The GF5 from 2012 was nearly identical in size to the GF3 at 222g, using the same 12.1MP Live MOS sensor in a fixed-touchscreen, viewfinderless body. No IBIS, no 4K, no Wi-Fi. It added minor processing improvements over the GF3 but was otherwise a very similar camera. There is no practical case for buying one today; it sits at the bottom of a very deep used-market pile. It replaces the Panasonic Lumix GF3. It has been succeeded by the Panasonic Lumix GF6. At 222g, this is one of the lightest M43 bodies available, 316g below the M43 average of 538g. Step up to the Panasonic Lumix G100D if you want more controls at the cost of 111g extra.
Best for: Everyday and casual photography
Cons
- No in-body image stabilisation
- Contrast-detect AF only, slower on unpredictably moving subjects
- Not weather sealed
Specifications
| Body | |
| Brand | Panasonic |
| Status | discontinued |
| Released | 2012-04 |
| Weight | 222g |
| Dimensions | 108.4 × 58.3 × 32.5mm |
| Weather sealed | No |
| Screen | Fixed |
| Touchscreen | Yes |
| Sensor | |
| Description | 12.1MP Live MOS |
| Megapixels | 12.1MP |
| Resolution | 4000 × 3000 |
| Viewfinder | |
| EVF | No |
| Stabilisation | |
| IBIS | No |
| Dual IS | No |
| Autofocus | |
| Phase detect | No |
| Subject recognition | No |
| Shooting | |
| Video | |
| 4K | No |
| 4K 60fps | No |
| Log | No |
| Ports & storage | |
| Card slots | 1 |
| Card type | SD UHS-I |
| HDMI | micro |
| Headphone jack | No |
| Mic port | No |
| WiFi | No |
| Bluetooth | No |
| Battery | DMW-BLG10 |
| Pricing | |
| Price (approx.) | N/A |
Frequently asked questions
Does the Panasonic Lumix GF5 have IBIS?
No. The Panasonic Lumix GF5 does not have in-body image stabilisation. You will need a lens with OIS for any stabilisation benefit.
Is the Panasonic Lumix GF5 weather sealed?
No. The Panasonic Lumix GF5 does not have weather sealing. Take care in rain or dusty conditions.
Does the Panasonic Lumix GF5 shoot 4K video?
No. The Panasonic Lumix GF5 does not record 4K video.
Does the Panasonic Lumix GF5 have phase-detect autofocus?
No. The Panasonic Lumix GF5 uses contrast-detect autofocus. It is slower to lock on to moving subjects than phase-detect systems.
What card does the Panasonic Lumix GF5 use?
The Panasonic Lumix GF5 has 1 card slot and accepts SD UHS-I cards.
How much does the Panasonic Lumix GF5 weigh?
The Panasonic Lumix GF5 weighs 222g (body only, with battery and card).
Is the Panasonic Lumix GF5 still worth buying?
The Panasonic Lumix GF5 has been succeeded by the Panasonic Lumix GF6. The newer model improves on AF performance, sensor, and video specs. At a reduced second-hand price the Panasonic Lumix GF5 remains a capable body, but the Panasonic Lumix GF6 is the better long-term buy if the budget allows.