Panasonic has launched a new Compact System Camera, the Lumix DMC-GF5, which offers a world’s fastest autofocus system, a new image processing engine and 12MP sensor. Physically the camera closely resembles the Panasonic Lumix GF3, with the same lack of hotshoe and viewfinder socket.

Key Features

• New 12.1MP Live MOS Sensor

• New Venus VII HD2 Processing Engine

• Up To 12800 ISO Range

• Approx. 0.09 Seconds AF Speed – “World’s Fastest”

• Full HD Video Recording With AF

• 920k Dot 3inch LCD Touch Screen

• 14 Creative Filter effects

• New novice-friendly User Interface

The quoted autofocus speed of the Lumix DMC-GF5 is 0.09 seconds,
which Panasonic claim is currently the fastest available. This, combined
with the new Venus VII HD2 processing engine, present the most
significant updates from the GF3.

The processing engine
affords an extension in ISO range, up to 12800, making the GF5
theoretically capable of better low light performance. Where the 12MP
sensor may not carry the highest resolution Panasonic claim the image
quality will be extremely similar to that of the 16MP Lumix DMC-G3.

A
new graphical user interface is present, allowing users to be briefed
on the effects of certain filters and scene modes, as well as the best
environments to employ them in. The guide also extends to the manual
mode, explaining the benefits behind altering the likes of shutter
speed.

Sample images are littered throughout the screens, and a
number of animated elements make the whole process more pleasing for
the beginner. The 3inch, 920k dot LCD has touchscreen functionality as
well, meaning the likes of touch focus is possible.  

The
body is around the same size as the GF3’s shell, being less than a
millimeter shorter and a touch over 4mm deeper. A large portion of this
is the new grip, which has been added to improve handling and apes the
layout of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX1. As the GF3 isn’t exactly bulky,
this isn’t a negative by any means, and the GF5 can easily fit into a
pocket or small camera bag.      

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF5
will be available in May, priced at £449 for the standard kit lens
version and £549 for the version with the powered zoom lens. The camera
will be launched in white and black, more information can be found at
the Panasonic website. 

First Look Video