The Panasonic Lumix GH5 II does not store shutter count in RW2 files — learn how to check via the camera menu, what actuation counts are acceptable when buying used, and how the GH5 II compares to the original GH5.
Check Shutter Count →The Panasonic Lumix GH5 II (2021) is an incremental but meaningful upgrade to the landmark GH5. It retains the 20.3 MP Micro Four Thirds sensor and IP53 weather sealing while adding phase-detection assist AF, a substantially better BLK22 battery, unlimited 4K/60p recording time, and improved live streaming. The mechanical shutter is rated at 200,000 actuations — identical to the original GH5.
Like all Panasonic Lumix cameras, the GH5 II does not embed the shutter count in RW2 RAW files. Dropping a GH5 II RW2 file into shuttercount.app will return EXIF metadata (camera model, lens, date, exposure settings) but not the actuation count.
| Model | Release | Sensor | Rated Shutter Life | RAW Format |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Panasonic Lumix GH5 II | 2021 | 20.3 MP M4/3 BSI MOS | 200,000 | RW2 |
| Panasonic Lumix GH5 (predecessor) | 2017 | 20.3 MP M4/3 | 200,000 | RW2 |
| Panasonic Lumix GH6 (successor) | 2022 | 25.2 MP M4/3 | 200,000 | RW2 |
| Panasonic Lumix GH7 (current gen) | 2024 | 25.2 MP M4/3 | 200,000 | RW2 |
exiftool -ShutterCount yourfile.RW2. Some GH5 II firmware versions embed a MakerNote shot count, though this is not guaranteed across all firmware revisions.The GH5 II is primarily a hybrid stills/video camera. Many used bodies have extremely low mechanical shutter counts because video recording does not increment the mechanical counter. A low count on a 3-year-old GH5 II body is normal and expected.
| Actuation Count | % of Rated Life | Assessment |
|---|---|---|
| 0 – 10,000 | 0 – 5 % | Very low use — near new |
| 10,000 – 50,000 | 5 – 25 % | Low use |
| 50,000 – 120,000 | 25 – 60 % | Moderate use — normal for active shooters |
| 120,000 – 170,000 | 60 – 85 % | High use — negotiate price |
| 170,000 + | 85 %+ | Near or past rated life |
The most practical improvements are the new BLK22 battery (roughly 800 shots vs 410 for the GH5's BLJ13), phase-detection assist AF for improved tracking, and the removal of recording time limits in 4K. The sensor, body dimensions, shutter rating, and weather sealing are unchanged. If you primarily shoot stills and own a stock of BLJ13 batteries, the upgrade benefit is smaller.
The GH5 II uses DFD (Depth From Defocus) contrast-detect AF with phase-detect assist — not a true on-sensor PDAF array. It is meaningfully better than the original GH5 for subject tracking, but lags behind systems like the GH6 or Sony A7 IV for fast-moving subjects. This does not affect shutter wear.
Beyond the shutter count, check: IBIS function (test 5-axis stabilisation with a slow shutter), all video modes (record a 4K/60p clip to confirm no overheating), both card slot doors, battery door condition, the USB-C port (used for streaming and power), and weather seal integrity around the ports and door hinges.
Yes. The GH5 II uses the same body dimensions, battery grip (DMW-BGG1H), and hotshoe accessories as the original GH5. The main exception is the battery: the GH5 II ships with the BLK22, which is not interchangeable with the GH5's BLJ13. Cages and L-brackets designed for the GH5 are generally compatible.