Panasonic G85 review: Brilliant 4k camera with powerful image stabilisation

Panasonic is known for its mirrorless technology and the impressive line-up of cameras they have launched after the technology co-operation deal with Leica. Be it the G7 or the pricier GH5, the Japanese technology giants have impressed with their launches so far.

The G85 takes the specifications of the massively successful Panasonic G7 and adds a 5 axis image stabilisation in a weather-resistant magnesium alloy body. The camera is power packed with a host of new features so let’s see if the G85 is up for challenges from some landmark DSLRs from Canon & Nikon as well as the mirrorless systems of Fuji and Sony, especially 0the Sony A6300.

Build around a 16MP Micro Four Thirds image sensor, the Panasonic G85 offers a brilliant electronic viewfinder based on OLED technology which is almost equivalent to the size of a 35 mm film camera. The high-res viewfinder is an added advantage as it helps to identify the subject in low-light conditions.

In terms of ergonomics, the mirrorless design is compact and a new shutter mechanism with electronic first curtain and a full silent mode adds up to the feel as you can really shoot images with zero shutter noise.

When it comes to the in-hand feel the camera feels rugged with a good grip but it might feel small if you are a DSLR user. Nevertheless, the button placements are superb and the availability of 10 customisable function (Fn) keys take the camera personification to a whole new level. Now you can assign any function to any of the available keys according to your choice.