Fujifilm X-T30 II vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-G2: An Expert Comparison for Photography Enthusiasts

Choosing the right mirrorless camera can feel daunting with the vast range of options and evolving technology. Today, we deeply examine two entry-level mirrorless cameras from different eras and mounts: the Fujifilm X-T30 II and the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G2. Both offer unique advantages and appeal to a wide spectrum of photographers, but which suits your needs best?

Having personally tested hundreds of mirrorless cameras, we’ll guide you through the key distinctions - from sensor performance to autofocus, shooting disciplines, ergonomics, and value - with candid, hands-on insights to empower your choice.

First Impressions: Body, Size, and Handling

Before diving into technical specifics, let's start with the tactile experience, a critical component of long shooting sessions.

As illustrated above, the Fujifilm X-T30 II is physically more compact and lighter, weighing in at 383 grams against the Panasonic’s 428 grams. The X-T30 II’s thinner profile offers increased portability if you frequently shoot on the move or prefer a snug grip in tight spaces.

The Panasonic G2 stands taller with a chunkier grip, partly due to older design conventions from its 2010 release. You’ll notice the G2’s fully articulating screen suits vloggers and creative shooting angles better than the more restrained tilting screen on the Fuji.

From the overhead perspective, Fujifilm embodies its signature manual dial experience, providing rapid physical control over ISO, shutter speed, and exposure compensation - a boon for tactile feedback enthusiasts. The Panasonic’s fewer dedicated dials, paired with touchscreen reliance, sometimes slow down adjustments but offer intuitive menu navigation.

Our takeaway: The X-T30 II feels more modern and ergonomic, better for photographers valuing quick settings tweaks; the G2 might appeal if you want flexible screen articulation and touchscreen usability.

Sensor and Image Quality: The Heart of Photography

Sensor technology underpins everything from resolution to low-light behavior. Let’s break down the differences.

The Fujifilm X-T30 II utilizes a larger APS-C sensor, roughly 63% larger than the Panasonic’s Four Thirds. This translates to better light gathering capability, improved dynamic range, and higher potential resolution. The lack of an anti-aliasing filter on the Fuji helps produce crisper images but occasionally requires careful focus to avoid moiré in fine patterns.

Despite the Panasonic G2’s lower 12MP resolution, its Four Thirds sensor performs well for the era and system size, especially with a formidable lens ecosystem providing compelling reach given its 2.1x crop factor. However, it struggles more with noise at higher ISO settings, given the older sensor technology and smaller sensor.

In practice, the X-T30 II delivers superior image quality with richer tones, cleaner shadows, and higher detail in daylight and controlled lighting scenarios. The Panasonic is still capable but exhibits more noise and less color depth in challenging lighting.

Autofocus Systems and Shooting Speed: Keeping Your Moments Sharp

Sharp, responsive autofocus is paramount if you shoot fast-moving subjects, wildlife, or sports.

The X-T30 II boasts an advanced hybrid autofocus system with 425 phase-detection points, delivering fast and accurate focus acquisition and tracking - indispensable for wildlife, sports, and street photography. Continuous AF and subject tracking are noticeably crisper and more reliable.

By contrast, the Panasonic G2 relies exclusively on contrast-detection autofocus, which is slower and less predictive, particularly in low light or with fast subjects. Its burst shooting caps out at 3 fps, limiting action capture fluidity.

For photographers who prioritize speed and autofocus precision, especially in demanding scenarios, the X-T30 II provides a compelling advantage.

User Interface and Screen: Making Every Shot Intuitive

User experience revolves around how easily you access controls, review images, and frame your shots.

The superior resolution on the Fuji’s LCD and EVF reflects newer technology. The tilting screen works well for varied heights but lacks the full articulation ideal for vlogging or awkward angles. Panasonic’s fully articulated screen, albeit lower-res, excels at creative framing and selfies.

Both cameras have touch interfaces to quickly set focus points and navigate menus; however, the X-T30 II responds more fluidly, which significantly smooths the shooting process.

Fuji's OLED EVF offers a noticeably sharper and brighter preview compared to Panasonic’s older LCD electronic viewfinder. This enhances manual focus accuracy and shooting confidence.

Lens Ecosystem and Compatibility: Unlocking Creative Potential

A camera is only as versatile as its compatible lenses.

The Panasonic G2 sits within the Micro Four Thirds (MFT) system - arguably one of the most extensive and versatile lens ecosystems, supported by Panasonic, Olympus, and third-party manufacturers. This grants you access to an exceptional range of lenses including ultra-compact primes, specialized macro, and long telephotos at varying price points.

Fujifilm’s X-mount, while smaller and younger, boasts a growing and high-quality lens lineup, characterized by excellent sharpness and unique film simulation profiles that enhance JPEG output. This system tends toward higher build quality and designs optimized to complement the APS-C sensor size.

For travelers and lens experimenters, MFT offers sheer versatility and often smaller, lighter optics. For those wanting specialized portrait and landscape optics with superior image rendering and brand consistency, Fujifilm’s lineup is a strong contender.

Battery Life and Storage: Practicalities for Your Workflow

While battery life is roughly similar, the X-T30 II edges ahead with wireless connectivity built-in, allowing easy image transfer and remote shooting via smartphone apps - an undeniable modern convenience for content creators on the go. Panasonic’s G2 has no wireless features which can limit flexibility.

Both use a single SD card slot and support UHS cards, but only the Fuji supports the faster USB 3.2 interface for quicker downloads during tethered work.

Specialization: How Each Camera Excels Across Photography Genres

To help you visualize which system fits your needs, let’s see how each camera performs for specific photographic disciplines.

Fujifilm X T30 II front Fujifilm X T30 II screen back Panasonic G2 front Panasonic G2 screen back

Sample images above highlight the crisp detail and vibrant color rendition from the Fujifilm X-T30 II. Meanwhile, the Panasonic G2’s samples show respectable color but noticeably softer details and less dynamic range.

Build Quality and Durability: Will Your Camera Stand the Test?

Neither camera offers full weather sealing or ruggedized construction, typical of entry-level mirrorless models. However, the X-T30 II features a more robust magnesium alloy body with high-quality finishes that feel resilient in hand. The Panasonic G2, by contrast, uses polycarbonate body panels leading to a lighter but less durable feel.

For photographers venturing into unpredictable environments, consider additional protective gear regardless of choice.

Video Capabilities: Beyond Stills Shooting

Both cameras offer video functionality, but the differences are stark.

While the Panasonic G2 was ahead in its time with HD video, the Fuji X-T30 II delivers full 4K UHD quality at 30fps with crisper detail and better audio monitoring options, essential for vloggers and multimedia creators.

Connectivity and Modern Features: Staying Current

The X-T30 II includes Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, enabling wireless control and easy photo transfer to mobile devices for instant sharing or backup. The G2 includes none of these, reflecting its decade-old design.

USB 3.2 support on the Fuji also accelerates file transfer during tethered sessions, a workflow benefit for professionals.

Pricing and Value: What Fits Your Budget?

Surprisingly, despite being newer and more advanced, the X-T30 II tends to be priced slightly lower or competitively, reflecting its appeal to the enthusiast market. The G2 is now often only found used or discounted, so pricing can vary widely.

Taking into account superior sensor, autofocus, video, and modern connectivity, the Fujifilm offers more bang-for-your-buck, especially if you value image quality and versatility.

Objective Score Summary: Overall and by Genre

The above composite rating consolidates factors like image quality, autofocus, handling, and video prowess. The X-T30 II consistently outpaces the G2, especially in fast action and video categories.

Breaking down by photographic style, the X-T30 II excels in portraits, landscape, and sports, while the G2’s strengths lie mostly in budget-friendly macro and some video flexibility (at HD).

Final Recommendations: Which Camera Should You Pick?

Here’s our guidance to help you decide:

• Choose the Fujifilm X-T30 II if you:

  • Want high-resolution images with rich colors and fine detail
  • Shoot fast-moving subjects like sports, wildlife, or street scenes requiring speedy AF and high burst rates
  • Need modern video features including 4K and quality audio inputs
  • Prefer intuitive manual controls and excellent low-light performance
  • Value wireless connectivity and faster data management

• Consider the Panasonic G2 if you:

  • Are on a tighter budget and find the used market for G2 appealing
  • Prefer fully articulated screens for vlogging or creative framing
  • Need an extensive range of compact, affordable lenses via Micro Four Thirds
  • Shoot mostly casual, daytime photography or video without advanced AF requirements
  • Want a first mirrorless camera for learning basics with touchscreen convenience

Wrapping Up: Trust Your Creative Journey

Both cameras marked important chapters in mirrorless evolution. The Fujifilm X-T30 II embodies a modern, versatile powerhouse that can satisfy enthusiasts and semi-professionals alike. Its blend of tactile controls, image quality, autofocus, and video options stand up today.

The Panasonic G2, although older and less powerful, remains an accessible gateway into interchangeable lens photography. Its lens system and articulated screen still attract niche users and beginners.

Selecting between them ultimately depends on your shooting style, budget, and aspiration level. We encourage you to handle both cameras in-store if possible, explore sample images, and reflect on which features align with your photographic goals.

Photography is a rewarding journey - the right gear should empower your vision, not limit it. We hope this detailed comparison helps you confidently take your next creative step.