A Review Of The Panasonic DMC-GX8 Micro Four Thirds Camera

[@headwerkn]

Still rocking my GX8 after many years of reliable use, thanks primarily to this review. You are sorely missed David. RIP.

[@snappychappy]

Absolutely. My go to for MFT related stuff.

[@sdrtcacgnrjrc]

Still sounds like a great camera

[@alistairlambert3275]

I came here to say thanks to the late, great Mr Thorpe. I bought this camera thanks to this excellent review.

[@artistjoh]

Seven years have passed, and the GX8 is still a great camera. Panasonic got it right back then, and it is still a camera worth using in 2023.

[@evernam993m8]

Is shutter shock real issue like people said?

[@mootpointjones8488]

​@@evernam993m8I've not experienced it with my GX8. I've owned it for six years.

[@ChrisWright2000]

@@evernam993m8No.

[@michamilka]

@@evernam993m8 No its fixed with firmware update and its also severely exaggerated.

[@rosscrichton8584]

Thanks David, I love your reviews, they don't age. RIP. Ross

[@user-jm7se9cf3u]

Just bought a gx8 and my full frame friends love it. Form and function on it is the best. Its not big its the perfect size. The flip up evf is so useful and not a gimmick. In 2022 id buy this all day. Gx85 and gx9 dont come close. This has weatherproofing!

[@ralphmiranda2077]

Finally! A quippy and didactic look at this camera with _examples_ of "this is wtf I'm talking about" as opposed to the technical dribble I can Google myself. Keep it up-please.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

I intend to keep it up, Ralph and I'm glad you enjoy it!

[@NetvoTV]

Your profile picture is Hotline Miami! I like that game!

[@koos48]

I googled “wtf”. It seems to mean “what”. Just in case others might be wondering...

[@GiulioSciorio]

Good stuff David. I've been using two GX8's for commissions and personal assignments. Been very happy with the results and my clients love the work as well.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Giulio Sciorio Thanks Giulio - two of them eh? You'll have made a lot of people jealous :-) Although it shouldn't be important, clients do like to see their photographer using a a'professional' camera' and the GX8 certainly looks the part.

[@emudojo]

@@DavidThorpeMFT Thousands of years later and I think I want to buy it to replace an aging GX7, although I would want to get a G9 I can't justify it's price for me a non photographer thoughts?, Is just me probably wanting to justify my lack off technique lol with a newer body, or will it be wiser to just invest in glass (I do not own any fast lens besides the 12mm2.0 and 25mm1.7

[@peterlemke3468]

@@emudojo Interesting l'm considering either a GX8, GX9 or Pen-F as a second M43 body. I already use and enjoy a G9. I'm looking for a street camera to use with my Panasonic 15mm f1.7.

[@davepayne8500]

@@peterlemke3468 HI Peter! I'm looking for a second M43 body (my primary is EM1 Mark II) and I'm considering the GX8 or the Pen-f...which did you get and why??

[@Gary_W]

I finally bought the GX8, and after about a month using it, there's quite a lot of small little things that really improved the overall experience of using the GX8 compared to the GX7. The grip, the custom buttons, the LCD screen, the viewfinder, the dials, the buttons, the overall handling, and everything else about this camera make so much sense for me. It inspires me to learn about video too and now I've been doing some video projects too with the camera. I "baptized" the camera by taking it into a concert, with the concert pictures that you shared in my mind. It didn't disappoint at all, the pictures at ISO 3200 were just amazingly clean and sharp, just like your concert pictures. The 20MP doesn't make too much improvement by default. But on the same line as what you said, when I downsized my images, they were noticeably sharper and cleaner than GX7's images. To add to your review, the E-Shutter doesn't produce banding anymore under the same lighting condition when compared to GX7's E-Shutter, although as you explained the jello effect is still present. I still don't like the price, but here where I live it's a bit cheaper than the E-M5 Mark II or the E-M1, so it's the best value for the money for this price range. Thanks once again for your excellent review.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+bajigurwedangronde Thanks for that and the interesting observations. I agree with everything you say and I'm interested to learn that the banding is gone with the e-shutter. I also agree about the price which makes me think that Panasonic's decision to sell both cameras is a good one.

[@mishacrowe6594]

Great review David , the only trouble is with your reviews is that they cost me lots of money. Ive now sold all of my Nikon gear and have gone compleatley over to the 4/3 system. Camera EM1D, Lenses 7/14, 12/40, 40/150 with converter, and the 75 mm which is unbelievable the sharpest of them all. This DMC- GX8 is on my wish list for a good second camera. Micro 4/3 is a great system and very light for traveling with. Keep up the great reviews David. Regards Mick

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Misha crowe Thanks, Mick!. You certainly have gone for MFT in a big way. Great outfit you have there.

[@iamneallyons4263]

Just watched this now, held in high regard! Absolutely one to consider now!

[@sellmerpeter]

absolutely brilliant review - truly a poet photographer - a very rare breed.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Peter Sellmer Thanks Peter. If I'm a rare breed, I hope that doesn't mean I am endangered too :-)

[@willprice7475]

Great review! I bought my GX7 almost solely on your review of it, but now you've gone and got me lusting after the GX8. Thanks a lot, David!

[@davidthorpe7732]

+Will Blake You're welcome, Will! I hope you like the GX8 as much as I do.

[@willprice7475]

+David Thorpe If only I could talk my wife into letting me spend another $1000! Until then, I have to enjoy the GX7.

[@jonathanfoust635]

David - Thank you for your generosity in offering these reviews. I enjoy your technical expertise and your capacity to be so clear, concise and artful in your communication. You''re my go-to source for wise and thoughtful here.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

That's good to hear and thanks for it, Jonathan!

[@robfuldner5586]

Very well spoken with enough repetition to commit the details to memory. He sold me on this camera. Its on my "wanter list."

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Rob Fuldner Glad you found it helpful Rob. !

[@michamilka]

2024 and just bought this camera, what a beautifully crafted and performance packed camera. SUPER HAPPPY!

[@HomesickMac]

Thank you for such a detailed review +DavidThorpe, you actually helped me to decide on a GX8. I'm getting it as a companion to my new FZ2000 since I'll be filming interviews, some outdoor footage (great that GX8 is weather sealed) and overall as my B camera, smaller and easier to carry with me every day. Cheers!

[@koos48]

Ah yes, keep it up, David. No ‘What’s up KZbin’ and especially no waving hands. Just your calm delivery, spiced up with succinct humour. A blessing.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Thanks you, Koos!

[@TyroneWhite]

Wonderful review - I've just purchased it based on your recommendation. I only have Olympus lenses at this point, so I'm glad that it has in-built stabilization, even if it's not at the level of the E-M5 Mark II. And the autofocus is faster than any other camera I've used.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Hi Tyrone - yes it's a pretty stunning all rounder. Glad you liked the review.

[@HeyHerdy]

I have to say I'm always entertained by your reviews. Listening to your voice and eloquent words are something to behold ahaha. As a proud GH4 owner I implore you to keep going! Never stop shooting my friend!

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+HeyHerdy Thanks - I fully intend to keep going and I don't think I'll ever willingly stop shooting :-)

[@عابرسبيل-و5ي1س]

daive . can you tell us about photojournalism ? like pro and con you're experience +++

[@angelaERDE]

Hi David, excellent review and very informative. I was a Leica rangefinder camera owner who loved my Leicas but now welcome our new digital overlords. At the moment I am shooting more video than stills so the GH4 is the thing, but I do pine for a Leica-like rangefinder-style form factor and the GX8 may be the one for me, for MFT format at least. I would love to create a practice combining making documentaries with shooting documentary-style photographs and perhaps the best current combo would be the GX8 with a GH4 and maybe a GH5 (especially if it has great stabilization).

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+angelaERDE I somehow doubt the GH5 will have great stabilization because the 4K generates so much heat. But makers seem to be doing technical miracles now, so who what do I know? One of my best photographer friends always had Leicas and he loved using them as much as I didn't. I think that apart from a few specialist applications like macro, manual focus, rangefinder or not, is becoming redundant because the he auto is so fast and accurate on these latest cameras. I have a little 12-32mm lens which doesn't have a focusing ring and I have yet to miss it. One Leica thing I did really love was the gorgeous engineering and build quality. Like the Hasseblad, that German engineering made the cameras sexy, somehow.

[@simonc8265]

just bought one. I enjoy the fit. the viewfinder. the customisation. it's got a big tag on it that says use me. I'm moving from a 7d which used to take a pounding as I took seascapes and landscape. I'm a little apprehensive about going microfourthirds for this. currently using 12-35 f2.8. ultimately anything that makes me get out and take pictures is going to help me get better. this does! thankyou very much for a very personable review.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Thanks Simon. I'm always strong on the point that a camera that feels right and makes you want to pick it up and use it is much more important than its sheer technical ability. The GX8 has both attributes to my mind, good to use and good performance. The S-AF is as fast as it gets with _any_ camera and down to really low light levels too. With so few moving parts compared to a DSLR, there is a built in hardiness which should take the rigours of your use. Canon build tough cameras, so I hope the GX8 doesn't disappoint. I don't think it will, both camera and lens being weather sealed. I've personally not had a Micro Four Thirds camera fail on me at all - having said that, I have a feeling I shouldn't have!

[@lessonsfromafather3465]

Hey David, after our discussions I have pulled the trigger on this, the GX8! Thanks again for all of your feedback as well as great reviews!

[@davidthorpe7732]

You'll love it, Adam!

[@lessonsfromafather3465]

David Thorpe I already am! But I must say it’s not coming quite as naturally to me as the G7 did. I’d like to master the layout and format of the GX8. If I recall I had seen somewhere a guide to the GX8 that you had done somewhere? That’s what I need! Could you remind me where I can find that? Thanks!

[@davidthorpe7732]

Adam Neely It's my Amazon eBook or paperback - here amzn.to/2R6J62v (UK) or amzn.to/2QakEvG (USA)

[@mlseawell]

Hello David! Your friend across the pond here in Utah. Brilliant review. I was wondering when you would add your Vader voice to the GX8 reviews! I was curious about the camera and rented it for a couple of days. We visited the Grand Escalante in the southern part of Utah which is gorgeous. I was shooting with the 8 and the GX7 simultaneously. What I found was I loved the ergonomics of the 8, the weight to me was fine. The EVF was a big upgrade over the 7. Focus, notably faster and the 4K mode, when I figured it out was great. Worked the images in LR 6 and I saw a slight improvement over the 7, not much. I've shot with everything since the G1 and I see this camera as a great companion to the GX7. I still love my GX7 and will keep it. I will sell my GH2/GH3 and a lens so I can buy the GX8.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Mark Seawell Ho mark. Yes, as I said, the IQ is only marginally better than the GX7 but that is pretty good given the increased pixel count. GX7 and GX8 would make a very good pairing and ideal for travel photography.

[@mlseawell]

David Thorpe Indeed. I this is a lovely camera and will definitely buy it!

[@stefhendrik6977]

That's quite a superb review, I much enjoyed listening. Particularly like the slide-show style - instead of being forced to look at some geezer's punim for too long - and intelligent wording. Hope you'll be doing the GX80/ 85 sometime soon.

[@davidthorpe7732]

+Stef Hendrik Glad you like the videos, thanks Stef! I did put my punim on screen but I got too many love letters and marriage proposals from women all over the world, so I stopped :-) New word for me punim, I'll remember that one. I have a GX80 on order so that's in hand. Don't know when it will be available but I'm looking forward to it.

[@znomad8258]

Thanks for helping make up my mind about this camera. I ended up starting with the body, Pan 14-140mm f3.5, Pan 20mm f1.7, and the Oly FL-LM3 flash. So far I love it.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Perpetual Journey Glad to hear that and glad I was helpful. Great outfit and very capable.

[@TorstenVillnow]

I am in the process of down-sizing (= replacing) my Canon DSLR equipment to MFT. So far the Olympus EM1 or EM5 II has been on top of my preference list. The GX8 is now number one as a consequence of this excellent review!

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Torsten Villnow Thanks Torsten. The E-M1 or E-M5ll would feel more DSLR like so worth trying one in store if you can. I prefer the E-M1 because the E-M5ll is too small for my taste. Of the E-M1 and GX8, I personally prefer the GX8 for its (in my opinion) better handling. To match the stabilization of the E-M1, you would need to use compatible Panasonic lenses that will use the dual stabilization function of the GX8. All in all, if you like the feel of the GX8, that would be the one I'd go for, though in the final analysis I'd be happy with either.

[@seanimal3]

david thorpe thanks for the response because I have been thinking about the gx8 as a backup wedding camera and honestly I thought the high iso jpeg processing looked very digital and not grainy when i tried it at the camera store. I can deal with grain but I hate it when in camera jpegs look soft and digitilized if that makes sense. thanks again for replying

[@siroz1]

love your reviews, i'm trying to find a camera I can match up with my jvc gy-ls300 (M4/3). I want it to have 4k capability and be able to use rokinon m4/3 lens. this might be a good option with out breaking the bank.

[@Dustinrhoades]

Another fantastic review, David. The most thoughtful review I've seen on the GX8 so far. You've given me a different perspective on this camera. Now, do I buy a GX8, or wait for the upgraded EM-1. Hmm.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Dustinrhoades Thanks very much. Hmmm indeed! The GX8 isn't cheap but by the time a new Olympus comes up it will have come down in price. Trouble is there's no way of knowing how much an E-M2(?) will be or when it will come out. Not soon, I would have thought since Olympus are just about to upgrade the firmware of the E-M1 in a big way and if a new version was imminent they'd have put it on that instead. Mind you, Olympus don't even reply to my emails so I have no insider knowledge whatsoever! If you are happy with your present setup it might be good to wait. If you're not, you might look at both an E-M1 and GX8 now. The E-M1 is a lot cheaper now than the GX8.

[@Dustinrhoades]

True. Olympus is announcing a new firmware update for the OMD 5 II and EM1. Mabye they're trying to buy themselves little time. Still, can't say my EM-1 leaves me wanting for much. It's like carrying a camera and a computer around with you all the time.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Dustinrhoades I dind't realize you already had an E-M1. So you're not deprived, whatever happens, then :-)

[@deepoteet7626]

David,I have found myself needing some good advice about what camera to own. First I am a real fan of the Lumix line of cameras. My first was the FZ200, then followed by the FZ2000, G7 and now the GX85. I also own a LX10 for pocket type shooting. My heart wants a GX8 since I have the 12x35mm 2.8, 25 1.8 and the 14x140mm that was the kit lens for the G7 when purchased. Fifteen years ago I shot a Mamiya RZ and a Bronica 645, so I know what large sensors can produce. I am 74 years old and have early Parkinson tremors in my right hand. My GX85 seems to work extremely well with the IBIS in camera and lens.I try to get out at least once a week to photograph landscape mostly. I send my good shots to my Facebook page for my friends to view. If we travel I often put together an 8x10 photo book. I no longer print shots any larger than 11x14.I really like the looks of the FZ300. Has many features I wanted on the GX8, but a very small sensor. I would sell off my GX85 and lens and keep the LX10. Will the small sensor be a problem for 11x14 or smaller prints and Facebook?Please let me know what you think? Is my heart getting in the way of a good decision? Many thanks,David

[@willjohnsnow]

David, your review was worth the wait. Much appreciated. Confirmed for me that this will be my next camera. Looking forward to using it. Thanks again.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Will Snow Thanks a lot Will. You'll ,love it, I'm certain.

[@kape06111]

I got mine one week ago and I'm really impress with this camera. Nice review.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Hans Lewinnek Thanks Hans. Yes, impressed me too.

[@OttoVonRaz]

Thank you again for sharing your thoughts David. I loved the Lord Vader sound clip, super cool and it made literally laugh out loud. I've been looking forward to your GX8 review, and now I may just go out and buy one. Panasonic should hire you!

[@alexisdante1061]

i dont mean to be so off topic but does someone know of a tool to log back into an Instagram account..? I somehow lost the account password. I would appreciate any tricks you can give me!

[@lucianoxavier9006]

@Alexis Dante Instablaster =)

[@vincentcwu]

Just got myself a GX-8 after seeing your review. Appreciate your fair-balanced view of it.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Vincent Wu Thanks Vincent!

[@HarryBunnGRVOTV]

i have the gx8 & g7 both fantastic, the only gripe with the gx8 is the 2.5mm mic jack! also just a point to note, my olly 40-150 2.8 'pro' lens has dies after just 5 months, i await to see what olympus have to say!!

[@webjoe83]

Harry bunn, hope We also going to see some final thoughts from you :)

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Harry Bunn (GRVOTV) I don't know why they use that small jack, since there is room for an extra 1mm. I'm surprised about the Olympus zoom but it is (hopefully) a one -off. At least it is still under warranty.

[@JonnyBlueChair]

well look on the bright side, the gx7 has no mic input at all!

[@simianinc]

+Marcus Nixon Not much of a bright side to those of us who own several mics with the standard 3.5mm plug. Just what we need - a 3.5mm to 2.5mm dangling around

[@soundfeelsgood_]

might you get gx9 with 5 axis body dude

[@jt5439]

Great video!! Thank you!!! This was 2015, we are now in 2017. Which do you think is a better choice, especially for pictures... the GX8 or the G85???? Thank you again! Aloha!

[@paulbotwright5846]

your reviews get better and more interesting with every one , can't wait for the next thanks

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+paul botwright I'm blushing! Thanks Paul.

[@s.s.productions]

You make a good point in your reviews! I enjoy them. Man, I'm so torn between the GX8 and the PEN-F. No one seems to mention an increase of resolution between the GX7 and 8. The GX7 had a notably lower detail resolution than other 16mp m43 cameras. That always annoys me when I shoot with my two GX7s. In my studio I use my Pen E-PL5 due to the higher detail resolution. No one also mentions whether the WiFi reach has been increased because the GX7's WIFi is appalling. I step 2m away from the camera with my iPhone, I turn my back to the camera and I start to lose connection. My previous E-M1s gave me around 30m of reach and it was great.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+lesdeth12 It's odd that the GX7 has restricted wireless range. The GMs, GHs and now the GX8 have the usual range, up to about 10 metres, I find. Like you, 2-2.5 metres and the GX7 starts to run out. The upcoming GX80 has the GX7 sensor but with the low pass filter removed so I imagine that was the reason for the lesser resolution. For studio use, it might be useful to bear in mind that the GX8 can be mains powered.

[@davidlisney2597]

An excellent and well considered review. I bought a GF6 and that sold me on the m43 format, soon I found myself lense swapping and bought a GX8. I must admit that the GF6 has had little use since. I wear reading glasses and it was always a bit of a juggling act using the large display on the GF6. The GX8 layout allows me to memorise the functions I use most and I also do not need glasses to use the excellent EVF. In my limited experience the EVF is better than an optical view finder. Another merit to the combination I use most (GX8 with the later 14-140mm lense) is bizarrely not the way the camera sees the subject but the opposite. People do not get intimidated so much by this diminutive little camera.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Thanks David. You're absolutely right about the intimidation factor. Also in public places where jobsworths are around, they see a big DSLR and think professional camera, you're up to no good. As we know, it's the results that count, not how they were obtained! I don't think there are many photograhers who, given the GX8's EVF to compare side by side with a DSLR optical finder would prefer the latter. Most people who say they don't like a modern EVF have never tried one.

[@davidlisney2597]

Thanks for the reply, fortunately most of my pictures are landscapes or vehicles. In this modern society I am conscious that people are sensitive to the presence of cameras in various places. I just missed an opportunity to take some pictures of some derelict wooden boats, they were on private land but visible from public land. Something quite beautiful about the decay but despite them being there for decades I thought I may be mistaken for a busy body gathering evidence. Today I found the site has been bulldozed. On a lighter note there is something comical about a great big FF camera with battery grip making a pub band forget the words part way through a song!

[@davidthorpe7732]

As you obviously know, if something is visible from a public place, even if it is on private property, you are perfecty entitled to photograph it. We seem to be diving head first into a society that believes that everyone is a criminal until they prove they're not. That pub band must have felt guilty about something. I wonder what they'd been up to? :-)

[@Steve-K.G.]

What a lovely, calm, even review :-) Thank you.

[@joaolopes1178]

Love your reviews, detailed, well explained and very informative. Great to listen and certainly the best micro 4/3 channel on youtube Regards and a happy new year for you and your family. Subscribed.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+João Lopes Thanks for letting me know that, Joao. I really appreciate it. Happy new year to you and yours too!

[@brenwest]

Fabulous review. I decided to purchase second hand on the basis of this.

[@MudMaxMetalDetecting]

I'm on a tight budget, and looking at the GX8 as my main camera for the future, some decent used ones about now at a fair price. I like shooting birds mostly. Would you still recommend it today?

[@kurts_aviation]

Thanks for the review of the GX8 David it helped make my mind up to purchase the camera and the Panasonic Leica 100-400mm Lens took them out for a test drive yesterday to RSPB Bempton Cliffs and the results are brilliant. That's coming from Canon which I also love but health reasons I need lighter gear and this set up fits the bill perfectly.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Glad it helped, Kurt. The great big EVF on the GX8 is great with the 100-200 and I found the dual stabilization was more than good enough even for such a high mag lens. The weight of an outfit to perform a similar task a DSLR doesn't bear thinking about!

[@christopherstevenson9737]

Despite the date of this review, I'm considering this Lumix to replace the (amazing) G9 I recently purchased bcz it (G9) is so heavy & bulky. Your tour shwing the simplicity and easy menu &customized options leads me to seriously consider this 7 yr old Lumix. I had an Oly omd_em10. Like you said...designed by a engineering !,,,

[@darrenochoa9193]

Great video. I can't decide between the GX8 or the GH4.I will be shooting more stills than video. Any suggestions.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Thanks Darren - for mainly stills I'd be inclined to the GX8. The great EVF and the 20Mp sensor are a big attraction. The GH4 has more specialist video facilities and is an excellent stills camera too but the GX8 is more up to date. Very different designs but both are great handling, well laid out cameras. I do like the GX8's dedicated exposure compensation dial, too.

[@benlister74]

Damn you David!!! I've got a G7 now wondering if I need a GX8 lol. Great vids and love your dry humour.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Ben Lister Thanks Ben!

[@miba8303]

Let me know I have the same dilemma exactly the same ....and i dont know

[@lfcmarkeb7124]

thanks,great review as always.most other reviewers seem to focus on video ,with a lot of them clearly not knowing very much technically about the camera,or lens .yours clear concise,and informative.thanks again

[@davidthorpe7732]

Glad to hear that -and thanks for telling me!

[@GoodBrothersBowling]

Thanks David, another great review. I've owed the Olympus OM-d EM5 ii and LOVE the camera (when its working properly) Since purchasing Olympus in July, it's been sent back to Olympus TWICE!!!!....in fact just again yesterday. My issues are a blank LCD and now it won't power off.... I say all of this to say, As soon it returns from repair.....I'm TRADING it in for the Panasonic. I can live without the 5 axis stabilization.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Darryl Harris That's a shame about the E-M5ll. I've had a few people mentioning breakdowns of Olympus gear lately. I do hope it isn't a quality control matter but just a normal failure rate. There'll always be some faulty cameras out of the vast number made but two with one camera doesn't look good and it'd shake my trust in its reliability. The GX8 should be a decent replacement for the Olympus, very, very different in feel. I hope you like it as much as I do. I actually like everything about the E-M5ll.....except the size and therefore handling.

[@RogerThatFilms]

Your reviews are the best I've found on youtube so far. Great work!

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Thanks Roger!

[@WhiteHouseAussies]

Agree with everything said in your review. For all the technical improvements, though, the new control layout really stands out for me. Almost immediately after unboxing and beginning to use the GX8, I realized I was spending almost no time at all looking at the camera and thinking, hmmm, where do I find... The controls that get twiddled the most are right there, arranged logically. Wonder if it's because I'm a long time Nikon shooter? Dunno. But it's noticeable how seldom I have to stop thinking about shooting to think about the camera. This is the micro 4/3 camera I've wanted (and I started with Panasonic's first...) I only have one complaint... the little function button right of the lens is in exactly the location my middle finger hits when working with the camera, and I'm continually activating it. It came with shutter speed simulation set there, and it was making me crazy. I've now set it for turning the grid on and off, which doesn't bother me if it accidentally gets turned on, or off. I've suggested to Panasonic that every function button should have a "just disable the button" setting, since everyone seems to have one button or another that they accidentally activate all the time.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+EdNJ Good thought about the disable button. I haven't actually hit the front button by accident yet but I've set mine to the level gauge for exactloy the reason you've set it to guide lines. Otherwise, instinctive, I agree. I was a Nikon Ifilm) user too - maybe there's a natural affinity there.

Thanks David for another great review! If I could wish for something in a future review, it would be very helpful if you could add some pauses of, say, 1/2 sec or so between the statements, so that you have a chance to assimilate all your great findings. Thanks!

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Hans-Göran Puke I'll definitely keep that in mind. Thanks.

[@johnpeter4184]

Very late to this party.. :-) Just bought an excellent used GX8 and already have David Thorpe's book on this camera at hand. As a retired diesel mechanic with xl hands and tired of fumbling with a diminutive low end Oly, the GX8's size will find a new home for Oly's glass. Panasonic still has this camera on offer at considerably more than the G9 here in the US.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Camera costs get a bit out of kilter sometimes, don't they? The GX8's size and layout are ideal for anyone with larger hands and in terms of IQ the GX8 is little, if any different from the G9. Great EVF and ergonomics, too.

[@Gary_W]

I've been waiting for your thoughts on this camera, thank you for posting your video of GX8! I am watching it right now :)

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+bajigurwedangronde That's quick! I hope you like it.

[@Gary_W]

+David Thorpe I do like it! Your video helped me to understand the GX8 a bit more before I buy it. It's not yet available in my country but when it's available, no doubt I will buy it in a heartbeat. The weather-sealing, the faster continuous auto focus, the grip, the swivel screen, the new IBIS technology, and the slight bump in image quality, all tick the boxes in my checklist of which features to improve in GX7. Once again thanks for the video, and enjoy your GX8

[@Snowy57]

Thank you David for your enjoyable and helpful review. Since the announcement of the upcoming Panasonic Leica DG Vario-Elmar 100-400mm F4-6.3 lens I have been looking for the most suitable camera body to pair with it. That lens is very tempting for my wildlife and airshow use. I handled a GX8 in store yesterday and was quite impressed by it. The EVF looks really good as does the touchscreen. It fits my hand well and the controls seem well placed. I plan to use the GX8 and 100-400 along with my current Sony A6000 and 16-70 F4 Sony Zeiss zoom which I rate highly.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Barry Pate The GX8 and the new 100-400 will go together very well since they'll integrate their stabilization systems.What will work well with such a long lens will be the touch screen focusing while using the EVF. Focusing should be pretty slick, too.

[@Snowy57]

+David Thorpe Thank you for the reply David. I have been viewing some of your other videos. Really good viewing and most interesting.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Barry Pate Thanks Barry.

[@Mrgijs]

Great video David. Perhaps off-topic here but were some of these pictures taken in Collioure, France or around that area?

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Mr Gijs Thanks! The pix, not too far away. They are mostly in Carcassonne, with a few around Limoux.

[@Jez1963UK]

David, at 1m43s you mention the left hand viewfinder "keeps your nose from choosing the focusing for you" - is that because you look through the viewfinder with your right eye ? I'm *very* new to my GX8, had it a month or so and only now having time to learn how to use it. I'm overwhelmed by the complexity right now to be honest. But...... as I was learning about the focussing and being able to use the rear screen, yes, if I view the EVF with my left eye (more natural) then I find my nose does touch the screen and change the focussing..... I do know that Cartier-Bresson et al, users of the Leica, would use their right eye on the left hand viewfinder, to keep their left eye open and free to view their surroundings normally. As I've purchased this camera for Street photography, would you suggest I now do my best to also employ that style of usage ? Many thanks.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Ideally you'd have mirrored versions of rangefinder style cameras for left and right eyed people but the real world isn't like that and the majority right eyed people get the best of it! Yes, keeping one eye open is extremely useful and not too hard to get used to. I do it a lot. Sometimes if I really need to concentrate on something, I frame the subject (not too tightly) and look over the top of the camera with both eyes. I'm afraid the complexity of these cameras overwhelms a lot of people. I work with Micro Four Thirds cameras all the time and I still have to look things up sometimes. I have a book on the GX8 (what a great camera!) here amzn.to/2hj1bsy (USA) and here amzn.to/2hfLiCI (UK)

[@danciura4754]

Thanks for the review, probably the best I've found on youtube on the GX8. I have one question: how do you find the new sensor for birds, compared to the 16mp one in E-M1?

[@far0ashgar]

I have the same question, waiting for the answer.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+far0ashgar Thanks Dan. I'm not really a bird photographer so not much help. The new sensor has lost nothing by going to 20Mp and gained detail. All I can say is that of the E-M1 pleases you, the GX8 will please you a bit more. I see that Olymus are going to start using it too in the Pen F, so I imagine it will be in the next E-M1 too.

[@jcarltonphotography]

David Thorpe m

[@chiguy5877]

I will be purchasing this over a EM5II as my first MFT. Thank you for the great video.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Chi Guy Glad it was useful!

[@g0fvt]

I have watched this video too many times! I originally bought a GX8 about 3 years ago, loved it and it’s deceptive simplicity. So, in mid 2019 I am tempted by a G9 but an absolutely mint GX8 appeared, I didn’t find the GX9 persuaded me either so I now have another GX8. They are still a great camera for my purposes, great handling and that super EVF. Subjectively I have been amazed by the IBIS though some of my lenses do co-operate to do DUAL IS. Unfortunately as a hobbyist there is temptation to buy different formats in search of some sort of holy grail, what my camera needs most is to be taken out on adventures, it might be safe stashed in a Pelican case but it doesn’t take good pictures in there...

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

The GX8 is a great camera and its spec is still bang up to date. I couldn't agree more about the temptation to try different formats - it's far more productive to actually go out and take pictures. When you're stuck, new equipment is very rarely the answer. Because of my long experience with cameras and their professional use, I don't suffer from that with photography. However, as a hobbyist/ enthusiast guitar player, I am constantly having to talk myself out of searching for a holy grail. I have a bog standard instrument and convince myself that my playing would be better if only I had this or that...then I bring myself back to earth (somewhat unwillingly) by remembering that some of the greatest players spent their entire career playing the bog standard instrument that is apparently impeding my progress. It's a human condition, I suppose.

[@g0fvt]

David Thorpe, I can think of plenty of examples of that compulsion. Your video has persuaded me that I should use my function buttons! Keep up the great videos!

[@michaellazzari9180]

David is time laps available on this camera and how is it done.

[@simianinc]

And the clincher for me .... eye detection. It's hard getting focus on fidgety subjects (i.e. kids) when one of the fabulous m43 prime lenses are wide open. It's why I prefer my GH4 to my GX7 for portraits, but I think that the GX8 may just become my new stills camera

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+simianinc The eye detection is excellent, in line with the general focusing.

[@SonofGroucho1]

Another great review. Seriously thinking of buying one of these for use when I get too weak to lift my Nikon D800 with a 24-70 mm lens!

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Thanks Gordon. Yes, some people think the GX8 is too big but that's only by Micro Four Thirds standards. By others it is compact.

[@123HURST]

Thank you David Does the DFD focus scheme help focus lens such as the 20mm f/1.7 which is known to be a little slow (particularly in low light). Thank You

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+123HURST No, not really. The slow(ish) focusing of the lens is due to the lens focus mechanism itself so any gain from DfD would be minimal. Nonetheless, the GX8 will make the 20mm focus as fast as it capable.

[@immean100]

For stills only Gx8 or E-M10ii for street photography?

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Either one will do the job very well. I'd go on body size or EVF. The E-M10ll is beautifully compact, the GX8's EVF lets you see exactly what you are photographing big and sharp and clear. But both are perfectly capable modern Micro Four Thirds cameras.

[@atuldutta8949]

Excellent review David! You have any plans to review the recently launched Panasonic GX80 or GX85 and compare it with GX8? Thanks.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+atul dutta Thanks Atul! I have a GX80 on order and hope to get it soon and yes, I'll compare them.

[@caulacau2318]

In your opinion, what could be the reason for so sharp a drop in the GX8's price comparing with the Oly EM5II? You describe a superb camera which now is selling for less than £600 including cash back and with a kit lens. The EM5II remains well over £700 for the body only. Ani idea?

[@davidthorpe7732]

All I can think of is that newer models (I know, the GX8 is hardly old!) have better IBIS and no tendency to shutter shock. Looked at purely as a camera, it has a great EVF and the same 20Mp quality as the E-M1 Mk2 and GH5. At the price you quote it is excellent value. Its focusing is top notch, too. I can't find any material difference between it and the GH5 (or E-M1 Mk2, for that matter. There have been mutterings about a GX9, which would lower prices but given that Panasonic have just introduced 2 new models in the G9 and GH5S, I wouldn't think they'd hurry to bringin yet another. But, like Manuel in Fawlty Towers, I know nothing.

[@muttonmomo]

David, I am in a fix between the EM-5 II and GX-8 and the reason I would settle for the Olympus is because, with an additional two lenses, that is the most my budget will allow. Please tell me that as a beginner level photographer, I shall not regret that decision much if I choose to buy the Olympus instead. Thanks and happy new year.

[@Serenoj69]

+Niladri Haldar Take a very good look at the Olympus menusystem. I use both brands and personally I find the Oly menu's a labyrinth and completely lacking any intuition. The Panasonics, like David states in a remark, are very intuitive and logical. Those to my mind are extremely important factors for the fun you have with a cam. But others seem to like the Oly more. So my advice: take a good look yourserlf in a store, try if you can setup the cam without a booklet and how easy it is for you. No one else can tell you that, only you can.

[@muttonmomo]

Serenoj69 Thanks a lot for letting me know this. Much appreciated. Regds

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Niladri Haldar The biggest issue between these two cameras for me is the size. The E-M5ll is a bit too small for my taste. That's personal. For everything else, for whatever one has as an advantage over the other, the other has a balancing one. Both cameras are superb examples of the best of modern cameras. If the size of the Olympus is good for you, don't hesitate, you'll find no reason to regret it.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Serenoj69 I'd echo that.

[@andydean9479]

Good review as always David. I am currently looking at a new m43 system and have narrowed down to either the G80 or the GX8. With your experience in m43, which would you choose ?

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Hi Andy - thanks! If you don't mind the different form factors of the cameras, I'd go for the G80 right now. The GX8 has the 20Mp sensor and super EVF but the G80 has a lovely quiet shock free mechanical shutter, excellent Olympus class stabilization and a lovely not too big not too small size. To me, it is the classic Micro Four Thirds camera - and it has a battery grip if you want.

[@conradososa6238]

Great review as always, though I think il buy that 17mm before I update my original omd em5

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Conrado Sosa Thanks Conrado. The 17mm will work well with any camera you put it on so it's a great long term buy.

[@attentionaddicts]

looks great! but unfortunately the price and size have put me off (i already thought the GX7 was too bulky for its body shape). Need to upgrade my EPL5, think i might go for the EM10 II - cheaper and has those Olympus colours..

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+attentionaddicts I'm hoping to try an e-M10ll at some point, it looks to be remarkable value for money. I shoot RAW always so the colours are whatever I want but Olympus do have a specially pleasing rendition of JPGs to my eyes. I think the price of the GX8 will come down at some point and for me the body size is just about right, as is my E-M1. But what other camera system gives you such diversity of camera bodies yet will all share the same lenses, so that if you or I change our minds over size or price or whatever, we can keep all the lenses, the major cost of any outfit. Imagine the cost of going over from Pentax to Nikon, say!

[@attentionaddicts]

I shoot RAW too. But Lightroom has picture profiles for Olympus cameras under under Camera Calibration > Profile which match the cameras JPEG picturemode settings (natural, vivid, portrait etc). Not sure if EM5 mk2 is supported by Lightroom yet,so maybe you didn't notice this! You can also get Olympus JPEG colours with RAW using their free Olympus Viewer 3 editing software, but it's very slow and buggy.

[@attentionaddicts]

anyway agreed, probably the best thing about m43 is the variety of lenses AND bodies. something for everyone!

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+attentionaddicts It should be possible to get Olympus colours with a custom setting on a Panasonic body since some Olympus cameras use the same sensors as Panasonic. It would take a bit of work - maybe someone has already worked it out.

[@bradsatz]

Excellent review. I have a GM1 thinking of adding this to the line up. Any comment on picture quality difference between the two? I'm hoping not just improvements on camera experience but also better pics and better low light pics. I'm sure there are I just would like to hear your opinion on it. Cheers!

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Brad Satz The GX7, GM1 and GH4 all have the same sensor as far as I recall. The GX8 has more pixels but very similar performance, so it is a case of something for nothing in a way. Downsampling to 16Mp from 20Mp gives better noise performance, of course, so in that sense the GX8's performance is better.

[@bradsatz]

+David Thorpe Thanks for the reply! I look forward to your future uploads and posts!

[@MyJeanf]

hi David I have A G7 and was going to sell it and get the GH4. however many people are saying the the G7 has better low light capability. so now I am looking at the G80 or GX8 as my video camera mainly because they have in body stabilization and that is important to me , which I why I am not looking at the GH4. I basically want to do documentary work and want to up my game in video. would you recommend the G80 or GX8 or do you believe I should still consider the GH4. I am on a limited budget which is why the GH5 is not a consideration any advice would be truly appreciated as I am now completely confused. thanks JF

[@CindyTjoa]

I heard that gx8 has 49 focus point , question is it has good and fast focusing when taking video ? Especially when we take an object closer to the lens and back to our face..and compare to olympus pen f in fast focusing , which one wins over ?

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Both the GX8 and Pen F have decent C-AF in video. It intentionally isn't fast with either because fast focus changes with video look really awful. Most videographers use manual focus where possible but otherwise S-AF and a half press on the button will change the focus point.

[@bradsatz]

David, so now the new GX85(80) has me contemplating which to lust after, the GX8 or the GX85. I know the specification and price differences, but in the end which takes better pictures? Said another way, forget the things you get downgraded to on the GX85 what's your choice? Next up factor in the downgraded bits and does that change your mind? Does the new shutter and lack of AA filter get you sharper result? Is the 16 megapixel vs 20 megapixel sensor limiting for cropping in post or does sharper image make up for that? [I'm looking forward to your GX85(80) review and a GX8 vs GX85(80) comparison review. Thanks in advance for taking the time on these questions!

[@davidthorpe7732]

+Brad Satz I'm not sure when the GX80/85 will arrive but I'll keep those things in mind. The GX80 looks to be a very handy size and that could a real factor for people who find the GX8 too big. We shall see!

[@bradsatz]

David Thorpe It would be nice if they just surprised us with a GX9 that made all my questions irrelevant!

[@davidthorpe7732]

+Brad Satz Absolutely. They seem to have a rolling upgrade programme so that new items like the 20Mp sensor, GX80 improved stabilization, anti-shock shutter come in piecemeal and are then combined in the GH model. It's marketing, I suppose. Keep 'em wanting more!

[@glennsak]

I'm not a fan of the increased size and aesthetics of the GX8 over the GX7. I'll stick with my Oly EM5 mkii. Thanks for another great review. I'm happy you love your new camera!

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Shaka Thanks Shaka! I said somewhere that so good are these Panasonic and Olympus cameras now that any choice is a good one. You'll know how highly I rate the E-M5ll from my review. It's purely a size and handling preference for me, the bigger body.

[@glennsak]

Thanks, David. Dig your channel. Keep up the good work!

[@webjoe83]

Thank you very much for this excellent review... I Should receive my copy of the gx8 tomorrow so i am looking very much forward to that... Now i just have to make up my mind if i Should have pana 42.5 f1.7 or olympus 45 f1.8....

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Kasper Brødsgaard It's a difficult choice. If the money isn't the main factor the Panasonic is nice to have.

[@webjoe83]

+David Thorpe It would also fit perfect on my GM1, in that way I will have some stabilazation on it

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Kasper Brødsgaard If you have the GM1 the Panasonic 42.5 is definitely the best buy.

[@webjoe83]

+David Thorpe Just got my new 42.5 F1.7 Lens, an it is just so fun to shoot with. absolutely worth it. Thanks for some really great reviews an videos

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Kasper Brødsgaard I'm glad you like the videos - and even gladder you like the lens so much!

[@AlexMcDougallPhotography]

What would the performance be if you want to photograph/film moving things like aircraft?

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

An aircraft would likely be at infinity focus, so you could lock focus there and then the shoot as fast as the camera was able. AFC is very capable these days on Micro Four Thirds cameras. You can see in my review how good the GX8 is and essentially all the Panasonics are to this standard. The Olympus E-M1 Mkll with its phase detection focusing would be best for low light fast moving subjects like ice hockey but that's pretty specialist.

[@Gonzalo_Broto]

Good, detailed analysis, David! Just one question: I had the camera for a day and realized my shots (all RAW) were consistently less sharp than the ones I took with GH3 with added stabilization and even sharper lens (Nocticron with the GX8 vs. 35-100 f2.8 with the GH3), so I wonder if you have experienced the same or maybe it was a problem of that particular unit (though I have seen pictures in other online reviews that seem to have this same issue of lack of fine sharpness at 100%). All other aspects of the camera seemed great, but this one aspect was enough to make me return it.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Gonzalo Broto It sounds like you were getting the much documents 'shutter shock' effect, a slight (but at 100% noticeable) double imaging caused by the s'slamming shut' action of the mechanical shutter. It occurs with all cameras (including DSLRs) but seems especially noticeable with MFT cameras maybe because of their lower body mass. Olympus have a special shutter mode to cope with it but with Panasonic all you can do is use the e_shutter (I do 95% of the time) or avoid shutter speeds between 1/60th and 1/350th or so. It's possible that it is more noticeable still with the GX8 because the extra pixel count highlights it more. As a result of your coment I've just looked at some of my RAWs in Lightroom at 200% and certainly my pix with it are just as sharp as any other MFT body. An important point you've raised here, thanks.

[@Gonzalo_Broto]

+David Thorpe Thanks for your fast and detailed answer, David, though I also used the e-shutter since I was aware of the issue and it didn't solve the issue. It was not a night and day scenario, but the pictures were clearly less sharp with the GX8, so I'm not really sure what happened.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Gonzalo Broto I'm not sure either. Maybe a faulty camera but since the image you are seeing and focusing is straight off the sensor it is hard to see what it could be. Mine is certainly not less sharp with any lens than any of my other cameras. Maybe someone has some ideas?

[@squarehole4317]

hi sir, how do you solve webbing caused by fungus inside the lense?

[@Sikhislove]

Very well spoken David...downsizing from my 5DMK3 to this camera.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Thanks Ewin! I hope you find the system change to your liking. I'm sure you will, actually. And that EVF will be a revelation!

[@rufusleakin163]

How usable is it in dimly lit areas without a built in flash? Would just raising the ISO and(or) slowing the shutter speed compensate?

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Rufus Leakin With an f/2 or better lesn, slow shutter and the high ISO capability there wouldn't be many situations the camera couldn't cope with hand held. It'll focus in those situations, too. Otheerwise, a tripod will enable shooting in any light. The only problem with that is that sometimes at low levels the quality of the light is poor, directional or shadowy, for example. Then, the only way is with flash or (possibly) an LED lamp. I do like to have a flash with me just in case and Panasonic really should have supplied a small one at this price, even if it has to be separate.

[@FilmDat]

Great vid as always! I see you have the Olympus 17mm 1.8 mounted on the GX8 here. How is in the autofocus in video mode? I currently have the Olympus 17mm 2.8 lens and even though I love this lens for traveling, the autofocus doesn't seem to work on video mode on the GX8.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Thanks! The 17mm f/1.8 works very well for video or anything else on the GX8. It was designed with silent focusing and video in mind so no worries.

[@gpylgr1]

Hi David. I have seen many camera reviews but honestly your ones earn respect. I would like to ask a few questions that I believe you can answer in the best and honest way. I am interested in buying either the Olympus E-M5 II or the Panasonic GX8. I was able to visit a camera shop and to hold the E-M5 II but felt it would literally slip off my hand due to its weight and small plastic grip. As I have not yet held the GX8, which of the two cameras is ergonomically better? That is, is the GX8 better gripped for instance? Lastly, I have read (from dpreview) that MFT is dying! What is your opinion? Would you suggest APS-C mirrorless cameras to MFT? If so, which model would you recommend? Thanking you in advance, Jerry

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

The two Micro Four Thirds makers Panasonic and Olympus have invested huge sums in amazing new top line lenses over the past few months, not something they would do if they were in meltdown. I read the DPReview piece and thought at the time that their piece was sloppily argued and short on fact, contentious for a bit of fun. Nothing wrong with that. The market having problems with dropping sales at the moment is the DSLR, APS-C or FF, with mirrorless in general on the up. I take no pleasure from any drop in camera sales, by the way. The present crop of FF cameras are wonderful but for me, reminiscent of the big American cars of the 50's compared to the Japanese and European cars of today. Very, very big and impressive but not achieving much more than more modern designs in _real life_ use. I personally wouldn't move back to FF for love nor money, Micro Four Thirds has revitalized my interest in photography after a lifetime using FF cameras. I can only give an intensely personal view on the E-M5ll which is arguably the finest all round camera in Micro Four Thirds. It is too small and densely packed with controls. The GX8, on the other hand is one of the best handling cameras around with its spacious body, something you will appreciate the moment you pick one up. However, though I've not tried it yet, the GX80/85 looks to be exactly what you are looking for and I would buy before trying one. Whenever friends starting out in photography ask me to recommend a camera and lens, I suggest the Panasonic G7 with its well designed menu system, easy handling and useful size - plus the 14-140mm Panasonic zoom.. The GX80 looks to take over that spot!

[@gpylgr1]

Wonderful!! Thank you for the great feedback. Keep up the good work!

[@camerarover7124]

Hello David and thank you for your review. Which lenses in your opinion are best paired with this camera for depth of field and bokeh? I believe the four thirds sensor is not quite as good in this field as a DSLR. It's important in my work. Thank you

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+RCPHOTOMAN If you are looking for shallow depth of field as your _main_ consideration you would be better staying with your DSLR. For shallow depth of field on MFT, you really just need any lens faster than f/2 and 25mm or more. That will be a prime. But the smaller sensor of MFT means that for a given focal length you will be twice as far away as with a DSLR and therefore inevitably have more depth of field. It's all a balance and if you want smaller size cameras and (especially) lenses there is a price to pay. For me MFT hits the best balance and more DoF is just as much an advantage as disadvantage. but - no magic bullet, unfortunately.

[@camerarover7124]

+David Thorpe Thank you for your reply David. Your findings with MFT are much appreciated.

[@UmerNalla]

Hi David, Thanks for the review. Any plans to write a Simplified Menu guide for the GX8? If so, when will it be available?

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Umer Nalla Hi Umer - I'm doing it now. Very complicated! Should be with a couple of weeks.

[@UmerNalla]

+David Thorpe Thanks for the reply. That is one less reason why I should not to upgrade to a GX8 and stick to my GX7....

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Umer Nalla :-)

[@UmerNalla]

+David Thorpe Just ordered mine. Look forward to your book - happy to proof read and will still buy once ready.

[@codyrobinson22]

Are you going to review the Pen-F soon? I wanna see what you think in comparison to the GX8. My concern of the Pen-F is the small size & not being able to get a grip on it while the GX8 has a Great grip.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Cody Robinson I'm putting it together now. I'm going to review the Pen F and then do a more in depth comparison of the two cameras. They are very much the same and yet very different at the same time.

[@codyrobinson22]

+David Thorpe Can't wait David :) Nobody has done a direct comparison video online yet :)

[@r.l.7160]

Which? Panasonic GX-8, black with a Gariz Case or the Olympus OM-D E-M1 I am currently using an Olympus OM-D E-M5 I want to upgrade to one of these two cameras because they are both on sale through ebay. Overall image quality, durability and weather sealing are important. I shoot general still photography, landscape and some cultural events. I can see the need for video, but I haven’t done a lot, and it does seem to be the future. I personally like the Panasonic format, but I feel the Olympus may be a more durable camera. I’ve switched back a forth a few times. I have experience with my Olympus and my brother has an E-M1 and it has been good, but the Panasonic looks very tempting. What would you suggest? These are the lenses I have. • Olympus 12-40mm f/2.8 Pro • Panasonic 42.5mm f/1.7 • Olympus 40-150 f/2.8 Pro • Olympus MC-14 1.4x Teleconverter • Kipon adapter for some manual focus Konica Hexanon AR lenses I have.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

That is a difficult one, Rudy. I've not found Olympus to be any more durable than Panasonic or read anything that would suggest that problems with either make are any more likely. It seems to be mainly isolated instances that are just bad luck. You obviously have a leaning to the Panasonic and I wouldn't argue with that. The Olympus lense work very, very well with the Panasonic and if fact I find the focusing better with the GX8 than the E-M1. The E-M1 has better stabilization, of course but given that you like the rangefinder form factor, I'd go with the GX8.

[@r.l.7160]

Thank you for your timely response. I do like the rangefinder format. I really would rather have the GX-8, so that's what i'll do. I appreciate all your reviews and I hope the best for you. Thank you again. Rudy

[@paulbailey6251]

David, a question on build quality. I bought a new GX8 two weeks ago and one thing concerns me about the display panel. When fully folded against the body, either reversed or ready for use, my display has a very small amount of movement from top to bottom (vertically), a couple of millimetres only. This worries me (a little) because over time, the screen will probably be brushed against when putting into a bag, and even with your thumb when handling the camera. I phoned Panasonic and the woman I spoke to claimed it was 'normal' and the one she had to hand was the same. I asked about the GH4, and so she got one and claimed that was the same! I wonder if you have noticed this at all?

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

I just tried it. My GX8 is the same, so is the G80 and the E-M1 Mkll. it's as you say, a couple of mills, a tiny bit less on the Olympus so it must just be acceptable play in the hinges. I hadn't noticed it before, I should add.

[@paulbailey6251]

Thank you, David. I have never owned a camera with a fold out display before. As you say, it must be 'acceptable play' in the hinges - which is what Panasonic said to me. I found myself wondering why they had not designed in a tiny lip at the bottom to fully secure the display! I also bought an Olympus OMD EM5 mark 1, which was sold as 'mint' but was actually brand new (£210) Amazing quality! My first Olympus. As I was about to register my new Olympus 45mm on their website, I thought I'd try and register the EM5. It allowed me to register for the full 2-year warranty. I bought the EM5 from Camera Jungle, London. I'm not connected in any way, but your subscribers might be interested. Fantastic review, as always. I have been looking at your reviews for a couple of years now and after initially buying, then selling, my original Panasonic and switching to Fuji, I decided to return to MFT. I could not have found the necessary discernment required in understanding the essential differences in digital photography - not the dull spec sheets, without your in-depth reviews. What little I thought I knew was based on my use of my Canon SLRs from the mid 70s.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Thanks for the kind words, Paul. That E-M5, it is often forgotten what a bargain the 'old' model becomes after the new one has been out while. That's an absurdly good camera for the price of an ordinary compact. That's 45mm is a little gem, it really is.

[@RJPhotographics]

If only more camera reviews were as concise as this. Nicely done. Though I still am getting a headache deciding between GX8 and EM5 II.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Thanks! It _is_ a difficult choice.

[@RJPhotographics]

I went for the GX8. I previously tried a TZ80 and liked the 4k photo burst mode also found on the GX8. That sealed the deal. But I could only sell the idea to myself by buying an OM10 and a bunch of film too.

[@CafeKraft]

Fantastic and well thought review. Thank you!

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+CafeKraft I like the 'well thought out' - I sit down and work through my thoughts on a camera after a lot of use with it and 'well thought out' is exactly my aim. It's nice when it is noticed - thanks!

[@rachidaelrhouti1373]

+David Thorpe gffffgff

[@MatticusMoore]

Hi David! I'm having a bit of a drama trying to decide between the GX8 or the Olympus EM-5 Mark II. I recently purchased a GX-80 and I do like it but there's something not quite sitting right with me and I'm not sure what it is. Could you please give your opinion on which camera I should go for? I will hardly ever film video so that isn't a contender, this is purely for stills. I look forward to your response!

[@MatticusMoore]

Forgot to add that this will mainly be used as travel/street photography! So I like how relatively small both of these are in comparison to say a G80

[@davidthorpe7732]

Reading between the lines, it looks to me as if you may just not like the rangefinder style camera body shared by the GX80 and the GX8. I'd point to a coupe of other factors which may influence your decision. While the GX8 has a 20Mp sensor and the Olympus 16Mp, it makes no real difference to your results. The 20Mp is nice to have but certainly wouldn't be a factor in my choice. The GX8 also has the better EVF. Again, nice to have but the E-M5 II has a very good EVF and the difference between the two is only seeable side by side. The E-M5 II has in its favour better stabilization than the GX8 and in my opinion is as good as stabilization needs to be. It is also more compact and for many people the DSLR layout feels much more natural. The biggest downside of the Olympus for me is their menu system but others love it so that may be just personal. It all tilts to the E-M5 II as your choice, I think.

[@8thom00]

Hi David, thanks for the great review as usual, 90% of my MFT knowledge comes from you :) Just a note on the 'un-centred' hot-shoe: would you say it is not a big deal or you found it annoying? Sometimes an optical viewfinder might be useful and that being slightly out of axis can be a pit of a pain for shots taken at short distance...

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Giorgio Talocci I'm very pleased to have been so helpful, Giorgio and thanks for telling me. Given the brightness and low light ability of the EVF, I wouldn't see myself ever needing an optical finder with the GX8 and I hadn't though about it being offset. Not ideal, it is true but my experience of optical finders is of using them for general guidance of where to point the camera in a riot situation rather than for pinpoint accuracy!

[@8thom00]

+David Thorpe thanks for the quick reply and yes, I agree 100%, it just looks slightly odd to me (reminds of an old Kodak-Retina!) but I can imagine that EVF solves it all... I look forward to upgrading my beloved GX1 at some point, who knows when :)

[@codyrobinson22]

David when is the review on the Pen-F gonna done?

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Cody Robinson I'm writing it now. It's hard camera to get to know and put in perspective and I need to feel I fully understand it and what I think about it. It makes me a bit slow but I prefer to be honest than make the vid when I'm not sure. Early next week, all being well.

[@larryzapata2614]

I love this camera! almost perfect! just missing the flash and I would love if they could include V-Log I would pay for it!! it's a bit high price for most!!

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Larry Zapata Yes but it is cheaper than the GH4 which has those missing items. I think a lot of marketing goes into the price/ functionality equation since I doubt that the manufacturing costs of the GX8 or GH4 would be very different. I do think the lack of even a tiny flash is remiss of Panasonic, though. It's on a par with buying an Olympus lens and they don't supply a lens hood. I think their marketeers are probably the sort of folk who get invited to a party and don't take a bottle of wine!

[@larryzapata2614]

I think they make it a point to miss "something"! But I can live with this one much better than the missing mic jack on the GX7!

[@cholasimmons]

just LOVE this review! didn't understand half of it (I'm no photographer) but you did a heck of a job explaining! thank you

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Photography ought to be fun, i reckon!

[@andreathode3782]

Superb review with nice details (Vader) and good explanations (form factor). Keep up your good work!

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Andrea Thode Thanks Andrea!

[@TCKe]

Its a pity that the in body stabilisation does not work when shooting 4K. But maybe i am wrong? For me thats the deal breaker. And the external microphone is not a standard jack? It seams like they somewhat crippled the video on this camera? I enjoy my EM-5 but you are right its a bit small and no 4K so i am looking for an upgrade. And i love my old film Leicas hehe. Oh yes one thing they made it a bit plastic looking compared to the Olympus Pen. Thanks for the review :)

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

:-)

[@TCKe]

Nice to see you smiling ;)

[@Peizxcv]

Hey, we use the same OP/TECH strap system on our cameras.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Peichen01 I like being able to plug and unplug them at will but also they are soft on the wrist. Good prices, too.