This popular mirrorless camera is now discontinued after 6 years of budget-friendly high-resolution performance

A Panasonic Lumix S5 camera with a flip-out screen is shown against a gradient background, covered by a bold red banner labeled "DISCONTINUED" — (Image credit: Future)

Not just DSLRs retire – mirrorless cameras do too – and the Panasonic Lumix S5 has now come to its 'natural' conclusion, as major Japanese retailers marked the full-frame camera as discontinued.

Launched in 2020, the S5 quickly earned a reputation as a hybrid camera powerhouse delivering up to 96MP stills in high-resolution mode and cinema-like-quality video at under $1,800 – making it a favorite for both photographers and videographers seeking a capable and versatile all-in-one camera.

While discontinuation is standard, it does mean that firmware updates, official support, and stock are no longer guaranteed – but the Lumix S5D – an enhanced version of the S5 – and its successor, the Lumix 5D II, are still available in Panasonic's lineup.

Article continues below

No more availability: Lumix S5

A black Lumix S5 camera body is displayed without a lens. It sits on a light surface against a soft orange and white backdrop — The Lumix S5 launched in 2020 and features a 24.2MP CMOS full-frame sensor (Image credit: Future)

Searches in both the UK and the US show no availability, confirming that it has left the market.

For UK shooters, the Panasonic Lumix S5D, introduced in 2024, is the closest alternative to the Lumix S5. Designed to meet EU requirements and regulations, it adds minor updates like DJI LiDAR autofocus compatibility.

Now, with its brother being discontinued, the S5D is one of the best value full-frame cameras you can buy right now.

The Panasonic Lumix S5 II, launched in 2023, is the best full-frame mirrorless alternative for US buyers. It shares the S5's hybrid strengths, adds phase-detect autofocus (PDAF) recording, and unlimited recording times – though these new features come with a higher price tag...

...but especially the addition of PDAF, brings the S5 II right in line with some of the best hybrid cameras money can buy!

Your best alternative in the UK: Lumix S5D 🇬🇧

Panasonic Lumix S5D mirrorless camera on a set of stone steps with sunlight hitting the camera from the side creating shadows — Read more about the Panasonic Lumix S5D (Image credit: Panasonic)

● with 18-40mm lens: £699 (was £1,399) at Wex
● with 18-40mm lens: £699 (was £1,199) at London Camera Exchange
● with 18-40mm lens: £699 (was £1,399) at Panasonic
● with 18-40mm + 50mm lens: £899 (was £1,599) at Panasonic

Your best alternative in the US: Lumix S5 II 🇺🇸

Discover more about the Panasonic Lumix S5 II in our review (Image credit: Panasonic)

● $1,997.99 at B&H Photo
● $1,997.99 at Adorama
● $1,199.99 at Panasonic

You might like...

Browse the best full-frame mirrorless cameras, the best hybrid cameras, and the best Panasonic Lumix cameras.

TOPICS

Kim is a photographer, editor and writer with work published internationally. She holds a Master's degree in Photography and Media and was formerly Technique Editor at Digital Photographer, focusing on the art and science of photography. Kim covers everything from breaking industry news and camera gear to the stories shaping photography today. Blending technical expertise with visual insight, she explores photography's time-honored yet ever-evolving role in culture.

You must confirm your public display name before commenting

Please logout and then login again, you will then be prompted to enter your display name.