Panasonic GH6 vs Panasonic G7: A Hands-On Comparison for Enthusiasts and Pros

If you're in the market for a Micro Four Thirds (MFT) camera, Panasonic's Lumix lineup has probably crossed your radar more than once. Over years of testing and shooting, I've gotten intimately familiar with their balance of innovation, ergonomics, and value. Today, we'll pit two notable Panasonic cameras side-by-side: the Panasonic Lumix DC-GH6 (the 2022 flagship pro mirrorless) versus the venerable Panasonic Lumix DMC-G7 (introduced back in 2015 as a reliable advanced mirrorless offering).

Though both share the MFT system, they're separated by a seven-year technology gulf and distinct use case design. In this comprehensive comparison, I'll dive into every major photography discipline, real-world performance, and value proposition so you can decide which camera fits your needs and wallet. Expect a blend of deep technical insight, practical feedback from studio and field shoots, plus frank pros and cons gleaned from my experience with thousands of cameras.

First Impressions: Size, Feel, and Controls

Before you whip out specs sheets, a camera’s physical interaction often drives the purchase. I always start by hefting the rigs, feeling button layout under thumbs and fingers, and peeking through the viewfinders.

The GH6 feels like a solid fistful of confidence compared to the G7’s leaner frame. It’s nearly double the weight (823g vs 410g) and bulkier (139x100x100 mm vs 125x86x77 mm). That heft translates to steadier handheld stability but also adds to your kit’s overall load, important for travel shooters or street photographers craving discretion.

Both cameras employ the classic SLR-style mirrorless body. However, the GH6’s grip is deeper and better molded for clubs-for-thumbs comfort, with thoughtfully spaced physical controls that invite quick, intuitive adjustments during shoots. In comparison, the G7’s smaller body feels a little cramped for larger hands, and its buttons are less tactile.

Now glance at the top view to see how Panasonic evolved interface ergonomics:

GH6 packs dedicated dials for ISO, shutter speed, exposure compensation, and drive mode – all essentials accessible without menu diving. The G7 integrates fewer hardware dials, leaning on button/menu combos, which can slow down pro workflows.

Bottom Line: If you prize robust handling and muscle memory-friendly controls, GH6's physical design blows the G7 out of the water. But the G7 still suffices for casual use or entry-level enthusiasts who prioritise portability.

Sensor Specs and Image Quality: Playing with Pixels

At the heart of every camera is its sensor technology and how it translates photons into images. Both cameras shoot with a Four Thirds sensor sized 17.3 x 13 mm, sharing the same 2.1x crop factor. Yet, they differ substantially in resolution and anti-aliasing filter implementation.

• GH6: 25MP CMOS sensor, no anti-aliasing filter
• G7: 16MP CMOS sensor, with anti-aliasing filter

The GH6’s higher resolution facilitates finer detail capture and cleaner crops, which you’ll appreciate in landscapes, studio portraits, or macro shots demanding pixel-level clarity. The lack of AA filter boosts sharpness but can risk moiré in fine repetitive patterns - manageable if you shoot RAW and use post-processing.

Meanwhile, the G7’s lower megapixel count is less forgiving for heavy cropping but excels in delivering smaller, quicker files for social media or family snaps.

Despite the decade gap, both maintain native ISO ranges from 100 to 25,600, with GH6 offering expanded ISO 50 low base for cleaner shadows and highlight recovery. This enhancement, combined with improved sensor design and next-gen image processors (though Panasonic’s exact model details for GH6 aren’t publicly spelled out), gives GH6 a clear advantage in dynamic range and noise control - crucial when pushing ISO in low-light or astrophotography.

Here’s a set of camera-made sample images for direct comparison:

Panasonic GH6 front Panasonic GH6 screen back Panasonic G7 front Panasonic G7 screen back

Observe how the GH6 maintains crisp edges, vibrant colors, and natural skin tones, while the G7, though competent, exhibits slightly more noise and softness in shadows. Your mileage may vary depending on processing workflow and lens choice, but this is a typical out-of-the-box difference.

Quick takeaway: GH6’s sensor makes it a serious tool for pros and enthusiasts requiring top image fidelity, while G7 is perfectly fine for beginners or casual shooters content with working files.

Articulated Screens and Viewfinders: Composing Your Shot

Both cameras feature the beloved Micro Four Thirds fully articulated 3.0-inch LCD touchscreen, vital for vlogging, street candid angles, and awkward macro compositions.

Here’s where the GH6 shines brilliantly with a 1,840k-dot resolution (almost double the G7’s 1,040k dots), delivering crisper, more detailed live previews. Brightness and color reproduction are noticeably improved on the GH6, which helps in bright outdoor conditions where glare can frustrate.

The electronic viewfinders (EVF) continue that narrative:

• GH6 boasts a massive 3,680k-dot OLED EVF with 0.76x magnification
• G7 has a 2,360k-dot OLED EVF at 0.7x magnification

The better resolution EVF on GH6 makes a world of difference for manual focusing critical in macro, wildlife, or portraiture, lending sharp focus peaking and accurate framing. Meanwhile, the G7's EVF, while adequate, can feel limiting in demanding fields – especially in bright daylight or fast-moving action.

Verdict on screens and viewfinder: For professionals and video shooters needing sharp details and easy composing flexibility, GH6’s screens are head and shoulders above the G7. Casual users might find the G7’s displays just fine.

Autofocus: Precision and Tracking in Real Environments

Panasonic’s autofocus systems have evolved dramatically over these seven years, and the GH6 exemplifies the brand’s strides towards smart tracking and fast acquisition.

While both rely on contrast-detection (no phase-detection pixels), the GH6 leverages AI-powered subject recognition, including animal eye AF, to lock on swiftly and maintain focus in challenging wildlife or sports scenarios. I’ve personally taken GH6 on birding expeditions where it keeps sharp tracking on fluttering wings far better than G7’s more basic AF.

Continuous shooting speeds tell us about burst performance:

• GH6 maxes out at 14 fps (impressive for MFT)
• G7 maxes at only 7 fps

This boost can make or break candid street shoots or sports coverage where fast reflexes mean more keepers.

A quick pro/con autofocus summary:

GH6 pros:

• Faster, smarter focusing with deep learning
• Eye and animal detection work superbly
• Higher burst rates for action photography

G7 pros:

• Simple to use, sufficient for static subjects
• Lower complexity suits beginners

GH6 cons:

• Complexity might overwhelm novices initially

G7 cons:

• Slower AF struggles with motion
• No animal detection limits wildlife use

Build Quality, Weather Sealing, and Durability

The GH6 steps into the pro sandbox with superior weather sealing and robust build designed for challenging environments:

• Environmentally sealed body against dust and moisture (though not fully waterproof)
• Larger, more rugged chassis feels ready for tough use outdoors

The G7, geared at enthusiasts and entry-level users, lacks any weather sealing and feels less resilient when subjected to rough handling or inclement weather.

If you trek landscapes or shoot weddings rain-or-shine, the GH6’s weather resistance is invaluable, whereas the G7 requires more caution and protective accessories.

Lens Compatibility and Ecosystem

Both cameras use the Micro Four Thirds mount, meaning lens selection overlaps extensively, with over 100 Panasonic and other third-party MFT lenses available.

• GH6: Officially compatible with 118 lenses
• G7: Compatible with 107 lenses

This slight increase mostly reflects newer Panasonic lenses designed for higher resolution and video performance on the GH6.

A practical note: The 2.1x crop factor of MFT puts telephoto reach ahead of typical full frames, useful for wildlife and sports. The GH6 is also better equipped to exploit stabilized lenses thanks to its sensor-based 5-axis image stabilization (IBIS), stabilizing handheld shooting for stills and video. The G7 lacks any in-body stabilization, relying solely on lens OIS if available.

If you shoot handheld macro or low-light portraits, GH6’s IBIS can reduce the need for tripods and permits slower shutter speeds without blur. This can be a gamechanger for creative flexibility.

Battery Life and Storage: Practical Considerations in the Field

Battery stamina is often overlooked but frustrating if ignored during production shoots or travel.

• GH6 uses the DMW-BLK22 battery with approx. 360 shots per charge
• G7 doesn’t specify model but rates at 350 shots

Despite the GH6’s heavier electronic horsepower (higher resolution sensor, brighter EVF), Panasonic has managed to keep battery life slightly improved. Of course, your mileage depends on usage patterns - video recording drains battery faster than stills.

Storage options:

• GH6 offers dual slots: one CFexpress Type B (ultra-fast professional card) and one SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-I and UHS-II compatible with Video Speed Class 90)
• G7 has a single SD/SDHC/SDXC slot (no CFexpress support)

Dual slots allow for simultaneous backup or overflow recording, essential in pro workflows for data security. The GH6’s support of faster CFexpress cards also benefits high bit-rate 4K/6K video capture and rapid burst shooting.

Video Capabilities: Creativity Unleashed

Both cameras appeal to hybrid shooters who value video, but their capabilities couldn't be more different.

The GH6 is a beast for video lovers:

• Captures up to 5760 x 2880 6K at 60p and 4K DCI at 120fps
• Supports popular codecs including MPEG-4, H.264, and H.265
• High-quality mic and headphone ports for pro audio monitoring
• Sensor-based 5-axis IBIS enhances handheld smoothness

The older G7 shoots solid 4K UHD at 30p max and HD at up to 60fps, using older MPEG-4 and AVCHD codecs. While respectable for beginner content creators and casual vloggers, it can’t compete with GH6’s frame rate or resolution.

For video-focused pros, GH6’s specs justify its premium with future-proof quality, while G7 is an affordable stepping stone.

How Different Genres Stack Up

Photography isn’t one-size-fits-all, so let’s see how these cameras perform across genres.

Portraits: GH6 shines with better color depth, skin tone rendition, bokeh control (thanks to higher resolution and better focus precision), and animal/eye AF. G7 is OK for casual portraits but less refined.

Landscapes: GH6’s dynamic range and resolution deliver stunning detail; robust weather sealing wins here. G7 falls behind mainly on resolution and durability.

Wildlife: GH6’s fast burst, advanced AF with animal detection, and IBIS put it way ahead. G7 is usable only for slow-moving subjects.

Sports: Faster frame rate and tracking make GH6 the only viable choice for capturing rapid action.

Street: G7 offers discreet size and lighter weight. GH6’s bigger body may stand out but offers unmatched image quality. For serious street shooters, GH6 holds advantage if discretion is secondary.

Macro: GH6’s precise focus bracketing, stacking, and IBIS help immensely. G7 lacks these features.

Night & Astro: GH6’s better sensor noise handling and exposure modes excel under dark conditions. G7 can do the job but with more noise and less detail.

Video: GH6 is a no-contest winner, appealing to professional videographers.

Travel: G7’s smaller size, lighter weight, and lower price tag make it attractive. GH6 suits travel pros who prioritize quality over pack weight.

Professional Work: Dual card slots, higher bit rates, ruggedness, and enhanced workflows place GH6 in a different league.

Connectivity and Workflow Integration

The GH6 supports USB 3.2 Gen 1, faster wireless built-in WiFi and Bluetooth, and HDMI output suited to professional external monitors. These make tethering and quick transfers smooth for studio or event workflow.

The G7 lags with USB 2.0 only, no Bluetooth, and older WiFi standards. For casual shooting, this may not be a dealbreaker, but professionals will find the GH6 invaluable.

Price and Value: Stretching Your Dollars

Retailing around $2200 body only (GH6) versus $800 body only (G7), the price spread mandates honest reflection. The GH6 commands a premium for bleeding-edge video specs, pro-level stills capabilities, and future-proof technology.

Yet, if you're a hobbyist, weekend warrior, or cheapskate who wants decent 4K video and solid stills, the G7’s value is unbeatable – especially in the secondhand market.

Here’s a quick visual summary of their overall performance ratings:

Pros and Cons at a Glance

Panasonic GH6

Pros

• Pro-grade sensor and video specs
• Robust, sealed construction
• Fast, intelligent autofocus with eye and animal detection
• High-resolution EVF and LCD screen
• IBIS for handheld versatility
• Dual card slots, latest connectivity
• Wide lens compatibility with stabilization support

Cons

• Larger, heavier, less pocketable
• Considerably higher price
• More complex menu system and controls (steep learning curve)

Panasonic G7

Pros

• Lightweight and portable
• Fully articulated touchscreen
• Good image quality for the money
• Simple, approachable autofocus
• Affordable price point
• Decent 4K video for beginners

Cons

• No IBIS
• Limited frame rates and native ISO performance
• No weather sealing
• Single card slot with slower storage
• Older connectivity standards
• Lower resolution EVF and LCD

Who Should Buy Which?

If you've read this far, you're probably close to a buying decision. Here’s my frank advice:

• Choose the Panasonic GH6 if:
  You are a professional photographer or serious enthusiast who demands the highest image and video quality, requires ruggedness for outdoor shoots, needs fast and intelligent autofocus for action or wildlife, and want future-proof features like 6K/120fps video and dual CFexpress card slots. The GH6 is also ideal for hybrid shooters who cross stills and professional video workflows regularly.

• Choose the Panasonic G7 if:
  You’re a beginner, content creator on a budget, or casual photographer who wants a lightweight, easy-to-use camera with decent image quality and basic 4K video capabilities. The G7 offers phenomenal value, especially for learning and travel, without overwhelming you with complicated controls.

Final Thoughts: Modern Flagship vs Capable Workhorse

After living with both Panasonic's GH6 and G7, the difference boils down to intent. The GH6 exudes refined power, precision, and adaptability for those who must push creative boundaries and depend on reliability. The G7, despite its age and older tech, remains surprisingly nimble and friendly for those testing the waters or shooting mostly stills.

Your choice depends on how seriously you take your craft - and budget. If you want flagship video performance and pro-level autofocus, the GH6 is your tool of choice. If you want a friendly first MFT camera at a fair price, the G7 deserves a long look.

In the end, I’ve personally recommended each camera to hundreds of photographers, knowing both gear’s limitations and strengths well. Hopefully, this detailed breakdown helps you walk confidently into your next photographic adventure.

Happy shooting!

Feel free to ask me about lens pairings, specific use cases, or workflow tips for either camera - I’ve tested them extensively in studio and field conditions.