Upgrading to a Lumix G9 in 2020?

MiniMadRyan wrote:

Hi All,

I shoot primarily with a Nikon D7200 w/battery grip and an assortment of lens from a 70-200 2.8 to the massive 200-500 f5.6. I love the handling and layout of the D7200. I also purchased a Lumix G7 last year on sale, and it's primarily used as my B-camera, and for when I'm looking to travel lighter.

Recently though, I've been intrigued by the Lumix G9 and the amount of features relative to its price. While it's a bigger body than the G7, it's still smaller than my Nikon and a bit lighter too.

My question is, in light of the recent news, and lower cost FF cameras supposed to be coming soon, is the G9 a good choice still in 2020? I'm not really interested in going to an entry level FF, as most of the features I'd like are in FF cameras 2-3 times the price of the G9, with only the D500 and Z6 being remotely close.

To me, it would seem the G9 offers a lot of higher-end features, without the huge costs, while still being a bit easier to carry around. What do others think?

Cheers

Ryan

It's a pretty incredible value, especially when you can get it new for under $1,000 (USD).  That said, "value" is relative, and it applies here only if the G9 suits your needs.  You probably know the answer to that based on using the G7 (to which the G9 would obviously be an upgrade).  It's a lot of camera, and it does many things very well.

Yes, it lacks PDAF, but for stills at least (I don't shoot video), it's not as bad as people would have you believe.  It's been pretty reliable in my experience, although AFC on fast-moving subjects can be hit or miss.

Beyond that, the only "limitations" relative to FF alternatives are DOF flexibility and low light performance.  Yes, the IBIS is fantastic, but just remember that relying on IBIS to lower your shutter speed only works on stationary subjects.

I have the G9 and a FF camera, and when I don't mind the extra lens weight, I'll grab the FF camera, because, well, why not?  If nothing else, it gives me more cropping flexibility.  But if I want to pack light, or if I need long telephoto range, it's the G9.  And frankly, the G9 could cover the vast majority of my photography.

It all comes down to your use cases.  If m43 can cover your needs, it's hard to argue against it.  And in the m43 universe, the G9 is a fantastic value right now.