Panasonic Announces Lumix GH5M2 and Lumix GH6, Ready to Reclaim The Hearts of Videographers
Four years after its launch, the Panasonic Lumix GH5 finally has a successor, the Lumix GH5M2. Like its predecessor, it still carries out a mission to become a favorite camera among videographers, and it is realized through several enhancements.
Most importantly, the Lumix GH5M2 can record video in 4K 10-bit 4:2:0 resolution at 60 fps internally. The Lumix GH5 needed to be connected to an external recorder device to record 10-bit 60 fps video in its first generation. V-Log format support, which previously had to be redeemed separately by Lumix GH5 consumers, can now be enjoyed directly on the Lumix GH5M2.
Furthermore, the Lumix GH5M2 also offers more effective image stabilizing system performance than its predecessor, with the ability to compensate for up to 6.5 stops (up from 5 stops). Its autofocus performance is also claimed to be more agile than the first generation. This change is possible thanks to an update applied to its image processor. The sensor used itself is the same, still Micro Four Thirds with a resolution of 20 megapixels, but now with an anti-reflective coating.
Another interesting update is wireless live streaming support. So with the help of a smartphone alone, the Lumix GH5M2 can record and broadcast video at a maximum resolution of 1080p 60 fps. Users also do not have to worry about their battery life. In addition to packing a battery with a larger capacity (2,200 mAh), the Lumix GH5M2 can also operate while plugged in a USB-C cable.
Finally, the Lumix GH5M2 features a slightly smaller touchscreen (3 inches compared to 3.2 inches) but with a higher resolution of 1.84 million dots, as well as a better brightness. The electronic viewfinder has also been updated to support a maximum refresh rate of 120 Hz.
Another interesting update is wireless live streaming support. So with the help of a smartphone alone, the Lumix GH5M2 can record and broadcast video at a maximum resolution of 1080p 60 fps. Users also do not have to worry about their battery life. In addition to packing a battery with a larger capacity (2,200 mAh), the Lumix GH5M2 can also operate while plugged in a USB-C cable.
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Finally, the Lumix GH5M2 features a slightly smaller touchscreen (3 inches compared to 3.2 inches) but with a higher resolution of 1.84 million dots, as well as a better brightness. The electronic viewfinder has also been updated to support a maximum refresh rate of 120 Hz.
Overall, the Panasonic Lumix GH5M2 doesn't offer too drastic a change compared to its first generation. Still, it also means Panasonic can sell it at a more affordable price than before, to be precisely $400( KES 43,000) cheaper. In the United States, the Panasonic Lumix GH5M2 will sell for $1,699(KES 182,642) (body only), or $2,299(KES 247,162) with a 12-60mm f/2.8-4 lens. Its marketing is scheduled to take place starting in July.
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Perhaps the question is, why did Panasonic have to wait this long to release a camera that was essentially just an evolution rather than a revolution? The answer is because they are also busy preparing another camera, the Lumix GH6.
Panasonic Lumix GH6
This camera will replace Lumix GH5 as the most flagship camera of the Lumix G. Panasonic has so far not disclosed the specifications nor revealed its full form because the Lumix GH6 is still in the development stage.
Even so, there are several important details that we can highlight so far. Primarily a combination of sensors and a new processor that allows the Lumix GH6 to record 5.7K 10-bit video at 60 fps, or 4K 10-bit 4:2:2 at 60 fps with no duration restrictions all. When needed, the Lumix GH6 is also ready to record 4K 120 fps video, complete with audio. As part of the Lumix G line, the Lumix GH6 certainly carries a Micro Four Thirds sensor, not a full-frame sensor like the Lumix S line.
According to Panasonic itself, the Lumix GH6 will be released to the public at the end of 2021 as well, with a price range of $2,500(KES 268 750). Panasonic is also preparing a premium lens to accompany this new flagship camera, the Leica DG 25-50mm f/1.7, which will be offered as an alternative to the Leica DG Vario-Summilux 10-25mm f/1.7 ASPH.
