The newly announced Lumix S5 utilises the same sensor in the S1 and S1H, cameras that cost a fair bit more. Panasonic have managed to package it into a body that is smaller than the Lumix GH5. For the users who don’t require the heftier body of the S1, S1R and the S1H, this allows people to tap into the newer system with a much more compact body.
Despite the Lumix S5 being an entry-level offering in Panasonic’s full-frame range, the features and hardware beg to differ. Starting from the exterior, the control layout is almost the same but this time with a vari-angle flip LCD screen. You can position it for all kinds of shooting and compositions. If you don’t want to use the screen, the EVF is a high resolution 2.36K dot OLED panel. The whole camera is also weather sealed.
Inside the S5, is a stabilized 35mm sensor at its core. Panasonic claims up to 6.5 stops of stabilization with the right lens. It’s the same base sensor as the S1 and S1H, meaning you’ve got the same 24.2MP CMOS chip. There’s a 96MP mode where it stacks multiple shots for a high-resolution photo.
As expected for the tier, the video specs are less than the flagship camera, but they are still on-par with the competition. Starting with 4K, you can shoot at 60 frames per second with 10-bit 4:2:0. There is a slight crop applied to that (APS-C). Uncropped, you can shoot at 4:2:2 10-bit 30 frames a second. You can even shoot in a mode designed specifically for anamorphic lenses.
There’s a pre-order bonus right now. If you order before 23rd of September (2020), you can claim either a Sigma 45mm or a Panasonic XLR adapter!