Panasonic unveils LUMIX S5II, S5IIX mirrorless cameras, now w/ PDAF

Panasonic on Thursday has announced its new set of hybrid full-frame mirrorless cameras at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2023 in Las Vegas, New York. Namely. the LUMIX S5II and S5IIX, firsts to bring Phase Detection Auto-Focus (PDAF) in the series, putting video as their primary focus.

Panasonic LUMIX S5II (left), and the S5IIX (right)

The new hybrids feature the 24.2-megapixel 35mm full-frame CMOS sensor, and the new imaging engine developed under L² technology (LEICA x LUMIX partnership). Previously, the company’s cameras utilized contrast detection-based depth-from-defocusing (DFD) technology.

Panasonic takes the said PDAF capability further with the introduction of Phase Hybrid Auto-Focus that combines PDAF and contrast detection systems. It significantly improves subject tracking with increased AF points at 779.

When it comes to image stabilization, the units consist of 5-axis Body IS and 2-axis Optical Image Stabilizer, that works for both photo and video, including 4K. Active IS — that optimizes the horizontal, vertical, and rotational correction ratios by determining the status of camera shake — is also added for video recording.

Panasonic claims that the video capabilities of the LUMIX S5II and S5IIX are comparable to the S1H. They can record up to 4:2:0 10-bit 6K (3:2) / 5.9K (16:9), or unlimited 4:2:2 10-bit C4K/4K. There’s also a new heat dissipation mechanism with a built-in fan and heat sink that prevents overheating due to longer 4K recording.

Users may also apply real time LUTs for color grading by uploading (.VLT/.cube) LUTs directly into the cameras’ SD card. They contain 14+ stop with V-Log/V-Gamut for HDR and broad colors. You may see their full parameters here.

The LUMIX S5II is priced at USD 1,999.99 and will soon be available this January. While the LUMIX S5IIX is priced at USD 2,199.99 and comes available in May 2023.