Panasonic Lumix S5 II Review: Affordable Full-Frame with Phase Detection AF
Panasonic Lumix S5 II Review: Affordable Full-Frame with Phase Detection AF The landscape of mirrorless cameras shifted significantly with the release of the Panasonic Lumix S5 II. For years, Lumix fans and professional videographers praised Panasonic for their industry-leading color science, robust build quality, and class-leading video features. However, one persistent hurdle remained: the reliance on Contrast Detection autofocus. With the introduction of the S5 II, Panasonic finally embraced Phase Hybrid AF, creating what is arguably the most versatile and affordable full-frame hybrid camera on the market today. The Evolution of the Lumix S Series The original Lumix S5 was a beloved compact full-frame camera, but it often felt like a "niche" tool for those who didn't mind pulling focus manually. The S5 II changes that narrative entirely. By integrating 779 phase-detection points onto a newly developed 24.2-megapixel CMOS sensor, Panasonic has moved from being a special...