CameraReview

Panasonic Lumix DMC GF2

Panasonic · Mirrorless · 12.1 MP · Micro Four Thirds · Full HD video

Panasonic Lumix DMC GF2

Score Breakdown

Scores combine our editorial testing with published lab data.

Optics 39
Video 56
Features 49
Storage & Battery 16
40
SCORE /100
Independent Lab Scores
THIRD-PARTY LAB DATA · DXOMARK
54
Overall score
22.8
Color depth
12.5
Dynamic range
656
Low light ISO
Independent measurement — not part of our /100 score.
Buying Options

General

BrandPanasonic
ModelLumix DMC GF2
Released
ⓘ
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
2010
Announcement date
ⓘ
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
November 4, 2010
Camera typeMirrorless
Camera size113 x 68 x 33 mm
Camera weight310 g

Optics

39/100
About the Optics

The Panasonic Lumix DMC GF2 receives a score of 40/100. With dimensions of 113 x 68 x 33mm and a weight of 310g (0.68lbs), it is a compact and lightweight option for photographers. Although it was a decent camera in 2010, its specifications and capabilities may not be as impressive in today’s market, considering the rapid advancements in camera technology. Nonetheless, it remains a functional choice for casual photography enthusiasts.

Panasonic Lumix DMC GF2 Overview and Optics

The optics of the Panasonic Lumix DMC GF2 receive a score of 39/100. This camera features 12.1 megapixels, a shooting speed of 2.6, a CMOS sensor type, and a Venus Engine FHD processor. The DXOMARK score for the sensor is 54, and the sensor size is Micro Four Thirds. The lens mount is Micro 4/3, but the camera lacks image stabilization and has an aspect ratio of 4:3.

Compared to other cameras on the market, the GF2 has lower specifications in terms of megapixels, shooting speed, and sensor performance. The lack of image stabilization may also be a disadvantage for some users. However, the Micro Four Thirds sensor size and lens mount offer compatibility with a wide range of lenses, providing versatility for different photography styles.

Taking these factors into account, the Panasonic Lumix DMC GF2’s optics may not be the strongest option for those seeking the latest technology and highest performance. However, it remains a viable choice for users who prioritize lens compatibility and versatility in their camera selection.

Megapixels
ⓘ
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
12.1 MP050
Image resolution
ⓘ
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
4000 x 3000
Sensor type
ⓘ
The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality.
CMOS
Sensor size
ⓘ
The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture.
13 x 17.3
Sensor format
ⓘ
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
Micro Four Thirds
Continuous shooting
ⓘ
The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode.
2.6 fps045
Lens mount
ⓘ
The lens mount will tell you what type of lens range you can fit onto the camera body. Often the same camera company will have different lens ranges for different cameras.
Micro 4/3
Image processor
ⓘ
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Venus Engine FHD
Aspect ratio
ⓘ
The aspect ratio refers to the proportional difference between width and height. The most popular aspect ratios are 3:2 and 4:3.
4:3
Min ISO
ⓘ
Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image.
10030200
Max ISO
ⓘ
Refers to the highest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Higher ISO is necessary for low-light situations or night photography, but higher ISOs often introduce grain or noise.
64003003280000
Min ISO (expanded)
ⓘ
Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary.
10030200
Max ISO (expanded)
ⓘ
Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary.
64003003280000
Minimum shutter speed
ⓘ
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
6044080
Max shutter speed
ⓘ
The maximum shutter speed tells you the length inside 1 second the camera will capture. These can sometimes be extended with accessories such as extra external batteries.
400080032000
Autofocus points
ⓘ
Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings.
230300
In-body stabilisation
ⓘ
In-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake.
No
Viewfinder type
ⓘ
The viewfinder type is either electronic or optical. Electronic viewfinders will have a small screen in the viewfinder. Optical viewfinders will use prisms and mirrors to look through the lens.
None
Viewfinder dotsN/A

Video

56/100
About the Video

The Panasonic Lumix DMC GF2 receives a video score of 56/100. This camera has a maximum video resolution of Full HD, with dimensions of 1920 x 1080 pixels. It also offers a maximum video frame rate of 60fps. However, the camera lacks built-in time-lapse functionality.

Considering today’s market, the Full HD resolution and 60fps frame rate are adequate for casual users but may fall short for professionals or enthusiasts seeking higher resolutions or smoother frame rates. Many modern cameras now offer 4K resolution and higher frame rates, surpassing the video capabilities of the Lumix DMC GF2.

The Lumix DMC GF2’s video capabilities are suitable for everyday use but may not meet the needs of those seeking advanced video features. Its score of 56/100 reflects the camera’s limitations in a competitive market.

Video
ⓘ
Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video.
Yes
Max video resolution
ⓘ
The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video.
Full HD
Max video format
ⓘ
Video resolution measured by the greatest number of pixels possible in each frame, width by height. A higher resolution means more detail or clarity in your video.
1920 x 1080
Max video frame rate
ⓘ
How many frames per second your video will capture. Most cameras have options for multiple frame rates, depending on the resolution you shoot in. For a general video, 24p or 30p is the standard, but more serious filmmakers may need a higher frame rate for creative effect.
60 fps
Timelapse built in
ⓘ
A built in time-lapse mode will allow continuous shooting throughout a prolonged period of time to be compressed into a sped up video.
No
Video file format
ⓘ
Different cameras can record in various video file formats. The File format you record in can impact how you edit and use the files.
Motion JPG, AVCHD, PAL

Features

49/100
About the Features

The Panasonic Lumix DMC GF2 receives a feature score of 49/100. This score reflects the camera’s specifications and how they compare to other models on the market. The camera has a screen size of 3 inches, with a resolution of 460,000 dots. The screen is a touchscreen, which allows for easy navigation and control.

However, the GF2 lacks a flip screen, GPS, WIFI, and Bluetooth capabilities. These missing features may put the camera at a disadvantage compared to other models with more advanced technology. The absence of a flip screen limits the camera’s versatility, while the lack of GPS, WIFI, and Bluetooth means that users cannot easily share or transfer photos and videos.

Despite these limitations, the Panasonic Lumix DMC GF2 is a solid camera for those looking for a simple, easy-to-use option. Its touchscreen and decent screen resolution make it a suitable choice for basic photography needs. However, for users seeking advanced features and connectivity options, other models may be more suitable.

Builtin flash
ⓘ
A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it.
Yes
External flash
ⓘ
External flashes are often connected through a hot shoe at the top of a camera, or a cable at the side of the camera.
Yes
GPS
ⓘ
GPS features in a camera will include location metadata to each of your photographs.
No
Weather sealing
ⓘ
Weather sealing capabilities will give you more confidence when shooting in unfavourable conditions.
No
Screen typeTFT LCD
Touch screen
ⓘ
Touchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons.
Yes
Screen size3"
Screen dots
ⓘ
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
4600001150001500000
Flip screen
ⓘ
A flip screen (or articulating screen) is a second screen which can flip out from the side or top of the camera. This rotating screen allows you more freedom to take photos at different angles.
No
Live view
ⓘ
Live View feature allows you to see a continuous live video of what is being seen through your lens.
Yes
Wi-Fi
ⓘ
Built-in Wi-Fi allows you to connect your camera and share images wirelessly.
No
Bluetooth
ⓘ
Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices.
No

Storage & Battery

16/100
About the Storage & Battery

The Panasonic Lumix DMC GF2 receives a storage and battery score of 16/100. This camera has one memory card slot, which accepts SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards. In the current market, this is a common and widely compatible storage option. However, the camera’s battery life is limited to 300 shots per charge, powered by a DMW-BLD10 battery. Additionally, the GF2 does not support USB charging.

Considering these specifications, the camera’s storage and battery capabilities are not exceptional when compared to other modern cameras. Although the memory card compatibility is standard, the battery life and lack of USB charging may be limiting factors for users seeking extended usage and flexibility.

Memory cardSD / SDHC / SDXC
Dual memory card slotsNo
Battery typeDMW-BLD10
Battery life
ⓘ
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
300 shots1505000
USB chargingNo