Panasonic LUMIX S5IIX Full Frame Mirrorless Camera, 6K/4K 10-bit Unlimited Recording, Phase Hybrid AF, Apple ProRes RAW & BRAW via HDMI, USB-SSD Recording, 5-Axis Dual I.S. - Body only

Product Information

There are a host of other video assist features in Lumix cameras, not specific to the S5II X, which is a strength of this system. Including professionally recognized tools such as waveform monitoring, anamorphic lens de-squeezing in camera, luminance spot metering, histogram, and more, make these cameras ideal for video creators. The LUMIX S5IIX features a 24.2MP full-frame sensor. If you are shooting stills, 24MP delivers highly detailed shots, with enough resolution for moderate cropping and for online display or small-to-medium-sized prints. Given the number of similarities between the Lumix S5II and S5IIX, it may not be easy to choose the best camera for your needs. That is unless you specifically need streaming, SSD recording or more advanced video recording capabilities, then the choice is simple, go for the S5II X. Seasoned videographers likely won’t need a kit lens, but if you’re new to the Lumix S system, the 20-60mm is a barely satisfactory lens to get started. It’s pleasingly sharp and has a versatile zoom range for video production. However, its modest F3.5-5.6 maximum aperture can be limiting in lower light if you don’t have an artificial source, so I’d recommend something a little faster.

Panasonic Lumix S5II: full-sensor internal 4:2:0 10-bit 6K (3:2) and 5.9K (16:9) footage at 30fps, 4:2:2 C4K and 4K at up to 60fps Panasonic's rivals have increasingly added 10-bit capture capability in this class, but the S5 II goes beyond these with a range of support tools and features that aren't as commonplace amongst the competition, so far. As well as offering external recording of full-frame 5.9K (16:9) 5888×3312 12-bit 29.97p, 23.98p or 25p footage, the S5IIX can record to an external device from an APS-C section of its sensor in 4.1K (17:9) 4128×2176 12-bit at 59.94p, 29.97p, 23.98p, 50p or 25p, or in 3.5K (4:3) 3536×2656 12-bit 29.97p, 23.98p, 50p or 25p.

For video, I tend to shoot mostly within the Like709 color profile, as that gives me a consistent look in terms of contrast and colour in most shooting scenarios. But another great feature of the S5II and S5IIX is the ability to load LUTs into the camera and actually record your videos and photos with your own specific look. RealTime LUT can be a decent time saver for some people, especially those who shoot in their own environment with the same lighting setup and just want their finished look captured in camera. You can also preview LUTs, with V-log view assist, so you can capture your content flat, while previewing what it will look like with your look-up table of choice.

Thanks to a built-in fan, the S5II and S5IIX offer unlimited recording at 4K/60p and 30 minutes at 6K/30P. I experienced no overheating issues during testing, shooting 6K/30p up to the 30 minute limit and then 4K/60p until the battery ran out. Fan noise wasn’t noticeable either, so shouldn’t cause issues for mics mounted on or nearby the camera. Panasonic Lumix S5IIX review: Battery lifeWhat there aren't, though, are better videography cameras out there (unless you step up to a cinema camera). So if you're happy with a capable stills body because what you really want are blow-away video features, the S5 IIX is your camera. If the Panasonic Lumix S5 IIX isn't for you Motion pictures with 72Mbps or less: SD memory card with SD Speed Class with Class 10 or Video Speed Class 10 or higher The camera delivers up to 6.5 stops of in-body image stabilization meaning you can shoot stills and video in lower light without a tripod. (Image credit: James Artaius) With a new imaging engine developed within the L 2 Technology partnership formed by LEICA and LUMIX, and a new 24-megapixel sensor, the LUMIX S5II and S5IIX are the first LUMIX cameras to offer Hybrid Phase Detection Auto-Focus (PDAF). Like the original S5, the S5IIX is far from small and fiddly. It’s grip is reasonably chunky and it feels comfortable in the hand. It’s also good to know that the camera body frame is made from die-cast magnesium alloy and it’s sealed against dust and moisture ingress. However, it will be interesting to see how the fan vents cope with rain.