For camera enthusiasts, the question of whether to choose Canon or Panasonic has been a long-standing debate. In 2023, both manufacturers released new products, with Canon launching the Full-frame R8 and Panasonic introducing the Lumix S5 2. Given their similar price points, it can be difficult to decide between the two. So, which one is better?

In short – “If you prioritize advanced video features and a fast autofocus system, the Canon EOS R8 is a great choice. However, if you prefer phase-detection autofocus and improved image stabilization, the Panasonic Lumix S5 II is the better option.”

Canon EOS R8 vs Panasonic Lumix S5 II

In this article, we’ll help you in selecting the suitable camera by comparing the Canon EOS R8 and the Panasonic Lumix S5 2. 

Design

The EOS R8 closely resembles the EOS RP in terms of its physical structure, which makes it easier to operate. It features two well-placed control dials for comfortable shooting but has fewer direct control options compared to the EOS R6 2, and lacks a joystick. Canon claims that the camera is designed to be resistant to dust and water, but it is less sturdy than the EOS 6D 2 and is constructed from plastic. The Vari-Angle 3-inch LCD touchscreen provides flexibility in adjusting your shot from any angle. However, the camera only has one SD card slot located within the battery compartment and no option for an accessory battery grip. Nonetheless, it is compatible with the grip extender of the EOS RP.

In contrast, The Panasonic Lumix S5 Mark 2 boasts a compact and sturdy body that is crafted with a full-metal frame and is weather-resistant to safeguard against dust and moisture. It is designed to provide a comfortable and secure grip, with conveniently located buttons and dials for easy access and quick adjustments to settings. The camera features a 3-inch vari-angle touchscreen LCD that can be tilted and flipped to capture shots from high and low angles, as well as a high-resolution electronic viewfinder that offers minimal lag, even in bright outdoor settings. Besides, the camera is equipped with a dual card slot that supports UHS-2 SD, providing increased storage capacity and flexibility during shooting.

Performance

In terms of performance, the EOS R8 is a mirrorless camera that comes with a full-frame 24.2-megapixel CMOS sensor and a DIGIC X processor, providing great flexibility and power for both still photography and videography. You can record 4K 60p 10-bit video and full-width 4K 60p video oversampled from 6K, making it ideal for creating high-quality video content. Additionally, it can handle 4:2:2 10-bit recording at 30 fps for longer projects. The EOS R8 is built to be quick and responsive, boasting a continuous shooting speed of up to 40 fps, and it features the Dual Pixel CMOS AF 2 system that offers 1053 autofocus points, allowing for speedy and precise autofocus across the whole sensor. To ensure smooth and steady footage, the camera comes with Digital Image Stabilization for movie mode that helps to reduce camera shake.

On the other hand, The Lumix S5 Mark 2 is equipped with a full-frame 24.2-megapixel sensor that is designed to produce high-quality images and videos. It is paired with the Venus Engine, which ensures that the images captured are of excellent quality and accurate color reproduction. The sensor is powered by L², a newly developed image-processing engine that was co-created by Lumix and Leica. As a result, the S5 Mark 2 can capture 6K video at 30 fps in 4:2:0 10-bit, and you can record 4K video at 60 fps with a super 35 crop. The sensor can also shoot 96-megapixel multi-shot high-resolution photos, and it supports up to 30 fps e-shutter shooting with C-Autofocus and Raw capture. The camera is equipped with Dual Native ISO technology, which helps to minimize the noise in low-light conditions. Its autofocus system is both fast and precise, performing well in both stills and video modes.

Feature

The Canon EOS R8 offers features such as HDR PQ and Canon Log 3 that can help you produce professional-quality results. Its 8-bit video modes are compatible with affordable U3-class SD cards, while 10-bit C-Log3 or HDR PQ capture requires a pricier V60-rated card. The camera has a vertical movie mode that’s ideal for creating content for social media, as well as full HD live streaming support for easy sharing. It has multiple inputs, including USB-C, micro-HDMI, microphone input, and headphone jack, for added versatility when connecting to accessories. Built-in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi allow for easy transfer of photos and videos, while the multi-function hot shoe enables the use of additional accessories. 

Now, if we take a look at the Lumix S5 Mark 2, it boasts a significant new feature in the form of on-sensor phase detection autofocus, a first for Panasonic. This type of autofocus is faster and more precise than traditional contrast Autofocus, and it combines depth awareness with subject recognition tracking for even better results. The camera’s in-body image stabilization has also been improved. Moreover, the camera now allows for shooting full sensor height 3:2 Open Gate video, which allows for cropping into various aspect ratios or panning around the frame in post-production at up to 30 fps. The footage can be stretched horizontally for a real-time DE-squeeze preview. The camera also supports 14+ stop V-Log/V-Gamut capture and industry-standard LUT functions, which enable color grading while previewing the shot.

Wrapping Up

The EOS R8 delivers enhanced image quality, advanced video features, and an upgraded autofocus system similar to the R6 Mark 2. The only notable difference is that the R8 does not have built-in image stabilization. Overall, this camera is a highly attractive option at its price point. But, for individuals who prioritize phase-detection autofocus and video capabilities, the Panasonic Lumix S5 Mark 2 may be a more fitting choice. In our opinion, if you can afford the extra few bucks, go for the Lumix S5 2.