While we no longer rent this product, we do carry the Panasonic GX9. Additionally, you may find alternatives in the Recommended section on the left-hand side of this page.
20.3MP Live MOS sensor and Venus Engine processor
Fast, highly accurate autofocus
Four-axis in-camera image stabilization
4K video capture at 24p/30p
The Panasonic GX8 is an advanced enthusiast-level Micro 4/3 mirrorless camera. Key features include:
20.3MP Live MOS Sensor. The GX8 is the first Micro 4/3 camera to enter 20MP territory. While the relatively small increase in resolution isn’t going to move mountains, the updated Venus Engine processor does improve low-light performance, which now tops out at ISO 25,600. We’re not saying this is usable, mind you, just that the camera offers the option.
Image Stabilization. Like its predecessor, the GX8 features in-camera image stabilization. This updated four-axis version features the ability to work in tandem with in-lens stabilizers, which Panasonic refers to as Dual IS.
DFD Autofocus System. Short for Depth-from-Defocus, it’s a fancy way of saying the GX8 uses contrast-detection to acquire focus in conditions down to -4EV. There’s continuous subject-tracking focus for keeping up with moving subjects, and focus peaking to help manual focusing in both still and video shooting.
4K Video Capture. The video functionality is largely the same as the G7’s. The GX8 records 4K UHD (3840 × 2160) at 24p/30p in MP4 format with a 100 Mbps bit rate. It can capture Full HD 1080/60p in either MP4 or AVCHD formats. It captures audio with its built-in stereo mic or externally via its 2.5mm input (yes, it’s unfortunately 2.5mm). In addition to standard 4K video, the GX8 has a few 4K photo modes that enable 30 fps capture of 8MP JPEG stills for up to 30 minutes with full exposure control.
Other Notable Features. Just like the G7, there’s built-in Wi-Fi connectivity for wireless image transfer and remote camera operation using the free smartphone app. The camera records to SDHC/XC memory cards, while the included rechargeable battery is rated for roughly 330 shots per charge.