The value full-frame hybrid showdown. We compare 6K video, stabilization, autofocus, and the lens ecosystem that matters most — and they sit a clear step apart, aimed at very different shooters.
Updated: October 2026
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Choose if: You want the most video camera for your money. Best for filmmakers, V-Log shooters, and creators who need 6K Open Gate, V-Log and a built-in fan. Panasonic names one recording stop: 30 minutes in 6K/5.9K 30p/25p with Thermal Management on Standard.
Choose if: You prioritize autofocus, resolution, and the deepest lens lineup. Best for hybrid shooters, portraits, events, and anyone who values Sony's mature E-mount ecosystem.
| Specification | Panasonic S5 II | Sony A7 IV |
|---|---|---|
| Sensor | 24.2MP Full-Frame CMOS | 33MP Full-Frame Exmor R BSI CMOS |
| Processor | L2 Technology (New Engine) | BIONZ XR |
| Video (Max) | 6K 30p Open Gate (3:2), 4K30 full-frame, 4K60 APS-C crop | 4K60 (S35 crop), 4K30 full-frame (7K oversampled) |
| Internal Recording | 10-bit 4:2:2 (LongGOP / All-Intra) | 10-bit 4:2:2 XAVC S-I / XAVC HS |
| Log Profiles | V-Log (14+ stops), V-Gamut, HLG | S-Log3, S-Cinetone, HLG |
| Autofocus | 779-point Phase Hybrid, Human/Animal/Vehicle | 759-point hybrid, Real-time Eye AF (Human/Animal/Bird) |
| IBIS | 5-Axis (6.5 stops with Dual I.S. 2) | 5-Axis (5.5 stops) |
| Burst Speed | 30fps electronic, 9fps mechanical | 10fps (lossy compressed Raw) |
| ISO Range | 100–51,200 (exp. 50–204,800) | 100–51,200 (exp. 50–204,800) |
| Card Slots | 2x SD UHS-II | 1x CFexpress A/SD + 1x SD UHS-II |
| Viewfinder | 3.68M-dot OLED, 0.78x magnification | 3.69M-dot OLED, 0.78x magnification |
| Screen | 3.0" free-angle, 1.84M-dot | 3.0" vari-angle, 1.03M-dot |
| Weight | 740g (with battery and card) | 658g (with battery and card) |
Spec figures from the makers: Panasonic S5 II (help.na.panasonic.com, checked 26 Sept 2026) · Sony A7 IV (sony.co.uk, checked 25 Sept 2026)
Both cameras now offer reliable phase-detect autofocus, but the A7 IV still holds the edge for fast action:
Winner: Sony A7 IV. The S5 II closed the gap, but Sony's tracking is still the safer bet for sports and wildlife.
This is where the S5 II makes its case as a value powerhouse:
Winner: Panasonic S5 II for video-first creators. 6K Open Gate, V-Log and long takes (Panasonic names one stop: 30 minutes in 6K/5.9K 30p/25p on Standard) are hard to beat at this price.
Body against body the ratings are close; Panasonic's higher figure needs a Dual I.S. 2 lens:
Winner: Panasonic S5 II. Gimbal-free handheld video is more practical.
This is Sony's biggest advantage:
Winner: Sony A7 IV. The E-mount lineup is deeper and more affordable at every price point.
For video-first creators: The Panasonic S5 II is the better buy — 6K Open Gate, V-Log, and a built-in fan for less.
For hybrid and photo shooters: The Sony A7 IV wins with higher resolution, stickier autofocus, and the deepest lens ecosystem on the market.
Both are excellent full-frame hybrids. The "wrong" choice still produces pro-quality results.
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