Panasonic announced the upcoming release of the LUMIX S1II and S1IIE Series of cameras. These are newly added to the LUMIX S series full-frame mirrorless single-lens cameras. Release will be in mid-June 2025. The suggested retail price is $3,199.99.
The S1II – Next Step in the LUMIX Lineup
Following the recently announced “S1RII,” two new models, the S1II and S1IIE, are being added, bringing the new generation S1 series to three models.
S1II Target Audience
The LUMIX S1II is aimed at users who want high-resolution, high-definition still and video shooting. Equipped with a newly developed high-speed image sensor, it has features such as high speed, slow-motion expression, and a wide dynamic range. This makes it suitable for a wide range of video production in both photos and videos.
The S1II E
On the other hand, the S1IIE shares the same basic performance as the S1RII and S1II while maintaining the same operability and reliability. It is positioned as a model suitable for users who do not need 24.2 megapixels, advanced video functions, or high speed. The “E” stands for “essential,” suggesting that it has sufficient basic performance. In this way, the three models are developed to meet different needs.
Use Cases of Each Model
Let’s examine unique use cases for the 3 models. The already released S1RII is characterized by its studio portrait photography and system compatibility through collaboration with Capture One, and is said to be suitable for studio photography. In addition, for users who do not require the same number of pixels as a medium format camera but still want high resolution photography, it offers a shooting capability of approximately 177 million pixels through its high-resolution shooting function.
The S1II is intended for a user base that overlaps with the S1RII, but focuses on its ability to handle faster subjects and its imaging capabilities, making it suitable for the production of music videos, etc. In relation to the urban sports function of the newly installed autofocus function, it targets professional photographers and users who capture subjects with irregular and fast movements, such as skateboarding and dancing.
The S1IIE is aimed at creators who do not require the high pixel count or high speed of the S1RII or S1II, but are looking to create more professional works. It is positioned as a good fit for users who want to step up from their existing equipment and pursue greater expressive power.
Comparison Overview
| S1R II | S1 II | S1 IIE | |
| Key points for each model | Overwhelming expressive power brought about by a high-pixel sensor and the LUMIX image creation philosophy | Achieving both versatile video expression and high-speed performance | A standard model that inherits the reliability and operability of the S1 |
| Number of pixels | Approximately 44.3 million pixels, back-illuminated | Approximately 24.1 million pixels Partially stacked type | Approximately 24.2 million pixels, back-illuminated |
| High-resolution shooting | Approximately 177 million pixels | Approximately 96 million pixels | Approximately 96 million pixels |
| Dynamic Range | 14 stops *1 | 15 stops *2 | 14+ Stops |
| High-speed continuous shooting performance | 40 frames/sec *3 | 70 frames/sec *3 | 30 frames per second |
| Versatile video capabilities | 8K 30p/6.4K 30p 10bit | 6K 30p/5.1K 60p 10bit | 6K 30p 10bit |
| Image stabilisation | BIS 8.0 stops (center) / 7.0 stops (periphery) (*Center: 8.0 stops, Periphery: 7.0 stops, Compliant with CIPA2024 standards. Yaw/Pitch/Roll direction: Focal length f=60mm (When using interchangeable lens S-R2060, 5-axis image stabilization)) |
||
| Autofocus | Improved real-time recognition AF (Urban sports added to body part selection for person recognition) | ||
| Viewfinder | Real viewfinder: Approximately 5.76 million dots, high-definition OLED panel | ||
| monitor | Tilt free angle monitor 3 inch, approx. 1.84 million dots | ||
| shutter | Shutter close function when power is turned off / Release durability 400,000 times | ||
| weather resistance | Dust-proof, water-resistant and low-temperature resistant design | ||
| Workflow | Capture One/LUMIX Flow/LUMIX Lab/Frame.io | ||
*1: Dynamic range expansion (log) ON: 14 stops. Dynamic range expansion (log) OFF: 13 stops.
*2: Dynamic range boost (log) ON: 15 stops. Dynamic range boost (log) OFF: 14+ stops.
*3: Speed priority setting
The LUMIX S1II sensor
First, let’s look at the S1II sensor. This model is equipped with a partially stacked image sensor, and by placing high-speed processing circuits above and below the pixel area, it achieves both high image quality and high functionality. Compared to the S5II, the readout speed when using the electronic shutter during single shot still photography has improved by about 3.5 times, which is expected to reduce distortion caused by the electronic shutter.
The adoption of a partially stacked high-speed image sensor has also improved the frame rate of video. It achieves 5.1K60P recording across the entire image sensor and a 15-stop dynamic range (V-Log), and in terms of high speed, it is possible to shoot with an electronic shutter at 70 frames per second with AFS/AFC. The focusing speed has also improved by 1.6 times compared to the S5II.
| AFS | AFC | ||||
| 12bit (speed priority) |
14bit (image quality priority) |
12bit (speed priority) |
14bit (image quality priority) |
||
| SH PRE | Electronic Shutter | 70fps | 60fps | 70fps | 60fps |
| SH | Electronic Shutter | 70fps | 60fps | 70fps | 60fps |
| H+ | Mechanical Shutter | – | – | – | 10fps |
| H | Electronic/Mechanical Shutter | – | 10fps | – | 8fps |
Dynamic Range Boost
The LUMIX S series is the first to feature “Dynamic Range Boost,” a function that was previously available on the GH6 and GH7, which combines two images generated by the image sensor’s low and high ISO circuits pixel by pixel, enabling smooth HDR video recording with rich gradations and low noise and high saturation characteristics.
This enables V-Log/V-Gamut video recording with a wide dynamic range and wide color gamut of 15 stops, the largest for a LUMIX camera. Even in scenes with a large contrast between light and dark, such as a mixture of indirect indoor light and outdoor sunlight, videos with a wide range of gradations can be recorded with suppressed white blowout and black crush. The S1II is the first LUMIX S series camera to feature dynamic range boost.
Continuous Shooting Speed Improved
The continuous shooting speed has also been improved, allowing continuous shooting at up to 70 frames per second with 12-bit speed priority and 60 frames per second with 14-bit image quality priority. If you are concerned about distortion, you can also select 10 frames per second shooting with a mechanical shutter.
For video recording, all aspects are supported by recording across the entire image sensor. It is now possible to record 60P (5.1K 5088×3392 4:2:0 10bit 60p) in full size 3:2, 4K120P (4K 3840×2160 4:2:0 10bit 120p/100p) in full size 16:9, and 240p in full HD (FHD 1920×1080 4:2:2 10bit 240p200p).
The LUMIX S1II E – Performance and Reliability
Next, let’s take a closer look at the S1IIE. This camera is equipped with a back-illuminated 24.2MP CMOS image sensor and the latest generation “L2 Technology-equipped Latest Engine.” It is capable of 30 frames per second continuous shooting with 12-bit speed priority. In addition, if you want to suppress distortion, you can also select 10 frames per second shooting with a mechanical shutter.
| AFS | AFC | ||||
| 12bit (speed priority) |
14bit (image quality priority) |
12bit (speed priority) |
14bit (image quality priority) |
||
| SH PRE | Electronic Shutter | 30fps | – | 30fps | – |
| SH | Electronic Shutter | 30fps | – | 30fps | – |
| H+ | Mechanical Shutter | – | – | 10fps | 7fps |
| H | Electronic/Mechanical Shutter | 10fps | 7fps | 7fps | 6fps |
The S1IIE also supports 6K30P recording across the entire image sensor range. It is targeted at users who do not require the same high frame rates as the S1II, and is capable of shooting at the minimum required frame rate and aspect ratio.
VidDetails of the spec differences and shooting performance of the three models
Here we will compare the three models in terms of photo and video shooting. The S1RII is a high-resolution model equipped with a sensor of approximately 44.3 million pixels, and is characterized by its ability to record images equivalent to 177 million pixels when shooting in high resolution.
| LUMIX S1RII | LUMIX S1 II | LUMIX S1IIE | ||
| Image Sensor | Back-illuminated CMOS image sensor | Partially stacked CMOS image sensor | Back-illuminated CMOS image sensor, approx. 24.2 megapixels |
|
| Number of pixels | Approximately 44.3 million pixels | Approximately 24.1 million pixels | Approximately 24.2 million pixels | |
| High Resolution Mode | Approximately 177 million pixels | Equivalent to 96 million pixels | Equivalent to 96 million pixels | |
| Recording Format | JPEG, RAW | JPEG, RAW, HEIF | JPEG, RAW, HEIF | |
| Dynamic Range Boost | – | correspondence | – | |
| latitude | Dynamic range expansion (Log) ON: 14 stops Dynamic range expansion (Log) OFF: 13 stops |
Dynamic Range Boost (Log) ON: 15 stops Dynamic Range Boost (Log) OFF: 14+ stops |
14+ stops | |
| ISO Sensitivity | 80-51200 (40-102400)/Dual Native ISO | 100-51200 (50-204800)/Dual Native ISO | 100-51200 (50-204800)/Dual Native ISO | |
| IS | Body IS | Center: 8.0 steps, Edges: 7.0 steps | Center: 8.0 steps, Edges: 7.0 steps | Center: 8.0 steps, Edges: 7.0 steps |
| Dual IS | Center: 7.0 steps, Edges: 7.0 steps | Center: 7.0 steps, Edges: 7.0 steps | Center: 7.0 steps, Edges: 7.0 steps | |
| Electronic image stabilisation | Yes (Weak, Strong + Cropless modes available) | Yes (Weak, Strong + Cropless modes available) | Yes (Weak, Strong + Cropless modes available) | |
| AF | Contrast AF + DFD + Phase Detection AF | Contrast AF + DFD + Phase Detection AF | Contrast AF + DFD + Phase Detection AF | |
| People (eyes/face/body) | People (eyes/face/body/urban sports) | People (eyes/face/body/urban sports) | ||
| Animals, cars, motorbikes/bicycles, trains, planes | Animals, cars, motorbikes/bicycles, trains, planes | Animals, cars, motorbikes/bicycles, trains, planes | ||
Photography
In terms of photography, the S1II can shoot 70 frames per second in SH/PRE burst mode, and the dynamic range boost function achieves a wide dynamic range of up to 15 stops. The S1IIE is equipped with a new Urban Sports AF function.
| LUMIX S1RII | LUMIX S1 II | LUMIX S1IIE | ||
| 12bit AFS | 30fps | |||
| 14bit AFS | – | 60fps | – | |
| 12bit AFC | 40fps | 70fps | 30fps | |
| 14bit AFC | – | 60fps | – | |
| Continuous shooting H+ | 12bit AFC | 10fps | 10fps (electronic shutter) / 8fps (mechanical shutter) |
10fps |
| 14bit AFC | 9fps | 10fps (electronic shutter) / 8fps (mechanical shutter) |
7fps | |
| Continuous shooting H | 12bit AFS | 10fps | – | 10fps |
| 14bit AFS | 9fps | 10fps (electronic shutter) / 8fps (mechanical shutter) |
7fps | |
| 12bit AFC | 8fps | – | 8fps | |
| 14bit AFC | 7fps | 8fps (electronic shutter) / 7fps (mechanical shutter) |
6fps | |
Video
Comparison
| LUMIX S1RII | LUMIX S1 II | LUMIX S1IIE | ||
| Video recording format | MOV, MP4, ProRes, ProRes RAW | MOV, MP4, ProRes, ProRes RAW | MOV, MP4, ProRes, ProRes RAW | |
| Log shooting | V-Log | V-Log | V-Log | |
| HDMI RAW data output | correspondence | correspondence | correspondence | |
| ALL-Intra | correspondence | correspondence | correspondence | |
| ALL-Intra Proxy |
correspondence | correspondence | correspondence | |
| Across the sensor | 6.4K 30p | 6K 30p /5.1K 60p | 6K 30p | |
| Over 4K | 8.1K 17:9 30p 4:2:0 10bit | – | – | |
| 8K 16:9 30p 4:2:0 10bit | – | – | ||
| 6.4K 3:2 30p 4:2:0 10bit | – | – | ||
| – | 6K 3:2 30p 4:2:0 10bit | 6K 3:2 30p 4:2:0 10bit | ||
| – | – | 6K 17: 30p 4:2:0 10bit | ||
| – | 6K 2.4:1 60p 4:2:0 10bit | 6K 2.4:1 60p 4:2:0 10bit | ||
| 5.9K16:9 60p 4:2:0 10bit | 5.9K 16:9 60p 4:2:0 10bit | 5.9K 16:9 30p 4:2:0 10bit | ||
| 5.8K 17:9 60p 4:2:0 10-it | 5.8K 17:9 60p 4:2:0 10bit | – | ||
| – | 5.1K 3:2 60p 4:2:0 10bit | – | ||
| – | 4.8K 4:3 60p 4:2:0 10bit | – | ||
| 4.7K 4:3 60p 4:2:0 10bit | – | – | ||
| 4K | C4K 17:9 60p 4:2:2 10bit | C4K 17:9 60p 4:2:2 10bit | C4K 17:9 60p 4:2:2 10bit | |
| 4K 16:9 60p 4:2:2 10bit | 4K 16:9 60p 4:2:2 10bit | 4K 16:9 60p 4:2:2 10bit | ||
| Cs4K 2.4:1 60p 4:2:2 10bit | Cs4K 2.4:1 60p 4:2:2 10bit | |||
| – | 3.3K 4:3 60p 4:2:2 10bit | 3.3K 4:3 30p 4:2:2 10bit | ||
| HFR | 5.9K/5.8K 48p 4:2:0 10bit | 6K/5.9K/5.8K/5.1K 48p 4:2:0 10bit | 6K 48p 4:2:0 10bit | |
| C4K/4K 120p 4:2:0 10bit | C4K/4K/Cs4K 120p 4:2:0 10bit | C4K/4K /Cs4K 48p 4:2:0 10bit | ||
| – | 3.3K 120p 4:2:0 10bit | 3.3K 48p 4:2:0 10bit | ||
| – | FHD 240p 4:2:2 10bit | FHD 120p 4:2:2 10bit | ||
| S&Q | 5.9K/5.8K 1-60fps | 6K/5.9K/5.8K/5.1K 1-60fps | C4K/4K/Cs4K 1-60fps | |
| C4K/4K 1-120fps | C4K/4K/Cs4K 1-120fps | C4K/4K/Cs4K 1-120fps | ||
| FHD 1-120fps | FHD 1-240fps | FHD 1-180fps | ||
| audio | 4ch | Compatible (DMW-XLR2/1) | Compatible (DMW-XLR2/1) | Compatible (DMW-XLR2/1) |
| 32bit float recording | Supported (when DMW-XLR2 is installed) | Also Supported (when DMW-XLR2 is installed) | Supported (when DMW-XLR2 is installed) | |
| XLR compatible | Compatible (DMW-XLR2) | Compatible (DMW-XLR2) | Compatible (DMW-XLR2) | |
Image stabilization, AF, and professional workflow integration
One feature common to all three models is the image stabilization function. When shooting still images, it is equipped with “5-axis 8.0-stop BIS” that strongly corrects blur even at slow shutter speeds, and “5-axis 7.0-stop Dual IS 2” that effectively suppresses blur at telephoto ranges.
When shooting video, you can use “BIS & Dual IS”, “Image Stabilization Boost”, “Active IS” and “Electronic Image Stabilization”. In addition, all three models are equipped with “Cropless Mode” which corrects peripheral distortion that is easily noticeable when using a wide-angle lens without changing the angle of view.
AI Autofocus
In addition, both cameras are equipped with an autofocus function that utilizes AI technology, which has improved accuracy in face and person recognition in particular. The AI technology that detects a person’s eyes and face makes it possible to focus more accurately on the subject’s eyes or face even in difficult situations where the subject is tilted or part of the face is hidden.
The big news is that the new auto-detection AF mode now includes an “Urban Sports” mode. In the previous auto-detection AF, there were three options for “people” detection: “eye,” “face,” and “body eye,” but now “Urban Sports” has been added.
This mode is an AI recognition function specialized for certain urban sports such as skateboarding, dance, and BMX. Although it is not a general-purpose recognition function, it was recently adopted for the Paris Olympics and is expected to be used in scenes such as dance, where the number of participants is on the rise.
Person Recognition
With conventional people recognition, there were cases where the recognition accuracy dropped when the subject’s head was tilted significantly or otherwise deviated from the normal posture. However, Urban Sports mode learns such movements and can recognize people even when they are dancing in a handstand position, enabling accurate focusing.
This mode is particularly effective when the subject’s movements are erratic and intense, and there are other people around. Its purpose is to accurately capture the subject even when the subject’s posture or stance is different from normal, or when the subject moves upside down.
High-Res Mode
All three models are equipped with a high-resolution mode for still image performance, capable of producing images equivalent to approximately 177 million pixels on the S1RII, and approximately 96 million pixels on the S1II and S1IIE.
A new feature has been added to the S1II and S1IIE: support for the HEIF recording format. In addition, the S1II and S1IIE support AI-AWB, which enables AI-based white balance adjustment during RAW development in the camera body. By using AI technology to estimate the light source and calculate and optimize the white balance gain for each subject, more natural color reproduction can be achieved even in images taken in situations where multiple light sources are mixed.
Real Time LUT
All models are also equipped with a real-time LUT function. On the camera body, you can apply LUTs, stack LUTs, save up to 39 LUTs, and support VLT and CUBE formats. By using the dedicated app, you can use functions such as creating your own LUTs, downloading creator LUTs, transferring LUTs to the LUMIX S1RII, and editing LUTs on your smartphone.
In terms of video performance, PhotoStyle’s “Cinelike A2” has been included in the S1RII, but it will now also be newly installed in the S1II and S1IIE.
Internal ProRes RAW
To enhance video performance, internal recording of ProRes RAW HQ now supports C4K60P on the S1II and S1IIE.
All three models are compatible with the photography tether software “Capture One,” which enables real-time editing during tethered shooting, smooth collaboration within a team, detailed RAW development, and efficient processing of large amounts of data.
LUMIX Flow
The S1II also supports “LUMIX Flow,” which supports video production workflows. LUMIX mode supports each process of video production, such as conception, shooting, and editing, in small-group video production.
The cameras also support Frame.io, which enables cloud-based sharing and collaboration, and supports “USB-SSD recording” for high bitrate recording and management.
The LUMIX S1RII, S1II and S1IIE also support direct transfers from an external SSD to a CFexpress Type B or SD card, making them more versatile in the field.
S1 Grade Monitors
All three models are equipped with S1 grade monitors and viewfinders, including a 3.0-inch, 1.84 million dot tilt free-angle monitor and a real viewfinder that uses a high-definition OLED panel with 5.76 million dots.
Shutter
The shutter closing system is installed in three models and has a durability of 400,000 releases. By optimizing the structure of the shutter unit and using a high-voltage, highly durable DC motor, high rigidity and precision are achieved.
Hybrid Zoom
Hybrid zoom is also available on the S1RII, S1II and S1IIE. The LUMIX S1RII is a high-pixel camera, so when zoomed in to the maximum XS, it can zoom up to 4.2x. The S1II and S1IIE have 24.2MP, so the maximum zoom ratio is 3.1x.
By recording proxy files simultaneously with the original video, it supports proxy recording, which improves the efficiency of post-production work such as data transfer and editing. It is equipped with front/rear tally lamps to inform the subject or camera operator that recording is in progress or in standby mode.
Timecode Sync
A new feature is timecode sync over Bluetooth, which will be initially supported on the S1II and S1IIE, and will be available on the S1RII via a firmware update.
Designed to operate in low-temperature environments below -10°C and tested to operate in high-temperature environments up to 40°C, it has a sealed structure for the joints, dials, and buttons, independent terminal caps and contact covers for dust and water resistance, and a lightweight, durable magnesium alloy frame, all of which make for a robust, small, lightweight body.
Battery Grip Compatibility
These cameras come compatible with the battery grip “DMW-BG2,” which provides the same operability whether held vertically or horizontally.
Extend Battery Life
It is possible to extend the battery life when using two batteries, change the use and charging order of the main battery and grip battery, and replace the battery in the grip without turning off the camera. Compatible accessories are as diverse as the other three models.
