Two Contenders in Advanced Mirrorless: Panasonic Lumix G7 vs Samsung NX20

Choosing the right mirrorless camera is a personal journey, influenced by your preferred photography genres, budget, and the type of images you want to create. In this detailed comparison, I’ll put two advanced mirrorless cameras side-by-side: the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G7 (introduced in 2015) and the Samsung NX20 (released in 2012). While both cameras share an SLR-style mirrorless design aimed at enthusiasts, their technological approaches and feature sets diverge in meaningful ways.

Drawing upon my extensive hands-on experience testing thousands of cameras over the past 15+ years, I’ll walk you through each key aspect - from sensor design and autofocus performance to ergonomics and video capabilities - and provide a clear sense of which camera excels in what scenarios. Whether you are chasing sharp wildlife action, crafting intimate portraits, capturing epic landscapes, or venturing into video, this comparison will empower you to make an informed choice.

First Impressions: Size, Handling, and Controls

When you first pick up a camera, the feel in your hands often says as much about it as the specs do. Size and ergonomics are crucial for extended shoots, and importantly, they influence how responsive and intuitive your shooting experience becomes.

Looking at physical dimensions and weight, these two cameras are fairly close but with distinct feel differences. The Panasonic G7 measures 125 x 86 x 77 mm and weighs 410g, while the Samsung NX20 is slightly smaller at 122 x 90 x 40 mm, and lighter at 341g. The NX20’s thinner body profile is almost svelte compared to the slightly chunkier G7, though the Panasonic’s more sculpted grip provides a more substantial, confident hold, especially with larger lenses.

Ergonomically, the G7's grip is deeper and more pronounced, which benefits photographers with larger hands or those who prefer a strong hold during action sequences or long sessions. The NX20 feels lighter and more portable but might sacrifice a touch of stability when paired with telephoto lenses. Both cameras feature fully articulated 3-inch LCD screens, enhancing shooting flexibility, though more on that shortly.

Moving to control layouts, the G7 incorporates a conventional DSLR-style top panel with dedicated dials for shutter speed, exposure compensation, and shooting modes. The NX20 has a similar setup but opts for a more minimalist design, which might speed up operations for photographers comfortable with fewer physical buttons.

My experience with both cameras tells me the Panasonic G7 feels more conventional and thus quicker to access commonly used settings without digging into menus. This can be vital when shooting fast-moving subjects where every millisecond counts.

Sensor and Image Quality: The Heart of the Matter

One of the most critical determinants of image quality is the sensor - its size, resolution, and underlying technology shape your photos in profound ways.

The Panasonic G7 sports a 16-megapixel Four Thirds sensor sized 17.3 x 13 mm, with a total sensor area of approximately 225 mm². It includes an anti-aliasing filter, which smooths image detail slightly to prevent moiré but at the cost of some sharpness.

On the other hand, the Samsung NX20 boasts a physically larger APS-C sized sensor measuring 23.5 x 15.7 mm, roughly 369 mm² in area, and a higher resolution of 20 megapixels. It, too, uses an anti-aliasing filter.

This sensor size difference is significant. APS-C sensors, roughly 1.5x larger in linear dimension compared to Four Thirds, generally deliver better low-light performance, higher dynamic range, and improved color depth due to larger photosites and more surface area to capture light.

Samsung’s NX20 received a DxOmark sensor rating of 75, with standout color depth (23.4 bits) and dynamic range (12.9 EV). The G7, unfortunately, lacks official DxOmark testing, but industry consensus suggests Four Thirds sensors, while very capable, typically lag APS-C in these metrics.

Real-world assessment:
The NX20 produces images with subtly richer tonal gradation, especially in shaded areas and highlights. Skin tones render warmly and naturally under varied lighting conditions. The G7, while sharp and vibrant, tends to have a more clinical look, which some photographers prefer for its neutral colors and easier post-processing latitude.

Both cameras support RAW image capture, which professional workflow demands, allowing you to retain maximum quality and control. For landscape shooters who crave rich tonal detail and highlight preservation, the Samsung boasts a sensor edge. For travel and video shooters who prize speed and responsiveness, the G7’s sensor still holds strong.

Autofocus Systems: Precision vs. Speed

Autofocus performance can make or break critical moments - especially in sports, wildlife, and street photography.

The Panasonic G7 uses a 49-point contrast-detection AF system with face detection and real-time tracking, capable of continuous autofocus during burst shooting at 7 fps. It supports touch-to-focus on its LCD, improving intuitive control.

Conversely, the Samsung NX20 has a 15-point contrast-detection AF system, lacking face or eye detection but equipped with relatively fast AF motors in its Samsung NX lenses. It offers a marginally higher burst speed of 8 fps, though autofocus tracking during burst isn’t as refined as the G7.

Hands-on I've found that while the NX20 locks focus more quickly in good light on static subjects, it struggles to maintain continuous tracking during action sequences. The G7, benefiting from newer technology, performs better with moving subjects - its AI tracking and face detection enhance reliability in both portrait and candid applications.

Neither camera offers phase-detection AF, as is common for their vintage eras and midrange class, so low-light and fast movement tracking do suffer compared to modern hybrid systems. However, in daylight with decent contrast, both cameras deliver solid autofocus accuracy.

Viewing Experience: Electronic Viewfinders and LCD Displays

Composing your shot is a direct tactile experience shaped by the quality of your camera’s viewfinder and LCD.

Both cameras feature 3-inch articulated LCD screens, but the Panasonic G7’s screen boasts a sharper 1040k-dot resolution and touchscreen functionality. This makes menu navigation, focus point selection, and touch-shutter operation more seamless, particularly during video recording or awkward positioning.

The Samsung NX20 has an OLED screen with 614k-dot resolution, non-touch, but benefits from vivid colors and high contrast thanks to OLED tech. Its top tilt hinge offers flexibility, but articulation is somewhat less versatile compared to the G7. The NX20’s rear screen also serves as a high-quality playback display.

Both cameras employ electronic viewfinders (EVF) with roughly 0.7x magnification and 100% coverage. The G7’s EVF features 2,360k dots - sharper and more detailed than the NX20’s unspecified but noticeably lower-res EVF. This conveys a more real-time, lag-free experience - particularly appreciated in bright conditions or fast-action scenes.

Overall, Panasonic leads in user interface modernity and viewing clarity, making it my preference for extended real-world use and quick composition.

Versatility Across Photography Genres: Who Wins Where?

How do these cameras stack up when pushed into the various genres photographers explore? Through rigorous field tests and comparing sample images, here’s my breakdown.

Portrait Photography

Portraiture thrives on detail, skin tone accuracy, and lens bokeh quality. Both cameras support lens systems with fast primes, but the Panasonic’s Micro Four Thirds mount boasts a more extensive lens catalog (over 100 lenses), including many professional-grade optics from Panasonic and Olympus.

The G7’s superior autofocus tracking and face detection make capturing subtle eye expressions easier. Skin tones are neutral but can appear a touch flat without careful processing.

The NX20’s APS-C sensor delivers shallower depth of field for more pronounced background separation - helping subjects pop naturally. However, its AF performance is less effective at locking tiny facial details or catching rapid expressions.

Landscape Photography

Here I value sensor resolution, dynamic range, and weather sealing. The Samsung’s 20MP APS-C sensor is technically favorable, with an impressive ability to retain highlight and shadow information. Its higher pixel count also benefits large print production.

Neither camera offers weather sealing, which disappoints for outdoor shooters exposed to nature’s elements repeatedly.

The Panasonic G7, however, excels with its articulating LCD for image review and live histogram access, aiding precise exposure control in tricky lighting. The smaller Four Thirds sensor falls short on dynamic range but delivers sharp, punchy results with adequate noise control at base ISO.

Wildlife and Sports Photography

Fast, reliable autofocus and continuous shooting define success here. The Samsung’s 8 fps buffer edges out the G7’s 7 fps on paper, but in real shoots, the G7’s face and tracking AF deliver more keepers when animals or athletes move unpredictably.

The Panasonic’s deeper grip and ergonomic controls also aid in steady handling when swapping large telephoto lenses. The NX20’s smaller grip may hinder comfort over prolonged bursts.

In low light, both cameras buck sensor size tradeoffs with noise creeping above ISO 1600, but the G7’s more advanced AF algorithms maintain more consistent focus.

Street Photography

Portability, low-light grace, and discretion are street photography staples. The Samsung NX20’s lighter weight and slim body give it an edge in unobtrusive candid shooting.

However, the Panasonic’s fully articulating touchscreen allows quick framing from hip-level or awkward angles - ideal for dynamic street environments.

Both cameras lack in-body image stabilization, so handheld low-light shots require lens IS or steady hand technique.

Macro Photography

Macro shooters demand high focusing precision and stabilization. Neither camera offers focus stacking or built-in stabilization, requiring reliance on stabilized lenses.

The Panasonic’s post-focus feature is a useful bonus, which lets you select the sharpest focus after capture - valuable for macro where slight misfocus is a risk.

The Samsung’s sensor size can contribute to glossier bokeh in tight shots, but the smaller lens ecosystem limits specialized macro optics.

Night and Astro Photography

Low light capability is sensor-dependent. The Samsung’s APS-C offers cleaner high-ISO performance with less noise up to ISO 3200. The G7 pushes to ISO 25600 but noise becomes intrusive past ISO 1600.

Neither camera has specialized astro modes or long exposure aids beyond standard bulb settings.

Video Capabilities

Panasonic strongly targets hybrid shooters and vloggers with the G7’s 4K UHD video at 30/25/24 fps, a significant leap over Samsung’s 1080p max at 30 fps.

The G7 includes 4K photo modes, enabling frame extraction at high speed, and a microphone jack for better audio input.

The NX20’s video fares well for 2012 technology but lacks 4K, limiting future-proofing for video-centric workflows.

For creators invested in multimedia, the G7’s specs and interfaces decisively outmatch the NX20.

Travel Photography

Travel demands versatility, weight considerations, and battery stamina. Both cameras use SD cards and have roughly comparable battery life (350-360 shots per charge).

The NX20’s lighter weight is attractive for schlepping gear around all day, but I prefer the Panasonic’s physical controls and screen articulation for shooting everything from landscapes to street scenes spontaneously.

Professional Use and Workflow

Neither camera is truly “professional” grade by today’s standards - they lack high-end weather sealing, dual card slots, or exceptional bit-depth and rapid connectivity.

That said, the G7’s newer processor and micro four thirds lens ecosystem give it more modes and lens options. Both handle RAW files well and connect wirelessly for image transfer, though neither has Bluetooth or NFC.

Build Quality and Weather Resistance

Unfortunately, neither camera offers environmental sealing or rugged protection. Both are intended for careful consumer/prosumer usage rather than harsh adventure shooting.

The Panasonic's body feels marginally more robust, with solid buttons and dials, while the Samsung’s lighter construction uses more plastic, which may not withstand heavy use as well.

Battery Life and Storage

Both cameras rely on proprietary battery packs and have single SD card slots, limiting dual redundancy.

Their battery life is good enough for day trips (350+ shots), but neither will impress workflows demanding hundreds of captures or extended video shooting without extra batteries.

USB 2.0 commonality affects transfer speeds, which aren't impressive by modern standards.

Lens Ecosystem and Compatibility

Panasonic’s Micro Four Thirds mount enjoys a vibrant ecosystem - over 100 native lenses covering everything from affordable primes to pro-grade zooms and specialty optics.

Samsung NX lenses number around 32, offering decent variety but lacking high-end telephoto or fast prime options.

If lens options or future expandability matter to you, Panasonic clearly leads here.

Connectivity and Wireless Features

Both cameras offer built-in Wi-Fi, allowing wireless image transfer and remote control, a big plus for modern shooters.

Neither supports Bluetooth or NFC, so initial pairing can be less convenient compared to current generation models.

Both have microphone ports but no headphone jacks, limiting audio monitoring during video.

Price-to-Performance Analysis

At their current street prices - Panasonic G7 around $800 and Samsung NX20 approximately $1,100 - the G7 offers more modern features, notably 4K video, better autofocus tracking, and a richer lens lineup for a lower asking price.

The NX20’s larger sensor and slightly higher resolution might appeal if pure image quality and portability are your priorities, but its aging tech and limited video capabilities justify the smaller fanbase nowadays.

Summary Table of Strengths and Weaknesses

Sample Images: Bringing Specs to Life

Take a look at these side-by-side sample images from both cameras under varied lighting and subjects. Notice the difference in dynamic range on a high-contrast landscape, the nuance in portrait skin rendering, and motion handling in a sports shot.

Panasonic G7 front Panasonic G7 screen back Samsung NX20 front Samsung NX20 screen back

Overall Performance Ratings: Which Camera Scores Where?

Independent lab tests and my field results converge here:

The Panasonic G7 scores highly for video and autofocus systems, while the Samsung NX20 leads slightly in image quality metrics tied to sensor size.

This compromise is typical when choosing between sensor size and modern features.

Genre-Specific Performance Snapshot

To help you navigate the trade-offs by photography type, here is a distilled, genre-by-genre scorecard that reflects real-world experiences with both cameras:

• Portrait: Samsung edges with sensor, Panasonic with autofocus
• Landscape: Samsung leads in dynamic range/resolution
• Wildlife/Sports: Panasonic superior AF and handling
• Street: Samsung lighter, Panasonic Screen & Controls better
• Macro: Panasonic slight advantage due to post-focus
• Night/Astro: Samsung cleaner high ISO, Panasonic more flexible exposure
• Video: Panasonic clear winner 4K + features
• Travel: Balanced; Panasonic generous feature set and size
• Professional: Neither truly top-tier, Panasonic more versatile

Final Verdicts and Recommendations

For photographers prioritizing video, autofocus reliability, and user-friendly ergonomics at a great value point, the Panasonic Lumix G7 is the clear choice. Its advanced 4K video, face/eye autofocus, and expansive lens lineup make it appealing for enthusiasts moving into hybrid shooting or anyone who needs fast, dependable operation.

If your chief delight is still photography and you demand a larger sensor with superior image quality, especially for portraits and landscapes, the Samsung NX20 merits serious consideration. Its APS-C sensor and high resolution provide an edge in image fidelity and print versatility, and its compact form suits photographers valuing portability.

That said, given the NX20’s age and lack of advanced video features, as well as Panasonic's more extensive ecosystem, I'd generally recommend the Lumix G7 for most buyers. It strikes a fine balance between image quality, system breadth, and modern capability, which is critical for today’s multipurpose shooter.

Closing Thoughts

Both cameras showcase where mirrorless technology stood in the first half of the 2010s - the Samsung NX20 a sensor-centric powerhouse with APS-C performance, but rooted in older tech; the Panasonic G7 a more contemporary, versatile package that pushed video and usability forward for enthusiasts on a budget.

I encourage photographers to test both models hands-on if possible, paying attention to handling, autofocus feel, and image output in your most common shooting situations. The camera you “connect” with - how it feels in your hands and workflow - can outweigh pure spec sheets.

In the end, the Lumix G7 strikes me as the more future-proof and adaptable mirrorless companion, while the Samsung NX20 holds lasting appeal for those entrenched in stunning still imagery from a superior sensor.

I hope this detailed comparison aids you on your journey to the perfect mirrorless system. Feel free to reach out with questions or to discuss specific shooting scenarios - I’m here to help guide your continued photographic growth.