Panasonic Lumix G97 vs Sony A6400 – Which One Is Better?

The Panasonic Lumix G97 and Sony A6400 are two popular mirrorless cameras designed for creators and photographers who shoot both photo and video.

They both deliver excellent performance, but they cater to different needs: the G97 focuses on portability and stabilization, while the A6400 is all about speed, autofocus, and hybrid power.

Let’s dive into a detailed comparison to see which one fits you best.

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⚙️ Overview – Stabilized Hybrid vs Autofocus Powerhouse

Panasonic Lumix G97:
A Micro Four Thirds hybrid camera built for creators who value in-body stabilization, compact size, and versatility. It’s lightweight, reliable, and perfect for travel, handheld shooting, or vlogging.

Sony A6400:
An APS-C mirrorless camera known for its class-leading autofocus, image quality, and strong video performance. It’s ideal for hybrid creators who want professional results without going full-frame.

In short:

• G97 = Compact, stabilized, creator-friendly.

• A6400 = Fast, high-quality, autofocus-driven.

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📸 Specifications Comparison

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🧱 Build and Handling

The Lumix G97 is designed for creators who want a compact, travel-friendly camera. Its deep grip, light body, and fully articulating screen make it easy to use for handheld video or vlogging. Built-in stabilization helps keep shots smooth without a gimbal.

The Sony A6400 is smaller but more robust. It has a magnesium alloy frame and a flip-up screen for self-recording. Although it lacks IBIS, it feels solid and is comfortable for both photography and video.

👉 Verdict:

• G97: Better for travel, handheld shooting, and stabilization.

• A6400: Better for compact build and durability.

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🎯 Autofocus and Performance

Autofocus is where the Sony A6400 shines. It features 425 phase-detect points with Real-Time Eye AF and Real-Time Tracking, giving it lightning-fast and accurate performance for moving subjects, portraits, and video.

The Panasonic G97 uses a contrast-based DFD (Depth-from-Defocus) system. It’s accurate for still photography and general use but not as fast or confident as Sony’s phase-detect system when tracking motion.

👉 Verdict:

• A6400: Industry-leading autofocus, ideal for action and hybrid creators.

• G97: Reliable AF for most use cases but slower for moving subjects.

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🎥 Video Capabilities

Both cameras offer strong video features, but their strengths differ.

Panasonic Lumix G97

• 4K 30p and Full HD 60p recording

• 5-axis in-body stabilization (Dual I.S.2)

• Fully articulating screen (ideal for vlogging)

• No recording time limit

• Excellent color science and skin tones

Sony A6400

• 4K 30p oversampled from 6K

• Full HD 120p slow motion

• S-Log2, S-Log3, and HLG profiles for color grading

• Real-Time Eye AF in video

• No recording time limit

👉 Verdict:

• G97: Best for handheld creators and stabilized shooting.

• A6400: Best for hybrid filmmakers and cinematic workflows.

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🧠 Image Quality

The Sony A6400’s larger APS-C sensor gives it the advantage in low-light performance and dynamic range. It captures more detail, produces cleaner images at higher ISO, and provides more depth of field control.

The Panasonic G97 still delivers excellent results from its 20.3 MP Micro Four Thirds sensor, especially in good light. Its smaller sensor makes lenses more compact and easier to carry — a big plus for travel photographers.

👉 Verdict:

• A6400: Better for low light, portraits, and overall flexibility.

• G97: Great color rendering and sharpness for everyday shooting.

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🔋 Battery and Connectivity

Both cameras support USB-C charging, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth. The A6400 has slightly better endurance (around 410 shots vs 350 on the G97) and excellent app integration. The G97 offers built-in stabilization and more versatile video controls.

👉 Verdict:

• A6400: Longer battery and better app control.

• G97: More creator-friendly stabilization and video setup.

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💰 Price and Value

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The G97 gives you more stabilization and portability for the money, while the A6400 gives you faster autofocus and higher image quality.

👉 Verdict:

• G97: Best for video-first creators and handheld shooting.

• A6400: Best for photo-first users and fast AF needs.

Check availability and price on Amazon 🛒

📷 Sony A6400 — Amazon USA / Amazon Canada / Amazon UK / Amazon Australia

📷 Lumix G97 — Amazon USA / Amazon Canada / Amazon UK / Amazon Australia

Note: camerafight.com participates in the Amazon Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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🏁 Final Verdict — Panasonic Lumix G97 vs Sony A6400

✅ In short:

Choose the Panasonic Lumix G97 if you want a compact, stabilized, easy-to-use hybrid camera for both photo and video.

Choose the Sony A6400 if you want faster autofocus, better low-light performance, and a more powerful all-round system.

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🧠 Final Thoughts

The Panasonic Lumix G97 is the perfect choice for creators who prioritize portability, in-body stabilization, and ease of use. It’s great for vlogging, travel, and handheld video work.

The Sony A6400, however, remains one of the best APS-C mirrorless cameras on the market, with faster autofocus, better image quality, and a strong lens ecosystem.

If you’re a video-first creator, go for the Lumix G97.

If you’re a hybrid or photo-first creator, the Sony A6400 is hard to beat.