The Panasonic Lumix G90 (known as G95 in North America) is a versatile mirrorless camera designed for enthusiast photographers and videographers. With its 20MP sensor, 5-axis stabilization, and unlimited 4K recording capabilities, it’s well-equipped for both stills and video work. In this review, we’ll examine the G90/G95’s key features, performance, and how it compares to its competitors.
๐ Panasonic Lumix G90/G95 Key Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Sensor | 20MP Live MOS (Micro Four Thirds) |
| Stabilization | 5-axis sensor shift (up to 5 stops) |
| AF System | Contrast-detect DFD AF |
| Continuous Shooting | Up to 9fps (AF-S), 6fps (AF-C) |
| Video | 4K 30p/25p/24p (100Mbps) |
| LCD | 3-inch 1.04M-dot fully articulating touchscreen |
| Viewfinder | 2.36M-dot OLED EVF |
| Weather Sealing | Yes |
| Weight | Approx. 536g (with battery and SD card) |
๐จ Image Quality and Performance
Outstanding Still Image Quality
The Panasonic Lumix G90/G95’s 20MP Live MOS sensor delivers excellent image quality. It produces sharp, detailed images at low to medium ISO ranges, with impressive noise control. The JPEG engine is particularly noteworthy, producing high-quality in-camera processed images with pleasing color reproduction.
Effective Image Stabilization
The 5-axis sensor-shift stabilization system provides up to 5 stops of compensation. This enables sharp images at slower shutter speeds and is particularly beneficial when using telephoto lenses. The Dual IS 2 system, which combines in-body and lens stabilization, provides even more stable shooting capabilities.
Reliable Autofocus Performance
The DFD (Depth From Defocus) contrast-detect AF system provides quick and accurate focusing. While it performs exceptionally well with static subjects, tracking moving subjects isn’t quite as reliable as phase-detect systems found in competing models.
๐น Video Recording Features
4K Video Recording
The G90/G95 can shoot high-quality 4K video at 30p/25p/24p. It supports a high bitrate of 100Mbps, ensuring rich detail capture. The unlimited recording time is particularly valuable for long-form content creation.
V-Log L Profile Support
The camera comes with V-Log L profile as standard, catering to professional videographers. This enables greater dynamic range and color information capture, providing more flexibility in post-production.
4K Photo Mode
The 4K Photo mode, which allows extraction of 8MP stills from 30fps footage, is excellent for capturing decisive moments. Additional features like Post Focus and Focus Stacking enable creative shooting possibilities.
๐ก Usability and Design
Robust and Comfortable Grip
The Lumix G90/G95 features a weather-sealed magnesium alloy body that feels solid and durable. The generously sized grip provides stable handling, reducing fatigue during extended shooting sessions.
Intuitive Control System
The camera features efficiently placed top dials and rear controls for intuitive operation. Dedicated buttons for white balance, ISO, and exposure compensation enable quick setting adjustments.
Versatile Screen for Various Compositions
The fully articulating 3-inch touchscreen enables shooting from various angles. It’s particularly useful for vlogging and self-recording, with intuitive touch controls enhancing operational efficiency.
๐ Comparison with Competitors
Versus Sony A6400
The Sony A6400 offers a larger APS-C sensor and superior autofocus performance, particularly with its real-time Eye AF. However, the G90/G95 counters with built-in stabilization, a fully articulating screen, and a wider selection of native lenses.
Versus Fujifilm X-T30
The X-T30, also featuring an APS-C sensor, is renowned for its color reproduction. While it slightly edges out in 4K video quality, the G90/G95 offers advantages in unlimited recording, in-body stabilization, and weather sealing.
Versus Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III
The E-M5 Mark III, sharing the Micro Four Thirds system, offers a more compact form factor and superior weather sealing. The G90/G95, however, provides better battery life and V-Log L profile support.
๐ Pros and Cons Summary
Advantages
- Excellent image quality and video performance
- Effective 5-axis image stabilization
- Unlimited 4K video recording
- Fully articulating touchscreen
- Weather sealing
- V-Log L profile included
- Comfortable grip and handling
Disadvantages
- 1.26x crop in 4K recording
- Moving subject AF tracking lags behind competitors
- High ISO noise performance inferior to APS-C cameras
๐ฏ Recommended Users and Applications
The Panasonic Lumix G90/G95 is ideal for:
Vloggers and YouTubers: The fully articulating screen, unlimited 4K recording, and mic/headphone jacks make it perfect for content creators.
Travel Photographers: Its lightweight design, weather sealing, and extensive lens selection suit diverse travel shooting scenarios.
Photography Enthusiasts: Delivers solid performance in both photo and video, making it suitable for users who enjoy various types of shooting.
Intermediate Users: Offers a wide range of control options from automatic to manual settings, ideal for developing photography skills.
Outdoor Shooting Enthusiasts: Weather sealing and stable grip make it suitable for nature and outdoor sports photography.
๐ง Real-World Experience
Still Image Photography
In real-world testing, the G90/G95 delivers consistently satisfying results. Images are particularly impressive at low to medium ISO settings, showing excellent detail and clarity. The Dual IS 2 system proves highly effective, enabling sharp shots even in challenging lighting conditions.
Color reproduction is excellent, with particularly natural skin tones. RAW files offer good editing flexibility, allowing for substantial post-processing adjustments.
However, noise becomes notably visible above ISO 3200, a limitation of the Micro Four Thirds sensor compared to APS-C competitors.
Video Recording
4K video quality is impressive, delivering sharp, detailed footage. The V-Log L profile enables rich color grading possibilities and enhanced dynamic range. Unlimited recording capability proves invaluable in practical use.
The 1.26x crop in 4K mode requires consideration, particularly for wide-angle indoor or landscape shooting.
While the built-in microphone provides average quality, external microphone support and headphone monitoring capabilities enhance audio recording options significantly.
Autofocus Performance
Autofocus is quick and accurate with static subjects, and face/eye detection works reliably in most situations. However, tracking fast-moving subjects can be challenging, with occasional focus drops. This makes it less ideal for sports or wildlife photography compared to Sony or Canon’s latest mirrorless offerings.
Battery Life
The CIPA-rated 290-shot battery life is average. Real-world usage typically exceeds this figure, but carrying spare batteries is recommended for full-day shooting. USB charging capability adds convenience for on-the-go power needs.
๐ก Tips and Tricks
Utilize 4K Photo Mode: Perfect for capturing fast-moving subjects and ensuring you don’t miss crucial moments.
Custom Settings: Save frequently used settings to custom modes for quick access.
V-Log L Profile: Use this for professional video production requiring extensive color grading.
Touch AF: Leverage the touchscreen for quick focus point adjustment, especially useful in macro photography.
Maximize Dual IS 2: Use compatible lenses to take full advantage of the enhanced stabilization system.
๐ Conclusion
The Panasonic Lumix G90/G95 stands as a versatile mirrorless camera that excels in both photography and videography. Its combination of 20MP sensor, 5-axis stabilization, unlimited 4K recording, and V-Log L profile makes it an attractive option for enthusiast users.
It’s particularly well-suited for vloggers, travel photographers, and general photography enthusiasts who value portability and versatility. However, potential buyers should consider the 4K crop factor, high ISO noise performance, and tracking autofocus limitations compared to some competitors.
For those considering purchase, it’s worth comparing with the Sony A6400, Fujifilm X-T30, and other competitors based on your specific needs and priorities. The G90/G95 offers a well-rounded package that can handle various shooting situations effectively.
Finally, Panasonic’s commitment to firmware updates adds long-term value, potentially extending the camera’s capabilities over time. The G90/G95 represents a solid investment for those seeking a capable hybrid camera.
Visit the Panasonic Lumix G90/G95 Official Website
We hope this review has helped you understand the Panasonic Lumix G90/G95’s capabilities and whether it suits your needs. Remember that camera choice is highly personal, and if possible, trying the camera hands-on before purchase is always recommended.
