Panasonic Japan has recently introduced the Lumix DC-G100D, an upgraded version of the Panasonic G100. The new model features an improved electronic viewfinder (EVF) and a USB-C socket for charging the camera’s batteries.
Although it is not explicitly stated in the press release, it is likely that the EU laws, which compelled Apple to switch to USB-C for its iPhones, contribute to this change. The Panasonic G100 did not come with a dedicated charger, making the inclusion of a USB-C socket more convenient.
The major difference between the G100D and the original G100 lies in the EVF. Interestingly, the new EVF may seem like a downgrade at first glance due to its lower resolution display.
The G100D incorporates a 2.36 million-dot OLED display in its viewfinder, while the original G100 used a 3.68 million-dot electronic viewfinder. Despite the decrease in resolution, the upgraded OLED technology still represents an improvement.
However, it is challenging to determine the impact of the lower resolution without actual testing. The newest technology used in the EVF is likely to offer overall benefits, potentially compensating for any decrease in resolution.
In contrast to the outdated micro USB socket used in the 2020 Panasonic G100, the G100D now embraces the widely adopted USB-C format. Panasonic’s transition to phase-detect autofocus further suggests their recognition of USB-C as the standard for the 21st century.
It is surprising that it took Panasonic so long to adopt USB-C. The Panasonic GH5, released in 2017, already had a USB-C socket. This shift in the choice of socket finally extends to Panasonic’s lower-end and entry-level models.
The press release, similar to the G100, does not make explicit reference to the EU regulations that prompted Apple’s move to USB-C. Nevertheless, since the G100 lacked a separate charger, switching to a USB-C socket was likely necessary to comply with these regulations.
Although the new USB-C socket on the G100D only supports USB 2.0 speeds, it aligns with the Type-C specification, ensuring compatibility with other devices.
Panasonic has confirmed that the G100D will be available in the United States and worldwide, but no specific release date has been mentioned. According to reports, the transition to the G100D will be seamless, with the newer model gradually replacing the G100 as stocks of the latter run out.
In other international markets, it is expected that the camera will be marketed as the G100D, although there is no official confirmation of this yet. Furthermore, pricing details for regions outside of Japan are still unknown, but it is expected to be similar to the G100 considering the compromise made on the EVF resolution. In Japan, the G100D is listed at 106,920 yen, equivalent to roughly $737.
With an MSRP of $749, the Panasonic G100 is currently available at a significantly discounted price of $497.99 as part of a Holiday Discount promotion. It is likely that Panasonic is clearing out stocks of the G100 in preparation for the introduction of the G100D.