Mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras have been the recent trend that has revolutionized the professional camera arena for quitter sometime now. Given the popularity that the genre has been enjoying, we thought of comparing two of the best mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras so that you will be able to make a well-informed decision as to which one to go with. Fujifilm X-H1 vs Panasonic DC GH5, they are the two different cameras that we will compare today.
Mirrorless Cameras- An Overview
Before we can move ahead comparing the two cameras – that have become popular enough in their own right – it would be essential to understanding the genre that they are available in. Maybe this will help us understand the concept a little better.
The mirrorless camera lets the light pass through the lens and onto the sensor. The lack of need for the mirror makes the camera a little smaller in construction and more straightforward to handle. In fact, that is precisely what would make a mirrorless camera more compact and portable. But yes, Autofocus is an area where DSLRs may have the upper hand, but the latest technology has added improvement in the Autofocus technology used in the mirrorless cameras as well.
Video quality is amply enhanced on the mirrorless camera. DSLRs cannot use the phase detection autofocus efficiently and thus need to rely on contrast detection focus. This results in slower focus options.
Table of Contents
Fujifilm X-H1 vs Panasonic DC GH5
Introduced one year apart, both Fujifilm X-H1 and Panasonic DC GH5 come under the same genre of mirrorless cameras. In fact, Fuji has been a name to reckon with in the field of still shots. With the introduction of Fujifilm X-H1, they have now forayed into the range of mirrorless cameras that offer an excellent functionality makes it ideal for sound video recording.
Physical Comparison
In terms of physical dimensions, both Panasonic DC GH5 and Fujifilm X-H1 are similar in almost all respects. However, you would find the GH5 a little heavier compared to the X-H1. Either of the cameras offers you the splash and dustproof features and thus should be best suited for any environment. In fact, that would make them suitable for all weather application.
As for the battery life, the Fujifilm X-H1 runs on the NP-W126S battery pack and can take up to 310 shots per charge. The Panasonic DC GH5 can provide up to 410 shots per charge on its DMW-BLF19 power pack.
Here is the comparison chart that would help you in getting a better picture-
Features | Panasonic DC GH5 | Fujifilm X-H1 |
Dimensions | 140 x 97 x 86 mm | 139 x 98 x 87 mm |
Weight | 673 grams | 725 grams |
Battery Backup | 310 shots per charge | 410 shots per charge |
Weather Sealing | Yes | Yes |
Sensors
Sensor specifications are indeed the key to the performance that you can expect from a camera. It influences the image quality considerably. A more substantial sensor will let more light through it and thus ensure better low light photography. Moreover, you stand to gain a better dynamic range with a large sensor. From a professional photographers’ view, a large sensor gives them creative freedom.
Our cameras under comparison have different sensor functionalities. The Fujifilm comes with an APS-C sensor, while the Panasonic GH5 offers you a Four-thirds sensor. The performance of the two cameras shows a little-marked difference. The fact that the X-H1 has a higher resolution should make it better equipped with substantially more individual pixel sizes as well. Moreover, the cameras are one year apart, and that should indeed give an edge to X-H1 as the sensor is equipped with the latest technological advancements in the field of pixel performance.
Here is another chart indicating sensor performance
Features | Panasonic DC GH5 | Fujifilm X-H1 |
Sensor Type | Four Thirds | APS-C |
Camera Resolution | 20.2 MP | 24 MP |
Resolution in pixels | 5184 x 3888 | 6000 x 4000 |
Video format supported | 4K at 60 fps | 4K at 30 fps |
Pixel Size | 3.34 micron | 3.93 micros |
From the comparison above, it can easily be seen that the GH5 is capable of a better video recording functionality in contrast to the X-H1.
What Are the Advantages of Fujifilm X-H1?
These are a few features that should prompt you for the Fujifilm X-H1 –
- The large sensor will ensure better low light sensitivity.
- You can capture better details with the higher resolution and 11 percent better performance.
- Bigger pixels to provide the better dynamic range
- The LCD on the top lets you review settings
- Better shutter speed at 1/32000
Why would you Prefer Panasonic DC GH5?
Though one year older compared to its competitor, the Panasonic DC GH5 has its advantages over the Fujifilm X-H1.
- Affordable compared to Fujifilm X-H1
- Better JPG and RAW buffer
- The articulated screen offers better control over what is happening.
- Longer battery life
- Slower slow-motion functionality.
A Detailed Comparison Chart
For a better and useful comparison, a comparison chart for all the features should serve as the best option to meet your needs.
Features | Panasonic DC GH5 | Fujifilm X-H1 |
Sensor Resolution | 20 MP | 24 MP |
Sensor Size | Four Thirds | APS-C |
Burst Speed | 9 fps (11 with S-AF) | 4 fps with e-shutter, eight fps mechanical (11 with grip) |
AF Joystick | 4 way | eight-way |
Image Processor | Venus Engine 10 | X Processor Pro |
Autofocus points | 225 | 325 |
ISO | 100-025600 | 100 – 51200 |
Image Stabilisation | 5-Axis Sensor Stabilization; Dual I.S. | 5-axis in-body stabilization of 5.5 stops |
Continuous shooting speed | 12 fps | 14 fps |
4K Video | 4K at 60 fps | 4K at 24 and 30 fps |
Touchscreen | Yes | Yes |
Screen articulation | Full articulation | Tilted |
Headphone Jack | Yes | No |
Slow Motion speed | 120 fps | 180 fps |
Video Battery Life | 55 minutes | 35 minutes |
Top Deck display | No | Yes |
WiFi and Bluetooth | Yes | Yes |
HDMI out | Yes | Yes |
The comparison table above puts the Fujifilm X-H1 as a better option in comparison to the Panasonic DC GH5. Unless you are opting for an affordable model and too keen on the slow motion and a few features as indicated in the chart above, the Fujifilm should be the clear winner.
Which One Should You Go With?
Well, if one considers and the options from an average customer point of view, the Panasonic GH5 should be the better option for your requirements. However, if you are a professional and looking for the real cinematic experiences in your shoots, we would vote for the Fujifilm X-H1 as a better alternative.
We would consider the Fujifilm X-H1 as the best option for a still or video camera with all features.