Canon EOS 80D vs Panasonic Lumix GH5 II: Which Camera Wins in 2024?

Choosing the right camera can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders often vying for attention are the Canon EOS 80D paired with the Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM lens and the Panasonic Lumix GH5 II. Both cameras boast impressive features and cater to different needs, making the decision even more challenging.
In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the strengths and weaknesses of each camera, exploring their key specifications, image quality, performance, and overall value. By the end, you’ll have a clearer understanding of which camera best suits your photographic aspirations.

Canon EOS 80D: A Reliable Workhorse for Enthusiasts

The Canon EOS 80D, released in 2016, is a versatile DSLR that has consistently been a popular choice among enthusiasts and professionals alike. Its combination of advanced features and user-friendliness makes it an excellent option for a wide range of photographic genres, from landscapes and portraits to wildlife and sports.

Key Features of the Canon EOS 80D:

• 24.2MP APS-C CMOS sensor: Delivers high-resolution images with excellent detail and dynamic range.
• 45-point all cross-type autofocus system: Provides fast and accurate autofocus, even in low light conditions.
• 7 fps continuous shooting: Captures fast-paced action with ease.
• Built-in Wi-Fi and NFC: Allows for easy wireless image transfer and remote control.
• Vari-angle touchscreen LCD: Offers flexibility for composing shots from different angles.

The Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM Lens: A Versatile Companion

The Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM lens is a popular choice for photographers looking for a versatile zoom lens. Its wide focal range covers a variety of shooting situations, from everyday snapshots to travel photography.

Key Features of the Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM Lens:

• 18-135mm focal length: Provides a wide range of perspectives, from wide-angle to telephoto.
• Image stabilization: Helps to reduce camera shake, resulting in sharper images.
• Ultrasonic motor (USM): Offers fast and quiet autofocus.
• Compact and lightweight design: Makes it easy to carry and use.

Panasonic Lumix GH5 II: A Powerful Mirrorless Camera for Video and Photography

The Panasonic Lumix GH5 II, released in 2020, is a mirrorless camera that has gained immense popularity for its hybrid capabilities. It excels in both video and photography, offering professional-level features in a compact and lightweight body.

Key Features of the Panasonic Lumix GH5 II:

• 20.3MP Micro Four Thirds sensor: Delivers excellent image quality with good dynamic range.
• 5-axis in-body image stabilization: Provides effective shake reduction for both photos and videos.
• 12 fps continuous shooting with mechanical shutter: Captures fast-paced action.
• 4K video recording at up to 60fps: Offers high-resolution video with impressive detail.
• 180-degree tilting touchscreen LCD: Provides flexibility for composing shots from different angles.

Image Quality: A Detailed Comparison

Both cameras excel in image quality, but their strengths lie in different areas. The Canon EOS 80D, with its APS-C sensor, produces images with excellent detail and dynamic range, especially in low light. However, the Panasonic Lumix GH5 II, despite having a smaller Micro Four Thirds sensor, boasts impressive image quality thanks to its advanced image processing and dynamic range.

Canon EOS 80D Image Quality:

• Excellent detail and sharpness: The 24.2MP sensor captures fine details with clarity.
• Good dynamic range: Allows for recovering highlights and shadows in challenging lighting conditions.
• Natural color reproduction: Produces pleasing and accurate colors.

Panasonic Lumix GH5 II Image Quality:

• Impressive detail and sharpness: The 20.3MP sensor delivers excellent detail, especially when paired with Panasonic’s high-quality lenses.
• Exceptional dynamic range: Offers excellent latitude for post-processing.
• Vibrant color reproduction: Produces rich and saturated colors.

Performance: A Head-to-Head Showdown

In terms of performance, both cameras offer impressive capabilities. The Canon EOS 80D’s 45-point all cross-type autofocus system provides fast and accurate autofocus, making it a strong contender for action photography and wildlife. The Panasonic Lumix GH5 II, on the other hand, boasts a blazing-fast autofocus system that utilizes depth-from-defocus technology, making it a top choice for capturing fast-moving subjects.

Canon EOS 80D Performance:

• Fast and accurate autofocus: The 45-point all cross-type system ensures quick and reliable focus acquisition.
• 7 fps continuous shooting: Captures fast-paced action with ease.
• Good low light performance: The sensor performs well in low light conditions.

Panasonic Lumix GH5 II Performance:

• Blazing-fast autofocus: The depth-from-defocus system delivers rapid and precise autofocus.
• 12 fps continuous shooting with mechanical shutter: Captures fast-paced action with impressive speed.
• Excellent low light performance: The sensor performs exceptionally well in low light conditions.

Video Capabilities: A Tale of Two Approaches

While both cameras offer video recording capabilities, their strengths lie in different areas. The Canon EOS 80D offers 1080p video recording at up to 60fps, with good image quality and a variety of recording options. However, the Panasonic Lumix GH5 II takes video to a whole new level, offering 4K video recording at up to 60fps, with impressive detail, dynamic range, and a wide range of video recording features.

Canon EOS 80D Video Capabilities:

• 1080p video recording at up to 60fps: Offers good image quality for standard video recording.
• Variety of recording options: Includes manual controls, time-lapse, and slow-motion recording.
• Good audio recording: Offers a stereo microphone for capturing high-quality sound.

Panasonic Lumix GH5 II Video Capabilities:

• 4K video recording at up to 60fps: Delivers high-resolution video with impressive detail and dynamic range.
• Professional-level video features: Includes log recording, anamorphic video recording, and 4K 60p internal recording.
• High-quality audio recording: Offers a 3.5mm microphone jack and a built-in stereo microphone for capturing professional-quality audio.

Design and Ergonomics: A Matter of Preference

The design and ergonomics of both cameras are tailored to different user preferences. The Canon EOS 80D offers a classic DSLR design with a deep grip and a plethora of buttons and dials, making it comfortable to hold and operate. The Panasonic Lumix GH5 II, on the other hand, boasts a compact and lightweight mirrorless design, with a smaller grip and fewer buttons, making it more portable and easy to use.

Canon EOS 80D Design and Ergonomics:

• Classic DSLR design: Features a deep grip and a variety of buttons and dials for easy access to controls.
• Durable build quality: Constructed with weather-sealed materials for protection against the elements.
• Comfortable to hold and operate: The deep grip and well-placed controls ensure a comfortable shooting experience.

Panasonic Lumix GH5 II Design and Ergonomics:

• Compact and lightweight mirrorless design: Offers portability and ease of use.
• Sleek and modern aesthetics: Features a stylish and contemporary design.
• Comfortable to hold: The smaller grip is well-suited for smaller hands.

Price and Value: A Balancing Act

The Canon EOS 80D and the Panasonic Lumix GH5 II are priced differently, reflecting their different features and capabilities. The Canon EOS 80D is generally more affordable, making it a good value for money, especially for photographers who prioritize image quality, performance, and user-friendliness. The Panasonic Lumix GH5 II, while more expensive, offers a more versatile set of features, particularly in video recording, making it a compelling option for hybrid shooters and those who prioritize professional-level video capabilities.

The Final Verdict: Choosing the Right Camera for You

Ultimately, the choice between the Canon EOS 80D and the Panasonic Lumix GH5 II depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide:

• Choose the Canon EOS 80D if:
• You prioritize image quality and performance.
• You prefer a classic DSLR design with a deep grip and a plethora of buttons and dials.
• You are looking for a camera with a good value for money.
• Choose the Panasonic Lumix GH5 II if:
• You need professional-level video recording capabilities.
• You prefer a compact and lightweight mirrorless design.
• You are willing to invest in a higher-priced camera with a wider range of features.

Beyond the Specs: A Look at the Bigger Picture

While the technical specifications provide a valuable starting point, it’s crucial to consider your personal shooting style, budget, and long-term goals. Explore the strengths and limitations of each camera, and consider how they align with your photographic vision.
Remember, the best camera is the one you use most often.

Frequently Discussed Topics

Q: Which camera is better for beginners?
A: The Canon EOS 80D is a more beginner-friendly camera due to its classic DSLR design and user-friendly interface. The Panasonic Lumix GH5 II, while powerful, may be more overwhelming for beginners due to its advanced features and mirrorless design.
Q: Which camera is better for video recording?
A: The Panasonic Lumix GH5 II is the clear winner for video recording, offering 4K video recording at up to 60fps, professional-level video features, and high-quality audio recording.
Q: Which camera is better for wildlife photography?
A: The Canon EOS 80D is a better choice for wildlife photography due to its fast and accurate autofocus system, which is essential for capturing fast-moving subjects.
Q: Which camera is better for travel photography?
A: Both cameras are good options for travel photography, but the Panasonic Lumix GH5 II’s compact and lightweight design makes it more portable and convenient for traveling.
Q: Which camera is better for low light photography?
A: Both cameras perform well in low light conditions, but the Panasonic Lumix GH5 II has a slight edge due to its advanced image processing and excellent low light performance.