Panasonic S1 II review: A near-perfect creator's camera if money is no object

The Panasonic S1 II is a creator-centric camera that offers 5.8K ProRes RAW internal video recording and 70 fps burst speeds with reduced rolling shutter distortion. The camera features a partially stacked 24-megapixel sensor and an AI-powered hybrid phase detect autofocus system. Despite its impressive features, the S1 II is priced at $3,200, making it more expensive than similar cameras like the Nikon Z6 III. The S1 II has a compact and lightweight body design with a comfortable grip and excellent control layout. The camera's electronic viewfinder is bright and sharp, and the rear display is versatile with tilt and swivel capabilities. The S1 II supports RAW video capture to an SSD via the USB-C port and has a full-sized HDMI port that supports Blackmagic and ProRes RAW capture. The camera's autofocus system is fast and accurate, but not quite up to Sony and Canon's standards. The S1 II excels in video stabilization, offering better results than its rivals, and has a built-in fan to prevent overheating. Overall, the S1 II is a powerful hybrid camera, but its high price may make it less appealing to some users. The Nikon Z6 III is a more affordable alternative that offers similar video capabilities, making it a better option for most users.