Lumix S5 IIvs A7 IV
VS
Which should you buy?
Hybrid Video & Photography — Lumix S5 II (2023): Phase-detect AF changed everything for Lumix — the S5 II delivers exceptional hybrid performance with 6K video and genuine full-frame value.
Portrait & Wedding Photography — A7 IV (2021): The full-frame portrait benchmark — 33MP, AI Eye AF, and exceptional skin-tone rendering in a pro-grade hybrid body.
Who should buy what
Lumix S5 II (2023)
- You want a capable full-frame hybrid with strong video credentials and reliable autofocus
- You're considering switching from Sony or Canon and want something genuinely different
- You shoot weddings, events, or documentary and need dependable full-frame performance
A7 IV (2021)
- You want a high-resolution full-frame all-rounder for portraits, weddings, or travel
- You're stepping up from APS-C or a DSLR and want the best all-round full-frame body under £3,000
- You shoot a mix of stills and video and need a single body that handles both seriously
- You want access to the widest lens ecosystem in the mirrorless market
Quick take: The a7 iv has the highest resolution at 33mp; the lumix s5 ii is the most affordable. Scroll down for the full spec breakdown.
Full specifications
| Specification | Lumix S5 II (2023) | A7 IV (2021) |
|---|---|---|
| Price | £1,999 | £2,299 |
| Sensor | 24.2MP full-frame BSI CMOS | 33MP Full-frame BSI Exmor R CMOS |
| Resolution | 24.2MP | 33.0MP |
| Video | 6K/30p, 4K/60p, C4K/60p, V-Log | 4K/60p oversampled, 10-bit internal, S-Log3, S-Cinetone |
| Autofocus | Phase-detect AF with subject/face/eye detection | 759-point phase-detect, AI subject recognition |
| Stabilisation | 5-axis IBIS (up to 6.5-stop with OIS lenses) | 5-axis IBIS, 5.5 stops |
| Burst Rate | 30fps electronic / 7fps mechanical | 10fps mechanical, 30fps electronic |
| Battery Life | 740 shots (CIPA) | ~580 shots (CIPA) |
| Weight | 740g body only | 659g body only |
| Dimensions | 134.3 × 102.3 × 90.1mm | 131.3 × 96.4 × 79.8mm |
| Weather Sealed | Yes | Yes |
| Viewfinder | 0.76" OLED EVF, 3.68M dots | EVF, 3.69M dots, 0.78× magnification |
| Screen | 3.0" fully articulating touchscreen | 3.0" vari-angle touchscreen |
| Mount | Leica L-mount | Sony FE (full-frame E-mount) |
| Memory Cards | Dual SD UHS-II | Dual slots: CFexpress Type A + SD UHS-II |
| Connectivity | USB-C 3.1, HDMI full-size, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth | USB-C (3.2 Gen 2), Bluetooth, Wi-Fi |
More comparisons with Lumix S5 II