Panasonic launches S1II and S1IIE mirrorless full-frame cameras

By Mike O'Connor & Tim Levy | 16 May 2025

Panasonic has announced two new mirrorless full frame cameras, the $4,199 Lumix S1IIE and the $5,299 Lumix S1II.

Image: Panasonic/supplied
Image: Panasonic/supplied

Panasonic has been busy releasing new cameras lately, and as a result the company's product line is getting pretty dense. It only recently released the S1R II (see review here), and yet we now have two further S cameras, each serving different needs. 

The new S1II is for professionals and enthusiasts that are more video focused and prefer the speed, low light and dynamic range performance of a 6K 24.1MP partially stacked sensor,

The S1IIE is designed for users that love the sensor capabilities of the S5IIX but appreciate the S1 grade camera body that adds features like internal RAW recording and new full width 50/60p Cinemascope recording

The S1II

The LUMIX S1II comes with a newly designed 24.1MP full-frame CMOS sensor and uses Panasonic’s updated Venus Engine for faster data processing. This allows for high frame rate recording, including 4K at 120p and 5.8K at 60p.

A Dynamic Range Boost mode is available, offering up to 15 stops of dynamic range in V-Log when shooting at 30p or lower. The camera also supports continuous stills shooting at up to 70fps, with a pre-burst feature that captures up to 1.5 seconds before the shutter is pressed – useful for catching brief, spontaneous moments.

The S1II also brings workflow improvements aimed at users who need flexibility in post-production. The Open Gate feature now supports additional formats beyond 6K30p – including 5.1K 60p. A future firmware update is set to add multiple frame marker displays to assist with more accurate framing during shoots.

The Lumix S1II body will set you back $5,299.

Image: Panasonic/supplied
Image: Panasonic/supplied

 

Image: Panasonic/supplied
Image: Panasonic/supplied

The S1IIE

The LUMIX S1IIE is the latest addition to Panasonic’s second-generation S1 series. It shares the same body design and layout as the S1II and S1RII, and uses a 24.2MP sensor with similarities to the one found in the S5II, aimed at delivering solid performance across a range of shooting scenarios.

Many of the features from the S1II have been carried over, making the S1IIE a practical option for a variety of creative uses. A new addition is support for the Cinemascope (2.4:1) video format, available at multiple frame rates up to 60p, without any cropping.

It offers 14+ stops of dynamic range in V-Log, as well as supporting 6K 30p (3:2) open gate video recording.
On the stills side, it can shoot 30fps in electronic shutter mode, and 10fps with mechanical.

The S1IIE starts at $4,199. 

Image: Panasonic/supplied
Image: Panasonic/supplied

Common Features of the LUMIX S1II and S1IIE

Improved core performance designed for flexibility in creative work

  • Updated real-time Phase Hybrid AF now includes better eye and face detection, along with AI-based tracking that improves accuracy when filming or photographing people.

  • A new autofocus mode for ‘Urban Sports’ has been added, aimed at capturing fast, unpredictable motion such as breakdancing, skateboarding and parkour.

  • In-body image stabilisation has been improved to 8 stops, and a newly developed electronic image stabilisation feature helps correct video distortion without cropping the frame.

  • ARRI LogC3 is supported for the first time in the S series when using the optional DMW-SFU3A Software Upgrade Key (sold separately).

  • Internal recording of Apple ProRes RAW HQ and ProRes RAW is supported in 5.8K 30p and C4K 60p to a CFexpress Type B card.

Reliability and functionality

  • Features a high-resolution 5.76 million-dot electronic viewfinder and a flexible 1.84 million-dot tilt and free-angle rear screen. The shutter is rated for up to 400,000 actuations.

  • Designed to operate in temperatures as low as -10°C.

  • Dual card slots support both SD and CFexpress Type B media.

  • Compatible with accessories like the DMW-BG2 battery grip and DMW-XLR2 audio interface.

Workflow support through apps and software

  • Works with Capture One, allowing for smooth integration into professional studio photography setups.

  • Supports Frame.io for efficient editing, cloud storage, and team collaboration.

  • Compatible with the LUMIX Lab app, making it easy to transfer files, edit content, and apply custom colour profiles for use on smartphones and social media.

  • LUMIX Flow helps with storyboard development, on-set checking, and automatic file organisation during and after video shoots.

  • Version 1.5 firmware adds support for HEIF file formats.

  • Version 1.1 firmware adds wireless connectivity, waveform monitor, vectorscope, false colour assist features, and a mirroring monitor function.

  • Users can save and transfer separate settings for photo and video modes via SD card, making it easier to maintain consistent settings across multiple LUMIX cameras.

Both the S1II and S1IIE and a new Lumix S 24-60mm F2.8 lens will be available in Australia in June.

Find out more on the Australian Panasonic website.

The LUMIX S 24-60mm F2.8.
The LUMIX S 24-60mm F2.8.