Panasonic has updated its Micro Four Thirds stills/video hybrid flagship camera, to give the Lumix GH5 II. In many respects the new model is very similar to its predecessor, with the same dimensions and physical design. However a few controls have been reassigned, with an AF-ON button on the back in place of AF/AE Lock, along with a Photo Style button on top.
The Lumix GH5 II uses essentially the same body design as its predecessor
On the whole, the main photographic specifications are also unchanged. The camera employs a 20.3MP sensor that offers a sensitivity range of ISO 100-25,600, and is capable of shooting at 12 frames per second with focus fixed, or 9fps with autofocus between frames. Its central electronic viewfinder offers 3.68m-dot resolution and 0.72x (equivalent) magnification. The fully articulated touchscreen gets an update, though, with a higher 1.84m-dot resolution, increased brightness and a broader colour gamut compared to the GH5’s, but a slightly smaller size (3in vs 3.2in).
One control tweak sees an AF-ON button in place of AF/AE Lock
In typical Panasonic fashion, the major updates are to do with video, with the headline new feature being live streaming over Wi-Fi, either to a router or a smartphone via Panasonic’s free Lumix Sync app. Wired live streaming is supported using the Lumix Webcam software for PC and Mac. The camera can also record C4K 60p 4:2:0 10-bit footage internally whilst simultaneously outputting 4K 4:2:2 10-bit over HDMI. Pre-installed V-log L facilitates colour grading in post-production, backed up by V-log View Assist for natural colour display while recording.
A red II on the front distinguishes the new model from its predecessor
Some goodies are promised for stills shooters too. The sensor forgoes an optical low-pass filter for improved detail capture and features a new anti-reflective coating to reduce flare and ghosting. The GH5 II also gains the improved colour science that the firm debuted in the stills-focused G9. Meanwhile the Dual IS system has been uprated to provide 6.5 stops benefit.
The GH5 II will cost £1999 with the Leica DG 12-60mm f/2.8-4 zoom
The camera employs the same high-capacity DMW-BLK22 battery as the full-frame Lumix S5, which can be charged internally via USB-C PD, but it can also use the GH5’s DMW-BLF19E battery. It’s also compatible with all the same accessories, including the DMW-BGGH5 vertical grip, the DMW-SHGR1 tripod grip and the RMW-RS2 cable release. The Lumix GH5 II is due at the end of June for £1499 body only, £1699 with the Lumix 12-60mm f/3.5-5.6 lens, or £1999 with the Leica DG 12-60mm f/2.8-4.
