Panasonic S5 II X vs S5D

With the introduction of the Panasonic Lumix S5 II X in April 2024, the company has made significant advancements from its predecessor, the S5 II, released a year earlier. The S5 II X builds on the success of the S5 II by retaining the fundamental phase-detection mirrorless camera autofocus and other key features. It also offers advanced video capabilities. In terms of design, the camera features a matte finish that contrasts with the other main features, which remain unchanged.

In terms of video features, the Lumix S5 II X offers advanced options such as All-Intra compression and the ability to record videos in RAW format, ensuring maximum flexibility in post-production. Additionally, the camera allows for direct recording to an external SSD via USB, supporting both ProRes and ProRes RAW formats, thereby facilitating a faster, more efficient video workflow. These features are further enhanced by the inclusion of live streaming capability, which adds to its appeal for videographers wishing to broadcast their creations in real time.

In terms of image quality and performance, the S5 II X offers significant improvements, with video recording options up to 5.8K at 30 fps in ProRes. This guarantees precision detail and exceptional quality, even in the most demanding conditions. The S5 II X's versatility makes it an ideal choice for both video professionals and those seeking advanced production capabilities in a compact, rugged body. These features make the Lumix S5 II X a preferred option for those who want to push the boundaries of video creativity.

Announced in October 2024, the Panasonic S5D has gone almost unnoticed, and yet it's an interesting ""low-cost"" full-frame hybrid. It has almost all the features of the Lumix S5, launched four years ago, starting with a stabilised 24.2 MP sensor, tropicalisation and a dual SD card slot (UHS-I / UHS-II). The Venus Engine processor is also unchanged, guaranteeing faithful colour reproduction and recognised performance in both still and video images. The classic ISO range of 100 to 51,200, the 7 fps burst rate and the 1.84 million-dot touch screen, identical to that of the S5, are also retained.

In terms of autonomy, the S5D uses the same DMW-BLK22 battery, although CIPA standards indicate a slight drop in the number of shots (around 430/450). The viewfinder remains unchanged, with 2.36 million pixels. There are minor differences in video, thanks to the ability to film in Full HD up to 180p for sharper slow-motion shots. Another small improvement is compatibility with DJI's Lidar, useful for improving autofocus when using a stabiliser such as the DJI RS3 Pro.

Panasonic sells the S5D as a kit with either an 18-40mm or an 18-200mm, two versatile lenses. Admittedly, the S5D doesn't offer anything revolutionary (to put it mildly), but it remains a very affordable full-frame camera that's still very complete. If you don't need the latest advances in autofocus or ultra-fast burst shooting, it's an excellent compromise between performance and price.