Panasonic Lumix DC-G97

Name: Panasonic Lumix DC-G97
Brand: Panasonic
SKU: 72831

Manufacturer: Panasonic

The Panasonic Lumix DC-G97 is a versatile mirrorless camera designed for both photography and videography. It features a 20.3 MP sensor and a 3″ touch screen, providing users with a flexible and intuitive interface for capturing high-quality images and videos. The camera's weather-sealed design ensures durability in challenging conditions, while the electronic viewfinder (EVF) offers 100% coverage for precise composition.

On the technical side, the Lumix DC-G97 supports 4K video recording at 30 fps and offers continuous autofocus for smooth movie captures. For stills, it features 49 focus points and sensor shift stabilization to reduce shake. The camera is equipped with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and a microphone input for enhanced connectivity and audio options. With a maximum ISO of 25600, it delivers impressive low-light performance, and the 9 fps mechanical continuous shooting rate ensures quick subject capture.

Pros

Weather-sealed design makes it suitable for use in challenging conditions.
Flip-out screen provides flexibility for shooting from various angles.
Continuous autofocus ensures smooth and reliable video recording.
Supports Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for easy wireless connectivity and remote control.
Has a removable and rechargeable battery, with a battery level indicator for convenience.

Cons

Does not have dual card slots, limiting storage options.
No built-in HDR mode, which could affect dynamic range in certain situations.
Does not support phase-detection autofocus for photos or videos, potentially slowing autofocus performance.
No GPS for location tagging or mapping features.
USB version 2 limits data transfer speeds compared to newer versions.

Who is this for?

The Panasonic Lumix DC-G97 is well-suited for enthusiasts and content creators who require a versatile mirrorless camera for both photography and videography. Its weather-sealed design makes it ideal for outdoor shooting in various environmental conditions, while the flip-out screen adds flexibility for vlogging or capturing creative angles. The inclusion of continuous autofocus during video recording ensures smooth footage, making it a great choice for users focused on dynamic video content.

Who is this NOT for?

This camera may not be suitable for professionals who require high-end features like dual card slots or phase-detection autofocus for fast and reliable photo capture. Additionally, the lack of a built-in HDR mode could limit its performance in high-contrast scenes, while the USB version 2 may cause slower data transfer speeds, which could be a drawback for fast-paced workflows or large file transfers.

Design:

Type	Mirrorless
viewfinder	Electronic viewfinder (EVF)
is weather-sealed (splashproof)	✓
screen resolution	1840k dots
Has a flip-out screen	✓
viewfinder coverage	100%
screen size	3"
weight	530 g
has a touch screen	✓
Has a hot shoe	✓
volume	943.69176 cm³
is a system camera	✓
has a flash	✓
lowest potential operating temperature	0 °C
maximum operating temperature	40 °C
Has a tilting viewfinder	✕
width	130.4 mm
height	93.5 mm
thickness	77.4 mm

The Panasonic Lumix DC-G97 features a mirrorless design with a 3″ touch screen and a flip-out screen for flexible shooting angles. It is equipped with a weather-sealed body, offering protection against the elements. The camera has a 100% coverage electronic viewfinder (EVF) and supports an external flash via its hot shoe. Weighing 530 g and with a volume of 943.7 cm³, it is compact and portable, making it ideal for photographers on the go. The camera also operates within a wide temperature range, from 0°C to 40°C.

Optics:

sensor size	Micro Four Thirds
lens mount	Micro Four Thirds
focus points	49
megapixels (main camera)	20.3 MP
maximum ISO	25600 ISO
maximum expanded ISO	25600 ISO
has sensor shift stabilization	✓
continuous shooting (mechanical)	9 fps
has AF tracking	✓
Has phase-detection autofocus for photos	✕
fastest shutter speed	0.00025 s
has manual focus	✓
has touch autofocus	✓
has manual shutter speed	✓
has a built-in HDR mode	✕
has a BSI sensor	✕
has manual exposure	✓
has a two-stage shutter	✓
has a serial shot mode	✓
has a CMOS sensor	✓
has manual ISO	✓
has manual white balance	✓
can create panoramas in-camera	✓
exposure time	60 s
Maximum electronic shutter speed	6.25E-5 s
has a stacked CMOS sensor	✕
image stabilization rating (CIPA)	5 stops
can combine image stabilization	✓

The Panasonic Lumix DC-G97 features a 20.3 MP Micro Four Thirds sensor and supports a lens mount of the same format. It offers 49 focus points and includes both manual focus and touch autofocus options. The camera also provides continuous shooting at 9 fps and boasts sensor shift stabilization for steady shots. With a maximum ISO of 25600 and the ability to combine image stabilization, it ensures good performance in various lighting conditions. Notably, it supports panorama shots in-camera, offering versatility for creative compositions.

Videography:

video recording (main camera)	2160 x 30 fps
Has phase-detection autofocus for videos	✕
has continuous autofocus when recording movies	✓
has a microphone input	✓
has a socket for a 3.5 mm audio jack	✓
has a stereo microphone	✓
Has timelapse function	✓
movie bitrate	100 Mbps
has a 24p cinema mode	✓
supports slow-motion video recording	✕

The Panasonic Lumix DC-G97 supports video recording at 2160 x 30 fps resolution and includes continuous autofocus for smooth video capture. It features a microphone input and a 3.5 mm audio jack for external audio options, along with a stereo microphone for enhanced sound quality. The camera also supports a timelapse function and a 24p cinema mode for cinematic video projects, while the movie bitrate is set to 100 Mbps for high-quality video output.

Battery:

Battery life (CIPA)	290 shots
has a removable battery	✓
has a rechargeable battery	✓
has a battery level indicator	✓
battery power	1200 mAh

The Panasonic Lumix DC-G97 is equipped with a removable rechargeable battery that offers a capacity of 1200 mAh. It provides a battery life of 290 shots according to the CIPA standard, making it suitable for extended shooting sessions. Additionally, the camera includes a battery level indicator to help monitor power status during use, ensuring you're aware of the remaining battery life.

Features:

release date	February 2025
processor	Venus Engine
supports Wi-Fi	✓
Has Bluetooth	✓
Has dual card slots	✕
has pixel shift shot	✕
shoots raw	✓
Wi-Fi version	Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n)
supports a remote smartphone	✓
has an HDMI output	✓
has GPS	✕
has first-party support for live streaming	✕
has an advanced hot shoe	✕
DxOMark Portrait score	8 bits
has NFC	✕
has an external memory slot	✓
Has USB Type-C	✓
Bluetooth version	5

The Panasonic Lumix DC-G97 is equipped with the Venus Engine processor, enabling efficient performance and high-quality imaging. It supports both Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n) and Bluetooth 5 for seamless wireless connectivity, and includes a USB Type-C port for fast data transfer. The camera also has an external memory slot for expanded storage, an HDMI output for video display, and supports remote smartphone control for convenient shooting from a distance.

Miscellaneous:

USB version	2

The Panasonic Lumix DC-G97 features USB version 2 for data transfer, providing standard connectivity for external devices. This version ensures compatibility with a wide range of accessories and is suitable for everyday use.

Final Verdict

The Panasonic Lumix DC-G97 is a solid choice for photography enthusiasts and content creators who value versatility and durability. With its weather-sealed design, flip-out screen, and continuous autofocus for video, it offers the essential features for both dynamic shooting and outdoor use. However, its lack of advanced features like dual card slots and phase-detection autofocus may limit its appeal to professional users. Overall, it's a reliable camera that excels in everyday use, offering strong performance for casual to intermediate users.

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