Panasonic Lumix GM5 First Look – Latest micro CSC features improved design and specification additions
Last year’s Panasonic Lumix GM1 proved a hit with its combination of shooting power and diminutive dimensions, although it certainly wasn’t perfect. See our Panasonic Lumix GM1 sample images to take a closer look at the image quality.
The fixed LCD screen proved particularly troublesome in bright lighting conditions, while the rear control dial was certainly fiddly and presented issues when it comes to changing exposure settings.
The new Panasonic Lumix GM5 looks to address these issues with a new control layout and the addition of an electronic viewfinder. We got the chance to take a closer look at the new model ahead of launch to see if these modifications have the desired results.
First Look
In terms of additions to the camera’s spec list in comparison to its predecessor, the most welcome is certainly the EVF. It’s pleasingly high resolution, while delivering welcome readouts including exposure information and a live histogram.
It’s also well placed towards the upper left corner of the rear of the camera, a location akin to that on a rangefinder.
What this new viewfinder means in real terms is that the Lumix GM5 is very slightly larger than the GM1, and in this instance that’s not necessarily a bad thing.
This change in size has caused the controls on the camera to be spaced out, giving them room to breathe. The GM5 also sees the removal of the fiddly rear dial found on the GM1, replaced with a new thumbdial on the camera’s shoulder.
The thumbdial offers quick control over shutter speed, aperture and the like, and as a result it should deliver a much more pleasing shooting experience.
Although the GM5 retains the fixed touchscreen found on its predecessor, the addition of the EVF at least offers an alternative should you struggle with the framing of images in bright lighting conditions.
In terms of the feel of the camera, the GM5 picks up where the GM1 left off. It feels like a quality bit of kit in the hand and gives the impression of being built to last.
Final thoughts
The GM1 was a welcome addition to a crowded CSC market last year thanks to the combination of powerful performance and small size, and the GM5 looks set to build on this success.
The addition of a viewfinder helps the situation with regards to the LCD screen, while the reconfigured control set-up is also a plus.
On the whole we’re looking forward testing out and pitting it up against other micro CSC.
