Panasonic GX85 Video Recording Limit: A Complete Guide

The Panasonic Lumix GX85 is a complete mirrorless camera that is renowned among videographers and photographers equally. However, it gives in-body stabilisation, 4K video recording and marvellous photo quality, but its video recording limit is the point of contention.

In this article, we’ll find out the video recording limits on the GX85, why they happen, and potential ways to enhance the video recording time.

Explanation Of Panasonic GX85 Video Recording Limit 

The Panasonic GX85 offers a video recording limit of 29 minutes and 59 seconds for the single shot while capturing in Full HD and 4k. Camera stops by default when the limit is reached, and you have to restart the recording manually.

This limit arises because of the numerous regulatory and technical reasons, including:

1. European Tax Regulations: In recent times, those cameras recording videos longer than 30 minutes were known as “video cameras” and imposed higher import taxes in Europe. Companies like Panasonic implemented this limit to save these costs.
2. Overheating Issues: longer video recording produces heat, and as the GX85 has no active cooling system, this limit helps to avoid expected damage from overheating.
3. File System: The camera uses FAT32 file system, which limits file sizes up to 4GB per file. At higher bitrates, this can be obtained under 30 minutes, making a recording limit compulsory.

Steps to Enhance The Video Recording Time

While the built-in limit is 30 minutes, there are some techniques to boost your video recording limits:

1. Restarting the Recording Manually

The simplest method is to manually restart recording as soon as the camera stops. This allows you to record multiple clips without major interruptions.

2. Using an External Recorder

For the continuous video recording, one can use an external HDMI recorder just like the Atomos Ninja V. The GX85 can give clean results in 4:2:2 8-bit HDMI video, that could be captured externally apart from the restrictions of 30 minutes.

3. Hacking the Firmware (Risky Option)

Some pro-level users have found out firmware hacks like GHack to erase the video recording limit. However, this hack can backfire sometimes, such as voiding the warranty or bricking your camera. One must be careful while using this technique..

4. Having a Cooling System

To avoid overheating, one can buy an external cooling fan or place the camera in an airy environment. This won’t eradicate the recording limit but will surely maintain quality over longer recording sessions.

Best Video Settings for Extended Recording

To utilize recording time and avoid overheating, you can use these recommended settings:

• Resolution: To reduce the file size and heat buildup, use 1080p at 30fps instead of 4K.
• Bitrate: Adopt a lower bitrate to reduce file size
• Battery: Use an AC adapter or dummy battery for extended use
• Storage: Use high-speed UHS-II SD cards to prevent buffering delays

Alternatives to Panasonic GX85 for Longer Recording

If you require a camera without the 30-minute recording limit/cap, you can have these alternatives:

1. Panasonic GH5 – No recording cap, 10-bit internal recording, superior video results.
2. Sony A7C – Unlimited recording time in 1080p with full-frame mirrorless.
3. Canon EOS R7 – No recording limit, best autofocus feature.
4. Fujifilm X-T4 – Unlimited video recording in Full HD, top-notch color science.

Conclusion

The Panasonic GX85 holds an excellent position for videographers seeking a tough and powerful mirrorless camera. On the one hand, the 29-minute 59-second recording cap/limit can be a disadvantage, various other ways, such as manual restarting, external recorders provide users to solve this limitation.

If unlimited recording time is needed for your assignments, you must invest in a camera that doesn’t impose this restriction.

By knowing the GX85’s recording limits and its techniques for limit removal, you can make a good choice and get the most amazing video recording experience..