Clicky

Canon M200 vs Panasonic GX7

Portability
88
Imaging
69
Features
80
Overall
73
Canon EOS M200 front
 
Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX7 front
Portability
81
Imaging
52
Features
75
Overall
61

Canon M200 vs Panasonic GX7 Key Specs

Canon M200
(Full Review)
  • 24MP - APS-C Sensor
  • 3" Tilting Display
  • ISO 100 - 25600
  • 3840 x 2160 video
  • Canon EF-M Mount
  • 299g - 108 x 67 x 35mm
  • Launched September 2019
  • Old Model is Canon M100
Panasonic GX7
(Full Review)
  • 16MP - Four Thirds Sensor
  • 3" Tilting Display
  • ISO 125 - 25600
  • Sensor based Image Stabilization
  • 1/8000s Maximum Shutter
  • 1920 x 1080 video
  • Micro Four Thirds Mount
  • 402g - 123 x 71 x 55mm
  • Announced November 2013
  • Previous Model is Panasonic GX1
  • Replacement is Panasonic GX8
President Biden pushes bill mandating TikTok sale or ban

Canon EOS M200 vs Panasonic Lumix GX7: A Hands-On Mirrorless Showdown for Modern Photographers

Choosing a mirrorless camera today feels a bit like stepping into a candy store for someone with a sweet tooth - the options are overwhelming, the features dazzling, and the tech jargon borderline intimidating. Today, I’m tackling a comparison that sometimes stirs curiosity among enthusiasts and pros alike: Canon’s entry-level APS-C mirrorless shooter, the EOS M200, versus Panasonic’s more veteran, Micro Four Thirds Lumix GX7. They’re not exactly siblings, but they share similar rangefinder-style designs and mirrorless philosophies. So which one makes better sense for your photography ambitions? Buckle up: after extensively shooting, testing, and fussing with both cameras under varied conditions, this article will walk you through their strengths, limitations, and everything in between.

Canon M200 vs Panasonic GX7 size comparison

A Tale of Two Bodies: Size, Handling, and Ergonomics

Let’s begin at the very beginning - how these cameras feel in your hands. Size and weight hugely impact usability and comfort, especially for long shooting sessions in the field.

The Canon M200 is very much in the “pocket-friendly” camp. At 108 x 67 x 35 mm and a featherweight 299g including battery, it’s nimble and discreet. I found it perfect for travel or street photography where minimalism and low profile are king. The rangefinder styling contributes to its ease of carrying and quick handling, although the grip is modest and may feel a bit small for larger hands.

On the other end, the Panasonic GX7 stacks up noticeably bigger, measuring 123 x 71 x 55 mm and tipping the scales at 402g. It’s still compact by mirrorless standards, but its heft and deeper grip make for a more substantial handhold. This pays dividends in stability and control for those who favor manual focus or need a firm grasp during longer shoots. The GX7 feels like a serious workhorse, despite its age.

Monitor the difference in thickness and grip shape in the image above, and you’ll immediately appreciate these divergent philosophies: Canon leans ultra-portable and approachable; Panasonic prefers robust, tactile precision.

Controls on Deck: Usability in the Heat of Shooting

Going beyond mere dimensions, the physical layout and interface greatly influence shooting efficiency, especially in fast-paced environments where fumbling is not an option.

Canon M200 vs Panasonic GX7 top view buttons comparison

The M200 sports a minimalist control scheme befitting its entry-level status - a mode dial, a rear wheel for exposure compensation, and a handful of buttons. The touchscreen interface is very responsive and intuitive, doubling as the primary means of autofocus point selection and menu navigation. But if you’re used to a lot of physical dials and customizable buttons for on-the-fly adjustments, the M200 can feel somewhat limiting. The lack of a dedicated EVF also means you exclusively rely on the tilting rear LCD, which can be challenging in bright sunlight.

Conversely, the GX7 offers a satisfying abundance of manual controls and dials, including a front and rear control dial combo, dedicated ISO button, exposure compensation dial, and a plentiful complement of assignable function buttons. This physical engagement makes it a joy for photographers who want direct tactile feedback without delving into menus. Notably, the GX7 incorporates a bright, sharp electronic viewfinder (EVF) with 2,765k-dot resolution and 100% coverage - a huge advantage for composing shots in tricky lighting or fast action.

This layout difference signals each camera’s target audience starkly. The M200 is made to be approachable for beginners dipping their toes into mirrorless, whereas the GX7 caters to more advanced users craving control and flexibility.

Peeking Inside: Sensor Size, Resolution, and Image Quality

Now, let’s attack the heart of any camera: the sensor. Here’s where Canon and Panasonic take divergent paths with their respective APS-C and Micro Four Thirds formats.

Canon M200 vs Panasonic GX7 sensor size comparison

Canon’s M200 packs a relatively modern 24.1MP APS-C CMOS sensor (22.3 x 14.9 mm). APS-C sensors have long been hits for offering an optimal balance between resolution, noise handling, and depth of field control. With a sensor area of approximately 332.3 mm², the M200 benefits from larger individual pixels gathering more light, which helps in low-light shooting and dynamic range.

The GX7, released three years prior, features a 16MP Four Thirds sensor (17.3 x 13 mm) with an effective sensor area near 225 mm². While smaller than APS-C, the sensor retains high-quality color reproduction and sharper lenses due to Panasonic’s long-standing Micro Four Thirds (MFT) system maturity.

Although the M200 wins in sheer megapixels and sensor size, the real-world image quality difference isn’t always as dramatic as the spec sheet makes it seem. For example, the M200 achieves better low-light ISO performance with a max native ISO of 25,600 compared to the slightly higher noise seen in the GX7 at similar ISOs. Canon’s newer DIGIC 8 processor helps with noise reduction and dynamic range preservation.

That said, the GX7’s 16MP sensor still delivers excellent image sharpness and texture, especially with sharp MFT primes, which tend to be smaller, lighter, and more affordable than EF-M lenses.

Comparing sample photos from both cameras side-by-side reveals strong overall image quality for each, with the Canon M200 better suited for demanding noise conditions and nuanced tonal gradations, whereas the Panasonic shines in color fidelity and lens flexibility. More on that below.

Mastering Focus: Autofocus Systems in Action

Having tested many cameras over the years, autofocus remains a critical thorn in the side of photographers who demand speed and accuracy, especially in action or wildlife.

The M200 features a hybrid autofocus system boasting 143 autofocus points built on Canon’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF technology. This phase-detection system embedded across most of the sensor allows for fast, precise focus lock and smooth-face detection. It also supports touchscreen AF point selection and continuous eye detection tracking for portraits - a real plus when nailing those sharp eyeballs is the priority.

Meanwhile, the GX7 relies exclusively on contrast-detection autofocus with 23 user-selectable points. It lacks phase detection and animal eye AF - a sign of its older generation tech. Autofocus speed and tracking accuracy on the GX7 are respectable but fall short of the Canon’s sophistication. In fast-moving scenes like sports or wildlife, the GX7’s AF might feel hesitant or prone to hunting.

If your work requires fast or reliable autofocus - say sports or street photography - Canon’s M200 stands out as a more confident performer. But if you mostly work in controlled situations like landscapes or portraiture, the GX7’s system is adequate.

Viewing Experience: LCD and Electronic Viewfinder Differences

The presence of an EVF versus just an LCD can make or break your shooting style, especially under bright or variable light conditions.

Both cameras include a tilting 3" LCD screen with roughly 1,040k-dot resolution. The touchscreen interface is responsive and supports features like live view AF and menu navigation.

Canon M200 vs Panasonic GX7 Screen and Viewfinder comparison

What sets the GX7 apart is its built-in electronic viewfinder, sporting a crisp 2,765k-dot OLED display with 100% frame coverage and 0.7x magnification. This EVF provides a bright, real-time preview that is invaluable in direct sunlight or when you want to compose carefully while stabilizing the camera close to your face.

The M200 lacks any built-in EVF, which means outdoors and fast shooting scenarios may be hampered by glare or hand shake. Users must rely solely on the rear LCD, which tilts up 180 degrees making it selfie-friendly but less suited for traditional viewing. This limitation nudges the M200 more towards casual or vlog-style shooters over professional disciplines.

Lens Ecosystem and Compatibility: Options Shape Creativity

A camera is only as good as the lenses you pair with it - let’s see what each brand offers.

Canon’s M200 uses the EF-M mount, featuring about 23 native lenses including primes and zooms. However, the EF-M lens line remains relatively limited compared to Canon’s wider DSLR EF/EF-S lineup or other manufacturers.

Panasonic’s Micro Four Thirds mount, on the other hand, boasts a commanding lens library with over 100 options in various brands (Panasonic, Olympus, third-party), covering every conceivable focal length and specialty - macro, telephoto, ultra-wide, primes, zooms, and more. The lens availability, often smaller and more affordable, is a major selling point.

Adapters can open additional Canon EF lenses on the M200 but at the cost of bulk and autofocus speed.

For those valuing system versatility and future-proofing, the Panasonic GX7’s MFT mount wins hands down. The Canon M200 might suit beginners or those on a tighter budget but could feel more restrictive over time.

Speed in Action: Burst Rates and Shutter Mechanics

Continuous shooting speed matters in action, wildlife, and sports photography.

Canon’s M200 offers 6.1 frames per second (fps) continuous shooting, a respectable rate for an entry-level camera. Though not blazing fast, it suffices for casual sports and spontaneous street moments, especially combined with its Dual Pixel AF.

Panasonic’s GX7 is rated at 5 fps, a bit slower, but also provides an electronic shutter mode that achieves up to 1/16,000 second speed for silent shooting, great for discreet street or event work. The GX7 also supports silent shutter modes.

While neither is a speed demon competing with flagship cameras, the M200’s slight edge in burst rate and modern AF tech gives it a slight advantage in fast action capture.

Image Stabilization: Steady Shots Matter

No in-body image stabilization (IBIS) on the Canon M200 - a disappointment if you plan to shoot handheld in low light or video handheld.

Panasonic GX7, on the other hand, packs sensor-based image stabilization, which compensates for small shakes and enables sharper shots at slower shutter speeds. This feature shines in macro, travel, and video work where tripod use is limited.

However, stabilization still depends heavily on lens quality. Panasonic’s system combined with stabilized lenses offers a more versatile shooting experience under challenging conditions.

Video Capabilities: Quality and Usability

Video is no longer a nice-to-have but a must-have for many users, so let’s see where these cameras stand.

The Canon M200 supports 4K UHD recording at 30p and Full HD at 60p with a bitrate of 120 Mbps. That’s pretty impressive for an entry-level body. However, it lacks a microphone or headphone jack, restricting advanced audio monitoring or external mic use. This clip is best suited for casual YouTube, vlogging, or family videos - especially with its fully articulating touchscreen and selfie mode.

The Panasonic GX7 is limited to Full HD (1080p) video at up to 60p. While solid quality for its age, it doesn’t support 4K recording. It also lacks mic/headphone ports but offers excellent in-body stabilization, which helps smooth handheld footage.

If video is a priority and you want 4K without external gear, the M200 edges ahead, but the GX7 maintains strong photo/video duality with its stabilization and image quality.

Battery Life and Storage: Shooting Day and Night

Battery performance often gets overlooked but can cripple a day of shooting if underestimated.

The Canon M200, powered by an LP-E12 battery, manages roughly 315 shots per charge, typical for entry-level mirrorless cameras. You’ll want spares if you plan full-day sessions or video work.

The GX7 does slightly better at 350 shots per charge, but its older battery design means you might consider replacements if you pick up a used body.

Both cameras utilize a single SD card slot with UHS-I support. No dual card redundancy here - so back up regularly if critical work is on the line.

Connectivity and Wireless Features

The Canon M200 brings modern wireless chops with built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, enabling seamless image transfer to smartphones or remote control via Canon’s app - great for quick sharing or selfie shooters.

The Panasonic GX7 offers Wi-Fi and NFC but no Bluetooth, which limits connectivity flexibility a bit in today’s wireless ecosystem.

Durability and Weather Resistance

Neither camera offers weather sealing or rugged protection. Both are designed for casual to enthusiast photography in fair conditions.

If you’re often shooting outdoors in rain or harsh environments, consider more robust alternatives.

Price and Value: What Does Your Wallet Say?

Weighing $549 for the Canon EOS M200 (body only) makes it a very affordable entry into mirrorless photography and 4K video.

The Panasonic GX7 commands about $999 in the used or discounted market (it’s discontinued), but for a more advanced interface, EVF, and stabilization system - a fair price if you want features over portability.

Putting It All Together: Scores and Genre-Specific Performance

Here’s the quick rundown based on my testing and the data above:

  • Portrait: Canon M200’s higher resolution and face/eye detection autofocus deliver more precise, flattering portraits with smoother skin tones and beautiful bokeh control. Panasonic’s 16MP sensor and stabilized lenses give less background separation but solid detail.

  • Landscape: The M200’s bigger sensor and newer processor pull ahead in dynamic range and low noise, essential for rich landscape shots. GX7’s smaller sensor puts it slightly behind but it benefits from Panasonic’s lens selection, including affordable ultra-wides.

  • Wildlife: M200 autofocus speed and burst rate outpace the GX7, favoring quick capture of elusive critters. EF-M lenses are less extensive for long telephotos, though adapters help. GX7's stabilization aids handheld shooting but slower AF might miss shots.

  • Sports: The M200’s faster fps and hybrid AF give it a leg up, but neither camera competes with pro-level sports shooters.

  • Street: GX7’s EVF and silent shutter modes offer tactical advantages for discreet street photography, despite the slower AF. The M200 is more compact but less stealthy without silent shutter.

  • Macro: GX7’s in-body IS and lens variety pull ahead for macro shooting, though M200’s sensor offers superb resolution if paired with sharp glass.

  • Night/Astro: M200’s superior high ISO noise performance aids in night photography, but neither camera is a specialized astro rig.

  • Video: M200’s 4K puts it far ahead, but lack of mic input limits professional use. GX7 offers steady Full HD footage thanks to stabilization.

  • Travel: M200’s light weight and tilt-up screen make it ideal for travel vloggers or casual shooters. GX7’s battery life and controls suit those who want hands-on operation for longer excursions.

  • Professional Work: Neither camera is designed as a pro tool due to limited ruggedness and advanced features. However, the GX7’s manual controls and EVF provide a better platform for work requiring precise composition.

My Final Take: Who Should Buy Which?

If you want an affordable, approachable mirrorless camera with modern autofocus and video features to capture everyday moments, portraits, and casual travel - especially if you treasured compactness and output quality - the Canon EOS M200 is an excellent choice. It’s mini, mighty, and ready to teach you the ropes without overwhelm.

If your photography leans toward manual control, you crave an EVF, want in-body image stabilization, and a rich lens ecosystem for macro, street, or hands-on creativity - and don’t mind a slightly older design and lower resolution - the Panasonic Lumix GX7 remains a robust, capable companion. It’s a camera with character and serious potential.

Both cameras have stood the test of time through different technological waves, and so your pick depends primarily on your priorities: cutting-edge sensor and autofocus versus classic handling and stabilization features.

Before You Buy: A Few Testing Tips from My Workflow

  • Always shoot RAW on both cameras to unlock post-processing flexibility.
  • Test autofocus in your typical shooting environment before investing in lenses.
  • Consider renting or borrowing to gauge how the ergonomics feel in your hands.
  • Evaluate battery endurance if you plan to shoot extensively in the wild or on location.
  • Check lens availability in your region, especially for the EF-M system, which is more limited.

Hope this candid, hands-on comparison helps cut through the marketing noise and points you to the mirrorless camera that genuinely fits your creative ambitions. No perfect camera exists; it’s all about fitting your unique photography style and needs. Happy shooting!

Looking for more details on lenses, specific shooting modes, or software workflows? Just ask - I've got plenty of hands-on experience to share.

Images used courtesy of my extensive test sessions with these cameras. All specs based on manufacturer data and professional-tested values.

Canon M200 vs Panasonic GX7 Specifications

Detailed spec comparison table for Canon M200 and Panasonic GX7
 Canon EOS M200Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX7
General Information
Manufacturer Canon Panasonic
Model Canon EOS M200 Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX7
Category Entry-Level Mirrorless Advanced Mirrorless
Launched 2019-09-25 2013-11-07
Body design Rangefinder-style mirrorless Rangefinder-style mirrorless
Sensor Information
Powered by DIGIC 8 Venus Engine
Sensor type CMOS CMOS
Sensor size APS-C Four Thirds
Sensor dimensions 22.3 x 14.9mm 17.3 x 13mm
Sensor area 332.3mm² 224.9mm²
Sensor resolution 24 megapixels 16 megapixels
Anti aliasing filter
Aspect ratio 1:1, 4:3, 3:2 and 16:9 1:1, 4:3, 3:2 and 16:9
Highest Possible resolution 6000 x 4000 4592 x 3448
Maximum native ISO 25600 25600
Min native ISO 100 125
RAW support
Autofocusing
Manual focus
AF touch
Continuous AF
AF single
Tracking AF
Selective AF
AF center weighted
AF multi area
AF live view
Face detect focusing
Contract detect focusing
Phase detect focusing
Number of focus points 143 23
Lens
Lens mounting type Canon EF-M Micro Four Thirds
Number of lenses 23 107
Crop factor 1.6 2.1
Screen
Display type Tilting Tilting
Display sizing 3 inches 3 inches
Resolution of display 1,040k dot 1,040k dot
Selfie friendly
Liveview
Touch friendly
Display technology - LCD
Viewfinder Information
Viewfinder type None Electronic
Viewfinder resolution - 2,765k dot
Viewfinder coverage - 100 percent
Viewfinder magnification - 0.7x
Features
Min shutter speed 30s 60s
Max shutter speed 1/4000s 1/8000s
Max quiet shutter speed - 1/16000s
Continuous shutter speed 6.1 frames per second 5.0 frames per second
Shutter priority
Aperture priority
Manual exposure
Exposure compensation Yes Yes
Change WB
Image stabilization
Inbuilt flash
Flash range 5.00 m (at ISO 100) 7.00 m (at ISO 200)
Flash modes - Auto, Auto & Red-eye reduction, Fill-in flash, Slow sync, Slow sync w/red-eye reduction, off
Hot shoe
AE bracketing
White balance bracketing
Max flash sync - 1/320s
Exposure
Multisegment exposure
Average exposure
Spot exposure
Partial exposure
AF area exposure
Center weighted exposure
Video features
Video resolutions 3840 x 2160 @ 23.98p / 120 Mbps, MP4, H.264, AAC 1920 x 1080 (60p, 60i, 50p, 50i, 30p, 24p), 1280 x 720 (60p, 30p), 640 x 480 (30p)
Maximum video resolution 3840x2160 1920x1080
Video data format MPEG-4, H.264 MPEG-4, AVCHD
Mic input
Headphone input
Connectivity
Wireless Built-In Built-In
Bluetooth
NFC
HDMI
USB SB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec) USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
GPS None None
Physical
Environment seal
Water proof
Dust proof
Shock proof
Crush proof
Freeze proof
Weight 299 grams (0.66 lbs) 402 grams (0.89 lbs)
Physical dimensions 108 x 67 x 35mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.4") 123 x 71 x 55mm (4.8" x 2.8" x 2.2")
DXO scores
DXO Overall score not tested 70
DXO Color Depth score not tested 22.6
DXO Dynamic range score not tested 12.2
DXO Low light score not tested 718
Other
Battery life 315 photographs 350 photographs
Type of battery Battery Pack Battery Pack
Battery model LP-E12 -
Self timer Yes (2 or 10 secs, custom) Yes (2 or 10 secs, 10 secs w/ 3 shots)
Time lapse shooting
Type of storage SD/SDHC/SDXC card (UHS-I compatible) SD/SDHC/SDXC card
Storage slots 1 1
Price at release $549 $1,000