New camera wanted - replacement for Lumix GX7

alcelc wrote:

brentbrent wrote:

alcelc wrote:

dinoSnake wrote:

The GX8 is the only camera you can still buy new that has the high speed shutter of the GX7. 1/8000 top shutter, 1/250 X-sync, plus best titling viewfinder, 20mp, best 4K video (unlimited length), and other details The compromises are somewhat larger body, no built-in flash, Dual I.S. (not "2"), can have shutter shock with certain lenses.

As GX8 does not use a floating 5-axis sensor, the Dual IS is on a more primitive side than the later DUAL IS of GX85/8, or DUAL IS 2 of G85/95, G9 & GH5. And the IBIS is not video supported IIRC.

Those who haven't actually owned a GX8 and instead rely on lists of specs may not have any idea just how good a camera it is.

GX8 had been on my upgrade list for a whole year after my wife took over GX7 from me and let me used GX1. A few times testing in showroom, not found GX8 bad but can't get over the size issue as a RF body.

It is a premium model, but in reality it is a fact that it has some shortage from newer models. If you are happy with it, totally fine.

However, I personally prefer a newer model whenever possible on the technology demanding product. I suppose you might not look for a iPhone 5 or 6 but will pick a newer model as long as your budget allows? When GX9 is not more expansive than GX8, or GX85 is under deep discount currently, I shall always suggest to get a newer model.

I am totally agreed with you that GX8 is still a powerful shooting machine. A reason that its latest gray market price is higher than G85 and GX9.

😁

I know!  Same here: the GX8 was on my, one camera, upgrade list.  But the price never budged, and then the G9 came out wth all the checklist boxes ticked.

Still, I'm (only lightly) toying with the idea of upgrading the GX7.  Still, the only reasonable option for me: GX8.  It's the only one that aspires to what the GX7 was in its day, no compromises just because it is a RF.  It may have a few flaws, but what doesn't, and overall it impresses when you actually pick it up rather than simply reading about it.