Panasonic officially announced the Panasonic LUMIX S5IIX at CES 2023.
Alongside the LUMIX S5IIX, Panasonic also announced the LUMIX S5II. Both of these compact mirrorless cameras build on the success of the original LUMIX S5. However, the more advanced S5IIX offers a number of additional professional video features. This is what sets the LUMIX S5IIX apart as our pick for the best mirrorless camera prize.
Let’s see what the Panasonic LUMIX S5IIX has to offer.
Shared features
Both the S5II and the S5IIX feature a new 24.2MP CMOS sensor and L2 technology image engine. With twice the processing speed of the LUMIX S5, these new cameras can capture video at resolutions up to 6K at up to 30 frames per second. For stills shooting, the cameras support burst shooting at up to 30 fps. High frame rate recording is also supported at up to 120 fps in 4K or 180 fps in 1080.
Additionally, both the S5II and the S5IIX offer enhanced 4-channel audio and external mic support along with Active IS image stabilization. Panasonic also added new phase hybrid autofocus with 779 focus points, which promises to improve subject tracking. Plus, both cameras offer dual SD card slots.
Image quality
As for image quality, both cameras promise more than 14 stops of dynamic range in V-Log and offer real-time LUT application. The S5II and S5IIX also feature enhanced dual-native ISO for improved low-light performance. In addition, both cameras can record 10-bit 4:2:2 video in UHD or 4K.
Why the LUMIX S5IIX stands out
Here’s where the cameras start to differ. The LUMIX S5IIX supports RAW video output out of the box, but this functionality is available as an optional upgrade for the S5 II. The S5 II X also supports USB-SSD recording along with ALL-Intra and ProRes recording. In terms of connectivity, the S5IIX supports wireless and wired IP streaming.
Design-wise, the camera is the first LUMIX camera to feature a blacked-out body.
Pricing and availability
The Panasonic LUMIX S5IIX is priced at around $2,200. Currently available for pre-order, it is expected to start shipping at the end of May 2023. The S5II is priced at $2,000 and will begin shipping at the end of January 2023. For more information, visit lumixs5ii.com.
