The Panasonic Lumix GH3 is a Panasonic Micro Four Thirds camera released in 2012, built around a 16.05MP Live MOS sensor. Key features include weather sealing. This model has been discontinued. It replaces the Panasonic Lumix GH2. It has been succeeded by the Panasonic Lumix GH4. At 550g, this is 12g above the M43 average of 538g, noticeable but within the expected range for a body with this feature set. The Panasonic Lumix G97 is 31g lighter if that matters.
Best for: Everyday and casual photography
Pros
- Weather sealed body
Cons
- No in-body image stabilisation
- Contrast-detect AF only, slower on unpredictably moving subjects
- No 4K video
Video and hybrid work
The GH3 was a landmark video body in its day, with a weather-sealed magnesium build, high bitrate recording, and a fully articulating screen. It shoots 1080p rather than 4K, so it suits creators on a tight budget who do not need 4K, and the sealing and handling still hold up for run-and-gun work.
All-weather stills
The robust sealed body makes it a dependable stills camera for outdoor and travel use in poor conditions, unusual at its used price. The 16MP sensor is dated but capable, and the deep grip and controls suit photographers who want a substantial body rather than a compact one.
Specifications
| Body | |
| Brand | Panasonic |
| Status | discontinued |
| Released | 2012-12 |
| Weight | 550g |
| Dimensions | 132.9 × 98 × 82mm |
| Weather sealed | Yes |
| Screen | Fully articulated |
| Touchscreen | Yes |
| Sensor | |
| Description | 16.05MP Live MOS |
| Megapixels | 16.05MP |
| Resolution | 4608 × 3456 |
| Viewfinder | |
| EVF | Yes |
| EVF resolution | 1.74MP |
| EVF magnification | 0.67x |
| 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 | Yes |
| Mic port | Yes |
| WiFi | Yes |
| Bluetooth | No |
| Battery | DMW-BLK22 |
| Pricing | |
| Price (approx.) | N/A |
Frequently asked questions
Does the Panasonic Lumix GH3 have IBIS?
No. The Panasonic Lumix GH3 does not have in-body image stabilisation. You will need a lens with OIS for any stabilisation benefit.
Is the Panasonic Lumix GH3 weather sealed?
Yes. The Panasonic Lumix GH3 is weather sealed, which means it is protected against dust and splashing water.
Does the Panasonic Lumix GH3 shoot 4K video?
No. The Panasonic Lumix GH3 does not record 4K video.
Does the Panasonic Lumix GH3 have phase-detect autofocus?
No. The Panasonic Lumix GH3 uses contrast-detect autofocus. It is slower to lock on to moving subjects than phase-detect systems.
What card does the Panasonic Lumix GH3 use?
The Panasonic Lumix GH3 has 1 card slot and accepts SD UHS-I cards.
How much does the Panasonic Lumix GH3 weigh?
The Panasonic Lumix GH3 weighs 550g (body only, with battery and card).
Is the Panasonic Lumix GH3 still worth buying?
The Panasonic Lumix GH3 has been succeeded by the Panasonic Lumix GH4. The newer model improves on AF performance, sensor, and video specs. At a reduced second-hand price the Panasonic Lumix GH3 remains a capable body, but the Panasonic Lumix GH4 is the better long-term buy if the budget allows.