Panasonic Lumix S5 II Complete Review 2025 - Video Creator's Dream Machine
The Ultimate Hybrid Camera for Professional Video Creation & Photography
24.2MP
Full-Frame CMOS
4K 60p
Internal Recording
Phase Detect
Hybrid AF
$1,999
Professional Price
Introduction
The Panasonic Lumix S5 II represents a revolutionary leap in hybrid camera technology, combining exceptional video recording capabilities with outstanding still photography performance. Featuring a 24.2MP full-frame CMOS sensor, advanced phase-detection autofocus, and professional-grade video features including 4K 60p internal recording, this camera is designed for content creators, videographers, and photographers who demand the highest quality and versatility from their equipment.
Key Specifications
Sensor & Image Quality
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Sensor: 24.2MP Full-Frame CMOS
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Sensor Size: 35.6 x 23.8mm
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ISO Range: 100-51200 (Ext. 50-204800)
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Resolution: 6000 x 4000 Pixels
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Stabilization: 5-Axis In-Body IS
Video Capabilities
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4K Video: 4K 60p Internal Recording
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Format: MOV/MP4 (H.264/H.265)
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Recording Time: No Time Limit
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Audio: XLR Mic Adapter Compatible
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Profiles: V-Log L, HLG, Standard
Autofocus System
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AF System: Phase Detection Hybrid AF
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AF Points: 779 Areas
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Detection: Human/Animal Eye Detection
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Speed: 0.03 sec AF acquisition
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Tracking: Real-time Recognition
Build & Connectivity
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Weight: 714g (Body Only)
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Weather Sealing: Dust/Splash Resistant
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Connectivity: Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.0
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Ports: USB-C, HDMI, 3.5mm Mic
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Storage: Dual SD Card Slots
Display & Controls
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LCD: 3.0" Vari-Angle Touch Screen
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Viewfinder: 2.36M-dot OLED EVF
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Battery: DMW-BLK22 (2200mAh)
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Charging: USB-C PD Charging
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Mount: Leica L-Mount
Complete Specifications Overview
| Sensor & Image Quality | |
| Sensor Type | 24.2MP Full-Frame CMOS |
| Sensor Size | 35.6 x 23.8mm |
| Maximum Resolution | 6000 x 4000 Pixels |
| ISO Sensitivity | 100-51200 (Extended: 50-204800) |
| Image Stabilization | 5-Axis In-Body Image Stabilization |
| Effective Stabilization | Up to 6.5 stops |
| Video Recording | |
| 4K Video | 4K 60p Internal Recording |
| Video Format | MOV/MP4 (H.264/H.265) |
| Recording Time Limit | No Time Limit |
| Color Profiles | V-Log L, HLG, Standard |
| Audio Recording | Linear PCM, XLR Mic Adapter Compatible |
| Autofocus System | |
| AF System | Phase Detection Hybrid AF |
| AF Points | 779 Areas |
| AF Speed | 0.03 sec acquisition time |
| Subject Detection | Human/Animal Eye Detection |
| Tracking AF | Real-time Recognition |
| Display & Viewfinder | |
| LCD Screen | 3.0" Vari-Angle Touch Screen |
| LCD Resolution | 1,840,000 dots |
| Viewfinder Type | 2.36M-dot OLED EVF |
| Viewfinder Coverage | 100% frame coverage |
| Viewfinder Magnification | 0.74x (35mm equivalent) |
| Build & Connectivity | |
| Body Weight | 714g (Body Only) |
| Dimensions | 134.3 x 102.2 x 90.0mm |
| Weather Sealing | Dust/Splash Resistant |
| Wireless Connectivity | Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.0 |
| Storage | Dual SD Card Slots (UHS-II) |
| Battery & Power | |
| Battery Type | DMW-BLK22 (2200mAh) |
| Battery Life | 370 shots (CIPA standard) |
| Charging | USB-C PD Charging |
| External Power | AC Adapter Support |
| Lens Mount | Leica L-Mount |
Performance Analysis
The Panasonic Lumix S5 II delivers exceptional performance across all metrics with its advanced phase-detection autofocus system, professional video recording capabilities, and outstanding image quality that makes it ideal for both content creation and professional photography workflows.
DxOMark Score
Professional Grade
Video Performance
Internal Recording
AF Speed
Phase Detection
Video Performance
Photography Performance
Hybrid Camera System Analysis
The Panasonic Lumix S5 II excels as a hybrid camera system, offering professional-grade video recording capabilities alongside exceptional still photography performance. The advanced phase-detection autofocus system and unlimited recording time make it perfect for content creators and professionals.
Video Recording Excellence
Professional video recording capabilities with no time limits and exceptional quality.
- • 4K 60p internal recording with no time limit
- • V-Log L and HLG color profiles for flexibility
- • XLR mic adapter compatibility for pro audio
- • Advanced image stabilization for smooth footage
- • Real-time autofocus tracking for video
- • Professional codec support (H.264/H.265)
Photography Performance
24.2MP full-frame sensor with advanced autofocus for professional photography.
- • 24.2MP full-frame CMOS sensor
- • 779-area phase detection autofocus
- • Human/animal eye detection AF
- • 5-axis in-body image stabilization
- • ISO 100-51200 (extended 50-204800)
- • Weather-sealed magnesium alloy body
What's In The Box
Package Contents
- • Panasonic Lumix S5 II Camera Body
- • DMW-BLK22 Rechargeable Battery
- • USB-C Charging Cable
- • AC Adapter
- • Shoulder Strap
- • Body Cap & Hot Shoe Cover
- • Quick Start Guide & Manual
- • Warranty Card
Key Highlights
- • 24.2MP Full-Frame CMOS Sensor
- • 4K 60p Internal Video Recording
- • Phase Detection Hybrid Autofocus
- • 5-Axis In-Body Image Stabilization
- • Leica L-Mount Lens Compatibility
- • V-Log L Color Profile Support
- • Weather-Sealed Construction
Pricing & Availability
Body Only
$1,999
Professional Camera Body
Kit with 24-70mm
$2,499
Complete Starter Kit
Availability & Offers
- • Available worldwide through authorized dealers
- • 2-year international warranty coverage
- • Trade-in programs available for existing cameras
- • Professional support and service network
- • Educational discounts available for students
Detailed Pros and Cons
What We Love
- Exceptional 4K 60p video recording with no time limit
- Advanced phase-detection autofocus system
- Professional video features (V-Log L, HLG)
- Excellent in-body image stabilization
- Weather-sealed magnesium alloy construction
- Dual SD card slots for backup recording
- XLR mic adapter compatibility
- Leica L-Mount lens ecosystem
Areas for Improvement
- Limited native L-Mount lens selection
- Battery life could be better for video work
- No built-in flash
- Menu system can be complex for beginners
- Higher price point than some competitors
- Rolling shutter in some video modes
Comparison with Competitors
How does the Panasonic Lumix S5 II compare against other professional cameras:
| Specifications | Panasonic Lumix S5 II | Sony A7 IV | Canon EOS R6 Mark II |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sensor Resolution | 24.2MP | 33MP | 20.1MP |
| Video Recording | 4K 60p Internal | 4K 60p Internal | 4K 60p Internal |
| Autofocus System | Phase Detection | Hybrid AF | Dual Pixel AF |
| Image Stabilization | 5-Axis IBIS | 5-Axis IBIS | 5-Axis IBIS |
| Recording Time Limit | No Limit | No Limit | No Limit |
| Current Price | $1,999 | $2,499 | $2,099 |
Complete Buying Guide
The Panasonic Lumix S5 II is perfect for content creators, videographers, and photographers who need professional-grade video recording capabilities alongside excellent still photography performance. It excels in video production, hybrid shooting, and professional workflows.
Who Should Buy This?
- • Professional videographers and filmmakers
- • Content creators and YouTubers
- • Hybrid photographers/videographers
- • Wedding and event photographers
- • Corporate video production teams
- • Photography enthusiasts seeking video capabilities
Recommended Accessories
- • Extra DMW-BLK22 batteries for extended shooting
- • High-speed SD cards (UHS-II recommended)
- • XLR mic adapter for professional audio
- • External monitor for video recording
- • Leica L-Mount lenses or adapters
- • Professional tripod and stabilizer
Final Verdict
The Panasonic Lumix S5 II stands as the ultimate video creator's dream machine, delivering exceptional 4K 60p recording capabilities with no time limits, advanced phase-detection autofocus, and professional-grade features. While it comes at a premium price, the combination of video excellence, photography performance, and hybrid capabilities makes it an outstanding choice for content creators and professionals who demand the best.