Which would you prefer: GX7 or GX85?

Lloyd B wrote:

If you have a GX7, will you let it go for the GX85? Which of the two would you prefer? Any advantages of the GX7 over GX85 and vise versa?

This is an interesting question to me because my GX80 (EU version of the GX85) arrived only this morning! I have used a GX7 mainly for photography but also as a "B-roll" video camera. I'm starting to use 4K more and more and wanted a relatively cheap camera to carry on this function while being capable of 4K. I was also attracted by the IBIS in video mode and better all round stabilization. I wanted to be able to try them both side by side before deciding whether to sell my GX7 or not.

First impressions are mostly very good I have to say:

• Much snappier operation than the GX7. Instant startup and no lag while reviewing shots or clips. Virtually instantaneous SAF focusing with a lens like the 12-35 f2.8.
• I thought I would miss the focus mode switch, but focus mode can be assigned to one of the function buttons, making it only slightly less convenient.
• Stabilizer works well in video mode.

Things I don't like as much:

• Grip is much smaller than on the GX7, though I will get used to it.
• Shutter button and surrounding front dial moved slightly, so it is level with the mode dial and not on the slightly higher top plate. Also the front dial seems slightly stiffer.
• No remote release socket. (Wi-fi app can be used instead.)
• Only one custom setting position on the mode dial. Others available via the touch screen.
• I might miss the tilt up EVF on the GX7. Against this, the fixed EVF projects abount 1/4 inch less from the body and I did find the tilting EVF sometimes would snag when taking out of a bag etc - a minor issue.

Overall though the two cameras are quite similar in look and feel. The much reduced grip on the GX80 along with the fixed EVF slim it down a little. I have yet to see whether removal of the anti-aliasing filter from the sensor makes a visible difference.

For me, I think the extra features and the faster operation mean I will keep the GX80. Undecided at the moment whether to sell the GX7 as it's a camera I like very much. I probably will let it go in time as I don't really need two similar cameras!