Panasonic's budget 4K MFT camera — first to bring 4K video at this price point with DFD contrast AF.
The Panasonic Lumix G7 was released in May 2015 as the first non-GH Panasonic MFT camera to record 4K video, bringing UHD 4K/30fps capability to a more compact and affordable body than the GH4. The 16.0MP MFT Live MOS sensor uses DFD (Depth From Defocus) contrast-detect AF — there is no on-sensor phase detection. No in-body image stabilisation is included. No weather sealing. At approximately 410g it was the most affordable 4K-capable MFT body at its launch.
The 16.0MP MFT Live MOS sensor pairs with the Venus Engine processor. The AF system uses DFD contrast-detection only — no phase-detection. Burst shooting runs at 8fps with AFS. UHD 4K records at 24/25/30fps — no DCI 4K (the GH4 was required for DCI 4K). No in-body image stabilisation. Battery life approximately 350 shots using the DMW-BLC12, body weight approximately 410g with battery and card, single SD/SDHC/SDXC slot.
The G7's UHD 4K at a mid-range price defined its market position in 2015: the GH4 provided DCI and UHD 4K in a weather-sealed body at higher cost, while the G7 delivered UHD 4K for everyday video use without the premium. The DFD contrast-detect AF is adequate for casual stills and moderate-movement video tracking. Without IBIS, handheld video requires lens OIS for stabilisation — compatible Panasonic lenses with O.I.S. cover this. The G7's 4K Video Photo feature allows extraction of 8MP stills from 4K footage.
On the used market the G7 is very affordable as an entry 4K MFT camera. The GH5 (2017) and G9 provide IBIS and substantially better video. Condition checks: DMW-BLC12 battery health — shared with the G5, G6, GH3, GH4, FZ1000 series — single SD slot contacts, and EVF/LCD for marks. Compatible with all Micro Four Thirds lenses from Panasonic, Olympus, and OM System.