Last year, Panasonic only launched two cameras dedicated to photography: The GH7 and the S9. Although we didn’t think the GH7 was for photography, we did, however, like the S9. What must be noted is that the latter was a small range finder, full-frame camera, which sort of fits into the demands of what photographers really want? And now, it appears Panasonic is already preparing to launch the successor of the S1R, which we once labeled as the DSLR shooter’s Mirrorless camera. So what must you expect from the Panasonic S1R successor?
What is the New Panasonic S1R Successor About?
L-Rumors released the report, stating that two reliable sources have confirmed that the successor to Lumix S1R is on the way. The camera will be launched in February, probably before the beginning of the CP+ trade show. While the sources have not yet confirmed the specifications, the report states that the camera would likely be a version of the Leica SL3. By that, they mean it will feature the same sensor as the SL3 and its core technology. The only difference is that the Panasonic S1R II will be better at making videos and more affordable. As for the lens, there is no announcement on it yet.
The Specs We Should Expect to See
For those of you still not understanding this, let’s recap what’s important from our Leica SL3 review:
- 60MP Full frame sensor
- Award-winning low light autofocus for people of color
- Content Authenticity Credentials done via a chip in-camera instead of firmware updates
- ISO 50 to 100,000
- 5.76MP viewfinder with up to 120 frames a second
- 3.2 inch touchscreen with 2.3 million dots
The report also adds that the company registered three cameras in Asia. This means that the S1H II will be on its way. At the same time, we reported that the S1 Mk II may also be on its way. However, there is no confirmation of which camera will be launched after the potential launch of the S1R.
A Long Time Coming
When we spoke about a potential launch of the S1 Mk II, we said the S1R also deserves some love. The camera, which was originally launched in 2019, was a camera dedicated purely to photographers. In a time when the world is running after hybrid devices, it becomes even more imperative that companies focus on still-based devices. It features a 47.3MP Full Frame 4K UHD sensor, which gives some great clarity to your images. However, despite the device being so great, the major drawback has been its humongous size, which doubles when you put on a long lens.
Furthermore, the design was not only a flaw but also a slow autofocus, which reminds us of Fujfiilm’s continuous struggle with it. So, now that the new S1R dubbing features the same core as the SL3, we aren’t sure how excited we should be.
Don’t get us wrong. The Leica SL3 is a great camera. It was an industry-first with a 60MP sensor that has an IP durability rating. In addition, it features autofocus and comes with a quick power mode. In fact, in our review, we said: “Overall, the Leica SL3 feels like a camera where photographers are put front and center. Sure, there are video features, but not a whole lot of emphasis was put on that. Instead, Leica focused on the things that matter more.”
So, while this is great, we want to know how much of the S1R will be an exact copy of the Leica SL3, but just cheaper. Our concern is that the SL3 was launched last year, and Panasonic is getting the same camera, but perhaps with a few tweaks here and there. So, where does that leave the space for innovation? Maybe many people will be happy, especially those who can’t afford an SL3. Maybe the camera genuinely turns out great, especially if they have listened to what customers have been waiting for with the S1 series.
However, we take the news with a pinch of salt with every rumor. It remains to be seen if the S1R improves its legacy or if it, too, becomes a device that is more into joining the hybrid camera fray.
