Panasonic Lumix GH6 vs Sony FX30
The Panasonic Lumix GH6 and Sony FX30 are both professional video-focused cameras, but target different workflows. The GH6 is a compact hybrid mirrorless excelling at 4K 120fps and stills, while the FX30 is a cinema line camera optimized for cinema codecs and broadcast reliability.
Panasonic Lumix GH6
A hybrid mirrorless camera built on the Micro Four Thirds system, delivering high-speed 4K video, robust stabilization, and versatile stills performance in a compact body.
Sensor
Micro Four Thirds (4/3 inch)
Max Video
4K 120fps, 6K 30fps
Release Date
June 2022
Price Range
$1,700–$1,900 (body only)
Autofocus
Contrast-based, ~720 zones
Pros
- 4K 120fps and 6K video capabilities at high frame rates
- Compact, lightweight form factor with extensive lens ecosystem
- Excellent hybrid stills and video performance with fast autofocus
Cons
- Smaller Micro Four Thirds sensor limits low-light performance and shallow depth of field
- Not optimized for cinema workflows or broadcast codecs
- Higher price relative to compact mirrorless alternatives
Sony FX30
A compact cinema camera featuring a full-frame sensor, cinema-optimized codecs (S-Log3), and professional broadcast connectivity for documentary and event production.
Sensor
Full-frame (35 mm)
Max Video
4K 60fps UHD/DCI
Release Date
October 2022
Price Range
$3,500–$3,800 (body only)
Color Science
S-Log3, 10-bit codecs
Pros
- Full-frame sensor provides superior low-light performance and cinematic depth of field
- Cinema-native codecs (XAVC-S, S-Log3) streamline professional color grading workflows
- Built-in ND filters and timecode support for broadcast production
Cons
- Limited to 4K 60fps maximum frame rate; no high-speed 4K options
- Narrower lens ecosystem compared to Sony E-mount mirrorless bodies
- Heavier, bulkier form factor; not ideal for hybrid stills/video work
Sony FX30 wins
FX30 wins overall as a professional cinema camera with superior low-light performance, cinema-native codecs, and broadcast features, though GH6 better suits hybrid creators and high-speed video needs.
Panasonic Lumix GH6
Vloggers, travel creators, and hybrid stills/video shooters seeking compact, lightweight gear with 4K 120fps.
Sony FX30
Documentary teams, broadcast productions, and colorists requiring full-frame cinematography and professional log color workflow.
Video & Performance Comparison
4K Video Frame Rate
GH6 reaches 4K 120fps; FX30 maxes at 4K 60fps, limiting slow-motion options.
Low-Light Performance
FX30's full-frame sensor handles high ISO noise better than GH6's Micro Four Thirds.
Color Science & Grading
FX30 includes cinema S-Log3 and 10-bit output; GH6 uses standard rec.709 and H.264/HEVC.
Portability & Form Factor
GH6 is noticeably lighter and more compact; FX30 is heavier and cinema-focused.
Stills Performance
GH6 is a true hybrid with strong stills autofocus; FX30 prioritizes video, not stills.
Broadcast Readiness
FX30 includes timecode, built-in ND filters, and cinema codecs; GH6 lacks these features.
Key Specifications & Features
| Aspect | Panasonic Lumix GH6 | Sony FX30 |
|---|---|---|
| Sensor Size | Micro Four Thirds (4/3 inch) | Full-Frame (35 mm) |
| Maximum Video Format | 6K 30fps / 4K 120fps | 4K 60fps UHD/DCI |
| Color Depth & Codecs | 8-bit H.264/HEVC, rec.709 | 10-bit XAVC-S, S-Log3 |
| Built-in Stabilization | 5-axis digital & sensor shift | Electronic only, no mechanical OIS |
| Autofocus System | Contrast-based, fast and reliable | Hybrid AF, fewer zones than mirrorless |
| Price (Body Only) | $1,700–$1,900 | $3,500–$3,800 |
Use Case & Workflow Fit
The GH6 excels for independent creators, travel vloggers, and hybrid content makers who need high-speed 4K, stills, and portability in one lightweight package. The FX30 is built for documentary crews, broadcast productions, and colorists who prioritize cinema workflows, log color grading, and professional codec support over raw speed and versatility.
When to choose each
Choose Panasonic Lumix GH6 if…
Vloggers, travel creators, and hybrid stills/video shooters seeking compact, lightweight gear with 4K 120fps.
Choose Sony FX30 if…
Documentary teams, broadcast productions, and colorists requiring full-frame cinematography and professional log color workflow.
Frequently Asked Questions
The GH6 is superior, offering 4K 120fps versus the FX30's 4K 60fps. Choose the GH6 if slow-motion and frame-rate flexibility are critical.
The FX30 uses a full-frame sensor for superior low-light and depth of field; the GH6 uses Micro Four Thirds, which is more compact but noisier at high ISO. FX30 suits broadcast, GH6 suits mixed content.
The FX30 is optimized for professional workflows with S-Log3, 10-bit XAVC-S codec, and cinema color science. The GH6 lacks log profile and is limited to 8-bit rec.709.
Sources & references
Suggested sources to verify product details, pricing, reviews, and specifications.
- MarketplaceB&H Photo GH6 and FX30 Pricing & Availability
Current retail pricing and body-only bundle options.
- ReferencePanasonic Lumix DC-GH6 review: DPReview | Photography News, Gear Reviews & Community
The GH6 is <strong>built around a sensor with parallel high and low-gain readouts to deliver a 'Dynamic Range Boost
- ReferencePanasonic Lumix GH6 review: the ultimate hybrid? | TechRadar
After a couple of weeks with the GH6 we’re left in no doubt that this is Panasonic’s most powerful Micro Four Thirds cam