Panasonic GX85 vs Panasonic L10
83 Imaging
54 Features
76 Overall
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66 Imaging
44 Features
38 Overall
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Panasonic GX85 vs Panasonic L10 Key Specs
(Full Review)
- 16MP - Four Thirds Sensor
- 3" Tilting Screen
- ISO 200 - 25600
- Sensor based 5-axis Image Stabilization
- No Anti-Alias Filter
- 3840 x 2160 video
- Micro Four Thirds Mount
- 426g - 122 x 71 x 44mm
- Launched April 2016
- Other Name is Lumix DMC-GX80 / Lumix DMC-GX7 Mark II
(Full Review)
- 10MP - Four Thirds Sensor
- 2.5" Fixed Screen
- ISO 100 - 1600
- No Video
- Micro Four Thirds Mount
- 556g - 135 x 96 x 78mm
- Released December 2007

Panasonic GX85 vs L10: An In-Depth Comparison for Imaging Enthusiasts on a Journey
Choosing the right camera can feel overwhelming amid decades of innovation and model choices like the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX85 (hereafter “GX85”) and the older Panasonic Lumix DMC-L10 (“L10”). These two cameras, though sharing the Panasonic name and Micro Four Thirds lens mount, sit far apart in technological generations and design philosophy. Whether you are a curious enthusiast, a hybrid photo-video creator, or a pro in search of a lightweight backup, understanding their respective features, real-world performance, and value will help you decide which suits your needs best.
We’ve personally tested both cameras extensively, pushing their bodies, sensors, and features through varied shooting scenarios to provide you a fair, insightful, and practical comparison.
Getting a Feel: Size, Ergonomics, and Handling
Your connection with a camera often starts with how it feels in your hands - the controls you reach for quickly, the grip comfort, and overall portability.
Feature | Panasonic GX85 | Panasonic L10 |
---|---|---|
Body Style | Rangefinder-style mirrorless | Mid-size DSLR (SLR-style) |
Dimensions (mm) | 122 x 71 x 44 | 135 x 96 x 78 |
Weight (inc. battery) | 426 g | 556 g |
Grip Comfort | Compact, with textured grip | Larger, more pronounced grip |
Control Layout | Modern, touchscreen + dials | Traditional DSLR buttons |
Viewfinder | Electronic, 2764 px | Optical pentamirror, 0.47x |
The GX85 showcases the evolution toward smaller, more portable mirrorless bodies that are easy to carry all day, making it an ideal choice if travel or street photography factors into your workflow. The L10 is bulkier and heavier, typical of mid-size DSLRs from the 2000’s, offering a familiar heft but less comfort for extended handheld shooting.
The GX85’s modern tilting touchscreen facilitates quick menu navigation and composing at tricky angles - a versatile advantage over the L10’s smaller, fixed, non-touch LCD.
Moreover, the GX85's electronic viewfinder (EVF) displays exposure warnings and highlights in real time - enhancing precision when manual controls are used. In contrast, the L10 relies on the optical pentamirror OVF that provides a natural viewing experience but lacks the overlays and information display benefits of the EVF.
Sensor Tech and Image Quality: The Heart of the Camera
Sensor performance dramatically influences image quality outcomes, including resolution, dynamic range, light sensitivity, and color fidelity.
Specification | Panasonic GX85 | Panasonic L10 |
---|---|---|
Sensor Type | 16MP Four Thirds CMOS (no AA filter) | 10MP Four Thirds CMOS (with AA filter) |
Sensor Size (mm) | 17.3 x 13 | 17.3 x 13 |
Max Native ISO | 25600 | 1600 |
DxOMark Overall Score | 71 | 55 |
Color Depth | 22.9 bits | 21.3 bits |
Dynamic Range | 12.6 EV | 10.8 EV |
Low Light ISO Score | 662 | 429 |
The GX85’s 16MP sensor benefits from lack of an anti-aliasing filter, leading to sharper images with finer detail, while the L10’s 10MP sensor incorporates an AA filter to reduce moiré at the cost of some resolution.
ISO sensitivity on the GX85 extends much higher, enabling cleaner images in low-light scenarios, including indoor events or night photography. The higher dynamic range on the GX85 means you can retain more highlight and shadow details in contrasty scenes, such as landscapes with bright skies and deep shadows.
Our controlled lab tests, combined with real-world shooting, emphasize the GX85’s modern image processor (Venus Engine) which further boosts noise reduction while maintaining texture - a big leap compared to the L10's older technology.
Autofocus Systems: Speed and Precision When It Counts
Autofocus (AF) efficacy plays a pivotal role in ensuring sharp results - especially for wildlife, sports, or portraiture demanding eye-explicit focus.
Feature | Panasonic GX85 | Panasonic L10 |
---|---|---|
AF Points | 49 contrast-detection points | 3 phase-detection points |
AF Technology | Contrast-detection, with face detection | Phase-detection, no face detection |
AF Modes | Single, Continuous, Tracking, Face Detection | Single, Continuous |
Live View AF | Yes, with touch AF | No |
Animal Eye AF | No | No |
The GX85 sports a sophisticated 49-point contrast-detect AF system with face detection and tracking that performs well for stills and video. Moreover, touch-to-focus on the LCD adds responsiveness in live view situations like macro or street photography.
The L10’s AF is considerably more basic with just 3 AF points and lacks face or eye detection, limiting precision especially in fast or complex compositions. Without live view AF, focusing through the OVF requires more manual skill or patience.
In dynamic environments such as sports or wildlife, the GX85’s faster burst rate (8 fps vs. 3 fps on the L10) combined with competent AF tracking gives it the edge for capturing decisive moments.
Build Quality, Weather Sealing, and Reliability
Both cameras exhibit typical Panasonic build standards of their respective eras, but neither offers weather sealing or ruggedized features. If you often shoot outdoors or in adverse conditions, plan accordingly with protective gear.
The GX85 is built with modern polycarbonate materials, balancing durability with lightweight portability. The L10’s construction is heavier, reflecting design priorities of DSLRs from over a decade ago, which some photographers appreciate for its reassuring heft.
Neither camera features environmental sealing, splash/dustproof, or freezeproof capabilities. Consider this when shooting in challenging environments.
LCD Screens and User Interface
The visual feedback and menu navigation experience can significantly affect your shooting comfort and speed.
Feature | Panasonic GX85 | Panasonic L10 |
---|---|---|
LCD Size | 3.0” Tilting touch-enabled | 2.5” Fixed, non-touch |
Resolution | 1,040k dots | 207k dots |
EVF Resolution | 2,764k dots | Optical only |
Main Controls | Electronic dials, touchscreen, customizable buttons | Traditional DSLR buttons, no touchscreen |
Menu System | Intuitive, designed for mirrorless workflow | More dated, DSLR-centric UI |
The GX85 shines here with its high-resolution tilting touchscreen that also supports touch focusing and menu control. This flexibility is invaluable for shooting at low or high angles, macro, or vlog-style framing.
Conversely, the L10’s LCD is lower-res and fixed, limiting framing versatility off the viewfinder and requiring more button navigation - less friendly for quick adjustments or beginners.
Lens Ecosystem and Compatibility
Both cameras use the Micro Four Thirds mount, which means you can access a broad range of lenses from Panasonic, Olympus, and third-party manufacturers.
Factor | Panasonic GX85 | Panasonic L10 |
---|---|---|
Compatible Lens Count | 100+ lenses (as of 2024) | Around 45 lenses (circa 2007) |
Image Stabilization | In-body 5-axis sensor shift | None |
Autofocus Motor Support | Yes | Limited |
Latest Lens Support | Supports latest Panasonic & Olympus lenses including PRO series | Supports older lenses without some modern features |
Adapter Support | Compatible with adapters for legacy lenses | Same |
The GX85’s in-body 5-axis stabilization allows handheld shooting across diverse focal lengths and generally improves video smoothness, a noteworthy advantage for creatives shooting on a budget without stabilization-equipped lenses.
The L10 lacks in-body stabilization, requiring stabilized lenses to assist handholding. Given the camera's age, newer lenses with advanced autofocus motors and optical designs won’t operate at full capabilities.
Battery Life and Storage
Feature | Panasonic GX85 | Panasonic L10 |
---|---|---|
Battery Type | Proprietary rechargeable lithium-ion pack | Proprietary rechargeable lithium-ion pack |
Battery Life (CIPA ratings) | Approx. 290 shots | Data not specified |
Storage Media | One SD/SDHC/SDXC card | One SD/SDHC/MMC card |
Connectivity | USB 2.0, HDMI, Built-in WiFi | USB 2.0 only |
Battery life on the GX85 is moderate; 290 shots per charge is common for mirrorless cameras with EVFs and bright LCD panels. Bringing a spare battery is recommended for day-long outings.
The L10's battery life is not formally rated but tends to be similar or shorter for DSLRs of its time, especially shooting with the optical viewfinder.
The GX85’s wireless connectivity enables instant image sharing or remote control, absent on the L10.
Video Features and Multimodal Use
Video capability is an important factor if you are a content creator blending photography and filmmaking.
Feature | Panasonic GX85 | Panasonic L10 |
---|---|---|
Max Video Resolution | 4K UHD (3840x2160) at 30p | None |
Full HD Frame Rates | 60p, 60i, 30p, 24p | None |
4K Photo Mode | Yes | No |
Microphone Input | No | No |
Headphone Output | No | No |
Image Stabilization | Sensor-based 5-axis | None |
The GX85’s 4K video recording and 4K photo mode add tremendous creative avenues for capturing fleeting moments or producing high-quality video content without upgrading to a dedicated cinema camera.
The L10, grounded in an era before video DSLRs were widespread, offers no video capabilities, limiting its flexibility for hybrid shooters.
Examining Real-World Use Across Photography Types
Below we breakdown which camera excels in specific photographic genres, helping you align your creative goals with practical capabilities.
Photography Type | Panasonic GX85 Strengths | Panasonic L10 Strengths |
---|---|---|
Portrait | Eye and face detection, high-res sensor for skin tones, shallow DOF achievable with fast lenses + 5-axis IS | Traditional OVF experience, solid color depth for portraits |
Landscape | Higher dynamic range, higher resolution, tilting screen for composition | Larger grip for tripod use |
Wildlife | Fast AF with tracking, higher fps burst | More robust grip for telephoto lenses |
Sports | 8 fps burst and better AF tracking | Durable DSLR design |
Street | Compact size, silent 1/16000s electronic shutter | Bulkier, louder shutter noise |
Macro | Post focus, fine focus bracketing, stabilization support | Manual focus precision |
Night/Astro | High ISO usable, long exposure modes | Manual exposure control, lower noise floor at low ISO |
Video | 4K video, image stabilization | None |
Travel | Lightweight, WiFi connectivity, battery life | Heavier, no connectivity |
Professional Work | Supports RAW, WiFi, and external accessories | Solid build, compatible with legacy lenses |
Each camera offers a unique set of strengths tailored for different creators and shooting contexts. The GX85 caters well to hybrid content producers, travelers, and anyone embracing modern mirrorless tech. The L10 appeals to enthusiasts appreciating traditional DSLR ergonomics and optical viewfinder fidelity, with more manual control emphasis.
Image Samples: Evaluating Everyday Image Quality and Color
Nothing beats comparing actual image outputs when considering a new camera.
Our side-by-side shoot demonstrates:
- The GX85 produces crisper detail, especially visible in foliage and fine fabric textures.
- Skin tones are smoother, with natural gradation on the GX85 due to superior dynamic range and sensitivity.
- Color saturation is richer but not oversaturated on the GX85.
- The L10’s images have a slightly softer look, typical of AA filter influence, but color remains faithful.
- Noise performance at higher ISO heavily favors the GX85, retaining more usable details.
Top-View Controls and Customizability
Control placement can affect your shooting speed and comfort, especially in fast-paced environments.
The GX85 features customizable dials and the electronic interface that can adapt to your preferred shooting style, backed by illuminated buttons aiding low-light use.
The L10 maintains a classic DSLR control layout with physical switches and dials familiar to photographers transitioning from film cameras, but fewer custom options.
Final Verdict: Who Should Choose Which?
Let’s summarize the strengths and considerations so you can decide confidently.
Criteria | Panasonic GX85 - Why Choose? | Panasonic L10 - Why Choose? |
---|---|---|
Technology & Features | Modern sensor and processor, 4K video, 5-axis IS, WiFi | Classic DSLR experience, rugged grip, optical viewfinder |
Image Quality | Higher resolution, better low light and dynamic range | Good image quality for its time, softer look |
Autofocus & Speed | Faster continuous shooting, face detection, touch AF | Basic AF system, slower burst |
Portability & Handling | Lightweight, compact, tilting touchscreen | Heavier, bulkier, DSLR style |
Lens Selection | Broad, current Micro Four Thirds ecosystem plus stabilization | Compatible with legacy lenses, fewer modern options |
Video Capabilities | 4K UHD video with stabilization | None |
Budget Considerations | Higher cost but better value for hybrid shooting | Lower initial cost, limited video, aging tech |
Recommendations for Different Photographer Types
- Hybrid Photographers & Vloggers: GX85’s 4K video, in-body stabilization, and connectivity make it a natural choice.
- Travel & Street Photographers: GX85’s compact size, silent shutter, and strong ISO performance suit mobile shooting and discretion.
- Portrait & Wedding Photographers: The improved AF and richer resolution of the GX85 simplify fast-paced, critical focus demands.
- Beginners on a Budget Interested in DSLR Feel: The L10 may appeal as a beginner DSLR with manual controls and an optical viewfinder, but expect limitations.
- Collectors or Nostalgic Photographers: The L10 provides a vintage experience with solid build quality.
Final Performance Ratings
The GX85’s ranking highlights its status as a versatile, performer packed with modern features. The L10 scores respectably for its age but falls short in dynamic use cases by today’s standards.
Wrapping Up: Find the Camera That Empowers Your Vision
Both the Panasonic GX85 and L10 embody significant chapters in Panasonic’s Micro Four Thirds journey, each catering to different needs and eras. Our hands-on experience confirms the GX85 as the contemporary champion for those craving a compact, capable, and video-forward system without breaking the bank.
If you cherish DSLR ergonomics or wish to explore Micro Four Thirds with a limited budget, the L10 can still serve as a functional introduction, though it demands a willingness to accept its dated features.
We encourage you to handle both in person if possible. Test the feel, autofocus responsiveness, and interface: these tactile experiences often guide the heart of your choice alongside specs.
For today’s photography enthusiast, the Panasonic GX85 stands out as a smart investment in creativity - ready to elevate your art across genres from vivid landscapes to intimate portraits and captivating video.
Ready to explore? Check out local retailers or trusted online stores, and consider pairing your chosen camera with versatile lenses like a 12-35mm f/2.8 or a 25mm f/1.7 to jumpstart versatility. Don’t forget spare batteries and a sturdy SD card to keep shooting uninterrupted.
Happy shooting and creating!
This detailed comparison is crafted from extensive testing, technical evaluation, and an understanding of photographers’ varied needs - guiding you confidently through your purchasing decision.
Panasonic GX85 vs Panasonic L10 Specifications
Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX85 | Panasonic Lumix DMC-L10 | |
---|---|---|
General Information | ||
Brand | Panasonic | Panasonic |
Model | Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX85 | Panasonic Lumix DMC-L10 |
Otherwise known as | Lumix DMC-GX80 / Lumix DMC-GX7 Mark II | - |
Class | Advanced Mirrorless | Advanced DSLR |
Launched | 2016-04-05 | 2007-12-14 |
Body design | Rangefinder-style mirrorless | Mid-size SLR |
Sensor Information | ||
Processor | Venus Engine | - |
Sensor type | CMOS | CMOS |
Sensor size | Four Thirds | Four Thirds |
Sensor dimensions | 17.3 x 13mm | 17.3 x 13mm |
Sensor area | 224.9mm² | 224.9mm² |
Sensor resolution | 16 megapixels | 10 megapixels |
Anti aliasing filter | ||
Aspect ratio | 1:1, 4:3, 3:2 and 16:9 | 4:3, 3:2 and 16:9 |
Full resolution | 4592 x 3448 | 3648 x 2736 |
Max native ISO | 25600 | 1600 |
Min native ISO | 200 | 100 |
RAW images | ||
Min boosted ISO | 100 | - |
Autofocusing | ||
Manual focus | ||
Touch to focus | ||
Continuous AF | ||
Single AF | ||
AF tracking | ||
Selective AF | ||
AF center weighted | ||
AF multi area | ||
AF live view | ||
Face detection focusing | ||
Contract detection focusing | ||
Phase detection focusing | ||
Number of focus points | 49 | 3 |
Lens | ||
Lens mount | Micro Four Thirds | Micro Four Thirds |
Available lenses | 107 | 45 |
Focal length multiplier | 2.1 | 2.1 |
Screen | ||
Screen type | Tilting | Fixed Type |
Screen diagonal | 3 inches | 2.5 inches |
Screen resolution | 1,040k dot | 207k dot |
Selfie friendly | ||
Liveview | ||
Touch capability | ||
Viewfinder Information | ||
Viewfinder type | Electronic | Optical (pentamirror) |
Viewfinder resolution | 2,764k dot | - |
Viewfinder coverage | 100 percent | 95 percent |
Viewfinder magnification | - | 0.47x |
Features | ||
Slowest shutter speed | 60s | 60s |
Maximum shutter speed | 1/4000s | 1/4000s |
Maximum silent shutter speed | 1/16000s | - |
Continuous shooting speed | 8.0 frames/s | 3.0 frames/s |
Shutter priority | ||
Aperture priority | ||
Manually set exposure | ||
Exposure compensation | Yes | Yes |
Set WB | ||
Image stabilization | ||
Inbuilt flash | ||
Flash range | 6.00 m (at ISO 200) | 11.00 m |
Flash settings | Auto, auto w/redeye reduction, forced on, forced on w/redeye reduction, slow sync, slow sync w/redeye reduction, forced off | Auto, Red-Eye Auto, On, Red-Eye On, Red-Eye Slow Sync, Off, Slow Sync (1&2) |
External flash | ||
AE bracketing | ||
White balance bracketing | ||
Exposure | ||
Multisegment metering | ||
Average metering | ||
Spot metering | ||
Partial metering | ||
AF area metering | ||
Center weighted metering | ||
Video features | ||
Video resolutions | 3840 x 2160 (30p, 24p), 1920 x 1080 (60p, 60i, 30p, 24p), 1280 x 720 (30p), 640 x 480 (30p) | - |
Max video resolution | 3840x2160 | None |
Video data format | MPEG-4, AVCHD | - |
Mic input | ||
Headphone input | ||
Connectivity | ||
Wireless | Built-In | None |
Bluetooth | ||
NFC | ||
HDMI | ||
USB | USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec) | USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec) |
GPS | None | None |
Physical | ||
Environmental seal | ||
Water proof | ||
Dust proof | ||
Shock proof | ||
Crush proof | ||
Freeze proof | ||
Weight | 426 gr (0.94 lb) | 556 gr (1.23 lb) |
Dimensions | 122 x 71 x 44mm (4.8" x 2.8" x 1.7") | 135 x 96 x 78mm (5.3" x 3.8" x 3.1") |
DXO scores | ||
DXO All around score | 71 | 55 |
DXO Color Depth score | 22.9 | 21.3 |
DXO Dynamic range score | 12.6 | 10.8 |
DXO Low light score | 662 | 429 |
Other | ||
Battery life | 290 photos | - |
Style of battery | Battery Pack | - |
Self timer | Yes | Yes (2 or 10 sec) |
Time lapse feature | ||
Type of storage | SD/SDHC/SDXC card | SD/MMC/SDHC card |
Storage slots | Single | Single |
Launch cost | $800 | $350 |