I'm even later than you and just got mine - I love this camera! The super sharp photos, 4k video quality and IBIS has really given this camera some legs. I think it's fantastic as a first camera for travelling and every day use.
Hey, @d30gaijin and @rikimarizard! I'm thinking of buying it because of the videos of Theo Crawford, i love the warm colors and the look of the image and would like to learn to snap photos like his. Also I'm a beginner and i think for the proce this is the best camera to start with, I've heard also that it is easy to use, which is a good thing. The easier something is to use, the more frequently we resort to it. Can you share with me settings that you use for yours and so far how's your imoression of the cam?
not enough reviews are mentioning the easter egg feature of this camera... the first m43 to feature USB charging. a great advantage for a travel friendly camera to have.
Man, all these Panasonic models look so fantastic--there's something to love in the G7, GX8, and now the GX80--but I really hope we see the GH5 4k 60p and improved low light at Photokina this year.
I always look forward to your reviews every week. I just wish the weeks would pass quicker. You guys are arguably one of the best camera reviews channel on TH-cam. Sending love from London.
Great review guys! Sold my 5D3 and picked up the GX85 with the new 12-60mm lens, along with a speedbooster for my Canon glass - I'm LOVING this camera!! I always ran dual-system sound with the 5D3 anyways, because I couldn't interview people and always be near the camera at the same time... and for vloggers, the audio's not much different than what you'd find on other point-and-shoots like a G7X at arms length. Just be sure to put a Micro Windjammer over the mics to cut down on the wind noise. Mic inputs and a headphone jack would have been nice... but truthfully, being able to film handheld with a 50mm prime using the internal IBIS, and an affordable Lens Turbo focal reducer with an extra stop of light is mind-blowing at this price point. The bokeh is unreal, and the crispy 4K video is putting Canon DSLR's in this price range to shame :)
i'm with you on this. I wasn't even planning on a new camera this year but this camera checks almost all the boxes. mic input would have been nice but not a deal breaker.
Jordan, you said 3 axis IBIS- it's 5 axis WITHOUT IS in the lens. It's 5 axis IBIS plus 2 more WITH IS in the lens. You guys are attacking the no mic input, but it's a detail if you'd normally sync in post anyway. Also, you didn't mention that this is the FIRST MTF 4k shooter with interchangeable lenses to have 5 axis 4k. Finally, no mention of NO OVERHEATING and NO MAX RECORDING TIME LIMIT. Sorry to criticise, but I think you missed the boat on this one.
Good call on the no overheating and no max recording. I've had zero issues with that, and the camera has performed flawlessly on a couple of shoots I had this past week. After using that 5-axis stabilization, I'm not sure I can go back to a camera without that feature. It's so clutch for getting steady handheld footage.
The weight is magnets. 5 axis ibis requires several magnets, the solenoids have magnets. Magnets are generally heavy. It's also necessary for the camera to be heavy for the stabilizer to work. If the camera is too light then the camera can move instead of the sensor. I also don't agree with it being for stills. I think most serious videographers and even a lot of vloggers are going to use an external audio anyway, so not having the input is saving weight and cost without sacrificing any quality. Just use the built in mic to sync sound in post. External recorders can be attached to the hotshoe with a shotgun mic, but it's better to do what the pros do and basically give each person their own lapel mic and recorder. Heck most cell phones work great as a recorder and your subjects probably already have one in their pocket. David Gilmour recorded some of his last album on an iphone, the sound quality is there. TBH the preamps on most hybrid cameras are garbage anyway. Leaving it out entirely was a bold move, but I think it pays off. With a small cage you can get a wide handle, external audio recorder, and a reasonably priced cine lens and a mic. Throw in the cineD hack. That's a very capable, stable 4k rig for around 1,000 USD or approximately 50,000 Canadian. I think you would have a hard time beating that. You can get cheaper cameras, but with no stabilizer, you're going to need to drop some cash on a gimbal or learn how to use a glidecam or drop serious dough on stabilized lenses. Probably end up with external audio anyway. With a g7, m50, a6#00 you can get the body and a stabilized lens or a gimbal and it's your whole 1000 budget. With a g85 you get audio, but it's 2-400 more, so basically the cost of the external recorder but you do get weather sealing, a little more cost for a little more features. It's an upgraded version of the gx85 though, so... that's not news. Even in 2020, I can't think of a better 4k rig for the money.
G7 (369 used) + 200 dollar gimbal + 200 dollar Tascam mic + 150 dollar Panasonic 25mm f1.7 = Under 1k as well. You make some great points, but the way I view it is you'll need a gimbal regardless, for ideal performance, and then in body stablization doesn't matter much. It also causes a slight cop in the 4k setting vs G7. Both are great options, but I like the G7 as a true all arounder.
I'm only discovering this now and have to agree that this was a great review. Also, those monochrome photos of the gentleman around 2:48 are simply fantastic.
It's always like that for the america market, GH4 in europe the same 29 minutes limit, just with GH4R there's no time limit, so in europe GX80, it's limited to 29,59m.
+zeebazu not really. As event shooters often hits to that limit. Ie. put camera on gorilla pod, attach camera to over head height on wedding dance floor and put in a 128GB card and let it record. You get all from camera. same in churches etc where ceremony can last over 30min, and you don't need to worry about schedule if ceremony starts 15-30min late etc. All kind events are that requires few B cameras with unlimited recording. But yes, as a A camera.... not really a need. same thing with a mic jack, no need as use a external recorder and sync automatically in post... That's reason why time codes are great in recorders and cameras that there isn't problems.
+zeebazu not really. As event shooters often hits to that limit. Ie. put camera on gorilla pod, attach camera to over head height on wedding dance floor and put in a 128GB card and let it record. You get all from camera. same in churches etc where ceremony can last over 30min, and you don't need to worry about schedule if ceremony starts 15-30min late etc. All kind events are that requires few B cameras with unlimited recording. But yes, as a A camera.... not really a need. same thing with a mic jack, no need as use a external recorder and sync automatically in post... That's reason why time codes are great in recorders and cameras that there isn't problems.
+zeebazu not really. As event shooters often hits to that limit. Ie. put camera on gorilla pod, attach camera to over head height on wedding dance floor and put in a 128GB card and let it record. You get all from camera. same in churches etc where ceremony can last over 30min, and you don't need to worry about schedule if ceremony starts 15-30min late etc. All kind events are that requires few B cameras with unlimited recording. But yes, as a A camera.... not really a need. same thing with a mic jack, no need as use a external recorder and sync automatically in post... That's reason why time codes are great in recorders and cameras that there isn't problems.
For some of us, the lack of a mic input isn't a make or break scenario. 95 percent of the time I have a sound mixer on set handling audio. That other 5 percent of the time I'm still recording to a Zoom and then syncing in post to all the other cameras. The 5 axis stabilization is a serious asset for manual lenses. My handheld shooting is fairly steady, and with the ibis I've been able to get shoots that look like they came off a steadicam.
Another great video review. I'm tempted to have a GX85 as a second body. I have switched from Sony to Panasonic since the beginning of the year and I couldn't be happier. The Panasonic/Olympus system actually deliver the promise of mirrorless. Small bodies, small lenses but image quality which can be used for professional purposes.
As a sound engineer I way prefer that a camera like this doesn't bother with proper audio because (as in this video) in encourages folks to record the sound properly with separate devices. And it sounds better. So yeah
Great review guys! I've been following for a while, and looking forward to a review of this camera. That said, I had already purchased it after much consideration against Fuji and various other makes/models. The price point, the features, and the portability of the kit + some select primes has already made my first jump into Micro Four Thirds a very pleasant experience. This will be my travel/family shooter, supplanting my more bulky Nikon kit for such tasks. I'd agree on pretty much every point, save for the video aspects. Having a mic input and vlog may be nice for real video shooters, but for just capturing some quick moments I've been absolutely floored by the video quality as-is, and have not yet missed the ability to add an external mic. To each their own, though for me it's been a great little camera!
I thought the Z9 was the first camera with pre-buffer. Seems I was wrong. Pretty cool that it was already available 8 years ago, even though the output was just 4K resolution.
4:36 the weight comes from the body image stabilization. Cannot avoid or reduce the weight. The mechanical stabilization units simply have a weight, matter has weight.
Appreciate the review. I'm a GX7 user and share the same sentiment regarding videography for this new camera. Great insight on the camera and the three lenses. Keep it up!
Fair point on the lack of mic input, but I feel you set the internal mic so as to exaggerate the problem. You can place a home-made spongy filter over the mic to eliminate most of the wind noise and also adjust the volume, but in any case if you want a camera for anything decent other than personal blogging you'd still need a separate sound system and more than one microphone (for example for interview work). I don't think the lack of mic input is a deal breaker for almost anything other than blogging. This is still a fabulous camera for the price.
I think it's not compare-able if you look at the price tag... For low-light and image quality (megapixels,dynamic range) go with the Sony. If you want fantastic stabilisation (handheld video footage; longer handheld shutter speed ) and better technology (like the post focus function) I would rather go with the Panasonic. I'm going to buy the gx80/gx85 soon :)
Hi guys, I tried out the Panasonic GX-85 yesterday and I did like the autofocusing very much as it is quick and acturate. My question to you all would be the lens to use as the kit lens is not something I want to buy. Thanks ahead of time and supporting this great channel all the way from Hong Kong
I had the same problem with the Pana-Leica 100-400 when I rented it. I don't know if I (and you) didn't get it fully unlocked, but eventually it freed up and it was lovely action. Very smooth and easy. I think the lock is silly and that hood is hilariously ridiculous, but the lens was lovely.
If Panasonic will use the same lens as the Lx100 i surely hope they will go for a 20mp sensor without the OLPF After all the crop left just 12-13 mp of resolution. Which surely limited the ability to crop. Which given the short 75mm lens was limiting it's versatility. we could crop to let's say 85-100mm with the same resolution of the original it would make the camera for more useful for portraits. 1/4000th flash sync is something that allows us to do very creative things indeed.
Since they already have a 20mp 4/3 sensor implemented on the GX8, I think that's the obvious choice for the LX100 successor, since it has the "crop problem".
That doesn't change anything! I know they're very different in use, but still: both use a 4/3" sensor. There's no logical argument to avoid putting a 20MP on the LX100 successor, since the "low res" 12MP effectiveness was one of the principal downsides of the LX100. PS: and since Panasonic already put 20MP even in the cheaper 1inch sensor of the ZS100, this might indicate that it'll gradually upgrade their new cameras to this resolution, and LX200 is the one most needing this upgrade.
can anyone please explain. There's AFS and AFC for video. But there's also "Continuous AF" on/off in the menu. So even if you select AFS the camera will still do AFC if "Continuous AF" set to "On". Basically AFS/AFC selection is useless
Great review, as always. Though, you guys didn't test the HDMI out. It has 8-bit 4-2-2, and if you use a monitor-cum-recorder like the Blackmagic 4k VideoAssist, you can record audio separately into that (little cumbersome, I guess). The colours from the cameras are absolutely stellar. I agree with you, about the poor quality RAW photos. I am guessing it is as much an issue with the Processing of RAW (12 bit or less), as much as it is about the sensor. Panasonic needs to work on creating 14-bit RAW. Also, I hope Panasonic release some kind of Log Profile for the GX85 (even if it's a paid firmware update), as well as improve their VLog for the GH4 (it's not too great). I think Panasonic should improve all their Log Profile (VLog, Cineline D, Cineline V), and have Atleast 2 of these on All their ILC, Bridge, and large sensor cameras. Excellent review. You guys were unfair about the video though ;-)
Thanks for the video. Would you please tell me if this camera can record 4k videos for long time without overheating and if I can use it while connected with charging cable (with no batteries)? need a second camera in order to record 2 hours lectures
Lately after taking so many photos the camera just freezes and to get it to work again I switch off and on again but the freeze don’t go away.... by freezing I mean it just doesn’t take no photo when pressing shoot button... only way to get to work is take the battery out and put back in..... can someone tell me what is happening.... I just bought the camera few months ago brand new... it’s realy weird
Really good review, it's good to know the good points and bad points before buying. I just bought it based on your review and Ted Forbes review. Nice to see good honest, unbiased reviews. Cheers.
Hey Chris, I really hope you do a review on your Jordan. You always seem to be using him. Also, do you know of any new versions that come with an adjustable sarcasm dial? I feel like that would be helpful.
Another great review. I agree with the review with one minor exception. I like the low profile look of this camera. I don't need it to be flashy. As a street shooter, travel camera, I prefer that it draws little attention to itself. I do wish there was weather sealing though. And it is heavier than I anticipated. Takes some getting used as you mentioned.
Yes definitely, he's like the look of the camera doesn't wow me!!! Thats what makes it WOW to me!!! Kind of that old school Konica Yashica look!!! Now that's a wow to me, lol
Can an external USB battery power bank be used to power the camera during video shoot? I'd like to use this to shoot high school volleyball and can't be changing batteries during the shoot. If external USB battery bank can't be use, is there any other option to power the unit continuously (without A/C outlet access)? Thanks.
Hy, Do you know if this model got HDMI LIVE mode and keep sending video signal trough the HDMI out put during filming ? ( My DMC-FZ300 LUMIX shutdown the monitor and give me a nice black window !!! ) PS : Same limitation on GH7 !!
Hey Great review! Best so far. I have seen so many review with flat dull images. I am not sure if you shot RAW or if these were out of the camera. I might wait for the next version, but you have definitely made me lean more towards purchasing a micro 4/3 camera.
Just saw a different video of GX85 IBIS shooting video on different lenses including legacy (no IS) lenses. Just stunning. So yeah, seems a must have. But must have mic jack too, hopefully 3.5mm.
agreed, the lack of a video mic input kind of kills it for videographers. the five-axis IBIS really makes it a great camera PANASONIC OIS lenses.... for stills and video... however, you'd need an external sound recorder or a GH4 as a second Channel to get the proper sound... bummer I have two GH4 bodies , I'm considering selling one and getting this while I'm waiting for the GH5. I can use it for better stabilized stills and as a second Channel to my GH4 for video. I like the size/portability, and I like the in- body stabilization ... decisions decisions nice work, thanks
CameraStore guys can you please confirm from Panasonic why they don't release G series like G7,GX7 etc here in India ?? :( We have a6300 but never got this.
LX100 or the GX80 with the 12-32 f3.5-5.6 kit lens? GX80 is 80 Euro more expensive. I'm just getting into photography and wondering which would be the best to learn with and for going forward. Thanks, Steve
The LX100 is a great stills camera but it has very poor image stabilization so unless you use a tripod you will not get the smooth video achieve by the GX80.
Excellent review. I'm still vacillating between the GX85 and the GX8 as my second camera. Main camera is a GH5. The stabilizer for hand held video is causing me to lean toward the GX85.
I have the original Panasonic 45-200mm, and I've heard conflicting things about DFD when it comes to this lens. Any verdict on this? I currently have an Olympus E-PL5 so I haven't been able to test this out.
Just to elaborate, the sound and stabilization are both important to me so I guess my question is which is most bearable. Thanks again. If anyone else can answer this then I'd be very appreciative too.
Great review! I would have liked to hear your thoughts on the 12-60. I hope Panasonic merges the best of the G7 and GX80 for a G8(with a less angular body). Upon purchasing and exclusively using my G7, I have become a big fan of Panasonic mirrorless and can't wait to see what they come up with next.
that was a great review, but for me I think that it was a bit unrealistic when talking about sound. you can set the sound and it works pretty well, ofcourse not comparable with external mic but that will depend the purpose ...
Please help ... I want to have a similar compact camera with the stills and video quality of the GX85, as good/better IS but also an audio jack - anyone have suggestions?
How would you guys (or anyone else who is familiar with both cameras) say this compares to the Olympus OMD EM5 MK2? It seems to have very similar specs to it (minus of course the 4k video) and is hitting right around a similar price point. Be really interested to hear how they compare in the real world
Just tested it, because 13 frames per buffer sounds a bit small. I got 46 JPG+RAW continuous shooting until the buffer was full. Used AFS and mechanical Shutter, which delivers 6 frames per seconds compared to 8 with electronic shutter, if I remember correctly. And I am using a SD Card, which writes about 80 MB/s. So maybe the buffer would be full after 13 frames, but if you use a fast SD, you don't need to worry about that.
Hello, how are you? I hope you are very well, I am writing to congratulate you, incredible work in the review of these cameras, thanks for the information, I had a question about the Gx85, what is the best way to record the audio on this camera? and What are the best accessories to do it? I hope you can help me and again congratulations on your work.
Has anyone used both Olympus E-P5 and the GX85? I own the E-P5 and am thinking of selling it and getting the GX85 for its viewfinder; Is it a good upgrade?
Solid review. Quick question...how does the IQ compare to the Pen F? I have heard the Olympus (beautiful camera etc.) is actually softer. I am not talking price or looks only IQ.
I must be in the minority but I vastly prefer panasonic camera designs to fuji and olympus. They are rugged and decisively designed with function in mind and it produces an aesthetic I have really come to appreciate. Olympus and Fuji seem deadset on making their cameras look like they are from the fifties, which is fair enough, only I was born 30 years after the fact and I don't need or like that kind of look. It is totally unappealing. Really enjoyed the vid guys!
personally I prefer the look of the Panasonic to the Fuji, the Fuji seems to try too hard to be vintage and I don't want to be that guy trying to look so hard to be vintage (like the comb-over bearded floral t-shirt metro-male wanker look). Panasonic has a sleek slight hinted to retro look and if you forget retro as a concept it's clean moderness is properly attractive. Where as if you forget retro concept with Fuji they tend to look lop sided and r cluncky alla Olympus bridge head.
+Jim Stirling that's a good and valid point Jim, but not correct in every situation. There is a functional side to appearance as well such as portability / storage balance, handling, coordination between eye piece and touch screen Too compact and coordination is too hard, too clunky or large and storage is an issue. I think it is OK to admire the camera you choose but you definitely shouldn't choose a worse camera just because you like it's looks. Like that Nikon retro beast that came out a few years ago with the quality and features of a much lesser model (sorry can't remember it's name)
Brian Cullen most people never got past its looks. under the hood it was a capable camera with an outstanding sensor that can easily hold its own even today. only downside was a slower focus system.
No clue. We've mentioned this to Panasonic and never been given a straight answer. I find that feature invaluable on some gimbal shoots. Jordan 'Smart Guy' Drake @ TCSTV
I'm paraphrasing David Thorpe here in my reply. Auto ISO is being done in both Panasonic and Olympus cameras during stills shooting and neither can do it during Manual video shooting so perhaps it is for technical reasons it isn't offered as they don't seem to be against it in principle.
I guess the answer to your question is not staring at your face hard enough. Why do you think camera manufactures keep producing cameras at the rate of (rabbit) kitens coming out of their mother's wombs. Mathematical precisions of what is included with every new camera is the rule of law in a commercial environment. Basically whatever feature is missing in one camera will be added in the next 'model' and that's how they make their constant flow of profits...and we are the eternal fools for supporting their ongoing agenda. We can stop any manufacturer making a fool of ourselves when we stop being taken for fools. Take this from a 'little bird'.
Hi Chris, thank you for the review of the GX85. I want to point out that the GX85 body w/SD card & battery is only 11g heavier than G7 w/SD card & battery and 24g heavier than the GX7 w/SD card & battery. Perhaps it's the lens that you are using on the GX85 that makes the whole camera a lot heavier; I noticed in your G7 review you were using the lighter Panasonic 14-42mm II kit lens.
Six years later and I just got a brand new GX85. Indeed it remains a nice camera still relevant in 2023.
I'm even later than you and just got mine - I love this camera! The super sharp photos, 4k video quality and IBIS has really given this camera some legs. I think it's fantastic as a first camera for travelling and every day use.
@@rikimarizard It's great that you got a GX85. They are indeed wonderful little cameras.
Hey, @d30gaijin and @rikimarizard! I'm thinking of buying it because of the videos of Theo Crawford, i love the warm colors and the look of the image and would like to learn to snap photos like his. Also I'm a beginner and i think for the proce this is the best camera to start with, I've heard also that it is easy to use, which is a good thing. The easier something is to use, the more frequently we resort to it. Can you share with me settings that you use for yours and so far how's your imoression of the cam?
Just bought one with Lumix 15mm; can't wait! :)
@@darkolee3513me too. On the way
not enough reviews are mentioning the easter egg feature of this camera... the first m43 to feature USB charging. a great advantage for a travel friendly camera to have.
Man, all these Panasonic models look so fantastic--there's something to love in the G7, GX8, and now the GX80--but I really hope we see the GH5 4k 60p and improved low light at Photokina this year.
I always look forward to your reviews every week. I just wish the weeks would pass quicker. You guys are arguably one of the best camera reviews channel on TH-cam. Sending love from London.
Great review guys! Sold my 5D3 and picked up the GX85 with the new 12-60mm lens, along with a speedbooster for my Canon glass - I'm LOVING this camera!! I always ran dual-system sound with the 5D3 anyways, because I couldn't interview people and always be near the camera at the same time... and for vloggers, the audio's not much different than what you'd find on other point-and-shoots like a G7X at arms length. Just be sure to put a Micro Windjammer over the mics to cut down on the wind noise. Mic inputs and a headphone jack would have been nice... but truthfully, being able to film handheld with a 50mm prime using the internal IBIS, and an affordable Lens Turbo focal reducer with an extra stop of light is mind-blowing at this price point. The bokeh is unreal, and the crispy 4K video is putting Canon DSLR's in this price range to shame :)
i'm with you on this. I wasn't even planning on a new camera this year but this camera checks almost all the boxes. mic input would have been nice but not a deal breaker.
Did you bought also one for me?
Chris Prouse The gx85 or the gx8 what would you choose?
Tim De smet gx9
Just bought the GX85 and have watched MANY videos on it before and after. THIS, is the best by far. Instant subscribe for me!
Your photo in the minute 2:53 I reminded me of my grandfather, Great video!
Best regards!
Jordan, you said 3 axis IBIS- it's 5 axis WITHOUT IS in the lens. It's 5 axis IBIS plus 2 more WITH IS in the lens. You guys are attacking the no mic input, but it's a detail if you'd normally sync in post anyway. Also, you didn't mention that this is the FIRST MTF 4k shooter with interchangeable lenses to have 5 axis 4k. Finally, no mention of NO OVERHEATING and NO MAX RECORDING TIME LIMIT. Sorry to criticise, but I think you missed the boat on this one.
You have just answered all of my questions. Thanks!
Agreed!
Dam ,good points their dude. It doesn't overheat... taking notes SONY?
First 4K with 5IBIS and interchangeable lenses?!! What about Sony A7rii and A7sii?
Good call on the no overheating and no max recording. I've had zero issues with that, and the camera has performed flawlessly on a couple of shoots I had this past week. After using that 5-axis stabilization, I'm not sure I can go back to a camera without that feature. It's so clutch for getting steady handheld footage.
JordanYou're unbelievable......Can't wait to see your reviews.No messing around and straightforward.Thanks
The weight is magnets. 5 axis ibis requires several magnets, the solenoids have magnets. Magnets are generally heavy. It's also necessary for the camera to be heavy for the stabilizer to work. If the camera is too light then the camera can move instead of the sensor.
I also don't agree with it being for stills. I think most serious videographers and even a lot of vloggers are going to use an external audio anyway, so not having the input is saving weight and cost without sacrificing any quality. Just use the built in mic to sync sound in post. External recorders can be attached to the hotshoe with a shotgun mic, but it's better to do what the pros do and basically give each person their own lapel mic and recorder. Heck most cell phones work great as a recorder and your subjects probably already have one in their pocket. David Gilmour recorded some of his last album on an iphone, the sound quality is there.
TBH the preamps on most hybrid cameras are garbage anyway. Leaving it out entirely was a bold move, but I think it pays off.
With a small cage you can get a wide handle, external audio recorder, and a reasonably priced cine lens and a mic. Throw in the cineD hack. That's a very capable, stable 4k rig for around 1,000 USD or approximately 50,000 Canadian. I think you would have a hard time beating that.
You can get cheaper cameras, but with no stabilizer, you're going to need to drop some cash on a gimbal or learn how to use a glidecam or drop serious dough on stabilized lenses. Probably end up with external audio anyway. With a g7, m50, a6#00 you can get the body and a stabilized lens or a gimbal and it's your whole 1000 budget. With a g85 you get audio, but it's 2-400 more, so basically the cost of the external recorder but you do get weather sealing, a little more cost for a little more features. It's an upgraded version of the gx85 though, so... that's not news.
Even in 2020, I can't think of a better 4k rig for the money.
G7 (369 used) + 200 dollar gimbal + 200 dollar Tascam mic + 150 dollar Panasonic 25mm f1.7 = Under 1k as well. You make some great points, but the way I view it is you'll need a gimbal regardless, for ideal performance, and then in body stablization doesn't matter much. It also causes a slight cop in the 4k setting vs G7. Both are great options, but I like the G7 as a true all arounder.
I'm only discovering this now and have to agree that this was a great review. Also, those monochrome photos of the gentleman around 2:48 are simply fantastic.
One killer GX85 feature for the videographer: unlimited video recording. Only the GH4 can match this.
It's always like that for the america market, GH4 in europe the same 29 minutes limit, just with GH4R there's no time limit, so in europe GX80, it's limited to 29,59m.
Straight uncut 29 minutes+ is a rare thing in professional use anyway.
+zeebazu not really. As event shooters often hits to that limit. Ie. put camera on gorilla pod, attach camera to over head height on wedding dance floor and put in a 128GB card and let it record. You get all from camera. same in churches etc where ceremony can last over 30min, and you don't need to worry about schedule if ceremony starts 15-30min late etc.
All kind events are that requires few B cameras with unlimited recording.
But yes, as a A camera.... not really a need. same thing with a mic jack, no need as use a external recorder and sync automatically in post... That's reason why time codes are great in recorders and cameras that there isn't problems.
+zeebazu not really. As event shooters often hits to that limit. Ie. put camera on gorilla pod, attach camera to over head height on wedding dance floor and put in a 128GB card and let it record. You get all from camera. same in churches etc where ceremony can last over 30min, and you don't need to worry about schedule if ceremony starts 15-30min late etc.
All kind events are that requires few B cameras with unlimited recording.
But yes, as a A camera.... not really a need. same thing with a mic jack, no need as use a external recorder and sync automatically in post... That's reason why time codes are great in recorders and cameras that there isn't problems.
+zeebazu not really. As event shooters often hits to that limit. Ie. put camera on gorilla pod, attach camera to over head height on wedding dance floor and put in a 128GB card and let it record. You get all from camera. same in churches etc where ceremony can last over 30min, and you don't need to worry about schedule if ceremony starts 15-30min late etc.
All kind events are that requires few B cameras with unlimited recording.
But yes, as a A camera.... not really a need. same thing with a mic jack, no need as use a external recorder and sync automatically in post... That's reason why time codes are great in recorders and cameras that there isn't problems.
For some of us, the lack of a mic input isn't a make or break scenario. 95 percent of the time I have a sound mixer on set handling audio. That other 5 percent of the time I'm still recording to a Zoom and then syncing in post to all the other cameras. The 5 axis stabilization is a serious asset for manual lenses. My handheld shooting is fairly steady, and with the ibis I've been able to get shoots that look like they came off a steadicam.
Agreed. The stabilization is far, far more important, and there are ways you can insert sound without a jack input.
Another great video review. I'm tempted to have a GX85 as a second body. I have switched from Sony to Panasonic since the beginning of the year and I couldn't be happier. The Panasonic/Olympus system actually deliver the promise of mirrorless. Small bodies, small lenses but image quality which can be used for professional purposes.
Another great review guys.
Man, your videos just gets better and better. You guys are an awesome team
I bought this and now its in the mail, I am dying of excitement .... cant wait to put my hands on this and share on instagram.
As a sound engineer I way prefer that a camera like this doesn't bother with proper audio because (as in this video) in encourages folks to record the sound properly with separate devices. And it sounds better. So yeah
Love this little camera! We've been using as our go to for a lot of work when out in the field.
Great production value in this vid. Loved the little slider shots. The review itself was first rate- I feel like I know this product. Roll on the GH5!
Great review guys! I've been following for a while, and looking forward to a review of this camera. That said, I had already purchased it after much consideration against Fuji and various other makes/models. The price point, the features, and the portability of the kit + some select primes has already made my first jump into Micro Four Thirds a very pleasant experience. This will be my travel/family shooter, supplanting my more bulky Nikon kit for such tasks. I'd agree on pretty much every point, save for the video aspects. Having a mic input and vlog may be nice for real video shooters, but for just capturing some quick moments I've been absolutely floored by the video quality as-is, and have not yet missed the ability to add an external mic. To each their own, though for me it's been a great little camera!
I thought the Z9 was the first camera with pre-buffer. Seems I was wrong. Pretty cool that it was already available 8 years ago, even though the output was just 4K resolution.
Plenty of nice (and funny) photographs, Chris. Good job. The new macro lens looks good.
best reviewer . I think this review is what's is making me go towards the Gx85. keep it up!
Make the TCSTV bus happen!
Kickstarter?
4:36 the weight comes from the body image stabilization. Cannot avoid or reduce the weight. The mechanical stabilization units simply have a weight, matter has weight.
Loved how this review looked! Keep the Sony FS5 Jordan! :)
Appreciate the review. I'm a GX7 user and share the same sentiment regarding videography for this new camera. Great insight on the camera and the three lenses. Keep it up!
Thank you so much for this video!! I purchased the camera after watching this and made a short film with it. :)
Fair point on the lack of mic input, but I feel you set the internal mic so as to exaggerate the problem. You can place a home-made spongy filter over the mic to eliminate most of the wind noise and also adjust the volume, but in any case if you want a camera for anything decent other than personal blogging you'd still need a separate sound system and more than one microphone (for example for interview work). I don't think the lack of mic input is a deal breaker for almost anything other than blogging. This is still a fabulous camera for the price.
Which one would be a better buy? Sony 63000 or Panasonic GX85?
great question! which one is better?
I think it's not compare-able if you look at the price tag...
For low-light and image quality (megapixels,dynamic range) go with the Sony.
If you want fantastic stabilisation (handheld video footage; longer handheld shutter speed ) and better technology (like the post focus function) I would rather go with the Panasonic.
I'm going to buy the gx80/gx85 soon :)
Actually i have decided for Panasonic and it is great! video features are awesome.. Good choice till now!
Filippo Scalia do you still have your gx85? How was it?
@@bernie4w748 it great really
At around 13:25 there is one of several horizontal lines cutting across and going up the frame. What is causing that issue?
I can't see it.
Hi guys, I tried out the Panasonic GX-85 yesterday and I did like the autofocusing very much as it is quick and acturate. My question to you all would be the lens to use as the kit lens is not something I want to buy. Thanks ahead of time and supporting this great channel all the way from Hong Kong
I had the same problem with the Pana-Leica 100-400 when I rented it. I don't know if I (and you) didn't get it fully unlocked, but eventually it freed up and it was lovely action. Very smooth and easy. I think the lock is silly and that hood is hilariously ridiculous, but the lens was lovely.
What you think about weather sealing? Ok, heavy rain is out, what about snowing or low temperature 0 or -10C? Or humidity?
Honestly, the cameras I'm looking forward to from Panasonic are the GH5 and LX200. I really hope they put a mic jack on the LX200.
If Panasonic will use the same lens as the Lx100 i surely hope they will go for a 20mp sensor without the OLPF
After all the crop left just 12-13 mp of resolution. Which surely limited the ability to crop.
Which given the short 75mm lens was limiting it's versatility.
we could crop to let's say 85-100mm with the same resolution of the original it would make the camera for more useful for portraits.
1/4000th flash sync is something that allows us to do very creative things indeed.
Since they already have a 20mp 4/3 sensor implemented on the GX8, I think that's the obvious choice for the LX100 successor, since it has the "crop problem".
The LX100 and GX8 are entirely different form factors. The GX8 is an ILC, the LX100 is not.
That doesn't change anything!
I know they're very different in use, but still: both use a 4/3" sensor.
There's no logical argument to avoid putting a 20MP on the LX100 successor, since the "low res" 12MP effectiveness was one of the principal downsides of the LX100.
PS: and since Panasonic already put 20MP even in the cheaper 1inch sensor of the ZS100, this might indicate that it'll gradually upgrade their new cameras to this resolution, and LX200 is the one most needing this upgrade.
can anyone please explain. There's AFS and AFC for video. But there's also "Continuous AF" on/off in the menu. So even if you select AFS the camera will still do AFC if "Continuous AF" set to "On". Basically AFS/AFC selection is useless
3:18 Which video are you referring to where you describe the DFD system?
A great review guys ! One more ... !
Thanks a lot,
Phil
Other shortcomings: 16/9 EVF which is not OLED. No articulating LCD.
The post focus feature was not discussed.
Great review, as always. Though, you guys didn't test the HDMI out. It has 8-bit 4-2-2, and if you use a monitor-cum-recorder like the Blackmagic 4k VideoAssist, you can record audio separately into that (little cumbersome, I guess).
The colours from the cameras are absolutely stellar. I agree with you, about the poor quality RAW photos. I am guessing it is as much an issue with the Processing of RAW (12 bit or less), as much as it is about the sensor. Panasonic needs to work on creating 14-bit RAW.
Also, I hope Panasonic release some kind of Log Profile for the GX85 (even if it's a paid firmware update), as well as improve their VLog for the GH4 (it's not too great).
I think Panasonic should improve all their Log Profile (VLog, Cineline D, Cineline V), and have Atleast 2 of these on All their ILC, Bridge, and large sensor cameras.
Excellent review. You guys were unfair about the video though ;-)
Have you tried the lx100? How does it compare with the gx85?
What took u guys so long?!?!?!
But, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes.
Am dying to watch the review. Very excited !!! Catch u guys later
Just got this camera today. Very eager to get some shots of Christmas lights over the next few days!
A most entertaining review!! ... Thank you!
Thanks for the video. Would you please tell me if this camera can record 4k videos for long time without overheating and if I can use it while connected with charging cable (with no batteries)? need a second camera in order to record 2 hours lectures
Fantastic video guys!! Great job!
Why is there a bicycle deck at 6:11
Never been this early to a tcstv video!
"Makes it very "throwable"?" Because, you never know when you might want to use your camera for a softball!
Those OOC jpegs colors are really really good, im impressed, if i had the money now i would buy it. Thanks for the review
Lately after taking so many photos the camera just freezes and to get it to work again I switch off and on again but the freeze don’t go away.... by freezing I mean it just doesn’t take no photo when pressing shoot button... only way to get to work is take the battery out and put back in..... can someone tell me what is happening.... I just bought the camera few months ago brand new... it’s realy weird
How about the battery life? Another review says that he went through 2 batteries over only half a day.
I own this camera what is the best video monitor for this camera cause I am have trouble with focusing with the small monitor of the camera
Really good review, it's good to know the good points and bad points before buying. I just bought it based on your review and Ted Forbes review. Nice to see good honest, unbiased reviews. Cheers.
Hey Chris, I really hope you do a review on your Jordan. You always seem to be using him.
Also, do you know of any new versions that come with an adjustable sarcasm dial? I feel like that would be helpful.
Another great review. I agree with the review with one minor exception. I like the low profile look of this camera. I don't need it to be flashy. As a street shooter, travel camera, I prefer that it draws little attention to itself. I do wish there was weather sealing though. And it is heavier than I anticipated. Takes some getting used as you mentioned.
Yes definitely, he's like the look of the camera doesn't wow me!!! Thats what makes it WOW to me!!! Kind of that old school Konica Yashica look!!! Now that's a wow to me, lol
My copy of the 100-400's zoom is reasonably smooth. I'm pretty happy with it in good light.
Can an external USB battery power bank be used to power the camera during video shoot? I'd like to use this to shoot high school volleyball and can't be changing batteries during the shoot. If external USB battery bank can't be use, is there any other option to power the unit continuously (without A/C outlet access)? Thanks.
Very nice video and review. I'm a owner of a GX80 too, and i love it!
what would you recommend the gx8 gx85 or fuji t20 . photos and videos
Hy, Do you know if this model got HDMI LIVE mode and keep sending video signal trough the HDMI out put during filming ? ( My DMC-FZ300 LUMIX shutdown the monitor and give me a nice black window !!! ) PS : Same limitation on GH7 !!
speaking of mirrorless camera, between sony A6300 and Panasonic Gx85. which once do u recommend someone like me who want to purchase a small camera ?
2:49 WHAT A SHOT!!!
PLEASE, This camera has Focus Peaking to use vintage lenses???
Hey Great review! Best so far. I have seen so many review with flat dull images. I am not sure if you shot RAW or if these were out of the camera. I might wait for the next version, but you have definitely made me lean more towards purchasing a micro 4/3 camera.
Just saw a different video of GX85 IBIS shooting video on different lenses including legacy (no IS) lenses. Just stunning. So yeah, seems a must have. But must have mic jack too, hopefully 3.5mm.
It is possible that Panasonic brings on V-log with a firmware upgrade in the future, you think?
agreed, the lack of a video mic input kind of kills it for videographers. the five-axis IBIS really makes it a great camera PANASONIC OIS lenses.... for stills and video... however, you'd need an external sound recorder or a GH4 as a second Channel to get the proper sound... bummer
I have two GH4 bodies , I'm considering selling one and getting this while I'm waiting for the GH5. I can use it for better stabilized stills and as a second Channel to my GH4 for video. I like the size/portability, and I like the in- body stabilization ... decisions decisions
nice work, thanks
CameraStore guys can you please confirm from Panasonic why they don't release G series like G7,GX7 etc here in India ?? :( We have a6300 but never got this.
who is INDIA? Yeah that's why :D Joking, anyways buy from abroad.
hmm bought a6000 a year ago and happy with it now :D
LX100 or the GX80 with the 12-32 f3.5-5.6 kit lens? GX80 is 80 Euro more expensive. I'm just getting into photography and wondering which would be the best to learn with and for going forward. Thanks, Steve
The LX100 is a great stills camera but it has very poor image stabilization so unless you use a tripod you will not get the smooth video achieve by the GX80.
Excellent review. I'm still vacillating between the GX85 and the GX8 as my second camera. Main camera is a GH5. The stabilizer for hand held video is causing me to lean toward the GX85.
does anyone know if the Gx80/gx85 have high speed sync? and if so can it be done wireless? with what flashes?
I have the original Panasonic 45-200mm, and I've heard conflicting things about DFD when it comes to this lens. Any verdict on this? I currently have an Olympus E-PL5 so I haven't been able to test this out.
thanks for another great review!
Just to elaborate, the sound and stabilization are both important to me so I guess my question is which is most bearable. Thanks again. If anyone else can answer this then I'd be very appreciative too.
Can you go out the the hdmi live to record 4K video to say a Shogun/Ninja or any other 4K recorder?
Great review! I would have liked to hear your thoughts on the 12-60. I hope Panasonic merges the best of the G7 and GX80 for a G8(with a less angular body). Upon purchasing and exclusively using my G7, I have become a big fan of Panasonic mirrorless and can't wait to see what they come up with next.
Sony for life! A5100 and A7ii are my main go to cameras
Great review and amazing landscape!
I just bought one of these and my next video will use it to film! Very excited to see if my food looks more tasty with it! :D
Can i use exposure compensation with auto iso in manual mode?
that was a great review, but for me I think that it was a bit unrealistic when talking about sound. you can set the sound and it works pretty well, ofcourse not comparable with external mic but that will depend the purpose ...
Please help ... I want to have a similar compact camera with the stills and video quality of the GX85, as good/better IS but also an audio jack - anyone have suggestions?
How would you guys (or anyone else who is familiar with both cameras) say this compares to the Olympus OMD EM5 MK2? It seems to have very similar specs to it (minus of course the 4k video) and is hitting right around a similar price point. Be really interested to hear how they compare in the real world
Just tested it, because 13 frames per buffer sounds a bit small. I got 46 JPG+RAW continuous shooting until the buffer was full. Used AFS and mechanical Shutter, which delivers 6 frames per seconds compared to 8 with electronic shutter, if I remember correctly. And I am using a SD Card, which writes about 80 MB/s. So maybe the buffer would be full after 13 frames, but if you use a fast SD, you don't need to worry about that.
I think it's the G7 sister camera and probably what you can expect in the upcoming G8 lets see....
Hello, how are you? I hope you are very well, I am writing to congratulate you, incredible work in the review of these cameras, thanks for the information, I had a question about the Gx85, what is the best way to record the audio on this camera? and What are the best accessories to do it? I hope you can help me and again congratulations on your work.
Has anyone used both Olympus E-P5 and the GX85? I own the E-P5 and am thinking of selling it and getting the GX85 for its viewfinder; Is it a good upgrade?
Solid review. Quick question...how does the IQ compare to the Pen F? I have heard the Olympus (beautiful camera etc.) is actually softer. I am not talking price or looks only IQ.
I must be in the minority but I vastly prefer panasonic camera designs to fuji and olympus. They are rugged and decisively designed with function in mind and it produces an aesthetic I have really come to appreciate. Olympus and Fuji seem deadset on making their cameras look like they are from the fifties, which is fair enough, only I was born 30 years after the fact and I don't need or like that kind of look. It is totally unappealing. Really enjoyed the vid guys!
personally I prefer the look of the Panasonic to the Fuji, the Fuji seems to try too hard to be vintage and I don't want to be that guy trying to look so hard to be vintage (like the comb-over bearded floral t-shirt metro-male wanker look).
Panasonic has a sleek slight hinted to retro look and if you forget retro as a concept it's clean moderness is properly attractive. Where as if you forget retro concept with Fuji they tend to look lop sided and r cluncky alla Olympus bridge head.
I might suggest Brian that the minute you give a shit how the camera looks compared to another that you are in danger of being "that guy "
I'm a true opposite of 'that guy' then because I used and loved the pentax K-01!
+Jim Stirling that's a good and valid point Jim, but not correct in every situation. There is a functional side to appearance as well such as portability / storage balance, handling, coordination between eye piece and touch screen Too compact and coordination is too hard, too clunky or large and storage is an issue. I think it is OK to admire the camera you choose but you definitely shouldn't choose a worse camera just because you like it's looks. Like that Nikon retro beast that came out a few years ago with the quality and features of a much lesser model (sorry can't remember it's name)
+zeebazu nothing wrong with loving something unique.
Brian Cullen most people never got past its looks. under the hood it was a capable camera with an outstanding sensor that can easily hold its own even today. only downside was a slower focus system.
Chris and Jordan, you guys are smart guys. Do you have an opinion or theory as to why Panasonic can't give us Auto ISO during video recording?
No clue. We've mentioned this to Panasonic and never been given a straight answer. I find that feature invaluable on some gimbal shoots.
Jordan 'Smart Guy' Drake @ TCSTV
I'm paraphrasing David Thorpe here in my reply. Auto ISO is being done in both Panasonic and Olympus cameras during stills shooting and neither can do it during Manual video shooting so perhaps it is for technical reasons it isn't offered as they don't seem to be against it in principle.
I guess the answer to your question is not staring at your face hard enough. Why do you think camera manufactures keep producing cameras at the rate of (rabbit) kitens coming out of their mother's wombs. Mathematical precisions of what is included with every new camera is the rule of law in a commercial environment. Basically whatever feature is missing in one camera will be added in the next 'model' and that's how they make their constant flow of profits...and we are the eternal fools for supporting their ongoing agenda. We can stop any manufacturer making a fool of ourselves when we stop being taken for fools. Take this from a 'little bird'.
which pancake lens should i get for this camera? kit lens?
Kenneth yau I have the panasonic 20mm 1.7 lens for pancake....love it
Hi guys, would you say the gx85 is a worthwhile upgrade from the g7?
Guys, sorry may be you hear it first time, but what kind of a mic system you are using?
Quick question: A6000 or GX80 to kids and travel photos?
looks like an great camera. Any idea if the video is limited to 29mins?
Hi Chris, thank you for the review of the GX85. I want to point out that the GX85 body w/SD card & battery is only 11g heavier than G7 w/SD card & battery and 24g heavier than the GX7 w/SD card & battery. Perhaps it's the lens that you are using on the GX85 that makes the whole camera a lot heavier; I noticed in your G7 review you were using the lighter Panasonic 14-42mm II kit lens.
hello ! im looking for a light travel camera, cant decide between this one and Son a6000, what do you think?