Panasonic G9 offers pro-level features, 20 fps bursts, huge EVF and class-leading image stabilization

Panasonic's new Lumix DC-G9 is the company's first mirrorless camera aimed specifically at professional stills photographers. Geared for high-speed capture at up to 20fps, the G9 offers the same 20MP Four Thirds sensor as the video-centric GH5, but with tweaked image processing for better JPEG image quality. If 20 Megapixels isn't enough for you, the G9 is able to shift its sensor (more on that below) eight times to create an 80MP Raw image with ultra-high resolution.

The G9's image stabilization is as good as you'll find on any interchangeable lens cameras, capable of reducing shake by up to 6.5 stops. Panasonic claims that this system still offers that level of stabilization at wider focal lengths when using non-stabilized lenses, and maintains it at longer focal lengths with those with built-in IS, where it can use 'Dual I.S. 2.'

There's a refined 'Depth from Defocus' AF system on the G9, which offers 225 selectable points and improvements in both speed and subject tracking. The camera is capable of shooting bursts at 20 fps with continuous autofocus using its electronic shutter (9 fps with mechanical) and 60 fps with single AF (12 fps with mechanical). The buffer allows for up to 50 Raw images to be captured in a single burst.

The G9 has a sturdy metal body that's sealed against the elements and freezeproof to -10C/+14F. Direct controls include a lockable mode dial with a sub-dial for drive mode, an AF-point selection joystick and function switch for quickly swapping settings, similar to what's found on some Olympus cameras. The OLED electronic viewfinder is downright enormous, with a maximum magnification of 0.83x equivalent and a resolution of 3.68 million dots. A 3" fully articulating touchscreen LCD is also available. The camera has two SD memory card slots, both of which support UHS-II media. Ports include HDMI, microphone, headphone, flash sync, USB 3.0 (Micro B) and wired remote.

On the video front, the G9 can capture UHD 4K video at up to 60 fps, with a maximum bitrate of 150Mbps. It samples the full width of the sensor for all resolutions, which means no crop and higher quality. You can shoot slo-mo video at up to 60 fps in 4K and 180 fps at Full HD. The G9 can use its video capabilities to capture both 6K and 4K stills.

The G9 is powered by the same DMW-BLF19 battery as the GH5 with a CIPA rating of up to 400 shots per charge. A 'power save LVF' mode puts the camera into sleep mode when the EVF is not in use, and the camera turns on instantly when the shutter release is half-pressed. This mode improves battery life by roughly 2.3x. An optional battery grip holds an additional DMW-BLF19, bringing the CIPA number up to 800 shots. The G9 can be charged over USB.

Lastly, connectivity. While most cameras are still using 802.11b/g/n, the G9 uses the modern 802.11ac standard. Using the Panasonic Image App you can remotely control the camera, automatically transfer photos and copy settings from one G9 to another. Bluetooth 4.2 LE maintains a constant connection between the camera and smartphone and a basic app can be used as a remote shutter release.

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