The new camera features a 24MP BSI CMOS sensor, a revamped autofocus (AF) system which includes deep-learning technology that improves its speed and precision, as well as Panasonic’s Depth From Defocus (DFD) system for continuous AF. The Lumix S5 also includes a 5-axis in-body image stabilisation (IBIS) with up to 6.5 stops of shake reduction, and a native ISO of up to 51,200.
For low-light photography, the camera comes with the Dual Native ISO feature which allows for cleaner performance at high ISO levels for stills or video. It is also capable of shooting images at a larger resolution of 96MP via a high-res multi-shot mode. Video-wise, the Panasonic Lumix S5 can record 4K/60p videos at up to 10-bit 4:2:0 with APS-C crop, or 4K/30p or 24p at up to 10-bit 4:2:2 using the full width of the sensor. The company mentioned that more video features will arrive for the camera post-launch via a firmware update.
Other than that, the Lumix S5 features a flip-out 1.84M dots LCD screen on its back and a 2.36M dots electronic viewfinder (EVF). There are two SD card slots found on the camera’s right side; one supporting UHS-I, while the other is UHS-II compatible. Its body is claimed to be splash/dust-resistant, although its rating was not revealed by the company. Lastly, it has a 2,200mAh battery that can be charged via USB-C.
The Panasonic Lumix S5 is expected to ship by mid-September this year and is available for pre-order via the company’s official website, at least in the US. It is priced at USD2,000 (~RM8,288) body-only, and USD2,300 (~RM9,530) when bundled with a 20-60mm f/3.5 – 5.6 kit lens. Panasonic Malaysia has not confirmed if the camera will be available locally at this time. (Source: Panasonic [Global website])