Panasonic Lumix S9 launches as a handy Fujifilm alternative

The new Panasonic Lumix S9 weighs just 486 grams and, as the manufacturer’s new full-frame camera with an exciting filter function, aims to compete with the hyped but virtually unavailable Fujifilm X100 VI.

Panasonic Lumix S9 presented

With a handy design and exciting features, the Panasonic Lumix S9 aims to compete with the Fujifilm X100 VI or Sony A7C II. The body measures just 126 mm x 74 mm x 47 mm, while the new camera weighs just 486 grams including battery and accessories. In return, the new camera does without a viewfinder and grip on the front.

Despite its handy dimensions, Panasonic has opted for a full-frame sensor with a resolution of 24.2 megapixels and offers five-axis stabilization that can compensate for up to 5 f-stops. A fast PD autofocus with AF tracking is offered, while the electronic shutter can record up to 30 images per second with AF-C.

Thanks to Pixel Shift, however, the camera can also combine several photos into a 96 megapixel RAW file by slightly shifting the sensor between the individual shots using IBIS (In-Body Image Stabilization).

Four colors and a filter function

The S9 is available in four colors, making it clear that it is aimed at a much younger target group. In addition to classic black, the Panasonic Lumix S9 also comes with a blue, green or red leatherette cover.

The display on the back can be folded out completely, which should make filming easier in particular. The camera records videos in a maximum resolution of 6K at 30 fps, with a maximum of 120 fps possible in 1080p.

The S9 is also able to record in the new Mp4 Lite Open Gate format in 4:2:0 10-bit at 30p or 25p. The aspect ratios of the videos can be easily adjusted for social media in the LUMIX Lab app and cropped in portrait or square format, for example.

The popular filters from Fujifilm have been adopted, but Panasonic has added its own settings. Using the LUT button on the back, you can access the real-time LUT function and simply select a range of popular, classic or individual color styles. With the LUMIX Lab app, you can now also develop your own LUT color profiles using your smartphone.

Price and availability

The Panasonic Lumix S9 will be available from June 2024. The body alone starts at a price of €1,699.00, alternatively the S9 is also available as a kit with the S-R2060E lens (Panasonic Lumix S 20 – 60 mm f/3.5 – 5.6) at a price of €1,999.

Panasonic is also offering a new and ultra-compact Lumix S 26 mm f/8 pancake lens for a price of 239 euros. Further details can be found on the official Panasonic website.