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Panasonic Lumix S1R II First Look Review

Our Panasonic Lumix S1R II First Look Review explores the next-generation full-frame mirrorless camera that pushes resolution, speed, and hybrid capabilities further than any previous Lumix camera.

Hands on video review

With a new fast 44.3MP BSI CMOS sensor, upgraded Phase Hybrid AF with AI tracking, and 8K 30p internal recording, which is a first for Panasonic Lumix, it’s for enthusiast, and professional photographers, solo creators and working filmmakers who need cutting-edge performance from a hybrid system.

Panasonic has upgraded and refined virtually every aspect compared to the original, including image quality, autofocus, handling and video features, making this the most capable full-frame S-series camera to date.

With its incredibly high-speed burst shooting, equally impressive 177MP handheld high-res mode, and improved ergonomics, the S1R II is a serious contender not only for existing Lumix creators, but also newcomers to the L mount.

So why not join us as we explore key features, pricing and a specs comparison with the original S1R to find out exactly what’s new. We also have real world sample images from Gareth Evans, which he captured while making the video review.

S1R II Price and Release Date

The Panasonic Lumix S1R II launched on 25th February 2025. UK pricing is as follows:

1. Lumix S1R II Body Only £2,999.00
2. Lumix S1R II with S 24-105mm f/4 Macro Lens Kit £3,799.00
3. Lumix S1R II with S PRO 24-70mm f/2.8 Lens Kit  £4,499.00
4. A new battery grip DMW-BG2E was also released for £299.00

The S1R II as the highest-resolution full-frame camera in the Lumix lineup, sitting above the S5 II (£1,599.00) and S5 II X (£1,999.00) in both price and performance as we find out next.

Sample 01. Lumix S1R II with Lumix 50mm F/1.4 S Pro L-Mount Lens. Camera settings: 1/200 sec. f/1.4. ISO 640 (right click to open larger)

Key features and Upgrades

Panasonic has made substantial changes to the S1R II in order to deliver faster speeds, while maintaining high resolution and ease-of-use. Some of the most significant upgrades include:

• 44.3MP BSI CMOS sensor with fast readout and improved dynamic range (14 stops max)
• Phase Hybrid AF with AI, which offers faster, more reliable autofocus tracking
• Up to 40fps blackout-free burst shooting in electronic shutter mode
• 8K 30p internal recording – a first Lumix camera with 4:2:0 10-bit 8K capture
• 6.4K Open Gate recording for cropping into multiple aspect ratios
• USB SSD recording for extended video shoots and low cost storage
• Dual IS 2 stabilisation with up to 8.0 stops of in-body stabilisation in the centre frame
• Refined handling with a new tilt + free-angle LCD and a 5,760k-dot OLED EVF

This highlights what a serious competitor this model is in the high-resolution space, and it is directed squarely at photo and video hybrid shooters who need professional-level capabilities. But does it achieve both?

High-Resolution Photography and high image quality

At the heart of the S1R II is the 44.3MP full-frame sensor, which captures high levels of detail and a maximum 14+ stops of dynamic range when using V-Log/V-Gamut. It also features:

• High-Res Mode up to 177MP (handheld and tripod), which is useful not only for commercial but for landscape, still life, interiors and architecture
• Improved low-light performance, due to the backside-illuminated (BSI) sensor
• ISO range of 80-51,200 (expandable to ISO 40-102,400) achieving resolution and sensitivity
• Real-Time LUTs for in-camera creative profiles and fast colour grading

Photographers who produce high-end prints or capture portraits, weddings, or commercial work will benefit from the wide range of photographic features this camera offers. Next let’s explore video in more detail.

Advanced Video with 8K, High-Speed 4K, and RAW

With models like the GH7 and S5 II X in their lineup, Panasonic is a market leader in video, with some notable high profile users in the industry. The Lumix S1R II takes video even further by introducing 8K 30p internal recording for the first time in the Lumix range.

High-resolution video allows for greater flexibility in post-production, whether you need to crop, reframe, or deliver multiple aspect ratios from the S1R II’s 6.4K Open Gate recording. Open Gate takes full advantage of the full-frame sensor, and ideal for content creators who need vertical, square, or anamorphic aspect ratio, which can all be extracted from the same footage.

For videographers who shoot high-speed content for slow motion playback, the S1R II is capable of 4K 120p recording in 4:2:2 10-bit, enabling smoother, richer slow-motion while capturing a detailed 4K image.

Likewise filmmakers who work with RAW post-production workflows will appreciate the ability to record internally in 5.8K Apple ProRes RAW HQ / ProRes RAW and Blackmagic RAW (via an upcoming firmware update) through HDMI to compatible external video recorders from Atomos and Blackmagic.

The camera is able to record high resolution and high speed video thanks to a newly developed active cooling system, which offers unlimited recording, preventing overheating even during extended 8K or high-bitrate 4K sessions.

When combined with dual native ISO, which helps reduce noise at higher sensitivities, the S1R II is a very compelling choice for content creators and professional filmmakers as well as photographers.

Build and Handling

The S1R II has a solid, magnesium alloy body, which weighs 795g and is in keeping with the tough image that Panasonic is known for. However, this model adds some practical refinements like a new tilt and free-angle LCD screen for selfies and difficult angles, as it allows for conventional tilting and full articulation.

Another nice feature is the high-res. 5,760k-dot OLED Live View Finder, which offers a sharp preview with no lag or blackout when shooting in H+ (High Speed Plus) mode. The EVF 120fps refresh rate renders a natural viewing experience, particularly when tracking fast-moving subjects around the frame.

For storage the S1R II features dual memory card slots with one CFexpress Type B slot for high-speed / resolution recording and one SD card UHS-II slot for broad compatibility with low cost media. The addition of USB SSD recording is a major benefit too, giving videographers the option to record directly to an external SSD hard drive, bypassing traditional memory card limitations for a more efficient and cost-effective workflow, which is suitable for high-bitrate data.

With comprehensive weather sealing the S1R is resistant to dust, moisture, and freezing temperatures, making it well-suited for challenging environments, which is an area where some less professional mirrorless bodies fall short.

Vast array of L Mount Lenses

The S1R II is supported by an extensive lineup of L mount lenses, covering everything from wide-angle primes to telephoto zooms and various macro lenses. Panasonic’s S PRO series is range of optically refined, high-performance lenses, including the two in the kits:

• S1R II Camera with S 24-105mm f/4 Macro Lens Kit
• S1R II Camera with S PRO 24-70mm f/2.8 Lens Kit

As well as Panasonic’s own lineup, L mount users also have access to Leica and Sigma lenses, giving them a huge range of native glass to choose from. Whether you need cinema-ready primes, ultra-wide zooms, or fast telephotos, the S1R II system is comprehensive.

Sample 02. Lumix S1R II with Lumix 50mm F/1.4 S Pro L-Mount Lens. Camera settings: 1/80 sec. f/3.2. ISO 3200 (right click to open larger)

Panasonic Lumix S1R II vs Lumix S1R specs comparison table

This comparison highlights the key differences between the S1R II and its predecessor to help users decide whether an upgrade is worthwhile.

For anyone considering upgrading from the original S1R, the improvements in autofocus, burst shooting speed, and video capabilities make this a significant step up. Commercial photographers, cinematographers, and creators coming from other brands, or even an S5 II or S5 II X might also find a major jump in resolution and sensor technology.

Sample 03. Lumix S1R II with Lumix S 20-60mm f/3.5-5.6 L-Mount Lens. Camera settings: 1/800 sec. f/8. ISO 320 (right click to open larger)

No matter how you look at it the second-gen. S1R II is the most sophisticated camera in Panasonic’s full-frame lineup, combining high-resolution stills, professional video, and improved autofocusing in a tough hybrid body. The new 44.3MP sensor and fast processor not only deliver exceptional image quality, 8K video, LUTs, and ultra-fast burst shooting, but also competitive in-camera image stabilisation.

For professionals who work in either photography or filmmaking, the S1R II across the board and is the best Lumix camera for anything from studio, and commercial, to video shoots and events.

Reserve your Panasonic Lumix S1R II Camera Body today or explore our entire lineup of Lumix cameras to find the perfect hybrid kit for your next project.

Don’t forget that we’ll buy your old camera equipment in a hassle-free process, and you can use the money towards any upgrade. Get a fast, free quote here and decide if it’s the right move for you.

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By Nick Dautlich on 25/02/2025

Nick Dautlich

Senior Content Writer and Product Reviewer

Nick Dautlich is the Senior Content Writer and Product Reviewer at Park Cameras, with over 15 years of photography experience. A Sony Imaging Professional and expert reviewer, Nick has worked with major brands such as Canon, Sony and Nikon. His work is also featured on Vanguard World UK’s website, Capture Landscapes, and Shutter Evolve. Nick’s photography includes National Trust projects and magazine covers and he is passionate about landscapes and storytelling. Nick also enjoys hiking and teaching his children about nature. Learn more on his profile page.