The Panasonic Lumix S5II and Panasonic Lumix S5IIX were both announced at CES on 4th January 2023. The two cameras have a lot in common, but the S5IIX has a few extra features that may appeal to dedicated videographers. However, it’s not slated to go on sale until mid-May 2023 whereas the S5II went on sale in January 2023. With that in mind, we’re going to compare the key features of the two cameras and pull out their differences.
Sensor
- Panasonic Lumix S5II: 24.2MP full-frame (35.6×23.8mm) CMOS sensor
- Panasonic Lumix S5IIX: 24.2MP full-frame (35.6×23.8mm) CMOS sensor
Both cameras, the S5II and the S5IIX, are equipped with the same 24.2MP full-frame sensor and processing engine, implying that, all else being equal, the image quality should be identical.
The sensor, while not new, has been further developed to include phase-detection pixels as part of the hybrid focusing system. This makes the S5II and S5IIX the first Panasonic Lumix cameras to incorporate phase detection focusing.
Video
- 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 Lumix S5IIX: 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
When it comes to video specifications, both cameras are identical, offering 4:2:0 10-bit 6K (3:2) and 5.9K (16:9) recording at 30fps, and 4:2:2 C4K and 4K at up to 60fps. However, only the Lumix S5IIX is equipped to directly record 5.8K Apple ProRes footage to an SSD or Atmos device via HDMI or USB, and supports ALL-Intra recording (C4K, 4K or 3.3K at 800Mbps (USB-SSD), 600Mbps or 400Mbps). Moreover, Panasonic recently announced the S5IIX’s upcoming capability to record Blackmagic Raw (BRaw) footage to a Blackmagic Video Assist recorder.
Unlike the S5II, the S5IIX also provides both wired and wireless IP streaming and USB tethering.
In Slow & Quick mode, the S5XII boasts additional features compared to the S5II, with the ability to record C4K 4:2:2 or 4:2:0 10-bit video at 1-60 fps (up to 30p), and 4K 4:2:2 10-bit. The S5II, on the other hand, is only capable of 4:2:0 10-bit C4K at similar rates.
Switching to Full HD in Slow & Quick mode, the S5II is limited to 4:2:0 10-bit at 1-180 fps (up to 60p), whereas the S5IIX can capture in 4:2:2 10-bit colour at the same frame rates.
Panasonic intends to release a firmware update for the S5II, which would allow users to purchase an upgrade for raw video output. This paid upgrade will only activate Raw recording options to Atomos or Blackmagic devices and will not unlock other features exclusive to the S5IIX, such as ProRes recording, All-Intra recording, USB-SSD recording, wireless IP streaming, USB Tethering to smartphones, and wired IP streaming.
Build
- Panasonic Lumix S5II: 134.3 x 102.3 x 90.1mm, 740g (body, hot shoe cover, battery and SD card)
- Panasonic Lumix S5IIX: 134.3 x 102.3 x 90.1mm, 740g (body, hot shoe cover, battery and SD card)
Constructed from magnesium alloy with weather seals for dust and moisture protection, both cameras share the same control layout. However, the S5IIX stands out with its matte black finish, grey control markings, and a black Panasonic logo for discretion.
Price
- Panasonic Lumix S5II: $1,999 / €2,199 / £1,999
- Panasonic Lumix S5IIX: $2,199 / €2,499 / £2,299
While the S5XII offers more features, it comes with a price tag higher by $200 / €300 / £300. Those interested in advanced video functionality will have to wait until mid-May to purchase the S5IIX.
Details regarding the additional features that the paid upgrade for the Lumix S5II will offer are yet to be disclosed.
Pretty sure the S5IIX has the streaming function and NOT the S5II which is what you’re paying for.
Swap that part in your review or you’ll have a lot of people coming back blaming you for purchasing the wrong camera.
Good spot, thanks.