Panasonic GX10 (rumoured, FT4)

SteveY80 wrote:

FunGuy66 wrote:

aliasfox wrote:

FunGuy66 wrote:

aliasfox wrote:

However, if they could figure out how to update the GM5 with the GX9 sensor and shutter without increasing the size much, I'd take the EVF and IBIS penalty... was definitely jealous of the wife's GM5 on this past trip. The GM5 + PL15 was a lot more compact than my E-M5ii + PL25.

Baseless but optimistic speculation:

- the arrival of a new high-end GX could also herald a refresh of the low-end GX850 (or whatever the latest in the series is), the current/recent offering closest to the GM cameras.

- it might now be possible to put IBIS in a body that small, if only 3-axis.

- as you suggested, any evf would have to be very small. But maybe the quality could be enhanced without drawing too much power or taking too much space? Those small evfs on cameras like the LX100 and ZS100 are minimally useful, but not only due to size. More resolution at the same size would be an improvement.

- what could make this really interesting would be e-shutter only. That would save some space and moving parts for other things. Admittedly I have no idea if a good enough e-shutter exists yet. Probably not, but surely it will exist in the not too distant future.

Funnily enough, my wife has a GX850 as well. I got it for her when the GM5 had to be repaired (rear dial failure) and wouldn't be back in time for our next trip at the time. These days, the 14-140ii is mounted on the GX850 (due to it's slightly thicker body), the PL15 is mounted on the repaired GM5.

I hate it.

Yes, internally, the GX850 is essentially a refreshed GM5 sans EVF. But the GX850 is a study in how not to do a plastic body - flexy, scratchy, and gross. The GM5's aluminum body and leatherette cover come across as a precision instrument, something with a high quality build (ironic, considering the dial failure). I can't immediately tell the difference between the E-M5ii and E-M5iii materials, but the GM5 vs GX850? Night and day.

Of course, our GM5 was purchased 2nd hand after they were discontinued, so it's not like Panasonic should listen to me for product advice.

I've never actually seen a GX850 in the wild (or even in a store) so I appreciate your comments on the build quality. I've toyed with the idea of getting one but always stop short, and I think you've put the idea out of my mind once and for all.

I went from a GM1 to a GX850 and apart from the increase in size I consider it a significant upgrade.

Yes, it's plastic, but personally I've never noticed any flex, and I have no issues with the build quality. In fact, to me it feels very similar to the GX9, especially when it comes to buttons, dials, and grip material.

I'd definitely suggest that you give it a try for yourself before dismissing it out of hand.

I had other things holding me back too... like minimalist physical controls and no mf on the 12-32 kit lens, among other things.

And while I know of a couple of places still selling them online, it's going to be a bit of a challenge to find a brick and mortar store that has one to play with.

Still, if there is a refresh I will take another close look at the 850 or its successor.