Panasonic LUMIX S5II/S5IIX: A new phase of hybrid, mirrorless cameras
Posted on Jan 4, 2023 by Samara Husbands
The LUMIX S5II & S5IIX offer impressive quality and AF phase detection for ambitious content creators on the go
Wiesbaden, Germany
Panasonic’s latest releases has come to the fore. Two striking cameras are joined by a powerful lens. LUMIX S5IIX and LUMIX S5II mirrorless cameras have been engineered to for the most ambitious creators – at exceptionally good value for money.
Vitally, both cameras are built on the newly developed 24-megapixel 35mm full-frame CMOS sensor and imaging engine, which enables hybrid phase detection AF – a first for LUMIX cameras. You’ll get higher image quality and high bit-rate video performance, on par with the LUMIX S1H.
New standard of AF performance
Developed within the L2 Technology partnership between LEICA and LUMIX, the 24-megapixel sensor makes the S5II and S5IIX the first LUMIX cameras to offer Hybrid Phase Detection Auto-Focus (PDAF).
A problem plaguing photographers of this age is the camera’s capability to detects and captures target subjects in difficult conditions– from low light to backlighting. Panasonic has created a powerful pairing in combination with the Contrast Detect AF. Fast and dependable, these mirrorless cameras come with 79-area metering which tracks objects even with other moving objects in the frame. Unlike conventional camera lenses which require firmware update to make use of AF/zoom capabilities, continuous AF during zooming and AF micro adjustment are available.
Video functions and recording options
Two years from the release of the S5, a shiny new engine gives the new S5 versions video recording capabilities including internal 4:2:0 10-bit 6K (3:2) and 5.9K (16:9) at 30fps and 4:2:2 C4K and 4K at up to 60fps. Unlimited recording times stem from a new low-profile heat management system without increasing the size of the camera body. The cameras also support HFR recording at up to 120fps and Slow & Quick capture at up to 180fps.
5.8K Apple ProRes recording to SSD via HDMI or USB, and ALL-Intra Recording diversifies video options, while also supporting RAW output to Atomos. Wired and wireless IP streaming improve on the connectivity of the previous LUMIX S5 iterations, while functions like Waveform Monitor, Vector Scope and Zebra Pattern are added in response to requests from professional users.
LUMIX S5IIX - click to enlarge images
Clear photos and filming while walking?
‘Astounding’ photo and video performance, including high-speed burst shooting comes from a combination of powerful mechanical and electronic shutter. A 960megapixel High Resolution Mode (JPEG/RAW) and dual Native ISO sensitivity, which minimizes noise and a maximum ISO of 51200.
Image stabilisation has seen an upgrade in the S5II and S5IIX, enhancing handheld shooting in a range of conditions. Active I.S. is responsible for optimising horizontal, vertical and rotational correction, compensating as much as 200%2 compared to conventional stabilisation, particularly when using telephoto lenses or filming when walking.
One-person-crew friendly
For the lone wolf content creator, the LUMIX S5II and S5IIX offer a refined shooting experience – minimal workflow is required for top results. AWB Lock, MF Assist and new Live Crop function (which records video footage using the entire sensor surface) enables cropping of 4K and FHD images out afterwards, while 8-way joystick and touch-control monitor take the labour out of filming.
Class-leading reliability and connectivity?
Are the S5 cameras suitable to use in the field? Well, magnesium alloy die-cast front and rear frames complete with a splash- and dust-resistant construction suggest they are.
Connectivity has been improved overall since the LUMIX S5 was released. Full-size HDMI Type A terminal and high-speed USB 3.2 Gen 2, plus a cable lock holder to prevent unwanted unplugging joins 2.4GHz to provide fast and stable communication with mobile devices.
Future firmware
Panasonic has ensured the S5IIand S5IIX are future-proof, as users can upgrade performance with updates, adding a host of functions including RAW data output.
LUMIX S5II and S5IIX qualify for the LUMIX PRO program, developed to support users with a range of benefits.
S5II Images - click to enlarge
Price and availability
LUMIS S5IIX is available from Spring 2023 for £2,299 while the LUMIS S5II is available from Winter 2023 and priced at £1,999.
Both mirrorless cameras take interchangeable lenses and are compatible with the entire range of LUMIX S lenses, plus full-frame L-Mount system lenses.
Panasonic’s website has more information.
