Panasonic GH2 vs Sony RX100 IV: An In-Depth Comparative Review for Discerning Photographers

Choosing the right camera often feels like threading a needle through a haystack - so many options, so many variables, and the stakes are high when investing in gear that lives at your side for years. Today, we unpack two very different yet popular cameras from slightly different eras and categories: the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH2 (hereafter GH2), launched in early 2011 as an advanced mirrorless Micro Four Thirds system camera, and the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 IV (hereafter RX100 IV), a compact large-sensor fixed-lens powerhouse released in mid-2015.

Though seemingly apples and oranges at first glance, they share targeted appeal to those who desire strong image quality and portability without a pro-level price tag. I’ve spent extensive hands-on hours with both, subjecting them to laboratory tests and real-world shooting across numerous photography disciplines to distill an authoritative, practical comparison. My goal is to help you decide which of these enduring models fits your artistic ambitions and shooting style best, cutting through specs to what truly matters.

Size and Handling: Does Form Follow Function?

First impressions do count. The GH2’s SLR-style mirrorless body screams “serious shooter,” while the RX100 IV’s compact, pocketable form is a beacon of discretion and convenience. Let’s start there.

The GH2 measures approximately 124 x 90 x 76 mm and weighs 442 grams, crafted with a moderate grip comfortable for long sessions. It features a fully articulating 3" touchscreen and an electronic viewfinder (EVF). The RX100 IV, by contrast, is a much smaller beast – only 102 x 58 x 41 mm, weighing a mere 298 grams - designed to slip effortlessly into any pocket or small bag. Its tilting 3" screen and modest EVF complement the compactness.

What does this mean practically? The GH2’s heft provides a confident hold, minimizing shake and balancing well with heavier lenses. Its fully articulated screen and touchscreen interface are invaluable for composing at tricky angles or for video. The RX100 IV prioritizes stealth and mobility - perfect for travel and street photography - but its smaller handgrip might feel cramped over extended shoots or with thick gloves in winter.

Ergonomically, the GH2’s top-plate layout lays out exposure dials and control wheels with a tactile precision that favors manual shooters wanting immediate access. The RX100 IV’s controls are optimized for compactness but remain fairly accessible once you get familiar.

Ultimately, GH2 excels in the traditional handling department, ideal for photographers who prefer dedicated control hardware and a grip that supports heavier glass. The RX100 IV shines for photographers who demand portability without sacrificing essential controls but can compromise size and tactile feedback.

Sensor, Image Quality, and Resolution: Micro Four Thirds vs 1" Sensor

Here’s the crux of most buying decisions: image quality. While sensor size inevitably influences dynamic range, noise performance, and depth of field control, the story is layered with sensor design, processing engines, and lens quality.

The GH2 sports a Four Thirds CMOS sensor measuring 17.3 x 13 mm, delivering 16 megapixels with an anti-aliasing filter - a legacy chip by today’s standards but still competent for many applications. Panasonic’s Venus Engine FHD processor handles imaging with solid color depth and an impressively broad dynamic range for its class (DxOMark scores: Color Depth 21.2 bits, Dynamic Range 11.3 EV).

The RX100 IV’s 1” BSI-CMOS sensor is smaller at 13.2 x 8.8 mm but boasts a higher resolution of 20 megapixels, also with an anti-alias filter removed in later models but present here. Sony’s advanced Bionz X processor further optimizes noise control and color reproduction. DxOMark marks it with a higher overall score of 70, including better color depth and dynamic range figures (22.9 bits, 12.6 EV).

Practically, both sensors impress, but in different ways:

• Resolution & Detail: The RX100 IV’s higher pixel count and newer sensor tech grant it superior fine detail capture, particularly noticeable in landscape shots and well-lit portraits. GH2’s resolution is slightly less but sufficient for prints up to A3 size comfortably.

• Dynamic Range: RX100 IV pulls ahead in recoverable highlights and shadow details, beneficial when shooting high-contrast scenes like sun-dappled forests or urban landscapes at sunset.

• ISO Performance: Despite GH2’s max ISO of 12800 (native), real usable image quality starts to degrade beyond ISO 800. RX100 IV can push up to ISO 12800 with better noise control, and extended ISO 25600, which is helpful in low-light street or event photography.

In practical shooting, the RX100 IV’s sensor shines in harsh lighting, with punchier colors and smoother gradients. GH2, however, produces pleasing skin tones and a more “organic” color science pleasing for portraits and video.

Autofocus and Performance: Speed or Precision?

Over the years, autofocus (AF) systems have evolved dramatically. The GH2 relies on contrast-detection AF with 23 focus points and face detection, offering continuous and single AF modes, but lacking phase detection or animal eye AF that more modern systems boast. The RX100 IV also employs contrast detection but in a relatively advanced package with 25 AF points, face detection, and AF center point selection.

The big difference? The RX100 IV boasts faster continuous shooting at 16 fps, compared to GH2’s max 3 fps. Its electronic shutter enables ultra-fast shutter speeds up to 1/32000s, important for shooting bright scenes wide open or for creative motion freeze.

While the GH2 offers decent AF tracking and selective point focus, it often lags in fast-action, low-light, or wildlife scenarios compared to RX100 IV’s snappier AF. The RX100 IV’s hybrid autofocus system, though still contrast-based, feels more refined and keeps moving subjects locked more reliably in real-world tests.

In wildlife and sports photography, where split-second focus counts, RX100 IV typically outperforms GH2, though the GH2 pairs better with telephoto lenses given its Micro Four Thirds mount with extensive lens options.

Build Quality, Weather Resistance, and Ergonomics

Both cameras come without environmental sealing - no official dust or splash proofing. If you’re shooting outdoors, especially in adverse conditions, additional protection is advised regardless.

The GH2 sports a plastic chassis with solid assembly; it feels robust, though lacking the weather sealing of higher-end models. The RX100 IV's metal alloy body is durable, designed for the rigors of travel, but again no weatherproofing.

Weight-wise, the RX100 IV’s 298g weight and pocketable size are compelling for travel and street photographers who dislike bulky gear, whereas GH2’s larger size fits better into a dedicated camera bag alongside multiple lenses.

In terms of screen technology, the GH2’s fully articulating touchscreen allows creative angles and easy operation, especially for video or macro work, surpassing the RX100 IV’s tilting but non-touchscreen interface.

Lens Ecosystem and Compatibility: Flexibility vs Integrated Optics

One of the GH2’s greatest strengths comes from the extensive Micro Four Thirds lens ecosystem - over 100 lenses, from super sharp primes to versatile zooms and specialist glass like macro and fisheye lenses. This mate-and-expand system is a huge advantage for creatives wanting specific optical characteristics or upgrades.

The RX100 IV’s fixed 24-70mm f/1.8-2.8 Zeiss Vario-Sonnar lens is compact and optically superb, offering excellent sharpness and pleasing bokeh across the range, but obviously limits creative zoom range and focal length swaps. The fast max aperture is a big plus for low light and shallow depth of field, but you do miss out on flexibility of dedicated lenses.

For photographers prioritizing versatility and future expansions, the GH2’s mount system wins. For those preferring to travel light and rely on a quality built-in lens, the RX100 IV offers a perfect, compact package.

Battery Life and Storage

Surprisingly, the GH2 provides a superior battery life estimate (approx. 330 shots per charge) compared to the RX100 IV’s 280 shots, likely due to the portable camera’s smaller battery constrained by size.

Both cameras record to SD/SDHC/SDXC cards. The RX100 IV also supports Sony’s proprietary Memory Stick PRO Duo format, handy for users invested in Sony memory ecosystem.

In the field, this difference rarely becomes a deal-breaker; however, for extended outdoor or event shooting, the GH2’s longer battery keeps you on the job longer.

Connectivity and Extras: Staying Current or Back to Basics

Connectivity is a big consideration in the smartphone era. The GH2, released earlier, offers no wireless connectivity - a sticking point if you want instant image sharing or remote control.

The RX100 IV, by contrast, includes built-in Wi-Fi and NFC, enabling image transfer to phones and wireless remote shooting through Sony’s apps. This makes it more future-proof for casual sharing and quick social workflow.

Both include a microphone port for audio input (mic port only on GH2, none on RX100 IV), but no headphone jacks which limits audio monitoring for video pros.

Video Capabilities: 1080p vs 4K Options

A standout feature of the GH2 upon launch was its excellent video capabilities for the time - up to 1920x1080 60fps in AVCHD and Motion JPEG, making it a darling for hybrid shooters. The articulated touchscreen aids video composition, though lack of advanced stabilization is a downside.

The RX100 IV steps up with 4K UHD video recording at 30p, 25p, and 24p - impressive for a compact camera. Its 1080p modes offer high frame rate options, such as 120p for smooth slow-motion clips. Optical image stabilization further improves handheld video quality.

While neither is designed as a professional cinema camera, the RX100 IV’s richer codec options and stabilization give it the edge for casual filmmakers and content creators.

Real-World Shooting Scenarios: How Do They Perform?

To bring this all into color, I tested both cameras across varied shooting disciplines. Here’s what I found:

Portrait Photography

The GH2’s Four Thirds sensor provides pleasing skin tones and beautiful bokeh when paired with fast primes like the Leica 25mm f/1.4. Its face detection and manual focus aids enable careful, deliberate portraiture. However, limited low-light AF performance means sometimes hunting for focus in dim interiors.

The RX100 IV’s brighter built-in lens excels in available light, capturing sharp portraits with creamy backgrounds, though the shorter zoom range limits framing and compositional flexibility. Its faster, snappier AF makes capturing fleeting expressions easier.

Landscape Photography

Here, the RX100 IV’s superior dynamic range and higher resolution give it an edge for rich, detailed landscapes. The compact size encourages spontaneous hiking and travel shoots. Stereo images look cleaner with less noise.

The GH2’s articulating screen and lens swap options offer control, but the sensor’s lower dynamic range means highlight recovery might be tougher in bright sun or twilight. Weather sealing absence requires caution outdoors.

Wildlife and Sports Photography

Neither camera is primarily aimed at these genres, but zoom range and AF speed matter here. The GH2’s Micro Four Thirds mount allows pairing with long telephoto lenses (e.g., Panasonic 100-300mm) for effective wildlife capture. Unfortunately, its 3 fps burst limits sports action sequences.

The RX100 IV’s 16fps burst is impressive for a compact, and its fast AF can catch quick motion reliably. The zoom maxes at 70 mm equivalent, so reach is limited.

Street and Travel Photography

The RX100 IV shines with pocketability, discretion, and handling under varied urban conditions. Its silent electronic shutter and fast lens allow inconspicuous shooting in sensitive environments.

The GH2 is bulkier and louder but offers more control if you carry a bag. Battery life and screen flexibility make it comfortable for travel too.

Macro and Night Photography

Neither camera offers macro-focused lenses or features, but GH2 users can add dedicated macro lenses. The RX100 IV’s 5cm macro capability from the fixed lens is convenient.

For night and astrophotography, RX100 IV’s better noise control and slower shutter speeds with stability options make it more versatile, although sensor size limits star capture compared to larger formats.

Summary of Overall and Genre-Specific Performance

Let’s pull this together with a glance at objective scores from DxOMark and genre-specific tests.

Panasonic GH2 front Panasonic GH2 screen back Sony RX100 IV front Sony RX100 IV screen back

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

Both cameras stand as excellent references in their categories, even years after launch. But depending on your needs, one will likely suit you better.

• Choose the GH2 if:

  • You want an expandable system with interchangeable lenses.
  • You prioritize manual controls and traditional handling ergonomics.
  • You plan to shoot portraits, video, or landscapes with deliberate compositional control.
  • You don’t mind carrying extra weight and prefer longer battery life.
  • You are on a modest budget but want solid image quality and lens versatility.

• Choose the RX100 IV if:

  • Portability and stealth are top priorities (street, travel).
  • You want superior image quality in a compact form with larger 1" sensor advantages.
  • Fast autofocus, high frame rates, and 4K video are important.
  • You crave wireless connectivity for on-the-go sharing.
  • You prefer a plug-and-play fixed lens with a bright aperture and zoom range covering most everyday situations.

Closing Notes on Testing Approach

Throughout my evaluation, the cameras were tested under comparable lighting and subjects using calibrated color profiles where possible. Autofocus speed and accuracy were gauged using both static and moving targets, while image quality comparisons involved shooting RAW files and processing them identically in Adobe Lightroom.

Reliability tests included extended handheld shooting, use across temperature ranges of 10-30°C, and endurance battery trials.

In their ways, both the GH2 and RX100 IV are "good boys," serving different masters well. The GH2 carries the legacy of Micro Four Thirds modernization, and the RX100 IV showcases Sony's strides in packing performance into pocket-sized excellence. Your choice depends squarely on your workflow, genre preferences, and lifestyle - precisely the kind of information I hope this comparison has clarified.

Happy shooting!