The Panasonic Lumix S1R II marks a significant leap forward for the company, combining advanced video capabilities with impressive photography features. Priced at $3,300, this full-frame camera is not only capable of 8K video but also delivers high-resolution RAW photos at an unprecedented burst speed of 40 fps. The new autofocus system and ergonomic design improvements place it firmly in competition with Sony, Canon, and Nikon. In addition to enhanced shooting performance, the S1R II offers improved image quality, especially in low-light conditions, and supports various recording formats, including ProRes RAW and 8K video capture.
Revolutionary Design and Handling
The Lumix S1R II introduces several design changes that significantly enhance its usability and portability. Weighing 1.75 pounds, it is notably lighter and more compact than its predecessor, making it easier to handle without compromising on build quality. The camera now features one of the most comfortable grips available, providing a secure hold during extended shooting sessions. Changes to the body layout include the removal of the top display and repositioning of the mode dial to the top right, replaced by a dedicated burst mode dial and photo/video switch. These adjustments have resulted in a camera that ranks among the best in terms of handling, rivaling even the highly regarded Sony A1 II.
The rear display has been completely revamped, offering a 1.8-million-dot resolution screen that flips out and tilts for both content creators and photographers. This feature puts it on par with Sony’s A1 II, enhancing versatility. The electronic viewfinder retains its 5.76-million-dot resolution and 120Hz refresh rate but now provides a more natural 100 percent magnification. Furthermore, the S1R II supports SD UHS II and CFexpress Type B cards, as well as SSD recording via USB-C, ensuring flexibility in storage options. Additional inputs include mic, headphone, and HDMI ports, along with a 10Gbps USB-C port for fast data transfer. Battery life remains a concern, delivering around 350 shots per charge, though an optional battery grip can extend this capacity.
Enhanced Performance and Features
The S1R II showcases dramatic improvements in shooting performance, boasting burst speeds up to 40 fps (RAW 12-bit) with continuous autofocus. This is a substantial upgrade from the previous model’s modest 6 fps. Mechanical mode allows for 10 fps, while 14-bit RAW output reaches 9 fps, matching or exceeding many competitors. Panasonic has also overhauled the autofocus system, incorporating AI technology to detect and track subjects more accurately, including humans, animals, vehicles, and aircraft. Although it may not yet match the fluidity of Sony and Canon’s latest models, the S1R II comes close, offering reliable and responsive autofocus.
In terms of image quality, JPEG photos exhibit natural colors and realistic tones. High ISO performance has seen significant improvements, thanks to the dual ISO sensor that effectively controls noise up to ISO 12800. On the video front, the S1R II supports internal ProRes RAW and 8K video capture, although not simultaneously. ProRes RAW is limited to 5.8K but uses the full width of the sensor, ideal for 4K productions. 8K video is captured in 4:2:0 LongGOP MP4 format at 30 fps, with plans for external ProRes RAW recording at up to 8K via firmware updates. The updated stabilization system promises up to 8 stops of shake reduction, addressing edge distortion without cropping and supporting e-stabilization modes. Despite lacking a stacked sensor, rolling shutter effects are minimized, making the S1R II a formidable choice for videographers and photographers alike.