Panasonic S5II vs A7IV Why Should You Switch From A7IV

When we talk about The Panasonic S5II vs A7 IV are both full-frame mirrorless cameras that target professional photographers and videographers.

Both cameras offer a range of features and capabilities that make them suitable for various types of photography and videography applications. Here’s a detailed comparison of the two cameras to help you decide which one to choose.

What Are Differences Between Panasonic S5II vs A7IV?

Panasonic S5 II and Sony A7 IV are widely used by professionals and enthusiasts. While both cameras have some similarities, they also have some significant differences. Here are some of the key differences between the two:

• Sensor: The Sony A7 IV features a 33-megapixel full-frame BSI CMOS sensor, while the Panasonic S5 II has a 24-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor. While the Sony A7 IV has a higher resolution sensor, the Panasonic S5 II is capable of producing excellent images in low-light conditions.

• Autofocus: The Sony A7 IV features a more advanced autofocus system with 693 phase-detection autofocus points and 425 contrast-detection autofocus points, while the Panasonic S5 II has 225 autofocus points. This makes the Sony A7 IV a better option for sports and action photography.

• Video: Both cameras are capable of shooting high-quality video, but the Panasonic S5 II has a few more video features that may make it a better choice for videographers. For example, the S5 II can shoot 4K video at 60fps and has 10-bit 4:2:0 internal recording.

• Image stabilization: Both cameras have in-body image stabilization (IBIS), but the Panasonic S5 II has a more advanced system that is capable of up to 6.5 stops of stabilization. The Sony A7 IV is capable of up to 5.5 stops of stabilization.

• Size and weight: The Panasonic S5 II is smaller and lighter than the Sony A7 IV. This can make it a more convenient option for travel or on-the-go photography.

One key difference between the two systems is that the Panasonic Lumix S5 II’s IBIS system is able to work in conjunction with lens-based optical image stabilization (OIS) systems in compatible lenses, whereas the Sony Alpha A7 IV does not have this capability.

What Are Similarities Between Limix S5II vs A7IV?

• Both cameras offer high image quality and versatility in a compact form factor.

• They both have weather-sealed bodies that can withstand harsh environmental conditions.

• They both feature in-body image stabilization, which allows for sharper images in low light conditions or when using slower shutter speeds.

• They both offer 4K video recording at up to 60 frames per second, with advanced video features such as focus peaking, zebra patterns, and log gamma curves.

• They both have high-resolution electronic viewfinders and tilting touchscreens that make it easy to compose shots from a variety of angles.

• They both have fast and accurate autofocus systems that can track moving subjects.

Of course, it’s worth noting that the Panasonic S5II and Sony A7III also have their own unique features and strengths, so the choice between the two will ultimately depend on your specific needs and preferences.

Lumix S5 II Specs

• 24.2-megapixel full-frame sensor
• 5-axis in-body image stabilization
• 96MP High-Res Mode
• 14-bit RAW files
• 4K/60p video
• Dual SD card slots

Sony A7 IV Specs

• 33-megapixel full-frame sensor
• 5-axis in-body image stabilization
• 15-stop dynamic range
• 10-bit 4:2:2 recording
• 4K/60p video
• Dual SD card slots

Design and Handling

The Panasonic Lumix S5 II features a compact and lightweight design, making it easy to handle and carry around. The camera features a rugged construction that is built to withstand harsh weather conditions, making it ideal for outdoor photography.

The Sony A7 IV, on the other hand, has a slightly larger and heavier design, but it feels more substantial in the hand. It also has a weather-sealed body, which means it can withstand tough shooting conditions.

Both cameras have well-placed buttons and dials that provide quick access to essential settings. However, the Sony A7 IV has a more extensive range of customizable buttons, which allows users to tailor the camera’s controls to their shooting style.

Screen

The Panasonic S5 II features a 3.0-inch, 1.84-million-dot free-angle LCD touchscreen display. The screen is designed to be bright and clear, making it easy to compose shots and review images and videos.

The touchscreen functionality allows for easy navigation of the camera’s menu system, and the free-angle design allows for flexibility in shooting from different angles.

Additionally, the S5 II’s screen is designed to be durable and resistant to scratches and other types of damage. It features a tempered glass protector and a coating that helps prevent fingerprints and other smudges.

So, the Panasonic S5 II’s screen performance is considered to be very good, providing a clear and detailed view of your images and videos, with responsive touchscreen controls for easy operation.

The LCD touchscreen display on the Sony a7 IV is rumored to be a 3.0-inch tilting display with a resolution of 1.44 million dots. This should provide users with a high-quality, clear image that is easy to see in different lighting conditions.

the display is expected to have touch functionality, which will make it much easier to navigate the camera’s menu and adjust settings. This is a significant improvement over the a7 III, which did not have a touchscreen display.

Another advantage of the a7 IV’s LCD touchscreen display is its ability to tilt, allowing users to shoot from a variety of angles. This is particularly useful when taking photos or videos from low or high angles.

The Sony a7 IV’s LCD touchscreen display is also expected to have improved durability and weather resistance, which means it should be able to withstand tough shooting conditions.

It is rumored to have an anti-reflective coating, which should reduce glare and make it easier to see the display in bright sunlight.

the LCD touchscreen display on the Sony a7 IV is expected to be a significant upgrade from its predecessor, the a7 III. With improved resolution, touch functionality, and durability, it should make using the camera a more enjoyable and efficient experience.

Viewfinder

The Panasonic Lumix S5 II features a 2.36 million-dot OLED electronic viewfinder with a 0.74x magnification. The viewfinder offers 100% frame coverage and has a fast refresh rate of 120fps, making it a great option for shooting fast-moving subjects.

The viewfinder also features a built-in eye sensor that automatically switches between the viewfinder and the rear LCD screen when you put your eye up to the viewfinder or take it away.

Whereas The Sony Alpha a7 IV based on leaked specifications, it is expected to feature a high-resolution 5.76 million-dot OLED electronic viewfinder with a 0.78x magnification.

This viewfinder is likely to offer 100% frame coverage and a fast refresh rate, which will make it ideal for shooting high-speed action and fast-moving subjects.

In terms of viewfinders, both the Panasonic S5 II and the Sony a7 IV are likely to offer high-quality electronic viewfinders that are suitable for professional-level photography.

The Panasonic S5 II has already been released and has received positive reviews for its viewfinder, while the Sony A7 IV is highly anticipated by photographers who are eager to see what the new camera has to offer.

EVF

The Panasonic S5 II features a 2.36 million-dot OLED electronic viewfinder (EVF) with a 0.74x magnification. The EVF has a 120fps refresh rate and a 0.005-second lag time, which makes it responsive and smooth, making it easy to track fast-moving subjects.

The EVF also offers a wide viewing angle, which is helpful for composing shots at odd angles. the S5 II’s EVF has a customizable layout, allowing users to adjust the display of various shooting parameters such as histogram, level gauge, and other useful information.

Whereas, The Sony A7 IV features a high-resolution 9.44 million-dot OLED electronic viewfinder with a 0.9x magnification.

The EVF offers a large and bright image, making it easy to accurately compose shots and focus. The EVF has a 240fps refresh rate and a 0.5-second lag time, which makes it incredibly responsive and smooth.

the A7 IV’s EVF has a customizable display, which allows users to choose which shooting parameters they want to see, including real-time histogram, level gauge, and other information.

Sensor

The Panasonic Lumix S5 II features a 24.2-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor, which produces high-quality images with accurate colors and excellent dynamic range.

Whereas, The Sony A7 IV has a 33-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor that delivers excellent image quality with exceptional detail and color accuracy.

Autofocus

The Panasonic Lumix S5 II features a highly advanced autofocus system that uses artificial intelligence to track and detect subjects.

It has a total of 225 autofocus points that cover almost the entire frame, making it easier to track and capture moving subjects. It also features a high-speed AF that can capture up to 7 frames per second in continuous shooting mode.

The Sony A7 IV has an advanced autofocus system that uses 693 phase-detection points that cover 93% of the frame. The camera also features real-time Eye-AF and Animal-AF, making it easier to track and capture moving subjects. It can shoot up to 10 frames per second in continuous shooting mode.

Video capabilities

The Panasonic Lumix S5 II has excellent video capabilities, with the ability to shoot 4K/60p video at 10-bit 4:2:0 or 10-bit 4:2:2.

The camera also features V-Log recording, which provides more significant dynamic range and color grading flexibility. It also has a range of other video-related features, including anamorphic shooting and slow-motion video.

The Sony A7 IV is also an excellent camera for video, with the ability to shoot 4K/60p video at 10-bit 4:2:2. It also features S-Log3 and HLG for better dynamic range and color grading.

The camera also has a range of other video-related features, including a vari-angle LCD screen, slow-motion video, and 4K HDR recording.

Shutter

Panasonic S5II features a mechanical shutter that can shoot at speeds of up to 1/8000th of a second. Additionally, it has an electronic shutter that can shoot at speeds of up to 1/32000th of a second, allowing for high-speed capture of fast-moving subjects.

The camera also has a silent mode, which uses the electronic shutter and is completely silent, making it useful for shooting in quiet environments or when you don’t want to disturb your subject.

Whereas, The Sony A7IV features a mechanical shutter that can shoot at speeds of up to 1/8000th of a second, and an electronic shutter that can shoot at speeds of up to 1/32000th of a second.

The camera also features a silent shooting mode, which uses the electronic shutter and is completely silent, making it ideal for shooting in quiet environments or when you don’t want to draw attention to yourself.

Both cameras also offer various other shutter features such as Bulb mode, which allows for long exposures, and a Self-Timer mode, which allows you to delay the shutter release by a set amount of time.

So, both cameras offer a multi-exposure mode that allows you to take multiple exposures and combine them into a single image, as well as a bracketing mode that allows you to take multiple shots at different exposure values for HDR photography.

ISO

The Panasonic S5II has a native ISO range of 100-51200, which can be extended up to 204800. The camera features a Dual Native ISO technology that allows for better noise reduction and dynamic range performance, especially in low-light situations.

The Dual Native ISO works by using two separate circuits to read out the signals from the sensor, resulting in reduced noise at both high and low ISOs.

On the other hand, the Sony A7IV has a native ISO range of 100-51200, which can be extended up to 204800. The camera also features an improved image processing engine and a back-illuminated CMOS sensor that works together to provide better noise reduction and dynamic range performance at higher ISO settings.

Both cameras have similar ISO features and offer great performance in low-light conditions. However, the Panasonic S5II’s Dual Native ISO technology provides an advantage in reducing noise at high and low ISO settings. Meanwhile, the Sony A7IV’s improved image processing engine and sensor also provide excellent performance at higher ISOs.

Image Quality

It’s difficult to definitively say which camera has better image quality without directly comparing them under specific shooting conditions both cameras have advanced image processing systems and produce high-quality images.

the S5 II produces high-quality images that are suitable for a wide range of applications, from portraits to landscapes to action photography.

In comparison the back-illuminated sensor design in the A7 IV helps to improve low-light performance, and the autofocus system is fast and accurate.

Tracking

Both cameras have advanced autofocus and subject tracking capabilities, Lumix S5 II features a High-Speed AF system with DFD (Depth from Defocus) technology, which allows it to achieve focus in as little as 0.08 seconds.

It also has an advanced subject recognition system that can detect and track human faces and eyes, as well as animals, including dogs, cats, and birds.

Lumix S5II has a 5-axis Dual I.S. II (Image Stabilization) system that provides up to 6.5 stops of compensation, making it easier to capture sharp images and video even in low light situations or when shooting handheld.

On the other hand, the Sony Alpha A7 IV boasts a powerful hybrid autofocus system with 759 phase-detection points covering 94% of the image sensor.

It also has an advanced real-time Eye AF and real-time Tracking features that can accurately track moving subjects, including people and animals.

Furthermore, the camera has a high-speed continuous shooting mode of up to 10 frames per second with full autofocus and exposure tracking, making it ideal for capturing fast-moving action.

Both cameras offer advanced autofocus and subject tracking capabilities that make them ideal for capturing fast-moving action and wildlife photography.

Image Stabilization

The Panasonic Lumix S5 II features a 5-axis in-body image stabilization (IBIS) system that compensates for camera shake in both stills and video modes.

It provides up to 6.5 stops of compensation when used with compatible Lumix S series lenses. The system works by detecting camera movement and then moving the image sensor to compensate for that movement.

This helps to ensure sharp and clear images, even in low light or when using longer shutter speeds.

Whereas, The Sony Alpha A7 IV features a 5-axis in-body image stabilization system that compensates for camera shake in both stills and video modes.

It provides up to 5.5 stops of compensation when used with compatible E-mount lenses. The system works similarly to the Panasonic system, by detecting camera movement and moving the image sensor to compensate for that movement.

Both cameras have advanced 5-axis in-body image stabilization systems that help to produce sharp and clear images, even in low light or when using longer shutter speeds.

Exposure Compensation

The Panasonic S5 II and Sony A7 IV offer advanced exposure compensation features. The S5 II offers exposure compensation up to ±5 EV (in 1/3 or 1/2 EV steps).

It has a dedicated exposure compensation dial on the top of the camera that allows you to quickly and easily adjust exposure compensation without having to dive into the menu system.

The S5 II also offers a Highlight Weighted mode that can be used in conjunction with exposure compensation to help preserve highlight details in high-contrast scenes.

Whereas, The A7 IV offers exposure compensation up to ±5 EV (in 1/3, 1/2, or 1 EV steps). It has a separate exposure compensation dial that can be customized to control other settings, such as ISO or shutter speed.

The A7 IV also has a “Auto Exposure Shift” feature that can automatically adjust the exposure compensation setting based on the scene and subject, making it easier to get the right exposure in challenging lighting conditions.

In terms of exposure compensation capabilities, both the Panasonic S5 II and Sony A7 IV offer similar ranges and precision.

However, the dedicated exposure compensation dial on the S5 II and the customizable dial on the A7 IV may appeal to different types of photographers depending on their shooting style and preferences.

Storage

The Panasonic S5 II features dual SD memory card slots. Both slots support UHS-II SD cards, which offer faster read and write speeds than standard UHS-I cards.

With UHS-II SD cards, the S5 II can shoot burst photos at up to 7 frames per second in RAW+JPEG format.

In terms of video, the S5 II supports 4K video recording up to 60 frames per second, as well as 10-bit 4:2:2 internal recording.

When recording 4K video, the S5 II can use both memory card slots for simultaneous backup recording or relay recording. It also supports unlimited recording time, which means you can record continuously as long as your memory cards have space.

Whereas, The Sony A7 IV features dual SD memory card slots. However, unlike the Panasonic S5 II, the A7 IV supports both SD and CFexpress Type A memory cards, which offer even faster read and write speeds than UHS-II SD cards.

CFexpress Type A cards can be used in either memory card slot, while SD cards can only be used in the first slot.

With CFexpress Type A cards, the A7 IV can shoot burst photos at up to 10 frames per second in RAW+JPEG format.

The camera also supports 4K video recording up to 60 frames per second, and offers 10-bit 4:2:2 internal recording like the S5 II. Like the S5 II, the A7 IV can use both memory card slots for backup recording or relay recording when shooting video.

Overall, both the Panasonic S5 II and the Sony A7 IV offer fast memory card options for both photo and video shooting.

The Sony A7 IV has the added advantage of supporting CFexpress Type A cards, which can offer even faster read and write speeds than UHS-II SD cards.

Battery

The Lumix S5 II uses a DMW-BLK22 battery, which is a 7.2V 2200mAh rechargeable lithium-ion battery.

• Long battery life: The S5 II’s battery has a CIPA-rated battery life of up to 470 shots per charge. This means you can take hundreds of photos on a single charge.

• USB charging: The S5 II’s battery can be charged using a USB-C cable, which makes it convenient to charge the camera while you’re on the go.

• Battery grip option: The S5 II can be used with the optional DMW-BGS5 battery grip, which can hold an extra battery and provide longer shooting time.

Sony Alpha A7 IV Battery Features:

The Sony Alpha A7 IV uses an NP-FZ100 battery, which is a 7.2V 2280mAh rechargeable lithium-ion battery.

• Long battery life: The A7 IV’s battery has a CIPA-rated battery life of up to 670 shots per charge, which is significantly higher than the S5 II.

• USB charging: The A7 IV’s battery can be charged using a USB-C cable, which makes it convenient to charge the camera while you’re on the go.

• Battery grip option: The A7 IV can be used with the optional VG-C4EM battery grip, which can hold two extra batteries and provide longer shooting time.

Overall, both the Panasonic Lumix S5 II and Sony Alpha A7 IV offer good battery life and USB charging options. However, the A7 IV’s battery has a higher capacity and longer battery life, which may be an advantage for some photographers.

Additionally, the A7 IV’s battery grip can hold two extra batteries, which makes it an attractive option for photographers who need to shoot for extended periods of time.

Ports

Lumix S5II Ports

The S5 II supports USB Power Delivery (PD), which means that it can be charged using a USB-C power adapter.

the USB Type-C port allows for high-speed data transfer and charging also can be used to tether the camera to a computer for remote shooting and control.

• HDMI Type-A port: The S5 II features a full-sized HDMI port that supports 4K/60p output for high-quality video playback. This port can also be used to connect the camera to an external monitor or recorder for more advanced video workflows.

3.5mm microphone and headphone jacks: The S5 II features both a microphone and headphone jack for audio recording and monitoring.

The microphone jack allows for the use of an external microphone for improved audio quality, while the headphone jack allows for real-time audio monitoring during recording.

Sony A7 IV Ports

• USB Type-C port: Like the S5 II, the A7 IV features a USB Type-C port for high-speed data transfer and charging. The A7 IV also supports USB Power Delivery for charging using a USB-C power adapter.

• HDMI Type-A port: The A7 IV also features a full-sized HDMI port that supports 4K/60p output. This port can be used to connect the camera to an external monitor or recorder for more advanced video workflows.

3.5mm microphone and headphone jacks: The A7 IV features both a microphone and headphone jack, just like the S5 II. The microphone jack allows for the use of an external microphone for improved audio quality, while the headphone jack allows for real-time audio monitoring during recording.

• Multi Interface Shoe: The A7 IV features a Multi Interface Shoe (MI Shoe) which allows for the use of compatible accessories such as external microphones or video lights. The MI Shoe also supports digital audio for improved sound quality.

In summary, both the Panasonic S5 II and Sony A7 IV offer a range of ports for connecting to other devices and accessories.

The key differences are that the Sony A7 IV features a Multi Interface Shoe for compatible accessories, and that the Panasonic S5 II supports HDMI output up to 4K/60p.

Price

The Panasonic Lumix S5 II is currently priced at around $1999 for the body only, making it an affordable option for a full-frame camera.

The Sony A7 IV is expected to be priced higher than the Lumix S5.

Which Camera is Better For Photography?

Both the Panasonic Lumix S5 II and Sony Alpha A7 IV are excellent cameras for photography, but the better camera for you would depend on your specific needs and preferences.

In terms of sensor resolution, the Sony A7 IV has a higher resolution sensor compared to the Panasonic S5 II. The Sony A7 IV also has a higher dynamic range and supports 10-bit video recording, which may be important for some photographers and videographers.

On the other hand, the Panasonic S5 II has a 96MP high-resolution mode, which can be useful for still photography, and also has a slightly larger buffer for continuous shooting.

Overall, both cameras are capable and provide excellent image quality, so the choice between the two would come down to your personal preferences, shooting style, and the features that are most important to you.

Conclusion

In Conclusion, the Sony A7 IV is a better option for photographers who need a high-resolution sensor and a more advanced autofocus system, while the Panasonic S5 II is a better option for videographers who need more advanced video features and better image stabilization. Both cameras are excellent choices for different types of photography and videography.