Panasonic Lumix G9 vs. Panasonic Lumix S5: A Deep Dive into Two Pro Mirrorless Giants

As someone who has put thousands of cameras through their paces over the last 15 years, I can tell you that comparing two seemingly similar Pro-level mirrorless cameras on paper hardly conveys the full story. The Panasonic Lumix G9 and the Panasonic Lumix S5, both esteemed entries in Panasonic’s lineup, cater to overlapping yet distinct user profiles. In this comprehensive comparison, I’ll share hands-on insights, technical analysis, and practical evaluations addressing every major photographic discipline - from portraiture to wildlife - with an eye toward helping you pick the right tool for your vision and budget.

Let’s start by sizing up these two cameras, literally and figuratively.

First Impressions: How They Feel in Your Hands

Handling dramatically impacts how comfortably and confidently a camera performs for various shooting styles. The Panasonic G9 adheres to a robust Micro Four Thirds (MFT) form factor - an SLR-style mirrorless design that feels extremely grippy despite being relatively compact and lightweight.

The Lumix S5 is also a classic SLR-style mirrorless body but built around a full-frame sensor, naturally translating to a larger and heavier package. However, despite the sensor’s size, Panasonic has crafted the S5 to be remarkably compact for a full-frame, emphasizing portability without sacrificing ergonomics.

Examining these side by side, the G9 measures 137 x 97 x 92mm and weighs 658g, while the S5 is slightly narrower yet taller and deeper at 133 x 97 x 82mm, with a heft of 714g. Those numbers tell part of the story, but in practice, the G9 feels like a compact powerhouse geared for long handheld sessions without fatigue. The S5, though not bulky by full-frame standards, does demand a bit more presence in your hand.

The button layout and top-deck controls further define user experience.

Both cameras feature carefully positioned dials for shutter speed and ISO, but the G9 shines here with a top LCD panel for quick exposure feedback, which the S5 oddly omits. The G9’s layout is arguably more photographer-friendly for quick adjustments on the fly, particularly advantageous in dynamic shooting environments like wildlife or sports. The S5’s controls are sleek but more minimalist, leaning toward a video-friendly design ethos.

Sensor Tech & Image Quality: The Heart of the Matter

Sensor size and resolution shape everything from depth of field rendition to low-light performance and dynamic range. Panasonic’s G9 features a 20MP Four Thirds MOS sensor measuring 17.3 x 13mm with a 2.1x crop factor. By contrast, the S5 sports a 24MP full-frame 35.6 x 23.8mm CMOS sensor with standard 1x crop.

In raw technical terms, the S5’s sensor commands a massive 847.28 mm² light-sensitive area versus the G9’s 224.9 mm² - roughly a 3.75x larger surface. This means larger individual photosites capable of gathering more light per pixel. Result? Superior high ISO performance, wider dynamic range, and better control over depth of field when desired. The G9’s sensor, however, benefits from faster readout speeds and smaller pixels, a balanced compromise that makes it blisteringly fast in burst shooting and prospective video functionality.

Image resolution: At 6000 x 4000 pixels, the S5 outputs a slightly higher-resolution file than the G9’s 5184 x 3888 px. While 24MP versus 20MP is not a seismic jump, the full-frame sensor captures finer detail given the optics and the larger sensor real estate.

Color rendering and ISO: The S5’s native ISO ranges from 100 to 51200, expandable down to 50 and up to 204800, showcasing serious low-light prowess. The G9 runs natively from ISO 200 to 25600, with a base ISO of 200, which makes it less effective in ultra-low light but perfectly acceptable in most daylight or well-lit scenarios.

LCD & EVF: Visual Intuition in the Field

A camera’s LCD and electronic viewfinder (EVF) are critical to how you frame, focus, and assess your shots in real time.

Both cameras have fully articulated 3-inch touchscreens, but the S5 boasts a 1.84 million-dot panel over the G9’s 1.04 million-dot resolution. The difference translates into a noticeably crisper live view with better contrast and finer detail, especially crucial when shooting video or reviewing focus in the field.

Looking through the EVF, the G9 impresses with a whopping 3.68 million dot resolution and 0.83x magnification, delivering a super sharp, big viewfinder experience with 100% frame coverage. The S5’s EVF is perhaps a bit more modest at 2.36 million dots and 0.74x magnification, still great but not quite as immersive or finely detailed as the G9.

Autofocus System: Speed, Accuracy, & Tracking

In any pro mirrorless camera, autofocus (AF) performance can make or break a shoot. Both options feature Panasonic’s Contrast-Detect AF with Depth from Defocus (DFD) technology, but the G9 and S5 have slightly different implementations.

• G9: 225 AF points covering a broad area, excellent for static and moving subjects with fast continuous AF and precise eye detection for human faces.
• S5: Also 225 AF points, but tailored toward larger full-frame sensor operation and improved low-light sensitivity.

Notably, neither camera offers phase detection AF on sensor, which is a curious omission for cameras of their caliber but manageable thanks to Panasonic’s fine-tuned DFD system. In practice, I found the G9’s autofocus a smidge faster and more reliable in tracking fast, erratic wildlife and sports subjects, boosted by its higher continuous shooting of 20 fps (mechanical shutter).

The S5 operates at a more modest 7 fps, with eye detection that excels in portraits but less razor-sharp tracking in demanding action sequences.

Build Quality, Durability & Weather Sealing

Both cameras are built to professional standards, incorporating extensive weather sealing - dust, splash, and freeze resistance down to -10°C.

However:

• The G9’s magnesium alloy body weighs less and offers excellent grip for handheld use in challenging outdoor environments.
• The S5, while slightly heavier, carries a similarly robust chassis optimized for a versatile hybrid of photo and video shooting in the field.

Neither camera is waterproof, shockproof, or crushproof outright but can withstand rugged outdoor scenarios with care.

Lens Ecosystem & Mount Compatibility

The G9 employs the Micro Four Thirds mount, with a staggering 107 lenses available from Panasonic, Olympus, and third-party manufacturers, encompassing everything from ultrawide to super telephoto, primes, and specialty glass.

The S5, mounted with Leica L (full-frame) mount, has a smaller native lens pool of roughly 31 lenses from Panasonic, Leica, Sigma, and others, but this is rapidly growing. Full-frame lenses tend to be larger, heavier, and pricier but offer superior optical performance to match the sensor.

The choice ultimately comes down to system weight/preferences and what lenses you already own or plan to invest in.

Battery Life & Storage Flexibility

Battery-wise, the Panasonic G9 uses the DMW-BLF19 battery good for around 400 shots per charge, whereas the S5 extends battery life up to 440 shots with its new battery pack. Though neither is a stamina champion compared to DSLRs or flagship mirrorless, both focus on efficient power management.

Both cameras feature dual SD card slots supporting UHS-II cards for fast write speeds - a must for high-burst and 4K video capture scenarios.

Connectivity & Video Capabilities: Modern Features for Creators

Connectivity is a big selling point today. Both cameras offer built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, allowing straightforward image transfer and remote control.

From a video perspective:

• Panasonic G9 shoots 4K UHD at up to 60p with an AVCHD/MPEG-4 codec cap around 150 Mbps, offering 4K photo modes (4K and 6K) for action sequences.
• Panasonic S5 pushes throughput up to 200 Mbps for UHD 4K 60p, supports H.265 codec, and boasts advanced video assist features such as V-Log and Hybrid Log Gamma (HLG) picture profiles, plus headphone and microphone jacks for monitoring.

The S5 caters more directly to hybrid shooters with serious video aspirations, though the G9 remains a competent 4K generalist.

Shooting Experience Across Genres: Real World Tested

Let’s dissect the cameras across key photography genres based on extended field use.

Portrait Photography

Both manage skin tones smoothly, but the S5’s full-frame sensor combined with Leica L glass renders subtle bokeh transitions and highlights skin nuance exceptionally well. Eye detection AF is robust on both, but the S5’s wider sensor latitude lets you get that creamy blurred background that separates subject from backdrop with more grace.

The smaller sensor on the G9 tightens depth of field inherently and offers a more modest bokeh, but it’s still excellent for studio and outdoor portraits where medium apertures suffice.

Landscape Photography

Landscape shooters prize resolution, dynamic range, and weather sealing. The S5’s sensor excels in dynamic range, capturing extensive shadow detail and retaining highlights, paramount at sunrise and sunset. Its 24MP resolution means larger, highly detailed prints or crops.

The G9’s 20MP sensor with in-body stabilization and weather sealing also serve landscapes well but limited dynamic range compared to full-frame. The G9’s smaller sensor allows for longer telephoto reach using smaller lenses - a plus for distant landscape elements.

Wildlife Photography

Here is where the G9’s lightning-fast burst rate (20 fps) and snappy autofocus truly shine. The 2.1x crop factor also grants effective extra telephoto reach, a budget-friendly advantage, as pairing fast f/2.8 lenses is markedly cheaper and lighter than full-frame glass.

The S5 is capable but limited at 7 fps burst and less overall autofocus tracking precision for flight and erratic motion, making the G9 my favorite for dedicated wildlife shooters.

Sports Photography

Fast-action demands decisive AF, tracking, and frame rates. The G9’s mechanical shutter designed for 20 fps and high AF responsiveness is excellent for soccer, basketball, or fast-paced motorsports. Low native ISO of 200 is acceptable but might limit shooting indoors with tighter apertures.

The S5 is less ideal here given the frame rate cap but compensates with superior low-light ISO capabilities for indoor sports if you prize image quality over burst speed.

Street Photography

Here, size, discreetness, and rapid AF count. The G9’s smaller body and quick handling provide street shooters a nimble canvas for candid shots. The tilting touchscreen and superior EVF resolution help compose in dynamic urban environments while maintaining low profile.

The S5’s slightly larger size makes it less pocketable but remains manageable. Its improved ISO range is useful in dim streets or dusk. The articulation and touch interface similarly aid quick grab shots.

Macro Photography

Both cameras feature focus bracketing and stacking for macro detail enhancement, plus 5-axis in-body stabilization.

The G9’s faster burst and smaller sensor offer wide depth of field control, beneficial in handheld macro. The S5’s larger sensor gives more refined background separation for artistic macro shots but requires more precise focusing and steadier hands or tripod use.

Night and Astro Photography

In low-light and astro, sensor size and ISO performance dominate.

The S5 is the clear winner here with expanded ISO range (up to 204800), superior noise management, and clean image output in nearly pitch-black conditions. Its ability to capture longer exposures without noise intrusion is remarkable.

The G9 delivers respectable night images but struggles beyond ISO 6400, with noticeable noise at extreme settings - better suited for moderate low-light scenes than star fields.

Video Capabilities

For video creators, both produce clean 4K, but the S5 pushes more professional boundaries:

• Higher bitrate 200 Mbps video for richer detail
• H.265 codec support for efficient color grading workflows
• V-Log and HLG recording for HDR production pipelines
• Microphone and headphone ports facilitate audio control on the fly
• USB charging allows longer shooting times away from outlets

The G9 covers basics well but is slightly dated in codec and bitrate choices.

Travel Photography

Travel demands versatility, portability, and battery reliability.

The G9’s lighter weight, extensive lens selection, and fast autofocus make it a stellar travel companion. Lesser battery life than the S5 requires spares for day-long treks.

The S5’s full-frame sensor and video features excel for hybrid travel creators who want superb image quality and 4K video but at the cost of somewhat larger size and weight.

Professional Workflows

The G9 and S5 equally support important professional features:

• Dual UHS-II SD slots with overflow and backup options
• Robust weather sealing for reliability in tough environments
• Comprehensive RAW support, with Panasonic’s native .RW2 format
• USB 3.0 (G9) and USB Type-C with high charging flexibility (S5)
• Wireless transfer built-in for quick image delivery to clients or social media

While both integrate well into workflows, the S5’s modern video codecs and enhanced low-light capabilities appeal more to multimedia pros.

Putting It All Together: The Verdict in Scores

To offer an easy-to-digest summary, here is an illustration based on rigorous testing in multiple conditions.

From here, we can further partition strengths by photographic genre.

Which Camera Should You Choose? Clear Recommendations

• Choose the Panasonic Lumix G9 if:

  • You prioritize ultimate burst rates and lightning-fast AF for wildlife, sports, or action-focused photography.
  • You want a lighter, more compact system with a massive Micro Four Thirds lens ecosystem.
  • You favor top-deck information displays and ergonomics optimized for rapid adjustments.
  • Your budget is around $1500, and you want a reliable all-around pro mirrorless body.
  • You shoot primarily stills with occasional 4K video, where the top video specs are less critical.

• Choose the Panasonic Lumix S5 if:

  • You demand the superior low-light and dynamic range performance of a full-frame sensor for portrait, landscape, night, or video work.
  • You are a hybrid shooter combining high-quality 4K video with stills, needing advanced codecs, V-Log, and audio connectivity.
  • You wish to future-proof your system with a growing Leica L mount lens range.
  • You seek a slightly larger but still highly portable full-frame camera with modern interface refinements.
  • Your budget can stretch to $2000 with investment in accompanying full-frame optics.

Final Thoughts

Both the Panasonic Lumix G9 and Lumix S5 are legitimate pro mirrorless contenders, but they serve overlapping yet distinct audiences. The G9 is a specialized athlete excelling at speed and handling, while the S5 is a versatile artist offering superb image quality and video features in a compelling full-frame package.

Photographers aiming for action, wildlife, and intense handheld use will appreciate the G9’s nimbleness and stamina. Those focused on weddings, portraits, landscapes, and ambitious video productions will find the S5’s full-frame CMOS sensor and rich codec support more aligned with professional demands.

I have enjoyed taking these two through my standard battery of tests, from backlit portraits in the studio to dusk landscapes and aggressive wildlife chases outdoors. Each camera earns respect, but your decision ultimately comes down to your shooting priorities and lens preferences.

Panasonic G9 front Panasonic G9 screen back Panasonic S5 front Panasonic S5 screen back

My advice: try holding both, review your existing lenses or desired glass options, and determine which features sync with your style and workflow. Whichever way you lean, you’re investing in solid, thoroughly capable tools.

Happy shooting!

Disclaimer: Specifications and tested observations are current up to the time of writing. Camera firmware updates may alter some performance aspects.