Choosing between the Panasonic GH3 and the Canon 70D can be a daunting task for photographers and videographers alike. Both cameras offer compelling features and have carved out significant niches in the market. If you’re weighing these two popular options, you’re likely looking for a versatile tool that excels in both still photography and video production.
The Panasonic GH3, known for its Micro Four Thirds system, appeals to those prioritizing compact size and excellent video capabilities. On the other hand, the Canon 70D, with its APS-C sensor and renowned Dual Pixel CMOS AF, is a favorite among DSLR enthusiasts for its autofocus performance and image quality.
This comparison aims to dissect the strengths and weaknesses of each, helping you make an informed decision. We’ll delve into their sensor performance, autofocus systems, video features, handling, and overall value proposition.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | panasonic gh3 | canon 70d |
|---|---|---|
| Sensor Size | Micro Four Thirds | APS-C |
| Megapixels | 16.05 MP | 20.2 MP |
| ISO Range | 200-25600 | 100-12800 (exp. 25600) |
| Video Resolution | 1080p up to 60fps | 1080p up to 30fps |
| Autofocus System | Contrast Detection | Dual Pixel CMOS AF |
| Continuous Shooting | 6 fps | 7 fps |
| Viewfinder | Electronic (EVF) | Optical (OVF) |
| LCD Screen | Articulating Touchscreen | Articulating Touchscreen |
| Weather Sealing | Yes | No |
| In-Body Image Stabilization | No | No |
| Built-in Wi-Fi | Yes | Yes |
| Weight (Body Only) | 425g | 755g |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Sensor Size & Resolution
- Panasonic Gh3: Features a 16-megapixel Micro Four Thirds sensor. This smaller sensor size leads to a more compact camera body and lenses, but can result in slightly less impressive low-light performance and shallower depth of field compared to larger sensors.
- Canon 70d: Equipped with a 20.2-megapixel APS-C sensor. The larger APS-C sensor generally offers better low-light capabilities, improved dynamic range, and the ability to achieve shallower depth of field more easily.
- Winner: canon 70d
Autofocus System
- Panasonic Gh3: Utilizes a contrast-detection autofocus system. While generally accurate, it can sometimes be slower and less decisive in very low light or with fast-moving subjects compared to phase-detection systems.
- Canon 70d: Boasts Canon’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF technology, a highly regarded phase-detection system. This provides exceptionally fast, smooth, and accurate autofocus, particularly for video recording and live view shooting.
- Winner: canon 70d
Video Capabilities
- Panasonic Gh3: Offers excellent video features for its time, including 1080p recording up to 60fps and a decent bitrate. It was a strong contender for videographers, offering manual control and good image quality.
- Canon 70d: Records 1080p video up to 30fps with the advantage of its Dual Pixel AF for smooth continuous focus. While not as high frame rate as the GH3, the autofocus tracking in video is a significant advantage.
- Winner: panasonic gh3
Build Quality & Ergonomics
- Panasonic Gh3: Features a robust, weather-sealed magnesium alloy body, offering a premium feel and durability. Its ergonomics are generally good, with a comfortable grip and well-placed controls.
- Canon 70d: Also sports a durable build with a magnesium alloy chassis, though it may not be as extensively weather-sealed as the GH3. It offers a good grip and intuitive button layout, making it user-friendly.
- Winner: panasonic gh3
Image Stabilization
- Panasonic Gh3: Relies on lens-based image stabilization (O.I.S.). This means the effectiveness of stabilization depends on the specific Panasonic lens attached.
- Canon 70d: Also relies on lens-based image stabilization (IS). Similar to the GH3, the performance of stabilization is dictated by the Canon lens used.
- Winner: Tie
LCD Screen
- Panasonic Gh3: Features a 3-inch OLED articulating touchscreen. The OLED technology provides excellent contrast and color, and the articulation allows for flexible shooting angles.
- Canon 70d: Comes with a 3-inch vari-angle touchscreen. The vari-angle design offers greater flexibility in positioning the screen for different shooting scenarios, and the touchscreen functionality is responsive.
- Winner: canon 70d
Continuous Shooting Speed
- Panasonic Gh3: Capable of shooting at up to 6 frames per second. This speed is adequate for many general photography needs but might be a limitation for capturing fast-paced action.
- Canon 70d: Offers a continuous shooting speed of 7 frames per second. This slight advantage makes it a bit more adept at capturing sequences of fast-moving subjects.
- Winner: canon 70d
Connectivity & Wi-Fi
- Panasonic Gh3: Includes built-in Wi-Fi for remote control and image sharing. This was a significant feature at its release, offering convenience for wireless operation.
- Canon 70d: Also features built-in Wi-Fi, allowing for remote control via a smartphone app and easy image transfer. Canon’s implementation is generally well-regarded for its ease of use and functionality.
- Winner: Tie
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Video Features | panasonic gh3 |
| Still Image Resolution | canon 70d |
| Autofocus (Video) | canon 70d |
| Durability & Weather Sealing | panasonic gh3 |
| Portability | panasonic gh3 |
| Viewfinder Type | Tie (Preference-based) |
| Continuous Shooting Speed | canon 70d |
What They Have in Common
- Articulating Touchscreen Lcd: Both cameras feature fully articulating LCD screens that can be flipped out and rotated, making it easier to shoot from high or low angles and for self-recording. The touch functionality on both allows for intuitive menu navigation and focus point selection.
- Built-in Wi-Fi: Connectivity is a shared strength, with both the Panasonic GH3 and Canon 70D offering built-in Wi-Fi capabilities. This allows for wireless image transfer to smartphones or tablets and remote camera control, enhancing shooting flexibility.
- Full Hd Video Recording: Both cameras are capable of recording high-definition video at 1080p resolution. This makes them suitable for amateur and semi-professional video production, offering good quality for various projects.
- Interchangeable Lenses: As DSLRs and mirrorless cameras, both the GH3 and 70D utilize interchangeable lens systems. This provides users with a vast array of photographic possibilities, allowing them to choose lenses that best suit their creative needs.
- Image Stabilization (lens-Based): While neither camera features in-body image stabilization, both rely on lens-based stabilization systems (like Panasonic’s O.I.S. or Canon’s IS) to help reduce camera shake and produce sharper images, especially in lower light or with telephoto lenses.
Panasonic GH3 Vs Canon 70D Buying Guide
Video Capabilities
The Panasonic GH3 stands out for its robust video features, offering higher bitrates and more advanced codec options like ALL-Intra, which is crucial for professional post-production workflows. Its focus on video from the ground up makes it a strong contender for filmmakers prioritizing image quality and flexibility in editing. While the Canon 70D also shoots excellent Full HD video, the GH3 generally provides a more refined and controllable video experience for serious videographers. (See Also: Nintendo Switch Vs Switch Lite )
Still Photography Performance
For still photographers, the Canon 70D often takes the lead due to its superior autofocus system, particularly its Dual Pixel CMOS AF, which excels in live view shooting and continuous autofocus during video recording. The 70D also boasts a slightly better dynamic range in some situations and a more traditional DSLR shooting experience. The GH3, while capable of great stills, is often seen as a hybrid camera leaning towards video, whereas the 70D offers a more balanced still photography experience.
Build Quality and Ergonomics
Both cameras offer solid build quality with magnesium alloy bodies, making them durable for various shooting conditions. The GH3 is often praised for its weather sealing and its more compact, rangefinder-style design, which some users prefer for its portability. The Canon 70D, with its articulating touchscreen and deeper grip, provides a more conventional DSLR feel that many find comfortable and intuitive, especially for extended shooting sessions.
Lens Ecosystem and Price Point
When considering the lens ecosystem, both Micro Four Thirds (GH3) and Canon EF-S (70D) mounts offer a vast array of options. Micro Four Thirds lenses are often smaller and more affordable, fitting the GH3’s compact philosophy. Canon’s EF-S mount provides access to a wide range of optically excellent lenses, though they can be pricier. The GH3 is an older model and can often be found at a more budget-friendly price point, making it an attractive option for those seeking value. (See Also: Pixel 6a Vs Iphone 12 )
Who Should Buy What?
Buy panasonic gh3 If…
- You prioritize video quality and frame rates, especially for smoother motion.
- You value a more compact and lightweight camera system, ideal for travel and handheld shooting.
- Weather sealing is a significant concern for your shooting environments.
- You prefer the electronic viewfinder experience and its ability to preview exposure.
Buy canon 70d If…
- You are looking for higher resolution stills and more detail in your photographs.
- You want the advantage of Canon’s renowned Dual Pixel CMOS AF for smooth and accurate video autofocus.
- You prefer the traditional optical viewfinder experience of a DSLR.
- You need a versatile all-around camera for both stills and video with a robust build.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which camera is better for beginners?
For beginners, the Canon 70D might be slightly more approachable due to its intuitive touchscreen interface and the familiar DSLR handling. Its Dual Pixel AF makes autofocus during live view and video shooting much simpler, reducing the learning curve for new users. The GH3, while excellent, has a menu system and controls that might feel a bit more complex for someone just starting out in photography or videography.
How do their autofocus systems compare?
The Canon 70D’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF is a significant advantage, offering fast and accurate autofocus in both stills and video, especially in live view. It excels at tracking subjects and provides smooth transitions. The Panasonic GH3’s autofocus is generally good for stills and video, but it doesn’t quite match the seamless and advanced capabilities of the 70D’s Dual Pixel system, particularly in challenging low-light conditions or for fast-moving subjects.
What are the key differences in video recording?
The Panasonic GH3 offers higher bitrate recording options, including ALL-Intra compression, which allows for greater flexibility and quality in post-production editing. It generally provides more advanced video controls and a slightly sharper image with more detail. The Canon 70D records excellent Full HD video with its impressive autofocus, but the GH3 is often considered the more dedicated video tool, offering a more professional-grade video output. (See Also: Galaxy Watch 6 Vs Active 2 )
Which camera has better image stabilization?
Neither the Panasonic GH3 nor the Canon 70D feature in-body image stabilization (IBIS). Image stabilization is typically provided by the lens itself (e.g., Panasonic’s O.I.S. or Canon’s IS lenses). Therefore, the effectiveness of stabilization depends entirely on the lens you choose to pair with either camera. Both systems can achieve good stabilization with compatible lenses.
Is the GH3 still a viable option today?
Yes, the Panasonic GH3 can still be a viable option, especially for budget-conscious videographers or those who appreciate its compact size and strong video features for its original price point. However, newer mirrorless cameras, including Panasonic’s own GH series, offer significant advancements in autofocus, image quality, and features. It remains a capable camera, but its age means it may not compete with the latest technology.
Final Verdict
The Panasonic GH3 excels in video recording with its higher bitrates and professional codec options, making it a filmmaker’s choice. The Canon 70D shines in still photography with its superior autofocus, especially its Dual Pixel CMOS AF for live view and video, and offers a more user-friendly DSLR experience for beginners. For those prioritizing video quality and advanced control, the GH3 has an edge, while the 70D is a more balanced hybrid shooter with a stronger stills AF system.
Winner: Canon 70D