Review on 📷 Panasonic LUMIX GX9 4K Mirrorless Camera with 12-60mm Lens: DC-GX9MS (USA Silver) - Exquisite Image Quality in a Compact Frame by John Contreras

Background ---------------- I bought the GX9 as an upgrade from my GX85 which serves as my second (smaller) m43 case alongside the G9 . I use my smaller body when I'm traveling on business and want to carry a small camera, or going out in the evening and don't want to lug around the heavier G9, although the GX9 could very well be the "main camera" as well. .Overview-------------------------------Like the GX85 (and not quite like the GX8), the GX9 offers a fantastic combination from very compact dimensions. but very versatile. Additionally, the rangefinder form factor allows this camera to remain fairly small while maintaining a reasonable grip size. Before this camera I tried other cameras as secondary bodies (like the Olympus EPL7 as well as the EM10) and found them too small to hold comfortably, especially with slightly larger lenses. The EPL line also suffers from very cluttered administration. Despite its rather small size, the GX9 is surprisingly comfortable. The ergonomics are great, the dual (or triple) dial is comfortable to use and while I mostly use it with smaller lenses, attaching larger lenses (even 100-400) to it is surprisingly comfortable. ---------- Good in GX9 much more than bad. Some of the highlights I like about it are: * Size and form factor (see above) * Ergonomics and handling * User interface - Like all other Panasonic models, the GX9 has an extremely user-friendly user interface. It's fast (especially on the GX9), intuitive and very pleasing to the eye. In my opinion, Panasonic makes some of the most enjoyable cameras.* Focusing – The single focus on this camera is impressive. It's infinitely slower than my G9, but still faster than most other cameras. With the right lens, there is no lag when focusing. Continuous autofocus is decent, if not as impressive as my G9. But for this price and general photography, it's okay.* Image quality. This is the first camera on the market that isn't a top flagship model and uses the new 20MP sensor. It's a big step forward and offers fantastic image quality, just like my G9.* Image stabilization. While the GX9 isn't as premium as the G9, the GX9 offers 4 stops from IBIS, as well as Dual IS for better stabilization with Panasonic lenses. It works well and allows for long exposures.* Build quality - although it's not weatherproof (unfortunately) - it feels very secure in the hand.* Connectivity - This camera features Bluetooth Low Energy, so it's always connected to your phone. This enables real-time geotagging, which is VERY handy when traveling. It also simplifies Wi-Fi connection and image transfer.* USB charging. You can charge this camera with a standard micro USB cable (instead of having to remove the battery). That makes it ideal for travel. You can always charge it with an external battery and don't have to carry around extra chargers.* The feature set is just an incredible camera. While I don't record a lot of video, it has plenty of video capabilities, including 4K, as well as plenty of other photo capabilities. In fact, other cameras in this price range usually don't offer half the capabilities of this camera.* Flash - The built-in flash is quite handy and can be tilted up. It can also control other flashes as a master without the need for an additional device. Nice.* Tilt Screen - Great and fast. Perfect for street/street photography! Cons ----------- While this camera doesn't have too many cons, there are a few small things that could be improved: * Electronic viewfinder - The biggest disappointment with this camera was the lack of an electronic viewfinder. While that's not bad, it could have been better on its own. The 16:9 EVF format is a waste of space for a photography-oriented camera and results in a smaller than standard image. In addition, the eyecup is virtually non-existent, which makes shooting in high light conditions (e.g. direct sunlight) a bit difficult. Panasonic now offers an optional eyecup - I haven't had a chance to use it yet. this may indicate an improvement. Added tilt capability - Good, but doesn't really make a difference.* Battery life - Could be better. USB charging makes up for this to a certain extent, but it's still a fairly small battery. Luckily, you can pick up two additional (third-party) batteries and another charger from Revain for $20. aggravating. 12-60/3.5-5.6 lens is decent but not tiny. I bought my old GX85 with a 12-32 lens which I think suits this camera much better. I also already have a higher level PL12-60/2.8-4 so I don't need it but I was forced to buy it as well. I ended up selling both the GX85 and 12-60 so it worked, but I'd really like to see this camera without it. * The dedicated exposure compensation dial is a nice trick, but it ends up not being comfortable for two. Reasons: - It's harder to turn than the rear disc, so it's easier to mount the rear disc on the Exp-Comp and use that instead. - If you choose to use the special Exp-Comp disc, the rear disc will become unusable. It would be nice if you could assign it to ISO or whatever without the extra button press. Compared to the GX85---------- -------For those who compare it to the GX85 (whether it's an upgrade or just to save money), here are the main differences: * New 20MP sensor in the GX9. Slightly more detail and about 1 stop improved dynamic range (particularly in the highlights)* Dedicated AFS/AFC/MF lever, not found in the GX85* Newer Venus 9 image processing for better OOC JPEG files* Panasonic's latest menu system for identical ones G9 UI including My Menu option * Overall faster operation * Better bluetooth low energy connection (love it!) * Tilting viewfinder (is ok but not a huge benefit) * Dedicated exposure compensation wheel (very disappointing. Read above) ) Summary - ------------ The GX9 offers an incredibly compact and versatile body with excellent sensor and image quality, very good image stabilization and absolutely fine handling and ergonomics that are a pleasure to use. use. Its main downside is the electronic viewfinder, which while not bad, falls short of 2018 industry standards. However, this is the perfect smaller camera and we highly recommend it.