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Panasonic LUMIX S5 II product photo
Sony a7 IV product photo

Camera faceoff

LUMIX S5 II vs a7 IV

Panasonic · Sony

Specs at a glance

Category
mirrorless
mirrorless
Sensor
Full-Frame CMOS
Full-Frame CMOS
Sensor Size
35.6 x 23.8 mm
35.9 x 23.9 mm
Megapixels
24.2
33
Mount
L-Mount
Sony E
Max Resolution
5K (5952x3968)
4K UHD (3840x2160)
Max Frame Rate
100fps @ 1080p
120fps @ 1080p
Codec
ProRes, H.265, H.264
XAVC S-I, XAVC HS, XAVC S, H.265
Dynamic Range
14+ stops (V-Log)
15 stops
ISO Range
ISO 50–204800
ISO 50–204800
ND Filter
Stabilization
Sensor-Shift, 5-Axis
Sensor-Shift, 5-Axis
Autofocus
Phase-detect, 779 points
Phase-detect, 759 points
Log / Gamma
Panasonic V-Gamut, V-Log
HDR-HLG, Sony S-Log 2, Sony S-Log 3
Battery
1x Rechargeable Lithium-Ion, 7.2 VDC, 2200 mAh (Included)<br>• Approx. 370 Shots
1x NP-FZ100 Rechargeable Lithium-Ion, 7.2 VDC, 2280 mAh (Included)<br>• Approx. 520 Shots
Weight
658g
658g
MSRP
$1,997.99
$2,499

Summary

For filmmakers prioritizing advanced video capabilities and internal 6K recording, the LUMIX S5 II is the clear choice, offering 6K30p and 14+ stops of V-Log dynamic range. The Sony a7 IV, however, is a superior hybrid tool for those needing higher resolution stills with its 33MP sensor and Sony's class-leading autofocus.

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Highlights

LUMIX S5 II

  • Video Capabilities: 6K30p internal recording and external Apple ProRes for professional workflows.
  • Autofocus: Phase Hybrid AF System with 779 points delivers reliable subject tracking.
  • Dynamic Range & Color: 14+ stops with V-Log provides extensive grading latitude.
  • Stabilization: 5-Axis Sensor-Shift Image Stabilization ensures smooth handheld footage.

a7 IV

  • Sensor & Resolution: 33MP Full-Frame Exmor R CMOS sensor captures high-detail stills.
  • Autofocus: Real-time Tracking AF with 759 phase-detection points for superior subject tracking.
  • Dynamic Range: 15 stops of dynamic range for excellent highlight and shadow recovery.
  • Ergonomics & Ecosystem: Lighter 658g body and access to the vast Sony E-mount lens ecosystem.

The trade-off

Choosing the LUMIX S5 II means giving up the higher 33MP stills resolution and Sony's industry-leading Real-time Tracking AF. Choosing the a7 IV means giving up internal 6K30p recording and the option for external Apple ProRes.

Best for…

Serious Video Production

LUMIX S5 II

internal 6K30p and external ProRes for professional workflows

Hybrid Shooter (Stills Priority)

a7 IV

33MP sensor and superior autofocus for high-res images

Run-and-Gun Filmmaking

LUMIX S5 II

robust Phase Hybrid AF and 5-Axis IBIS for dynamic shooting

Event Photography

a7 IV

33MP resolution and Real-time Tracking AF for sharp, detailed shots

Color Grading Flexibility

LUMIX S5 II

14+ stops V-Log provides maximum latitude in post

What to pair it with

Updated 3/4/2026