Panasonic LUMIX DC G97 Review | 108 Data compared

The Panasonic Lumix G97 review outlines a highly versatile, weather-sealed hybrid camera tailored primarily for beginner and intermediate creators seeking strong value. Key highlights include its high-performing 20.3-megapixel Micro Four Thirds sensor and a highly effective Dual Image Stabilisation system that compensates for camera shake across both the body and lens. The review praises its ergonomic design, noting it offers a comfortable, lightweight 530-gram body with a secure grip suitable for various hand sizes. For video, it stands out by providing unlimited 4K 30p recording along with a pre-installed V-Log L profile to achieve 12 stops of dynamic range for cinematic colour grading. Usability is further elevated by an upgraded, fully articulating 3-inch touchscreen boasting a sharp 1.84 million-dot resolution, plus modern additions like USB-C charging, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth. Despite these strong features, the review identifies critical limitations that make it less ideal for high-speed action. The main disadvantage is its reliance on a contrast-detection DFD autofocus system, completely lacking the faster phase-detection autofocus found in top-tier rivals. This means the camera may struggle to accurately track fast-moving subjects. Additionally,...

The Panasonic Lumix G97 is a 2025 entry-level mirrorless camera that updates the older G95/G90 platform with modern features like an upgraded 1.84-million-dot rear touchscreen, unlimited video recording, and a USB-C port for in-camera charging and power. Built around a 20.3MP Micro Four Thirds sensor with no low-pass filter, the camera punches above its weight by delivering exceptional image detail and sharpness that rivals higher-resolution APS-C competitors. It is designed with robust DSLR-style ergonomics, featuring a deep right-hand grip, a sharp 2.36-million-dot OLED electronic viewfinder, and an intuitive triple-dial control layout. Packaged with a highly versatile 12-60mm kit lens (a 24-120mm full-frame equivalent providing a 5x optical zoom), it functions as a highly capable and affordable tool for beginner photographers and casual creators. The camera's performance presents a distinct mix of significant advantages and notable limitations. On the positive side, it offers an exceptionally fast contrast-based DFD autofocus system for still images and a highly effective 5-stop 5-axis internal body image stabilization (IBIS) system that performs accurately in real-world conditions. However, it falls short for action photography, maxing out at...

The CameraRace review gives the Panasonic Lumix DC-G97 an overall iCamRank score of 58, highlighting it as a versatile, lightweight (530g), and weather-sealed camera, particularly suited for street photography. Key strengths include a high versatility score of 93/100, capable autofocus for tracking subjects, and integrated microphone inputs for video creators. Conversely, the review notes a relatively low 44 score for Image Quality, driven by its 20.3-megapixel Micro Four Thirds sensor, and a poor 69 score for handling/comfort. Further limitations include a restrictive 290-shot battery life and mediocre performance for specialized, high-end portrait or landscape photography. YouTube ·

Panasonic Lumix G97 Review Summary The Panasonic Lumix G97 is a robust and versatile Micro Four Thirds mirrorless camera featuring a 20.3MP sensor without a low-pass filter, delivering excellent image quality and faithful color reproduction. It is highly praised for its exceptional value, unlimited 4K video recording, and a powerful 5-axis dual stabilization system that ensures sharp images day or night. Built for outdoor adventures, the camera features a weather-sealed body, a responsive 49-zone contrast-detect autofocus, high-speed burst shooting up to 9 fps, and convenient USB-C charging. Despite its numerous strengths, the review notes a few key drawbacks regarding its ergonomics and sensor type. Some users find the camera's compact grip too small, which can negatively affect handling comfort during prolonged shooting sessions. Additionally, the Micro Four Thirds sensor size may not appeal to photographers who are strictly accustomed to full-frame formats. Overall, scoring 16/20 from the editorial team and 4.9/5 from users, it remains a highly recommended, lightweight option for amateur photographers and travel vloggers seeking high performance on a budget.