Panasonic Lumix S5

For and against

+ Smallest and lightest S-series camera to date

+ Excellent ergonomics and customisable control

+ Magnesium alloy body is splash/dust-resistant

+ Video capability (V-Log and V-Gamut preinstalled)

- Only one SD card slot complies with UHS-II standard

- AF point can’t be moved diagonally using the joystick

- A few controls feel rather plasticky

- Can’t shoot beyond 1/8000sec using the electronic shutter

Data file

Sensor 24.3MP CMOS, 35.6 x 23.8mm

Output size 6000x4000 pixels

Focal length mag 1x

Lens mount Leica L

Shutter speeds 60-1/8000sec

ISO 100-51200 (50-204800 extended)

Exposure modes PASM, Auto, Movie

Metering Multi, centre-weighted, spot, highlight

Exposure comp +/-5EV in 1/3EV steps

Burst shooting 7fps (AFS), 5fps (AFC)

Screen 3in, 1.84m-dot articulated touchscreen

Viewfinder 2.36m-dot OLED, 0.74x magnification

AF points 225-area AF

Video 4K/60p,Full HD/60p (180fps available in S&Q mode)

External mic 3.5mm stereo

Memory card Dual SD card slots (1x UHS-II)

Power DMW-BLK22E Li-ion battery

Battery life 440 shots (LCD), 470 (EVF)

Dimensions 132.6x97.1x81.9mm

Weight 714g with battery and card

Less than two years ago Panasonic didn’t have a single full-frame camera to its name. It seemed as if the manufacturer was quite content developing its Micro Four Thirds G-series system, when it revealed that it intended on entering the high-end full-frame mirrorless market by teaming up with Leica and Sigma to form the L-Mount Alliance. This brave move was necessary if Panasonic was going to keep up in the mirrorless race and be taken seriously by enthusiasts and professionals as a specialist imaging brand.

Panasonic’s break into full-frame came with the Lumix S1 and S1R.