Panasonic Lumix GH5 vs GH6 – Which one is better?
Panasonic Lumix GH5 vs Panasonic Lumix GH6 — Which One Is Better?
The Panasonic Lumix GH5 and Panasonic Lumix GH6 are two flagship mirrorless cameras from Panasonic’s Micro Four Thirds lineup — built for professional filmmakers, hybrid creators, and photographers who demand reliability and top-tier performance.
While the GH5 set the standard for mirrorless video cameras, the GH6 takes things to an entirely new level, introducing higher resolution, improved dynamic range, faster performance, and even more robust video tools.
Here’s a detailed comparison to help you decide which camera is right for you.
⚙️ Overview — The Pioneer vs The Powerhouse
Panasonic Lumix GH5:
A legendary hybrid camera that revolutionized mirrorless video when it launched. Known for its excellent 4K recording, dual SD slots, and class-leading image stabilization, it’s still a solid professional tool today.
Panasonic Lumix GH6:
The next-generation evolution of the GH5. It brings a new 25.2 MP sensor, a faster processor, 5.7K video recording, improved autofocus, and advanced heat management — all packed into a familiar but refined body.
In short:
-
GH5 = Proven, reliable hybrid camera.
-
GH6 = Next-level performance for serious video professionals.
📸 Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Panasonic Lumix GH5 | Panasonic Lumix GH6 |
|---|---|---|
| Release Date | 2017 | 2022 |
| Sensor | 20.3 MP Micro Four Thirds CMOS | 25.2 MP Micro Four Thirds CMOS |
| Processor | Venus Engine | Next-Gen Venus Engine (faster & more efficient) |
| In-Body Stabilization (IBIS) | ✅ 5-Axis Dual I.S.2 (up to 5 stops) | ✅ 5-Axis Dual I.S.2 (up to 7.5 stops) |
| Autofocus System | Contrast AF with DFD (225 points) | Updated DFD AF with faster subject detection |
| Continuous Shooting | 12 fps (mechanical) | 14 fps (mechanical) / 75 fps (electronic) |
| Video Recording | 4K 60p 8-bit internal | 5.7K 60p / 4K 120p / 10-bit 4:2:2 internal |
| Recording Limit | No time limit (4K 30p) | Unlimited recording with active cooling |
| Audio Inputs | Mic & Headphone jacks | Mic & Headphone jacks + 24-bit audio support |
| Viewfinder | 3.68M-dot OLED EVF | 3.68M-dot OLED EVF |
| Screen | 3.2” 1.62M-dot Fully Articulating LCD | 3.0” 1.84M-dot Tilting + Free-Angle LCD |
| Storage | Dual SD card slots | CFexpress Type B + SD card slot |
| Battery Type | DMW-BLF19 | DMW-BLK22 (USB-C PD charging) |
| Weight (Body Only) | 725 g | 823 g |
| Price (Body Only) | ~$1,299 (check on Amazon) | ~$2,199 (check on Amazon) |
🧱 Build and Handling
Both cameras share Panasonic’s signature professional build — rugged, weather-sealed, and ergonomically excellent.
The GH5 offers a lighter setup, perfect for handheld use or gimbal work. Its deep grip and intuitive layout still hold up today.
The GH6, however, feels even more robust. It features a built-in cooling fan for unlimited recording, more tactile buttons, and a dual-tilting LCD that can rotate for both horizontal and vertical shooting.
👉 Verdict:
-
GH5: Lighter and perfectly balanced for mobile shooting.
-
GH6: Heavier but more professional and durable for long sessions.
🎯 Autofocus and Performance
The GH6 improves Panasonic’s Depth-from-Defocus (DFD) autofocus system with faster subject tracking, better face and eye detection, and smoother transitions in video. While still contrast-based, it’s much more reliable and accurate than the GH5’s version.
The GH5 is capable but can struggle with continuous autofocus in fast-moving scenes, particularly in video.
Performance-wise, the GH6 is a powerhouse — faster processing, instant response, and high-speed bursts up to 75 fps in electronic mode make it far more capable for action and hybrid workflows.
👉 Verdict:
-
GH6: Faster, more accurate autofocus and overall performance.
-
GH5: Still reliable for manual focus or slower-paced shooting.
🎥 Video Capabilities
This is where the GH6 truly separates itself.
Panasonic Lumix GH5
-
4K 60p 8-bit internal
-
10-bit 4:2:2 external via HDMI
-
No recording limit
-
Dual SD card slots
-
Excellent for professional video work
Panasonic Lumix GH6
-
5.7K 60p recording (10-bit 4:2:0)
-
4K 120p slow-motion recording
-
10-bit 4:2:2 internal at up to 60p
-
ProRes recording support (CFexpress)
-
Unlimited recording with built-in fan
-
Dynamic Range Boost mode for better highlights and shadows
The GH6 essentially turns into a mini cinema camera, supporting professional codecs, higher bitrates, and advanced heat management. It’s built for long shoots, commercial work, and cinematic production.
👉 Verdict:
-
GH6: One of the most capable video cameras in its class.
-
GH5: Still great for professional 4K work, but outclassed in modern formats.
🧠 Image Quality
The GH6 features a new 25.2 MP sensor that delivers sharper detail, improved color accuracy, and better dynamic range. Its processing engine allows for higher ISO performance and more flexible RAW files.
The GH5’s 20.3 MP sensor still produces excellent color and sharpness, but the GH6 gives more headroom for post-production work, especially for hybrid creators who demand top image quality in both photo and video.
👉 Verdict:
-
GH6: Better overall image quality and dynamic range.
-
GH5: Still impressive, especially for 4K delivery.
🔋 Battery, Storage, and Connectivity
The GH6 uses the newer DMW-BLK22 battery with USB-C PD charging — allowing continuous power while shooting. It also adds a CFexpress slot for higher bitrate recording and faster workflow.
The GH5 remains solid, with dual SD slots and great reliability, though it lacks the high-speed storage required for modern codecs.
Both offer full connectivity options, including microphone and headphone jacks, HDMI, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth, but the GH6 adds faster file transfer speeds and better remote shooting support.
👉 Verdict:
-
GH6: Modern power and faster data handling.
-
GH5: Still very reliable for most professional setups.
💰 Price and Value
| Model | Approx. Price | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| Lumix GH5 | ~$1,299 | Professional filmmakers and photographers on a budget |
| Lumix GH6 | ~$2,199 | Professional videographers, hybrid creators, and commercial users |
The GH5 remains one of the best deals in professional mirrorless video, offering incredible performance for the price.
The GH6 costs more but brings enough improvements — higher resolution, better video formats, unlimited recording, and more — to justify the upgrade for professionals.
👉 Verdict:
-
GH5: Best value for creators entering professional video.
-
GH6: Best investment for future-proof, high-end production.
Check availability and price on Amazon 🛒
📷 Lumix GH6 — Amazon USA / Amazon Canada / Amazon UK / Amazon Australia
📷 Lumix GH5 — 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.
🏁 Final Verdict — Panasonic Lumix GH5 vs GH6
| Type of User | Recommended Camera |
|---|---|
| Professional Videographer | GH6 |
| Filmmaker on a Budget | GH5 |
| Hybrid Creator (Photo + Video) | GH6 |
| Travel Videographer | GH5 |
| Studio / Commercial Shooter | GH6 |
| Documentary Filmmaker | GH6 |
| Beginner Filmmaker | GH5 |
| Action / Sports Shooter | GH6 |
| Live Event / Long-Form Recording | GH6 |
✅ In short:
Choose the Panasonic Lumix GH5 if you want a proven, professional camera that still delivers world-class 4K video performance at an affordable price.
Choose the Panasonic Lumix GH6 if you need cutting-edge video formats, higher resolution, unlimited recording, and a true cinema-level tool.
🧠 Final Thoughts
The Panasonic Lumix GH5 remains a workhorse for creators who want a powerful, stabilized camera capable of delivering professional-grade 4K results at a great price.
The Panasonic Lumix GH6, on the other hand, is a true evolution — offering higher resolution, better dynamic range, 10-bit 5.7K recording, and modern workflow options.
If you’re a content creator or filmmaker on a budget, the GH5 is still one of the best values on the market.
If you want the ultimate Micro Four Thirds camera for serious production, the GH6 is the clear winner.
