Panasonic has added two new cameras to their Lumix S-Series lineup, the S1 II and S1 IIE. For anyone considering Panasonic’s full-frame system, here's how they compare to the popular S5 II and S5 IIX.
Coming to you from CVP, this thorough video breaks down key differences between Panasonic's latest cameras and their previous lineup. First, the video examines the S5 II and the S5 IIX models. Both cameras share a 24-megapixel sensor, color science, and excellent image stabilization. While the external appearances differ mainly in the "blackout" paint job of the S5 IIX, their internals vary significantly for video-focused users. The S5 IIX offers features like ProRes RAW output, internal All-Intra recording, and live-streaming capabilities—perfect if video is your main priority. But if your work leans mainly toward stills, saving £200 on the S5 II to invest in lenses could make better sense for you.
Next is the newer S1 IIE compared to the S5 IIX. Although both feature a similar 24-megapixel sensor, the newer S1 IIE offers significant upgrades. Physically, this model introduces design tweaks such as individual port covers, improved control dials, a front-record button, and a clever tilting LCD monitor, which allows enhanced viewing flexibility even when cable-access ports are occupied. It also upgrades storage by including a CFexpress Type B slot alongside an SD card slot, ideal for handling higher-quality internal ProRes recordings. Video creators benefit from built-in features such as internal ProRes and ProRes RAW recording (which the S5 IIX supports only externally). Additionally, the S1 IIE includes new features such as false color for correct video exposure and compatibility with Panasonic's XLR adapter for 32-bit audio capture.
The video goes further by exploring another variant, the S1 II, alongside the S1 IIE. These two newest releases differ primarily in sensor speed and capabilities. The S1 II’s partially stacked sensor enables faster electronic shutter speeds—this means you can capture faster burst photos up to 70 fps and higher-quality slow-motion footage up to 120 fps in 4K, noticeably quicker than the S1 IIE. Additionally, the S1 II possesses a dynamic range boost mode that expands the camera's versatility in tackling challenging lighting conditions, something not available on the S1 IIE. At $700 more, the video argues there's merit in investing a bit more in the S1 II for its flexibility, speed, and improved sensor performance.
Lastly, the video compares the S1 II with Panasonic’s new high-resolution model, the S1R II. With a substantial jump to a 44.3-megapixel sensor, the S1R II caters primarily to still image-makers who need the extra resolution. Despite its higher resolution, it lags the S1 II in sensor speed, dynamic range, and some video frame rate options. For photographers who occasionally shoot video, it provides compelling resolution advantages, yet hybrid shooters who prioritize video are likely better served by the lower-res but faster S1 II.
Ultimately, the ideal Panasonic camera for you depends on whether you need speed, resolution, versatility, or specialized video features. Check out the video above for the full rundown.
