I had a tough decision to choose between the A74 vs the Lumix S5ii, but thanks to you I will go with the Lumix. With the 500$ difference, I can buy a nice prime lense like the 85mm 1.8. Panasonic finally nailed the AF.
It depend on what you use, video or picture. For video, then you should go towards Lumix S5ii but for picture, then you should go A74. Not saying Lumix S5ii can't take a better pictures, just saying why wasting time using S5ii for photo instead of taking video. It be like taking Sony FX30 only solely use for taking picture. The funny part is comparing S5ii to A74 is a bit off as FX30 just came out and its AF is still as good as S5ii. He didn't try to comparing A7S3 for low light, which in my option S5ii did a better job. I even surprise that he using the old Tamron 28-75 mark 1 which is slower than mark 2. There's a video error at 4:30 stating as A7V?? Another thing is using 85mm?? Who the F using 85mm for video? Most users will use zoom lens to save time and flexibility(space issue) but if you still want to buy prime lens. Then buy VESPID 90mm macro and VESPID 35mm for wider angle. The last thing I want to hear from you is screaming that you can't shoot because of tight space or unable to get even closer to your subject because of minimum focus.
The way Panasonic released PDAF is honestly the better way, imo. If they've been working on this for a few years, let's say they released a janky version of PDAF on the S5, it would damage their reputation further and they'd be known as having bad PDAF. Now they come out swinging hard and all this hype and competition is created. Very cool and very exciting time for mirrorless cameras! Thanks for everything Josh, and for helping me and others on the Lumix journey for years!
I completely agree , they've waited and done it right the first time without messing about. It's totally unbelievable how good this AF System is already! Thanks for supporting the channel Corey, genuinely appreciate it!
The thing I really appreciate about the S5 ii autofocus is that they seem to have made sure that focus transitions even at full speed feel organic. Sony's autofocus feels like autofocus, where as the Panasonic autofocus feels like there is still a human making the focus change. I've seen people have more or less success when comparing these two cameras and honestly that probably just means they are about the same in terms of responsiveness and accuracy and it just comes down to what you are familiar with using and, from my eye, what looks more aesthetically pleasing. Thanks for the video!
This was impressive!! Panasonic finally catching up and seems better than some situations. I've always thought that if Panasonic develops their AF into a competitive level, Sony would be sweating.
Impressive. I had the A7iv and sold it for the FX30 because of its filmmaking tools. But, the S5ii could change that - again. I actually started out with the Panasonic GH5. And I've always preferred Panasonic skin tones compared to most other brands. Your autofocus tests in this video were very telling. The AF of the S5ii seemed to have smoother transitions between focus points. Whereas the A7iv seemed to jump between focus points. If I were to switch, I would probably wait for the S5iiX because of the additional features like recording to an SSD and ProRes RAW externally. Excellent comparison video. Happy 2023.
I have also started with the gh5 and that camera is super good. I sold it and kept a7iii for client work..af, photo quality / easier to get it done... But this S5ii has so many good features that blows my mind like gh5 did back in the day .. and no other camera have done it..
Feel like a mug for buying into the Sony A7 iv system just before this new S5 was announced because I wanted AF for close ups filming concerts. I already own 3 S5s, might sell 2 and replace it with a new S5 ii x when it appears instead of replacing them with fx30s! Thanks for the videos.
Thanks for your comparison Josh. The introduction of DPAF/ hybrid AF is such a huge step forward for the LUMIX brand and can only be positive for all video focused creators; directly or indirectly. There has never been more competition between full frame camera manufacturers since the dawn of the digital era! I’m still adjusting to the new world order where LUMIX AF is viewed as a competitive peer alongside Sony and Canon! As you suggest, after a firmware update or two if there is any gap it will surely be closed.
Hey Luke, cheers for checking this one out. Yeah it's crazy, I'd even go as far as saying that they're already neck and neck with Sony now in terms of AF (at least from the thousands of tests I've done)! It's going to make people think twice about spending double on Sony cameras now I hope....
@@JoshCameron Cheers Josh. Any weaknesses seem to be at the margins. You are probably across this but here is my summary of some of the findings of some reviewers regarding video CAF (all are pretty extreme scenarios): - Birds in flight: using a Sigma super telephoto lens the camera sometimes locked on to complex backgrounds rather than a bird in flight in the foreground (Northrops). - Minor pulsing in the background at high ISOs (magnification needed to spot): presumably DFD steps in to assist if phase detection fails (Northrops) - At exposures of -4, not as good as A7SIII (Gerald Undone) - Face identified (per focus box/cross hairs) but failed to focus on face in a low light night street environment (Potato Jet). - Pulsing / wobbles in detailed high contrast section of a frame which was otherwise in focus (DSLR Shooter/ Caleb P). What I’m really excited about is that it seems the Sigma MC21 EF to L Mount adapter enables CAF in video to work with EF lenses (per Richard Wong and Caleb H and others). That is big news. I haven’t seen any other camera (other than RF cameras of course) enable video CAF ‘like native’ (excluding IS) with EF lenses. I checked with Richard and he also isn’t aware of any others. That functionality makes the S5 II a unique viable option for EF lens owners who haven’t locked into the RF system. All we need now is for an EF to L mount adapter with drop in filters. I have messaged a query to Fotodiox about the performance of their EF to L mount adapter with a VND filter mounted on the S5 II. No response yet.
AF is a critical feature, but there are so many other stories to tell about this new camera. Real Time Custom Luts. The best stabilization in the industry. BAKED IN LUTS in the camera. Over 100 lenses available from Leica, Panasonic, and Sigma, plus a lot of others, including some anamorphic lenses. Full size HDMI, wave forms, vector scopes, zebras, four channel audio, wide range pre-amps, unlimited recording, USB Power Delivery, external recording options, dual SDXC II card slots, streaming video features, and more... I'm a Micro 4/3 user, though, and can't wait until Lumix releases PDAF-equipped GH and G models. They also need to put PDAF in new versions of the S1, S1R, and S1H models, along with updated stabilization and other features. Their future's so bright, we need lens shades...
I know I am late to the party as I have only just caught up with this video but you have now convinced me to buy the S5 ii. I am already a Lumix user as I have the GX80 which served me well but I need to step up to a full frame camera and so I have been looking for a few months and about 1000 TH-cam videos! I was nearly going down the SONY route as so many TH-camrs have commented that they feel the Sony had the edge in AF but I think your video has convinced me otherwise. I Like Panasonic gear and their incredible user friendly interface and wanted to stick with them. Now I have seen your AF demonstrations my mind is now made up. Thanks so much for doing this video Josh, I will now be following you closely and catching up on all your others.
Man, I've been suing Panasonic cameras since the Lumix G7, I got the S5 in 2021 and I will definitely be getting the S5ii or S5iiX this year. Amazing comparison video man.
Thanks for all the hard (Lumix) work. I have an S5II on order, its been a wait, but NIrvana has come ... I can trust autofocus for 2nd Cam gimbal work.
@@ThePistonPit If the S5IIX were available now, I would get that. I cannot wait for that until May/June. The S5II is extremely capable with V-LOG for web video and interactive content, and more than good enough for most jobs. For pure ProRes jobs the S5IIX would be a more suitable for high end demands.
My gear policy is “best in class” for the most part independent of manufacturer and to my eyes the Lumix autofocus feels more organic. I don’t know if they ramp the autofocus throws to be slow at the beginning, fast in the middle and slow at completion or how they do it but the Lumix focus racking feels more natural to me. Excellent demonstration. 👍
@@JoshCameron Yesssss please do this test! Especially with the 85mm 1.8 with portraits. Does it consistently get the eyes when importing onto the computer... that's what I want to know! I'm looking for a 50/50 photo/video camera and if the S5-II is good at this I'll buy it.
Wow! Lumix S5 mark II is amazing😎💯✨ As always, this is one of the best illustration/demonstration/comparison on TH-cam, bro💯✨ Cheers from Bangalore, India🙂💯✨
Thanks for the video. I already own an A7IV an A7Siii and a BS1H, I bought an S5ii, had it for 2 weeks then returned it for a refund. I loved the S5ii but in my humble opinion, Sony makes a better camera.
I ended up buying the A7 Iv additionally to my S5 (mark I) because Panasonic couldn’t bring themselves to announce the new AF earlier, although I had no love for the Sony. However, there is quite a lot more that makes the A7 iv a better camera in some areas than the S5, especially in the lens line up. So, while I’m super happy Panasonic have finally done it, I’m also almost angry because had to buy into a different system because I really needed reliable AF for two ver hybrid jobs with no second takes. Now I can’t justify spending more of my budget on the mark ii.
@Josh Cameron Yeah, sorry I should've been more clear! I meant if you'd make a more in depth comparison between the S5 II and the FX30! I'm a Panasonic shooter with 2 x S5's and a GH5 but I'm almost tipping to going Sony because of the FX-line. I really like those cinema-style bodies and that you have the option to go for a FX6 when needed. Panasonic doesn't have a FX6 equivalent camera as of today.. But I know you're a Lumix shooter so I won't hold my breath for such a comparison! Thanks for making great content!
Thanks for doing this Josh. Really impressive from Panasonic, feels more organic than the Sony to me which is a big win. Also, as usual I just prefer the image quite clearly over the Sony. The rolling shutter on the S5ii for the shot moving from one lens to another around 4:20 is disappointing though. Out of all the massive improvements from the original S5 to the mkII two things bother me: rolling shutter is one, and the other is a complete lack of cinema camera plans from Panasonic. They have nailed one of the most beautiful images in a really affordable camera, so it feels so disappointing that there is no ‘A-Cam’ as such if you want to work with more buttons, XLR’s, bigger batteries and internal ND. Who knows…maybe they’ll do it one day.
Yeah I agree regarding the AF, it does act a little more “human” compared to the overly clinical look. Rolling shutter is of course a burden for a lot of cameras at this price point. I do agree that seeing a faster readout speed would be awesome, and again maybe that’s something they’re saving for the flagship lineup. After all, it’s a 24mp 6K full frame sensor , so I can imagine the processing power needed for dramatic rolling shutter performance improvement would be quite beefy. They’re onto something here though, for £2K you’d be hard done by to find anything remotely close to this! Thanks for watching dude, I appreciate it 🙏🏼
@@JoshCameron Yes agreed I don't think there is anything better at this price point. I'd definitely go for the X version, a small price to pay for the extra features. Will see if a need comes up but for anyone in the market now it will be an amazing camera.
@@ign_rain3442 Yeah - I don't understand how for the last 2 years, with how overhyped Sony's AF system has been, nobody ever mentioned what I've noticed from the start: how while mostly accurate, Sony's autofocus is so jittery and sudden. Panasonic's DFD AF system has always been less accurate, but always with more smooth and organic feeling pulls. Now that Panasonic has adopted Phase detection, the smoothness of their focus pulls combined with now better accuracy than even Sony, I believe they have market-leading autofocus.
I’m a long term Sony user and am very impressed with the way the Linux handled everything! I started out on Lumix (G9 & S1) and have been waiting for them to release something with solid autofocus so I can go back and enjoy the wonderful user experience and ergonomics. One thing I haven’t seen yet from demos is whether you can punch in to check focus while recording. Is it possible yet?
What L mount lens do you recommend? I'm interested in the ecosystem because of the gh5 ii. I'm on e mount right now using an a7c. I was looking at the lumix 1.8 primes, but they seem soft.
Very good video! One of the few videos I don't want at 1.5x speed bit at the regular 1.0x I knew the S5 II had good AF but this is insanely good for version 1 !!! I have the regular S5 which I am learning to operate but for Black Friday 2023 I have set my sights on S5 II X! Or if Panasonic release an S1 with flip out screen and 4K60p with no crop for less than 3000 $€£
@@JoshCameron I was thinking whether to buy a second body of the S5 Mark I at a heavy discount. (I got a very good deal on my S5 in 2022. 2000 Euro for the body, 20-60 kit lens and the Panasonic 35mm f/1.8 Basically both lenses were free) However the S5 Mark II is so good I will wait! I will learn on the “old” tech and will be pleasantly surprised when I get the new and improved one. I feel that learning on the old AF system will make me a better video shooter and will help me take advantage of the S5 II X I am subscribed to your channel so looking forward to new content!
Thank you Em! I think the lens didn't help - I know that the 24mm G Master suffers from bad focus breathing which is unacceptable given its huge price tag!
So pumped for this camera. Just waiting for someone to buy all my m4/3 gear so I can order one 😅 already have and LOVE the S5 but this auto focus will be so helpful for weddings
@@JoshCameron yeah I agree. Just hoping there are still enough users to get some money out of my gear lol it was a wonderful budget entry into filmmaking though
I have s5iix and PDAF to me still has some issues, but I feel that it is not because the hardware not great, just Panasonic haven"t figured out the software/algorithm yet. It feels more like buggy, not "bad performance".
Hi Josh! I’ve been watching your videos last few days about S5ii and L mount and they’re so helpful, I’ve learned a lot, thanks! I’m recently considering switching system to Panasonic or Sony, and the thing I wanna know the most about the autofocus, is that ‘how well could they perform on focusing on MOVING HANDS only.’ I shoot piano performance videos with no face but only hands movement, and I’ve been using MF on my GH5 or XT4 for lifetime and really wanna know if S5ii or A74 could do AF on this?
nice video, but why isn't anyone making a dedicated video to how panasonic behaves in its other AF modes; it would be nice to see the focus tracking for instance and how it compares to sony's tracking, as this is a feature that is very useful for people who actually work with their cameras, shoot events and stuff... not just filming themselves for youtube videos. If you make such a video, you'll be one of the first, as noone seems to be testing the cameras for real life applications. Thanks :)
Hey Josh another great video I shoot on S5 shoot weddings and not always 100% reliable have you used the S5mk2 at night in low light performance? I had a terrible experience shooting S5 4k 25p in lowlight AF couldnt hold at 1.8
quite pleasantly surprised by the improvements in the S5ii. One correction though, the a7iv uses modern AF system, however the latest and greatest is the new AI assisted AF in the A7R5... =P Already bought into the Sony system with the a7IV, FX30 and ZV1 and a bunch of glass, but looking at picking up S5ii or s5iix as a C cam or A cam when we need to do open gate recording for multi platform content. Great videos. Now decisions, what Panasonic glass... too bad cannot adapt Sony glass?
Well to be completely fair, the Sigma used on the Panasonic has a much better focusing motor than the Tamron 28-75 mk1. The MK2 would be a better match.
How to focus is a great feature but still like really obsessing over it is It ultimately comes down to the image you know if both cameras have great autofocus that's great and all but the image rain supreme the more you closer you can get to something like an Arri or a red that's the camera that's going to win
Thank you for your video! What picture profile do you use for the test? Color seems very similar ! And also the skin tones...log profile and lots or something else? Thank you!!
I used SLOG3 for the Sony and VLOG for the Lumix. I converted the footage to Rec709 using the same conversion LUT (I know, I'm a bad boy), and then just corrected as close to each other as I could :)
Superb Josh, thanks for doing this; super useful as was chopping in an S1 for just 1 Sony A7iv for stills, gave S1 bodies and an S5 body a fair trial and shot all of 2022 on them mainly stills, I managed it fine for weddings but missed some key moments, or less than ideal frames of key moments that I know a Sony would have nailed. - so, how is the stills AF vs A7iv? Video, no comparison for me, still super happy using S1 or S5mk1 for video and manual focus.
Hi! Great video as always! Have you had the opportunity to test an EF lens with the MC-21 adapter? I come from this setup with a S5 and having AF on an EF lens would be amazing
These kind of tests only show you AF speeds. The problem with Panasonics dfd system wasn't just speed, it was the AF pulsing that occurred after it had achieved focus. When doing an interview with someone who was seated, the AF would "pulse" back and forth very slightly every so often. (Fixed by switching to MF of course) this is what made the AF unreliable. Have you checked to see if this issue has been fixed?
Hi Josh, good video. What I would like to see is a panning shot comparison. I recently saw dpreview do this with the Fujifilm xh2 or Xh2s and that was not smooth at all.
omg I prefer the focus shift in lumix, and it works too fast. but perhaps still need to test under more difficult conditions. I really can't wait for s5iix XD
With out having watched this video though I already have my opinion based on all the videos I have seen of the S5ii.... Sony still leads, but wont for long. This is Panasonic's first release version and its almost a dead ringer for Sony's AF. Panasonic leads the way in improving there cameras over time with firmware. Panasonic has finally packed a BIG punch. This is a camera that sits at the of comparison list now. The only thing holding this camera back truely is 60fps in 4k Full Frame. If the S1ii comes out and make as many improvements as this on has it, WILL BE THE CAMERA TO BEAT. This camera is perfectly suited for the pro getting started to middle size, the beginner, novice and any one who just wants a good camera. They knocked it out of the park. Truly gave everything you need, be that with a pulled punches to keep the price down. If it had 4k 60p FF it would not be sitting at 2000$. that's why its not there.
I agree with every single word of this. For those who have complained so far about the lack of FF 4K 60p, I think they need to realise that for $2000, this camera still packs so much more than everything else at this price point. The A7siii can do 4K 60, but that's a camera that costs almost double and only had a 12mp sensor. This camera is 24mp, so getting 60fps readout on the entire width of the sensor would mean some serious processing. Thanks for watching dude!
@@JoshCameron Love your stuff. I believe you where the first person I subscribed to because the content is what it should be. Thanks for not filling time with just fluff.
Great test mate. The Sony was a bit faster. Like many TH-camrs say there is not a bad camera these days, it comes down to a matter preference. The Sony was a little bit faster only in a side by side comparison test like yours. In the real world negligible and unnoticeable. Great job, 👍👌👍
Thank you for your fantastics videos ! I heard that the lumix 50 1.4 have difficulties to focus with the new S5 II. Do you have the opportunity to compare it to the 50 1.8 ? That would be great ! Thank you.
@@JoshCameron Thank you very much ! According to The Slanted Lens, the AF-C of the 50 1.4 is not great (th-cam.com/video/z5XkGblUYGI/w-d-xo.html) but this video shows otherwise th-cam.com/video/wAQ0zzKPtXI/w-d-xo.html
Yes you can if you use the tracking AF mode! Got a whole video coming out on the various AF modes on the S5ii and when to use them :) keep an eye out for it!
Impressive AF tests. Look's like Sony's got to up its game. Lumix isn't playing the ostrich game of overheating with their new ff cameras. Hey, competition, wake up! 😎😎
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I had a tough decision to choose between the A74 vs the Lumix S5ii, but thanks to you I will go with the Lumix. With the 500$ difference, I can buy a nice prime lense like the 85mm 1.8. Panasonic finally nailed the AF.
You can get a a7iv for 2000
Get the s5iix if you want ProRes or easy to edit all intra codes
@@Trillavision where? 😂
It depend on what you use, video or picture. For video, then you should go towards Lumix S5ii but for picture, then you should go A74. Not saying Lumix S5ii can't take a better pictures, just saying why wasting time using S5ii for photo instead of taking video. It be like taking Sony FX30 only solely use for taking picture.
The funny part is comparing S5ii to A74 is a bit off as FX30 just came out and its AF is still as good as S5ii. He didn't try to comparing A7S3 for low light, which in my option S5ii did a better job.
I even surprise that he using the old Tamron 28-75 mark 1 which is slower than mark 2. There's a video error at 4:30 stating as A7V??
Another thing is using 85mm?? Who the F using 85mm for video? Most users will use zoom lens to save time and flexibility(space issue) but if you still want to buy prime lens. Then buy VESPID 90mm macro and VESPID 35mm for wider angle.
The last thing I want to hear from you is screaming that you can't shoot because of tight space or unable to get even closer to your subject because of minimum focus.
@@Trillavision i got it secondhand in korea a7m4 about 1580 dollars
The way Panasonic released PDAF is honestly the better way, imo. If they've been working on this for a few years, let's say they released a janky version of PDAF on the S5, it would damage their reputation further and they'd be known as having bad PDAF. Now they come out swinging hard and all this hype and competition is created. Very cool and very exciting time for mirrorless cameras! Thanks for everything Josh, and for helping me and others on the Lumix journey for years!
I completely agree , they've waited and done it right the first time without messing about. It's totally unbelievable how good this AF System is already!
Thanks for supporting the channel Corey, genuinely appreciate it!
The thing I really appreciate about the S5 ii autofocus is that they seem to have made sure that focus transitions even at full speed feel organic. Sony's autofocus feels like autofocus, where as the Panasonic autofocus feels like there is still a human making the focus change. I've seen people have more or less success when comparing these two cameras and honestly that probably just means they are about the same in terms of responsiveness and accuracy and it just comes down to what you are familiar with using and, from my eye, what looks more aesthetically pleasing. Thanks for the video!
Thats true for video, however S5ii seems to do that in photo mode as well, maybe its the slow lens motor. But for photo, speed is more important.
Agreed
This was impressive!! Panasonic finally catching up and seems better than some situations. I've always thought that if Panasonic develops their AF into a competitive level, Sony would be sweating.
well today is that day! Let’s see what happens over the next year 👀
Impressive. I had the A7iv and sold it for the FX30 because of its filmmaking tools. But, the S5ii could change that - again. I actually started out with the Panasonic GH5. And I've always preferred Panasonic skin tones compared to most other brands. Your autofocus tests in this video were very telling. The AF of the S5ii seemed to have smoother transitions between focus points. Whereas the A7iv seemed to jump between focus points. If I were to switch, I would probably wait for the S5iiX because of the additional features like recording to an SSD and ProRes RAW externally.
Excellent comparison video. Happy 2023.
It's time to come back home to Lumix 😉 Haha yes the S5iix is going to be incredible, can't wait for that one either :)
I have also started with the gh5 and that camera is super good. I sold it and kept a7iii for client work..af, photo quality / easier to get it done... But this S5ii has so many good features that blows my mind like gh5 did back in the day
.. and no other camera have done it..
Changed a 1 year old camera to a two month camera and now you considering to change it again? Pfff...what a waste
Feel like a mug for buying into the Sony A7 iv system just before this new S5 was announced because I wanted AF for close ups filming concerts. I already own 3 S5s, might sell 2 and replace it with a new S5 ii x when it appears instead of replacing them with fx30s! Thanks for the videos.
That would be a killer combo! 2x S5’s and an S5iix 👌🏻
Thanks Josh, I was waiting for someone to show AF with Sigma glass.
Glad I could be the one to deliver it! Thanks dude :)
Thanks for your comparison Josh. The introduction of DPAF/ hybrid AF is such a huge step forward for the LUMIX brand and can only be positive for all video focused creators; directly or indirectly. There has never been more competition between full frame camera manufacturers since the dawn of the digital era!
I’m still adjusting to the new world order where LUMIX AF is viewed as a competitive peer alongside Sony and Canon! As you suggest, after a firmware update or two if there is any gap it will surely be closed.
Hey Luke, cheers for checking this one out.
Yeah it's crazy, I'd even go as far as saying that they're already neck and neck with Sony now in terms of AF (at least from the thousands of tests I've done)! It's going to make people think twice about spending double on Sony cameras now I hope....
@@JoshCameron Cheers Josh. Any weaknesses seem to be at the margins. You are probably across this but here is my summary of some of the findings of some reviewers regarding video CAF (all are pretty extreme scenarios):
- Birds in flight: using a Sigma super telephoto lens the camera sometimes locked on to complex backgrounds rather than a bird in flight in the foreground (Northrops).
- Minor pulsing in the background at high ISOs (magnification needed to spot): presumably DFD steps in to assist if phase detection fails (Northrops)
- At exposures of -4, not as good as A7SIII (Gerald Undone)
- Face identified (per focus box/cross hairs) but failed to focus on face in a low light night street environment (Potato Jet).
- Pulsing / wobbles in detailed high contrast section of a frame which was otherwise in focus (DSLR Shooter/ Caleb P).
What I’m really excited about is that it seems the Sigma MC21 EF to L Mount adapter enables CAF in video to work with EF lenses (per Richard Wong and Caleb H and others). That is big news. I haven’t seen any other camera (other than RF cameras of course) enable video CAF ‘like native’ (excluding IS) with EF lenses. I checked with Richard and he also isn’t aware of any others. That functionality makes the S5 II a unique viable option for EF lens owners who haven’t locked into the RF system.
All we need now is for an EF to L mount adapter with drop in filters. I have messaged a query to Fotodiox about the performance of their EF to L mount adapter with a VND filter mounted on the S5 II. No response yet.
AF is a critical feature, but there are so many other stories to tell about this new camera. Real Time Custom Luts. The best stabilization in the industry. BAKED IN LUTS in the camera. Over 100 lenses available from Leica, Panasonic, and Sigma, plus a lot of others, including some anamorphic lenses. Full size HDMI, wave forms, vector scopes, zebras, four channel audio, wide range pre-amps, unlimited recording, USB Power Delivery, external recording options, dual SDXC II card slots, streaming video features, and more... I'm a Micro 4/3 user, though, and can't wait until Lumix releases PDAF-equipped GH and G models. They also need to put PDAF in new versions of the S1, S1R, and S1H models, along with updated stabilization and other features. Their future's so bright, we need lens shades...
I know I am late to the party as I have only just caught up with this video but you have now convinced me to buy the S5 ii. I am already a Lumix user as I have the GX80 which served me well but I need to step up to a full frame camera and so I have been looking for a few months and about 1000 TH-cam videos! I was nearly going down the SONY route as so many TH-camrs have commented that they feel the Sony had the edge in AF but I think your video has convinced me otherwise. I Like Panasonic gear and their incredible user friendly interface and wanted to stick with them. Now I have seen your AF demonstrations my mind is now made up. Thanks so much for doing this video Josh, I will now be following you closely and catching up on all your others.
You are literally delivering every single video I want to see! Great work mate. 👏🏼
Man, I've been suing Panasonic cameras since the Lumix G7, I got the S5 in 2021 and I will definitely be getting the S5ii or S5iiX this year. Amazing comparison video man.
Thanks dude 👊🏼 you’re gonna love the new cams!
Lumix really killed it with this AF, i hope they add some more objects for AF tracking. I’m Ordering s5ll :)
Наконец то теперь на новом S5II вполне рабочий АФ. Теперь думаю продать свой S5 и купить S5II. Спасибо за видео! Привет из России!
Thanks for all the hard (Lumix) work. I have an S5II on order, its been a wait, but NIrvana has come ... I can trust autofocus for 2nd Cam gimbal work.
What made you choose the 5ii instead of the X?
@@ThePistonPit If the S5IIX were available now, I would get that. I cannot wait for that until May/June. The S5II is extremely capable with V-LOG for web video and interactive content, and more than good enough for most jobs. For pure ProRes jobs the S5IIX would be a more suitable for high end demands.
Cheers John - the S5ii is going to be my gimbal camera too. I have full trust in the AF system so won’t need to use a servo focus anymore 🥳
My gear policy is “best in class” for the most part independent of manufacturer and to my eyes the Lumix autofocus feels more organic. I don’t know if they ramp the autofocus throws to be slow at the beginning, fast in the middle and slow at completion or how they do it but the Lumix focus racking feels more natural to me. Excellent demonstration. 👍
Glad, that you do the Autofocus Tests without Ninja V or similar, because HDMI screen recording changes AF performance.
I thought about doing it, but decided against it!
So one thing I like is in the first comparison scene the Panasonic colors are just so nice. So glad they have a much better autofocus now.
Love the new room set up Josh. Also thanks for the comparisons, that autofocus look snappy af,. Stoked to give it a try once the S5iix comes out
Thanks dude 🙏🏼 something different for the new year. The S5iix is one that a lot of people are waiting for and I don’t blame them !
@@JoshCameron Great call on the switch up! Yeah, $300 CAD for that upgrade is so worth waiting 3 more months. You still playing drums?
Great video 🙂 it would be interesting to see an AF-C comparison for photo
I'll defo do this once the RAW's are supported by Lightroom :)
@@JoshCameron Yesssss please do this test! Especially with the 85mm 1.8 with portraits. Does it consistently get the eyes when importing onto the computer... that's what I want to know! I'm looking for a 50/50 photo/video camera and if the S5-II is good at this I'll buy it.
The Sony A74 alongside the Panasonic S5 Mark ii and Panasonic S5 Mark 2 X are on my list I like how the camera companies are being competitive
It’s pushing the tech more forward with each release… much better for us consumers 👌🏻
Very impressive indeed. No doubt Lumix is the king.. keep going
Finaly!!! This was the moment I was waiting for!!! Perfect autofocus from Lumix!!! Now the world is a better place!!
Fantastic camera, great video. Thank You. It's the camera I have been waiting for.
Thank you for watching :)
Wow! Lumix S5 mark II is amazing😎💯✨
As always, this is one of the best illustration/demonstration/comparison on TH-cam, bro💯✨
Cheers from Bangalore, India🙂💯✨
Thanks mate! As always I appreciate you watching and taking the time to comment 👊🏼
The Lumix S5II looks a lot nicer for AF transitions. Much smoother and natural, even on max speed!
I agree!
Just ordered from Clifton cameras, interest free credit, the auto focus looks superb, nice video Josh, well done.
Hopefully they start shipping soon!
The S5ii is the new king!
Thanks for the video. I already own an A7IV an A7Siii and a BS1H, I bought an S5ii, had it for 2 weeks then returned it for a refund. I loved the S5ii but in my humble opinion, Sony makes a better camera.
Very interesting comparison, great to see an in use, side by side test. Great work Josh
Cheers mate!
I ended up buying the A7 Iv additionally to my S5 (mark I) because Panasonic couldn’t bring themselves to announce the new AF earlier, although I had no love for the Sony. However, there is quite a lot more that makes the A7 iv a better camera in some areas than the S5, especially in the lens line up. So, while I’m super happy Panasonic have finally done it, I’m also almost angry because had to buy into a different system because I really needed reliable AF for two ver hybrid jobs with no second takes. Now I can’t justify spending more of my budget on the mark ii.
Haha I died when you almost puked when holding the A7IV 😂
Could you get your hands on a FX30 aswell? 🤩
It really does feel wrong after shooting Panasonic. My wife is a Canon shooter and it like a whole new world picking it up.
I can definitely try my best, although I'm sure the results will be very similar to this :) haha Thanks dude!
@Josh Cameron Yeah, sorry I should've been more clear!
I meant if you'd make a more in depth comparison between the S5 II and the FX30! I'm a Panasonic shooter with 2 x S5's and a GH5 but I'm almost tipping to going Sony because of the FX-line. I really like those cinema-style bodies and that you have the option to go for a FX6 when needed. Panasonic doesn't have a FX6 equivalent camera as of today..
But I know you're a Lumix shooter so I won't hold my breath for such a comparison! Thanks for making great content!
Thanks for doing this Josh. Really impressive from Panasonic, feels more organic than the Sony to me which is a big win. Also, as usual I just prefer the image quite clearly over the Sony. The rolling shutter on the S5ii for the shot moving from one lens to another around 4:20 is disappointing though. Out of all the massive improvements from the original S5 to the mkII two things bother me: rolling shutter is one, and the other is a complete lack of cinema camera plans from Panasonic. They have nailed one of the most beautiful images in a really affordable camera, so it feels so disappointing that there is no ‘A-Cam’ as such if you want to work with more buttons, XLR’s, bigger batteries and internal ND. Who knows…maybe they’ll do it one day.
Apologies for talking about off-topic stuff! Ha. Video was meant to be about autofocus. 😅
Yeah I agree regarding the AF, it does act a little more “human” compared to the overly clinical look.
Rolling shutter is of course a burden for a lot of cameras at this price point. I do agree that seeing a faster readout speed would be awesome, and again maybe that’s something they’re saving for the flagship lineup. After all, it’s a 24mp 6K full frame sensor , so I can imagine the processing power needed for dramatic rolling shutter performance improvement would be quite beefy.
They’re onto something here though, for £2K you’d be hard done by to find anything remotely close to this!
Thanks for watching dude, I appreciate it 🙏🏼
@@JoshCameron Yes agreed I don't think there is anything better at this price point. I'd definitely go for the X version, a small price to pay for the extra features. Will see if a need comes up but for anyone in the market now it will be an amazing camera.
Hello, actually the latest itteration of sony Af is in the A7RV not the a7IV ;)
But anaway the panasonic looks very good in that regard!
Hahaha they update their cameras too often , I can't keep up! :P
Impressive I felt like the s5ii got focus faster on the high sensitivity settings in comparison to Sony
And a lot more smoothly and organically
@@ign_rain3442 Yeah - I don't understand how for the last 2 years, with how overhyped Sony's AF system has been, nobody ever mentioned what I've noticed from the start: how while mostly accurate, Sony's autofocus is so jittery and sudden. Panasonic's DFD AF system has always been less accurate, but always with more smooth and organic feeling pulls.
Now that Panasonic has adopted Phase detection, the smoothness of their focus pulls combined with now better accuracy than even Sony, I believe they have market-leading autofocus.
I’m a long term Sony user and am very impressed with the way the Linux handled everything! I started out on Lumix (G9 & S1) and have been waiting for them to release something with solid autofocus so I can go back and enjoy the wonderful user experience and ergonomics. One thing I haven’t seen yet from demos is whether you can punch in to check focus while recording. Is it possible yet?
It’s possible while recording up to 60p
@Mitch Mc sweet! Thanks 😊
What L mount lens do you recommend? I'm interested in the ecosystem because of the gh5 ii. I'm on e mount right now using an a7c. I was looking at the lumix 1.8 primes, but they seem soft.
Very interesting video Josh. Thanks for making it. I thought the focus pull on LUMIX AF was really nice a smooth. I liked it.
0:19 - My exact reaction when I see the Sony menu. 😂
Very good video!
One of the few videos I don't want at 1.5x speed bit at the regular 1.0x
I knew the S5 II had good AF but this is insanely good for version 1 !!!
I have the regular S5 which I am learning to operate but for Black Friday 2023 I have set my sights on S5 II X!
Or if Panasonic release an S1 with flip out screen and 4K60p with no crop for less than 3000 $€£
Thanks for watching it at regular speed haha! Appreciate that 👏🏻 it’s crazy how good it is and this is just the beginning 👊🏼
@@JoshCameron I was thinking whether to buy a second body of the S5 Mark I at a heavy discount. (I got a very good deal on my S5 in 2022. 2000 Euro for the body, 20-60 kit lens and the Panasonic 35mm f/1.8 Basically both lenses were free)
However the S5 Mark II is so good I will wait!
I will learn on the “old” tech and will be pleasantly surprised when I get the new and improved one.
I feel that learning on the old AF system will make me a better video shooter and will help me take advantage of the S5 II X
I am subscribed to your channel so looking forward to new content!
Hi Josh! Thank you for the comparison 😊 I’m excited to get a new shiny S5 ii coupled with my LUMIX S Pro 16-35mm will do wonders 😊
I've used this combo a few times and it's incredible, you're going to love it!
Amazing video Josh really informative!! The main thing that stands out for me is the bad focus breathing on the Sony?! Bloody hell haha
Thank you Em! I think the lens didn't help - I know that the 24mm G Master suffers from bad focus breathing which is unacceptable given its huge price tag!
I still love my A7iv, the autofocus is so good! The colors too!…. I’m happy Panasonic finally fix their Af, big ups to them
Great video as always man!! Sony better watch out lol Panasonic is literally on their heals now 🎉🎉🎉
So pumped for this camera. Just waiting for someone to buy all my m4/3 gear so I can order one 😅 already have and LOVE the S5 but this auto focus will be so helpful for weddings
Great upgrade path from M4/3. I love micro four thirds, but I feel like its reached the peak of what the system can offer now unfortunately
@@JoshCameron yeah I agree. Just hoping there are still enough users to get some money out of my gear lol it was a wonderful budget entry into filmmaking though
I have s5iix and PDAF to me still has some issues, but I feel that it is not because the hardware not great, just Panasonic haven"t figured out the software/algorithm yet. It feels more like buggy, not "bad performance".
Hi Josh! I’ve been watching your videos last few days about S5ii and L mount and they’re so helpful, I’ve learned a lot, thanks!
I’m recently considering switching system to Panasonic or Sony, and the thing I wanna know the most about the autofocus, is that ‘how well could they perform on focusing on MOVING HANDS only.’
I shoot piano performance videos with no face but only hands movement, and I’ve been using MF on my GH5 or XT4 for lifetime and really wanna know if S5ii or A74 could do AF on this?
Great test! Also, noticing that Panasonic colors are best :)
Hey dude! Thank you - I found the Sony quite difficult to match to the Lumix - Slog 3 is definitely not as forgiving as VLog
Fantastic video bro!
Thanks dude 👊🏼
Really very well done my friend!!
nice video, but why isn't anyone making a dedicated video to how panasonic behaves in its other AF modes; it would be nice to see the focus tracking for instance and how it compares to sony's tracking, as this is a feature that is very useful for people who actually work with their cameras, shoot events and stuff... not just filming themselves for youtube videos. If you make such a video, you'll be one of the first, as noone seems to be testing the cameras for real life applications. Thanks :)
I've made a video on how the AF modes behave on the S5ii - you can check that out here: th-cam.com/video/QrENiU07FrM/w-d-xo.html
Panasonic has a long way to go. Switched from A7 IV to S5 II. Happy overall - but to be honest, auto focus is still far behind Sony.
Hey Josh another great video I shoot on S5 shoot weddings and not always 100% reliable have you used the S5mk2 at night in low light performance? I had a terrible experience shooting S5 4k 25p in lowlight AF couldnt hold at 1.8
quite pleasantly surprised by the improvements in the S5ii. One correction though, the a7iv uses modern AF system, however the latest and greatest is the new AI assisted AF in the A7R5... =P Already bought into the Sony system with the a7IV, FX30 and ZV1 and a bunch of glass, but looking at picking up S5ii or s5iix as a C cam or A cam when we need to do open gate recording for multi platform content. Great videos. Now decisions, what Panasonic glass... too bad cannot adapt Sony glass?
Thank you. Auto focus is good. But all tests are 24 or 28 mm. You can see Sigma 28-70 by 70mm. Sincerely.
The last test was shot at 50mm
Another excellent video! I will be buying the new Panasonic for sure.
Well to be completely fair, the Sigma used on the Panasonic has a much better focusing motor than the Tamron 28-75 mk1. The MK2 would be a better match.
How to focus is a great feature but still like really obsessing over it is It ultimately comes down to the image you know if both cameras have great autofocus that's great and all but the image rain supreme the more you closer you can get to something like an Arri or a red that's the camera that's going to win
So relieved to see the Sigma glass working so good with the S52. How does the amazing Sigma 85mm 1.4 do with it?
I know - It's so nice being able to use Sigma glass confidently now! I'll have to grab a copy from Sigma again soon so I can do those tests for you :)
@Josh Cameron Oh don't worry about it. I thought you owned that lens. No worries, thanks for the great content!
0:18 Had me creasing! 🤣 Excellent video as usual Josh
Thanks mate!
That “natural” reaction to holding a Sony camera body. 😂 It reminds me of TH-cam videos where a cat smells something like broccoli and gags. 😄
Here's another great material. Thanks Josh!
Thanks for watching!
Thank you for your video! What picture profile do you use for the test? Color seems very similar ! And also the skin tones...log profile and lots or something else?
Thank you!!
I used SLOG3 for the Sony and VLOG for the Lumix. I converted the footage to Rec709 using the same conversion LUT (I know, I'm a bad boy), and then just corrected as close to each other as I could :)
Great video mate! Looks like Panasonic wins in my opinion…Would you say it’s reliable?
Very reliable - I’ve had literally zero issues so far :)
Superb Josh, thanks for doing this; super useful as was chopping in an S1 for just 1 Sony A7iv for stills, gave S1 bodies and an S5 body a fair trial and shot all of 2022 on them mainly stills, I managed it fine for weddings but missed some key moments, or less than ideal frames of key moments that I know a Sony would have nailed. - so, how is the stills AF vs A7iv?
Video, no comparison for me, still super happy using S1 or S5mk1 for video and manual focus.
I will to do some photography AF tests for you so you can see how the AFC works for stills :)
Thanks for watching!
I like the music at 3:12
I like the tests you threw at them both.
Thanks dude :)
Hi! Great video as always! Have you had the opportunity to test an EF lens with the MC-21 adapter? I come from this setup with a S5 and having AF on an EF lens would be amazing
That’s my next test! I’m so intrigued to see how EF glass behaves
@@JoshCameron 18-35 please 😃
@@JoshCameron thanks Josh! I think that there is a bunch of us in the same situation!
Great comparisons brother!
Thanks mate 🙌🏻
These kind of tests only show you AF speeds. The problem with Panasonics dfd system wasn't just speed, it was the AF pulsing that occurred after it had achieved focus.
When doing an interview with someone who was seated, the AF would "pulse" back and forth very slightly every so often. (Fixed by switching to MF of course) this is what made the AF unreliable. Have you checked to see if this issue has been fixed?
No pulsing to be seen - I've done every test under the sun, and I'm yet to review footage that had pulsing in it :)
Hi Josh, good video. What I would like to see is a panning shot comparison. I recently saw dpreview do this with the Fujifilm xh2 or Xh2s and that was not smooth at all.
I really love your videos. Thank you as always.
Thank you Jason 🙏🏼
Thanks!
Yesss the 28-70 thanks for the test, very very helpful 😄
I'm glad! Thanks for watching dude :)
great video ! For beginner and hybrid camera for vlog and short film. A7iv and s5 ii which one is better ?
omg I prefer the focus shift in lumix, and it works too fast. but perhaps still need to test under more difficult conditions. I really can't wait for s5iix XD
At times it looks like the Pana acted more decisive and quicker in acquiring focus compared to the A7iv/Tamron combo.
blown away! is 3.6mpx on viewfinder deal breaker? thank u Josh!
@Josh cameron, Hi Josh, any change in new firmware Ver.2.2? please make a vid about the changes on S52/S52X
I am SO excited to have fantastic AF on the S5. Do you also have an S5iix that you’re testing?
I don’t have the S5iix currently but the minute I can get my dirty mits on it I’ll be posting about it for sure!
I use the Sony A9 since 2017 and the video Af beats both of the 2022 releases. Welcome to the W40k universe
I got it a7m4 1580 doallrs secondhand im korean
Any chance of testing the S5ii with the sigma ef adapter for L Mount? Playing with some older EF USM lenses and its focus speed?
I'm stuck between Sii X & FX3. I wanna know which one is gonna be the best for Photography & Cinema video recording?
With out having watched this video though I already have my opinion based on all the videos I have seen of the S5ii.... Sony still leads, but wont for long. This is Panasonic's first release version and its almost a dead ringer for Sony's AF. Panasonic leads the way in improving there cameras over time with firmware. Panasonic has finally packed a BIG punch. This is a camera that sits at the of comparison list now. The only thing holding this camera back truely is 60fps in 4k Full Frame. If the S1ii comes out and make as many improvements as this on has it, WILL BE THE CAMERA TO BEAT. This camera is perfectly suited for the pro getting started to middle size, the beginner, novice and any one who just wants a good camera. They knocked it out of the park. Truly gave everything you need, be that with a pulled punches to keep the price down. If it had 4k 60p FF it would not be sitting at 2000$. that's why its not there.
I agree with every single word of this. For those who have complained so far about the lack of FF 4K 60p, I think they need to realise that for $2000, this camera still packs so much more than everything else at this price point. The A7siii can do 4K 60, but that's a camera that costs almost double and only had a 12mp sensor. This camera is 24mp, so getting 60fps readout on the entire width of the sensor would mean some serious processing.
Thanks for watching dude!
@@JoshCameron Love your stuff. I believe you where the first person I subscribed to because the content is what it should be. Thanks for not filling time with just fluff.
Great test mate. The Sony was a bit faster. Like many TH-camrs say there is not a bad camera these days, it comes down to a matter preference. The Sony was a little bit faster only in a side by side comparison test like yours. In the real world negligible and unnoticeable. Great job, 👍👌👍
Thanks dude! Both cameras are great for AF, it’s just nice to see the Lumix keeping up!
Didn't see that at all
I watched it again as I thought I missed that part but can't find where it's faster
Great video. Lumix did awesome job
A74 with Samyang VAF lenses or S5 ii with S primes. Which one is better? 🙂
Nice but remain that these camera are hybrid for photo and video shooting. I guess Sony is still ahead photo AF capability.
Well, let’s see… I’ll be doing a test on that too :)
What about sports or wildlife photography? Is the AF stable in such conditions?
Lumix destroying the competition in all aspects now 😮💨
They ain’t playin no more
Lumix 🔥
Thank you for your fantastics videos ! I heard that the lumix 50 1.4 have difficulties to focus with the new S5 II. Do you have the opportunity to compare it to the 50 1.8 ? That would be great ! Thank you.
Let me see what I can do :) Thanks Ted!
@@JoshCameron Thank you very much ! According to The Slanted Lens, the AF-C of the 50 1.4 is not great (th-cam.com/video/z5XkGblUYGI/w-d-xo.html) but this video shows otherwise th-cam.com/video/wAQ0zzKPtXI/w-d-xo.html
Can you subject track with a touch of the screen like SOny? That's my biggest game changer. Thanks for the hard work
Yes you can if you use the tracking AF mode! Got a whole video coming out on the various AF modes on the S5ii and when to use them :) keep an eye out for it!
thinking of keeping my s1 for stills and getting the mark Ii 5 for video
Would be a great combo :)
Awesome Test
glad i waited and didn't grab those sales
Impressive AF tests. Look's like Sony's got to up its game. Lumix isn't playing the ostrich game of overheating with their new ff cameras. Hey, competition, wake up! 😎😎
s5ii x or the fx30? for vlogging? maybe experimenting with film emulation as well?
I prefer the S5II as it seems smoother in the transitions without looking jarring, unlike the A7IV which looks more robotic.
You can change the settings to make it smooth
@@jerimiahck7 I know. I’m an A7IV owner.
Yeah dude I agree actually. The A7IV is extremely accurate but not as buttery
0:19 HAHAHAHA the face HAHAHAHA
🤣🤪