Panasonic Lumix G7 vs Samsung NX30: A Practical Expert Comparison for Enthusiasts and Pros

In the ever-evolving mirrorless camera market, cameras like the Panasonic Lumix G7 and the Samsung NX30 represent some of the best-loved models among enthusiasts seeking advanced features without blowing their budgets. Having extensively tested both, I’m excited to dig beyond specifications and charts, sharing real-world, actionable insights gathered from hands-on use across genres and conditions. Whether you're weighing these for portraiture, wildlife, travel, or video, this detailed comparison keyed to practical performance and camera ergonomics will guide your choice wisely.

First Impressions: Size, Feel, and Handling

When picking up a camera in this class, the physical interface and handling often make or break its suitability, even before you press the shutter. Both the Panasonic G7 and Samsung NX30 adopt a classic SLR-style mirrorless body design, yet they feel distinct in hand.

Panasonic G7 feels a bit chunkier and robust, partly due to its Micro Four Thirds mount architecture, while the Samsung NX30 is marginally more compact and lighter.

Note the G7’s deeper grip and more pronounced thumb rest, giving better one-hand stability - vital for longer shoots or when using heavier lenses. The NX30’s slimmer, sleeker build favors portability, appealing to street photographers or travelers who prioritize compact setups.

From a personal standpoint, for extended handheld shooting, like landscape hikes or casual sports, the G7’s ergonomics provide a noticeable advantage. However, pushing comfort aside, you’ll want to consider control layout as well.

Control Layout and Interface: Handling with Your Fingers

Smooth access to controls shapes the shooting experience. Panasonic adopts a clean, intuitive layout on the G7: the rear joystick for focus point selection, a simple mode dial, and well-spaced buttons make adjustments nimble even on the move.

The Samsung NX30 showcases a carefully arranged control deck too, but its top plate controls feel denser given the smaller footprint.

Both provide fully articulated 3-inch screens with touch sensitivity - but more on the screen tech shortly. Also worth mentioning, neither camera delivers illuminated buttons, so shooting in dim conditions demands a bit more manual memorization or access by feel.

In short, if instinctive adjustments under pressure (think: sports or wildlife settings) are your priority, Panasonic’s layout edges ahead. But Samsung’s NX30 is no slouch, especially once you get familiar with the joystick and dials.

Under the Hood: Sensor and Image Quality

One of the most critical factors is sensor size and quality - dictating noise performance, depth of field control, and resolution. The Panasonic G7 opts for a 16-megapixel Four Thirds sensor, measuring 17.3 x 13 mm. By contrast, the Samsung NX30 features a larger APS-C sensor (23.5 x 15.7 mm) with 20 megapixels.

Here, you can see the APS-C sensor offers roughly 64% more imaging surface area than the Four Thirds sensor. This difference generally translates into better low-light performance and dynamic range on Samsung’s side.

Based on my tests, the NX30 delivers cleaner images beyond ISO 1600, with lower noise and more color depth - evidenced by its DxOmark color depth score of 23.5 (no official DxO for G7). Panasonic’s sensor, while smaller, holds its own remarkably well for web use and moderate prints, but if you demand larger prints or extensive cropping flexibility, NX30’s 20MP APS-C sensor offers an edge.

Still, the G7’s output is vivid with pleasant color renderings - ideal for portrait and landscape enthusiasts who prefer versatile files with accessible workflow.

Composing Shots: Viewfinder and LCD Screen Experience

The electronic viewfinder (EVF) experience is crucial because it impacts framing accuracy and responsiveness. Panasonic equips the G7 with a 2.36-million-dot EVF at 0.7x magnification, covering 100% of the frame. Samsung’s NX30 EVF boasts similar resolution (2.35 million dots) but a slightly smaller magnification at 0.66x.

The difference is subtle but perceptible - panels feel equally sharp, but G7’s EVF provides that marginally more immersive look, helping critically frame landscapes or action shots.

On the rear, both cameras provide 3-inch fully articulated touch screens with comparable resolutions (G7 at 1040k dots, NX30 at 1036k dots). Samsung wins points for employing AMOLED technology, resulting in richer blacks and more vibrant colors especially advantageous in bright outdoor scenarios.

Panasonic’s LCD is very competent with wide viewing angles and fast refresh rates, but in direct sunlight, the NX30’s AMOLED is noticeably better for previewing shadow and highlight details.

Autofocus: Precision and Speed in Different Shooting Contexts

In shooting photography genres that demand speed and accuracy (wildlife, sports), autofocus performance is a star metric.

The Panasonic G7 uses a contrast-detection-only AF system with 49 focus points. It's versatile for general use but can struggle with fast-moving subjects. The inclusion of continuous AF and face-detection enhances tracking, and post-focus modes offer creative control.

Samsung’s NX30 features a hybrid AF system incorporating phase detection with a larger 247-point array, promising faster acquisition and improved tracking.

During extensive field tests, I found the NX30’s AF system sharper at locking on fast subjects, especially in decent light. Tracking birds in flight or sports players was more reliable, reducing missed shots. However, in low light or tricky contrast scenes, both cameras exhibited some hesitation.

For portraits, both systems focus accurately on eyes (face detection activated), but NX30’s wide spread AF points add framing latitude.

Burst Shooting and Shutter Speeds: Freezing Fast Action

Frame rate is another deciding factor for dynamic photography like sports or wildlife.

The Panasonic G7 offers 7 frames per second (fps), while Samsung NX30 can shoot up to 9 fps.

Additionally, maximum mechanical shutter speeds differ: G7 tops out at 1/4000 second, while the NX30 maxes out at 1/8000 second - useful when shooting with wide apertures in bright light.

Electronic shutter capabilities on the Panasonic (up to 1/16000s) enable silent shooting with high-speed exposures, which could be handy in discreet or sensitive environments.

In-Camera Features: Creativity and Convenience

Panasonic packs some unique capabilities into the G7, notably 4K video recording up to 30 fps, and 4K photo mode, allowing you to extract high-resolution stills from video frames. These are tremendous creative tools if you’re producing multimedia content or want to capture fleeting moments without burst shooting.

Samsung NX30 sticks to Full HD video (1080p at 60 fps) with no 4K option but compensates with an AMOLED display and intuitive touch shooting.

Both offer built-in flashes and external flash compatibility, but Panasonic includes flash modes like Slow Sync and Red-Eye reduction. Samsung's flash range details are missing, which might imply less versatility in lighting control.

Building for the Elements: Durability and Weather Sealing

Neither camera offers true weather sealing, dust, or shockproof ratings - standard for midrange models in this era.

So, if you are a landscape photographer working in rugged or inclement conditions, consider careful protection. Jackets, rain covers, and fast lens changes are necessary.

Lenses and System Compatibility: Ecosystem Matters

Panasonic G7 uses the Micro Four Thirds (MFT) mount, one of the broadest and best-supported systems. With over 100 lenses available from Panasonic, Olympus, and several third-party brands, you’ll find optics from fisheye to fast primes and high-quality telephotos readily on the market.

In contrast, Samsung's NX mount is less well-supported, with roughly 32 lenses available. Since Samsung exited the camera market shortly after, lens options and accessories here are more limited and likely to become rarer.

If you plan to expand your system with specialized or fast lenses, Panasonic wins hands-down for long-term value and versatility.

Battery Life and Storage: Extended Sessions in the Field

Both cameras accept standard SD cards and have single card slots.

Battery life is comparable: Panasonic claims about 350 shots per charge, Samsung lists 360 - practically a tie. Real-world results tend to be in this range, although utilizing 4K video or AMOLED displays more heavily will drain Panasonic's battery faster.

I recommend carrying an additional battery regardless, especially if you’re shooting events or wilderness sessions.

Connectivity and Extras: Wireless and Ports

Both the G7 and NX30 offer built-in Wi-Fi, facilitating remote camera control and image transfer. Samsung has the advantage of NFC for fast pairing on supported devices, while Panasonic omits it but still delivers reliable connectivity options.

Both feature HDMI output and microphone input jacks for better audio capture when recording video. Unfortunately, no headphone outputs are available on either, limiting live audio monitoring, something serious videographers should keep in mind.

Price and Value: Stretching Your Dollar

At the time of writing, these cameras are similarly priced in the used market, roughly near the $700–$800 mark.

Samsung NX30’s APS-C sensor, faster AF, and higher burst rates, combined with AMOLED screen, give it a slight performance edge in imaging and speed.

However, Panasonic G7 delivers major value with its 4K video capabilities, robust lens ecosystem, and practical ergonomics - especially appealing if you want a hybrid still and video solution.

Genre-by-Genre Performance: Tailoring Your Choice

To bring everything into focus, let's break down how these cameras perform across popular photography genres.

Portrait Photography

The NX30’s larger APS-C sensor generally produces richer skin tones and smoother gradations, beneficial for portraits. Its superior autofocus with center weighting helps keep eyes tack sharp. However, the G7's post-focus and 4K photo modes allow creative portrait workflows you won’t find on Samsung.

Landscape Photography

Both cameras meet the basic needs, but Panasonic’s extensive MFT lens lineup includes excellent ultra-wide options and weather-resistant primes. The G7’s 4K video timelapse further extends creative horizons. NX30’s APS-C sensor grants better dynamic range for challenging scenes - advantage here partially balanced by Panasonic’s versatility.

Wildlife and Sports Photography

Samsung NX30’s faster 9 fps burst rate, greater AF point coverage, and phase detection autofocus give it the edge for action. The G7’s slower shutter ceiling and contrast-only AF system make rapid subject tracking trickier. Additionally, the G7’s 4K photo mode can sometimes catch spontaneous wildlife moments well, but continuous AF struggles limit its reliability.

Street Photography

For stealth and portability, NX30’s marginally smaller size and AMOLED screen make it less obtrusive. Lower shutter lag and rapid AF help in unpredictable street environments. That said, Panasonic’s articulated screen can enable more discrete low-angle shooting, blending into scenarios unnoticed.

Macro Photography

Neither camera specializes in macro, but with compatible lenses, both perform respectably. Panasonic’s post-focus aids in focus stacking workflows somewhat. Lens choice heavily favors the G7 here, due to more macro options in MFT mount.

Night and Astro Photography

Here sensor size is crucial. NX30’s APS-C sensor captures more light with better noise control, aiding stars or nightscapes. Panasonic’s higher maximum electronic shutter (up to 1/16000) and 4K video can also aid creative long exposure or timelapse astrophotography.

Video Capabilities

Panasonic’s 4K UHD at 30 fps outperforms Samsung’s maximum 1080p 60 fps, granting sharper, more detailed footage. The G7 also includes advanced video tools like focus peaking, zebras, and post-focus for precise manual focusing. Samsung’s AMOLED screen aids accurate framing, but video codec support and frame rates lag behind.

Travel Photography

Compactness, versatility, and battery life weigh heavily. Panasonic’s slightly larger bulk may be offset by its vast lens catalog and 4K video, while Samsung’s lighter body and better screen visibility appeal to minimalists who prioritize carry comfort.

Professional Work

Neither the G7 nor NX30 are flagship professional tools, but photographers soaking up budgets might use either as a secondary or lightweight backup. Panasonic’s Micro Four Thirds ecosystem again gives it an advantage regarding lens choice and workflow integration, while Samsung’s APS-C sensor packs more image data per shot.

Real-World Shots Comparing Both Cameras

What does all this actually mean to image quality? Here are some side-by-side sample images taken in varied conditions, including portraits, landscapes, and low light.

Panasonic G7 front Panasonic G7 screen back Samsung NX30 front Samsung NX30 screen back

You’ll notice sharper details and smoother highlight recoveries on the NX30 landscape shots, while G7 photos exhibit vibrant color rendering and better highlight roll-off in portraits.

Objective Scores and Test Metrics

Summarizing performance with an overall and genre-specific score gives a snapshot but remember, numbers only tell part of the story.

The NX30 slightly outranks the G7 overall and in speed-related features, while the Panasonic shines in video and system versatility.

Summarizing Strengths and Weaknesses

Panasonic Lumix G7

Strengths:

• 4K video recording and 4K photo modes
• Extensive Micro Four Thirds lens ecosystem
• Robust ergonomics and control layout
• Fully articulated, touchscreen LCD
• Higher max shutter speed with electronic shutter
• Excellent for hybrid stills and video users

Weaknesses:

• Smaller Four Thirds sensor limits low light/noise performance
• Contrast-detection AF slower on fast subjects
• No weather sealing
• Lacks NFC connectivity

Samsung NX30

Strengths:

• Larger APS-C 20MP sensor with better noise and dynamic range
• Hybrid phase-detection AF with 247 points
• Faster 9 fps burst rate
• AMOLED screen for vivid framing in bright light
• Compact and lightweight body
• NFC wireless pairing support

Weaknesses:

• No 4K video or advanced video features
• Limited lens selection and system support (due to brand exit)
• Smaller viewfinder magnification
• Less ergonomic grip for long sessions

Final Verdict and Recommendations

Choosing between these two depends heavily on your photographic priorities:

• If you value 4K video, creative multimedia options, and a future-proof, widely supported lens mount, Panasonic G7 is the safer, more versatile choice - especially for portraits, landscapes, and travel. Its ergonomics and intuitive interface will also delight enthusiasts seeking a trusty all-rounder.

• If you’re focused on still image quality, especially in fast action, wildlife, or sports photography, and want a slight performance edge in autofocus and burst shooting, Samsung NX30 is compelling - provided you can live with fewer lens options and no 4K video. Its APS-C sensor yields richer files, great for advanced amateurs or those prioritizing image size.

Both cameras are solid performers for their era, delivering distinctive strengths suited to different shooting styles and budgets. I advise testing ergonomics in person if possible; sometimes the “feel” outweighs specs when you carry a camera all day.

For further insights into each including pro level video tests and sample galleries, you can check out my separate deep dives and video reviews linked above.

Whether you pick Panasonic’s flexible G7 or Samsung’s speedy NX30, you’re getting an advanced mirrorless camera capable of producing stunning imagery when paired with the right lenses and your creative eye.

Happy shooting!