If you’ve been itching for a pair of powerhouse cameras tailor-made for videography, Panasonic just dropped something you’ll want to check out. Hot on the heels of the S1R II launch earlier this year, the photo experts at Lumix revealed two new full-frame hybrids: the Lumix S1 II and the Lumix S1 IIE. Both are geared squarely toward video creators, but they each bring their own flavor to the table.
While these two newcomers share the same rugged chassis, button layout, and ergonomic design as the S1R II, the real magic happens under the hood. Panasonic focused on beefing up video specs and sensor tech, making these models a dream for filmmakers and multimedia pros on the move. Jump in, and let’s break down what each of these beasts can do.
Meet the Video-Centric Lumix S1 II
The Lumix S1 II isn’t just another full-frame camera—it’s a video specialist in a compact body. At its core is a 24-megapixel partially stacked sensor, designed to slash rolling shutter artifacts when you’re panning quickly or filming fast-moving subjects. That means you get smoother footage without that dreaded jello look.
Beyond the sensor, Panasonic has amped up the dynamic range to a whopping 15 stops, so you can capture bright highlights and deep shadows in a single take. Paired with larger photosites, this sensor soaks up light like a sponge, helping you nail low-light scenes with ease. And yes, it still handles high-res stills, but the emphasis here is on motion.
On the video front, the S1 II doesn’t disappoint. You can shoot up to 5.1K at 30p in 10-bit using the entire sensor. If you’re craving that cinematic widescreen look, there’s a 6K 60p mode at a 2.4:1 aspect ratio. And for post-production fiends, the camera supports internal Apple ProRes RAW, Blackmagic BRAW, and Arri LogC3 recording. Imagine running all your footage directly into DaVinci Resolve or Final Cut without dumping on image quality.
Still photographers aren’t left out either. Thanks to its electronic shutter, the S1 II can crank out up to 70 fps in burst mode with zero blackout—ideal for action shots. If you’re more old-school, switch to the mechanical shutter and you’ll get a solid 10 fps. This thing is seriously versatile.
A More Accessible Take: Lumix S1 IIE
If you’re intrigued by the S1 II but want something a bit more budget-friendly, say hello to the Lumix S1 IIE. It keeps the same sturdy framework and button layout but streamlines a few specs to hit a friendlier price point. Don’t worry—you still get professional-grade video features, just with a few compromises.
The S1 IIE uses a standard 24-megapixel sensor rather than the stacked variety. That means rolling shutter is a bit more noticeable, and you won’t quite hit the same 15-stop dynamic range. But it still delivers sharp, full-frame imagery and handles most lighting situations without breaking a sweat.
When it comes to frame rates, the S1 IIE can fire off 30 fps in electronic shutter burst mode. Not bad at all for shoots where split-second timing matters. And for video, you still get RAW formats, widescreen cinema ratios, and Log profiles. The highlight? A 6K open-gate mode at 30p in 10-bit. It’s perfect for creative cropping or stabilizing in post.
All in all, the S1 IIE strikes a neat balance: you lose a fraction of the dynamic range and sensor speed, but you keep most of the pro-level video toolkit. If you’re launching a YouTube channel or shooting indie films, this model might be your new best friend.
Fresh Software Perks via Firmware Update
On top of the hardware, Panasonic introduced some slick software features that both new models ship with out of the box—and yes, they’ll be coming to the S1R II via a paid firmware update. First up is UVC webcam mode, so you can plug these cameras directly into your laptop for ultra-crisp live streams or Zoom calls. No capture card required.
For autofocus, there’s a new “Urban Sports” mode that locks onto skateboarders, parkour athletes, and other fast-moving street performers. It’s a neat addition if your work revolves around high-energy content. Plus, you’ll find HEIF still capture, automatic CFexpress-to-SSD file duplication, and a handful of quality-of-life improvements that streamline both photo and video workflows.
Panasonic is clearly listening to creators. By offering these features across the S1 II, S1 IIE, and soon the S1R II, they’re building a cohesive ecosystem. Whether you’re upgrading from an older Lumix or jumping in for the first time, you’ll get a consistent user experience and a growing toolset.
Pricing and Availability
If you’re ready to pull the trigger, both cameras will be available in the US starting June. The Lumix S1 II body will retail for $4,399, or you can grab a kit with the Lumix S 24–105mm F/4.0 lens for the same price. It’s a solid deal if you need a versatile zoom right out of the box.
The Lumix S1 IIE body is set at $2,799, and the bundle with the 24–105mm F/4.0 lens goes for $3,699. That puts it squarely in the competitive zone for full-frame hybrids aimed at prosumers and indie filmmakers. Considering what you’re getting—robust builds, professional codecs, and a full-frame sensor—both models deliver excellent bang for your buck.
All told, Panasonic’s Lumix S1 II and S1 IIE prove that full-frame hybrids can excel in video without sacrificing still-image quality. If you’re in the market for a new video setup or want to step into full-frame storytelling, these cameras deserve a close look.
