The Panasonic S5 IIX at first glance may seem indistinguishable from its predecessor, the S5 II. It offers the same sensor, same AF system, and stabilizaton. However, there are some differences that make the S5 IIX an important upgrade for filmmakers and hybrid shooters:

• Higher maximum bitrate: the S5 II tops out at 200Mbps in LongGOP compression, while the S5 IIX offers up to 800Mbps for C4K and 4K in either LongGOP or All-I.
• Improved color sampling for slow motion: both cameras shoot up to 180FPS but the S5 IIX does so in 4:2:2.
• 12-bit raw recording: while this feature is slated as a paid firmware upgrade for the S5 II soon, the S5 IIX currently can record 5.8K Apple ProRes to an SSD drive over USB-C or Apple ProRest Raw over HDMI to a compatible Atomos recorder. It is also compatible with Blackmagic Raw.
• Addition of streaming: wireless IP streaming, USB tethering, and wired IP streaming are all options with the S5 IIX.
• New paint job: unique and stealthy-looking matte black finish.

Here are the other features in addition to the upgrades above:

• Same great sensor design as the S5 II with a processing engine equipped with L2 technology.
• Active image stabilization system with support for "walking shots" while recording.
• Sensor-shift stabilization technology and a High Resolution mode to capture and compile 8 separate exposures for a 96MP raw photo.
• Dual Native ISO thechnology borrowed from Panasonic's broadcast line.
• Compatibility with anamorphic lenses.
• Dual USH-II SD card slots.
• Built-in cooling fan to support unlimited recording.

While both cameras are optimized for video, the S5 IIX takes it a step further and is the ideal choice for anyone needing higher bitrates and raw recording and streaming options.