What To Know
- The 5D Mark II is a traditional DSLR with a large, comfortable grip and a weather-sealed magnesium alloy body.
- The GH4, on the other hand, is a mirrorless camera with a smaller, lighter body and a more compact design.
- Whether you’re a professional photographer, a videographer, or an enthusiast, both the Canon 5D Mark II and Lumix GH4 are worthy options that will help you capture stunning images and videos.
In the realm of digital photography and videography, two titans stand tall: the Canon 5D Mark II and the Lumix GH4. Both cameras have earned their place among the industry’s elite, but which one reigns supreme? Let’s delve into a detailed comparison to uncover their strengths, weaknesses, and the ultimate victor.
Image Quality
At the heart of any camera lies its image quality. The 5D Mark II boasts a full-frame 21.1MP CMOS sensor, while the GH4 features a Micro Four Thirds 16MP Live MOS sensor. Both cameras deliver exceptional stills with stunning detail, color accuracy, and low-light performance. However, the larger sensor of the 5D Mark II gives it an edge in dynamic range and shallow depth of field.
Video Capabilities
Video is where the GH4 truly shines. With its 4K (3840 x 2160) recording at up to 30fps, it outperforms the 5D Mark II, which is limited to Full HD (1920 x 1080) at 30fps. The GH4 also offers a wider range of video codecs, including AVCHD, MP4, and MOV, providing greater flexibility for post-production.
Autofocus
The 5D Mark II features a 9-point autofocus system with cross-type sensors, while the GH4 boasts a more advanced 49-point contrast-detect autofocus system. In good lighting conditions, both cameras perform admirably, but the GH4’s superior autofocus system gives it a slight edge in low-light situations and when tracking moving subjects.
Ergonomics and Handling
The 5D Mark II is a traditional DSLR with a large, comfortable grip and a weather-sealed magnesium alloy body. The GH4, on the other hand, is a mirrorless camera with a smaller, lighter body and a more compact design. While the 5D Mark II offers better ergonomics for extended shooting sessions, the GH4’s portability and versatility make it ideal for travel and street photography.
Connectivity and Features
Both the 5D Mark II and GH4 offer a range of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, NFC, and HDMI output. The GH4, however, has a built-in Wi-Fi transmitter, allowing for wireless control and image transfer without the need for external adapters. Additionally, the GH4 features a headphone jack for audio monitoring and a built-in stereo microphone.
Lenses and Ecosystem
The 5D Mark II has access to Canon’s extensive range of EF lenses, while the GH4 uses Micro Four Thirds lenses. Both systems offer a wide variety of options, but Canon’s EF mount has a longer history and a broader selection of professional-grade lenses.
Price and Value
The Canon 5D Mark II was released in 2008 and is currently available for around $1,500 used. The Lumix GH4 was released in 2014 and is available for around $1,000 used. While the 5D Mark II is older, it still offers excellent image quality and a robust build. The GH4, on the other hand, provides superior video capabilities and a more compact design.
The Verdict: Which Camera Is Right for You?
The Canon 5D Mark II and Lumix GH4 are both exceptional cameras with their own strengths and weaknesses. If image quality and the ability to use Canon’s EF lenses are your top priorities, the 5D Mark II is the better choice. However, if you need a camera with superior video capabilities, a compact design, and built-in Wi-Fi, the GH4 is the clear winner.
Ultimately, the best camera for you depends on your specific needs and preferences. Whether you’re a professional photographer, a videographer, or an enthusiast, both the Canon 5D Mark II and Lumix GH4 are worthy options that will help you capture stunning images and videos.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which camera has a higher resolution?
A: The Canon 5D Mark II has a 21.1MP sensor, while the Lumix GH4 has a 16MP sensor.
Q: Can both cameras shoot in RAW format?
A: Yes, both the 5D Mark II and GH4 support RAW image capture.
Q: Which camera has a longer battery life?
A: The GH4 has a longer battery life than the 5D Mark II, with a CIPA-rated battery life of 900 shots compared to 850 shots.
Q: Which camera is better for low-light photography?
A: The 5D Mark II has a slight edge in low-light performance due to its larger sensor.
Q: Can the GH4 record slow-motion video?
A: Yes, the GH4 can record slow-motion video at up to 120fps in 1080p and 60fps in 4K.
