Panasonic full-frame mirrorless camera featuring 24.2 MP BSI-CMOS sensor, 6K recording, Dual Native ISO 640/4000, 14+ stops dynamic range, and active cooling for unlimited recording.
Technical Details
The BSI CMOS sensor (24.2 MP, 35.6 × 23.8 mm) operates with Dual Native ISO values of 640 and 4000, achieving a dynamic range of over 14 stops. The camera records internally in 10-bit 4:2:0 H.265 or 8-bit 4:2:0 H.264, and externally via HDMI 2.0 in 10-bit 4:2:2. Available video formats include 6K (5952 × 3968), 5.9K (5888 × 3312), C4K (4096 × 2160), and UHD (3840 × 2160). The magnesium alloy body is dust and splash resistant, weighs 714g without a lens, and features active cooling for unlimited recording times.
History & Development
Launched in October 2019 as the first L-Mount camera in the S series, priced at 4,000 Euros. It received Netflix certification in December 2019 as the first mirrorless full-frame camera. Firmware updates introduced ProRes RAW output via Atomos recorders (2020) and improved autofocus performance.
Practical Use in Film
Used in Netflix productions such as "The Last Dance" (2020). 6K footage offers cropping flexibility in post-production, and V-Log provides 12 stops for color grading. Workflow: CFexpress for internal recording, external recorders for ProRes. Weaknesses: autofocus with fast-moving subjects, 90-minute battery life at 4K.
Comparison & Alternatives
Compared to the Canon R5: no overheating issues, but only 30fps in 4K instead of 120fps. Compared to the Sony α7S III: poorer low-light performance from ISO 12,800 upwards, but higher resolution. Successor S1H Mark II (2022) offers 6K/60fps. Budget alternative: S5 with similar image quality, fewer professional features.