Panasonic S5II vs S5 Which Camera is Better for Photography

Panasonic has recently released the Panasonic S5 II, which is an upgraded version of the Panasonic S5, with a few improvements such as a higher-resolution LCD screen, enhanced autofocus algorithms, and faster burst shooting capabilities.

the S5II is the successor to the original S5 so Panasonic S5II vs S5 are both full-frame mirrorless cameras from Panasonic both popular choices for photographers and videographers who want high-quality images and videos.

What Are Differences Between Panasonic S5II vs S5?

• Panasonic S5 II features 779 focus points while S5 features 225 focus points.
• The S5II has a five-axis in-body image stabilization system that offers 6.5 stops of shake reduction. The S5 also has IBIS, but it only provides 5 stops of shake reduction.

• Both cameras use Panasonic’s Depth from Defocus (DFD) autofocus system, but the S5II has an updated version that provides faster and more accurate autofocus performance.

• The S5II can shoot 4K video at up to 60 frames per second, while the S5 is limited to 4K/30fps.

• The S5II offers 4:2:2 10-bit internal recording in 4K, while the S5 only provides 4:2:0 10-bit internal recording.

• The S5II has a higher resolution LCD display than the S5. The S5II features a 2.36 million-dot OLED display, while the S5 has a 1.84 million-dot LCD display.

What Are Similarities Between S5II and S5?

• Both cameras feature a 24.2-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor.

• Both cameras use the same Venus Engine image processor, which provides fast processing speeds and improved image quality.

• Both cameras use a contrast-detect autofocus system with Panasonic’s Depth From Defocus technology.

• Both cameras can record 4K video at up to 60 frames per second and Full HD video at up to 180 frames per second.

• They both support 10-bit 4:2:2 internal recording and have V-Log/V-Gamut for improved color grading in post-production.

• Both cameras feature 5-axis in-body image stabilization that works with both Panasonic and non-Panasonic lenses.

• Both cameras have built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for easy transfer of images and remote control of the camera.

• Both cameras use the same DMW-BLK22 battery, which provides up to 470 shots per charge.

Body Ergonomics

When it comes to the design of the Panasonic S5 II, is very similar to the original S5. It has a compact and lightweight body, making it easy to carry around for extended periods of time.

The camera body is made of magnesium alloy, which makes it durable and able to withstand some wear and tear.

S5 II is weather-sealed, which means it is dust and splash-resistant, making it suitable for use in harsh environments.

Whereas, the Panasonic S5 body is also made of magnesium alloy and is weather-sealed.

In terms of differences between the S5 II and S5 body designs, there aren’t many noticeable changes. The S5 II has a slightly modified grip that is more comfortable to hold, and the camera’s buttons have been rearranged slightly for easier access.

Menu

The menu system in the Panasonic S5II is similar to that of the original S5, with a few improvements. The menu is easy to navigate, with intuitive icons and clear, concise labels for each setting. The menu is divided into four main categories: Camera, Video, Custom, and Setup.

In the Camera menu, you can find settings related to shooting modes, ISO, white balance, and other camera-specific settings.

The Video menu includes settings for recording video, including frame rate, resolution, and compression options.

The Custom menu allows you to customize the camera’s buttons and other settings to your liking, while the Setup menu includes general settings such as date and time, language, and firmware updates.

The Panasonic S5II also features a touchscreen interface, which allows for easy navigation of the menu system. You can simply tap on the menu options to access and change settings.

If you are already familiar with the menu system of the original S5, you will have no trouble navigating the S5II’s menu.

Screen

In terms of Screen, both cameras share the same body design and screen size, the Panasonic S5 has a 3.0-inch free-angle LCD screen with a resolution of 1.84 million dots.

This screen is touch-sensitive, which makes it easy to navigate menus and make adjustments to settings, the screen is capable of tilting up and down, which makes it useful for shooting from low or high angles.

In comparison, the S5 II has a 3.0-inch free-angle LCD screen, but it has a higher resolution of 2.36 million dots.

This means that the image on the screen will appear sharper and more detailed. the screen on the S5 II is also touch-sensitive and can tilt up and down.

Image Quality

the S5 II has an updated image processor that promises better image quality, particularly in low light.

In terms of color reproduction, both cameras deliver excellent results, with accurate colors and good dynamic range.

the S5 II has a slightly wider dynamic range, which means it can capture more detail in both the highlights and shadows of a scene.

The S5 II also has improved noise reduction compared to the S5 which means that images taken at high ISOs (sensitivity to light) should have less visible noise, resulting in cleaner and sharper images.

Both cameras offer 14-bit RAW files for greater flexibility in post-processing, but the S5 II has an updated RAW processing engine that can handle larger files with greater speed and efficiency.

Another factor that can impact image quality is the lenses used with the camera. Fortunately, both the S5 and S5 II are compatible with Panasonic’s impressive lineup of high-quality lenses, so users can choose the best lens for their needs.

Viewfinder

The Panasonic S5II and S5 both have a high-quality OLED electronic viewfinder (EVF) with a resolution of 2.36 million dots.

The Panasonic S5II features an improved viewfinder with a higher magnification of 0.74x compared to the S5’s 0.68x. This means that the S5II’s viewfinder provides a larger image, making it easier to compose shots and focus on details.

the S5II’s viewfinder has a faster refresh rate of 120 fps, compared to the S5’s 60 fps, which makes it more responsive and smoother to use.

The S5II has some advantages in the viewfinder over S5, the S5II’s viewfinder has a built-in eye sensor that automatically switches between the EVF and the rear LCD screen when you move your eye away from the viewfinder.

Sensor

When it comes to sensor both cameras have the same sensor type, which is a full-frame CMOS sensor.

The S5 II features a 24.2-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor, which is the same as the one found in the original S5.

the S5 II has a new processor, which allows it to capture images with improved noise reduction and dynamic range.

the S5 II has improved autofocus, with a new algorithm that makes it faster and more accurate, especially in low light conditions.

The Lumix S5II sensor has a sensitivity range of ISO 100 to 51200, which can be expanded up to ISO 204800.

On the other hand, the original Panasonic Lumix S5 features the same 24.2-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor, but it has a slightly lower sensitivity range of ISO 100 to 51200, which can be expanded up to ISO 204800.

In comparison, the S5 has the same sensor but uses the Venus Engine processor, which also delivers excellent image quality, but doesn’t quite match the S5 II in terms of dynamic range and noise reduction.

Shutter

The Panasonic Lumix S5 features a mechanical shutter with a maximum speed of 1/8000s, while the S5 II features an improved mechanical shutter with a maximum speed of 1/200s.

This means that the S5 II’s shutter is more durable and can withstand more use over time. the S5 II also has an electronic shutter option with a maximum speed of 1/16000s, which can be useful for shooting in bright light conditions or capturing fast-moving subjects without motion blur.

Overall, the shutter on the Panasonic Lumix S5 II is an improvement over the shutter on the S5, but both cameras are capable of producing high-quality images and are suitable for a variety of photography applications.

Image Stabilization

The Panasonic S5II features a 5-axis in-body image stabilization system that works with both photo and video modes.

This system offers up to 6.5 stops of compensation when used with compatible lenses. The S5II also includes a Dual I.S. 2 system, which combines in-body stabilization with lens-based stabilization for even greater stability. This system is particularly effective when used with Panasonic’s Lumix S Pro lenses.

In contrast, the Panasonic S5 features a 5-axis in-body image stabilization system that offers up to 5 stops of compensation when used with compatible lenses.

So, like the S5II, it works with both photo and video modes, the S5 does not include the Dual I.S. 2 system found on the S5II.

So, while both cameras offer excellent in-body stabilization, the S5II’s system is more advanced and provides more compensation, especially when paired with compatible lenses.

Additionally, the Dual I.S. 2 system on the S5II is a unique feature that provides even greater stability, making it an excellent choice for videographers and photographers who require maximum stability.

Slow Motion

So, both cameras are capable of shooting high-quality slow motion footage, but the S5 II has some advantages over the S5.

This camera has a newer sensor, better autofocus, and a few other features that make it a more advanced camera overall.

The S5II is capable of shooting slow motion footage in 4K at up to 60 frames per second and in Full HD at up to 180 fps. This means that you can capture high-quality slow motion footage with a lot of detail and clarity.

Whereas, S5 is capable of shooting slow motion footage in 4K at up to 60 frames per second and in Full HD at up to 180 fps. This means that you can capture high-quality slow motion footage with a lot of detail and clarity.

ISO Sensitivity

Panasonic Lumix S5 II

• ISO range: 100-51200 (expandable to 50-204800)
• Maximum native ISO: 51200
• Maximum extended ISO: 204800

Panasonic Lumix S5

• ISO range: 100-51200 (expandable to 50-204800)
• Maximum native ISO: 51200
• Maximum extended ISO: 204800

In terms of ISO both cameras come with similar ISO sensitivity ranges S5 II has a native ISO range of 100-51200, which can be expanded to 50-204800.

The S5 II uses a 24.2-megapixel sensor with Dual Native ISO technology that reduces noise at high ISO settings, also has a high-resolution mode that can produce 96-megapixel images.

Whereas, the S5 has a native ISO range of 100-51200, which can be expanded to 50-204800. The camera uses a 24.2-megapixel sensor with a low-pass filter that reduces moiré and aliasing, and also has a high-resolution mode that can produce 96-megapixel images.

So, both cameras have excellent high-ISO capabilities and produce low noise images even at higher ISO settings. The S5 II may have a slight edge in terms of noise reduction, thanks to its Dual Native ISO technology

Video

In terms of video, the S5 II has several improvements in video capabilities over its predecessor. One of the most notable changes is that the S5 II can shoot 4K/60p video, which allows for smoother motion and a more cinematic look.

The S5 II also offers more advanced autofocus features, including face and eye detection autofocus, which makes it easier to keep subjects in focus during video recording.

Also, the S5 II has a new Live View Composite mode, which allows for long exposures of up to 30 minutes by only adding bright pixels to the image, without overexposing the rest.

Whereas, the S5 is also a capable video camera which can shoot 4K/60p video, but it lacks some of the advanced autofocus features found in the S5 II. However, it has a unique anamorphic mode that allows for shooting in a widescreen aspect ratio.

Autofocus

Both cameras feature advanced autofocus systems. The S5II uses a Contrast Detection autofocus system, while the S5 uses a hybrid autofocus system, which combines Contrast Detection and Phase Detection autofocus.

The S5II comes with a new autofocus algorithm that enhances the camera’s autofocus capabilities, particularly in low-light conditions.

This system uses an advanced Deep Learning algorithm to accurately detect and track subjects, even in low contrast and low light environments.

the S5II has an improved autofocus speed of 0.08 seconds, which is one of the fastest in the market.

In comparison, S5 uses a hybrid autofocus system that combines Contrast Detection and Phase Detection autofocus. This system provides fast and accurate autofocus performance, even in low-light conditions.

The S5 also features a DFD (Depth from Defocus) technology, which predicts the distance to the subject by analyzing two images with different sharpness levels. This technology provides fast and precise autofocus, even in continuous shooting modes.

Autofocus Performance

In terms of autofocus performance, both cameras perform very well. However, the Panasonic S5II has a slight advantage over the S5, particularly in low-light conditions. The new autofocus algorithm in the S5II provides more accurate and faster autofocus performance, even in low contrast and low light environments. Additionally, the S5II has an improved autofocus speed, which makes it one of the fastest autofocus systems in the market.

The S5, on the other hand, provides fast and accurate autofocus performance, thanks to its hybrid autofocus system.

The DFD technology in the S5 also provides fast and precise autofocus, even in continuous shooting modes.

Frame Rate

when it comes to their frame rate capabilities S5II is the newer model and offers a faster frame rate than the original S5.

the S5 has a faster burst mode for still photography, with a maximum frame rate of 7 fps with continuous autofocus and up to 60 fps with fixed autofocus.

The S5II can shoot at up to 6 fps with continuous autofocus and up to 30 fps with fixed autofocus.

Dynamic Range

the Panasonic S5II has a dynamic range of 14.5 EV at base ISO, which is slightly better than the Panasonic S5’s dynamic range of 14.1 EV at base ISO.

In practical terms, this means that the Panasonic S5II can capture more detail in both the highlights and shadows, making it a better choice for shooting in high-contrast situations.

This improvement in dynamic range can be particularly useful in landscape photography where the difference between the bright sky and the dark foreground can be significant.

EVF

One of the key features that sets these cameras apart from other models on the market is their electronic viewfinder, which allows photographers to compose their shots with ease and accuracy.

Both cameras come equipped with a 2.36m-dot OLED EVF that offers a bright, clear view of the scene, but the EVF on the S5 II has been upgraded with a higher refresh rate of 120Hz compared to the 60Hz refresh rate of the S5.

This means that the EVF on the S5 II is more responsive and provides a smoother and more natural-looking view of the scene, which can be especially helpful when shooting fast-moving subjects.

the EVF on the S5 II has a higher magnification of 0.74x compared to the 0.74x magnification on the S5 which means that the S5 II’s EVF provides a larger and more detailed view of the scene, which can be helpful when composing shots with precise focus and detail.

Both cameras also offer a range of features to enhance the EVF experience, such as the ability to adjust the brightness and color of the EVF to match the ambient lighting conditions, as well as the ability to display helpful shooting information, such as exposure settings and histograms, within the EVF.

Storage SD Card

Both cameras support SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards the S5II supports UHS-II SD cards, which have faster data transfer speeds than standard SD cards.

With a UHS-II card, the S5II can shoot continuously at up to 7 frames per second with autofocus and up to 30 fps in 6K Photo mode.

Also, the S5 II can also record 4K video at up to 60 frames per second. The maximum capacity of an SD card that the S5II can handle is 2 terabytes.

Whereas, the Panasonic S5 supports UHS-I SD cards, which have slightly slower data transfer speeds than UHS-II cards.

the S5 can still shoot continuously at up to 7 fps with autofocus and up to 30 fps in 6K Photo mode.

It can also record 4K video at up to 60 fps. The maximum capacity of an SD card that the S5 can handle is 2 TB.

In terms of write speed, the Panasonic S5II has a faster write speed than the S5 when using UHS-II SD cards, which means that images and video will be written to the card more quickly, which can be important when shooting fast action or in burst mode.

Ports

In terms of ports, both cameras feature a 3.5mm microphone input and a 3.5mm headphone output, which allow you to record audio and monitor it in real-time.

the S5 II also features a USB-C port that supports power delivery, which means you can power the camera and charge the battery using an external power bank or wall adapter.

In addition to the USB-C port, the S5 II also features a full-size HDMI port that supports 4K 60p output.

This is a significant improvement over the S5, which only supports 4K 30p output via its micro-HDMI port.

The full-size HDMI port on the S5 II is also useful for connecting to external monitors or recorders, which can be especially helpful for videographers.

Both cameras also feature a USB 3.1 port, which can be used for data transfer or tethered shooting.

the S5 II also includes a wired LAN port, which allows you to connect the camera directly to a network for remote shooting and control.

One other difference worth mentioning is that the S5 II includes a PC sync port, which can be used to trigger off-camera flashes or strobes.

This is a feature that is often used by professional photographers who need precise control over their lighting setups.

Battery

In terms of actual battery life, both cameras are rated for up to 470 shots per charge when using the EVF, or up to 1500 shots per charge when using the rear LCD screen.

So, both cameras use the same DMW-BLK22 battery, which is a 7.2V lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 2200mAh and battery life for both cameras should be quite similar, all else being equal.

there are a few factors that can affect battery life in different ways between the S5II and S5. One of the main differences is that the S5II has a higher-resolution EVF (electronic viewfinder) than the S5, which means that it may consume more power when in use.

the S5II has a fully articulating LCD screen, which can also use more power when rotated and tilted frequently.

On the other hand, the S5 has a slightly smaller body than the S5II, which means that it may be able to achieve slightly better battery life due to its smaller size and weight.

The S5 also has a lower-resolution EVF, which may use less power overall.

Release Date

The Panasonic S5 was released in 2 September 2020, it quickly became a popular choice for photographers and videographers looking for a compact, versatile camera.

4 January 2023 Panasonic has released an updated version of the S5 – the S5II. This new camera builds on the success of its predecessor, with some notable improvements and additions.

Price

The Panasonic S5II is currently priced at around $2,000 for the body only, making it a mid-range camera in terms of price andthe S5II does offer some impressive features for the price.

Whereas, the S5 is currently priced at around $1,500 for the body only. This makes it slightly cheaper than the S5II, but it still offers some impressive features for the price.

Which Camera is Better for Video?

Both cameras are capable of shooting high-quality 4K video, but the S5 II’s ability to shoot at higher frame rates may make it a better choice for those who want to capture slow-motion footage.

So, both cameras offer excellent image quality and performance, the S5II provides some notable improvements over the S5 in terms of resolution, image stabilization, autofocus, and video capabilities.

However, both cameras are capable of producing high-quality video and are a good choice for content creators and videographers.

Which Camera is Better for Still Photography?

Both cameras are highly capable when it comes to still photography, but the S5II has a slight edge thanks to its larger full-frame sensor.

This allows for better low-light performance, more depth-of-field control, and sharper overall image quality.

Why Should you Buy Panasonic S5?

So if you’re primarily interested in still photography and need a high frame rate for capturing fast-moving action, the S5 may be the better choice.

Which Camera Should You Buy?

the Panasonic S5II is a more advanced camera than the original S5, but both cameras share a similar user interface that is intuitive and easy to use.

Whether you choose the S5 or the S5II, you can expect a camera with excellent image quality, if you’re on a budget or don’t need all of the advanced features of the S5 II, the S5 is still a great option for slow motion footage.

What lenses are compatible with the Panasonic Lumix S5 II and S5?

Both cameras use the L-mount system, which means they are compatible with a wide range of lenses from Panasonic, Leica, and Sigma.

Conclusion

After examining the features and specifications of the Panasonic S5 II vs the Panasonic S5, it is clear that both cameras are excellent options for photographers and videographers.

The Panasonic S5 II offers several improvements over its predecessor, including a higher-resolution 20.3-megapixel sensor, improved autofocus performance, and an improved image stabilization system.

the S5 II features a new Live View Composite mode and a high-resolution mode that allows for even more detail in still images.

On the other hand, the Panasonic S5 still offers a lot of value, with its compact design, excellent image quality, and strong video capabilities.

If you prioritize the latest features and improved performance, the S5 II may be the better option.