Panasonic Lumix GF7 Review – Verdict
The GF7’s touchscreen tilts upwards and forwards for selfies
After spending some time with the GF7, I’m happy to report that it’s a very capable little camera. Indeed, I’d be tempted to conclude that, aside from build quality and its slightly cheesy looks, it’s a better camera than the highly regarded GM1. The flip-up screen is genuinely useful, and the slightly larger size means that the GF7 is more comfortable to hold.
The problem facing the GF7, though, is that it’s in a cut-throat class that’s packed full of very capable little cameras, but offers little to make itself stand out. In comparison, the Sony Alpha 5100 offers a larger sensor and an incredibly sophisticated autofocus system, the Olympus Pen E-PL7 includes in-body image stabilisation and arguably more attractive JPEG output, and the Fujifilm X-A2 has enthusiast-friendly twin-dial controls.
Don’t get me wrong, I rather like the GF7, but I’m just not sure that it brings enough to the table to make it a really compelling option for the casual photographers it’s designed for. Instead it may be more attractive to existing Micro Four Thirds users as a compact second body.
