Panasonic LUMIX GH5S Mirrorless Camera
The Panasonic DC-GH5S is a 10MP Micro Four Thirds mirrorless camera — with 4K video. Used copies start from $600 on GearFocus, with buyer protection on every purchase.
Panasonic LUMIX GH5S Mirrorless Camera
Used Panasonic DC-GH5S Listings on GearFocus
Camera Overview — Panasonic DC-GH5S
Key Features — Panasonic DC-GH5S
10MP MFT Video-Optimized Sensor: The lower-resolution 10MP sensor uses larger photosites compared to the GH5, prioritizing low-light sensitivity and dynamic range over still image resolution.
Native ISO 160–51200: A wide native sensitivity range makes the GH5S well-suited to low-light video work without heavy reliance on extended ISO settings.
4K 10-Bit Video Recording: 10-bit color depth retains significantly more tonal information than 8-bit, giving colorists greater latitude in post-production grading.
High Frame Rate Options: Supports up to 240fps at VGA resolution and 60fps at 4K (via external output); frame rate options vary by resolution.
V-Log L & HLG Support: Built-in V-Log L and Hybrid Log Gamma color profiles allow for log footage capture and HDR-ready delivery without external recorders.
Dual Native ISO: The GH5S features dual native ISO, allowing it to switch between two base sensitivities to reduce noise in both standard and low-light shooting conditions.
Camera Specifications — Panasonic DC-GH5S
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Use Cases | Documentary |
| Type | Mirrorless |
| Sensor | Micro Four Thirds (MFT) |
| Resolution | 10MP |
| Processor | Venus Engine |
| ISO Range | 160 – 51200 |
| AF System | Contrast Detection, Face Detection AF, Depth from Defocus (Panasonic DFD) |
| AF Points | 225 points |
| Max Photo Resolution | 3680x2760 |
| Burst Rate | 12 fps |
| Max Video Resolution | 4K |
| Max Frame Rate | 240fps |
Description — Panasonic DC-GH5S
The Panasonic LUMIX GH5S is a Micro Four Thirds mirrorless camera engineered with video production as its primary focus. Its 10MP sensor with a 2.0x crop factor is processed by the Venus Engine, and the native ISO range spans 160 to 51200, providing latitude across a broad range of lighting scenarios. Video capabilities are a clear strength: the camera records at up to 4K resolution with 10-bit color depth, and supports frame rates from 23.976fps through to 240fps.
Video color profiles include V-Log L, Hybrid Log Gamma (HLG), Cinelike D, Cinelike V, and Like709, among others. For stills, burst shooting reaches 12fps at a maximum resolution of 3680 x 2760. The autofocus system uses Contrast Detection, Face Detection AF, and Panasonic DFD across 225 focus points, with subject tracking enabled.
The 3.2-inch fully articulated TFT LCD touchscreen resolves 1.62 million dots, while the OLED electronic viewfinder delivers 3.68 million dots at a 120Hz refresh rate. The magnesium alloy, weather-sealed body measures 139 x 98 x 87mm and weighs 660g. Connectivity includes Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB-C, Full HDMI, and dual 3.5mm audio jacks for headphones and microphone.
Pros — Panasonic DC-GH5S
- ✓Wide ISO range of 160 to 51200 supports demanding lighting conditions
- ✓10-bit video recording with 4K maximum resolution and frame rates up to 240fps
- ✓Extensive video color profile selection including V-Log L and Hybrid Log Gamma (HLG)
Cons — Panasonic DC-GH5S
- ✗No in-body optical image stabilization — only digital IS is available
- ✗10MP sensor resolution is relatively low for stills-focused shooters
- ✗No built-in flash; requires an external flash via hot shoe
Reviews — Panasonic DC-GH5S
Videos — Panasonic DC-GH5S
Panasonic GH5S Hands-On Field Test — TheCameraStoreTV
Frequently Asked Questions — Panasonic DC-GH5S
What video frame rates does the GH5S support?+
The GH5S supports a wide range of frame rates: 23.976, 24, 25, 29.97, 30, 50, 59.94, 60, 120, 180, and 240fps. This makes it highly versatile for everything from standard broadcast content to high-speed slow-motion capture.
Does the GH5S have in-body image stabilization?+
No. According to its specifications, the GH5S does not have in-body optical image stabilization. Only digital IS is available, so shooters requiring stabilization should plan to use stabilized lenses or external rigs.
What color profiles are available for video recording?+
The GH5S offers V-Log L, Hybrid Log Gamma (HLG), Cinelike D, Cinelike V, Like709, Standard, Monochrome, and Custom video color profiles. V-Log L and HLG are particularly useful for workflows requiring wide dynamic range or HDR delivery.
What autofocus system does the GH5S use?+
The GH5S uses a Contrast Detection system combined with Face Detection AF and Panasonic's Depth from Defocus (DFD) technology, covering 225 focus points. Subject tracking is supported, though eye-tracking AF is not available.
What connectivity options does the GH5S offer?+
The camera includes Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB-C, USB, Full HDMI output, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and a 3.5mm microphone jack. This makes it well equipped for both wireless control and professional on-set audio and monitoring setups.
What is the maximum burst shooting speed for stills?+
The GH5S supports burst mode shooting at up to 12 frames per second. The maximum still resolution is 3680 x 2760 pixels, corresponding to the camera's 10MP sensor.