Video Summary
The LUMIX S5D keeps the original S5 body, IBIS, autofocus and recording codec but gains official DJI LiDAR compatibility for RS3 gimbals.
The original S5 still delivers a preferred, more organic image look versus the Mark II family despite Mark II feature upgrades.
Using DJI Focus Pro with the original S5 produced impressive results; the S5D removes the need for an external focus motor with electronic lenses.
Limitations remain: older IBIS vs Mark II, 4:2:0 recording codec (not 4:2:2), and LiDAR close‑focus alignment issues due to mounting position.
Pricing positions the S5D competitively (around £1,400 with 18–40 zoom); original S5 remains an attractive, lower‑cost option.
The S5D adds official compatibility with DJI's LiDAR module (used with the RS3 gimbal) and support for the DJI Focus Pro Grip, enabling integrated LiDAR-driven autofocus without an external focus motor for electronic lenses.
Yes — the presenter finds the original S5 still produces a smoother, more organic image than the Mark II, making it relevant for many production scenarios four years after release.
The older S5 platform has weaker IBIS performance, records in a 4:2:0 codec (not 4:2:2), lacks some advanced stabilization and quality‑of‑life features of Mark II cameras, and LiDAR can show close‑focus alignment discrepancies due to mounting.
The S5D is positioned competitively (around £1,400 including an 18–40mm zoom); it may appeal to users who want S5 image character with LiDAR/Focus Pro integration, while budget buyers can still consider the older S5 for lower cost.
"The LUMIX S5D is essentially the same as the S5 but with a major update: support for the DJI LiDAR module."
The LUMIX S5D has the same body, in-body image stabilization (IBIS), autofocus, and recording codec as the original LUMIX S5.
A significant addition is its compatibility with the DJI LiDAR module when paired with the RS3 gimbal, enhancing the camera's functionality.
The camera also supports the DJI Focus Pro Grip, although its specifications are not specifically mentioned in the announcement.
"The original S5 still maintains superior image quality over the Mark 2."
The speaker notes a preference for the original S5's image quality compared to the newer S5 Mark II, highlighting subtle differences in image processing.
While the Mark II has improvements, the original S5 produces footage that feels smoother, more organic, and less processed, evoking a feeling comparable to their Red Komodo camera.
The comparison emphasizes that, from a pure image quality perspective, the original S5 remains relevant even four years post-release.
"Using the DJI Focus Pro with the original S5 was a revelation."
In preparation for testing the LUMIX S5D, the speaker rigged up the DJI Focus Pro to the original LUMIX S5, utilizing a DZO Vespid 35mm lens.
The integration of the LiDAR system with the camera produced excellent results, although some limitations remain, such as close focus discrepancies due to the LiDAR's mounting position.
Overall, the combination of the LiDAR and the original S5 yielded impressive footage, affirming its capabilities even against newer models.
"The new S5D maintains the impressive image quality but lacks some quality of life features found in newer models."
While the S5D offers a refreshed experience, it doesn’t include some upgraded features present in the Mark II series, such as enhanced IBIS or advanced stabilization options.
The recording codec still falls short in terms of some professional settings, with only a 420 recording codec available, compared to the 422 codec found in the Mark II.
The speaker notes that while the original S5 has some limits, its image quality can still compete in production scenarios effectively.
"The new LUMIX S5D will launch at around £1,400, including a 18-40 zoom lens."
The LUMIX S5D is positioned competitively, priced similarly to the original S5 when it was first released, with expectations set at around £880 for the body without the lens.
There's discussion about the affordability of the original S5, which remains available at about £800, and represents a cost-effective option considering the image quality capabilities.
Although the S5D offers new features, for many users, the Mark II cameras might still be the preferred option due to additional functionalities and features.
