Now is a good time to upgrade to the GX9. I just bought a 2nd GX9 as a backup. Panasonic seems to have turned its back on photographers and the GX line. My favorite feature of the GX9 is the L monochrome D setting. The best B&W jpeg. Sorry Acros. I wish there was an audio jac. Mask On Nurse Marty (Ret)
Great review David! I’ve discovered my current camera on one of your videos (lx100) and now I’m taking my first steps into the micro 4/3 world. Greetings from Argentina
Love your reviews. I own a GX85 in part because of your review of it and am quite happy. I was hoping for more with the GX9. It costs over twice what I paid for my GX85 ($400), but doesn't give twice the image quality. Still I hope Panasonic continues to make these smaller bodied cameras and maybe I will consider it when the price drops a bit.
Great review as always David! I never really considered the GX9 until your review. I LOVE my GX8 for street photography. But it feels a little much sometimes. The GX9 could work. I'll wait for some testing to see how the sensor compares to the GX8. I also find it a bit on the expensive side as well. Cost the same as the GX8 when that first came out. But if the sensor matches or betters the GX8, could be worthwhile.
Thanks, Philip, glad it's useful. What don't you like about the typography? I do the whole thing myself from writing to the HTML (it wouldn't be economical otherwise). Any feedback is welcome.
I've commented on your videos before David, I enjoy how like minded I think you and I are about these cameras. It's not just that I think we "like" the same things, it's that we both value a tool that produces what we want it to produce. Lumix, Olympus, Leica, Nikon, Canon...whatever. For the work I do I get the images I want to produce and expect on the other end. The quality of the Lumix/Leica/Olympus glass is excellent and plentiful and produces the results I want. I now buy black bodies and tape over logos just to avoid the discussions with people. I laughed the other night after photographing a huge rock concert I was back stage shooting some candids with my GX9 and Oly 17mm f/1.7. Someone who knows my work asked me "Where did you put your real cameras after shooting the show?" I just smiled and said "in the car."
Shooting backstage you really don't want to be conspicuous but you need a 'proper' camera. A GX9 and 17mm are just perfect for it. Back in my press photography days we used to tape over the Nikon logo on the front of the cameras. That was because Nikon kept using us in their advertising but did nothing for us in return. Eventually they cottoned on and opened their excellent profesional service.
New M43 user here. I've bought the Gx9 a few weeks ago and stil learning how to best use it. It's a Quite different animal from my old (entry DSLR) Nikon D3000. You review helped me decide. Thank you.
Great to hear that. Thanks. Yes, a different animal, though once you have got to grips with it there's much more you can do. It's just that initial learning curve. Incidentally, I have a book on the GX9 - amzn.to/2W7xyNA
It's only the name and basic outline shape that make the GX8 and the GX9 related. Otherwise they are very different cameras. Glad you liked the review, thanks Miguel!
You're right, Sam, no battery grip available. They need a series of contacts on the camera base plate to communicate and the GX8 doesn't have that so not even possible.
Great review! I bought one about 9 months ago and absolutely love it. Pro tip for bouncing the internal flash. Using a hair tie, you can keep it in upright position without fear of breaking it. Took some party pictures the other day in the nearly pitch black, just bouncing it off my hand (high and dark ceiling) to get some quite usable results.
Thank you for all of your reviews! I enjoy every single one of them. I upgraded from the GX85 to the GX9 and I absolutely love it. I found the GX9 grip to be just slightly bigger, which made it perfect for me. It came with the 12-60, but I sold that lens in favor of the 14-140. I do a lot of hiking, and the GX9 with the 14-140 is the perfect combination of size, versatility, and image quality. I can take a landscape shot at 14, or zoom in to 140 for flowers and birds.
Glad you like the reviews, Shane, thanks. I've always liked the 14-140 because it doesn't ditch performance to get the zoom range. It's actually one of the most consistent across the range, in fact, in spite of the 10x ratio. On a GX9, itself a very compact but nonetheless versatile camera, they make a formidable combo for sheer practicality. I had 12-60 lens too but while I know some photographers find it ideal, I found myself not using it and using the 14-140 instead. On a couple of days in Paris not for photography purposes, I used it on my (then) GX80 and felt much more comfortable having that long telephoto end, something I use a lot for pictorial perspective purposes . All that and you don't even need a dedicated camera bag!
i dont mean to be off topic but does anybody know a method to log back into an Instagram account..? I was dumb lost my password. I love any tricks you can offer me
@Deacon Felix Thanks for your reply. I got to the site through google and Im waiting for the hacking stuff now. Looks like it's gonna take a while so I will get back to you later with my results.
as a g7 user and fan, i welcome your insights. thank you for the effort and the sharing. of course, i do wish that panasonic had offered a headphone port. i am an appreciative subscriber. thumbs up.
Great review as always David. I really look forward to your reviews. I still love my gx8. I tend to stick with what I’ve got until it fails or something really outstanding comes along. It’s not been very nice here with constant rain. Only got out yesterday very cold but got a couple of nice shots. Happy shooting.
The GX8 was something of a one-off for Panasonic, it seems. It has the lovely EVF and the 20Mp sensor, so really there's no reason to change it. Few photographers use cameras at the extremes of their capabilities and its the extremes that get the improvement so for most photography there's no difference between a GX8 and a G9. Glad you like the reviews, thanks.
I normally buy and then sell the stuff I review so that I can say exactly what I like but the f/1.2 are so expensive it's not economic. I'll ask ePHOTOzine if they can help but Olympus are very unhelpful to minnow like me. Glad you like the reviews, Ali, thanks.
David Thorpe it always makes me wonder how come you are not bigger on YT. But then again maybe because there is fewer users of MFT than Sony, Canon or Nikon.
Marketing has ALWAYS been Olympus' weakest trait! And it still continues to anchor them at the bottom. The 4/3rd system was so so capable but only because of or lack of good marketing, it never really got hold. Now we have the µ4/3rd system and if it wasn't for what it is, I am sure it would've died even before becoming popular, forget about competing with other brand names.
I dont really care about Digital cameras, instead I just come for the entertainment value, the calm voice, the unique camera representations, and the passion for a system that produces amazing cameras that are not seen as an option by many due to some dissimilarities to other systems.
Thanks again for sharing your expert view again with us David. I own the GX( and I love t. I even love the swifle Viewfinder a lot I love that to. The GX9 has nice features but should be named GX90 Although perfoming better than the GX8 (not weird as it is a newer camera) it is not a worthy successor in my opinion to small, less robust not sealed and inferior viewfinder. I hope that Panasonic brings a true successor for the GX8 in the future ( like you once said Pen F was desgined by a Technician the GX8 by a photographer). That said I am very happy with my GX8. Though I am considering to buy a second camera for my wife. She likes taking photo's too and now does that with a TZ71 . It was a bit of a failure to buy from todays perspective. I bought the TZ71 before GX as an always in the pocket camera. Today Smartphones serve that purpose. The main thing that is irritating is the electronic zoom, too far too, short and always to slow. A second camera my be smaller but the GX) is to expensive. I was considering an OLY EM10 but I guess GX 80 is less confusing wile the menu structure is similar. I would love to hear your opinion on the GX9 being or not being a worthy successor for the GX8. Just another question. You compared Nocticron 42,5 wiht Lumix 42,5 and preferred the Lumix (not better than the Leica but smaller and better priced) How is that with the Leica 25mm vs the Lumix 25mm The Leica costs € 465. For that price I can buy a Lumix 25mm for € 155 and a Lumix 42.5 for € 322. Total costs almost the same but I have to nice primes? I know the Leica is better…. But that much? .
The 25mm f/1.4 is definitely better than the f/1.7 for sharpness. It's one the sharpest of all Micro Four Thirds lenses in fact and totally usable at f/1.4. Whether you'd really see much difference in sharpness in practise is another matter. It's noiser in use than the f/1.7 and a bit slower to focus, too. The GX9, I don' think it has anything to do with the GX8 other than the apparent one of the model number, it's an update to the GX80/85. I doubt Panasonic will bring out an upgraded GX8 at all. Personally, with the price of the Leiza 25mm, I'd buy the 25 and 42.5 though if I had the f/1.4 I certainly wouldn't get rid of it.
I adore Panasonic but you're so right, the naming system is a complete mess! Love the review, I'm really intrigued by the GX9 it looks wonderful. I was considering a Gx camera to replace my second camera. If this had a mic input I think I'd already have ordered one
It’s interesting to note that in its home country of Japan, the GX9 is called the GX7 Mark III, and the GX80 (aka GX85) is the GX7 Mark II. They made the naming madness export-only!
I agree totally. Just bought this camera for my wife. We did a fair bit of shopping around, and found the nomenclature confusing. Still, we got there in the end. I have an FZ1000 and love it to bits, and found the similar menu system made life easier.
I always thought the higher frame rate the better in terms of continuous shooting. Then I did a couple sporting events and realized I had way too many shots that were the same and too many in general. I think I'm fine with 4-6fps and not the 8.5 my camera is capable of. So I find it less of a selling point for new cameras that can do 15 (even 60!!) fps, I just think of how insane that would be to organize and go through all those photos.
The lack of mic input is to encourage you to buy a G85, as you have done, Daniel :-) I think a lot of these things are marketeer rather than engineering led.
Great videos, thanks for sharing! At 4:00, “the GX9 and the G9 is about as good as it gets for micro four thirds” about seals the deal for me. I have had my G9 for more than a year a year now and it is fantastic (replaced my G7), but was looking for something smaller for street use. I had a point and shoot ZS19 years ago that I had before the G7, then I got the ZS100 which was much better but not good enough. I have been trying to decide between the GX85 with the 12-32 kit lens versus the GX9 with the 12-60 kit lens for $200 more. After watching this video, I’m leaning towards the GX9. Thanks!
Thanks! My two cameras are a G9 and the GX9. They complement one another nicely because of the size and design and like you I use them for different purposes. The G85 (or G90) is excellent too but I'd probably choose that more if it was the only camera I was going to have.
Do you think they'll ever upgrade my beloved GX8? It feels like GX8 type is gone for good - which would be a shame. To me it's the perfect balance of form & function.
No, I don't think they'll upgrade it. With the GX9, they seem to have organised some sense into their naming system si if there was to eb an upgrade for the GX8 it would have to have a different name. It looks to me like they have sidelined it. I could see a logic to upgrading the GX8 - the GX9 serves as a rangefinder style G80, a new GX8, whatever its name would serve as a rangefinder style G9. That would leave the GH5 model range intact and cover all needs. However, Panasonic don't even know that I exist, let alone care what I say so I'm no help!
That's a bummer, but I get the same impression. It seems like they've sidelined it. What a pity. Well, I guess I'll just wait and see. It's not like my GX8 broke on GX9 release day ;). Thanks for your input, David! P.S. Besides the fact that it affects a GX8 upgrade I'm all for better naming & better structure. I don't think Pana (or every other manufacturer) needs more than 3-5 Camera types. Anything beyond that is in my opinion for the specialty market.
Thank you, good review as always. So I stay with the GX85, as it is called where I live, most of all as I got the G9 as well. But you are right, a G9 with a GX9 as a second body is pretty much the best m43 first and second body combination available today or for any system. The charm of m43 again, an also very nice combination of any Sony a7/9 with any of their a6_000s is somehow comparable, but all your focal lengths change with the smaller body etc.
nice review as always David. - I was disappointed with this release - nothing but a small updated to the GX85 - I was expecting a GX8 update - with a nice EVF - not the little one on the GX85 - GX8 was a bit fat - but nice button layout - but I really think the GX85 and GX9 are a bit to small - the Fuji X-Pro2 size is as large I would like but I feel the GX9 is to small - Yes stills focus with Panasonic is fantastic - but as video is as good as it is I think the tracking focus is lacking in video - they really need hybrid with phase detect - I really think Panasonic will suffer big time from not having Phase Detect for video - I have the GM1 GM5 and GX1 GX7 GX8 GX85 and Zs100 and LX10 and LX100 - so no one can say I do not like Panasonic :) will consider getting the G9 soon - But I have Fuji X-t1's and X-t2 and X-pro2 as well as the Sony A7 III - and yes I do not like their interfaces etc - but how much better the tracking focus in video is on Fuji and Sony - I just can't figure out this stubbornness with Panasonic - yes their single focus is awesome and that in low light as well - but I would sacrifice 1 stop in low light for good tracking focus in video The G9 is supposedly better with tracking - but it is still Contrast based - and not all lenses compatible with their DFD - Video folks are screaming at Panasonic to improve tracking focus - Panasonic has brilliant video features int he Gh5 and GH5s - and awesome IBIS in the GH5 and G9 - but tracking focus just not usable - many are moving to Sony - and yes they do not have articulated LCD - but many are just buying LCD monitors in hotshoe to solve the problem. And yes battery life is short compared to new competition - Seems Panasonic is abandoning the GX8 upgrades and that class - a class in lie with the Sony A6300 - A6500 and Olympus Em5 - the $1000-1300 price range - my feeling is that they just do not want to compete with the Sony - So yes the G9 looks impressive - but being a m43 at $1700 when the Sony FF A7 III is at $2000 and the Sony APS-C A6500 is at $1200 then one has to think twice - I think the price for the G9 should be $1400 - $1500 - an realistically Panasonic and Oly will be loosing ground as Sony is being aggressive in price with their new A7 III and lowering the price of their A6300 and A6500 and there is a new A6700 coming soon - ( yes folks need to do the math on buying sony lenses ) My prediction is that sadly Panasonic will drop most in sales in the mirrorless market - prime reason is no Phase Detect - The GX9 just does not impress in 2018 - a marriage between Sony backlit sensor and Panasonics Touch and interface and Fuji's colors would be fantastic :)
The video focusing on the GH5 and G9 is transformed by using a 120° shutter rather than 180°. I agree about the phase detect, sooner or later Panasonic will need to come up with something as good or preferably better. PD on the Olympus E-M1 Mkll is better but far from head and shoulders above the GH5 mainly due to the slowing effect of mounting the PD pixels on the sensor meaning the read speed can't be higher than the sensor. PD really needs a dedicated array off sensor to work best. As regards the pricing, I don't equate price and performance in quite the same way you do, I take more account of the size and weight of the equipment including lenses. In other words I am paying for what I require for my needs rather than always looking for best technical performance. That's not a criticism. You could make a Nikon D5 the same price as a G9 but I still do't want one for the reasons outlined. Interesting take, thanks Jon.
Hi David, Just been watching your review on the GX9, I have been recently watching all your reviews on the micro four thirds system and found them to be fair comprehensive and wonderfully presented, I see myself as an amateur/hobbyist photographer and currently using a Nikon 610 and various lenses , my main lens is a Tamron 24-70 2.8 all very heavy as you can imagine , thats why i am about to invest in the m43rd system for the sheer portability of it and also have been so impressed at the image quality which is just as good as the digital dslr also the Olympus and Panasonic lenses are very reasonably priced in comparison to say Nikon and Canon , even some of the panasonic fast lenses are great value. as i do also a lot of street photography the 2 camera,s I,m deciding between is the GX9 and the Olympus om-d 5 mk2 . I wonder David if you were in my position which one you would buy. Thank you, and keep up your reviews.
Hi Alan. Glad you find the videos helpful! I like the E-M5 II but the GX9 would be preferable for street photography. The rangefinder form factor seems to suit it better and the tilting rather than articulated monitor too. It also has the same IQ as the newest top range cameras whereas the Olympus still has the 16Mp one. Plus, you can charge the battery in the camera - handier than it might sound at first.
GX9 has a nice accessory grip option at an affordable price as well. Nearly half the price of the PEN-F's. As a PEN fan this camera appeals to me as a real upgrade to my E-P5. Tilt EVF (Won't miss that great function on the VF-4), 4k and with panasonic lenses..DFD autofocus...and 5 axis of course. May give it a whirl.
Good video David! I just picked up the Panasonic G9 and I love it! deciding now between the gh5s or two black magic design pocket cameras when or if they come out in September.
Thanks for the Review, David! I have a Oly E-M5 mark 2 and a couple of good lenses. Both Olympus and Panasonic . Do you Think GX9 would be a upgrade for me in image quality? I want to stay with the smaller cameras. Im also considering the Pen-F but Im a bit courious to try a Panasonic camera. BR Magnus
You're welcome! Yes, the image quality of the GX9 is better than the Olympus, mainly due to the removal of the low pass filter and the extra pixels. It's not enough to make the change worthwhile on its own in my view but many would disagree. The Pen F is lovely but you are paying a lot of money for the build quality and retro design. The GX9 represents better value for money as a camera. One thing you would notice about Panasonics is how much easier to use the menu system is. The Olympus has a better EVF, though and the two cameras are completely different in feel.
Love to see some pics shot with the GX9 & Olympus 40-150 f2.8 pro lens - it looks like an awesome Combo set up! I’ve seen surfing pics shot with that pro lens & T C but on an Olympus body. Jaw dropping 😱🎥🎉
Thanks for the video David it was helpful to know it is more of an incremental upgrade over the gx85.. also, any chance you might be reviewing any of the Olympus f1.2 pro series primed any time soon?
I'd like to, Kim, but Olympus are utterly unhelpful tp minnows like me. Even ePz can't get hold of them. Normally I buy stuff to review but the price of these lenses makes that impractical.
David Thorpe hey David, I completely understand about the prices! But why on earth would they not send this type of equipment to a well regarded reviewer! They might need some glasses because that’s pretty short sighted if you ask me!
I think so too, Kim. While I don't have the following of the big RUclips hitters, all my work is concerning Micro Four Thirds. But big corporations don't have time for detail like that. :-(
I thought the numeral digits in the GX line denoted the level of the camera. GXnnn (GX850) were the entry levels much like olympus em10. Then midtier are GXnn (GX85) comparable to olympus em5 and then the single digit ones GXn (GX8) are the top ones similar to the olympus em1.
David Thorpe I agree. The incremental upgrade/updates applied with each release is part of what makes it confusing... But your info about the Gs and GHs was helpful. I had no idea on those since I was only looking at the small bodies. Stay awesome!
I'm new to MF3 and absolutely love your channel - thanks for the videos, David. The GX9 is the camera I'm leaning toward buying. I shoot mostly landscapes and architecture at twilight, and am very much a street style minimalist - nothing too big, including lenses! I'm also considering the LX100 II because it simplifies the lens issue, and is very portable. Neither are weatherproofed - ugh! I actually like the tilting screen and tilting EVF, which shies me away from the LX100 II, but I like the dials and rings on that one more. Why can't Panasonic just make the perfect camera instead of forcing us to compromise?! Could you please review the LX100 II? And I'd love your advice for an art photographer who abandoned the Canon 5D and Contax G2 in favor of the iPhone, who is now being lured into the MF3 world thanks partly to your channel :)
Great, I was waiting for this video: I entered a camera store to purchase a Pen F but found this side by side and now I'm convinced anymore. Could you pleas put these camera side by suide for a comparison? they are so similar the choice is not obvious (setting aside the price component)
I haven't got the Pen F any more - had to sell it to fund other review items. In terms of overall performance both cameras do a similar job. The EVF on the Pen is bigger but other than that the GX9 is just as good. You pay a lot of money for the satisfying feel and look of the Pen - it really is a nice camera to use. But in terms of performance, the Panasonic is a better buy with enough left over for an extra lens.
I don't understand why a company like Panasonic, would "upgrade" a model and remove a fundamental benefit like a fully articulated screen that the GX8 came with. In that respect the GX9 is more of an upgrade to the GX80, (as suggested) than a newer version of the GX8 as the naming convention suggests.
I think Panasonic really screwed up the naming. The GX9 is (as you say) not an upgrade to the GX8 at all but the GX80. It doesn't look to me as if the GX8 will have a successor at all. Shame!
Ahhh, everytime Panasonic announces a new camera I just hope it'd be a GM, smallest ever (or not bigger than GM1), fully featured-with flash, IBIS, poppy up EVF like sony- and If they need extra space for IBIS etc, they could increase the depth of the grip and it would even fit a better battery... Sorry David, I don't know where else to make this suggestion for panasonic. What would you like on a new GM?
Much like you, bring it up to date with IBIS and , especially, improve the controls. I am still surprised that the GMs didn't sell well. They were appreciated by people already familiar with Micro Four Thirds but I think maybe people wanting to upgrade from a phone camera thought that because they looked like a compact, they'd perform like one. Wrong but enough to limit sales., unfortunately.
David, I hope you're doing well. I recently got rid of my GX7 due to a dirty sensor that I couldn't get clean because the debris was actually lodged underneath the glass covering the sensor. Apparently there are others that have had that issue with the GX7. Anyway, that was somewhat besides the point. My question is about how greats that GX7 was as a compliment to my well loved G85. I LOVED having that 2 camera setup. Less lens changing and not at all burdensome to carry the extra body. The small, rangefinder style was perfect for adorning my 20mm f/1.7 or Laowa 7.5mm f/2 while my G85 usually had my 14-140mm attached. Anyway, finally my question: Which MFT rangefinder style camera has the best viewfinder and would be a good replacement for my GX7? I found the GX7 perfect except the issue I described and also the viewfinder was not clear or large enough especially in bright light or trying to focus the super wide 7.5mm. Also, I often enjoyed using the flip up viewfinder. So although not essential, I prefer not to give up that feature Thoughts?
I haven't got much in the way of thoughts on that, Gil, because there's not much to have thoughts on. The only rangefinder style Micro Four Thirds cameras available now are the Panasonic GX9 and Olympus Pen F. The Pen F is actually discontinued but I see that there are some supplies left if you hunt round. The Pen F has the best viewfinder, not particularly good for its price but its not flip-up and the camera is very expensive due to its rather good build quality. The GX9 is very similar to your GX80, same EVF but, like the GX7, it tilts. It also has the 20Mp sensor. So those are the choices. I'd suggest that mixing of makes, with their different menus and controls makes for a less than smooth user experience and the GX9 would be your best bet. Unfortunately it has the same EVF as previous models so is not the greatest, as you will already know from your GX80. I'd suggest you get another GX80 (still available new) to make a pair or, better, a GX9 which is similar but with some worthwhile enhancements. Shame the GX8 isn't around new. It is bigger but has a superb tilting EVF. Although listed on the Panasonic web site, it isn't available there but maybe you could find a dealer who has one or a good used one. If you could put up with the extra physical size, you'd love the GX8 I'm sure.
@@DavidThorpeMFT Excellent! Thank you so much! Super helpful info as always! I had been wondering about the GX8's EVF. I think I'll look for a deal on a clean used one. I Actually mis-typed originally: My current primary camera is a G85 not GX85. So, I'm looking to compliment my bigger body plus a smaller rangefinder. It's too bad the GX9 doesn't have a better viewfinder for the high price and also too bad the GX85 doesn't have an AF switch. Thanks again!
David, thanks, I enjoyed this. (N.B. I find grasping your written into the picture comments while the audio goes on about something else entirely pretty demanding.) Re GX8 vs 9 as they are currently almost the same price: You said somewhere "they are very different cameras", could you please enlarge on that a little? How do you find the IQ between 20 MP with vs w/o filter? How does the Ibis compare? Anything else which would make you prefer the GX8 (other than the EVF, I heard you there)? What about the famous shutter-shock - no probs if you forego the 14-140? Your comments would be highly appreciated. Thanks again!
The IQ difference between the cameras is quite small and you'd need results side by side to really appreciate them. For me, the dropping of the low pass filter makes the results a bit more sparky, to use a technical term :-). Cleaner would describe it. I have come across shutter shock a fair few times with the GX8 and not only with the 14-140. I'm always aware of the possibility. It's not that serious, actually and is only noticeable at higher viewing sizes but I find it a relief not to have to worry about it at all with the GX9 and its whispering shutter. I use ESHTR with both cameras but I don't like feeling I need to use it. The IBIS on the GX9 is considerably better, the body alone being equivalent to Dual IS on the GX8 (with a compliant lens, of course)as far as I can tell. With a compliant lens on the GX9, stabilization is to a high standard and as good as you need. I can use my old 80s Nikon 300mm on the GX9 and the IBIS gives me sharp shots down to around 1/80th - and I have shaky hands. It's partly the size that makes the two cameras feel different, plus tilting v articulated monitor and the EVF sizes. The GX8 would feel entirely at home on a tripod where the GX9 would seem out of place. It's largely subjective, I suppose because they both function well. But if I were doing technical subjects, for example, architecture, The GX8 would be a more efficient camera for the job and feel suited to it. The GX9 not so much, largely because of the EVF but also the much less versatile monitor. The two stranded videos, I understand what you say. I want to get so much into the videos but that can make them much too long. So I try to do two things at once. I don't have an answer for that but I do note that people rarely watch a video over 5 minutes long all the way through. More thought required on my part, I suppose.
The shutter shock doesn't often appear and the GX8 stabilization is perfectly good, especially with a Dual IS compatible lens. If the size of the GX8 suits you, I'd stay with it.
David, thanks for your exhaustive answer. @first I didn't see there was more text beyond "would describe it", which is why I rephrased my question re Ibis and shutter-shock. Now I can see it's was all there, sorry for this. I'm having trouble w/ this bl***y "revamped" youtube anyway. Re the video length: I am surprised. I mean the Northrups are much longer than 5', so is Chris Nicolls who now joined DPReview, so is Jason Lanier to mention a couple of people I watch. And while your style isn't exactly meandering, it is thoughtful, exhaustive, trying to x-reference, give examples, so how could you be done in 5'? And reading the rather glowing comments - not only to this here - I'd say these people value that style and take the time needed. (But still they cannot process information heard AND read at the same time ... or is that just me :-O )
It's unlikely to be just you, Stef. It is something I will think about because my aim is to make the videos informative but still easy to watch. Maybe I could speed them up :-) Which reminds me of the Woody Allen story about how he had been taking lessons in speed reading. "I read War and Peace in 20 minutes. Something to do with Russia, i believe".
Got the gx9 since the first day available in store, like it a lot so far. The grip although seems to be very similar to the one on gx85 but it’s actually much more comfortable. The evf is not very good compared to other cameras such as penf, Leica CL, xpro2 etc but it’s a lot cheaper than those( it costs about the same as a xe3 here in Hong Kong) although I’m definitely willing to pay more for a better evf.
Hi David, thanks for reviewing this. I am torn between G80 and GX9. I like the EVF, tilting screen of G80 but wonder if the image quality and colours are better with GX9? At least that's what I have been reading that panasonic has improved colours with GX9. Is that your definite observation too? I mainly plan to use for travel pictures. I have a full frame sony but looking for something compact. Thanks
The colour output of the GX9 is very pleasing, as is the overall image quality, up to the best that Micro Four Thirds can offer. It seems to sparkle a bit more than the G80 is the only way i can put it, these things being so subjective. As a second camera to your Sony, I'd have thought the GX9 was a better choice being a bit smaller and handier than the G80. And with the 12-32 and 35-100 lenses as shown in the video, just about perfect as a travel camera.
Genious, thanks David. I might go with a GX9, 12-32 and 20/1.7. I used to have a 20 with a GX85 before. Found that focal length and aperture quite handy. Or have a 2 prime lens kit- Olympus 12/2 and Panny 20/1.7
Hi David, firstly thanks for the great videos, I really like your understated style! I have a gx7 and am thinking of upgrading to either gx9 or em5 ii, which is available at a very very good price now it's been updated. Unfortunately I live somewhere that olympus doesn't seem to sell, so haven't been able to try it in hand. What do you think?
Hi Mr K - glad you like the videos, thanks. I think I'd go for the Panasonic as it is a much more up to date camera than the Olympus. The downside is the smaller EVF but its perfectly usable. The cameras are similar in size but very different in style so the only definitive way to choose would be to try them both for feel. Since you can't do that and there is very little to dislike about the GX9, it's the safer bet. If cost is a big consideration, I'd buy the Olympus of it was £150 or equivalent less than the GX9.
@@mrk5534 If you really like the GX7 now you know how the rangefinder form feels and know the size of the EVF, I'd be inclined to the GX9. If you are unhappy with either of those things, the Olympus and save some money. Personally, 20Mp and 4K video does mean you have all the latest Micro Four Thirds attributes and does future proof you a bit.
Hi David, really been enjoying your videos As a beginner can I ask for advice please Given the significant price gap GX80 or GX9 is it worth paying almost double or start with the GX80 I’m thinking go with the GX80 as I’m coming back to photography from a long break. and want to do a little video too Size and carrying the kit is a major factor for me in addition to price and IQ I’ve changed my focus from Sony A6000 series to Panasonic and m43 as the lens size looks like a better bet for kit size Thanks
In most essentials the GX80 and GX9 are the same camera, leaving aside the 20Mp sensor. For practically all photography which is now viewed mainly on screens with occasional prints up to, say, A4, the sensor size difference of 4Mp is not a factor at all. If you have the budget for a GX9, I think you'd do much better to buy a GX80, 12-32 and the 35-100 f/4-f/5.6 small (read tiny) zooms. They don't compromise image quality at all and give a ridiculously compact and capable outfit with dual stabilization and fast AF. Even more, you'll enjoy using the outfit because it handles well and feels very good in the hand.
David Thorpe thanks for the quick response I found the dual kit lens with the 12-32 and the 35-100 and was trying to decide if that was the way to go over say the 18-140 or some primes. I think starting back you’ve helped me make up my mind that the dual lens kit is a great place to start back. I can always build my kit up but yes the versatility of the two will be good I remember when I first started out my kit consisted of Minolta 7000 with 35-70 and a 70-210. Many Minolta and later Sony bodies having added 28-85, 400, 50. Then stopped for years and am now wanting to start back but the main reason for stopped was size I’m hoping m43 will help solve that for me and this looks a great place to start. My photography will be a range of family shots and general purpose Thanks again
Mine seems clear enough. I just get the on screen information as sharp as possible. I wear bifocals, though, so the screen appearance varies depending on my exact eye positioning. My main problem is that I hate the adjustment, which seems not finely enough gradated and too hard to move. I'd like something that could locked once set, too.
Hi David. I have a EM5ii & thought my next purchase would be a EM5iii or EM1ii but rangefinder style cameras like the GX9 are suddenly appealing to me and I'm shocked by the relative value of the GX9 compared to the EM5iii (& discontinued PEN F) with body only new prices of £450 GX9 and £950+ EM5iii. The specs look similar with 20MP, 4k vid, Phase detect or DFD focusing etc except the EM5iii has bigger EVF which I would miss, articulating LCD (as a stills taker maybe non artic better anyway?) & weather sealing (as a non pro I rarely require). Whilst the GX9 only has 4 stops IS I can team it up with the Leica 12-60 f2.8-4 for Dual IS when I am not using primes. I would buy 2nd hand & keep the EM5ii as backup but this gives an idea of value. Am I missing something?? PS An all black version of the GX9 looks a stealthy black beauty teamed up with Oly 17mm or PL 15mm. Regards, Rich.
No, I don't think you are missing anything. At the current pricing for a body, it's camera that punches well above its price point. In term of Iq, I see nk difference between this and the other 20Mp Micro Four Thirds cameras.
@@DavidThorpeMFT sorry David I meant to ask .. are the SOOC JPEGs on the GX9 as good as Olympus now that Pana have apparently improved them? Thx in advance Rich
@@JeevesTCW In a side by side comparison I prefer sometimes one, sometimes the other. I do think Olympus looks nicer for rustic type landscape colours but I prefer Panasonic for others. I don't think the difference in jpg are a reason for favouring one camera over the other since you can adjust colours to suit yourself. If you shoot RAW the colours are how you want them entirely, of course.
Hello David, the camera is in. The GX9. Charging and I can’t wait. I struggle with getting it to display just one single focus point in the center. I could not get it done on the gx8 and the gx85 now on the gx9 I also move my focus using the viewfinder with my left eye. Is it old fashioned to want to have a single center fixed focus and need I learn the tricks or can it still be set on a camera like this.
I use a single box in the centre all the time nearly. If you hit the left cursor button you can select the AF mode there. If you touch the box, highlighting it, a press on the Disp. button will centre it. If you go through the Menu you will find Operation Lock Setting. Turn Touch Screen on. Now assign Operation Lock to the Fn2 button. That button will now toggle the touch screen on and off with one press. If you want to retain the use of the cursor buttons for ISO, WB etc you can activate the focus box by hitting first the left cursor and then the down cursor. You can then move the box around with the cursors without using the touch screen. As ever, a touch on Disp. will centre it. As soon as you half press the shutter release, the cursor buttons will revert to their designated purposes. Hope that helps, john.
Yes David, this helps a lot. I have send the 140 kit combo back, it was lighter but not portable for edc anymore, replacing my lx7 so I am looking for a body and 17mm now. With your setup I can enjoy a move to m43 as I was hoping. Thanks.
Is this camera good for table top video? I like the price point, even with 2 or3 lenses it won't break the bank. I am not into Street. If there is a better camera for video please let me know? I love the tilting EVF, that sells it for me. Excellent video review. Thanx
Yes, very good. I use it for my RUclips videos and often shoot in 4K for the 'product' shots, so that I have scope to zoom and pan in Photoshop in post processing. One of the GH5s would be 'better' in terms of having more highly technical technical videocentric adjustments available but I don't need them and the basic IQ of the GX9 is no different anyway. The main reason for buying another Micro Four Thirds camera for video would be for sound, Mic in and headphone sockets, which are lacking in the GX9. Not a factor in table top video, I find :-)
Excellent review. Quick question, from the outset the fuji xe-3 is comparable to the the gx9. What do you think? You don't seem to be a big fuji fan ...... i went through the listings and i have not seen any fuji review. What is exactly that you don't like with them?
Nothing that I don't like at all. I made a decision when I ditched my DSLRs that wanted something as small as possible while providing adequate IQ. APS-C seems a bit of a halfway house to me with Micro Four Thirds hitting the sweet spot. To make my decision, I considered the purpose of the final output. In all the output media that I use, screen or print, there is nothing that would have even full frame make any difference to my end purpose IQ, let alone APS-C. Fuji are great cameras but the system is less mature in terms of lenses and I am loathe to have a camera system for which there is only one major lens maker. Nonetheless, if, after I had sold my DSLRs, some kind soul had given me a set of Fuji equipment, I'd probably be using that now. I'm not that concerned with my tools as long as they do the job. I'm a little different from other reviewers in that I buy the stuff that I review in the main, so buying Olympus, Panasonic, Fuju, Sony et al would require a much richer man than me! It's a disadvantage in some ways but it does mean that I can say exactly what I think in my reviews. Glad you liked the review, by the way.
Thank you very much once more. As always an honest and very thoughtful opinion. I must tell you that over the last 2-3 months i have watched a lot of videos. Initially i was all over the place in terms of equipment and reviewers. I must tell you that you really stood up with your objective evaluation. This weekend i review my notes and realised that the xe3 was similar in size to the gx9 that is why i wondered. I did not realize the limitation of the lens variety. The options you get from olympus and panasonic is amazing, pro big lenses or good quality compact / light lenses. To be honest a gm5 gx800 body with the gx9/85 capability would be the holly grail for m4/3. The Pen 9 could be interesting. I have decided to go with the m4/3 and you have helped a lot in forming my opinion on the camera and the lenses. Respect.
What can I say? - I'm glad I've been helpful. The reassuring factor in any choice today is that there is no bad one, it's just that some choices are better suited to the individual than others. Happy shooting!
great review David. Now I am using Olympus EPL3 and want to switch to Lumix because of significant price drop in my country. But I still confuse between GX85 and GX9 which one is more preferable in terms of feature and price (worth to buy). Waiting for your suggestion. Thanks
The GX9 has the bigger sensor which is nice to have but not essential. It also has a smaller EVF than the GX85 which you may find off-putting. I don't but some photographers do. In terms of features there's not a lot in it and in fact the main difference is the body design, the G85's DSLR style as opposed to the GX9's rangefinder type body. My personal preference is the GX9 because the body is that much smaller and thus I'm more likely to keep it with me. There's a G90 update to the G85 now but although it has the 20Mp sensor like the GX9 It's not a must have by any means. So, overall, the GX9 but if you can make sure the EVF is satisfactory for you.
@@DavidThorpeMFT thanks for your reply David, but i want to compare between GX9 with GX85/GX80 not G85. What do you think? I love GX85 for its compact size and cheaper price
@@y4yit484 Sorry! All these *****y terse names! That's much simpler! If you already had a GX85, I'd say don't bother with the GX9 but starting out it's a bit more complicated. If you value the 20Mp sensor and swivelling EVF, neither of which I do particularly, the GX9 is better. The in camera charging of the GX9 is handy but, again, nor crucial. In the UK right now the GX80 is about £200 cheaper than the GX9 and that makes it the much more attractive buy than the GX9. If I was going go spend the extra money, putting it towards a new lens would be better idea.
:-) Great to hear that! I expect to shoot 25 for each second. You can do less but it looks jerky. I set the camera up on a tripod and then operate it sitting beside the subect from my phone using the Stop Motion facility on the G9 or whatever. It's tome consuming but fun.
Great review as always. I wont be upgrading my gx80 for one. Only improvement is sensor, which is not massive and I dislike the tilty EVF and poorly implemented EC dial. Nice camera though, just not if you have its predecessor.
Hey David, so per our discussion I ended up getting a great deal on a like new gx850, Which I plan to just use for a take everywhere camera for mainly photo, and video of my kids. I still like to pick up either a GM1 or a GM5 just to have. But in searching out, I had a question hopefully you could answer. What is the smallest MFT camera in the Panasonic line that has an external mic jack? Thanks!
Watched this video; signed up for your blog; bought your Kindle edition of The Panasonic GX9 Menu System Simplified, but I still have a question. I can reset file number to zero and create folder for camera to store images, but can I add a number prefix to the image names? I am trying to avoid having duplicate file names with images previously created with my GX85.
Hi David - if I understand you correctly, go to _Setup->Folder / File Settings->File Name setting_ and you can set a custom file name there. The name will always start with a P but I have mine set so that my file names are PGX90001 and so on.
I'm still waiting for the Brompton Four Thirds. It'll have two lenses fitted with rollers in place of wheels and the brake levers will act as aperture/ shutter speed controls. The rest of the design has yet to be decided, I am told.
For the gx7/gx85/gx9 owners out there: Does anyone else feel like the series' grips have been getting worse? The loss of the slope at the top of the grip made the gx9 less comfortable for me. Does anyone think it odd that the lx100 has engraved dials, but none of the interchangeable bodies do? How would would people feel about a gx body with no mode dial? How should panasonic deal with the fallout of the gx8? They made a premium rangefinder, and it didn't sell. At the time, they removed the focus switch from the gx85, but now put engraved exposure compensation and focus switch on the gx9. Should they keep reheating the gx7 or try to make something in between the gx8 and gx85? I feel like a well done, and well priced gx body has the potential to outsell the a6xxx series. Thoughts?
I'd have though a GX in the form of a rangefinder type body based on but maybe smaller than the G9 would be popular. But I thought the GX8 would too. Anyone?
Thanks David for wonderful review.. I am GX85 owner, and have been thinking of should I or should not I upgrade to GX9. Panasonic said they improved JPEG color especially sky and skin tone on this 20mp sensor. How do you compare image quality of GX9 over GX85? GX10 might be 2-3 years away though.. Thank you.
The GX9's extra pixels don't come at any cost in noise so overall the IQ is better. You have a choice of AWB, one warmer, one cooler. Both are richer in appearance than the GX80s and I'm inclined to the straight AWB rather than the cooler AWBc. The difference here is fairly subtle but definitely apparent side by side. For myself, the GX9 just looks better, less clinical than the GX80 and certainly as nice as the Olympus rendering. My personal opinion is that it is't enough to warrant the upgrade on its own but I reckon a lot of photographers seeing two JPGs side by side might well disagree with me.
Thanks David.. I got GX9 for few days now, and used it along side my GX85.. Below are 4 key things that make GX9 more enjoyable and capable over GX85, to my style of photography.. 1. JPEG color looks noticably more beautiful, more detail and sharper.. 2. I can adjust Exposure compensation when using M Mode ! This is great since I can have almost all fully control of setting (expect for ISO, but I can set max ISO though). In GX85, I can't adjust EC in M Mode.. 3. With a bit different front and back grip, the heavier GX9 has surprisingly better ergonomic, at least in my hand.. Now I can comfortably hold bigger lenses like 12-35/2.8with more comfort.. Perhaps GX9's extra 24g heavier makes it a bit less head-heavy with heavy lenses.. 4. With nearly 20% more resolution, GX9's LCD is much much more beautiful and clearer than GX85.. Regarding menu, GX9 is a bit more complex (more lines, more steps, a bit harder to page up/down), but new GX9's My Menu page comes in handy.. One thing I noticed, but yet confirmed or tested, was that GX9 may has even slightly better low light performance than GX85.. I am more comfortable using GX9 at ISO3200, while at ISO1600 with GX85 in low light.. Perhaps better GX9's output makes me bias here :) Overall, I am super highly satisfied with GX9, and will continue to use GX85 as second camera.. Both use the same battery, so they're good complimentary.. Thanks for your review for helping me make decision..
I don't seem to have replied to your first post - sorry! I normally reply to all messages so i don't know how I missed yours. Glad the review helped Ekasak. If you were happy with 16Mp, downsampling from 20 to 16 can improve the noise performance even more. With EC on manual, how does that differ from just changing the aperture, ISO or shutter speed? That's what EC does. One of the nice things about the 20Mp sensor was that it did give more pixels without increasing the noise. and I agree, the JPG output is very pleasing now. As was my GX80, the GX9 is one of my most used cameras now.
Good review but then again, yours always are. I must confess that I wondered why they bothered, it seems very incremental but Panasonic (4k with everything) probably felt that they had to do something further down their product range having rather peaked with the GH5, GH5s and G9.
Thanks, John. Yes, I agree they are rather forced into 'upgrading' their models to keep the interest up and the sales flowing. I find it hard to see what they can do now since the IQ has probably gone as far as it can with the 20Mp sensor and lack of low pass filter. I wonder if they are working on a new sensor type - that seems the only big new thing they could so. I read stuff about it but it all seems pretty far in the future. They can probably get 120fps 6K another stop or two of stabilization but those sort of things are just circus tricks as far as I'm concerned. I'd like 24Mp with two stops better noise as an aim but I'm not really bothered. So what now?
David, yes in a way it seems to me that the ICL camera industry is in a bit of an odd spot currently with both Sony and Panasonic having rather "over performed" technically in recent years. Where do they go next in a volume market that has fallen considerably in numbers of boxes shifted whilst the really clever technical stuff comes with a big price tag and likely niche numbers in terms of sales volumes. Strangely for Canon and Nikon, the way ahead is crystal clear, high performance mirrorless ! Canon has already mapped out their 'consumer end' mirrorless offerings in the M Series which the recent M50 seems to indicate that they will upgrade but keep around/under the £1,000 price point, all they need now do is to match Sony at the full frame end of the market. Where I think Panasonic still has a major edge is around the GH5 type package which is still stunning value for money platform for those people into serious video and film making.
You're right about Canon and Nikon. They can still trade on brand recognition gained over the course of half a century and for them starting out on electronic cameras gives them a direction. I think Panasonic will survive OK because they are such a widespread consumer business and they are innovative too, so that advances in digital imaging can be applied to their ENG cameras etc. I hope Olympus survive but they seem the most vulnerable. Interesting times!
The new organic sensor should add more depth and a film like look. This will save u4/3. If that is not ready in time, an u4/3 X-Trans sensor can do the same. Or else...
So does the gx9 have i.s. video lock and the gx85/gx80 does not? I noticed that you said it was using i.s. lock and that is a huge thing for video. Just wondering if this camera would make a great B camera for video for the G9 or GH5...
Yes, the GX9 does have I.S. Lock. And yes, it'd make a very good B camera for video. It obviously doesn't have the bells and whistles of the GH5 but for straightforward video it is excellent. Many people prefer the tilting monitor for video, too. Bear in mind that it doesn't have mic or headphone in/outs.
I’m looking to buy my first MFT system. Mostly for private and family stuff but also street photography. Is it enough to buy the GX80 or is the GX9 a safer bet?
Either will do the job. The main difference in practice is the 20Mp or 16 Mp sensor. It's unlikely to make much difference to you unless you plan making big prints regularly, over 15x12, say. I'd think the G80 would be plenty for your purposes and the money saved could be spent on the tiny 35-100 f/3.5-5.6 at some point.
@@DavidThorpeMFT Thanks for your reply! I took a completely different path and went with a used GX800 to see if the micro 4/3 is for me. Now equipped with the standard kit lens, I'll get some primes and a zoom lens in the near future.
I haven't got one but I rea and believe it is. The camera are only a couple of mm different in base plate dimensions. I can't find anyone who has actually used one, however,
I mainly use a G9 and a GX9 at the moment. The G9 because it is very versatile and I can call up all my different setups so easily. The GX9 because I bought it for review but it would be a GX80 otherwise as I wouldn't have upgraded. I have about 6 cameras at the moment but if I didn't do reviews it would the two I mentioned. I'll do a video of the cameras I carry later on but I want to see how the Panasonic 50-200 fits in. Or not!
You'd get the bigger sensor, which is good. But the Olympus has a much better EVF and a fully articulated monitor. On balance, no I don't think its worth it unless you really do fancy the rangefinder styling.
It would make sense to shield it as much as possible from the wet but for short periods it should be OK. Weather sealing doesn't mean that much with cameras anyway. My Samsung phone can be dunked in a metre of water for up to half an hour, guaranteed. That's sealing! Cameras are more sensibly styled weather resistant. I wouldn't like to rely on any camera for long periods in drenching rain other than the £5,000 professional stuff that cost enough for proper proofing.
That's difficult, Adam. I'd say the GX9 because it's such a convenient size and shape for carrying around. But also the G9 for the sheer ease and pleasure of use. So both, which one depending on what I'm doing. If it had to be one camera, it'd be the G9 simply because it can do everything I require from a camera.
Sorry, I could not find your email address to send a question to you regarding your “The Panasonic GX9 Menu System Simplified”. Changing Fn2 key to lock the screen utilizing the Operation Lock setting is problematic because it also prevents me from using the joy stick to move the cursor when the Operation Lock is activated. I want only the screen locked so I cannot accidentally move the cursor with my nose, but at the same time, be able to move the cursor with the joy stick. Is there a way to just assign just touch screen off to a function key?
Difficult, isn't it? My personal view is that the GX9 is the best all rounder of them all taking into account size and price. Trouble is, you need to be sure that the smallish EVF is something that you can live with. I prefer the E-M1 over the E-M5MkII, lovely quality feel and size if you like something a little bigger. And it does everything well. The Pen F has a lovely feel and design. For sure, there's no bad choice.
Thanks. Bought a GX9 3 weeks ago. Wow! Sold my Nikon D5500&5300 and all lenses... On paper Nikon is better, but, in the hand... GX9 and 7-14 F4 is a wonder, with Panasonic Stabilisation 1+ second blur free interior Cathedral shots. With Olympus 14mm F1.8 a formidable street set up. Weight saving is enormous and image quality is excellent. Thanks for all your help...
The GX80 didn't have one and this camera is a development of that rather than the GX8. It's that name confusion that causes the problem! The articulating screen increases the depth and weight of the body which doesn't matter on a bigger camera but does on this one.
My GX8 a articulated screen failed twice in seven months and Panasonic is having problems finding warranty information to do the repair, very disappointing, The screen is great for my physical restraints but may not be worth a $480 repair sigh. Is the GX9 the answer?
Hi Caula - the Olympus 40-150 fm2.8 doesn't have stabilization in lens, so you'd be using the body stabilization anway. It doesn't really matter since the in body stabilization is good enough on its own these days. If you want dual stabilization, you have to use the maker's own lenses.
The biggest difference is the size. The GX8 has a far, far better EVF, one of the best, in fact. The GX9 has better stabilization. There's no clear choice but I'd decide on those first two bases - do I want bigger or smaller and how important is the EVF. There's also price of course. In a way, everything points to the GX8.
I've just purchased this camera but I find its auto white balance performance is a bit disappointing as I see a blue colour cast in some of my images taken in lowish light on a cloudy night and I needed to use a cloudy wb to correct it. I'm beginning to wonder if the GX80 was a better bet as I owned it before and it didn't appear to have this auto white balance issue.
There are the two Auto WB settings on the GX9 - AWB is warmer than AWBc. I'm surprised you are getting a cold colour with AWB. I've not noticed any great difference between the GX80 and GX9 white balance but that doesn't mean you wouldn't.
Hi, David. My last post was based on my initial pictures with the camera and they were taken at night but I've since taken more during the day and the colours are nicely saturated, so guess it might have been down to the light at the time. I think its a great little camera overall, so look forward to putting it through its paces a bit more.
Not from Panasonic's point of view! They need to keep some facilities back to encourage you to spend more money! A lot of people prefer to use a separate audio recorder anyway and sync in post processing. It's very easy to do and gives more flexibility than the built in recorder.
Yes, overall it would perform better than the older models though not necessarily the top line professional FF models. With the APS-C models there's not a big difference even with the up to date ones in general photography.
In terms of noise, yes because a bigger sensor will have less than a smaller one for obvious reasons. The Nikon saves money by having a plastic lens mount, fewer focus points, things like that. And of course lenses will be much bigger. For a given price, you are simply looking at different compromises. But IQ isn't everything. Micro Four Thirds set out to balance performance and IQ against useable IQ. FF comes into its own for very large prints. for normal screen viewing there's no difference. In fact on a tablet screen it is impossible to tell shots from MFT from shots on my Samsung S8 phone. Horses for courses, really. If IQ was my main criterion, I'd be looking at medium format.
David Thorpe The only reason I’m looking to get a FF camera is the better dynamic range,more background bokeh and the fact that there seem to be more “professional “,but the Panasonic Cameras have everything you need but a better low light performance than FF and minimal background blur and Sony isn’t an option because lenses cost a lot of money and using adapters reduces the features which you got the camera for anyway and canon and Nikon are big cameras with less features than the others but have a great/cheap range of lenses. So I’m really stuck on what I should get as an upgrade next? Any suggestions on what to get.Thanks Aiden
I Will really miss this gentleman...
He dead? Was it the shot?
@@TechnoGlobalist what??
@@NeroMCHe passed away a while ago
@@juergenbreidenstein696 i know
Oh, really. I hope RUclips doesn't shut down his channel.
I bought his book on the GX-9 menu.
Rest in peace. 🙏🏻
I could almost cry. I loved his voice and delivery so much. I didn't get this camera back in the day, but may finally upgrade now...
Now is a good time to upgrade to the GX9.
I just bought a 2nd GX9 as a backup. Panasonic seems to have turned its back on photographers and the GX line. My favorite feature of the GX9 is the L monochrome D setting. The best B&W jpeg. Sorry Acros. I wish there was an audio jac.
Mask On Nurse Marty (Ret)
“Big enough to be your only camera
And small enough to be your second one”
Brilliant.
I want it.
🙂
Always accurate, precise and correct in all details. I really love your reviews David, best micro 4/3 in You Tube. Regards from Portugal.
Thanks - and regards from un uncharacteristically sunny London today!
Great review David! I’ve discovered my current camera on one of your videos (lx100) and now I’m taking my first steps into the micro 4/3 world. Greetings from Argentina
Your review is being loved on the panasonic gx8 group on fb!
I haven't seen that group - I'll see if I have access.
Love your reviews. I own a GX85 in part because of your review of it and am quite happy. I was hoping for more with the GX9. It costs over twice what I paid for my GX85 ($400), but doesn't give twice the image quality. Still I hope Panasonic continues to make these smaller bodied cameras and maybe I will consider it when the price drops a bit.
I was waiting for this review!
I don't consider a Panasonic camera to be "on the market" until you review it.
Thank you!
What can I say? Thanks, Jason.
Great review as always David! I never really considered the GX9 until your review. I LOVE my GX8 for street photography. But it feels a little much sometimes. The GX9 could work. I'll wait for some testing to see how the sensor compares to the GX8. I also find it a bit on the expensive side as well. Cost the same as the GX8 when that first came out. But if the sensor matches or betters the GX8, could be worthwhile.
Love your ‘GX9 Menu System Simplified’ book makes the 340+ page documentation redundant. It’s so useful I’ll even excuse the typography!
Thanks, Philip, glad it's useful. What don't you like about the typography? I do the whole thing myself from writing to the HTML (it wouldn't be economical otherwise). Any feedback is welcome.
I've commented on your videos before David, I enjoy how like minded I think you and I are about these cameras. It's not just that I think we "like" the same things, it's that we both value a tool that produces what we want it to produce. Lumix, Olympus, Leica, Nikon, Canon...whatever. For the work I do I get the images I want to produce and expect on the other end. The quality of the Lumix/Leica/Olympus glass is excellent and plentiful and produces the results I want. I now buy black bodies and tape over logos just to avoid the discussions with people. I laughed the other night after photographing a huge rock concert I was back stage shooting some candids with my GX9 and Oly 17mm f/1.7. Someone who knows my work asked me "Where did you put your real cameras after shooting the show?" I just smiled and said "in the car."
Shooting backstage you really don't want to be conspicuous but you need a 'proper' camera. A GX9 and 17mm are just perfect for it. Back in my press photography days we used to tape over the Nikon logo on the front of the cameras. That was because Nikon kept using us in their advertising but did nothing for us in return. Eventually they cottoned on and opened their excellent profesional service.
Thanks David! I've been looking forward to your review of the GX9. Coming from only the GX7, I can see how this would be a significant upgrade.
Yes, from the GX7 well worth it. Not so certain if you have a GX80.
New M43 user here. I've bought the Gx9 a few weeks ago and stil learning how to best use it. It's a Quite different animal from my old (entry DSLR) Nikon D3000. You review helped me decide. Thank you.
Great to hear that. Thanks. Yes, a different animal, though once you have got to grips with it there's much more you can do. It's just that initial learning curve. Incidentally, I have a book on the GX9 - amzn.to/2W7xyNA
@@DavidThorpeMFT Thanks. I'll Check it out!
Haven't tried the GX9 but wouldn't pick the GX80 over my GX8. Great review as always David!
Yeah, I had the US version, the GX85 and dumped it quickly for a GX8.
It's only the name and basic outline shape that make the GX8 and the GX9 related. Otherwise they are very different cameras. Glad you liked the review, thanks Miguel!
I have a GX8 too, quick question, are GX8's able to get a battery grip? Ive searched everywhere for one, now i just assume one can't be made for it :(
You're right, Sam, no battery grip available. They need a series of contacts on the camera base plate to communicate and the GX8 doesn't have that so not even possible.
Great review!
I bought one about 9 months ago and absolutely love it.
Pro tip for bouncing the internal flash. Using a hair tie, you can keep it in upright position without fear of breaking it.
Took some party pictures the other day in the nearly pitch black, just bouncing it off my hand (high and dark ceiling) to get some quite usable results.
Thanks, Jamie. And for the useful tip, too.
Thank you for all of your reviews! I enjoy every single one of them. I upgraded from the GX85 to the GX9 and I absolutely love it. I found the GX9 grip to be just slightly bigger, which made it perfect for me. It came with the 12-60, but I sold that lens in favor of the 14-140. I do a lot of hiking, and the GX9 with the 14-140 is the perfect combination of size, versatility, and image quality. I can take a landscape shot at 14, or zoom in to 140 for flowers and birds.
Glad you like the reviews, Shane, thanks. I've always liked the 14-140 because it doesn't ditch performance to get the zoom range. It's actually one of the most consistent across the range, in fact, in spite of the 10x ratio. On a GX9, itself a very compact but nonetheless versatile camera, they make a formidable combo for sheer practicality.
I had 12-60 lens too but while I know some photographers find it ideal, I found myself not using it and using the 14-140 instead. On a couple of days in Paris not for photography purposes, I used it on my (then) GX80 and felt much more comfortable having that long telephoto end, something I use a lot for pictorial perspective purposes . All that and you don't even need a dedicated camera bag!
i dont mean to be off topic but does anybody know a method to log back into an Instagram account..?
I was dumb lost my password. I love any tricks you can offer me
@Deacon Felix Thanks for your reply. I got to the site through google and Im waiting for the hacking stuff now.
Looks like it's gonna take a while so I will get back to you later with my results.
@Deacon Felix it worked and I now got access to my account again. I am so happy:D
Thanks so much, you saved my account !
@Andrew Ernest Glad I could help xD
"...Panasonic was using a random password generator to name its cameras." 😂
🙂
Great review. It appears that Panasonic really listened to photographers before coming out with the G9 and GX9. Two wonderful cameras.
Yes - and they make a good double act too, main camera plus backup or street/ carry around camera used alone.
as a g7 user and fan, i welcome your insights. thank you for the effort and the sharing. of course, i do wish that panasonic had offered a headphone port. i am an appreciative subscriber. thumbs up.
That tilting EVF animation brought me back to my childhood and stop-frame animation from Jason & The Argonauts LOL. Well done!
Yes, that's where I got the idea from!
Great review as always David. I really look forward to your reviews.
I still love my gx8. I tend to stick with what I’ve got until it fails or something really outstanding comes along. It’s not been very nice here with constant rain. Only got out yesterday very cold but got a couple of nice shots. Happy shooting.
The GX8 was something of a one-off for Panasonic, it seems. It has the lovely EVF and the 20Mp sensor, so really there's no reason to change it. Few photographers use cameras at the extremes of their capabilities and its the extremes that get the improvement so for most photography there's no difference between a GX8 and a G9. Glad you like the reviews, thanks.
David I always am looking forward to your reviews. Please do reviews on the 3 new f/1.2 Olympus lenses !!
I normally buy and then sell the stuff I review so that I can say exactly what I like but the f/1.2 are so expensive it's not economic. I'll ask ePHOTOzine if they can help but Olympus are very unhelpful to minnow like me. Glad you like the reviews, Ali, thanks.
David Thorpe it always makes me wonder how come you are not bigger on YT. But then again maybe because there is fewer users of MFT than Sony, Canon or Nikon.
Marketing has ALWAYS been Olympus' weakest trait! And it still continues to anchor them at the bottom. The 4/3rd system was so so capable but only because of or lack of good marketing, it never really got hold.
Now we have the µ4/3rd system and if it wasn't for what it is, I am sure it would've died even before becoming popular, forget about competing with other brand names.
Hey Olympus, send Mr. Thorpe some 1.2 primes to review.
It's worth a try!
I dont really care about Digital cameras, instead I just come for the entertainment value, the calm voice, the unique camera representations, and the passion for a system that produces amazing cameras that are not seen as an option by many due to some dissimilarities to other systems.
More praise there than I think I deserve - thanks so much, Kai.
Thanks again for sharing your expert view again with us David. I own the GX( and I love t. I even love the swifle Viewfinder a lot I love that to. The GX9 has nice features but should be named GX90 Although perfoming better than the GX8 (not weird as it is a newer camera) it is not a worthy successor in my opinion to small, less robust not sealed and inferior viewfinder.
I hope that Panasonic brings a true successor for the GX8 in the future ( like you once said Pen F was desgined by a Technician the GX8 by a photographer).
That said I am very happy with my GX8. Though I am considering to buy a second camera for my wife. She likes taking photo's too and now does that with a TZ71 . It was a bit of a failure to buy from todays perspective. I bought the TZ71 before GX as an always in the pocket camera.
Today Smartphones serve that purpose. The main thing that is irritating is the electronic zoom, too far too, short and always to slow.
A second camera my be smaller but the GX) is to expensive. I was considering an OLY EM10 but I guess GX 80 is less confusing wile the menu structure is similar.
I would love to hear your opinion on the GX9 being or not being a worthy successor for the GX8.
Just another question. You compared Nocticron 42,5 wiht Lumix 42,5 and preferred the Lumix (not better than the Leica but smaller and better priced) How is that with the Leica 25mm vs the Lumix 25mm The Leica costs € 465. For that price I can buy a Lumix 25mm for € 155 and a Lumix 42.5 for € 322. Total costs almost the same but I have to nice primes?
I know the Leica is better…. But that much?
.
The 25mm f/1.4 is definitely better than the f/1.7 for sharpness. It's one the sharpest of all Micro Four Thirds lenses in fact and totally usable at f/1.4. Whether you'd really see much difference in sharpness in practise is another matter. It's noiser in use than the f/1.7 and a bit slower to focus, too. The GX9, I don' think it has anything to do with the GX8 other than the apparent one of the model number, it's an update to the GX80/85. I doubt Panasonic will bring out an upgraded GX8 at all. Personally, with the price of the Leiza 25mm, I'd buy the 25 and 42.5 though if I had the f/1.4 I certainly wouldn't get rid of it.
I adore Panasonic but you're so right, the naming system is a complete mess! Love the review, I'm really intrigued by the GX9 it looks wonderful. I was considering a Gx camera to replace my second camera. If this had a mic input I think I'd already have ordered one
They always hold something back to encourage buying something more expensive!
David Thorpe so true!
It’s interesting to note that in its home country of Japan, the GX9 is called the GX7 Mark III, and the GX80 (aka GX85) is the GX7 Mark II. They made the naming madness export-only!
I agree totally. Just bought this camera for my wife. We did a fair bit of shopping around, and found the nomenclature confusing. Still, we got there in the end. I have an FZ1000 and love it to bits, and found the similar menu system made life easier.
thats with everything David makes me so sick to my stomage with drones its the same
I always thought the higher frame rate the better in terms of continuous shooting. Then I did a couple sporting events and realized I had way too many shots that were the same and too many in general. I think I'm fine with 4-6fps and not the 8.5 my camera is capable of. So I find it less of a selling point for new cameras that can do 15 (even 60!!) fps, I just think of how insane that would be to organize and go through all those photos.
The lack of mic jack on this camera is ridiculous.
I just got a G85, and it's pretty incredible.
The lack of mic input is to encourage you to buy a G85, as you have done, Daniel :-) I think a lot of these things are marketeer rather than engineering led.
Great video as always 👍Just wondering whether you intend to keep your GM1?
Great videos, thanks for sharing! At 4:00, “the GX9 and the G9 is about as good as it gets for micro four thirds” about seals the deal for me. I have had my G9 for more than a year a year now and it is fantastic (replaced my G7), but was looking for something smaller for street use. I had a point and shoot ZS19 years ago that I had before the G7, then I got the ZS100 which was much better but not good enough. I have been trying to decide between the GX85 with the 12-32 kit lens versus the GX9 with the 12-60 kit lens for $200 more. After watching this video, I’m leaning towards the GX9. Thanks!
Thanks! My two cameras are a G9 and the GX9. They complement one another nicely because of the size and design and like you I use them for different purposes. The G85 (or G90) is excellent too but I'd probably choose that more if it was the only camera I was going to have.
Always love your reviews.
Do you think they'll ever upgrade my beloved GX8? It feels like GX8 type is gone for good - which would be a shame. To me it's the perfect balance of form & function.
No, I don't think they'll upgrade it. With the GX9, they seem to have organised some sense into their naming system si if there was to eb an upgrade for the GX8 it would have to have a different name. It looks to me like they have sidelined it. I could see a logic to upgrading the GX8 - the GX9 serves as a rangefinder style G80, a new GX8, whatever its name would serve as a rangefinder style G9. That would leave the GH5 model range intact and cover all needs. However, Panasonic don't even know that I exist, let alone care what I say so I'm no help!
That's a bummer, but I get the same impression. It seems like they've sidelined it. What a pity.
Well, I guess I'll just wait and see. It's not like my GX8 broke on GX9 release day ;).
Thanks for your input, David!
P.S. Besides the fact that it affects a GX8 upgrade I'm all for better naming & better structure. I don't think Pana (or every other manufacturer) needs more than 3-5 Camera types. Anything beyond that is in my opinion for the specialty market.
YES! Been waiting for your review on this!
:-)
Nice job has usual great review with those smooth vocals
😊
Thank you, good review as always. So I stay with the GX85, as it is called where I live, most of all as I got the G9 as well. But you are right, a G9 with a GX9 as a second body is pretty much the best m43 first and second body combination available today or for any system. The charm of m43 again, an also very nice combination of any Sony a7/9 with any of their a6_000s is somehow comparable, but all your focal lengths change with the smaller body etc.
Best thing about the GX9 is the grip that also fits on the GX80 :-) I'd like to have that viewfinder and the focus switch on my GX80 though.
I haven't tried the grip. Must take a look - thanks Tea Jay!
nice review as always David. - I was disappointed with this release - nothing but a small updated to the GX85 - I was expecting a GX8 update - with a nice EVF - not the little one on the GX85 - GX8 was a bit fat - but nice button layout -
but I really think the GX85 and GX9 are a bit to small - the Fuji X-Pro2 size is as large I would like but I feel the GX9 is to small -
Yes stills focus with Panasonic is fantastic - but as video is as good as it is I think the tracking focus is lacking in video - they really need hybrid with phase detect -
I really think Panasonic will suffer big time from not having Phase Detect for video -
I have the GM1 GM5 and GX1 GX7 GX8 GX85 and Zs100 and LX10 and LX100 - so no one can say I do not like Panasonic :)
will consider getting the G9 soon -
But I have Fuji X-t1's and X-t2 and X-pro2 as well as the Sony A7 III - and yes I do not like their interfaces etc - but how much better the tracking focus in video is on Fuji and Sony -
I just can't figure out this stubbornness with Panasonic - yes their single focus is awesome and that in low light as well - but I would sacrifice 1 stop in low light for good tracking focus in video
The G9 is supposedly better with tracking - but it is still Contrast based - and not all lenses compatible with their DFD -
Video folks are screaming at Panasonic to improve tracking focus -
Panasonic has brilliant video features int he Gh5 and GH5s - and awesome IBIS in the GH5 and G9 - but tracking focus just not usable - many are moving to Sony - and yes they do not have articulated LCD - but many are just buying LCD monitors in hotshoe to solve the problem.
And yes battery life is short compared to new competition -
Seems Panasonic is abandoning the GX8 upgrades and that class - a class in lie with the Sony A6300 - A6500 and Olympus Em5 - the $1000-1300 price range - my feeling is that they just do not want to compete with the Sony -
So yes the G9 looks impressive - but being a m43 at $1700 when the Sony FF A7 III is at $2000 and the Sony APS-C A6500 is at $1200 then one has to think twice -
I think the price for the G9 should be $1400 - $1500 - an realistically Panasonic and Oly will be loosing ground as Sony is being aggressive in price with their new A7 III and lowering the price of their A6300 and A6500 and there is a new A6700 coming soon - ( yes folks need to do the math on buying sony lenses )
My prediction is that sadly Panasonic will drop most in sales in the mirrorless market - prime reason is no Phase Detect -
The GX9 just does not impress in 2018 - a marriage between Sony backlit sensor and Panasonics Touch and interface and Fuji's colors would be fantastic :)
The video focusing on the GH5 and G9 is transformed by using a 120° shutter rather than 180°. I agree about the phase detect, sooner or later Panasonic will need to come up with something as good or preferably better. PD on the Olympus E-M1 Mkll is better but far from head and shoulders above the GH5 mainly due to the slowing effect of mounting the PD pixels on the sensor meaning the read speed can't be higher than the sensor. PD really needs a dedicated array off sensor to work best.
As regards the pricing, I don't equate price and performance in quite the same way you do, I take more account of the size and weight of the equipment including lenses. In other words I am paying for what I require for my needs rather than always looking for best technical performance. That's not a criticism. You could make a Nikon D5 the same price as a G9 but I still do't want one for the reasons outlined. Interesting take, thanks Jon.
Hi David, Just been watching your review on the GX9, I have been recently watching all your reviews on the micro four thirds system and found them to be fair comprehensive and wonderfully presented, I see myself as an amateur/hobbyist photographer and currently using a Nikon 610 and various lenses , my main lens is a Tamron 24-70 2.8 all very heavy as you can imagine , thats why i am about to invest in the m43rd system for the sheer portability of it and also have been so impressed at the image quality which is just as good as the digital dslr also the Olympus and Panasonic lenses are very reasonably priced in comparison to say Nikon and Canon , even some of the panasonic fast lenses are great value. as i do also a lot of street photography the 2 camera,s I,m deciding between is the GX9 and the Olympus om-d 5 mk2 .
I wonder David if you were in my position which one you would buy.
Thank you,
and keep up your reviews.
Hi Alan. Glad you find the videos helpful! I like the E-M5 II but the GX9 would be preferable for street photography. The rangefinder form factor seems to suit it better and the tilting rather than articulated monitor too. It also has the same IQ as the newest top range cameras whereas the Olympus still has the 16Mp one. Plus, you can charge the battery in the camera - handier than it might sound at first.
A compact and excellent image can be taken to stimulate sensibility.
Glad to see this one got past the censorship police David.
GX9 has a nice accessory grip option at an affordable price as well. Nearly half the price of the PEN-F's. As a PEN fan this camera appeals to me as a real upgrade to my E-P5. Tilt EVF (Won't miss that great function on the VF-4), 4k and with panasonic lenses..DFD autofocus...and 5 axis of course. May give it a whirl.
I don't think it would disappoint you. Panasonic have done the right thing in keeping the size down too.
Good video David! I just picked up the Panasonic G9 and I love it! deciding now between the gh5s or two black magic design pocket cameras when or if they come out in September.
Thanks! G9 is great. It's the ease of use I like so much.
I had to get used to the sensitive shutter but the camera is really good!
I still find myself firing two frames instead of one - annoying! I wonder if it could be altered in firmware?
Thanks for the Review, David! I have a Oly E-M5 mark 2 and a couple of good lenses. Both Olympus and Panasonic . Do you Think GX9 would be a upgrade for me in image quality? I want to stay with the smaller cameras. Im also considering the Pen-F but Im a bit courious to try a Panasonic camera. BR Magnus
You're welcome! Yes, the image quality of the GX9 is better than the Olympus, mainly due to the removal of the low pass filter and the extra pixels. It's not enough to make the change worthwhile on its own in my view but many would disagree. The Pen F is lovely but you are paying a lot of money for the build quality and retro design. The GX9 represents better value for money as a camera. One thing you would notice about Panasonics is how much easier to use the menu system is. The Olympus has a better EVF, though and the two cameras are completely different in feel.
Ok, thanks a lot for the answer. 👍🙂
Wonderful video as always.
Thanks!
hmmm yet another great review,having me thinking about upgrading from my gx80, mostly for the 20mp sensor and the focus switching ..hard one
Yes, it's not a must-do upgrade but the bigger sensor and some other attributes are well worth having.
Thank you.
You're welcome!
Thanks, David! :)
Love to see some pics shot with the GX9 & Olympus 40-150 f2.8 pro lens - it looks like an awesome Combo set up! I’ve seen surfing pics shot with that pro lens & T C but on an Olympus body. Jaw dropping 😱🎥🎉
Thanks for the video David it was helpful to know it is more of an incremental upgrade over the gx85.. also, any chance you might be reviewing any of the Olympus f1.2 pro series primed any time soon?
I'd like to, Kim, but Olympus are utterly unhelpful tp minnows like me. Even ePz can't get hold of them. Normally I buy stuff to review but the price of these lenses makes that impractical.
David Thorpe hey David, I completely understand about the prices! But why on earth would they not send this type of equipment to a well regarded reviewer! They might need some glasses because that’s pretty short sighted if you ask me!
I think so too, Kim. While I don't have the following of the big RUclips hitters, all my work is concerning Micro Four Thirds. But big corporations don't have time for detail like that. :-(
I thought the numeral digits in the GX line denoted the level of the camera. GXnnn (GX850) were the entry levels much like olympus em10. Then midtier are GXnn (GX85) comparable to olympus em5 and then the single digit ones GXn (GX8) are the top ones similar to the olympus em1.
It's one way of making sense of it, I suppose but among the Gs and GHs still confusing (to me, at least).
David Thorpe I agree. The incremental upgrade/updates applied with each release is part of what makes it confusing... But your info about the Gs and GHs was helpful. I had no idea on those since I was only looking at the small bodies. Stay awesome!
😀
For video sadly only the GX8 has a mic input
I'm new to MF3 and absolutely love your channel - thanks for the videos, David. The GX9 is the camera I'm leaning toward buying. I shoot mostly landscapes and architecture at twilight, and am very much a street style minimalist - nothing too big, including lenses! I'm also considering the LX100 II because it simplifies the lens issue, and is very portable. Neither are weatherproofed - ugh! I actually like the tilting screen and tilting EVF, which shies me away from the LX100 II, but I like the dials and rings on that one more. Why can't Panasonic just make the perfect camera instead of forcing us to compromise?!
Could you please review the LX100 II? And I'd love your advice for an art photographer who abandoned the Canon 5D and Contax G2 in favor of the iPhone, who is now being lured into the MF3 world thanks partly to your channel :)
I'll see if I can get hold of one. I liked the last one and often recommended it to friends.
Nice video, thanks
Great, I was waiting for this video: I entered a camera store to purchase a Pen F but found this side by side and now I'm convinced anymore. Could you pleas put these camera side by suide for a comparison? they are so similar the choice is not obvious (setting aside the price component)
I haven't got the Pen F any more - had to sell it to fund other review items. In terms of overall performance both cameras do a similar job. The EVF on the Pen is bigger but other than that the GX9 is just as good. You pay a lot of money for the satisfying feel and look of the Pen - it really is a nice camera to use. But in terms of performance, the Panasonic is a better buy with enough left over for an extra lens.
Great review David! What is the lens to the right at 7:49 recommend travel setup? On camera is the 12-32, but the other one is???
Hi Lyndon - thanks! That's the 35-100 f/3.5-5.6 zoom. It telescopes like the 12-32 and is ridiculously small but as sharp as any full size lens.
I don't understand why a company like Panasonic, would "upgrade" a model and remove a fundamental benefit like a fully articulated screen that the GX8 came with. In that respect the GX9 is more of an upgrade to the GX80, (as suggested) than a newer version of the GX8 as the naming convention suggests.
I think Panasonic really screwed up the naming. The GX9 is (as you say) not an upgrade to the GX8 at all but the GX80. It doesn't look to me as if the GX8 will have a successor at all. Shame!
Ahhh, everytime Panasonic announces a new camera I just hope it'd be a GM, smallest ever (or not bigger than GM1), fully featured-with flash, IBIS, poppy up EVF like sony- and If they need extra space for IBIS etc, they could increase the depth of the grip and it would even fit a better battery... Sorry David, I don't know where else to make this suggestion for panasonic. What would you like on a new GM?
Much like you, bring it up to date with IBIS and , especially, improve the controls. I am still surprised that the GMs didn't sell well. They were appreciated by people already familiar with Micro Four Thirds but I think maybe people wanting to upgrade from a phone camera thought that because they looked like a compact, they'd perform like one. Wrong but enough to limit sales., unfortunately.
David, I hope you're doing well. I recently got rid of my GX7 due to a dirty sensor that I couldn't get clean because the debris was actually lodged underneath the glass covering the sensor. Apparently there are others that have had that issue with the GX7. Anyway, that was somewhat besides the point.
My question is about how greats that GX7 was as a compliment to my well loved G85. I LOVED having that 2 camera setup. Less lens changing and not at all burdensome to carry the extra body. The small, rangefinder style was perfect for adorning my 20mm f/1.7 or Laowa 7.5mm f/2 while my G85 usually had my 14-140mm attached.
Anyway, finally my question: Which MFT rangefinder style camera has the best viewfinder and would be a good replacement for my GX7? I found the GX7 perfect except the issue I described and also the viewfinder was not clear or large enough especially in bright light or trying to focus the super wide 7.5mm. Also, I often enjoyed using the flip up viewfinder. So although not essential, I prefer not to give up that feature
Thoughts?
I haven't got much in the way of thoughts on that, Gil, because there's not much to have thoughts on. The only rangefinder style Micro Four Thirds cameras available now are the Panasonic GX9 and Olympus Pen F. The Pen F is actually discontinued but I see that there are some supplies left if you hunt round. The Pen F has the best viewfinder, not particularly good for its price but its not flip-up and the camera is very expensive due to its rather good build quality. The GX9 is very similar to your GX80, same EVF but, like the GX7, it tilts. It also has the 20Mp sensor. So those are the choices. I'd suggest that mixing of makes, with their different menus and controls makes for a less than smooth user experience and the GX9 would be your best bet. Unfortunately it has the same EVF as previous models so is not the greatest, as you will already know from your GX80. I'd suggest you get another GX80 (still available new) to make a pair or, better, a GX9 which is similar but with some worthwhile enhancements. Shame the GX8 isn't around new. It is bigger but has a superb tilting EVF. Although listed on the Panasonic web site, it isn't available there but maybe you could find a dealer who has one or a good used one. If you could put up with the extra physical size, you'd love the GX8 I'm sure.
@@DavidThorpeMFT Excellent! Thank you so much! Super helpful info as always! I had been wondering about the GX8's EVF. I think I'll look for a deal on a clean used one. I Actually mis-typed originally: My current primary camera is a G85 not GX85. So, I'm looking to compliment my bigger body plus a smaller rangefinder. It's too bad the GX9 doesn't have a better viewfinder for the high price and also too bad the GX85 doesn't have an AF switch.
Thanks again!
@@gg48gg You're welcome, Gil. The GX8 is bigger than the GX80 but if you can overlook that it should be just what you are looking for.
David, thanks, I enjoyed this. (N.B. I find grasping your written into the picture comments while the audio goes on about something else entirely pretty demanding.)
Re GX8 vs 9 as they are currently almost the same price: You said somewhere "they are very different cameras", could you please enlarge on that a little? How do you find the IQ between 20 MP with vs w/o filter? How does the Ibis compare? Anything else which would make you prefer the GX8 (other than the EVF, I heard you there)? What about the famous shutter-shock - no probs if you forego the 14-140?
Your comments would be highly appreciated. Thanks again!
The IQ difference between the cameras is quite small and you'd need results side by side to really appreciate them. For me, the dropping of the low pass filter makes the results a bit more sparky, to use a technical term :-). Cleaner would describe it.
I have come across shutter shock a fair few times with the GX8 and not only with the 14-140. I'm always aware of the possibility. It's not that serious, actually and is only noticeable at higher viewing sizes but I find it a relief not to have to worry about it at all with the GX9 and its whispering shutter. I use ESHTR with both cameras but I don't like feeling I need to use it.
The IBIS on the GX9 is considerably better, the body alone being equivalent to Dual IS on the GX8 (with a compliant lens, of course)as far as I can tell. With a compliant lens on the GX9, stabilization is to a high standard and as good as you need. I can use my old 80s Nikon 300mm on the GX9 and the IBIS gives me sharp shots down to around 1/80th - and I have shaky hands.
It's partly the size that makes the two cameras feel different, plus tilting v articulated monitor and the EVF sizes. The GX8 would feel entirely at home on a tripod where the GX9 would seem out of place. It's largely subjective, I suppose because they both function well. But if I were doing technical subjects, for example, architecture, The GX8 would be a more efficient camera for the job and feel suited to it. The GX9 not so much, largely because of the EVF but also the much less versatile monitor.
The two stranded videos, I understand what you say. I want to get so much into the videos but that can make them much too long. So I try to do two things at once. I don't have an answer for that but I do note that people rarely watch a video over 5 minutes long all the way through. More thought required on my part, I suppose.
I see, so no compelling reason to get the newer model and forego the brilliant EVF.
How about the stabilizer and shutter-shock?
The shutter shock doesn't often appear and the GX8 stabilization is perfectly good, especially with a Dual IS compatible lens. If the size of the GX8 suits you, I'd stay with it.
David, thanks for your exhaustive answer. @first I didn't see there was more text beyond "would describe it", which is why I rephrased my question re Ibis and shutter-shock. Now I can see it's was all there, sorry for this. I'm having trouble w/ this bl***y "revamped" youtube anyway.
Re the video length: I am surprised. I mean the Northrups are much longer than 5', so is Chris Nicolls who now joined DPReview, so is Jason Lanier to mention a couple of people I watch. And while your style isn't exactly meandering, it is thoughtful, exhaustive, trying to x-reference, give examples, so how could you be done in 5'? And reading the rather glowing comments - not only to this here - I'd say these people value that style and take the time needed. (But still they cannot process information heard AND read at the same time ... or is that just me :-O )
It's unlikely to be just you, Stef. It is something I will think about because my aim is to make the videos informative but still easy to watch. Maybe I could speed them up :-) Which reminds me of the Woody Allen story about how he had been taking lessons in speed reading. "I read War and Peace in 20 minutes. Something to do with Russia, i believe".
Got the gx9 since the first day available in store, like it a lot so far. The grip although seems to be very similar to the one on gx85 but it’s actually much more comfortable. The evf is not very good compared to other cameras such as penf, Leica CL, xpro2 etc but it’s a lot cheaper than those( it costs about the same as a xe3 here in Hong Kong) although I’m definitely willing to pay more for a better evf.
Yes, the EVF is the single weakest aspect of the GX9 though in fairness I do find it perfectly usable.
Hi David, thanks for reviewing this. I am torn between G80 and GX9. I like the EVF, tilting screen of G80 but wonder if the image quality and colours are better with GX9? At least that's what I have been reading that panasonic has improved colours with GX9. Is that your definite observation too? I mainly plan to use for travel pictures. I have a full frame sony but looking for something compact. Thanks
The colour output of the GX9 is very pleasing, as is the overall image quality, up to the best that Micro Four Thirds can offer. It seems to sparkle a bit more than the G80 is the only way i can put it, these things being so subjective. As a second camera to your Sony, I'd have thought the GX9 was a better choice being a bit smaller and handier than the G80. And with the 12-32 and 35-100 lenses as shown in the video, just about perfect as a travel camera.
Genious, thanks David. I might go with a GX9, 12-32 and 20/1.7. I used to have a 20 with a GX85 before. Found that focal length and aperture quite handy. Or have a 2 prime lens kit- Olympus 12/2 and Panny 20/1.7
You'll enjoy researching and making the decision, that's for sure!
Hi David, firstly thanks for the great videos, I really like your understated style!
I have a gx7 and am thinking of upgrading to either gx9 or em5 ii, which is available at a very very good price now it's been updated. Unfortunately I live somewhere that olympus doesn't seem to sell, so haven't been able to try it in hand. What do you think?
Hi Mr K - glad you like the videos, thanks. I think I'd go for the Panasonic as it is a much more up to date camera than the Olympus. The downside is the smaller EVF but its perfectly usable. The cameras are similar in size but very different in style so the only definitive way to choose would be to try them both for feel. Since you can't do that and there is very little to dislike about the GX9, it's the safer bet. If cost is a big consideration, I'd buy the Olympus of it was £150 or equivalent less than the GX9.
@@DavidThorpeMFT hi, thanks for the reply and advice! The em5 ii is exactly £150 cheaper... So I have a tricky decision!
@@mrk5534 If you really like the GX7 now you know how the rangefinder form feels and know the size of the EVF, I'd be inclined to the GX9. If you are unhappy with either of those things, the Olympus and save some money. Personally, 20Mp and 4K video does mean you have all the latest Micro Four Thirds attributes and does future proof you a bit.
Hi David, really been enjoying your videos
As a beginner can I ask for advice please
Given the significant price gap GX80 or GX9 is it worth paying almost double or start with the GX80
I’m thinking go with the GX80 as I’m coming back to photography from a long break. and want to do a little video too
Size and carrying the kit is a major factor for me in addition to price and IQ
I’ve changed my focus from Sony A6000 series to Panasonic and m43 as the lens size looks like a better bet for kit size
Thanks
In most essentials the GX80 and GX9 are the same camera, leaving aside the 20Mp sensor. For practically all photography which is now viewed mainly on screens with occasional prints up to, say, A4, the sensor size difference of 4Mp is not a factor at all. If you have the budget for a GX9, I think you'd do much better to buy a GX80, 12-32 and the 35-100 f/4-f/5.6 small (read tiny) zooms. They don't compromise image quality at all and give a ridiculously compact and capable outfit with dual stabilization and fast AF. Even more, you'll enjoy using the outfit because it handles well and feels very good in the hand.
David Thorpe thanks for the quick response I found the dual kit lens with the 12-32 and the 35-100 and was trying to decide if that was the way to go over say the 18-140 or some primes. I think starting back you’ve helped me make up my mind that the dual lens kit is a great place to start back. I can always build my kit up but yes the versatility of the two will be good
I remember when I first started out my kit consisted of Minolta 7000 with 35-70 and a 70-210. Many Minolta and later Sony bodies having added 28-85, 400, 50. Then stopped for years and am now wanting to start back but the main reason for stopped was size
I’m hoping m43 will help solve that for me and this looks a great place to start.
My photography will be a range of family shots and general purpose
Thanks again
Actually in Japan, the GX80/85 is called GX7 Mark2 and the GX9 is named GX7 Mark3... That makes more sense to me...
Yes, it does make mores sense, I agree. It agrees with the linage of the model.
In addition the Olympus EPL 9 would fit the bill for a small and effective 4/3 camera
Have you had problems getting the viewfinder happily in focus? The diopter never seems to quite get to where things are really clear.
Mine seems clear enough. I just get the on screen information as sharp as possible. I wear bifocals, though, so the screen appearance varies depending on my exact eye positioning. My main problem is that I hate the adjustment, which seems not finely enough gradated and too hard to move. I'd like something that could locked once set, too.
Hi David. I have a EM5ii & thought my next purchase would be a EM5iii or EM1ii but rangefinder style cameras like the GX9 are suddenly appealing to me and I'm shocked by the relative value of the GX9 compared to the EM5iii (& discontinued PEN F) with body only new prices of £450 GX9 and £950+ EM5iii. The specs look similar with 20MP, 4k vid, Phase detect or DFD focusing etc except the EM5iii has bigger EVF which I would miss, articulating LCD (as a stills taker maybe non artic better anyway?) & weather sealing (as a non pro I rarely require). Whilst the GX9 only has 4 stops IS I can team it up with the Leica 12-60 f2.8-4 for Dual IS when I am not using primes. I would buy 2nd hand & keep the EM5ii as backup but this gives an idea of value. Am I missing something?? PS An all black version of the GX9 looks a stealthy black beauty teamed up with Oly 17mm or PL 15mm. Regards, Rich.
pps oly em10iv £650 = 44% more. In M43 : GX9 the Best Bang 4 Buck Black Beauty ;-) ?
No, I don't think you are missing anything. At the current pricing for a body, it's camera that punches well above its price point. In term of Iq, I see nk difference between this and the other 20Mp Micro Four Thirds cameras.
@@DavidThorpeMFT sorry David I meant to ask .. are the SOOC JPEGs on the GX9 as good as Olympus now that Pana have apparently improved them? Thx in advance Rich
@@JeevesTCW In a side by side comparison I prefer sometimes one, sometimes the other. I do think Olympus looks nicer for rustic type landscape colours but I prefer Panasonic for others. I don't think the difference in jpg are a reason for favouring one camera over the other since you can adjust colours to suit yourself. If you shoot RAW the colours are how you want them entirely, of course.
Hello David, the camera is in. The GX9. Charging and I can’t wait. I struggle with getting it to display just one single focus point in the center. I could not get it done on the gx8 and the gx85 now on the gx9 I also move my focus using the viewfinder with my left eye. Is it old fashioned to want to have a single center fixed focus and need I learn the tricks or can it still be set on a camera like this.
I use a single box in the centre all the time nearly. If you hit the left cursor button you can select the AF mode there. If you touch the box, highlighting it, a press on the Disp. button will centre it. If you go through the Menu you will find Operation Lock Setting. Turn Touch Screen on. Now assign Operation Lock to the Fn2 button. That button will now toggle the touch screen on and off with one press.
If you want to retain the use of the cursor buttons for ISO, WB etc you can activate the focus box by hitting first the left cursor and then the down cursor. You can then move the box around with the cursors without using the touch screen. As ever, a touch on Disp. will centre it. As soon as you half press the shutter release, the cursor buttons will revert to their designated purposes. Hope that helps, john.
Yes David, this helps a lot. I have send the 140 kit combo back, it was lighter but not portable for edc anymore, replacing my lx7 so I am looking for a body and 17mm now. With your setup I can enjoy a move to m43 as I was hoping. Thanks.
Glad it helped, John.
Is this camera good for table top video? I like the price point, even with 2 or3 lenses it won't break the bank. I am not into Street. If there is a better camera for video please let me know? I love the tilting EVF, that sells it for me. Excellent video review. Thanx
Yes, very good. I use it for my RUclips videos and often shoot in 4K for the 'product' shots, so that I have scope to zoom and pan in Photoshop in post processing. One of the GH5s would be 'better' in terms of having more highly technical technical videocentric adjustments available but I don't need them and the basic IQ of the GX9 is no different anyway. The main reason for buying another Micro Four Thirds camera for video would be for sound, Mic in and headphone sockets, which are lacking in the GX9. Not a factor in table top video, I find :-)
Excellent review. Quick question, from the outset the fuji xe-3 is comparable to the the gx9. What do you think? You don't seem to be a big fuji fan ...... i went through the listings and i have not seen any fuji review. What is exactly that you don't like with them?
Nothing that I don't like at all. I made a decision when I ditched my DSLRs that wanted something as small as possible while providing adequate IQ. APS-C seems a bit of a halfway house to me with Micro Four Thirds hitting the sweet spot. To make my decision, I considered the purpose of the final output. In all the output media that I use, screen or print, there is nothing that would have even full frame make any difference to my end purpose IQ, let alone APS-C. Fuji are great cameras but the system is less mature in terms of lenses and I am loathe to have a camera system for which there is only one major lens maker. Nonetheless, if, after I had sold my DSLRs, some kind soul had given me a set of Fuji equipment, I'd probably be using that now. I'm not that concerned with my tools as long as they do the job.
I'm a little different from other reviewers in that I buy the stuff that I review in the main, so buying Olympus, Panasonic, Fuju, Sony et al would require a much richer man than me! It's a disadvantage in some ways but it does mean that I can say exactly what I think in my reviews. Glad you liked the review, by the way.
Thank you very much once more. As always an honest and very thoughtful opinion. I must tell you that over the last 2-3 months i have watched a lot of videos. Initially i was all over the place in terms of equipment and reviewers. I must tell you that you really stood up with your objective evaluation. This weekend i review my notes and realised that the xe3 was similar in size to the gx9 that is why i wondered. I did not realize the limitation of the lens variety. The options you get from olympus and panasonic is amazing, pro big lenses or good quality compact / light lenses. To be honest a gm5 gx800 body with the gx9/85 capability would be the holly grail for m4/3. The Pen 9 could be interesting. I have decided to go with the m4/3 and you have helped a lot in forming my opinion on the camera and the lenses. Respect.
What can I say? - I'm glad I've been helpful. The reassuring factor in any choice today is that there is no bad one, it's just that some choices are better suited to the individual than others. Happy shooting!
great review David. Now I am using Olympus EPL3 and want to switch to Lumix because of significant price drop in my country. But I still confuse between GX85 and GX9 which one is more preferable in terms of feature and price (worth to buy). Waiting for your suggestion. Thanks
The GX9 has the bigger sensor which is nice to have but not essential. It also has a smaller EVF than the GX85 which you may find off-putting. I don't but some photographers do. In terms of features there's not a lot in it and in fact the main difference is the body design, the G85's DSLR style as opposed to the GX9's rangefinder type body. My personal preference is the GX9 because the body is that much smaller and thus I'm more likely to keep it with me. There's a G90 update to the G85 now but although it has the 20Mp sensor like the GX9 It's not a must have by any means. So, overall, the GX9 but if you can make sure the EVF is satisfactory for you.
@@DavidThorpeMFT thanks for your reply David, but i want to compare between GX9 with GX85/GX80 not G85. What do you think? I love GX85 for its compact size and cheaper price
@@y4yit484 Sorry! All these *****y terse names! That's much simpler! If you already had a GX85, I'd say don't bother with the GX9 but starting out it's a bit more complicated. If you value the 20Mp sensor and swivelling EVF, neither of which I do particularly, the GX9 is better. The in camera charging of the GX9 is handy but, again, nor crucial.
In the UK right now the GX80 is about £200 cheaper than the GX9 and that makes it the much more attractive buy than the GX9. If I was going go spend the extra money, putting it towards a new lens would be better idea.
@@DavidThorpeMFT I got the point, so I will go for GX80. Thanks for your suggestion
Love it! How many stills do u take for the stop motion to look so smooth?
:-) Great to hear that! I expect to shoot 25 for each second. You can do less but it looks jerky. I set the camera up on a tripod and then operate it sitting beside the subect from my phone using the Stop Motion facility on the G9 or whatever. It's tome consuming but fun.
David Thorpe thanks, I will give that a try.
Great review as always. I wont be upgrading my gx80 for one. Only improvement is sensor, which is not massive and I dislike the tilty EVF and poorly implemented EC dial. Nice camera though, just not if you have its predecessor.
Thanks Sion - yes, if you have a GX80 the GX9 is not a must have upgarde.
Hey David, so per our discussion I ended up getting a great deal on a like new gx850, Which I plan to just use for a take everywhere camera for mainly photo, and video of my kids. I still like to pick up either a GM1 or a GM5 just to have. But in searching out, I had a question hopefully you could answer. What is the smallest MFT camera in the Panasonic line that has an external mic jack?
Thanks!
Hi Adam - that's be the G80/85 I reckon.
I got the G100 for street photography etc. Exept for the IBIS whats different , better or / and worse on GX9 ?
Watched this video; signed up for your blog; bought your Kindle edition of The Panasonic GX9 Menu System Simplified, but I still have a question. I can reset file number to zero and create folder for camera to store images, but can I add a number prefix to the image names? I am trying to avoid having duplicate file names with images previously created with my GX85.
Hi David - if I understand you correctly, go to _Setup->Folder / File Settings->File Name setting_ and you can set a custom file name there. The name will always start with a P but I have mine set so that my file names are PGX90001 and so on.
Nice Brompton!
I'm still waiting for the Brompton Four Thirds. It'll have two lenses fitted with rollers in place of wheels and the brake levers will act as aperture/ shutter speed controls. The rest of the design has yet to be decided, I am told.
For the gx7/gx85/gx9 owners out there:
Does anyone else feel like the series' grips have been getting worse? The loss of the slope at the top of the grip made the gx9 less comfortable for me.
Does anyone think it odd that the lx100 has engraved dials, but none of the interchangeable bodies do? How would would people feel about a gx body with no mode dial?
How should panasonic deal with the fallout of the gx8? They made a premium rangefinder, and it didn't sell. At the time, they removed the focus switch from the gx85, but now put engraved exposure compensation and focus switch on the gx9. Should they keep reheating the gx7 or try to make something in between the gx8 and gx85?
I feel like a well done, and well priced gx body has the potential to outsell the a6xxx series. Thoughts?
I'd have though a GX in the form of a rangefinder type body based on but maybe smaller than the G9 would be popular. But I thought the GX8 would too. Anyone?
@@DavidThorpeMFT I'd agree, if it weren't for the dpreview shuttershock scare, it may have sold better
What about the new monochrome L mode? I would have loved to see the pictures you would’ve taken with that feature
Sorry about that! I can't cover everything or the videos get too long but I'll try to shoot a few and do a short video on it.
Thanks David for wonderful review..
I am GX85 owner, and have been thinking of should I or should not I upgrade to GX9.
Panasonic said they improved JPEG color especially sky and skin tone on this 20mp sensor.
How do you compare image quality of GX9 over GX85?
GX10 might be 2-3 years away though..
Thank you.
The GX9's extra pixels don't come at any cost in noise so overall the IQ is better. You have a choice of AWB, one warmer, one cooler. Both are richer in appearance than the GX80s and I'm inclined to the straight AWB rather than the cooler AWBc. The difference here is fairly subtle but definitely apparent side by side. For myself, the GX9 just looks better, less clinical than the GX80 and certainly as nice as the Olympus rendering. My personal opinion is that it is't enough to warrant the upgrade on its own but I reckon a lot of photographers seeing two JPGs side by side might well disagree with me.
Thanks David.. My GX9 will be arrived next week, and I plan to use both GX9 and GX85 together.. Hope to see improve in JPEG color with it..
I think you will - don't forget it has AWBc as well as AWB. AWBc gives a colder, more traditionally Panasonic tone, AWB is a bit warmer.
Thanks David.. I got GX9 for few days now, and used it along side my GX85.. Below are 4 key things that make GX9 more enjoyable and capable over GX85, to my style of photography..
1. JPEG color looks noticably more beautiful, more detail and sharper..
2. I can adjust Exposure compensation when using M Mode ! This is great since I can have almost all fully control of setting (expect for ISO, but I can set max ISO though). In GX85, I can't adjust EC in M Mode..
3. With a bit different front and back grip, the heavier GX9 has surprisingly better ergonomic, at least in my hand.. Now I can comfortably hold bigger lenses like 12-35/2.8with more comfort.. Perhaps GX9's extra 24g heavier makes it a bit less head-heavy with heavy lenses..
4. With nearly 20% more resolution, GX9's LCD is much much more beautiful and clearer than GX85..
Regarding menu, GX9 is a bit more complex (more lines, more steps, a bit harder to page up/down), but new GX9's My Menu page comes in handy..
One thing I noticed, but yet confirmed or tested, was that GX9 may has even slightly better low light performance than GX85.. I am more comfortable using GX9 at ISO3200, while at ISO1600 with GX85 in low light.. Perhaps better GX9's output makes me bias here :)
Overall, I am super highly satisfied with GX9, and will continue to use GX85 as second camera.. Both use the same battery, so they're good complimentary..
Thanks for your review for helping me make decision..
I don't seem to have replied to your first post - sorry! I normally reply to all messages so i don't know how I missed yours. Glad the review helped Ekasak. If you were happy with 16Mp, downsampling from 20 to 16 can improve the noise performance even more.
With EC on manual, how does that differ from just changing the aperture, ISO or shutter speed? That's what EC does. One of the nice things about the 20Mp sensor was that it did give more pixels without increasing the noise. and I agree, the JPG output is very pleasing now. As was my GX80, the GX9 is one of my most used cameras now.
Good review but then again, yours always are. I must confess that I wondered why they bothered, it seems very incremental but Panasonic (4k with everything) probably felt that they had to do something further down their product range having rather peaked with the GH5, GH5s and G9.
Thanks, John. Yes, I agree they are rather forced into 'upgrading' their models to keep the interest up and the sales flowing. I find it hard to see what they can do now since the IQ has probably gone as far as it can with the 20Mp sensor and lack of low pass filter. I wonder if they are working on a new sensor type - that seems the only big new thing they could so. I read stuff about it but it all seems pretty far in the future. They can probably get 120fps 6K another stop or two of stabilization but those sort of things are just circus tricks as far as I'm concerned. I'd like 24Mp with two stops better noise as an aim but I'm not really bothered. So what now?
David, yes in a way it seems to me that the ICL camera industry is in a bit of an odd spot currently with both Sony and Panasonic having rather "over performed" technically in recent years. Where do they go next in a volume market that has fallen considerably in numbers of boxes shifted whilst the really clever technical stuff comes with a big price tag and likely niche numbers in terms of sales volumes.
Strangely for Canon and Nikon, the way ahead is crystal clear, high performance mirrorless ! Canon has already mapped out their 'consumer end' mirrorless offerings in the M Series which the recent M50 seems to indicate that they will upgrade but keep around/under the £1,000 price point, all they need now do is to match Sony at the full frame end of the market.
Where I think Panasonic still has a major edge is around the GH5 type package which is still stunning value for money platform for those people into serious video and film making.
You're right about Canon and Nikon. They can still trade on brand recognition gained over the course of half a century and for them starting out on electronic cameras gives them a direction. I think Panasonic will survive OK because they are such a widespread consumer business and they are innovative too, so that advances in digital imaging can be applied to their ENG cameras etc. I hope Olympus survive but they seem the most vulnerable. Interesting times!
The new organic sensor should add more depth and a film like look. This will save u4/3. If that is not ready in time, an u4/3 X-Trans sensor can do the same. Or else...
I need to get up to speed on those!
So does the gx9 have i.s. video lock and the gx85/gx80 does not? I noticed that you said it was using i.s. lock and that is a huge thing for video. Just wondering if this camera would make a great B camera for video for the G9 or GH5...
Yes, the GX9 does have I.S. Lock. And yes, it'd make a very good B camera for video. It obviously doesn't have the bells and whistles of the GH5 but for straightforward video it is excellent. Many people prefer the tilting monitor for video, too. Bear in mind that it doesn't have mic or headphone in/outs.
I’m looking to buy my first MFT system. Mostly for private and family stuff but also street photography. Is it enough to buy the GX80 or is the GX9 a safer bet?
Either will do the job. The main difference in practice is the 20Mp or 16 Mp sensor. It's unlikely to make much difference to you unless you plan making big prints regularly, over 15x12, say. I'd think the G80 would be plenty for your purposes and the money saved could be spent on the tiny 35-100 f/3.5-5.6 at some point.
@@DavidThorpeMFT Thanks for your reply! I took a completely different path and went with a used GX800 to see if the micro 4/3 is for me. Now equipped with the standard kit lens, I'll get some primes and a zoom lens in the near future.
@@Martzoerst hope it works out!
Just to ask, David, I read somewhere that the additional grip for the GX9 is compatible with the GX80, is that right?
I haven't got one but I rea and believe it is. The camera are only a couple of mm different in base plate dimensions. I can't find anyone who has actually used one, however,
OK cheers, David. Great review btw meant to add that before. :-)
Thanks Kenny.
@David Thorpe what is your camera right now? And why? How many camera do you have? And hope you make video of what's in your camera bag 2018 thanks
I mainly use a G9 and a GX9 at the moment. The G9 because it is very versatile and I can call up all my different setups so easily. The GX9 because I bought it for review but it would be a GX80 otherwise as I wouldn't have upgraded. I have about 6 cameras at the moment but if I didn't do reviews it would the two I mentioned. I'll do a video of the cameras I carry later on but I want to see how the Panasonic 50-200 fits in. Or not!
David Thorpe thanks for the reply and do some what's on your camera bag 2018 thanks
Hi David, I have the Olympus EM5 ii, do you think its worth selling it and getting the Panasonic GX9?
You'd get the bigger sensor, which is good. But the Olympus has a much better EVF and a fully articulated monitor. On balance, no I don't think its worth it unless you really do fancy the rangefinder styling.
Hey David, what are the black and red dongle kind of thing hanging on most of your cameras?
They are Peak Design quick change strap/ wrist strap fittings. I put them on all my cameras so I can just swap one strap or wrist strap beteen them.
@@DavidThorpeMFT Thank you for the quick answer. I enjoy your videos a lot by the way.👍👍👍😀
Thanks!
despite not having it weather sealed, could it still tolerate shooting in moderate rain?
It would make sense to shield it as much as possible from the wet but for short periods it should be OK. Weather sealing doesn't mean that much with cameras anyway. My Samsung phone can be dunked in a metre of water for up to half an hour, guaranteed. That's sealing! Cameras are more sensibly styled weather resistant. I wouldn't like to rely on any camera for long periods in drenching rain other than the £5,000 professional stuff that cost enough for proper proofing.
Good day David! What would you consider your favorite camera these days? Are you able to pick a favorite?!
That's difficult, Adam. I'd say the GX9 because it's such a convenient size and shape for carrying around. But also the G9 for the sheer ease and pleasure of use. So both, which one depending on what I'm doing. If it had to be one camera, it'd be the G9 simply because it can do everything I require from a camera.
David Thorpe do you think there’s enough of an improvement in the GX9 to justify it over the GX80/85?
Over a GX80.85, probably not. Over a GX7, yes. The GX7 has become a bit of a classic, though and I think many will just want to carry on with it.
Sorry, I could not find your email address to send a question to you regarding your “The Panasonic GX9 Menu System Simplified”. Changing Fn2 key to lock the screen utilizing the Operation Lock setting is problematic because it also prevents me from using the joy stick to move the cursor when the Operation Lock is activated. I want only the screen locked so I cannot accidentally move the cursor with my nose, but at the same time, be able to move the cursor with the joy stick. Is there a way to just assign just touch screen off to a function key?
Hi David - If you set Direct Focus-> On and Touch Screen On/ Cursor Off in the Operation Lock setting, the F2 key seems to do what you want.
I am not sure to pick which camera either GX9 or Pen F, or back to OMD EM5 mark2. Currently use EM 1
Difficult, isn't it? My personal view is that the GX9 is the best all rounder of them all taking into account size and price. Trouble is, you need to be sure that the smallish EVF is something that you can live with. I prefer the E-M1 over the E-M5MkII, lovely quality feel and size if you like something a little bigger. And it does everything well. The Pen F has a lovely feel and design. For sure, there's no bad choice.
Thanks. Bought a GX9 3 weeks ago. Wow! Sold my Nikon D5500&5300 and all lenses... On paper Nikon is better, but, in the hand... GX9 and 7-14 F4 is a wonder, with Panasonic Stabilisation 1+ second blur free interior Cathedral shots. With Olympus 14mm F1.8 a formidable street set up. Weight saving is enormous and image quality is excellent. Thanks for all your help...
You are welcome, Paul. Glad I was able to be helpful.
Why did they get rid of the fully articulating screen?
The GX80 didn't have one and this camera is a development of that rather than the GX8. It's that name confusion that causes the problem! The articulating screen increases the depth and weight of the body which doesn't matter on a bigger camera but does on this one.
My GX8 a articulated screen failed twice in seven months and Panasonic is having problems finding warranty information to do the repair, very disappointing, The screen is great for my physical restraints but may not be worth a $480 repair sigh. Is the GX9 the answer?
Hi David
Will the lens stabilization of the Oly 40-150 work with the GX-9?
Thanks
Caula
Hi Caula - the Olympus 40-150 fm2.8 doesn't have stabilization in lens, so you'd be using the body stabilization anway. It doesn't really matter since the in body stabilization is good enough on its own these days. If you want dual stabilization, you have to use the maker's own lenses.
@@DavidThorpeMFT Many thanks David!
I didn't realize the Olympus 40-150 doesn't have stabilization.
So here is my problem, do I buy the GX8 or a GX9 ?
The biggest difference is the size. The GX8 has a far, far better EVF, one of the best, in fact. The GX9 has better stabilization. There's no clear choice but I'd decide on those first two bases - do I want bigger or smaller and how important is the EVF. There's also price of course. In a way, everything points to the GX8.
I've just purchased this camera but I find its auto white balance performance is a bit disappointing as I see a blue colour cast in some of my images taken in lowish light on a cloudy night and I needed to use a cloudy wb to correct it. I'm beginning to wonder if the GX80 was a better bet as I owned it before and it didn't appear to have this auto white balance issue.
There are the two Auto WB settings on the GX9 - AWB is warmer than AWBc. I'm surprised you are getting a cold colour with AWB. I've not noticed any great difference between the GX80 and GX9 white balance but that doesn't mean you wouldn't.
Hi, David. My last post was based on my initial pictures with the camera and they were taken at night but I've since taken more during the day and the colours are nicely saturated, so guess it might have been down to the light at the time. I think its a great little camera overall, so look forward to putting it through its paces a bit more.
@@kenny75photography2 For night shots RAW is best since you can set any colour balance you like in post processing.
Do you think it was a mistake to omit a mic input?
Not from Panasonic's point of view! They need to keep some facilities back to encourage you to spend more money! A lot of people prefer to use a separate audio recorder anyway and sync in post processing. It's very easy to do and gives more flexibility than the built in recorder.
Nice review. I will stick with gx80 for a while yer :-). Thank you.
Thanks! I'd agree with your decision, too.
I bet Panasonic's "random generator" lacks any form of Artificial Intelligence ;)
Would a modern Panasonic Camera perform better than a older Nikon or canon full frame dslr ?
Yes, overall it would perform better than the older models though not necessarily the top line professional FF models. With the APS-C models there's not a big difference even with the up to date ones in general photography.
David Thorpe Thanks For The reply David,
So would a Nikon d600 perform better than a Panasonic gx8 with similar lenses?
In terms of noise, yes because a bigger sensor will have less than a smaller one for obvious reasons. The Nikon saves money by having a plastic lens mount, fewer focus points, things like that. And of course lenses will be much bigger. For a given price, you are simply looking at different compromises. But IQ isn't everything. Micro Four Thirds set out to balance performance and IQ against useable IQ. FF comes into its own for very large prints. for normal screen viewing there's no difference. In fact on a tablet screen it is impossible to tell shots from MFT from shots on my Samsung S8 phone. Horses for courses, really. If IQ was my main criterion, I'd be looking at medium format.
David Thorpe The only reason I’m looking to get a FF camera is the better dynamic range,more background bokeh and the fact that there seem to be more “professional “,but the Panasonic Cameras have everything you need but a better low light performance than FF and minimal background blur and Sony isn’t an option because lenses cost a lot of money and using adapters reduces the features which you got the camera for anyway and canon and Nikon are big cameras with less features than the others but have a great/cheap range of lenses.
So I’m really stuck on what I should get as an upgrade next? Any suggestions on what to get.Thanks Aiden