The micro-four third cameras are lightweight and versatile for different applications. The OM System OM-1 Vs Panasonic G9 are exciting cameras with compact forms and lightweight bodies, but they are also different. The OM-1 is a much newer camera that brings many improvements to the system but is also more expensive, so today, we will see what those improvements are and which camera you should buy.
In this comparison, we will talk about the following:
- What are the OM System OM-1 and Panasonic G9?
- How is the Design of OM System OM-1 and Panasonic G9?
- What is the Spec of OM System OM-1 and Panasonic G9?
- How is the Autofocus in OM System OM-1 and Panasonic G9?
- How is the Video Recording in OM System OM-1 and Panasonic G9?
- OM System OM-1 and Panasonic G9?
- Which Micro Four-Third Camera to Buy?
| OM System OM-1 | Panasonic G9 | |
|---|---|---|
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| Product Dimensions | 5.3 x 3.6 x 2.9 inches | 5.39 x 3.83 x 3.61 inches |
| Shipping Weight | 7.4 ounces | 1.45 Pounds |
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About the OM System OM-1 and Panasonic G9
A camera’s sensor decides many of its performance, including the ability to capture light which is crucial for the device. Generally, the bigger sensors are better because they capture more light and what’s in front of the lens, especially in low-light situations. Some drawbacks of larger sensors are bigger bodies and cost because they are also expensive. The cameras with smaller sensors like OM System OM-1 and Panasonic G9 with micro four-third sensors are ideal if you dont focus on low-light performance. Read also: OM System OM-1 Vs Fujifilm XT4.
These cameras are some of the most popular micro four-third models today but are also different because the OM-1 is a much newer camera released in 2022, while the G9 was already a 4-year-old model then. OM-1 brings many improvements as the iteration of its older variant, including better autofocus and handling. This camera also has a better video recording feature, making it the more exciting choice if you dont mind adding some into the budget. However, we also realized that not everyone needs these updates.
The G9 is still a reliable camera years after its release. The still image quality is impressive, and the camera records 4K for those who plan on being content creators. Still, if you want the 10-bit recording, this mode is available on the OM-1, as the G9 is only 8-bit. For the price difference, the OM System OM-1 and Panasonic G9 are good cameras, and the choice should match your application as preference matters the most.
OM System OM-1 and Panasonic G9 Design
One visible difference between these cameras is the size because OM-1 is very compact, despite using the same sensor as G9. The G9 is smaller than typical APS-C cameras but still noticeably bulkier than OM-1 and heavier. As for the control scheme, these cameras follow their predecessor and are relatively easy to navigate. The rear panel also articulates to face the subject in video mode. The EVF is in the middle, but the OM-1 has a higher resolution delivering a cleaner preview.
OM System OM-1 and Panasonic G9 Specs
Let’s see what the OM System OM-1 and Panasonic G9 can offer, starting from the specs. These cameras use the same sensor size or micro-four-third and 20MP resolution, which should be enough for most people. We don’t see any notable difference in the images captured by these cameras on the same ISO level. Still, the amount of noise is different as you work your way up, and it becomes noticeable that the color differs. The JPEG color profiles are more popup on the OM-1 and a bit neutral on the G9.
You can also shoot in RAW mode to improve image quality and capture more information to work on the software. The image quality and color from RAW mode are more similar and identical from both cameras. You can push the ISO level much higher on the OM-1, but we are unsure whether it is practical in real life, depending on your shooting situation. If you often work in low-light conditions, cameras with bigger sensors like Canon EOS R10 Vs Sony a6500 are ideal for the applications.
OM System OM-1 and Panasonic G9 Autofocus Performance
Next, we want to see the autofocus performance on OM System OM-1 and Panasonic G9. Autofocus is crucial because it helps the camera always be in focus and avoid giving you those blurry shots since the cameras cannot fix their priority before snapping the image. This part is also a significant difference between these cameras, primarily because the G9 still uses a contrast-detect system, which is inferior for moving subjects, let’s say you do wildlife and sports photography.
On the other hand, the OM-1 already combines contrast and phase detection for a more reliable autofocus performance. The G9 is not bad in autofocus because the camera is still reliable and suitable for most people. Still, the OM-1 is closer to today’s standard, mainly if you often shoot moving subjects like wild animals.
OM System OM-1 and Panasonic G9 Video Recording
Lastly, we want to see the video abilities of OM System OM-1 and Panasonic G9 because they are versatile cameras and are powerful for videos. The main difference is the bit rate because the OM-1 records 10-bit videos versus 8-bit on the G9. As for the resolution, both cameras are identical because while the G9 is an old mode, this camera record 4K at 60fps, the exact huge resolution as OM-1. You can also lower the resolution to increase the frame rates when recording slow-motion videos.
The OM System OM-1 and Panasonic G9 are designed for hybrid users because they both the microphone and headphone jack for monitoring. We want to mention that G9 has a recording limit of 30 minutes for many formats and resolutions; it even limits to 10 minutes when recording 4K60, making it less convenient if you use the camera to record long videos.
OM System OM-1 Vs Panasonic G9
The OM System OM-1 and Panasonic G9 are some of the best micro-four-third cameras available but differ in some aspects. The OM-1 is a much newer camera, which also excels in autofocus. The image quality is identical on both cameras; even if the color is different, you can always do something about it on the computer. The video recording is also on par, but OM-1 is better overall because it records at a higher bit rate and has no recording limit for those who record long videos.
Conclusion
There is no wrong choice between OM System OM-1 and Panasonic G9 because they are equally good cameras with the same sensor and compact body. We recommend the OM-1 because it is the newer system with the most upgraded firmware from the company. It is versatile for hybrid users and equally powerful on stills and video recording. The camera is relatively affordable as many high-end micro four-thirds today are priced similarly.