Exclusive Review: Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM vs Panasonic Lumix DC GH5 – Which Wins the Battle?

Choosing the right camera can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Today, we’re comparing two popular contenders: the Canon EOS 700D paired with the Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens against the Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5. Both cameras offer compelling features and cater to different photographic styles. This in-depth analysis will help you understand their strengths and weaknesses, ultimately guiding you towards the perfect camera for your needs.

Unveiling the Canon EOS 700D and its Companion Lens

The Canon EOS 700D is a versatile DSLR camera that has been a favorite among enthusiasts for its user-friendly interface and image quality. It boasts an 18-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, capable of capturing vibrant and detailed images. Its continuous shooting speed of 4 frames per second allows you to capture fleeting moments with ease. The 700D also features a 9-point autofocus system, ensuring sharp focus on your subjects.
The Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens is a popular choice for everyday photography. Its versatile focal range covers a wide array of subjects, from landscapes to portraits. The lens incorporates image stabilization, which minimizes camera shake and delivers sharper images, especially in low light conditions. The STM technology ensures smooth and silent autofocus, making it ideal for shooting videos.

Introducing the Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5: A Mirrorless Marvel

The Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5 is a mirrorless camera that packs a punch. It boasts a 20.3-megapixel Micro Four Thirds sensor, renowned for its exceptional low-light performance and dynamic range. The GH5 can shoot at an impressive 12 frames per second, making it a formidable tool for capturing fast-paced action. Its 4K video recording capabilities at 60 frames per second are a game-changer for filmmakers and videographers.
The GH5’s compact form factor and lightweight design make it incredibly portable, allowing you to take it anywhere without feeling weighed down. Its electronic viewfinder (EVF) provides a clear and accurate view of your subject, even in bright sunlight.

Image Quality: A Detailed Comparison

Both cameras deliver excellent image quality, but their strengths lie in different areas. The Canon EOS 700D produces images with vibrant colors and good detail, especially in well-lit conditions. Its APS-C sensor offers a wider field of view compared to the Micro Four Thirds sensor of the GH5, making it a good choice for capturing landscapes and wide-angle shots.
The Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5 excels in low-light situations. Its Micro Four Thirds sensor captures more light, resulting in images with less noise and higher dynamic range. This allows you to shoot in darker environments without sacrificing image quality.

Autofocus Performance: Speed and Accuracy

The Canon EOS 700D’s 9-point autofocus system is reliable and provides accurate focus in most situations. Its continuous autofocus performance is adequate for capturing moving subjects, but it may struggle with fast-paced action.
The Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5 boasts a superior autofocus system with a wider coverage area and faster performance. Its advanced contrast-detection autofocus system is incredibly precise, ensuring sharp focus on your subjects even in challenging lighting conditions.

Video Capabilities: Filming in High Definition

The Canon EOS 700D can record 1080p video at 30 frames per second, offering decent video quality for casual use.
The Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5 is a video powerhouse. It can record 4K video at 60 frames per second, capturing smooth and detailed footage. Its internal recording capabilities are a boon for filmmakers and videographers, eliminating the need for external recorders. The GH5 also offers a wide range of video features, including slow-motion recording, time lapse, and anamorphic video.

Ergonomics and Design: Comfort and Control

The Canon EOS 700D features a comfortable grip and intuitive button layout, making it easy to navigate and operate. Its optical viewfinder provides a clear and bright view of your subject, allowing for precise framing.
The Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5 has a compact and lightweight design, making it incredibly portable. Its electronic viewfinder (EVF) provides a high-resolution view of your subject, and its touchscreen interface offers intuitive control over camera settings.

Price and Value: Finding the Best Deal

The Canon EOS 700D and the Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens are significantly cheaper than the Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5. This makes the 700D a more budget-friendly option for those seeking a capable DSLR camera.
The Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5 is a premium mirrorless camera with a higher price tag. However, its advanced features and exceptional video capabilities justify its cost for professional photographers and videographers.

Choosing the Right Camera: Your Needs and Preferences

Ultimately, the best camera for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:
Choose the Canon EOS 700D if:

• You’re looking for a budget-friendly DSLR camera with good image quality.
• You primarily shoot still images and don’t require advanced video features.
• You prefer a comfortable grip and intuitive button layout.

Choose the Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5 if:

• You’re willing to invest in a premium mirrorless camera with exceptional video capabilities.
• You prioritize low-light performance and dynamic range.
• You need a compact and lightweight camera for portability.

Final Thoughts: Embracing the Best Camera for You

Both the Canon EOS 700D and the Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5 are excellent cameras that offer a range of features and capabilities. The 700D is a budget-friendly option with good image quality, while the GH5 is a professional-grade mirrorless camera with advanced video features. By carefully considering your needs and preferences, you can choose the camera that best suits your photographic journey.

What People Want to Know

Q: Can I upgrade the Canon EOS 700D’s lens to improve image quality?
A: Yes, you can upgrade the lens on the Canon EOS 700D. Canon offers a wide range of lenses, from entry-level to professional-grade, allowing you to customize your setup based on your specific needs.
Q: What are the main differences between a DSLR and a mirrorless camera?
A: DSLRs use a mirror system to reflect light into the optical viewfinder, while mirrorless cameras use an electronic viewfinder (EVF). Mirrorless cameras are generally smaller and lighter than DSLRs, and they offer faster autofocus and better video capabilities.
Q: Is the Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5 suitable for beginners?
A: The Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5 is a powerful camera with advanced features, which may be overwhelming for beginners. However, it offers a user-friendly interface and a wealth of resources online to help you learn and master its capabilities.
Q: What are the best accessories for the Canon EOS 700D and the Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5?
A: Some popular accessories for these cameras include external flashes, tripods, remote shutters, and camera bags. You can also find a wide range of lenses and filters to enhance your photography experience.