The Panasonic LUMIX S5 IIX sets a new standard in the full-frame mirrorless camera market. Building on the excellent base performance of the S5 II, this camera adds All-Intra, ProRes, Blackmagic RAW recording capabilities, and live streaming functionality, making it even more powerful. It’s attracting significant attention from professional videographers and content creators. In this review, we’ll take a detailed look at the new features and performance of the LUMIX S5 IIX, analyzing its pros and cons based on real-world experience.
๐ Panasonic LUMIX S5 IIX Key Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Sensor Type | 35mm Full-frame CMOS (35.6 x 23.8mm) |
| Effective Pixels | 24.2 Megapixels |
| Image Processor | New Venus Engine |
| Lens Mount | L-Mount |
| AF System | 779-point phase-detection AF |
| ISO Sensitivity | Auto / 100-51200 (Extended: 50-204800) |
| Shutter Speed | 1/8000 to 60 sec, Bulb |
| Continuous Shooting | Up to 30fps (electronic shutter) |
| Image Stabilization | 5-axis IBIS (up to 6.5 stops) |
| Viewfinder | 3,680K dot OLED EVF, 0.78x magnification |
| Monitor | 3.0-inch 1,840K dot free-angle touch LCD |
| Video Recording | 6K 30p ProRes 422 HQ, 5.9K 30p Blackmagic RAW, 4K 60p All-Intra 10-bit |
| Slow & Quick | 4K 60fps, FHD 180fps |
| Storage Media | Dual SD card slots (UHS-II compatible), USB SSD external recording |
| Battery | DMW-BLK22 Lithium-ion Battery |
| Dimensions | 134.3 x 102.3 x 90.1 mm |
| Weight | Approx. 740g (with battery and memory card) |
| Dust/Splash Resistant | Yes |
| Special Features | V-Log/V-Gamut, Real-time LUT, Anamorphic mode, Live streaming |
| Connectivity | USB 3.2 Type-C, HDMI Type A, 3.5mm mic/headphone, 2.5mm remote, Wi-Fi 5GHz/2.4GHz, Bluetooth 5.0 |
๐ฅ Enhanced Video Capabilities
The LUMIX S5 IIX offers evolved video features compared to its predecessor, the S5 II.
All-Intra Recording Option
- Supports All-Intra 10-bit 422 recording up to 4K 60p
- Provides better editing flexibility with high bitrates (up to 800Mbps)
Internal ProRes Recording
- Supports internal 5.8K 30p ProRes 422 HQ recording
- Offers a high-quality codec suitable for professional video production workflows
Blackmagic RAW Support
- Supports external 5.9K 30p Blackmagic RAW recording
- Enables flexible post-processing in DaVinci Resolve
USB SSD External Recording
- Supports external SSD recording via USB-C port
- Enables long-duration, high-quality recording with large capacity, high-speed storage
๐ก Live Streaming Functionality
The S5 IIX offers various live streaming options to meet the needs of content creators.
Multiple Connection Methods
- Direct streaming via Wi-Fi
- Utilizing mobile networks through USB tethering
- Wired connection support via Ethernet adapter
RTMP/RTMPS Protocol Support
- Compatible with major streaming platforms like YouTube and Facebook Live
- Capable of streaming up to 1080p 60fps quality
Flexible Setup Options
- Direct setup in-camera or easy configuration through the LUMIX Sync app
- Integration possible with external software like OBS
๐จ Enhanced RAW Workflow
The S5 IIX offers more flexible post-processing options through Blackmagic RAW support.
Various RAW Decoding Options
- Ability to decode into various Log profiles including V-Log, ARRI LogC, Canon Log
- Options to select color spaces matching each Log profile
Highlight Recovery Feature
- Highlight detail recovery utilizing RAW data
- Potential to recover approximately 0.8 stops of additional dynamic range
Flexible White Balance and Exposure Adjustment
- Transparent white balance adjustment based on RAW data
- Exposure adjustment providing results identical to in-camera ISO changes
๐ง Expandability and Usability
The S5 IIX offers high expandability through compatibility with various accessories.
External SSD Recording System
- Elegant SSD integration through Kondor Blue top handle
- Compatibility with the SanDisk Professional Pro-Blade system
LUMIX Tether Software
- Remote camera control via Ethernet connection
- Suitable for multi-camera setups
Improved HDMI Output
- Adoption of full-size HDMI Type A port
- Ability to output camera OSD information for external monitoring
๐ก Real-World Experience
The LUMIX S5 IIX demonstrates excellent performance in various shooting situations. Based on real-world experience, here are some key points:
For Professional Video Production
- High-quality video capture utilizing ProRes and All-Intra codecs
- Flexible post-production workflow through Blackmagic RAW
- Long-duration, high-quality recording possible with USB SSD recording
For Live Streaming and Content Creation
- Immediate content delivery with easy live streaming setup
- Versatility as a high-quality webcam
- Efficient studio workflow through LUMIX Tether
For Field Shooting
- Stable handheld shooting with powerful IBIS and improved AF performance
- Flexible color grading utilizing various Log profiles
- High mobility with professional-grade features in a compact body
๐ Comparison with Competitors
The LUMIX S5 IIX faces several strong competitors in the full-frame mirrorless camera market. Let’s compare it with key rival models.
Comparison with Sony A7S III
- Sensor Resolution: S5 IIX higher at 24MP (A7S III is 12MP)
- Video Features: Both excellent, S5 IIX capable of 6K recording
- AF Performance: Sony’s AF system slightly ahead
- Price: S5 IIX more affordable
Comparison with Canon EOS R6 Mark II
- Sensor Resolution: S5 IIX at 24MP, R6 II at 20MP
- Video: S5 IIX supports more professional codecs
- AF Performance: Canon’s Dual Pixel AF slightly ahead
- Price: Similar level, but S5 IIX offers more diverse features
Comparison with Nikon Z6 II
- Sensor Resolution: Both 24MP
- Video: S5 IIX offers more professional-grade features
- AF Performance: Similar level, but Nikon slightly ahead
- Price: S5 IIX slightly higher but offers more features
Comparison with Fujifilm X-H2S
- Sensor Size: S5 IIX has advantage with full-frame
- Video: Both offer excellent features, S5 IIX supports more codecs
- Continuous Shooting: X-H2S ahead with up to 40fps
- Price: Similar level, but S5 IIX offers full-frame advantage
Comparison with Panasonic S5 II
- Video Features: S5 IIX adds All-Intra, ProRes, USB SSD recording support
- Live Streaming: Only supported on S5 IIX
- Design: S5 IIX adopts black body
- Price: S5 IIX about $200 more expensive
๐ Conclusion: Who Is This Camera For?
The Panasonic LUMIX S5 IIX is a versatile hybrid camera, particularly suitable for professional video production and diverse content creation. It’s highly recommended for:
- Professional videographers seeking high-quality video production
- Content creators needing both live streaming and high-quality video capture
- Filmmakers wanting RAW capture and professional post-production workflow
- Freelance photographers needing a versatile camera for various shooting situations
- Photographers and videographers looking to build efficient workflows in studio environments
Advantages
- Various professional-grade video features (All-Intra, ProRes, Blackmagic RAW)
- Flexible recording options (internal memory, USB SSD)
- Built-in live streaming functionality
- Powerful IBIS and improved AF performance
- Highly expandable system
Disadvantages
- Higher price compared to S5 II
- HDMI delay issues in some situations
- Lack of All-Intra option in 6K shooting
The LUMIX S5 IIX is setting a new standard in the full-frame mirrorless camera market. Through its excellent video capabilities, diverse recording options, and built-in live streaming functionality, it meets the varied needs of modern content creators. It’s particularly appealing to users seeking professional video production and multipurpose use.
With the S5 IIX, Panasonic has further solidified its position in the hybrid camera market. However, the increased price compared to the S5 II and some functional limitations (e.g., HDMI delay) should be considered when purchasing.
In conclusion, the Panasonic LUMIX S5 IIX is highly recommended for users seeking professional-grade features. It’s an ideal choice for those focusing on video production and live streaming while also wanting excellent photo performance. Considering the features and performance it offers for its price, the S5 IIX is set to become one of the most versatile and competitive cameras in the market.
