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The Panasonic Lumix GH5S is a video-focused camera for native 4K capture

By Alvin Soon - on 10 Jan 2018, 11:11am

The Panasonic Lumix GH5S is a video-focused camera for native 4K capture

Panasonic has announced the Lumix GH5S, a video-focused Micro Four Thirds camera designed to capture DCI or UHD 4K video natively using an oversized sensor.

The GH5S is built around the same chassis as the Lumix GH5, but the former ships with a 10.2MP oversized sensor instead of the latter’s 20.2MP Four Thirds sensor. The GH5S’ sensor uses one pixel on the sensor to produce one pixel in the final footage. The lower pixel count with larger pixels should give it better performance in low light.

The 10.2MP sensor features a ‘dual gain’ design that uses two separate sensor read-out circuits. One prioritizes dynamic range, and one prioritizes nose reduction. On the GH5S, you have to choose one mode over the other.

The GH5S can also capture DCI 4K footage at higher frame rates up to 60p, with 50, 29.97 and 25p frame rates also available. The GH5 can capture DCI 4K at up to 24p. Both cameras can capture UHD 4K video at up to 60p. 10-bit 4:2:2 internal capture is available at up to 30p. While the GH5S targets professional videographers, the camera can also capture 14-bit raw stills.

Unlike the GH5, the GH5S doesn’t come with built-in image stabilization. This is because professional users usually use their own stabilization systems. Built-in IS has also been known to interfere with image stability when locked down on a tripod.

The pricing and availability for Singapore hasn’t been announced, but the Panasonic Lumix GH5S will be available in the US in February at US$2,499 (body only).

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