Panasonic Lumix DMC-G85 Black 2020
D stabilizationual I.S. and a weather-sealed magnesium body set this camera apart, delivering sharp 16.8MP stills and stable 4K video in a 503g package. The included 12-60mm lens and fully articulating 3-inch touchscreen make it a versatile, all-in-one solution for run-and-gun shooting. This is best for vloggers and hybrid shooters who need a durable, lightweight setup for handheld 4K capture in unpredictable conditions.
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Snapshot
The 30-Second Version
The G85 is a stabilization monster with a bargain-bin price and an autofocus system that belongs in 2015. Buy it for video on a budget, skip it if you need to track anything that moves.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Best-in-class 5-axis stabilization for the price 99th
- Battery life that embarrasses most mirrorless cameras 93rd
- Great 4K video with Cinelike D profile for grading 90th
- Compact, weather-sealed, and genuinely ergonomic 89th
Cons
- Autofocus is unreliable in video and low light
- 16MP sensor is dated and crops hard
- No headphone jack for monitoring audio
- Kit lens is mediocre in low light
What owners think
The Word on the Street
How owner sentiment changed over time
ExclusiveBased on when customers actually wrote their reviews - so you can see whether early praise held up.
- Q2 2022100/100
Buyers praised the camera's compact size, weather protection, image stabilization, silent shooting, and sharp photos. One long-term user highlighted its reliability for videos and photos.
- Compact, lightweight, and weather-sealed design appreciated.
- Image stabilizer and silent shooting noted as key benefits.
- Sharp photos and good video quality, with long-term reliability.
- Q1 202287/100
Buyers in this period praised the camera's quality and ease of use, with one noting it was a great gift for a parent.
- Camera quality is excellent for the price.
- Ease of use is appreciated by buyers.
- Well-received as a gift, especially for older recipients.
- Q2 202195/100
Buyers praised the camera's powerful performance, lightweight design, and intuitive controls. They highlighted excellent autofocus, color, and 4K video capability without overheating, plus a versatile kit lens and good value.
- 4K video performance is strong; no overheating even after 8+ hours of recording.
- Camera is lightweight with intuitive controls and customizable settings, suitable for various users.
- Kit lens is versatile and good quality; bundle accessories exceeded expectations.
- Autofocus and color reproduction are fantastic, enhancing photo and video quality.
- Q4 202095/100
Buyers in this period praised the camera's photo and video quality, ease of use, flip screen, 4K, lightweight rugged body, and value for price.
- Excellent photo and video quality, with one user noting better quality than an older Nikon.
- Great value for the price, with one buyer saying it can't be beaten at that price.
- Features like flip screen, 4K, lightweight rugged body, and intuitive navigation are appreciated.
- Suitable for specific uses like podcasting, marketing shots, and gimbal mounting.
- Q3 202082/100
Buyers in Q3 2020 praised the camera's value and included accessories, but noted the bag is small and the microphone needs a battery.
- Great value for the price, with many accessories included.
- Camera bag is too small, barely fits camera with lens attached.
- Microphone requires a AAA battery, which was not expected.
- Camera quality and features are praised, though learning curve noted.
- Q2 202096/100
Buyers in this period praised the G85's image stabilization, 4K video, and user-friendly interface. They also highlighted great value and customer service, with some noting it's ideal for amateurs.
- In-body stabilization with kit lens is phenomenal, making gimbals unnecessary.
- 4K 60p video quality is amazing, great for video work.
- User-friendly menu, programmable buttons, and easy-to-learn layout.
- Excellent price, great deals, and positive customer service experiences.
- Q1 202087/100
Buyers praised the G85's camera quality, 4K video, and two-lens kit value. Some found it pricey or noted a learning curve, but overall satisfaction was high.
- Excellent camera and bundle value, especially with two-lens kit at a good price.
- 4K video quality ideal for YouTube and podcasting; photos good for snapshots.
- Easy setup and use, but some learning curve and manual lacks detail.
- One buyer felt it was too expensive for what it offers.
- Q4 201978/100
Buyers in Q4 2019 praised the G85's image and 4K video quality, value, and weather-sealing, but one reported a persistent autofocus issue that service couldn't fix.
- Excellent 4K video and image quality, with several users highlighting sharpness and outstanding video performance.
- Great value for money, especially with kit lenses and included accessories, making it a bargain compared to higher-end models.
- Weather-sealing proved reliable in rain and snow, with one user reporting it worked perfectly after exposure.
- One user reported a known autofocus issue causing random focus shifts during video, persisting after service, and warned others.
- Q3 201988/100
Buyers in this period praised the camera as an easy-to-use starter kit with great image quality, video, and stabilization. Autofocus was noted as a weakness, and some mentioned size concerns for larger hands.
- Great image quality and video, with impressive stabilization for the price.
- Easy to use and intuitive, with abundant online tutorials for beginners.
- Autofocus is a known weakness; buyers advise researching if relying on it.
- Compact size is loved by some but may require a grip for larger hands.
- Q2 201996/100
Buyers in Q2 2019 praised the G85's image quality, stabilization, weather sealing, and value. One noted it's better for filming than photography, but overall highly recommended.
- Image stabilization is excellent, enabling sharp photos even from a moving boat.
- Weather sealing proven in rain, adding confidence for outdoor use.
- Camera is lightweight and user-friendly, encouraging more frequent use.
- One reviewer notes it's very good but primarily for filming, not ideal for photography.
- Q1 201981/100
Buyers praise the G85's handling, image quality, IBIS, and video features, calling it a great value. One user notes PC connectivity limitations, and another finds autofocus borderline in 1080p.
- Handling and ergonomics praised, with better grip and controls than previous models.
- Image quality and kit lens sharpness highlighted, with color science compared favorably to Nikon.
- IBIS and video features (4K, clean HDMI, zebras) are strong points for videographers.
- PC connectivity for live view via wireless or cable is not supported, unlike some Canon models.
- Q4 201892/100
Buyers praised the G85 for excellent 4K video, stills quality, weather sealing, and lens compatibility. Kit lens and low light performance drew minor criticism, but overall satisfaction was high.
- 4K video quality and features like mic input and no overheating were highlighted as standout.
- Weather sealing and lighter weight than DSLRs were valued, especially for outdoor use.
- Stills quality surprised a professional photographer, matching or exceeding expectations.
- Kit lens was sharp but bulky and mediocre in low light; some found camera functions intimidating.
- Q3 201895/100
Buyers praised the G85 for its lightweight ergonomics, intuitive menus, and strong value. It was highlighted as ideal for real estate and video work, with quality images and a great kit lens.
- Lightweight and ergonomic design reduces fatigue, especially for all-day shoots.
- Intuitive menus and touchscreen make operation easy and customizable.
- Strong video capabilities and customization suit project workflows.
- Good value with quality images and a great kit lens.
- Q2 201892/100
Buyers in Q2 2018 praised the G85 as excellent value, with superb image stabilization, great kit lens, and strong video capabilities for entry-level filmmakers. One wished for internal 4:2:2 10-bit recording.
- Image stabilization is superb, enabling smooth handheld video and photos without a tripod.
- Excellent value: premium features at a good price, with a sharp, versatile kit lens.
- Great for entry-level filmmakers: sturdy, user-friendly, portable, and capable of professional video.
- One user wished for internal 4:2:2 10-bit 4K recording, a feature missing but not a major complaint.
- Q1 2018100/100
Buyers in Q1 2018 praised the camera's power, video-to-still capability, and pre-settings, with one noting it outperformed their DSLR. They also appreciated the kit lens and compatibility with other lenses.
- Camera outperforms DSLR, especially for travel and video-to-still conversion.
- Pre-settings are highly effective, used 90% of the time over manual.
- Kit lens is nice; works well with third-party lenses like SLR Magic.
- Easy learning curve for extracting stills from video, about 15 minutes.
- Q4 201795/100
Buyers praised the camera's viewfinder, ergonomics, and value, especially with the free lens. One wished for higher resolution, but overall satisfaction was high.
- Viewfinder size and eye relief are excellent, particularly for glasses wearers.
- Comfortable to hold and use for extended periods, with a solid, weather-sealed build.
- Great value, especially with the free 45-200mm lens, and capable of high-quality images and video.
- Resolution at 16.2MP is considered a bit low by some, but not a deal-breaker.
- Q3 201788/100
Buyers praised the G85's image stabilization, video quality, and value, but several noted frustrating autofocus issues, especially in low light, and advised buying extra batteries.
- Image stabilization is a standout, enabling handheld shots and video that previously required a tripod.
- 4K video quality is excellent, even surpassing professional TV production cameras in one user's experience.
- Autofocus can be frustrating, particularly in low light without the AF lamp, and may hunt or be slow.
- Battery life is a concern; users recommend buying extra batteries, though one found the power-saving setting extends it.
- Q2 201778/100
Buyers praised the G85 for video, IBIS, ergonomics, and value, with some noting color accuracy and manual mode limitations.
- Video capabilities, including 4K and 1080p, are excellent, with good stabilization and audio.
- IBIS works well with vintage lenses and telephoto, aiding both photos and video.
- Ergonomics, build quality, and intuitive menu are appreciated, especially compared to competitors.
- Color rendering is less accurate than Canon, and exposure compensation with Auto ISO in manual mode is missing.
- Q1 201778/100
Buyers praised the 4K video quality, low-light performance, and stabilization, though one noted a buzzing noise during video and another disliked high ISO jumps in normal lighting.
- Excellent 4K video and photo quality, especially in low light.
- Built-in stabilization is impressive, reducing need for a gimbal.
- Buzzing noise during video recording was reported by one buyer.
- ISO jumps high under normal lighting, but faster lenses help.
Based on 108 dated customer reviews, grouped by calendar quarter. Period analysis is in English.
The proof
Performance
The stabilization is the star here. Five stops of IBIS means you can handhold shots that would be blurry mush on other cameras, and pairing it with Panasonic's optically stabilized lenses gives you that Dual IS magic. Battery life is also absurd for a mirrorless, sitting in the 99th percentile of our database at 800 shots per charge. The 9fps mechanical burst is solid, but the 40fps electronic mode is mostly a party trick with rolling shutter. The real weak spot is autofocus. It's contrast-detect only, and in video or low light it hunts like a dog that lost its ball. For stills in good light, it's fine. For anything else, it's a known frustration.
Specifications
Full Specifications
Sensor
| Type | Live MOS |
| Size | micro-four-thirds |
| Megapixels | 16 MP |
| ISO Range | 200 |
| Processor | Venus Engine |
Autofocus
| AF Points | 49 |
| AF Type | Contrast Detection: 49 |
| Eye AF | No |
| Animal AF | No |
| Subject Detection | No |
Shooting
| Burst (Mechanical) | 9 |
| Burst (Electronic) | 40 |
| Max Shutter | 1/16000 |
| Electronic Shutter | Yes |
Video
| Max Resolution | 4K |
| 4K FPS | 30 |
| 1080p FPS | 60 |
| 10-bit | No |
| Log Profile | No |
| RAW Video | No |
| Codec | H.264 |
Display & EVF
| Screen Size | 3" |
| Touchscreen | Yes |
| Articulating | Yes |
| EVF Resolution | 2.36 M dots |
Build
| Weather Sealed | Yes |
| Weight | 0.5 kg / 1.0 lbs |
| Battery Life | 800 |
Connectivity
| Wi-Fi | Yes |
| Bluetooth | No |
| USB | Micro-USB (USB 2.0) |
| HDMI | Micro-HDMI |
| Hot Shoe | Yes |
vs Competition
The G85's natural rival is the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III, which shares the Micro Four Thirds mount but brings phase-detect autofocus and a higher-res sensor. If you're already invested in M43 glass and want better AF, the Olympus is the smarter buy, though it costs more. The Fujifilm X-S20 is the other one to watch. It's pricier but has a larger APS-C sensor, better autofocus, and Fuji's film simulations. The G85 wins on pure value and stabilization, but if you're shooting moving subjects or want better low-light performance, the Fuji or Sony a6600 are worth the extra cash.
| Spec | Panasonic Lumix DMC-G85 | Fujifilm X-H2 | Nikon Z Z9 | Sony Cinema Line FX30 | Canon EOS R6 Mark III | OM System OM-1 Mark II |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Type | mirrorless | mirrorless | mirrorless | cinema | mirrorless | mirrorless |
| Sensor | 16MP micro-four-thirds | 40.2MP aps-c | 45.7MP full-frame | 26MP aps-c | 32.5MP full-frame | 20.4MP micro-four-thirds |
| AF Points | 49 | 425 | 493 | 759 | 1053 | 1053 |
| Burst FPS | 9 | 15 | 30 | 120 | 40 | 120 |
| Video | 4K @30fps | 8K @60fps | 8K @120fps | 4K @120fps | 8K @120fps | 4K @60fps |
| IBIS | true | true | true | true | true | true |
| Weather Sealed | true | true | true | true | true | true |
| Weight (g) | 454 | 579 | 1160 | 646 | 608 | 511 |
| Compare | Compare | Compare | Compare | Compare |
| Product | AF | EVF | Build | Burst | Video | Sensor | Battery | Display | User Sentiment | Connectivity | Social Proof | Affordability | Stabilization |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Panasonic Lumix DMC-G85 | 5.3 | 83.3 | 92.9 | 83.4 | 62.8 | 13.6 | 98.9 | 87.5 | 74.2 | 88.6 | 89.6 | 53.6 | 89.1 |
| Fujifilm X-H2 Compare | 92.3 | 96.9 | 94.6 | 82.3 | 95.4 | 98.9 | 97.8 | 87.5 | 83.1 | 96.1 | 94.2 | 24 | 96 |
| Nikon Z Z9 Compare | 93.5 | 91.9 | 99.4 | 95.4 | 98.7 | 70.8 | 98.1 | 87.5 | 98.4 | 96.1 | 94.2 | 8.7 | 89.1 |
| Sony Cinema Line FX30 Compare | 93.8 | 87.7 | 73.1 | 99.6 | 92.2 | 95.4 | 96.7 | 87.5 | 83.1 | 96.1 | 99.7 | 17 | 89.1 |
| Canon EOS R6 Mark III Compare | 98.8 | 91.3 | 95.1 | 92.6 | 90.5 | 66.1 | 97.5 | 98.8 | 65.6 | 96.1 | 94.2 | 14.6 | 99.6 |
| OM System OM-1 Mark II Compare | 98.8 | 99.8 | 91.5 | 99.6 | 85.1 | 51.6 | 96 | 87.5 | 83.1 | 96.1 | 89.6 | 17.6 | 99.6 |
Price
Value & Pricing
Here's the thing: the G85 is all over the map on price right now. In the US, we're seeing listings from $400 to $848, which is a wild spread. If you can snag one near the $400 mark, especially a renewed body, it's an absolute steal. At $848, you're getting into territory where a used Fujifilm X-S20 or Sony a6600 starts looking tempting. The best deal we're seeing is on Amazon's renewed listings at the low end of that range. For CAD buyers, the spread is even crazier, from $551 to $2,586. Do not pay the high end of that. This is a $400-500 camera in 2024, not an $800 one.
Read more
Overview
The Panasonic LUMIX G85 is the camera you buy when you're done pretending you need full-frame and just want something that works. It's a 16MP Micro Four Thirds body with genuinely excellent 5-axis stabilization, solid 4K video, and a price tag that makes it one of the best value picks in mirrorless right now. The headline? This thing punches way above its weight for video shooters on a budget. But that 16MP sensor and the 49-point contrast-detect autofocus are showing their age in 2024, and if you're shooting fast action or low-light stills, you'll feel it.
Common Questions
Q: Is the G85 good for video?
Yes, if you're okay with manual focus or static shots. The 4K quality is great and the stabilization is excellent, but the autofocus will hunt in video. Use a fast prime and focus manually for best results.
Q: Is the 16MP sensor enough?
For most people, yes. You can print up to about 13x19 inches without issues. But if you crop heavily or shoot in low light often, you'll feel the limitation. It's the weakest part of this camera.
Q: Should I buy the kit lens or body only?
The kit lens is fine for daylight but mediocre in low light. If you can find a body-only deal and add a fast prime like a 25mm f/1.7, you'll be happier. But the kit bundle is often the best value if you're starting out.
Who Should Skip This
If you're shooting sports, wildlife, or anything with fast, unpredictable movement, this isn't your camera. The autofocus will frustrate you daily. Go get a Sony a6600 or a used Olympus E-M1 Mark III instead. If you need full-frame image quality for large prints or serious low-light work, skip this and look at a Nikon Z5.
Verdict
The G85 is a fantastic budget video and stills camera for people who know what they're getting into. If you're a beginner or a YouTuber on a tight budget, the stabilization and 4K quality will make you look better than you are, and that's the whole point. But if you need reliable autofocus for video or action, this isn't your camera. Buy it cheap, pair it with a fast prime, and you'll have a setup that punches way above its price. Just don't expect it to track a toddler running at you.
Usage Scores
- Overall71.7
- Video64.3
- Travel74.3
- Youtube61.3
- Beginner80.9
- Vlogging60.7
- Streaming62.5
- Photography49.3
- Wedding Events60
- Sports Wildlife54.5
- Product Photography55.4
