I wanted to post this review about the Panasonic Lumix DC-S5-II out there because, it seems every YouTuber out there, received one to post some awesome reviews about the camera. Not many honest reviews are available.

No doubt the price point of under $2000 is fantastic but is it worth it? Let’s get into it.

The Panasonic Lumix S5-II is a good camera for both still photography and video. Its compact size makes it easy to take on the go, unfortunately, the Panasonic Lumix S5-II falls short in a few key areas.

Photography

One of the standout features of the S5-II is its full-frame sensor, which delivers stunningly sharp and detailed images. The camera also performs well in low light conditions thanks to its high ISO range and excellent noise reduction. While the image quality is generally good, the autofocus system leaves a lot to be desired. It can be slow to lock on to subjects, especially in low light or when attempting to track moving objects.

Another issue is the limited lens options. The S5-II has a relatively small selection of native lenses available, which can be limiting for those looking to expand their creative possibilities.

Filmmaking

In addition to still photography, the S5-II is also a great choice for videographers. It can record 6K 30fps and 4K video at up to 60 frames per second albeit with a crop, and the image stabilization system helps to produce smooth, steady footage. The camera also has a variety of creative video features, such as the ability to record in a flat profile for easier colour grading in post-production. The in-camera noise reduction is horrible, better to do it in post for sure. In short No full frame 6K 4.2.2 support and No Full Frame 4K 60fps over. It’s a mixed bag of resolutions, frame sizes and bit rates.

Phase Autofocus

The new phase autofocus system on the Panasonic Lumix S5-II is a mixed bag. On one hand, it can be very accurate when it comes to locking onto stationary subjects. However, it struggles when it comes to tracking moving objects, especially in low-light or high-contrast situations.

One of the issues with the phase autofocus system is that it can be slow to react. It often takes a moment for the camera to adjust and lock onto the desired subject, which can be frustrating for those trying to capture fast-moving action.

Another issue is that the autofocus can be prone to hunting, especially in low light. This can lead to a lot of back and fourth adjustments, which can be distracting and disrupt the flow of shooting.

Overall, the phase autofocus system on the Panasonic Lumix S5-II is functional, but it leaves a lot to be desired. It’s not the most reliable or responsive system, and it can be frustrating to use at times.

Battery Life

Finally, the camera’s battery life is underwhelming. It drains quickly, especially when shooting video or using the live view feature. This can be frustrating for those who are out shooting all day and don’t have the opportunity to constantly recharge the battery.

Conclusion

In summary, for me, the Panasonic Lumix S5-II is a disappointment. While it produces decent image quality, the autofocus struggles, lens selection is limited, and battery life is poor. There are better options available for those looking for a full-frame camera. Even older cameras under $2000 can achieve most of what this camera can do.