Panasonic Lumix S5II review

Panasonic Lumix S5II is the full-frame body to get if video matters most and the budget is tight. It was the first Lumix with phase detection autofocus, using 779 points on a 24.2MP full-frame sensor, which addresses the main weakness of older Lumix bodies. Panasonic lists 4:2:2 10-bit C4K and 4K at 60p with unlimited recording time between 0 and 104°F, helped by a heat dissipation structure. Body stabilization is rated at 5 stops, or 6.5 stops with Dual I.S., and Active I.S. targets walk-and-shoot footage. Open gate recording, Real Time LUTs and Crop Zoom suit creators who deliver to several platforms. For stills, the electronic shutter shoots 30 fps with continuous AF, and a High Resolution mode builds a 96MP image. Panasonic USA showed a sale price of $1,599.99 against a regular $1,999.99, with the offer valid through 11/18/26. We compared documented features and published prices; we did not test the camera ourselves.

Who it is for

video creators who want full frame for the lowest verified price

Price

Sale price $1,599.99 at Panasonic USA (regular $1,999.99, offer through 11/18/26).

Sale price $1,599.99 Regular price $1,999.99
Quoted from the vendor pricing page on November 13, 2026.

Key features

• 24.2MP 35mm full-frame CMOS sensor with 779-point phase detection autofocus
• 4:2:2 10-bit C4K/4K 60p with unlimited recording time from 0 to 104°F
• 5-axis, 5-stop Body I.S., up to 6.5 stops with Dual I.S., plus Active I.S. for walking shots
• Full sensor open gate recording for multiple aspect ratios
• Real Time LUT applied in camera for photo and video

Strengths and weaknesses

• Strength: Cheapest full-frame body on this list with a verified price, $1,599.99 on sale
• Strength: 30 fps AFC bursts at 24.2MP with the electronic shutter
• Strength: 96-megapixel High Resolution mode from eight sensor-shifted frames
• Weakness: The $1,599.99 price is a sale valid through 11/18/26; the regular price is $1,999.99
• Weakness: L-Mount lens choice comes from Panasonic, Leica and Sigma rather than one large native catalog
• Weakness: The 30 fps burst rate uses the electronic shutter

Key facts

• Price checked: $1,599.99 sale, $1,999.99 regular
• Sensor: 24.2MP full-frame CMOS
• Video: C4K/4K 60p 4:2:2 10-bit, unlimited
• Stabilization: 5-axis, 5 stops; 6.5 stops with Dual I.S.
• Lens mount: L-Mount

Where it ranks

Panasonic Lumix S5II is No. 2 in our Best Mirrorless Cameras verdict.