Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF5 hands-on preview and sample images

[Four Thirds User editorial team]

Panasonic has launched the replacement for its 'baby' of the Micro Four Thirds G-Micro range, the DMC-G3, complete with new sensor, new Venus Engine 7+ HD image processor, LCD touch screen and redesigned user interface. But is the GF5 really that different. We've been using one and half some sample images for you to download.

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[Ian]

There has been a fairly muted response to the GF5, both here and on other sites.

I think the GF5 is a little gem, actually. Panasonic do say that the GF5 biased towards female users and as there is no EVF option it's clearly aimed at younger users who are a) very used to touch screens and who don't have age-related long sightedness that viewfinders are so helpful for.

The Panasonic Lumix X-lenses have also had a bit of bad press, but I wonder if the problems reported with these lenses are as widespread as we might think. Has anyone here had problems with an X-series lens?

Ian

[hschnee]

It does seem like a very nice update to the GF-3, especially the improved sensor, revamped user interface, and much better LCD. I'm curious, who was buying the GF-3? Is the decision to target the GF-5 to women a response to who bought the GF-3, or an attempt to attract a new demographic? I wonder if people who want a small, pocketable camera (women in used to smartphones, as suggested by your preview) will be recognize the advantages of a MFT camera, and be willing to pay the price premium over a compact.

- Hal -