Panasonic GX8 Review

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If you are new to photography and looking for the perfect first camera to learn on and improve your skills, a great option is the Panasonic Lumix GX8. It has a beginner-friendly design, various automatic/semi-automatic shooting modes, and even 4K video capabilities. Moreover, its low price makes it ideal for newbies, kids, and people on a budget. 

In this Panasonic GX8 review, we’ll share a basic overview of the camera, its photo and video specs, which content creators will see the best results shooting with it, recommend our favorite Micro Four Thirds lenses, and more. Additionally, thanks to innovative online platforms like MPB, buying a used mirrorless camera has never been cheaper and easier than it is today. 

Who is MPB? They are a trustworthy and reliable online platform selling pre-owned photography and videography gear at unbeatable prices. Better yet, all their cameras and lenses are meticulously hand-inspected by expert product specialists with years of experience and backed by six-month warranties, allowing you to make your purchases confidently and worry-free.

Over the years, we’ve saved thousands of dollars buying, selling, and trading in camera equipment through MPB’s online marketplace, and we want the same for you. That’s why we are stoked to recommend them to you today. With that said, it’s time to jump in and learn everything there is to know about the Panasonic GX8!

Check out the video above by Grant Robert Davies to discover more about the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX8 and why it remains a great choice in 2023. 

Table of Contents

Panasonic GX8: Overview

Despite being a somewhat older camera (it was released in 2015), the Panasonic Lumix GX8 still packs a powerful punch, especially for beginner photographers. It combines a 20.3-megapixel Four Thirds sensor with a Venus Engine image processor, and the impressive results speak for themselves. 

Weighing only 487 grams, the camera body of the GX8 is much lighter and more compact than similarly priced DSLR cameras, making it a solid choice for travel and street photographers. At the same time, the body’s robust all-weather coating protects it from elements like rain, moisture, and dust. 

A few more easy-to-use features you will love are its customizable interface, fast DFD (Depth From Defocus) autofocus, and built-in Wi-Fi. The GX8’s customization options allow you to best match your shooting style. The DFD autofocus makes it easy to capture sharp, in-focus images. And thanks to the Wi-Fi, you can instantly send photos and videos to your mobile devices.  

Now, here’s an in-depth look at the key features and specs of the Panasonic GX8:  

  • Camera Type: Mirrorless
  • Sensor: 20.3MP Four Thirds CMOS Sensor
  • ISO: 200 - 25,600 (expandable to 100 - 25,600)
  • Lens Mount: Micro Four Thirds Lens Mount
  • Speed: 10.0 fps
  • Autofocus: 49 focus points
  • Video: 4K/30p & 1080p/60p
  • Size/Weight: 133 x 78 x 63 mm / 487 grams
  • Battery Life: 330 shots
  • Stabilization: Yes
  • Touchscreen: Yes
  • Pre-Owned Panasonic GX8 Price: $379 - $499

 

Panasonic GX8: Imaging Capabilities

 

While the 20.3MP image sensor of the Panasonic Lumix GX8 doesn’t jump off the page, it’s right in line with newer micro four thirds mirrorless cameras, which is saying something since the GX8 is now eight years old. Better yet, both JPEGs and RAW images have excellent detail retention and bold, vibrant colors.

In terms of still photography, this camera really shines in its ease of use. For example, there is a fully automatic shooting mode for people who are brand new to taking photos with a real camera. For those with a bit more experience, you can use the A (aperture priority) or S (shutter priority) modes to learn and improve your photography skills. 

And, of course, once you feel confident enough, there is also a fully manual mode where you are 100% in control of the exposure settings. Another cool feature rarely found on newer cameras is the exposure compensation dial. It gives you more freedom when shooting in poor lighting by allowing you to artificially adjust the brightness of your images.  

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Panasonic GX8: Video Capabilities

Now for a closer look at the video specs of the Panasonic Lumix GX8. For starters, it was one of the first Micro Four Thirds cameras capable of capturing 4K video, and the quality of its 4K footage holds up well today. YouTubers and vloggers will feel right at home recording 4K/30p clips, while filmmakers will prefer the look and feel of its 4K/24p video. 

The Dual IS stabilization of the GX8 is also a huge plus for video content creators. It combines the built-in image stabilization found in the camera with stabilized micro four thirds lenses to reduce camera shake and add up to five stops of exposure compensation.

Other notable video features include Full HD video, a microphone port, and the nifty “Snap Movie Mode.” Full HD video tops out at 1080p/60p. The microphone input lets you attach an external mic for better audio quality. And the Snap Movie Mode captures 2-8 second video clips perfect for social media. 

Recommended Lenses for the Panasonic GX8

Here’s a short list of some of the best Panasonic GX8 lenses for photo and video to pair with the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX8.

Final Thoughts on the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX8

As you can see, although the Panasonic Lumix GX8 isn’t the newest camera on the market, it’s still a highly capable camera perfect for beginners and photographers on a budget. In fact, we actually believe that its age is a positive! That’s because, while it used to cost $1,199 when initially released, you can now get your hands on one for $379 - $499. What an incredible value!

Undecided and want to compare the GX8 with other similarly priced cameras? Check out the list below of some more of the best mirrorless cameras under $500 currently in stock and on sale at MPB: 

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