More technical in-depth explanation of why I replaced the GH5 by X-T4 and A7C is in this video: *Fuji XT4 vs Panasonic GH5* - Fujifilm X-T4 is the new GH5? - bit.ly/FujiXT4vsPanasonicGH5

I've been hearing this for years, but it's not until T.H.S. says it that it seems depressingly final. Having said that, it doesn't mean that my G9 will suddenly stop working.

For me, I like m43 for the size. I use a GX85 and a few small primes like the 15mm 1.7. But increasingly, I find myself drawn to the GR II, and it's impossible to beat such a tiny camera for minimalist travel. Still, you can take great photos with a m43 system.

You sold me on getting the g9 a year and a half ago and it's an amazing camera! Keep up the great videos whatever system you choose

Well argued and articulated points - as somebody who has been considering purchasing a G95 for several years to replace my FZ2500, your videos have been a constant reminder to me of the reality of MFT. Thank you :)

Like a lot of m4/3 users I migrated to full-frame as well, but my G9 will probably always remain. The g9 with 100-400 is impossible to match with any full-frame kit in terms of size and IS. Physics simply won't allow it. That plus un-cropped 4k60p and articulating screen keeps me grabbing for it. I also like the stabilized primes, like the Leica nocticron 42.5 1.2, which to my knowledge has no match in any FF system (IBIS+OIS). There is still room for m4/3 in the expanding full-frame world, but I agree that full-frame has definitely caught up in most respects.

All very valid comments. Hopefully m43 will make a comeback... for those like me who are heavily invested.

I would like to see the MFT make a come back, but not without BSI and bulletproof hybrid AF system. No more that DFD...... I would even invest in it as one can get a complete system, 24 to 200 f2.8 + two primes + a rugged feature packed body for around 2000 GBP. A full kit like that on an A6600 would cost much more. The BSI, Hybrid AF and some really useful computational features are really needed though. Such a shame because the ergonomics and the usability on those MFT cameras is so good. My A6400 has great AF but I still miss my EM10 Mk2. There was something special about that Olly.

Power to you mate! You brought up some great points and you know that M43 just aint for you anymore and you're moving onto other systems which is totally fine. Personally I jumped onboard the M43 train back in 2015 with the Olympus OMD EM5 with some nice lenses like the 45mm 1.8, 75mm 1.8 and the 12-40 2.8 pro. I find that M43 for my usage is perfectly fine and I look forward to picking up a GH5 or G9 when it's more in my budget. I'll definitely be enjoying M43 gear for more years to come until I can afford full frame options and lenses. All the best and look forward to more of your videos! Regards from Australia

Absolutely agree with everything in this video. It's very sad to see the stagnation in the amateur camera market the last few years, and especially in the M43 camera system which was such a great concept with an enormous availability of lenses. I hope APS-C will still see some technological innovation in affordable packages moving forward. Especially with regards to sensor technology, IBIS, processing/RAW formats, and connectivity.

Hey mate! Long time viewer. I have 2 ff bodies - a7r3 and 6d2 with some lenses. I am considering m43 and its ibis unit for macro photography. I hear focus in camera focus staking of Olympus em1-3 and the ibis gives super results?

Currently I am a MU-43 user, but I totally agree if all the do is repackage old parts the system has a limited life. I hope they do manage to keep it going for those who want the advantages it still has, But as you pointed out some of these are being erroded by the larger sensors now.

Great video; I agree that micro four thirds has really slowed down of late. I’m a professional M 4/3rd photographer, but I don’t shoot any video. I get great results, my clients are all super jazzed, and have no reason to swap systems at the moment. However, if someone were to ask me if they should invest in this system in 2021 I would hesitate to openly endorse it. So I think if you’re in M4/3 and are happy, getting new gear isn’t going to make you a better photographer. But if you’re looking to start from the ground up and are thinking of laying down the foundation for a long term investment…I would suggest considering other options.

Thanks for the video. Your arguments are absolutely correct. The conclusion is simple, and you mentioned it: If you can and are willing to spend 2000-4000€ on a camera you will definitely go full frame mirrorless now. To buy an equally expensive MFT plus a professional fast lens is pointless. But I wanted a second camera to carry around in a pocket. Then MFT makes a lot of sense. I can carry a GX80 with the kit lens, a 24,5mm F1.7 portrait, a F1.7 25mm, and a 35-100 F4 telephoto lens easily in a small rucksack. And it will cost me less than any modern full frame plus kit lens. So, as you say, maybe MFT survives for those that do not want to carry an expensive and heavy equipment.

Painfully honest review. I came to the same conclusion when I bought the g9 in 2019 and realized that it was almost as expensive and large as some full frame and aps-c bodies. I wanted it for photography but a built-in stabilization and other seemingly advanced features can’t make up for the small sensor shortcomings. I still have some m43 lenses and a small GF7, the fun fact is that when I compared GF7 images with those of my G9, there really wasn’t much difference, although the latter cost almost four or five times as much. I realized that no matter how high you went on the M43 ladder there was this natural IQ limit in the sensor

Still have my GH1 sitting on my desk for show...got me into these types of cameras and away from stereotypical camcorders. Never looked back...

As a long Panas user i have to admit that Sony A7C is a m4/3 killer. It's smaller and lighter than my old buddy G7, not to mention crazy IQ from full frame sensor.

I've been with M43 since 2014 and i have to agree with you. There hasn't been any innovation in the system for 3 year now and the other systems have caught up to the advantages of M43. I think Panasonic and Olympus have to make some promising announcements this year or otherwise there wont be many reasons left to go for M43.

One of the reasons I follow you is because you always present a well thought-out case both for and against the various issues. I agree that with equivalency, the lenses for the different systems are more-or-less the same size, and the full-frame versions tend to have higher resolving power when tested in a lab. Good IBIS and 10-bit 422 colors have been the main things pulling me in the direction of M43. However, as a full-frame Nikon user, this would mean buying new lenses, and I've been holding off for new advances before investing in the system. Yes, it's been quite a while since the last major advance, and yes, it would be great to have good video specs and features in a camera that also has good autofocus. Now that Sony is giving their mirrorless cameras 10-bit 422 colors and longer-lasting batteries, and arguably the best autofocus in the business, they are much more attractive these days.

I just sold my full frame kit, and went MFT. Loving it so far, does everything i need with smaller kit

Aside from the brief time I had an Olympus OM-D E-M10 III back in early 2017 (less than 2 weeks before I returned it), I haven‘t owned a Micro Four Thirds kit since 2014. Personally speaking, I agree that most of the technical innovations that made M43 unique at the time are no longer advantages specific to that system, and neither Panasonic nor Olympus have done much to stay ahead of their competitors. I think part of the stagnation is related to Panasonic selling off their CMOS sensor manufacturing, which meant that both Olympus and Panasonic are reliant on other companies to help produce sensors and a processing pipeline (and, quite often, their lens formulas, apparently). If those 3rd parties don‘t innovate, Micro Four Thirds cannot innovate.

I've used M4/3 for almost 3 years, mostly Lumix cameras, but the lack of autofocus and the overall look of the image made me buy a M6 MK ii from Canon. Never regreted it. The autofocus, image quality imo and general feel of the camera is miles ahead of the m4/3 pack. Sure, the image quality in video is not as sharp as Panasonic's but, do I care? No, not a bit.

Farewell.

One of only 2, 3 channels that is honest and true. All is true. I still use GH5s,but I am agree. The only thing that I thing is not exactly 💯 percent is the weight.I did own S1, and the only reason to sell it was the weight and bulk.

I agree with your points. Personally I still enjoy my Em1 III & PRO lenses, and use it for pro photography as well as leisure shooting. But I have been eying some full frame systems lately.

I always wondered why Panasonic was lagging on releasing the GH-6. Lots of GH-5 fans would certainly upgrade

M43 still has a slight advantage. When we talk about "equivalence" it's usually in context of matching larger apertures, but usually not in reverse. Most of my FF gear is still larger, even if by subjectively small amounts. Consider laowa 7.5mm f2 vs 15mm f2 or 14mm f4. neither match m43 in size, which I'm more interested in, not looking for the widest aperture. Biggest exception is the samyang 24mm/35mm f2.8, great size, and aperture..... but the PL 15 easily holds its own. go to 85mm, the f1.8's are considerably larger than the 42.5, and dont offer near the stability. There is no FF 85mm f3.5, it probably would not sell well. pancake 12-32 vs sony 28-60, sony wins in optics, panasonic wins on sheer size, quite a bit smaller..... also much wider.... but I can see why you'd ditch m43 for YT, it's hard to get views lol. photographers are simply not even interested in micro four losers sensor sizes :). The sony is a bit of a soul crusher for other manufacturers, the siii is outstanding...... I slightly favor M43 lenses when it comes to travel gear, and that doesnt account to the pricing, which I've put in the way back of my mind.

Where choices are cleanest and most straightforward is when people shoot mainly one type of subject matter, and shoot only photos. For hobbyists who mainly shoot with smaller f1.8-f2.8 primes and f4 standard zooms, the compact “budget” FF mirrorless systems on offer from Sony, Nikon, Canon, and even Panasonic are fairly attractive. The value prop of 24x35mm sensor gear has never been stronger. However, someone who shoots a good amount of telephoto and wants a fairly lightweight kit for good-enough reach and quality, well, APS-C and m43 still have their attractions in terms of overall portability and dual-stabilized lens/body combinations. That’s why many FF shooters also have and use a second crop system. Where things can get very messy is when people already own a bunch of lenses, or they want to own a single system, and they shoot a variety of different subjects, and shoot both video and stills. Video capabilities (or lack thereof) can really affect preferences for a given camera system. Lens availability and features (e.g., constant aperture, par-focal, lack of focus breathing) can constrain the choice of system. In my opinion, m43 does have a big enough base of users - across general hobbyist photographers, wildlife shooters, drone users, and movie makers - that the format will continue to survive. The question is in what form. To my surprise, interesting new lenses do continue to emerge, such as the 12-200mm f3.5-6.3 and 8-25mm f4 lenses from Olympus, and the 10-25mm f1.7 and 25-50mm f1.7 lenses from Panasonic. I expect thinner camera body lines from Pana and OM System (focusing mainly on high end and low end) and fewer new lenses in the future.

I agree that if was buying into a camera system today, I would not choose a m4/3 system. But already own a GH5 and OMD-EM1 Mk 2 and plenty of lenses. And it still works well for me, I manual focus on any shot that's important to me, so better auto focus isn't a deal breaker for me. And I'm not a video professional, most of my content creation is done with GoPro, 360 cameras, iPhones and drones. So the GH5 video is still the best looking video I shoot. I'll upgrade someday, when a new deal breaking feature arrives on a full frame camera. After all, no ever sends me an email and says that picture you took would have looked better if had used a Sony full frame.

I'm going to stick with m43 for a little longer but yes is hard to justify a G9 over a sony a6400 or fuji xs10, the other issue is the g95 and g100 having cropped 4k make the 4k almost useless, also the lenses are not much cheaper compare to sony apsc or fujifilm.

Can’t disagree. Fuji has been charging ahead though I have had bad reliability issues with them. I’m not doing anything that requires more than a M43 camera. And so I stay.

So, can I have you’re m4/3 lenses?

Pretty much all true. I had several m4/3 cameras and 3 Pro lenses by Olympus. They were really good. But the full frame systems progressed a lot in the last 3 years. Now I use a full frame Sony camera. And between the Samyang primes and the Tamron zooms, I have more performance for less money. And the main thing is, that the new lenses are not much bigger than the good m4/3 ones. Plus the prices of the full frame cameras dropped significantly. All of that resulted in my m4/3 having no advantages over the bigger sensor system - nor size, nor price, nor performance. Yes, if having the smallest possible system is the main priority, m4/3 can still deliver. But only in that very specific scenario.

OK, valid arguments, but why invest around 15K for a new system, when the G9 and the GX9 deliver fantastic results. BTW it is so much fun to shoot with the G9 and the GX9. As long as my images do not outperform the camera, I´m happy.

I use Sony FF and aps-c at my workplace provided by the company, but I use mfts for travels and personal projects becuase the lens are way smaller and handy.

Still think it’s dead with the GH6 announcement?

Sad to see you leaving the system as you're one of the best MF3 reviewers on YT, but I do understand you... and actually agree with your view. It's a shame that Panasonic didn't spend time/resources on MF3 in the last years. I still have hope in the system though. If GH6 is released in the coming months, would you considering coming back to MF3?

Thanks for your thoughts. Although I mostly prefer FF (S1R / S5) for photography, I still prefer my trusty old GH5 for video work. It just gets the job done very reliably without fuzz and with great results imho. Anyway I couldnt justify or afford a change of system every time some "innovation" hits the market. The question is if you need it, not the mere fact that there is innovation.

Why should newcomers choose MFT? One camera that I find exciting from Olympus would be a successor to the PEN F, a small camera with interchangeable lenses for street photography. For Panasonic, the upcoming "GH6" is crucial, if it comes up with 4K120 and other interesting video features and a great body, this camera can be a success. It is difficult to place a camera on the same price level as a Z5, AIII, S5, Canon RP, XT-4 - at least for newcomers who are still interested in photography beyond smartphone cameras.

I bought a brand new X-T3 with 18-55mm in August 2020 for only €750 and used it with much pleasure. It was an amazing camera to hold and use. The RAWS were excellent but I also did shoot jpegs with film recipes/simulations. The only downside was the lack of Ibis or image stabilization. I also used the 35mm 1.4 lens on it and got my best pictures with this combination. Two months ago I sold my kit with 300 euro profit, but at the end I did lose, because I miss the camera. Now I got the GX-80 with the 15mm 1.7, 45mm 1.8 and 14-140mm all for €900. I really like the small form factor, Ibis and ease of use. I just miss the great autofocus and the exposure dial. I hope that there will be a GX10 that you described. Otherwise I will keep the set I have and invest in Sony Full Frame in the future. Panasonic GX-80/9 is still one of the best options for the casual/travel photographer.

I've moved to Sony too, however if it wasn't for the autofocus and low light I doubt I would've made the move. I love my GX85 with my Olympus 17, 45 & 75mm f/1.8 primes. So capable for the money, especially if you are able to buy used.

Two things that bothered me were the shutter shock issue and the partial support of oly lenses by pana because of dfd, in addition of everything said in the video.

I've been shooting full frame for years, but I'm just about ready to move to M43 just for size. Sure, there are some smaller full frame and APS-C bodies, but when it comes to glass - the options aren't there for zooms. I'm basically looking at the equivalent of a 24-70 & 70-200 in all systems, and nothing comes close to the M43 in size and weight.

I'm here for the omega speedmaster.

It was actually the xs10 that did it for me. The size and handling made m43 irrelevant. Ibis is still well behind olympus, though.. the size advantage is still there on wide and tele lenses, if only because there are no equivalent FF or apsc counterparts. Nobody is making an f5.6 or f8 constant 24-200.

Aww man, I bought a G9 because I watched your channel, and you posted this 😂

Revamped Pen F 2021 with weather sealing and lighting for dials and improved video IBIS and AF and increased sensor megapixel..increased optical viewer only.I will buy it for travel

True here, as a current G9 user i find that MFT is really "killing me" with their lens option. The MFT its supposed to be small great cam, but their lens somehow not state the same. Leica 10-25mm f1.7 is a one hell big lens with 20-50mm f3.4 eq Full Frame which with lets say Tamron 17-28mm or 28-75mm f2.8 can be beaten flat with cheaper price, not to mention the ISO and AF performance. The only thing that hold me is the IBIS which only can be compared to S series which have AF as bad as their MFT, so its a no.

Very good analysis. I admit I do use micro 4/3 on occasion (gx9), but only really as a hiking camera (where ultimate image quality isn't all that important) with the Olympus 14 - 42 pancake. In all other scenarios its Fuji APSC (especially for video) and Nikon full frame.

It's very interesting that you mention the digital sharp appearance of micro four thirds' image quality. I bought a used Olympus EM10 Mk II just to play and experiment with. I've taken it out a number of times for stills photography and am just not happy with anything that comes out of it. The photos look digitally sharpened compared to my 24 megapixel APSC Canon which produces very natural, smooth looking photos. I've tried turning down sharpening in Adobe Camera Raw and multiple lenses, but I just can't seem to escape that unpleasant look. My Olympus is great for family snapshots, but if this is a general characteristic of M43's I just can't consider purchasing a higher model and using it as my main platform.

M43 could be a winner in de Premium compact camera division, like the LX 100 series. I love my LX100m2 and iam wondering why olympus for example did not introducing a camera like the LX100.

At the moment I would give little attention to OM-D. Olympus wanted to get rid of the division, did not finance any strategic development and the new owner has to start a new development first. In the meantime, Panasonic has pushed the S series and carried out further software developments there. And since the average life of a camera is around 7 years, 3 years is not much.

I agree. I think M4/3 will only be able to compete with mid to low level APS-C cameras in the sub 1000 euros market. And that's absolutely fine: if Panasonic and Olympus do the right choices, they can make wonderful cameras with A LOT of features and good image quality. The fact is they don't seem to be interested in doing that, and with the huge amount of lenses coming out for FF (especially for Sony) the over 1000-1500 euros market is a no-go for M4/3. Many lenses even cost way less for FF than M4/3 except for tele lenses. As you said, a GX10 with a new sensor, good monitor and EVF, improved IBIS, weather sealing and good video functions, maybe coupled with the M4/3 small primes, would be a fantastic kit. Big cameras like a G9 Mk.II etc. would make no sense anymore...

Your conclusions are valid

I'm an MFT shooter and I agree with a lot of this. I particularly never understood why people always say the lenses are smaller for MFT, they are in many cases but Sony have proved you can make small lenses for FF. Leica have been doing it for a century and people don't seem to notice. MFT still has a significant edge for very long lenses and constant aperture zooms where they do seem to be much smaller than FF equivalents. The way I see it (posting after gh6 and Om1 releases) MFT should go two ways. 1. Do their best to capitalise on the smaller sensor's lower processing requirements. Go all out on something that shoots crazy specs like 5.7k 120 or 4k 120 in RAW internal, 4k 240 10 bit 422. Offer it at 3 grand. The only alternatives with those specs are several thousand more. 2. Revitalise the small camera/point and shoot. Seems like a fraught endeavour but the Sony zv-1 seems quite popular. I love my gx80 and something similar with updated specs could be quite compelling for hobbyists, KZfaqrs and street photographers. Here's my vision - Keep the body size - Keep the 20mp of the gx9 if you like but 16 from gx80 is actually perfect IMO. - Minor improvement to stabilisation would be great - PHASE DETECTION AF ESSENTIAL - 4k uncropped at up to 60p, 1080 120. These can be 8 bit but a good data rate. 200mpb/s maybe. - Nice picture profiles (somebody needs to compete with Fuji on this) - Go all in on computational photography --- Handheld high res in affordable models --- Super fast HDR composite photo modes --- Some kind of night mode --- Work on the panorama modes, they can actually be a lot of fun --- Offer a crazy digital stabilisation even if it's a big crop, just to allow for some action/sport use. - A decent affordable f2.8 zoom with IS - Do something fun! Do something with interesting dials for selecting different picture profiles or something. - Update the tiny 12-32mm Panasonic either with a 2.8-4 aperture or maybe somehow a constant 3.5? I don't know enough about lens design to know if this is possible. BONUS: Okay so here's maybe the crazy idea. If Sony can use the tiny E mount for full frame, why can't Olympus and Panasonic use the MFT mount for APSC? Bring all the amazing features they have to APSC while retaining the lens system for existing users. There could be a crop mode like Sony have and then new lenses coming out can be made to cover the full APSC sensor. Is that completely crazy or am I making some sense?

I agree with most of your points as a user of both systems: MFT & FF. However, I want to know more about your mentioning "digitally sharp looking" images (mentioned at 3:00) and higher pixel density (maybe with another video), is that related to the physical limitation that is very hard to overcome? I believe there's going to be an ultra-high-resolution FF sensor with higher pixel density than today's MFT in the next 5 years or so. If unpleasing sharpness is made due to physical limitations, will a new ultra-high-resolution FF system in the future suffer from the same problem? Any technical reference for that would be highly appreciated!

Unfortunately I have to agree. I have also moved away from M43 in 2021. I jumped to Fuji for X100V to actually fully sidestep picking a new system at the moment (none of the systems precisely has what I want at the moment - so I will wait, shooting on the X100V in the meantime) until the situation clarifies for me. I have hope that Olympus /OMDS brings back innovation and with that Panasonic also recommits, but in the meantime, I will sit and wait.

Ouch. But as usual, great breakdown. Thanks

My primary camera is Micro Four Thirds, though I also have cameras with sensors from 1” to full frame. This video touched on the topic of aperture equivalence. Everyone’s needs and styles are different, but at least for me, it is very rare for me to be shooting at maximum aperture and wanting even more background blur. I find that my sensor size gives me plenty of DOF control in a relatively compact package.

As MFT owner I think this video is to the point. Instead of trying to make small sensor an advantage, Panasonic and Olympus were trying to work around it's disadvantages so they've lost everything unique: ergonomic bodies that work with bigger and heavier lenses must be of size of Sony A7III or Panasonic G80 - this way they can have good enough grip, tripod plate does not block battery or SD card door, they can have large enough tilt screen and view finder ... and flash that is not blocked by bulkier lenses. Body size or weight advantage is gone. I think that G9 is even bigger than Sony A7 series camera (i never had G9). With lenses it's somewhat similar. We have premium lenses like PL 2.8-4 series that much APSC lenses in weight, size and price. Yeah ... we can use small lenses as well and it actually makes sense - cause F2.8 is not good enough and I ended using either 12-60 f3.5-5.6 lens, 45-150 and then 20mm or 45mm primes to work with depth of field. 12-35/f2.8 sadly sits in the middle and it does not offer much of zoom range or low enough aperture. It used to be my most used lens, now I rarely use it and i'm even thinking about selling it. Concept was very promising and I liked and used GF1 with 20mm/f1.7 lens a lot, but after all upgrades I ended with G80 - which is almost perfect in my opinion with one big flaw - it's already too heavy for everyday use and for having fun with it, it's a good tool however. Now I don't know where to go next ... buy Fuji X100V, sell all MFT gear except G80 and zoom lenses? Move to Fuji ecosystem completely with possibility of spending two or three month salary on lenses over next few years and realizing that cameras and lenses are too heavy? To throw 11 years old GF1 with 20mm lens into my shoulder bag and stop looking for better options? Good thing about X100V is that I can buy 50mm converter, lens hood, spare battery and price is final (unless X100VI appears with IBIS which is only missing feature)

I'd be interested to hear how you think I could best replace my G9 and PL100-400. I don't want any more weight or size. I don't want to pay any more and I'd like a solution that I find as ergonomically pleasing. I've investigated but I don't think there is an alternative.

M43 is dead. I started off with Panasonic M43 and while I was mostly OK with it. I hit the limits of the system pretty quickly. I think M43 still has a place but it's going to be budget cameras and perhaps a GH6. There's been nothing new really in M43 in a long while. Moved to Fuji X and never looked back. Also I own FF Sony and while I like it, still Fuji X for me as my primary system. It surprised me how Fuji can make an X-T3 and it be smaller than a GH5 or G9. There's also surprisingly little in it lens wise. Yet the sensor and focus is far better. I considered a move to L mount Panasonic when I considered my upgrade path in 2019 but the stubborn refusal of Panasonic to use modern phase detect sensor focus technology just put me off.

Best choice on m43 G9 is pretty old now, m43 really need a body refresh😟

Very interesting Video. I have used Panasonic mft since 2009.I use two GF1, two GX7 and one GX8. I totally agree that the developement of gear consists mostly of repackaging. You mention a future GX10, I do look forward to it's apperance. In the meantime I am considering the XE-4 and A7C. Keep up your good work / Ulf

Pretty accurate on everything you mentionned

Totally agree with your assessment. I'd been using m4/3 for a while. Then started using Fuji X. All my m4/3 just sat there gathering dust. I just started using the A7c, and now both the Fuji and m4/3 are gathering dust. I'm still holding on to the hope that Olympus will release a Pen Fii so that I can make use of the smallish m4/3 lenses such as the 14/2.5, 15/1.7, 25/1.4 and 42.5/1.7. I could just never get myself to get any of the more recent "high end" m4/3 cameras as they are the same size as Fuji and Sony counterparts and weren't significantly cheaper upon their release.

Hey William, do you think Olympus will get something new on the market? The new company seems to have a different approach than the mother Oly. Also do you think they will be keeping the name or try to distance themselves from the Olympus tag?

I make video's with my G85. A small camera with a small 14-140mm lens. For KZfaq video's you don't need bigger camera's. Nothing beats this small combination!

Valid points. MFT may have become all it can be. But so what? For me, as an amateur/enthusiast photographer, a G9 already offers more than I'll ever need, both in sensor and specs. Looking at mft and the S series, I think Panasonic has a pretty decent future. I am certainly not switching.

Unfortunately they will continue repackaging the same until nobody cares any more... I hope they see your video so they can come up with better ideas.

Hey! What are your thoughts on the IMX472 sensor? If that's what sony is making available for purchase, imagine what exclusive sensor they might be working on for olympus or panasonic - or is that train of thought flawed? I don't know much about the business side of these sensors. I'm just excited to see a stacked BSI m43 sensor with PD pixels entering the market.

I wish they would make more pocketable m4/3 options. I really want to get an. Olympus but they only make high spec spaceships, ehne I just want a simple small camera with their colours, stabilisation, and PDAF.

Agreed. I have two M43 cameras and a bunch of lens from the excellent 12-60mm Olympus to Rokinon 12mm prime for video. Size was and is everything for M43. When Panasonic/Olympus started making cameras as large as APSC/Sony FF AND the price skyrocketed to $2000 and up, which is the same price point as the Sony A73, then it makes people pause, real hard. Especially for shooting any kind of high movement activity, like sports. The top end lens are expensive, some in the same league as Nikon/Canon/Sony. So what is the advantage? None. Even the menus aren't any better really, just different. Sony controls the sensor production and innovation. They are not going to allow too much competition, and therefore no new M43 sensors for three years or more. Sony autofocus is state of the art, and unless one wants to hold a camera in the shape of a bar of soap (Canon), Sony is the clear leader in everything, size, value, technical innovation, autofocus, even lens. Just don't expect to hold an A73 or an A9 or any Sony body really for longer than a couple of hours, more than two days in row. Not a problem for most people apparently, even pros. Just memorize the five thousand menu options randomly spread out amongst hundreds of pages of menus and you are all set with the most complete set of technical specs on the planet. Want a hybrid video camera? A7S. High resolution stills? A7R. Cheap? A7. Semi Pro? take your pick, A9, A1. Pro Video? Too many to mention. Small? A7C or just use your Smartphone!! Can't make up your mind? Pick one and it will do almost everything all the rest do with some compromises. Olympus sold out and stopped the bleeding. Who is next you might ask and answer for us. Thanks and Stay Safe.

For me the light gathering ability of the aperture is much more important than shallow depth of field. Actually I think full frame has too much shallow depth of field, I prefer a deep depth of field in video 80% of the time, that is easier to achieve with micro four thirds. The low light ability of M43 lenses is much better where you can get f 1.8 lenses that are very small, in full frame such lenses are 2-4 times the size.

Took my little old gh3 out today with 12-35 lens and loved it ... 👍💯

Given the recent announcements (GHM5 II, GH6 & Firmware updates) from Panasonic demonstrating their commitment and continued development to M43, would you be considering a return to using M43 equipment again?

For me m43 is about the size,weight and price. Ofc there are compromises. When you start paying big money and start to get larger camera bodies then it loses its shine for me. A gx9 and lumix 100-300 is a nice cheap and light setup for me but i don't think i have anywhere to go next. But hopefully this kit will last a long time I need a 600mm reach lens for when i'm taking shots of animals and just don't want to be packing much more weight. Maybe i might end up going apsc but can't see me ever going full frame.

Cool Málaga shots!

Nice review ! i've just switched to fuji from gx80, especially for dials, film simulations and AF, and of course the look. But i have really enjoyed shoot with m43 system 👍

I'd own a series of 5 Panasonic m43 camera over the years (so) it hurts me to admit that there is NO HOPE for M43 Panasonic. It is very hard to argue against Panasonic own Full Frame S5. (1) FF S5 is smaller than Gh5 with 1/4 smaller sensor (2) FF S5 is often cheaper, when you consider B&H is selling $2000 S5 with a free 20-60mm kit lens (3) S5 enjoy superior lowlights that even Gh5S can't compete. M43 no longer makes any sense. M43 is Bigger, Heavier, worse value, and horrible lowlights with terrible AF.

Actually, I just bought micro four third camera recently because I've seen a lot of your videos, but now you say goodbye 😂😂 Of course your honest opinion is somewhat make sense and hope the resurrection of micro four third will soon happen in near future.

All your points make sense to me, but the affordability of m43 for me has been a significant benefit, and I’ve been able to build a g9 + 4lens kit for similar price as a7 iii body. Though if I had the money I think the options you presented would be very tempting (though not the a7iii as it feels horrible in the hand)

I essentially agree with your assessment of M43. I own the Panasonic G9, G85 and the GX85. I still think the G9 is a great value for a camera. Great IBIS, weather sealing, 2 card slots, articulating screen, great EVF, 4K 60, 10 bit options (which aren’t always on current cameras at this price point) etc. etc. If Panasonic developed their AF for video and tracking to be comparable to Sony or Canon (both phase and contrast) I think they could still stay in the game. Why are they so stubborn? Still, I don’t think these cameras are all that limiting with what they provide, the photographer/videographer is given more than enough to work with. Better gear doesn’t always translate to better photography, it just empties your wallet faster.

I wouldn’t say I left m43 but I did just pick up a Canon m6 mk2 for shooting stills and actually very impressed with its 4K video. I do however use a Pocket4K for more professional video work. I would happily go back to a m43 stills camera if they could somehow mange 30MP without horrible performance. I can crop the APSC stills down to m43 crop factor and still have more resolution than my GH4 could manage full sensor. On top of that I can add a Metabones to turn the M6 into an almost FF camera with a stop better performance. So I basically can have a FF with focal reducer, APSC and m43 reach with a little crop all in one camera. The M6 also cost much less than a five year old GH5 and the native m mount lenses have been very affordable.

I had my first camera in 2016, It was Panasonic G6 and I saw a lot of yours videos since then. But then I bought Fujifilm, and there is no way back to M43 😄🤷🏽 Thanks for all your videos!! Díky

Well said "My Friend" and thank you for your videos ! I think that the M43 system can survive and as a place, but mostly as a "Small Deluxe" camera system like a "GM5 Deluxe" for example or a small sized GX (GX1) or EM5/EM10 body, just look at the prices of GM5s on Ebay, people do want to own a "mini" interchangeable body camera system. Now for the photographic experience to occur (unlike w yr cel phone) all models would need to have tilting or swiveling screens depending if it is a photo or video centric camera and as important an Enjoyable Viewfinder to differentiate the M43 system experience from the one of a cel phone thus making it a valid excuse to own one!

I agree with you. I have two M4/3 cameras(Panasonic G6 and GX80). The problem for me is the autofocus. Very hit and miss. I am considering either getting a Sony Aseries or getting a FF. The problem with FF, is the cost of the lenses. I'm not a pro, so can't justify shelling out the money. Plus, the weight of the lenses, I'm 64. So, am thinking APS-C. Any thoughts?

Decent explanation and good points here. Coming from a Nikon DSLR user and wildlife hybrid shooter I tried the MFT system a few years ago and the image quality was okay, the menus, handling and features were great but the AF system was poor for wildlife tracking. I sold all my MFT gear & have just bought a Fujifilm X-S10 and that is very compact, lightweight but powerful camera system with stunning image quality for stills and video.

I can't blame you

As a pro user with 45+ years of experience with everything from 120 box cameras to the newest Nikon full frames, I agree with your conclusions wholeheartedly. I own 3 mft cameras, and while they were good enough in their day, they are well overmatched by more recent, larger sensor cameras that happen to also be around the same price currently. And as you stated, the prospect of small sensor/small camera is an unrealized objective of mft. Thanks for vid.

This assessment feels pretty accurate unless something changes. That being said. I still find the gear useful, especially for using vintage lenses with speed boosters. If I ever upgrade to full frame or larger.. I'll still return to m43 for the adaptobility.

I bought a gx9 and a bunch of lens. I own the following. olympus 12- 100 , 45mm lumix, 45-150 lumix, 20mm lumix, 75-300 olympus, -and the 7-14 mm lumix. I was very happy. I try to ve positive and support m4/3 but i am always struggling with all the limitations such image quality, auto focus, low light performance. I want to move to full frame but i dont know what to do with all this expensive stuff

No replacement for Displacement. Big sensor actually helps in difficult lighting.

I fully agree with your assessment. The Sony A7C makes any M43 cam irrelevant. The sony is small, not more expensive than an Olympus or a future GH6 and has a full frame sensor, IBIS and amazing autofocus. All the advantages that M43 sensors used to have around 2015 are now gone thanks to improvement in the technologies implemented in full frame sensor cam and especially in Sonys. This year I will leave Panasonic to go either the Sony or Fuji route, but as of now Sony looks much better to me, at least for stills.

You must hate having to eat your words, new GH5 mk2 getting usb-c charging and new s5 battery. That's some MFT innovation right there. Maybe it will be backside illuminated, but assuming it's not. I am considering switching. Would you go x-mount or fullframe?

I was thinking of upgrading to the Panasonic G9 but is waiting for a discount, but there hasn't been one for over a year. Now I don't know if I should jump ship. I have 5 lens for my Olympus EM5 II so I wouldn't say I'm totally invested. I only use my camera for family and vacation pictures and for occasional nature photos. The main thing I want is better low light performance and faster autofocus. Was thinking of selling all my M43 gears and maybe buy a Sony A7III with a couple of lens. That should last me for about 5 years.

A few months ago, I changed my G9 with a lot of great lens for a Nikon Z6 with a 24-200 and a 50 1.8. I'm very sorry to say this, but the picture quality difference is abyssal :(

I left m43 in 2019 with a lot of pain in my heart but it was the right decision to make. I already felt like m43 was stagnant in 2019 and these last two years have really shown that both olympus and panasonic don't care anymore. Honestly I don't see a bright future for both companies in the camera department. With olympus being bought by JDI I think they'll just slowly kill Olympus off and the L-Mount alliance isn't doing great numbers either so I wouldn't be surprised if they left as well after a couple of years if it continues like this.

I looked at the M43 situation about a year ago, and upgraded my GH4 to a Fuji X-T3. Better video AF was the primary reason. I agree with all of your points, however I feel you neglected a few interesting subjects. Primarily lenses, and advanced video features on both systems. I believe Panasonic still has the lead in this area. Panasonic has more zoom lenses as well as third party options. FujiFilm needs to expand their zoom line up and we are still waiting for Sigma to make X-Mount lenses. If all you shoot with are primes, then Fuji is great. As for advanced options - the GH5 is the cheapest camera that can shoot video without a 30 minute time out. As well as having built in options for anamorphic lenses, shutter angle and superior custom presets. The Fuji - XT3/4 still cannot save custom video settings. It's incredibly half baked. Maybe these comments should be in a "What Fuji still needs to do" video or something - either way great video!

It is 2022, I'm really considering getting a G95 to replace my G85 after having the G9 for a while. I use them for KZfaq videos mostly and I didn't see much difference between the G85 and the G9 in quality. I did get a Sony a7C for my picture work and it does give me better resolution but not much different from my Canon 5D Mk1. I just love the 12-60 Leica on my G85 and that is the reason for wanting a G95, even though the camera is from 2019, if it performs slightly better than my G85, I would be more than satisfied.