Panasonic G85 vs Sony RX100 V: An In-Depth Hands-On Comparison for Serious Photogs

Choosing between the Panasonic Lumix G85 and the Sony RX100 V is a deceptively complex decision. Both debuted around late 2016 with solid reputations, but they cater to distinct photography approaches. After testing these two thoroughly across genres, I’ll unpack their real-world strengths, technical merits, and eventual best-fit users. No sales fluff here - just experience-backed, deep-dives to empower your next camera choice.

Body and Handling: Size, Ergonomics, and Controls

At first glance, the Panasonic G85 and Sony RX100 V couldn’t be more different in size and design philosophy. The G85 is a Micro Four Thirds mirrorless camera with an SLR-style body; it weighs 505g and measures 128 x 89 x 74 mm. In contrast, the RX100 V is a large-sensor compact at just 299g and 102 x 58 x 41 mm. This massive size gap translates directly to handling differences.

The G85 offers considerable heft and a deep, comfortable grip that really shines on extended shoots and with larger lenses. Controls are logically placed for quick access, letting you adjust aperture, shutter, ISO, and exposure compensation without menu diving. The fully articulating touchscreen is responsive and intuitive, especially useful for video and macro work.

The RX100 V's compactness makes it pocketable and ideal for street or travel photographers prioritizing discretion and portability. Its tilting screen isn’t touchscreen-enabled, which can frustrate users coming from touch-first workflows, but it tilts up and down at useful angles. The button layout is tight but well thought out given the diminutive body size.

As you can see above, the G85’s larger real estate allows Panasonic to pack more direct controls, including dedicated dials and buttons that streamline shooting workflows. The RX100 V compensates with a solid electronic viewfinder but relies more on multifunction buttons and a control wheel, which can require more menu navigation.

User takeaway: If you prize grip and top-tier control customization, G85 is the hands-down winner. For travelers and street shooters who need stealth and pocketability, RX100 V strikes a better balance.

Sensor and Image Quality: The Heart of the Matter

Here’s where the story gets intriguing. Panasonic’s G85 sports a 16MP Four Thirds sensor (17.3x13mm), while Sony’s RX100 V packs a 20MP 1-inch BSI-CMOS sensor (13.2x8.8mm). The G85’s sensor area is nearly double that of the RX100 V, which traditionally benefits dynamic range, noise performance, and depth of field control.

When conducting lab tests and field shoots, the G85's sensor shines in delivering wide dynamic range - around 12.5 EV per DXO Mark - and clean files up to ISO 1600. Noise starts creeping in mildly at 3200 ISO, but it remains usable. Color depth measured 22.8 bits, revealing vibrant yet accurate skin tones and natural greens in landscapes.

The RX100 V holds its own impressively for a compact, scoring 12.4 EV dynamic range and 22.8 bits color depth as well. That back-illuminated sensor design along with Sony’s image processing gives it an edge in high ISO noise characteristics compared to typical 1-inch sensors. Low-light ISO usability extends up to ISO 3200 for clean shots but dips earlier than the Micro Four Thirds sensor beyond ISO 6400.

A minor caveat: the RX100 V retains an anti-aliasing filter, slightly reducing fine detail rendition compared to the G85’s filterless setup. This difference is subtle but evident in pixel-peeping landscape crops.

Bottom line: Panasonic’s larger sensor imparts slightly better image fidelity and noise control in most scenarios, especially beneficial in controlled portrait and landscape work. The RX100 V proves that great results can come from smaller sensors given smart design but can’t quite match full-frame or Four Thirds sizes for ultimate quality.

LCD and Electronic Viewfinder - Seeing Is Believing

Both cameras provide 3-inch displays, with the RX100 V offering a slightly higher resolution (1229k dots vs. 1040k on the G85). However, Panasonic's fully articulated touchscreen grants it superior versatility for videographers and macro shooters, allowing for comfortable low- and high-angle framing.

The electronic viewfinders (EVF) have comparable resolution (roughly 2360k dots), but the G85’s EVF has a higher magnification at 0.74x vs. 0.59x for the RX100 V. The G85's EVF feels larger and less cramped, which eases manual focusing and composition under bright sunlight.

Though the RX100 V’s EVF is slightly smaller, it feels sharp and fast with minimal lag - key for fast-paced street or wildlife shooting.

Autofocus Systems: Speed and Accuracy in the Field

Panasonic embraces contrast-detection autofocus in the G85 with 49 focus points and face detection. While it doesn’t have phase-detection AF, it delivers respectable continuous autofocus and tracking for an MFT model of its era. However, the lack of phase detection means slightly slower AF in low contrast and dim conditions.

Sony’s RX100 V employs a hybrid AF system merging phase and contrast detection with a whopping 315 focus points covering most of the image area. This translates to blazing-fast autofocus acquisition (approx. 0.05 seconds) and excellent subject tracking, even in complex scenes or erratic subjects.

The RX100 V’s AF shines in wildlife and sports settings where split-second reaction times matter - though the G85 holds its ground reasonably well given its segment.

Neither offers animal eye-AF, which is becoming common in newer models, but both handle human eye-detection competently.

Burst Shooting and Buffer Performance

Sports and wildlife shooters often want more than raw IQ - they want fast frame rates paired with ample buffers.

• Panasonic G85: 9 fps continuous shooting with focus tracking.
• Sony RX100 V: 24 fps burst, albeit with focus and exposure locked from the first frame.

The RX100 V’s 24 fps is impressive and useful for peak action capture but with focus fixed on the initial frame, which limits practical use for dynamic subjects unless your tracking is spot-on. The G85’s slower 9 fps uses autofocus tracking throughout the burst, preferred for moving subjects despite the lower frame rate.

Buffer depths also favor the RX100 V for raw shooting, enabling longer bursts without slowdown, while the G85 can fill up faster depending on card speed.

Video Capabilities: Which One Delivers?

Both cameras support 4K UHD recording at 30fps, but Panasonic leans into hybrid shooters with more video-friendly controls and features.

• Panasonic G85:

  • 4K (3840x2160) at 30p and 100 Mbps, utilizes the MP4 and AVCHD codecs.
  • Sensor-based 5-axis image stabilization (helpful for handheld video).
  • Fully articulating touchscreen.
  • Microphone input.
  • Advanced video modes including focus peaking and zebras.

• Sony RX100 V:

  • 4K UHD at 30p, recording in XAVC S, MP4, H.264 in variable bit rates up to 100 Mbps.
  • Optical image stabilization integrated into lens.
  • No mic or headphone ports.
  • Tilting LCD but no touchscreen.
  • Timelapse recording via downloadable app.

Panasonic’s 5-axis IBIS combined with the articulating screen and external mic port makes it a preferable choice for independent filmmakers or vloggers on a budget. The RX100 V is a capable 4K shooter, but lacks the pro video ergonomic features that give Panasonic an edge.

Lens Ecosystem and Flexibility

One clear advantage of the G85 is its Micro Four Thirds mount supporting over 100 native lens options from Panasonic, Olympus, and third parties. This opens enormous creative possibilities from ultra-wide landscapes to telephoto wildlife and professional-grade macro optics.

The RX100 V’s fixed lens covers a versatile 24-70mm equivalent range with a bright f/1.8-2.8 aperture - great for everyday shooting and low light. But it cannot match the versatility of interchangeable lens systems. Macro capabilities stand out with 5 cm focusing but limited magnification compared to specialized lenses available for the G85.

For photogs who value optical diversity and creative control, the G85’s system clearly wins.

Weather Resistance and Build Quality

(Revisited for materials closeup)

The G85 comes with environmental sealing - dust and splash-resistant construction - something traveling outdoor shooters will appreciate. While not fully weatherproof, it allows shooting in some demanding conditions without fear.

The RX100 V, built as a compact, does not offer any weather resistance, meaning caution is necessary in inclement weather.

Battery Life and Storage Solutions

Panasonic's G85 outlasts Sony’s RX100 V comfortably, rated at 330 shots per charge compared to approximately 220 shots on the RX100 V. Real-world usage echoes the numbers, thanks largely to the RX100 V's power demands for its EVF and continuous AF bursts.

Both cameras utilize SD cards, but the RX100 V also accepts Sony’s Memory Stick formats, which may or may not be an advantage depending on your existing storage gear.

Connectivity and Wireless Features

Both cameras include built-in Wi-Fi for image transfer and remote shooting. The RX100 V uniquely supports NFC pairing, simplifying connections with compatible smartphones. Neither supports Bluetooth.

The Panasonic’s USB 2.0 port limits fast tethered workflows but allows charging and file transfer. Both support HDMI output for tethered shooting or external monitors.

Practical Photography Applications

Let’s now evaluate how each camera performs across common photography genres based on my testing under varied conditions.

Portrait Photography

• Panasonic G85: The larger sensor and absence of an anti-aliasing filter enhance detail and skin texture rendering. Color depth supports natural skin tones, and the 5-axis stabilization supports handheld portraits in low light. Eye detection AF is reliable, aiding sharp focus capture.

• Sony RX100 V: The fast lens (f/1.8-2.8) produces commendable background separation and bokeh for a compact, though sensor size limits DOF control compared to the G85. Eye AF works but less effective in complex backgrounds.

Landscape Photography

The G85’s higher dynamic range and resolution allow exceptional landscape capture with nuanced shadows and highlights; environmental sealing adds confidence outdoors. Panasonic’s extensive lens options cover ultra-wide angles for sweeping vistas.

Sony’s RX100 V delivers good image quality but limited by smaller sensor area and fixed lens zoom range. Portability is a plus but sacrifices ultimate image fidelity on large prints.

Wildlife and Sports Photography

Fast autofocus and burst speed matter here.

• RX100 V: Superior autofocus system and extremely high burst rate (24fps). However, focus lock during burst limits tracking moving subjects dynamically.

• G85: Offers continuous AF during 9fps bursts, helping track unpredictable subjects. Combined with longer lens options, this setup is more practical for hobbyist wildlife shooters.

Street and Travel Photography

The RX100 V’s compact form factor and unobtrusive lens make it an excellent street and travel camera where discretion is key. Battery life and lens range suffice for casual travel use when weight and size are critical.

Panasonic G85 is bulkier but offers more flexibility, especially for diverse travel photography involving landscape, portraits, and occasional wildlife.

Macro and Close-Up

Panasonic’s ability to use dedicated macro lenses, coupled with focus stacking and focus bracketing features, makes it a superior choice for dedicated macro photographers.

Sony’s RX100 V offers a respectable 5cm minimum focusing distance, but results cannot match specialized macro glass.

Night and Astro Photography

Low-light performance is decent on both, but sensor size favors the G85 for cleaner high-ISO shots. Lack of extended bulb mode or T-mode on the RX100 V restricts astro photography capabilities.

Overall Performance Ratings

According to DXOMark benchmarks:

• Panasonic G85 scores 71 overall.
• Sony RX100 V scores 70 overall.

They are neck and neck, underscoring the different trade-offs in sensor design and camera features.

Genre-Specific Recommendations and User Profiles

*Wildlife shooters need longer lenses; RX100’s zoom range is limited but autofocus is superior. Serious wildlife photographers may outgrow both and look to APS-C/Full-frame setups.

Price-to-Performance Assessment

At launch, the G85 retails around $900, and the RX100 V roughly $999. The G85 offers a full Micro Four Thirds body plus access to hundreds of lenses, making it a compelling value long-term. The RX100 V’s specialized compactness and advanced AF justify its price for users prioritizing travel and street photography.

Final Thoughts and Buying Advice

After putting these two through rigorous, genre-spanning testing - from dawn landscapes and fast-paced basketball games to night skies and street markets - the choice comes down to your shooting style and priorities.

• Choose Panasonic Lumix G85 if you want:

  • Interchangeable lenses with creative control
  • Better ergonomics and weather sealing
  • Superior video features and stabilization
  • Balanced all-around image quality for portraits, landscapes, and low light

• Choose Sony RX100 V if you want:

  • Ultimate pocket portability with large sensor image quality
  • Lightning-fast autofocus and very high burst rate
  • Simple, all-in-one compact travel camera without fuss
  • Street photography stealth and convenience

Remember, no camera is perfect or a “one-size-fits-all” solution - your workload and use cases will dictate the ideal fit.

Both these cameras from 2016 still hold considerable relevance today for enthusiasts on a budget weighing portability, image quality, and performance carefully.

Sample Image Gallery: Real-World Results Side-by-Side

Panasonic G85 front Sony RX100 V front Sony RX100 V screen back

These crops demonstrate texture, sharpness, color rendition, and bokeh characteristics. Notice the Panasonic G85’s smoother gradients and richer tonal detail in shadows, especially useful for portraits and landscape nuances, while the Sony RX100 V impresses with crispness and excellent low-light control for its compact class.

By sharing this detailed comparison and hands-on insights, I hope to clarify the strengths and compromises involved in choosing between the Panasonic G85 and Sony RX100 V. Shoot well - wherever your photographic journey takes you.

End of review