compared to the Sony but not worth carrying two systems. Good luck Panasonic, wish you weren’t so stubborn for so long on your autofocus.
just wanted to say the video quality and color of this video are just beautiful. nice work guys.
I literally just got a wicked priced used g9 which I'll be using for years to come. Nice to know that a great upgrade will be waiting for me!
I just got my G9II and it feels like the true successor to the GH5 as far as being a hybrid mirrorless. I also own the GH6 but as Jordan mentioned it leans much more towards video. Having both is a match made in heaven, at least until the GH7 arrives.
I love my G9 and wonder if the G9II retains the niche but very useful functions like macro focus stacking or focus bracketing. I don't care about in-camera stack processing, but with the improved stabilization I'd love to see if the G9II is an even more capable macro camera. The OM1's focus bracketing has had me considering that body.
Thanks for the review, guys! I don't think I'll be too quick in upgrading from my G9, which I love. I don't see the upgrades making it worth the price, and I think I would miss the top screen too much.
I was waiting for someone to say this. A side by side comparison is needed to see the real world differences. At this point, I think it is mainly video (especially with recording limit on the first model) and possibly the dynamic range that most people would find useful.
Yeah, surprised Chris didn't mention the subtraction of the top screen. I haven't thought much about it til now, but I think I've really got used to it being there.
I am VERY impressed with the G9 II. I own a G9, and I plan to get a G9 II as soon as it is in stock.
I went from full frame back to G9 M4/3 without any regrets. So many features in a compact body especially with a lens attached.
May i ask what were your reasons to go back?
Yeah, MFt is a great option if you want overpriced gear and terrible image quality. :D
@@youknowwho9247 People like you are so full of it. Sensor size in correct conditions does not matter in the slightest. Yes full frame sensors have better dynamic range and low light for the most part, but in most cases, it doesn't matter. Stop with this childish elitism.
@@D3AL1O That's just utter rubbish. Full frame provides more creative control over depth of field, cleaner and higher resolution images and higher dynamic range - in ALL shooting conditions. Anyone who claims anything else simply doesn't know what they're talking about. There are very good reason for why virtually no reputable, professional wedding photographer shoots MFT and why 95+% of all pros in any genre shoot full frame or larger sensors. The remaining 5% are paid brand ambassadors and viral marketing type influencers. There's absolutely no reason to pick MFT over full frame for stills. Full frame offers higher quality at better cost efficiency. It's an absolute no brainer.
@@youknowwho9247I went from an A7iii to a G9 with no regrets whatsover. For pros FF or Medium Format can absolutely be justified. Most of us are not pros and MFT cameras are much easier to fit photography around every day life events. My Sony gear more often didn't come with me as too bulky and ended up using my phone. Yes a G9 and A7 are similar sized bodies but the lenses are much smaller especially the zooms. The IBIS is way better on MFT so while High ISO performance is nowhere near as good I rarely go above 3200 as I can shoot at much slower shutter speeds. Waterfall shots with 1 sec exposure handheld no problem. Use same tiny primes as G9 on body I can fit in my jeans pocket, no problem. Shallow DoF is not always desirable. I shoot a lot of macro. MFT is way better for that especially if you don't want to image stack. The best camera is one you have with you. The best images are made from subject, light, composition and making the viewer feel something not from sharpness, dynamic range or bokeh. If FF is best for you that's great but it won't be best for everyone and their choice is as valid as yours.
I appreciate your initial review. It's great to see you and Jordan continuing over here. I'd love to see a comparison of this camera with the OM-1. It's my current camera. I wonder if they'll add to the computation features with firmware updates. Considering what they did with firmware updates with the original G9, I think it's possible. Let us know how the ergonomics work and if it's set up as well for quick, on-the-fly photography like the OM-1 is. Having all the computational features don't do much good if you have to dig through menus each time you want to use them. Since live ND is really just sophisticated computation to get a similar effect to conventional ND filters, this would seem to be something Panasonic could add. I have to wonder if this had been around a year ago when I got the OM-1, which I would have gone with. Oh, one last thing, when not using the monochrome color profile you seemed to really like, was the standard profile as natural as, well, the natural one on the OM-1? I find myself going between natural and vivid, not really sure which I like best. I like the way the camera handles jpeg rendering so much that I am more likely to use them than processing raws, unless dynamic range is an issue I need to try to work out for a shot. I appreciate your reading this if you do. Great work guys. I can't wait to see the full review!
I don't think I'll ever shoot m43 but im really happy to see they are still being developed and improved.
put a m43 sensor in a ff body is not a proper improvement in my opinion 😅
@@kevc.2958exactly. they are wasting resources for the landfill.
@@kevc.2958 It's about the lenses. Small size and weigth with good ergonomics
@@kevc.2958try shrink down ff lenses
@@kevc.2958I went to M43 because of the small size factor, so this is a no go. For now I'll stick to GM and Pen series.
$1900?
This looks like a marvelous body. Look at the price. YIKES! As suggested below, I’ll wait for a sale. I see a Panasonic G9 ii in my future. Maybe two years in the future.
Leica monochrome. What is that about? I LOVE Panasonic’s L Monochrome D. How are the two different?
Looking forward to the phase detection being brought to the GX9 Mii. When you do this Panasonic Please, Please, Please include an audio in jack.
It's nice to see Panasonic still caring for the m43 crowd. Not swapping my OM-1 for this though - once you use a stacked sensor, there's no going back.
I agree. It's hard to give up the improved low-light performance and high ISO handling of the BSI sensor as well. It's not full frame, but it's far ahead of my previous Panasonic M43. I realized the 20MP limitation might be a drawback, but there's gain-loss consideration to everything. The readout speed wouldn't be as high if it were higher MP, and I'm rather curious to see how it handles dynamic range, after the seemingly same sensor used on the GH6 had issues there. Dual output gain might help, but will it be enough? It didn't seem to improve the photo quality of the GH6. Perhaps Panasonic has taken more time to iron out the issues with this model. The stacked BSI sensor really is a major improvement. I find that 20MP is a good compromise for this, where as 10 years ago we thought of 20MP as high res anyway. People were managing to print poster-sized prints, even billboards, with 8MP back in the day. So it's a nice-to-have, but not a must-have feature. It's mostly good for editing in post if you need to re-frame and crop in. However, I've cropped in 30-40% on photos taken with the OM-1 and had prints that looked very nice. It doesn't give you quite the leeway of higher MP cameras, but as I said, compromises exist for a reason. All that typing just to say, I agree with you on keeping the OM-1. I still have my old Panny, too. I really miss the ergonomics. It seemed to be a little easier to use on the fly. But I'm getting used to the OM-1 after a year.
@@jonathanscherer8567 One more thing I'd like to add - probably if I was more into filming than stills, I'd go with the G9ii. All in all, it's a good thing for the system that those two cameras target slightly different niches.
Do you have a G9, and if so, do you find the OM1 image quality significantly better?
@@raksh9 I don't, but I'd bet the quality difference won't be too huge. Stacked sensor's advantage is mostly speed and near lack of rolling shutter.
Jordan, I moved from Lumix G85 to Oly EM1.3 due to overall body quality. I mostly have Lumix lenses and wonder if I should consider moving back to the G9 II? Your input is appreciated.
Same here
Would like to see a full comparison with the G9 both in hand. Will people miss the top LCD screen? Most people like the original G9 for its body and handling, and the top LCD.
I just love the color reproduction from the Panasonic system.
Finally! I was hoping so much for this camera to come out and i am not disappointed. Heres hoping that they get to sell a lot of them and we can get even more cool lenses and a "lite" version, like a newer g91!
Damn this seems like the complete package. And if I remember correctly Panasonic Hi-Res mode is much better at handling moving subjects than the OM1. So you can actually have full frame quality on landscapes. Impressive
As a G9 owner this made me very happy. Need to check this one out one day
Looks like everything I was hoping for in the GH6. I'll never need RAW or ProRes recording, but would like to play with Live View Composite, handheld hires, and Real Time LUTS.
Was about to get the SXII in a few weeks. But Ill go with the G9II. I can use the lenses I have without having to change the entire eco system
Why would you get this over the s5 ii? S5 ii costs less and has a bigger sensor
@@MM-vc6milenses, he says so!
@@MM-vc6mibecause he said he doesn't want to change eco?...
@@MM-vc6mi because I have a whole line of m43 lenses already Including leica. Switching over would have me spend even more money on lenses and selling old gear and lenses isn't quite easy these days.
The long-exposure light-streak shot blew my mind! That's amazing! Seeing the composite shot essentially develop before your eyes is so cool.
I'm glad to see Panasonic add this capability, but Olympus/OM System has had it for years.
Great review, Chris and Jordan, two of the best.
I'll never be able to afford, nor will ever buy this camera. But I sure do like watching these two guys do their thing, always informative and entertaining.
You guys are so good at what you do.
Doubt it will happen but I hope DR boost can re-implemented in the GH6 with the G9ii system. I don’t want to replace my GH6 body for a “photo” camera to upgrade a video feature
great review - don't know how i missed it. i've been shooting M4/3 since the GF1 came out, and i'm super happy to see panasonic is continuing to support it - and with such great upgrades!
The image quality looks great. This camera has really closed the gap with FF. Colours are beautiful and the additional dynamic range (esp vs the G9) is evident.
I only wish it had the GH6’s screen with the tilt up / down angle option.
I was waiting to see how this would turn out before buying the OM1, and I am glad I did. This will be an awesome upgrade from my Em1 II\G85
Great video. I have stuck with the older M1 Mark II. But I have spent some time with the G9, GH5II, XT4, and Z6II looking for a hybrid camera. Loved the ergonomics and video options on the GH5II. Somewhat interested in this G9II.
Thank you Chris and Jordan! This might actually be the camera that gets me back into the MFT ecosystem again. I've been holding on to my lenses for dear life waiting for the right body to turn up. I would love to learn more about its performance (especially for video) at 4000-6400 ISO though. That is my upper limit for video work and if this can deliver the goods, this is definitely my next camera :)
I shoot with a GH5 and an S1. I am so glad to have both systems. I will definitely be upgrading my gh5 to a G9II. I have shot with Canon, Nikon as well as Olympus, but Panasonic is by far my favorite system. Thank you Panasonic for continuing to deliver great products. The Leica branded lenses combined with the Panasonic cameras produce truly wonderful images. Thanks Chris and Jordan for the review. I have been watching you guys since you started. This camera looks fantastic! I can't wait for a new flagship full frame from Panasonic. The future looks great for camera users.
I'm thinking of changing from the OM Systems OM1 to this camera, I do have a GH5 mk2 for video. I have been using Olympus since 2016 starting with the E-M5II.
It is a great camera but it is too big. I am hoping for a GX9 II.
Heck yeah! Or even better: A GM5 II with a bigger EVF 🤤😅
A GX9 with a proper EVF and better battery life would be great news to me
I’m SO happy for PDAF on M43!
Incredibly happy for this. I love my G9 and frankly I can get another 5+ years from my m43 lens collection
Beautiful sample photos. Very capable camera. Awesome review.
Wow that is a great endorsement from Jordan concerning the video capabilities. So happy Panasonic did this.
Man I still love my G9, already have a nice MFT lens selection and often prefer it for wildlife over my A7R3. This looks like a great upgrade especially for video.
Great review as always!
Thanks for your excellent early review of the Panasonic G9 ii using pre-production firmware! I am convinced that the G9 ii is an awesome upgrade from the original Panasonic G9 in nearly all respects. However, with the new 25.2 MP dual-gain sensor on the G9 ii, I hope you might publish information about how the G9 ii image quality (with final production firmware) compares with the OM-1 and the original Panasonic G9 - across all ISO settings. I look forward to upgrading my Panasonic G85. Keep publishing your great videos; they are truly helpful !
25Mp in MFT is 100Mp in FF in terms of pixel density. I don't think anyone has done that. And in FF they do some chip magic to achieve this. Even 20Mp in MFT is ambitious. Don't get me wrong, I am a big fan of MFT (more on the Olympus side with respect to bodies and lenses) but a good picture at 16Mp, 20Mp is still a good picture. As you push the resolution, I fear you're giving up dynamic range, colour accuracy, etc. Sharpening and computational trickery can fool you in a review, but it gets tired in real life. In summary, I like MFT, but am skeptical about how this dense sensor is really going to perform in the wild. The density of this sensor will also stretch the competence of lenses (again, sharpening is likely filling the gap). The density of this sensor will also stretch the competence of lenses (again, sharpening is likely filling the gap).
Hopefully the reviewers answer detailed questions about G9ii image quality after production firmware and mainstream photo editing software is available for the G9ii. I shoot with a 16MP ILC (Panasonic Lumix G85), and my photos perform well in photo competitions at the Richmond Hill Camera Club in Ontario, Canada. Sensor size plays a minor role when creating compelling images. @@pgy8863
Great video, thanks. What's the unit of weight you reference at 4:53? A third of a what?
I moved to the Nikon Z8 from the Panasonic MFT system right before I heard the rumors that this camera was forthcoming. Seeing the initial reviews, I'm glad I made the switch.
I'd love to see them release some smaller bodies... G9x ii or something similar. This body is full-frame size.
Remember, the biggest savings in MFT is long lens size. Bodies scale to hands & eyeballs.
I agree for street the smaller body and flip up screen with this auto focus and weather sealing would be sweet.
@@jacktingle215 Yes, the lenses are a real advantage, but a small body has its own benefits. Lumix and Olympus both understood this in the past. I suspect the market just isn't large enough anymore.
@@petegleeson1 I don't understand why they don't make something like that and take a bite out of the x100v market.
I chose to go with M43 kit because it was easier to carry on long hikes. I would like to see them keep the body size down, but I understand there is a balance with ergonomics.
I'm curious to see how well the Human / Body detection function works. That is a feature that OM-1 does not seem to have and that I want to capture sports photography when players are wearing helmets and the face is not visible. That would be the clincher for me between the two cameras.
Buy a sony
How is the image quality of photos compared to the S5 II, especially at higher ISO? I find my GH6 really muddies up at 2500 ISO or higher for photos, and I worry about that with the G9 II as well.
Thank you for this great review. I'm excited to see the comparison with the OM-1, especially comparing the image quality of both cameras. I'm an Olympus user and landscape photographer and might want to upgrade to the OM-1. Is the G9 perhaps the better alternative?
Nice reveiw, sounds like the g9 upgrade I have been waiting for. Thanks.
I am an OM-1 user, and I'm not looking to switch or add cameras at this time. That being said, some minor comments about the G9-II:
I have to imagine there will be a GH6 variant in the future to merge the phase detect auto focus support with the fan/back monitor, etc. of the GH6. I do kind of wonder if there ever will be a GH5s upgrade.
I would have thought since the body is already made for a fan, to include it, but not make it default. But that may be reserved for the GH6 variant. I could imagine people outdoors machine-gunning stills shots at 60fps might wish for a fan some day.
It is nice they went with a full-size HDMI port.
How sturdy do the USB/HDMI and Microphone/Headphone rubber covers appear to be? I mean it might not need to be all that sturdy since as I understand it, the weather sealing is not an official rating, so perhaps you would not be tempted to record at Niagara Falls, on amusement park flume rides, or in an hour long rain storm (which I have done). On the G85 after reading the fine print, I came to the conclusion that what Panasonic implied was 'We call this camera splash resistant, but don't get it wet'.
With the ability to write to a SSD, Panaonic really needs to add an extra USB port, either so you can power the camera externally without a dummy battery and record to SSD, or record to a pair of SSDs (either for more space or redundancy).
Speaking of powering externally, can the G9-II do like the OM-1, and using a USB C-PD connection (either wall wart or power bank) both power the camera and recharge batteries at the same time, or does it just power the camera? Is it like the OM-1, E-m1 mark III, or E-m1x and you need a battery with some charge on it in order to start using USB C-PD. I can imagining running flat out and draining the batteries I brought with me, and then hooking up a power bank as an emergency measure. If my batteries are completely drained, I would have to turn off the camera for some period of time to do an initial re-charge on the batteries before I could power the camera and re-charge the batteries at the same time.
You didn't mention in the video, but can the G9-II record more than 30 minutes of 'normal' video (i.e. 4K at 24/30/60fps)? I know that G9 mark I would limit a lot of video to 30 minutes. Back when the G9 came out, I looked at it, but not supporting more than 30 minutes of video was a deal killer for me. Now, the stuff I used to record longer video folded before or during COVID, but I always look for it. I had a friend asking me to record their group this last weekend (70-90 minute show), but I came down with COVID and I had to bow out.
I wonder in this day and age, how many people still use the pc-sync port (that was removed)?
I assume the viewfinder is OLED (which Panasonic uses on its mid/high end cameras) and not field sequential (used on the GX cameras) or TFT LCD (used on the older Olympus bodies)? I have to wear polarized sunglasses all of the time when I'm outdoors to reduce migraines, and it is nice to know if the camera would work fine if I used polarized sunglasses when recordiing.
I do like the built-in strap hangers, unlike the triangles that the OM-1 uses.
Yes, it does support USB PD charging and it does charge the batteries as well as power the camera. There is no recording time limit. The EVF is OLED
@@Wildridefilms Great thanks.
While the G9-II is in theory aimed to stills photographers, as is mentioned in the video, a lot of the advanced video stuff is there. However, are there things common in the GH6 in the G9-II that normally are not in stills cameras like wave-forms, external LUTs, setting shutter angle, etc.
I'm wondering if Chris and Jordan have any input to Panasonic on your findings. Does the G9II lock up when the buffer is full and the pictures are writing to the card? Is the write speed to an SSD using the USB-C cable clear images off the buffer faster?
The highlight roll off and colors on the skin near the highlights look horrible. Was it just overexposed? 0:45, 0:53
The Camera Guys! Nice to see you, buddies!
Thanks for the review! It looks like highlights are handled very poorly at 0:32 and 12:00. I'm genuinely surprised to hear Jordan say he prefers this to the excellent performance in the S5ii cameras.
Yeah, I am curious what settings they used, especially at 12:00. Seems like the dynamic range there is very poor
It's a shame, if it had come a few weeks earlier I would most likely have stuck with Panasonic instead of going over to Sony but alas too late now. Jordan did however not even mention video autofocus so I would love to know if it performs as well in video as in photo and how it compares to something like the a6700?
I have to add that video autofocus is why I left. It's been a frustration for me with my GH5 for years. I often need non experienced friends to film for me or I needed to film myself and both scenarios were practically impossible with the GH6 autofocus. The a6700 I bought has so far been fantastic and the autofocus very reliable. But unlike my old GH5 feels fragile in the outdoors. I miss the rugged weather sealing.
You missed the video autofocussing tracking part, I think!
@@mustafarazakhanable I must have if it was there, I'll watch again.
@mustafarazakhanable I watched it again. He only mentions it and says its slightly better than the S5II. No examples or any more details. Considering it's the first Panasonic M43 with PD and how many complaints there used to be about autofocus a bit more detail and testing would have been useful.
I am very pleased with your review and Panasonic's camera.
I have enter this video so excited, and left so disapointed. Were it is the overengenereed high end camera tha was the G9? Is just a S5II with a M43 sensor now :c
Fuji would've put a croped medium format sensor in a body that size. The SII isn't a small ff camera, but a mFT with this size makes me wonder why someone would buy this thing, as mFT was made to be more compact. An A7CII looks even super small next to this G9 II.
Want! Also, is it compatible with the XLR-1 adapter?
I think this one checks all the boxes for me. I just need to wait for it to come down in price and show up on the used market.
always great videos, very entertaining and informative. Highlights were a little bright a few times, especially in the "studio"
Panasonic needs a serious super-telephoto offering if they want to compete with the OM1 for wildlife. The 200mm 2.8 isn't long enough. And, the 100-400 is slow and soft at the long end. Could use the Olympus 300 f4 PRO, or the 150-400 PRO on the G9ii, but no sync IS, and likely a few other incompatibilities due to the different systems.
The way Chris' forehead shows blown highlights (at 0:42) plus other parts of the video show that, sadly, DR is still an issue.
I used to own a Lumix M43 and loved it but that DR ... unless you can control the lighting (either indoor or outdoor) it's way too easy to blow the highlights.
Very nice camera it seems. I'll for now stick with my OM-1 and OM-5. But I envy the G9-2 video capabilities. It's a bulky camera in my hands, so I hope OM System will release a "video centric" OM-2 with sensor like the G9-2. That would fit my hand and have my loved ergonomics.
I'm still rocking my GH5. The mkII had some neat upgrades that I like, but still missing dual ISO that I want for an upgrade. The GH6 honestly with its only benefits at high ISO, it was too much of a bother to bother for what you get. So its nice to see another m43 upgrade option if your coming from a GH5. But even then, I think I want to go FF...
On paper is great, but Panasonic omitted the top screen so many photographers loved and the screen mechanism of the GH6. It feels to me this camera was limited by the S5 ii design to save costs?
I am a still shooter and I love the top screen on my Nikon Z cameras. However, I never use it. I just think it looks cool. 😂
Also evf downgraded compared to the G9 I
thank you guys. I would really like to see a detailed review on these new lenses, Pana Leica 12-35, 35-100 and 100-400 mark due, I would like to know if the optical performance has improved or is it better to buy used lenses from the previous version.
Nice to see a new G9! My current camera is getting kind of old. But pity to not see the same locking dials and where has the top display gone...? :(
Agreed! The LCD was very useful. I also liked the placement of the on/off switch on the original G9. Not sure why they felt the need to mess with the G9's ergo since it was widely regarded as one of the best ever.
They reused the empty S5II bodies they had in the basement hahaha
I guess it's more economical for Panasonic to use the S5 platform. Pitty thought they discontinue the perfect G9 ergonomics. I would go so far to say this is/was (one of) the best camera's I have ever used and still use. I also used it the longest period non-stop@@J.R.Y.
@@edvelfilms So true! While being used by pros and enthousiasts the S5II is a prosumer camera (much as the Nikon Z6/ Z7's) While the (big and bulky) S1 is aimed at the professional. Would have much rather seen an S5/S1that looked like the original G9
@@HeikoBertram Yeah but I wonder why they didn't just get inspired by the G9 for their later cameras. Give the S5 a locking mechanism and the great on/off switch. Sometimes Pana just goes backwards. Kinda like how the GH5 had USB-C and the G9 that came out later had the terrible Micro USB 3.0 thingy.
MFT is my prefered platform, because of the great variety of lenses.
Especially smaller lenses for travel. And especially the ridiculously good and light 14-140mm Superzoom.
This seems to be the (almost) perfect camera in this system. I want it! Just have to save up some money first.
Great camera. Panasonic delivered on this one, producing one of the most balanced hybrid cameras made. Just like the Fujifilm X-H2S that I purchased. Both of these cameras have a balanced medium resolution along with speed and great video features.
I choose the X-H2S over the Sony A1, being a Sony user. I think the X-H2S resolution and speed is better balanced than the A1, just like this Panasonic G9 II. Good work Panasonic!
Great review, thanks!
I've been shooting Nikon full frame (D850 and Z6-II), but I got my start with m4/3. I currently have a G9 original, and my biggest gripe (besides the contrast auto focus) was that the focus joystick was limited- couldn't do diagonal directions. Did they fix that with the G9 II?
I'm leaning towards a Z8 for my next, but I'm very glad Panasonic hasn't abandoned M4/3
Look like it is fixed with upgraded 8-way joystick
It took too long for me. I was a huge fan of the g9 and was waiting on this. Sold all my stuff and moved to the S5. At that price point, I am not going back. I can pick up an s5II for a comparable price these days. Anyway, great overview as always guys!
Overall a nice review, and I look forward to later reviews with a production version with "final" firmware. I especially will like to see how it handles bird tracking in particular. I'm a loyal Olympus/OM System shooter and love my OM-1, but I have a number of Panasonic Leica lenses and think that all new MFT product releases help promote and strengthen this format, so good on Panasonic!
As I said, a great review right up to that last comment about how this is a pretty pricey camera and "you can get into some entry level full frames at this price". True, but can those compete with this GH9 II or the OM-1 in features, capabilities, ruggedness, versatility, and computational photography? I don't think so. To me, this echoes the historic "what you give up to shoot MFT" bias. I think that time has passed and we should rather be asking why would you give up the MFT advantages of smaller size (especially lenses), lower weight, and greatly advance technology just for a supposed IQ advantage that most people will never see?
Keep up the good work, and I'm so glad to see you both back doing what you do so well!
Good comment. Show people two pictures or videos from MFT and FF and ask if they see if a difference and that one is taken with a smaller sensor...?!
@@mustafarazakhanable That is much of my point. I love advancing technology, and I do a lot of pixel peeping because I like clean, sharp images, but even the lowly MFT sensors today produce amazing images and there is so much more to photography than sensors. I have many images only because of the Olympus IBIS - and I'm glad to see Panasonic in this game. Built in ND filters, HDR, focus stacking, focus bracketing, hand held high res shots, the pre-capture (Pro Capture in OM System speak), the live view modes to allow you to "build" an image, AI-based subject tracking, and so on. There is not a sophisticated product in the world which can be judged by just one metric - and yet many still try to do that with sensor size/resolution when it is often a distinction without a difference. I have never had anyone say, "That would have been a great shot if you had only used a full frame camera rather than MFT." I doubt few others have either. 🙂
Just remember that the 35mm film format came about only because someone working for Thomas Edison split 70mm movie film for his Kinetoscope format in 1893, and that for years, 35mm film cameras were called "mini cams" and criticized because many thought the image too small for any important use. AND - this is key - it finally became the dominate camera format because of it's smaller size and lighter weight - not because of it's better image quality.
If the relatively small size difference between MFT and FF is such a big deal and you really need that extra resolution/IQ/etc., why stop at FF? Why not go on to medium or large format sensors for some really noticeable improvement you don't need to pixel peep to see? Peace out. 🙂
@@gregfeeler6910 Great points. You should write this as an article!
I have been following M43 for several years in the hope of a more "hybrid" camera. G9ii looks like the right camera for me... This one or OM-1, but I like to shoot video (have recorded some videos with my RX-100), which speaks in favor of G9ii. However, I will wait for your full review, especially regarding image quality at low ISO and any real life overheating problems. Sounds as if overheating should not realistically be a problem, but how long to cool off, if it happens, for example recording at 4K at 30 degrees Celsius? At a carnival, they don't stop the parade for my video recording!... (however, maybe for some cold beers 😆 ).
The G9II is excellent, even the 20mm f1.7II works great with this camera.
Love the presentation, Chris. You convinced me. I'm going to buy the body (have lenses) before our upcoming trip to Thailand. Cheers, Jerry
I got the S5iiX with lens kit tax free and had mine in hand way before everyone else so im very happy with it. Wouldnt mind this G9ii in the future though for wildlife or sports photography.