The gx8 was kinda like a video centric version of the gx7/g80 but they kinda didn't commit to it, it was gimped in various ways that kept it from being a video monster. I'd love for panasonic to revisit this design but squeeze in all the video features of a GH camera into something akin to a GX8 body with maybe some inspiration from the sony FX3 (i.e. mounting points built in and handle that supported the XLR adapter)
@ThatMicro43Guy - sorry for the necrobump, but there is something that you can do about that display button. There's a putty-like glue called Sugru that moulds like blu-tak. if you buy a sachet of black Sugru, you can form a raised surround around the button so it doesn't get pressed accidentally. Just roll out a little tube, put it around around the button and squish it in place.
Great review. I have a GX8 that i really use any more. I primarily shoot with a G9 and OMD EM1 Mkiii. The GX takes great pictures and is a nice piece of kit when combined with the Panasonic 12-35 F2.8. That is how I used it most often. I always had it with that lens attached when shooting my G9 with the Leica 50-200. Made it easy to make a quick change if you needed to go wide with a shot. It is still a great option for m 4/3 who needs a second camera or a backup camera and does not want to spend a lot of money.
I'm always amused at the complaints about battery life, 300+ shots, really and necessatating the carrying of a couple of extra batteries, seriously! I can't help thinking back to me old Mamiay RZ67 and a bunch of preloaded roll film back, ten frames a pop and weighed in at a ton. Or our other system a Bronica ETRSi 645 giving sixteen frames per roll of film. By comparison today we are spoiled rotten, imagine having a three hundred frame roll film back on the Bronica never mind the Mamiya.
Great review, the GX-8 really is a fine camera, I use an EM-5ii and a Pen-F, also a Z6 and a D800......but the GX-8 is a joy to use, it just fits and works perfectly for me. Tilting EVF is a massive bonus. Keep up the good work.
Just swapped all my Sony gear and bought some micro four thirds gear but can't make mind up, GX8 or Olympus E1 Mark 2. I like the idea of the live composite modes on the Olympus and the pre shooting modes but have never owned any Olympus cameras...
Thanks to your confirmation in real time use. You've saved me a tone in finances and time. I'm U.S. based. I've been researching for the perfect set-up for all of my travel needs without compromising functionality and compatibility. This camera answered everything and more. I bough mine used at a fair price. What I received was beyond expectations. The camera has a mic output , hdmi, fully articulating screen, weather sealed, 20mgp, and pairs well with other Lumix cameras I own. I looked at Sony's Zve10 but stabilization and weather sealing were not addressed as this Lumix gx8 camera has. We can argue sensor apsc vs m4 but at the end of the day it is the person using the tool that makes all the difference. Thanks for your review. It's because of you and me researching I found my perfect camera that addresses my travel photo/video needs. To anyone looking for a solid travel camera leaning toward prograde needing a mic out, articulating screen, weather sealing I'd suggest this camera even over the gx85-16mgp and gx9-20mgp. Neither gx85 or gx9 holds the features of the gx8. Ps. Brian you want the black model which is the one I got used. The seller didn't have the silver and black model I wanted. Lol.. I'm on the hunt now for the one you have currently, lol
Love the channel Brian!! Good form for getting the silver body,, I bought one of each but only use the classic silver. I actually cornered a Panasonic rep once on the Mic/Remote combo jack,,, He told me that they had already committed to the 2.5mm jack being the remote standard and since they did not have room on the main board for 2 inputs.. they decided to combine the 2-- Originally he said there was going to be a supplied 3.5 to 2.5 adapter that would fit in a compartment on the body and then on the strap..but both ideas were discarded leaving the end user to get an adapter if needed...I got 3 adapters for $5.60 USD,, The GX8 was responsible for me coming to M4/3 from Sony NEX cameras. I was looking to get that Leica M experience I had in film cameras,,, and I couldn't take the Sony seriously with their lenses.
I have a gx80, which is a fabulous little camera, slightly newer I believe, sharing much in common with the gx8. However, the display button is located bottom right, so panasonic must have realised the error of their ways by the time it was released 😄
HELP!?! Is anybody else having a problem with the GX8 like I am? Since the last update Ver. 2.2 .. => in VIDEO mode, the IBIS does not work!! - If it's paired with a non-stabilized lens, there is no stabilisation. - If it's paired with a stabilized lens, the display shows "Lens Stab only" (not Dual Stab) - *But The Duel stabilization still works perfectly in Photo mode (so it's not a problem with my camera or lenses) Anyone have a fix or suggestions? Thanks!
That’s correct unfortunately. I found this in one of my earlier videos reviewing the 14mm f2.5. It “should” work properly with the v2 g-vario lenses with power OIS2. but not the mk1 lenses with power OIS 1 or the earlier MEGA OIS unfortunately. This was cured on the GX9 but not the GX8. On the earlier lenses switching the IS off disables both the lens and body IS too.
Thank you, Brian, for your excellent presentation of a camera I am using since 2016, the GX8. I am using a special thumb grip to not press the display button occasionally and a modified Olympus flash (fl-lm3) that needs no extra battery. I still have old batteries of my GH2 which I can use without any problems. They are 10 years old! The only difficulty that I found is, that there is no image stabilization on video mode (except the electronic one). So I bought the GX80 in addition with a 12-32 mm lens for video at a very low price. This camera came out later but has fewer features than the GX8 except the ibis for videos (and a 16MP sensor. It is not usable for video conferences because there is no flip-swing-out screen, my GX8 has!
It's amazing to me that these are still over $400 USD in the beginning of 2024 as the model approaches 9 years old. It's on my list, though, as a more compact companion to my G9
I have GX8 n G9 but take GX8 while travelling as my G9 is mostly used as back up for birding . Anyone have problem with shutter shock with GX8 ? Wud a Mk.2 lenses solve this problem ?
Traded in my fuji X100T to mpb for a GX8 recently! I decided that I should cash in on the high resale that the x100 series retained over the years. Ended up being X100T for a GX8 and they give me $11. I have a few lens from long ago when I had mft. Very exicited! Your video is very insightful!
@@sdrtcacgnrjrc I am enjoying it good bit. As I suspected I am really liking the return to interchangeable lens system as well as MFT. I do have some nitpicks with the GX8 design choices that I didnt think would bother me. I never use the vertical function on the view finder, I use it to move the auto sensor out of the way sometimes when its causing issues. I thought I would use this more. Only recently have I come to prefer the tilty screens over the fully articulating ones - so that too bothers me about the camera. I dont forsee myself exchanging this for a different camera body any time soon as it really checks off a lot of what I have come to look for in a camera....Unless Pana comes out with a GX9ii/GX10 (or a LX100III but thats not ILC, is fixed) that is water/dust sealed w/flippy screen...then I would probably jump at that.
Funnily enough today I went to the last camera store in my area to check out some used lens. When I got there - I decided to take a look at some newer MFT bodies that I didnt consider before...I walked out of the store less one GX8 but plus one EM5 MIII. Body style and build materials are a downgrade but everything else is so much better. It feels smaller in hand, seems to take up less space as well. I am liking it a lot. @@sdrtcacgnrjrc
I like my GX-9 with the 12-60mm lens. The ability to select a minimum shutter speed is an improvement over my GX-85. The tilt only screen is great! I do not like flip-swing-out screens. Oh yea, the new camera has 20MP where the GX-85 has 16MP. Both are good cameras. I do prefer the on-off switch on the GX-85 better, but overall, the GX-9 is simply better. - Loren
The only real downside for the GX9 is battery life which is REALLY on the lower end of the spectrum. I some times pick up the camera to take it out ad find it drained just for sitting on the shelf turned off. I have two batteries and an external charger, but still...
I love my GX8. I back button focus so hitting the display button isn't an issue for me since my finger is on the ridge above that button waiting to press for focus.
The GX8 is my main camera, GX7 is my backup and cycling camera (being slightly smaller, it goes on my handlebars more easily). I'm slowly selling everything else (except my GR), and have no desire to get anything else. Nobody's brought out a body since with size and features that I prefer.
I have a GX7. Absolutely love it. When the 20mm 1.7 is not attached it is my legacy machine. Have adapters for kmount, Nikon, Canon fd, OM, Minolta. It's a wonderful body to use with legacy lenses. Especially with all its manual focus aids. And regarding legacy glass.....It is fun and you'd be surprised by the results and some great old glass can be had for next to nothing.
I've got a GX9 last December. Been thinking about getting a GX8 because of the shutter button placement and weather sealing but the GX9 being newer I decided for it for that reason. GX9 is a little step down compared to the GX8 in term of ergonomy. The display button is at the same position but I've had no issue with it. At first I didn't like the GX9. Comparing it with my G9. It was a bit unfair. Decided not to resell it and give it a real chance. I am very glad I did that. I used it as a travel camera this summer and now I am loving it :)
I have a G9 and use it for everything, but I noticed it is a little big at times. I've found a 2nd hand GX8 and I think I will go for it, I'm bnge watching reviews on GX9vs GX8's now.
@@brianphuket5951 Yeah, same reason. I wanted an everyday camera. I am often going out with the GX9 during lunch break. Those range finder style cameras are perfect for this.
Thanks you James the only guys who praise the GX8. I buy mine use fourth years ago this camera as a unique gem in it. Mine was uses under heavy conditions pouring rain snow storm very cold temperatures and never let me down. And the quality of the pictures are very good. I hope that Panasonic will make a GX10 on the base of the GX8 but with today technology and keep the tilt EVF
I bought my gx8 used and in very great condition and my selection wheel that surrounds the shutter release button fell off just sitting on my desk. I was able to very carefully super glue it back on. I'm glad to know I want the only one this happened too
I'm waiting on my "like new minus" condition GX8 to arrive. I've been wanting one for a while, and a good one presented itself. It should pair well with my G85 and GX85. I love taking my GX85 out on walks, but the lack of weather sealing has concerned me. The higher resolution sensor will also be welcome. Thanks for your review... I hope I made a wise buy.
I bought a second hand (MBP) Black version last week. Boxed and with (for a 7 year old camera) an astonishing 2000 shutter count! I'm trying it with some old glass at the moment, and absolutely love the focus peaking and touch screen magnification feature with manual focus. Btw, love the scenery in Cumbria. Was brought up in Haltwhistle and it brings the beauty back to me (I live in Prague now, so no slouch in the beauty department, but home's best😉)
Haltwhistle, just up the road from here. There are a couple of my videos based there from my early days, a review of the 45mm 1.8 Olympus and also a shoot at the Lambley viaduct. Enjoy the GX8, I was shooting on mine this afternoon and enjoying it too.
Did you get a black one? I just purchased a GX8 from MPB, with a 14-42mm lens… it arrives tomorrow. Thanks for this video it helped to make my decision 👍
Unfortunately not, it ended as a choice between buying the black one……or a possible divorce lol I hope you enjoy yours as much as I enjoy mine. I was shooting with it just today.
Purely depends upon your needs, they are both terrific cameras. The gx9 is smaller than the gx8 . If you are doing video the gx8 has a mic input. Personally I like the gx8 for what I do but my advice would be to physically try both in the hand.
I had a GX8 for a little while. Excellent, excellent camera in most ways. Super well built, gorgeous EVF, but the ergonomics were very awkward for me. The exposure compensation dial was a reach, too hard to turn, and I use it a lot. The GX9 also has an exposure comp dial that’s way too hard to turn, so I’ve just disabled it and assigned it to the front dial, same as my GX85. Still waiting for the perfect camera. The G9 is very, very close. Have you checked eBay?
I initially bought a GF6 and although it worked very well I found I wanted an EVF so shortly afterwards bought a GX8 (in black) to avoid lense swapping I then found myself buying a second GX8 (again in black). With lockdown intervening I kind of lost my mojo with the cameras so it was just a few days ago that I got them out again. I was somewhat amazed to find that all of the Lumixes still had their clocks correct despite being stashed for so long with discharged batteries. A few observations, the image stabilisation absolutely amazes me, I could not believe how slow a shutter speed I could use with the camera hand held. I took a lot of landscape pictures, but there is definitely an advantage in having a small camera if you do point it at people, far less intimidating than a larger camera. Very few gripes about it, although twice I have had memory cards corrupted by taking a picture with the battery about to fail. The answer seems to be to remove the card and etract the pictures on the PC later and not heed the camera saying the card needs formatting. I suspect that this is partially fixable in firmware, ie to not let the camera power down while writing to a card. The camera has a nice weight to it, seems to be a good stable base. My favourite cameras of all time, just need to get out and about with them again. Hard to believe that they are as old as they are. My lenses and camera bodies all have the latest firmwares, but I do feel the makers have forgotten us now.
Agree with you-- and followed you into buying 2 GX-8s. I was using Sony but once I was shown stabilization, touch screen and most of all...LEICA lenses I was hooked. I did buy a silver body--my first,,used as a try out,,, and it's the one I use the most. I guess I want to keep the newer black one pristine... Good info on the card dilemma--thanks. and Yes,,, It does feel like they moved on from the rangefinder style bodies to concentrate on video hybrids,,,maybe ,,,just maybe with Fuji's success with that style and perhaps a new 26MP sensor--with hybrid auto focus we will get another shot with a GX.....10?? I would be first in line!!
@@clintjohnson5914 , I still love the GX8s. Sadly a key part of camera marketing seems to be the continual evolution of mounts, so not sure what future m43 has.
@@g0fvt That's true..... and from a guy who started back in the 70s and has worked camera stores on and off for 17 years.. that changing and switching I guess is a necessary part of the industry to keep the wheels of commerce churning. Everytime I watch a bunch of RU-vid videos and start to get stressed about not having the latest the shiny object I just lay out my lenses.. which I could not begin to afford the equivalents in a new brand.. and suddenly the stress all goes away.
Great review !!! Thank you so much ! I have one question, though : do you know if there is a way to film quality slow motion stuff with the DX8 ? There should be a way to film at an accelerate speed so as when projected at a normal speed it gives a very good slow-motion quality. But up to now, I found no way of doing it. I film at a normal speed and I have to "slow-motion" it with a software that just multiplies the existing images, with a very poor end result. Thank you so much in advance if you have an advice about that !
@@ThatMicro43Guy Ok, thanks for answering anyway ! 🙂 Just my own feelings about it : I'm also bothered by this stupid Disp button, every.single.time !! Grrrr, lol. And I had to fix a Zoom H1n as an external microphone to be able to get a decent sound when filming music videos (I play ukulele). Apart from that, I love this tough camera, and its great vintage reporter look ! 😊
Hi there, grateful for the review. I'm looking for one of these, primarily for wildlife, as I hear the MFT lenses can be good value if you shop around. Will it make a good wildlife camera in your opinion? ATB MMMD
I’ll be honest, no, I don’t think the AF is up to it for wildlife. I’d suggest a used Olympus E-M1 mkii with its phase detect AF over this for sports or wildlife using those same, excellent, MFT lenses
Hi Brian - again a great video even in the rain! I must admit I REALLY wanted to like the GX8 but I had loads of mediocre sharpness from it. Not sure if it is my technique or I got a dodgy one, or the dreaded shutter shock. I have a GX7 and I love that and eventually I traded the GX8 for a GX85 both give me better quality pictures. The GX8 has lots of features I miss on the GX7/85 (like weatherproofing and the 20MP sensor) but at the end of the day image quality matters most so I traded it in. I must admit I'm a huge fan of the GX7, for what it does it is really awesome! Most of the time I use my G9 but when I need something less conspicuous I use either GX7 or GX85. Keep up the good work on the videos!
Yes, it does tend toward the dreaded shutter shock. I believe it was very dependent upon which lens was used and which firmware update applied as there was a ‘work around’ rather than a proper ‘fix’. I have heard rumours (nothing more than that an no evidence to support it) that some had problems with the IBIS causing a similar effect. But I’ve never had problems at all with that or shutter shock. Maybe I was just lucky. My issue with soft photos is uploading them as parts of a video such as this to RU-vid. They are razor sharp here yet all look soft on the RU-vid videos.
I've had mine since December 2015. Always reliable. But I had the same issue with that knurled wheel, mine just disappeared one day. I enquired about repair but was told the whole top section of the camera would have to be replaced!
Hi Brian. I am looking at getting a backup camera to my G9. In your opinion which would be my best bet to get, thinking about performance and handling etc. I would value your opinion. Regards Ken R.
If you are happy with the G9 then consider a G80 or G90. The g90 is very much a cut down G9. Alternately a used Olympus Em1 mk 2 or 3 or an em5 mk3 all excellent
@@ThatMicro43GuyGuy Hi Brian thank you. In my pre G9 days I had the G80 and was going to get a New G90, but around that time all of a sudden, the G90 seemed to finish and so I bought a new G9. I have been looking at a GX8 or GX9. as a "B" camera back up to my G9. There are pros and Cons to both cameras. Now a contact has said today look at a G90 lol. I may well go to the G90. it's a mad mad world lol
Thanks for video, I got my GX8 used since 2018 and still have it and produced what I need this camera for (the black one, so handsome little camera LOL), only issue for me is the front dial ring just pop out and disappeared ! the local service said there're no replacement part for only dial ring I have to replace whole top cover which cost me a lot. so I end up with fixed it by DIY rubber furniture pad to match the ring section for now and plan for 3D Printing in future when I have time.
The mic jack will be TRRS and not the usual wiring configuration as used on TRS mics. The 2.5mm is as used on the FZ200 and does need a 3.5 TRRS to 2.5 TRRS adapter. Other Lumix use 3.5 TRRS (G7, GH4, G9). The TRRS is for the DMW-MS2 stereo/shotgun mic, three microphones. If you want to stick a Rode stereo mic into it you need a special TRS to TRRS adapter to swap the wires about, or you get mono. There are two flavours of adapter, I bought both but can never remember which is what other than the one fastened to the end of the Rode works. The FZ200 combines the mic jack with remote release, and these are 2.5mm. The 2.5 jack on the G7 is the remote release, its 3.5 is mic. The remote release on the G9 is weird with control for remote release and/or video start/stop - that caught me out with a remote toggle grip.
You only need the TRRS if your mic is powered from the camera. If the mic has its own batteries or is a dynamic mic then a 3.5-2.5 TRS-TRS works perfectly ok.
@@ThatMicro43Guy Not on all cameras. The Rode Stereo mic goes mono on the GH4. That mic has a 9V. The Rode Video mic is a mono interview mic and doesn't care.
Hey Brian, many thanks for the review. Atm i stuck between a used GX8 in excellent conditions and a new GX9. Don't know which one to buy...ergonomics seems better on the GX8 and i like the seal against poor weather. But don't know how much this depends... I got the hands on a GX9, ergonomics seems ok to me personally. Mostly used for street and landscape photography, a little for family kind of things... What would you get and why please?
I made this conscious decision when buying the GX8. Yes it is larger but the control layout was better for me as it has a thumb and forefinger wheel on the gx8, the gx8 plus I wanted to shoot some video so having a mic input rather than just the internal one was important plus it has a fully articulate screen rather than the tilt screen on the gx9
You more than likely have made a good decision. Only issue for me is I don’t believe it has an external mic input. But an excellent camera. Physically smaller than the GX8
Great cameras, I've recently bought the gx9 with the 12-32mm lens as my always on me camera. I wanted something smaller or I would have bought the gx8. At the moment there's 6 GX8s on MPB.
