Lumix S5IIX vs S1IIE - Worth The Upgrade?
6 March 2025
Is the Lumix S1IIE Worth the Upgrade from the S5IIX?
When I first heard about the Lumix S1IIE at a pre-disclosure event, I was honestly a bit confused. At first glance, it seemed nearly identical to the S5IIX—especially in terms of specs. Aside from the body design (which we’ll get into), it felt like déjà vu. But after some hands-on time with the S1IIE, it’s finally clicking for me—and that’s what I want to share with you today.
Price Breakdown: Is It £800 Better?
Let’s start with the numbers:
S1IIE: £2399
S5IIX: £1599
That’s a difference of £800 — body only.
So, is the S1IIE really worth that extra spend? Well, the answer depends on what you're looking for.
What You’re Getting for the Extra £800:
Internal ProRes RAW recording
4K 60p and 6K 60p in 2.4:1 cinemascope
Bluetooth timecode sync
32-bit float audio support (via the DMW-XLR2 module)
Other minor feature upgrades
The S5IIX Is Still a Beast
Let me be clear: the S5IIX is still an amazing camera, even two years after its release. I use mine all the time and it does everything I need.
If you already own the S5II or S5IIX, the big question becomes: is upgrading to the S1IIE worth it for you?
My Short Answer: Yes and No
For some people, it absolutely will be. But for others—especially if you're not maxing out what the S5IIX already offers—it may not be necessary.
No Recording Limits = Game Changer
One big benefit I didn’t immediately realize was no recording time limits on the S1IIE.
With the S5IIX, you’re capped at 30 minutes when recording in 6K Open Gate or 5.9K. That’s historically pushed us toward 4K when recording long takes.
But with the S1IIE? Record as long as you like—even in 6K.
If you need long-form, high-resolution recording, this could make the S1IIE a perfect second cam alongside your S5IIX.
Internal RAW Recording = More Creative Flexibility
Both cameras output RAW via HDMI when paired with a compatible recorder.
But the S1IIE goes a step further: it records RAW internally.
That’s not possible on the S5IIX due to SD card limitations.
The S1IIE uses CFexpress, which supports data rates up to 3.5 Gb/s when recording 5.8K ProRes RAW HQ.
Just keep in mind—you’ll need serious hard drive space.
Where the S1IIE Truly Shines: Hardware & Handling
The real upgrade from the S5IIX? Handling and build quality.
Notable Hardware Improvements:
5.76M-dot EVF (vs. 3.68M-dot on S5IIX) — much sharper and more immersive
Circular eyecup design — more comfortable than the square version
Fully-articulating flippy screen — better than previous Lumix designs
Photo/Video switch — seamless switching with independent settings
Front & rear tally lights — perfect for solo creators
Shutter closes on power-off — protects your sensor during lens changes
Faster operation — slightly quicker boot and playback
Thermal Performance & Recording Media Tips
The S1IIE handles heat well, just like the S5IIX. No overheating during long takes.
⚠ Avoid using CFexpress for long recordings.
They run hotter and can raise internal temps faster.
👉 Use SD cards or an external SSD if you're planning to shoot for 40+ minutes.
Should You Upgrade?
My Personal Verdict:
Would I upgrade from the S5IIX to the S1IIE?
Probably not—because the new features aren’t mission-critical for me.
But I also have a fleet of Lumix cameras, from the OG S1H to the S1II, so I’ve got different tools for different jobs.
If you:
Don’t own any Lumix camera yet, or
Need a second camera with longer recording and better ergonomics…
👉 Then yes, the S1IIE could be a solid investment.
Final Thoughts: Choose What You Need
Before jumping in, write down your non-negotiable features.
Do you really need internal ProRes RAW? Do you record over 30 minutes in 6K?
If not, that £800 could go toward an extra lens—or a CleanMyMac license (shout out again to the sponsor).
Panasonic is also running great kit deals on both the S5IIX and S1IIE right now, so check those out—you might snag a lens or two for much less.
Helpful Links
✅ Lumix S1IIE vs S5IIX Comparison Table
💡 Panasonic Kit Deals
