Nikon Z9 vs Panasonic LUMIX DMC-G8M
Nikon Z9 Black 2021
Panasonic LUMIX DMC-G8M Black
What Buyers Say
Nikon Z9 Black 2021
The Nikon Z9 is widely praised as a flagship mirrorless camera that delivers outstanding image quality, blazing-fast autofocus, and robust build quality. Enthusiasts and professionals alike appreciate its continuous firmware updates, which have added valuable features and refined performance. While some users note its substantial weight and learning curve, the overwhelming consensus is that it is one of the best cameras available, offering exceptional versatility and reliability.
Pros
- Excellent autofocus speed and accuracy
- Superb image quality and color
- Robust build and weather sealing
- Long battery life
- Continuous firmware updates
Cons
- Heavy and bulky body
- Steep learning curve
- High price point
- Requires new Z-mount lenses for full benefit
Panasonic LUMIX DMC-G8M Black
The Panasonic G8 (also known as G80/G85) is praised for its excellent 5-axis image stabilization, quiet mechanical shutter, and reliable 4K video recording with HDMI pass-through. Users appreciate the robust build and fast autofocus, though some note the lack of an exposure compensation dial and limited custom mode slots compared to the GX8. The camera handles long recording sessions well without overheating, making it suitable for live streaming and event videography.
Pros
- Excellent 5-axis image stabilization
- Very quiet mechanical shutter
- Reliable 4K video with HDMI pass-through
- Fast and accurate autofocus
- Robust build quality
Cons
- No exposure compensation dial
- Limited custom mode slots (fewer than GX8)
- AF/AE lock button position less convenient
- Image quality similar to compact cameras
- Kit lens background blur is mediocre
Scores
Specifications
| Nikon Z9 | Panasonic LUMIX DMC-G8M | |
|---|---|---|
| Sensor | ||
| Type | Stacked CMOS | MOS |
| Size | full-frame | micro-four-thirds |
| Megapixels | 45.70000076293945 MP★ | 16 MP |
| ISO Range | 64★ | — |
| Processor | EXPEED 7 | Venus engine |
| Autofocus | ||
| AF Points | No data | |
| AF Type | Phase Detection: 493 | — |
| Eye AF | ✓★ | — |
| Animal AF | ✓★ | — |
| Subject Detection | ✓★ | — |
| Shooting | ||
| Burst (Mechanical) | 30 fps★ | — |
| Burst (Electronic) | 120 fps★ | — |
| Max Shutter | 1/32000 | — |
| Electronic Shutter | ✓★ | — |
| Video | ||
| Max Resolution | 8K★ | 4K |
| 4K FPS | 120 fps★ | — |
| 1080p FPS | 100 fps★ | — |
| 10-bit | ✓★ | — |
| Log Profile | ✓★ | — |
| RAW Video | ✓★ | — |
| Codec | ProRes 422 HQ, H.265 | — |
| Display & EVF | ||
| Screen Size | 3.2"★ | — |
| Touchscreen | ✓★ | — |
| Articulating | ✓★ | — |
| EVF Resolution | 3.7M dots★ | — |
| Build | ||
| Weather Sealed | ✓ | ✓ |
| Weight | 1.16 kg | 0.71 kg★ |
| Battery Life | 700 shots★ | — |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wi-Fi | ✓★ | — |
| Bluetooth | ✓★ | — |
| USB | USB-C★ | — |
| HDMI | HDMI Output | — |
| Hot Shoe | ✓★ | — |
Pros & Cons
Nikon Z9 Black 2021
- Strong build (99th percentile)99th %ile
- Strong video (99th percentile)99th %ile
- Strong user sentiment (98th percentile)98th %ile
- Strong battery (98th percentile)98th %ile
- Below average affordability (9th percentile)9th %ile
Panasonic LUMIX DMC-G8M Black
- Strong stabilization (89th percentile)89th %ile
- Strong build (86th percentile)86th %ile
- Strong social proof (68th percentile)
- Below average affordability (0th percentile)0th %ile
- Below average sensor (14th percentile)14th %ile
- Below average connectivity (17th percentile)17th %ile
- Below average display (30th percentile)
Verdict
Scores 98 overall, wins 10 of 10 usage categories and 24 of 33 specs.