A Minor Update - Panasonic Lumix G97

[@GeekyNerdyTechy]

Great review as always, Richard. Seeing DFD on a new camera in 2024 is a real shame - they missed the opportunity to upgrade an affordable camera with killer autofocus in the same form factor - that would have been a huge update for this type of camera body; even if they capped the video resolution to 4k. Your summary at the end was spot on. The community wanted something like the GX85 or S9 body - hopefully its in the works. Great stuff again mate 💪

[@daustonian9331]

I agree entirely. I love my G95 for being small and having fun features , but I was hoping for more than USB-C to meet the EU rules!! Phase Detect AF was key to add. Oh well, like a Cubs Fan - Next year.....

[@TheRealRichardWong]

Hey Shane, Yes this camera is really just a "minor" update (as my title), I believe to meet the EU regulations and replace some components that are no longer available so Panasonic can continue sell them. But I do really worry it means we won't see any small brand new micro-four thirds camera for a while. Yes A lot of people want a compact micro four thirds camera, I believe Panasonic know that too. But like I mentioned in my other video, I think it's not as straightforward as "just add PDAF" to a GX85. I've been pushing them to make such a camera too. I personally think S9 body with micro four thirds sensor + mechanical shutter + hotshoe would be great. However I have a feeling if Panasonic makes one, then the price may not be what people want to see.

[@borderlands6606]

@@TheRealRichardWong Your last point is the real issue, Richard. What people feel is a fair price for a used camera, may not translate into new camera prices. The GX80/85 was launched over 8 years ago at a kit price of £600. The 16mp sensor was already seen as old fashioned, and shops sold them with 12-32mm in 2018 for £350 (I bought one), presumably because they weren't selling well. Allowing for inflation, GX80 would cost £800 today without any other development, so we could expect a new Lumix m43 ILCC compact to sell for £1k+ with some of the things people are asking for.

[@ourtvchannel]

You don't need a small sensor these days to get a small camera and small lens combination and you certainly don't need a contrast detect autofocus camera at all if doing video.

[@Trevellian]

Panasonic need to release a modern successor to the GX85. A truly compact rangefinder style camera with a modern low-light sensor, PDAF, and the rest.

[@TheRealRichardWong]

I agree. I've been asking the same thing every time I talk to them too!

[@gordon3988]

‘Not in their plans to do so’. A surprising comment from the LUMIX rep on a ‘The Camera Store’ video a few months ago around the S9 and some comments on the MFT side. Suspect it would sell well.

[@andersistbesser]

@@gordon3988 lumix has abondoned mft. They just dont say it out loud. Its been more than three years since they released a new lense , no updated lenses, no lense firmware updates for their phase detect af cameras. My mft lenses newest firmware is from 2018… gh7 users are supposed to buy the super expensive 10-25 and 25-50 f1.7 lenses and the rest of the lineup will be sold until nobody wants their outdated contrast af focus cameras anymore. As a gh7 user with many lumix cameras in my place i am very disappointed.

[@A1223-v4i]

I carry my gx85 everywhere. It’s such a beast!

[@marcodimartino2810]

I agree too. Richard, do you have any power to connect with Panasonic to share our feedback?

[@mattisulanto]

People seem largely disappointed which is understandable. I think Panasonic made this super minor update because of the EU legislation. They added USB-C and at the same time a couple of other minor updates. By the end of 2024, all mobile phones, tablets and cameras sold in the EU will have to be equipped with a USB Type-C charging port. Maybe someone already mentioned this in another comment.

[@justint8115]

People forgot this is a low key release, refresh of an entry level model. Price is same as A6400 from 2019 and still uses micro USB and no IBIS

[@TheRealRichardWong]

Hey Matti, Yes I believe these two "new" cameras are partially due to EU legislation, and partially due to replacing components that are no longer available (or maybe getting close to) so Panasonic can continue to sell them. So as my video title, despite the new model number (as Panasonic already used the G95D) it is really just a minor update

[@vermis8344]

There was enough demand for new G90s, that Panasonic felt it was worthwhile to bring out a new USB-C model?! I'll buy your USB-C sockets, Panasonic. Just put them in a GX9ii.

[@mofuclarisu]

@@justint8115 you trade IBIS with really good AF and size with A6400 (and audio with af on 120fps)

[@AlreadyTiredOfYou]

All you had to do was to put PDAF on it, Lumix... what a dumb move.

[@michael2704]

Agree 100 %, would have been my backup camera for sure. What a shame

[@bemboing4338]

This camera was largely ignored when it came out so there must be a pile of these in stock and they're trying to get rid of those.

[@MichaelGerrard]

@@bemboing4338 It is a nice camera, the body is pretty good. But I agree that without even the LUT feature, this is not a properly updated model.

[@morcjul]

@@bemboing4338 and due to EU regulations they have to sell it with USB-C

[@devinwhall9407]

And at least 4k60. I have the g85 and it’s basically the same from 2016.

[@GrenlandUnderVann]

Is this the Lumix december announcement? Yiikes.

[@CLIFFLIX]

Same GH5-II sensor? No PDAF? I would guess they had a bunch of old left-over IMX272 sensors that needed a new home??

[@BHE_Crafts]

This feels like the MFT version of the S5D release.

[@OnlyCitrus]

It is. They are just making sure that they can keep selling this in EU due to the mandatory type C regulation.

[@adidabax6809]

No, I understood the S5D and they actually gave an upgrade in the gimbal compatibility that could be attractive. THis... I don't at all get.

[@grantrobertdavies]

Very Interesting Stuff :) Great Video - and great photos too, I love your use of colour :) Yeah man, its just missing that new autofocus and updated sensor, they could of really been onto something!!! - kinda like a mini gh7 or g9ii :)

[@TheRealRichardWong]

Thank you, glad you like the video and photos!

[@martingreenberg870]

If the G97 had the PDAF and 25MP sensor this body would undercut the G9ii sales. This announcement is a big yawn. LUMIX will not receive my money for this body. Mask On Nurse Marty (Ret)

[@xfingi5383]

Why doesn't Lumix listen to the community. We want a Gx9ii with Lut, 24MP and PDAF. without Video Performance.

[@n8-creates]

Thats literally a GH7 tho….

[@koreanbhai]

4K crop😢

[@uhu4677]

I agree. A crop with 4K is not acceptable. Also 30fps in 4K is not enough. Every new camera in 2024 or later should do 4K60p.

[@robertluxamafreethinker]

Sad, but true! At least!🤦🏽‍♂️

[@A1223-v4i]

I’m so excited about this camera

[@morcjul]

Still in love with my G85 from 2018 and I don't see any significant upgrade here in the G97 apart from USB-C charging which is disappointing. G9 II or S5 II are great upgrades though

[@NotALot-xm6gz]

Been rocking mine since mid 2017 and have given up on Panasonic releasing the newer sensor and PDAF in any photo centric product G80/90 sized.

[@devinwhall9407]

I still only have my g85, best camera and camcorder of 2016. Very few if any cameras offered unlimited 4k 30 and ibis at that time or a couple years after. As a dad videographer having unlimited recording for Christmas, school events… was critical. The autofocus is a little painful at times, but still serves me well. The g97 looks to be a huge disappointment, where’s the 4k 120 or even 60?

[@DrifterAtHeart-Woocash]

Good job showing it Robert. I've used a lot of Lumix cameras over years, I really enjoyed my G85 and G90 but upgraded to S5 and I love it. A G85/G90 with PDAF would be the PERFECT BEGINNERS CAMARA but seeing Panasonic not actually upgrading the AF but some random stuff feels disappointing. I understand that's to match the legislations etc(and get rid of overstocked parts), but they missed an opportunity to take over the "1st real camera" buyer market. Keep those videos coming

[@TheRealRichardWong]

thanks for watching! Let's hope we will see a perfect entry camera one day

[@michaelbell75]

Thanks! People complaining about this arent being realistic. This is a budget camera. There is not a single manufacturer who has a camera with 4k60, IBIS and phase detect AF for $850. You want all that? Get a G9II. This camera is fine for its price point and intended audience.

[@KathyXie]

i don't think is unrealistic to expect this to have the current generation sensor with phase detection autofocus and modern video specs even if it would have to be sightly more expensive. If Fujifilm which also has a small market share can do it with their X-S20 and M5 I don't see why panasonic can offer something comparable.

[@michaelbell75]

@@KathyXie The X-S20 is a $1,300 camera and the X-M5 doesnt have IBIS. So neither is comparable.

[@justint8115]

@@michaelbell75 XM5 doesn't have EVF as well

[@n8-creates]

I completely agree. People want the latest tech at a budget price, doesn’t work like that. I just don’t like that Panasonic is acting like these announcements are groundbreaking. S5D and a G97 are not anything to phone home about. We are all waiting for a followup to the S1 series and maybe a GX9 followup on the M4/3 end .

[@robertluxamafreethinker]

But at least, put 10-bit 422, 4k up to 30p without crop, and the new autofocus system. At least!! Honestly, this release seems to be a joke 🤦🏽‍♂️

[@Red35Photography]

Great video Richard. It's like Olympus when they decided to make the PEN EPL 10, which was the same as the 9 with minor updates. Yet, USB-C is welcome while more to do with EU compulsory ruling for charging cable and connector. So I guess they won't be able to sell anything new if they don't update them to USB-C. Pricing also not the most attractive to be honest, at least in the UK. For £100 more, you have the Fuji X-M5, Hybrid AF, bigger 26 MP sensor, Video wise, 6.2K open gate, 4k 60. Ok, it doesn't have weather sealing or IBIS or EVF, so it depends on your shooting style.

[@TheRealRichardWong]

hey Jimmy, the XM5 is definitely a great little camera! If i don't already have a XH2 (and a XT3!), i would be tempted to get one. Let's hope Panasonic or OM System will create a brand new compact camera that can bring excitment to micro four thirds users who love the compactness of the micro four thirds system.

[@angeloplayforone]

Jimmy, thank for your reply. You wrote the same point I wanted to say to Richard. The Fuji X= M5 is an excellent entry level camera.

[@lltechview]

Talking about updates. Is there a G100 or G110 update planned by Panasonic?

[@franksiessa]

The update has been done since December 2023, with the Lumix G100D USB-C port, you weren't aware?

[@simval84]

​@@franksiessathey released a G95D at the same same as the G100D, it was just a small update swapping the EVF basically.

[@n8-creates]

OM-System/ Panasonic is really missing out on getting that Fuji X100 crowd. Micro 4/3 is the perfect system for a street photography/travel camera. I get they want to appease the vloggers and casual shooters but come on, give the loyal fans something to talk about. A followup to the GX9 would be perfect

[@andersistbesser]

So basicaly lumix did nothing with this update.. i own 6 lumix cameras but i am very disappinted with this conpany. No phase detect autofocus, 8 bit, no 4k60 , crop in 4k .. This camera more or less is the same as my g81 from 2016. There is absolutely no reason to buy this camera in 2024. Meanwhile there still is no l-mount to mft adapter and the firmware of my mft lenses is from 2018.. no updates for phase detect af in g9 and gh7, no new or updated lenses. Lumix does absolutely nothing for mft users these days..

[@michaelbell75]

This is a budget camera. There is not a single manufacturer who has a camera with 4k60, IBIS and phase detect AF for $850 lol. You want all that? Get a G9II

[@andersistbesser]

@michaelbell75 you can get a old g9 for this kind of money and it has everything g97 is missing... I would not buy a camera with bad autofocus anyway.. its 2024!. You can get phase detect af in stone age old and super cheap sony 6000...

[@michaelbell75]

@@andersistbesser Not talking about used cameras. This is a new camera.

[@petercavendish6935]

this is a budget camera. Sony's budget camrea doesn't have IBIS, still uses micro USB, old LCD and selling at same price.

[@petercavendish6935]

​@@andersistbesser A6000 has no IBIS, terrible LCD, no features overheat quickly the list goes on. and XM5 you mentioned doesn't have IBIS or EVF. Both deal breakers for a lot of people

[@MichaelGerrard]

They missed a trick. I don't agree with this argument that PDAF makes the camera larger, that makes no sense. Oly made the E-M5 III and OM-5, it is the same size as the G9x. The Fuji X-M5 is even smaller with a larger sensor. Where is the LUT feature? This isn't getting new users into the Pany eco-system. This is laziness by Pany. They don't want to spend the time and effort. The G97 is still a great camera for many, that is for sure. But it doesn't inspire.

[@justint8115]

For other companies maybe not, but for Lumix, the only processor they have that supports PDAF is the processor on S5II, GH7 which has higher power requirement as Richard said. Other companies may not have this issue as they have been doing PDAF for ages. Unfortunately not for panasonic.

[@MichaelGerrard]

@justint8115 Panasonic have a long history of making small bodies and fitting a lot of functionality into them. They can do this, it is not rocket science. The fact that other manufactures have done it, even many years ago, shows it is doable. Pany are lazy and cutting corners. It is not a good strategy because an entry level camera should pull new users into the system, not making an effort here will cost them much more in the future.

[@ericaceous1652]

Thanks Richard. No shade on you - but this feels less Lumix, more Lame-ix.

[@petercavendish6935]

this is a budget camera. Sony's budget camrea at same price is A6400, it doesn't have IBIS, still uses micro USB, old LCD and missing a lot of features too.

[@AndyLSB]

@@petercavendish6935oh yeah Sonys budget camera you mentioned is from the same year as this one lol, no improvements at all 😂 check the Fujifilm XM5, sure no evf and no ibis but most people care about PDAF and that has it, either you like it or not, that’s a reality and it’s a necessity for most users, also the xm5 does not have a crop in its 10BIT 4K, it goes up to 60 and even 6.2K open gate and STILL in 10bit, things I bet lumix offers in this model right ? Oh yeah it doesn’t …

[@justint8115]

it's a very low key release, more like update of their budget lineup. That's why it's one week from Christmas. We should blame rumour sites for hyping things up.

[@TheRealRichardWong]

It is really just a minor update so they can continue to sell the G90/95. Companies have different product lines, some are exciting and have new and fancy features like GH7, then some are just more or less boring updates but they do actually sells a lot as general consumers don't mind if there is nothing exciting. Look at the G100D, almost everyone said it's a terrible camera when G100 was released, but the G100D is still selling really well in some markets

[@jf9979]

Other than the 4K crop and dfd focusing system, seems like an excellent camera.

[@essiturbo]

Nice Test Richard.But i think without the PDAF is this a deal breaker for many fotografpher. Wich reason i should buy this cam when i get a better OM5 with many more specs like live ND and PDAF?

[@TheRealRichardWong]

USB-C port? 🤣 But on a more serious note, OM5 is also a minor update of 2019 Olympus OM-D E-M5III, with similar amount (i.e. not much) of changes. Some would argue OM5 has more software changes but I myself just really don't like devices released in 2023 still use micro USB. I understand OM5 body only is now around $1k. But don't forgot it was launched at $1200 body only last year. While the G97 launch price is $850 WITH the 12-60 kit lens. And usually, Panasonic's camera price will drop a bit if you can wait 6-12 months.

[@essiturbo]

USB Port 😂.You are right with the price.I will not say the g97 is a bad cam.

[@SakaphotoGraphics]

Panasonic's web site says that the G97 will be available in late February 2024 for US$849.99. I'm thinking someone is so accustomed to writing 2024 that they made a mistake.

[@TheRealRichardWong]

Oh haha i heard it's first quarter 2025 so definitely not 2024

[@WolfgangHn]

Thank you, this is a fantastic presentation of the G97. I also think it is a strategy of camara companies to upgrade with minor features. Do you think there will be an upgrade of the GX-series?

[@theiansm]

I did my last wedding film video a week ago. I used the S5, S5ii and my old G85 and G95. I love my full-frame cameras, but my gawd holding on to them for several hours just made me appreciate carrying my 2 Micro 4/3s. And I've always thought, if they had great video autofocus, it would have been game over for the travel vlogging community. Not a lot of people understand how weight also adds a significant consideration when you film your travels, and as someone who uses S5ii, I can definitely say I'm okay switching to the G85/95 if they had PDAF. You're wasting your potential Panasonic.

[@dimitrimoonlight]

I just happy that Panasonic isn't abandoned micro 4/3 camera.❤

[@adidabax6809]

When someone is cobbling together parts... they are abandoning those things.

[@jeffriart]

I just recently bought G100D for daily carry, was waiting forever for the latest sensor to trickle down into smaller body, but the recent promotion with free 9mm Leica lens is too good to pass. Quite surprised to wake up to a new MFT camera announcement, but oh well, it's quite disappointing. Aside of the limited controls and IBIS, the G100D has almost the same feature set as this, while being much smaller. So I guess I'm set with this until the next GX series update. Great review as always! I think this is still a good camera for those looking to buy into MFT system in 2024. We may wait more for the latest tech, but we basically have no options today between G100D and G9II, so this filled the gap.

[@TheRealRichardWong]

yes. while i'm also a bit disappointed about the lack of changes and I wish it has PDAF, I still think it is great for people looking for a cheap camera.

[@hunglongdee2587]

we all want a GX85 with PDAF.....still waiting

[@DawnBellDuskDrum]

Do you think Panasonic will ever make another GX series camera?

[@martingreenberg870]

No. I am hoping for the G9ii guts in a S9 body. I’m hoping to win the lottery. Which hope is more likely? Mask On Nurse Marty (Ret)

[@DawnBellDuskDrum]

@ yeah actually I think it makes more sense to have S9 with M43 sensor, so that it can have EVF and the smaller sensor does not seem to be a big problem for its target audience.

[@TheRealRichardWong]

Yes I think we will. But I don't expect GX9 size, my guess is a S9 body as it is probably the smallest body that can fit the latest generation processor/motherboard/battery. Hopefully, we will have a mechanical shutter. But then I also won't expect it to be much cheaper than G9II because.. it's basically the same camera just with a different form factor.

[@garbageman3992]

dont think of the g97 as a "new camera model", its not supposed to be, think of it as a slight update to the g95 to keep it modern enough to sell. Lumix didnt want to make a new camera model thats entirely different, they didnt want to make a new camera at all really, they just needed to add some simple changes to the g95 to keep it up to date and those changes ended up being big enough change to call it a new model. its really just a g95 with the ability to connect to their modern app and use the modern usb standard like all the competitor brands models and they threw in a better screen cuz why not? if its being labeled as a whole new model then might as well make a few more cheap simple changes like the screen and such.

[@eyeswideopen565]

Great review Richard! I just hope they release a GM1 or GM5 successor in the near future! I’m not getting any younger! 😂

[@TheRealRichardWong]

Oh yes that would be great! Hopefully they will.

[@wojciech2456]

No live LUT? bummer

[@KwasnikPictures]

Something fresh! 😮📸

[@TheRealRichardWong]

kind of, kind of not 😅

[@dirk.4711]

What I like: The old 20MP sensor. File size is significant smaller than the new 25MP sensor and image quality for that target group is very good. What I do not like: Lack of PDAF. But looking at the feature set and lack of PDAF, Lumix seems to plan this G97 model to be offered longterm at a much lower price than list price. There is room for more models with PDAF. The G97 will end up at around 499.- in a few months and a new PDAF model will be available probably between 999.- and 1199.- I hope that Panasonic does not wait too long for the release of such a MTF PDAF model below the G9ii.

[@angeloplayforone]

I don’t think they will do this. The GH6 will cover this pricepoint in the next 3 years.

[@georgb.920]

One of your best and most helpful videos for me was: How to take better photos with Huawei smartphone? Huawei Camera App Settings explained. Now I have an Honor Magic 6 Pro and would love to see a video from you about the camera app.

[@boringstein]

everyone's complaining about DFD but the egregious thing here is 8 bit video. that's just canon-esque purposeful feature withholding.

[@HeichKiu]

Hi Richard👋🏻 here.. your best FOLLOWER from México 🇲🇽(6 years ago) ..totally agree with you!! fell short.. needed a better autofocus.. plus (i guess) Dual SD CARD bay.. i still have my loved G85 ..wich i found your Channe😅l.. at the end i think a G9 is a better option for entry (today) level ...because capabilities + price point!! Today i have 2 x GH6, G9II, G9 and little G85 with Leica & Zuiko lenses... Thanks for your great reviews!!👋🏻

[@pwolkowicki]

I realy enjoy usb charging. That's a small but great feature! Can you use the camera while charging? Can you use it as a web-cam?

[@TheRealRichardWong]

According to the info I was given it can be usb powered. Re webcam you might need to use the LUMIX webcam software but I haven’t try that. It might be better just get a cheap hdmi to usb adaptor instead as you can then do 4K

[@Behnam_Moghaddam]

as an owner of the G100, G85, GH6 and an S5 (OG) i really don't need another DFD-AF cam from lumix at all still waiting for a "mini G9 ii" :)

[@kwchalky02]

I have been waiting for ages for the update to the G90. I have a G90 and love the size and weight, but was hoping for version with the new autofocus and less crop in video. But the G97 doesn't have either. What a disappointment. 😢

[@TheRealRichardWong]

I can understand your disappoinment. I would be the same if I was you. Just curious doing you use your g90 more for video or photo?

[@kwchalky02]

@@TheRealRichardWong I use it mostly for travel photography and landscapes. I have a G9 too, but for a lot of the time I prefer the G90 because of its smaller and lighter build, which I find ideal to wander about with in my hand. The autofocus is excellent for photos, so it's not a huge problem that it doesn't have the better autofocus in video as I don't use it much for video, but would have been nice for when I do.

[@iseethedifference]

I don't really get how it can compete with a second hand G9. no 10 bit video, no PDAF , no AI autofocus , no real time luts. What's wrong with Lumix ? I bought a second hand G9 and i always feel anoyed by it's autofocus. because i own a Sony a7III i got used to fast and accurate autofocus in video. I really want a GH7 but OMG 2000 GBP is a lot for an MFT sensor.

[@HungTran-wf3gu]

Quite hate the camera industry now, if u compare the phone from 2019 and now, there are so much improvement. In camera we have the same thing for 6 7 year😂😂

[@harryvlogs7833]

Is this the new camera that was coming this week slightly disappointing

[@kazu9368]

Hi Richard, do you prefer this one or gh5 mark ii for photo shooting? I suppose the gh5 ii has better view finder or lcd, right? Not sure the color of this g97 is the latest version or same with g95. Thank you again for the wonderful review as always

[@TheRealRichardWong]

GH5II would be my choice as it has better EVF, using newer processor and should be have image stabilisation as well. However i think the GH5II would be quite a bit more expensive and also heavier than the G97.

[@kazu9368]

@ thank you so much, Richard. And Happy new year！😄

I like the flash :) It's hard to get excited about this new model, it's not bad, but it shows Panasonic's lack of "focus" on what the market is asking for.

[@kmwong1786]

People who hoped for the big announcement of the S1 series successor are sooooooo disappointed ☹️

[@paolopicchel653]

As a lover of the brand I honestly do not understand the logic of the latest models put on the market, however for my needs as a photographer and considering the price it could support my OM1 so as not to have to change the lens. Thank you for this interesting video.

[@joachim1717]

I bought the GX9 in 2024 as my „new“ travel camera for 550€. I combined it with the Leica lenses 9mm and 15mm, both f1.7 and the lumix 30mm f2.8 macro. This is such a great kit for landscape, nature, traveling and even astro works well if i use my light tripod. I don’t see any reason to buy a new camera with almost the same „old“ features for the double amount of money. Oh, and i want to sell my Lumix S1 and S5 on the same day when a new S1 Body will be launched.

[@AndyLSB]

Great video Richard, such a waist of a camera from Lumix, you spoke beautifully about it, Lumix should be extremely great full to you for that, but to put it simply, if Fujifilm can put out a $800 camera that can have PDAF, 6.2K open gate, DCI 4K up to 60fps with proper log, FLog2, and 10bit in a SUPER compact body with a bigger sensor, Lumix shouldn’t have a problem doing even more, with the added bonus of IBIS, really really mediocre from Lumix, I kind of was hoping to stick in the M4/3 system since I love it but I guess I’ll stick with the FF Lumix ecosystem as well as my Sony Ecosystem, I know the GH7 and G9II are outstanding, I had the GH6 and loved it but I wanted something more compact, and they won’t deliver, such a stubborn company that despite critics and everything they lost for not listening to their customers, they decide to go back to that same hole…

[@justint8115]

XM5 doesn't have EVF, IBIS thought, two very important features for a lot of photographers. G97 is same price as the A6400's street price today which was a 2019 release. A6400 doesn't have IBIS, crappy LCD screen, micro USB and a lot of even older parts. Sony is not even updating that or releasing any entry model camera.

[@AndyLSB]

@ oh and PDAF is not important for photographers ? It’s marketed as a Hybrid camera right ? 10bit video, 4K 60, no crop in 4K, open gate and more of those things are not important either ? Yes you are comparing it to a Sony a6400 which came out at the same year this camera did, oh wait, that was the G95 which has the same specs right ? Todays user wants PDAF and more video specs, most people don’t care for evf, do you have a camera with one ? Do you actually use it ? And ibis is not needed if the camera is in a tripod or you Could use a gimbal, and the XM5 at least has digital IS so it’s not a total lost, oh and it’s $800 for a better APSC sensor with more resolution and SO many better specs, I’m not going to argue this, it’s just common sense really

[@TheRealRichardWong]

Thanks for watching and comment Andy!

[@RangKlos]

They upgrade the G90/95 to replace the existing one without price hike, plus they didn't force anybody to buy it so, what's the point for disappointing?

[@Dome4567]

I have a G7 and a gx80...why should i buy this?

[@NetvoTV]

Do you think they will update the camcorder WXF1 which has a twin cameras with an USB C like these new updated but same camera lineups or it won't and safe to buy?

[@AndrewPRoberts]

No 10bit is crazy

[@AllThingsFilm1]

It is so strange that Panasonic released a new camera without PDAF. What the heck are they thinking? I was hoping the G97 would make a great KZbin camera so I can save my S5ii for just higher end projects. But, with contrast based AF they're just shooting themselves in the foot. Weird.

[@KelvinSchwartzGrunlicht]

Surprise :) Glad that they're hanging in there. Maybe the G90 series will be the retro goat to get in a few years. The PDAF whining and moaning seems to go over the top here and there. Even Canon skipped their dualpixel magic in the latest G5 and G7 X compact hybrid cams and they're sold out everywhere at the moment.

[@beholder2012]

20:00 „Final thoughts (a bit of disappointment)” - as for me G90/95 (and now 97) are „good enough” and actually the only change I would expect in newer model would be even better sensor. No, the current one isn't bad - but if we could get more crispy picture with better microcontrast and with less noise, it would be excellent. Other than that such „old” (6 years) camera meets my expectations. And look, you're calling such capable gear „entry-level camera”! 😅 And yes - probably you're right - just we need to realize, what „entry-level” means today.

[@gordon3988]

Fair and well done review! Like you I was disappointed with g97, especially not incorporating PDAF but realized it is still a nice camera for photos and some limited video needs. Small, with effective IBIS, an EVF and its weather resistant. Not bad, but a missed opportunity, essentially a 6 year old camera to be released in 2025! I suspect the ‘should have been what MFT produced camera’ Fuji X-M5 will be wildly more popular, despite missing some of the attributes here.

[@MTKnockOut]

idk your tz99 video has me more excited than this currently, maybve minus v-log but if that can do HLG and D-Cine and I saw it for under 300$ im def getting that

[@stvkrenim]

Extremely minor update. I have the Lumix G95D and I'll stick with that, thanks.

[@LOLA6ifyable]

Public: S1H II !! S1R II Panasonic - Yes here is a compact camera rivling canon Gx7 III and that...

[@amanandapan9635]

is it the same as G95D?

[@morcjul]

@@amanandapan9635 it's the successor of the G95D with only minor upgrades like USB-C charging and higher resolution display

[@MatthewDangyou]

I hope they at least put in lumix lab firmware update to get people hype on that. But I think you hit the point with applying to the new EU laws

[@TheRealRichardWong]

hey Matt, I think the problem is that the G97 is basically a G90/95 so it uses a much older Venus engine. Real time LUT and Lumix lab support were only implemented in the latest Venus engine, the one used in S5II/S9/GH7. So for the G97 to support that, either Lumix has to re-implement it on that old Venus engine even if it's technically feasible, i can imagine it's a lot of work so it's probably not financially viable/sensible especially Lumix would most likely want to move to the newer Venue engines for most of their future cameras.

[@oneeyedphotographer]

The OM-5 is quite a bit lighter, has PDAF. And a charger. I was more than a little annoyed to find my G9 II has no charger. While it supports PD, it takes near four hours to charge one from flat. I can easily flatten 2, 3 sometimes more in a day. It's not tenable. I have several PD power supplies, I just need a battery holder. Perhaps dual or triple port.

[@pgulysse1]

Hope #Panasonic #Lumix can have a PDAF 20MP sensor for the successors of the #G100 and the #G97. They can keep the higher 24MP PDAF sensor for the #G9 and #GH7 lines. If they can add IBIS in the #G100II it would be super great.

[@Ulrich.Bierwisch]

I would like a new entry level camera had 4k without crop and PDAF but it looks like there is no sensor available that can do this. On the other hand, the price point at the start with kit lens is pretty low so this camera is a great solution for starting below $1000.

[@angeloplayforone]

Nikon Z50 m2 has no crop in 4K video.

[@Ulrich.Bierwisch]

@@angeloplayforone I know that there are sensors that can to 4k without crop but not in the low cost area of MFT. The Z50 has 4k30p without crop but it has no IBIS. Hand held Video without good stabilization is always a bit jittery. The sensor in the OM-5 and EM1-III has PDAF and can do 4k60p without crop. If this sensor could be used in low cost cameras like the G97 it would be great.

[@angeloplayforone]

@@Ulrich.Bierwisch The OM sensor is an old sensor, more then 8 years ago. It is time to fit it into the OM-10. Problem is that OM Digital Solutions does not have any meaningful R&D, so they are afraid to canabilize the OM5 sales if they use this 8 years old sensor in the OM-10. Unfortunately for them Nikon, Canon and Fuji are moving full steam ahead releasing cameras. Nikon sensor is a derívate of the 10 year old D500 sensor only with PDAF pixel on it. The problem is not the image sensor, but the image processor, as Richard Wong said. Other manufacturers has old image processor that supports PDAF that they can use. Problem for Lumix is that the danced to much the DFD song and now PDAF is a breaking feature and they don’t have it in all their cameras. Nikon z30, z50, Zfc and Z50 m2 all has PDAF. Canon R100, R50, R10 all are using PDAF.

[@Ulrich.Bierwisch]

@@angeloplayforone The IMX269 cant read the 16:9 area for 4k30p fast enough from the full width of the sensor. The image processor can't help to get the ad-conversion faster. The IMX272 from the OM-5 can read 4k60p from the full sensor but this also need the image processor to be faste enough to handle the amount of data. This sensor can do up to 1 billion ad conversions per second. This amount of data has to be de-bayered and re-scaled to 4k and squeezed into an h.264 or h.265 codec. When the GH5 and EM1-II came out and I made this calculations I was shocked that this was possible in such a small camera at this price. A lot of today's cameras are still not at this level. If you look closer, a lot of them have crop or line skipping at 4k60p. At 15:19 you can also see how good the IBIS works for video. The CIPA measurements for stills don't tell how good the stabilization is for video. Panasonic is on a complete different level in this category. I don't know if this is much improved over the G95 or if it is the same.

[@Raist3db]

This is basically the "must have USB-C by EU law" required model. Nothing new for MFT. I guess the only "good" thing is that they bothered doing a USB-C refresh at all. But man is MFT in trouble with all these non upgrades or abandoned cameras. In the mean time Fuji releases an X-M5 with what was the premium sensor for XT3/XT4 in a very small package that is quite quite video capable also and has better AF/image quality. Eh MFT.

[@beholder2012]

I'd like to see in „Settings” menu of new cameras the option: „use DIN rather than ISO for speed display”. Nowadays we have still higher and higher ISOs in our cameras, and as a result we count more and more zeros (like ISO 51200 or even 204800). That's not practical anymore! Why not again use logarithmic units which DIN scale offers? So on the display I would read „24° DIN” instead of „ISO 200”, „27° DIN” instead of „ISO 400” and so on (each 3 DIN more means the speed has doubled). DIN offers way more practical units to display the speed of the sensor than ISO numbers, that presently are becoming incredibly long.

[@hoatd1993]

Shooting sport action photos without PDAF nowaday is a nightmare.

[@Enlightenment_2025]

No 4K 60p nor PDAF nor 10-bit video in Dec 2024. What's the matter with you, Panasonic?

[@michaelbell75]

This is a budget camera. Who has 4k60 with IBIS and phase detect AF for $850? Nobody.

[@Enlightenment_2025]

@@michaelbell75 Fujifilm X-M5. 4K 60p, PDAF no EVF and IBIS.

[@michaelbell75]

@@Enlightenment_2025 Nope. No IBIS, no deal.

[@renehenriquez666]

$850 with the kit lens?❓🤔

[@RB-pp5tv]

I am waiting for an update of the GX9. I bet we will get a new EVF, replacing the sequential field one, and hopefully some other improvements, like higher speed card slot, menu or whatever software related updates. I don't think we will get a new body, definitely not a new sensor, or anything revolutionary. After Panasonic's 3 recent "new" camera update releases, I think it's best to lower our expectations, and just be happy that we would get a GX99 or GX89 or any compact M43 camera however little new features are in it. 😉 🤞🏻 No wonder M43 is so successful and the future so bright, with updates like these from Panasonic, not forgetting the great new camera OM5. Now, I know there are many who disagree, the 25 or so wildlife, sports photogs and movie makers with the money and muscles to use the newer M43 gear from now on. The dinasaurs among us still trying to take photo pictures the traditional way should understand that we are expected to in time fade away and should be grateful to P&O that some selected camera updates are actually still made every 6 years or so. Merry Christmas. 😄

[@maniratnamcreator]

No 10 bit, no decent af, no 4k 60fps , crop at 4k - what a wasted opportunity lumix . Look at fuji xm5 .they had punched all latest tech into a entry level body .

[@vidthreenorth4007]

One thing that has disappointed me in all cameras in general is that the companies treated their products like "toasters", with little long term support. I think, for example, if their software teams were better organized, they should still be able to support cameras back as far as the G85 with firmware updates. Certainly, not all new features would be in all cameras, but many "newer" features are probably within the abilities of older cameras. This can be done by organizing design teams around a conditional "master program design" staring at a generalized program model that all the design teams have and just filling in the part that each team is assigned. On another matter, the DFD auto-focus is particularly unfortunate since it is the "beginner" who needs it more than a more experienced photographer. But if they can under-cut the price of the competition (Canon R50?), it might be worth it.

[@DandoPorsaco-ho1zs]

DFD? Panasonic is obsessed with their most hated feature. Not a camera I'll be considering, then.

[@FieldingSmith]

I would have paid that amount for a GM body with those specs… a g90 body though? Some of the rebates for the G9ii have put it within spitting distance of that.

[@naga2015kk]

"when I was younger"....hahahhaa Panasonic has the M43 market to itself so its taking its sweet time to releases. Olympus might be sold to Huawei, it will be a spymaster camera :)

[@wojciechczupta]

they should do a new GX7, with the new sensor and phase detection. And they can even drop the viewfinder to lower the cost. Something like S9 but with M43 at price noticeably lower than G9ii. This upgrade feels like a waste of time for Panasonic R&D. (anyway I already bought G9ii, which is great but big for tiny M43 lenses)

[@TheRealRichardWong]

but if it's a new GX with new PDAF (and therefore the latest processor, motherboard, battery..etc) and especially same sensor, then the price would be the same as a G9II isn't it? If it uses the 20MP sensor, then it can be a bit lower. However I have a feeling people will then complain it's the same sensor

[@wojciechczupta]

@@TheRealRichardWong not really. The difference should be like the difference between S5iix and S9, which is roughly 36% - that's a significant difference to my taste.

[@michaelzan2122]

@@wojciechczupta you got it right on; no answers for this statement 😂

[@shinsenbii]

There is a rumor that Panasonic will announce a new camera in January 2025. I will not be surprised if it's gonna be G7D or G85D or GX9D. 😂

[@TheRealRichardWong]

😅

[@ZieglerArmin]

I owned the g7 and g85 and love the formfactor and while the g85 was a great update which had ibis and was weather sealed, the g95 never interested me cause of it's terrible crob in 4k. I can't believe that this minor update still has the crob and no improved autofocus. While I loved the form factor, I moved to the g9 and consider a g9II. This minor update does not make any sense for me and I can't imagine that it will sell well.

[@Channel-xx8qt]

Lumix G97 is game changer if use PDAF.

[@Mraz75]

Hahaha while people hate fujifilm XM5 does not has EVF and stabilisation as a deal breaker, This G97 has both features. I should be grateful and wait its price to go down as so many people dislike this camera. I’m sure those haters will buy XM5 and ZVE10 II..

[@doscheid]

G97 is panasonic telling us MFT is dead.

[@Hexlord]

Baby G9 at entry level pricing? Amazing!

[@richardgorski23]

not even close. Buy a used G9

[@Hexlord]

@richardgorski23 good luck finding one with less than 10k sc!

[@Hexlord]

@@richardgorski23 if you can find a good working set for the same price! let me know if you do find one new. 😂

[@justint8115]

@@richardgorski23 you can't compare old with brand new

[@doscheid]

Panasonic is just being stupid by not putting PDAF in this camera. Good video AF is a must have in a entry level camera. Probably the most important feature to hook people into to the system, as most people will start by working alone.

[@markschneider1396]

I guess it's better than the G95 you can get for 150 USD less. But what's the point?

[@davidcmpeterson]

This seems like only a very modest update from the ancient Panasonic G85 that was released way back when the dinosaurs roamed the earth in 2016? It's a tough spot they're in I suppose, because on one hand people are complaining about how expensive cameras are, and the lack of low end models. But then when a camera gets released which fits into this category (US$850 with the kit lens) then people hate upon it for being so boring and lacklustre. I guess the big problem is you can too easily just get a second GH5 or G9 instead at this price point. But if Panasonic went any cheaper they'd be making a loss on the G97?! Why though can't Panasonic at least offer 10bit internal recording? As after all the old GH5 & G9 can do it, which are the main secondhand competitors vs buying a G97 new.

[@AoyagiAichou]

Ah, my beloved got another insignificant facelift, this time to comply with EU regs. Poor thing. Well at least it's not being completely discontinued, as I thought it would be given how it's nowhere to be seen in stores. Technical note - the G90 and G95 are not exactly the same. The G95 has an LCD screen whilst the G90 has a much better OLED screen. This was rectified with the G95D I think. Thanks for bringing up the fact that log is beneficial in 8bit as well though. However, what's the situation with powering thought USB? I don't mean power delivery, just powering (helping the battery). DP review says the port cannot be used for powering but the G90 can do it.

[@TheRealRichardWong]

oh yes the G90/95 has a different screen :) Re powering through USB. I believe you can do it. Unfortunately I've already returned the camera to Panasonic so can't confirm that for you.

[@Channel-xx8qt]

People need GX9 upgrade with jack micropone external.

[@voodoocowboy]

Still DFD? 😅

[@uhu4677]

Cameras without PDAF and 4K60fps are absolutely uninteresting in 2024. Also I'd prefer a camera with the GX8 formfactor. Make it small and light. Remove the mechanical shutter. Include proper multi exposure software for HDR. And please give us something better than JPG. Something with 10bit.

[@seanwu1968]

No PDAF definitely is a dealbreaker for me. Rather have PDAF instead of IBIS. I can use gimbal it I need.

[@vermis8344]

Hands up, everyone who wanted a G _X_ 97? 🖐

[@idolevi612]

WTF. This camera has a 7 years old sensor. Why didn't they just put the new 25mp sensor?

[@georgescanvas]

People complaining about this camera are sounding like spoilt little kids - No PDAF, no 10 bit video etc. .. Try pointing one of Panasonic's newer PDAF cameras against a backlit subject - you can clearly see the PDAF grid array all over the shadows on the sensor. I think Panasonic had it right the first time with DFD. Their engineers understood that phase detection impacts picture quality. But the market gets dragged along with the youtube influencers. Consumers are not as smart as they think they are.

[@DroneStories]

Stock clearance. The company is closing soon... Unfortunately, these moves lead me to these thoughts...

[@максимт-ф5щ]

so panasonic sell to us a product from 2019 in 2024. well done panasonic good job

[@robertluxamafreethinker]

That's what happens when a camera company wants to protect a big brother (like a Panasonic Lumix G9ii) at all costs. ☝🏽🤦🏽‍♂️😅 But the funniest part of that, is how the user end up having a subsequent release like the Panasonic Lumix G97-a déjà vu bad joke! 🤣 So, you have no choice to take the king of the crop sensor camera of all time: the 👑Fujifilm X-M5🥇🎖️🏆☝🏽😎

[@samtranchet]

still that 1,25x crop in 4K... too much on an already cropped MFT sensor. Even the G80 has less crop !

[@Andamanfishing]

Very minor update, expecting face detection auto focus, PDAF primary need for creator or youtubers, i think Sony zv e10 Mark ii is better than g97 at this price

[@adidabax6809]

Wow, your final comments are depressing. All I need is a g100ii w pdaf, a g97 w pdaf, or a gx10 w pdaf.