Panasonic Lumix GX9 review

A mirrorless camera with rangefinder styling

Reviews
By Phil Hall, Rod Lawton
last updated

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Verdict

In many ways, the Lumix GX9 takes two steps forward over the GX8, but one step (maybe half a step) back.

The removal of the optical low-pass filter means Lumix GX9 delivers excellent detail, with images looking that bit sharper than those from the GX8, while the smaller form factor compared to its predecessor hasn't seen the quality feel of the camera sacrificed.

That said, it's disappointing to find that the GX9's viewfinder and screen aren't quite a match for the older model, while it's also a shame that the weather sealing has been dropped.

Comparisons with the GX8 aside, the Lumix GX9 slots in nicely above the GX80/GX85 in the Lumix mirrorless range. It's similar in size, but offers a few more features and improved handling, thanks in part to the dedicated exposure compensation dial. While there's perhaps a little too much reliance on the touchscreen interface for some tastes (especially when selecting your desired AF area), the Lumix GX9 is a nice camera and a very solid performer – it just doesn't do quite enough to stand out from the crowd.

Competition

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Panasonic Lumix GX80/GX85

The more affordable sibling to the Lumix GX9, the GX80/GX85 features an older 16MP sensor, while it also lacks the GX9's tilting viewfinder and dedicated exposure compensation dial. That said, it's quite a bit cheaper if you're looking for a compact mirrorless camera that won't break the bank. 

Read our in-depth Panasonic Lumix GX80/GX85 review 

Phil Hall
Phil Hall

Phil Hall is an experienced writer and editor having worked on some of the largest photography magazines in the UK, and now edit the photography channel of TechRadar, the UK's biggest tech website and one of the largest in the world. He has also worked on numerous commercial projects, including working with manufacturers like Nikon and Fujifilm on bespoke printed and online camera guides, as well as writing technique blogs and copy for the John Lewis Technology guide.