We’re just now a week removed from Panasonic officially unveiling its new combo of flagship full frame mirrorless cameras - the powerful LUMIX S1R and the more video and filmmaking focused LUMIX S1 - and really only a few days removed from finding out the full specs for each.

As we’ve learned more about the LUMIX S1, we’ve heard excited whispers from those lucky enough to get advanced prototypes for review hinting that it may just be a practical option when compared against the several mirrorless offerings currently on the market.

Now, as the dust settles on the release news, we’re getting a first wave of hands-on reviews to give us a better insight into just how the LUMIX S1 (and for those interested in both video and photography, the LUMIX S1R as well) looks, works and feels.

Here are three in-depth early reviews of the LUMIX S1 for us to check out.

Panasonic S1 | In Depth Review

In this hands-on review by CVP, we get a very body and image focused review which walks us through how the camera works and shoots. From the touchscreen display menu to the various controls and ports, we get nice close up insights into the ergonomics and functionality of the S1.

Taken on a quick shoot in a dark, loud and crowded restaurant we get a nice look into the S1’s video recording capabilities and image quality (it’s especially nice to see comparisons with the Sony A7III at different ISOs in low light settings).

Overall, CVP’s review is left open ended on their recommendation until the LUMIX S1 has been on the market for a bit longer and the first wave of firmware updates have been included for proper judgement on their part.

Panasonic S1 Hands On

Meanwhile, ProAV TV got their hands on an early prototype to give another great hands-on review of the LUMIX S1 in a natural, bright interior environment. We get a good look at the S1 image in different shooting profiles in a nice array of closeups and medium shots in their kitchen setting.

Plus, if you’re interested in some feedback on both the IBIS and just how practical the 3-axis tilt screen seems to look, there are some great insights into both.

You can read their full write up here.

Are the Panasonic S1 and S1R good for video?

For those interested in comparing and contrasting the LUMIX S1 and the LUMIX S1R for their video capabilities, this review by Richard Wong gives some solid insights into how both look in a variety of settings and specifications.

The LUMIX S1 clearly looks to be the more powerful (and cheaper) of the two options, but it’s interesting to see what Panasonic has prioritized between the two to make each stand out.

Wong also gives some good comparative information between the LUMIX S1 in video recording and IBIS capabilities compared to the Nikon Z6 (which is similarly priced) as to which might be a better option for you.

Full LUMIX S1 Specs and Price

  • 24.2MP Full-Frame MOS Sensor
  • Venus Engine Image Processor
  • 5.76m-Dot 0.78x-Magnification OLED LVF
  • 3.2" 2.1m-Dot Triaxial Tilt Touchscreen
  • UHD 4K60 Video; HDR and 10-Bit Recording
  • ISO 100-51200, Up to 9 fps Shooting
  • Contrast-Detect 225-Area DFD AF System
  • Sensor-Shift Image Stabilization
  • Weather-Sealed Construction
  • 96MP High-Res Mode, Dual XQD/SD Slots

Price: $2,497.99

panasonicLumix S1reviews
Cinematography & Cameras