Canon EOS R6 vs Panasonic Lumix S5 II: An Expert’s Hands-On Mirrorless Showdown

Choosing between the Canon EOS R6 and Panasonic Lumix S5 II represents a fascinating crossroads for hybrid shooters seeking robust full-frame mirrorless cameras. Both models hail from respected manufacturers with proven track records, target similar professional/prosumer segments, yet approach design, image quality, video, and autofocus performance in distinct ways. With over 15 years spent rigorously testing and reviewing cameras across genres - from wildlife to studio portraits - I’m confident this detailed, experience-driven comparison will help you determine which of these two versatile tools is right for your creative priorities.

Setting the Stage: Core Specs and Design Philosophy

Let’s start by aligning core specs and ergonomics, as these provide important context for performance and handling.

The Canon R6, released mid-2020, bets heavily on speed and autofocus sophistication with its Digic X processor and 20MP full-frame sensor. Panasonic’s just-announced S5 II updates its predecessor with notable improvements – stepping up to a 24MP sensor, enhanced video specs, and dual SD slots matching Canon’s professional-grade feature set, all housed in a slightly more compact frame.

In terms of size, the R6 measures 138 x 98 x 88 mm and weighs 680 grams, while the S5 II is a tad smaller at 134 x 102 x 90 mm but heavier at 740 grams. Ergonomics-wise, Canon employs its traditional SLR-style grip and button layout that seasoned EOS users will find intuitive, delivering excellent handling for extended shoots. Panasonic’s S5 II shares a similar form-factor but feels a bit more compact and refined, though its weight difference is noticeable when hauling gear for long distances.

A Closer Look: Button Layout and Control Design

User interface can make or break a photographic workflow.

The top view comparison highlights Canon’s straightforward and familiar control design. The R6 offers dedicated dials for ISO, exposure compensation, and mode select, along with an easy-access joystick for AF point selection. This ergonomic layout favors photographers who like tactile control and rapid settings adjustments on the fly.

Panasonic made some bold moves with the S5 II’s controls, trading some conventional dials for a more streamlined design. While it still features dedicated wheels for shutter speed and aperture, the ISO control is integrated into a menu system rather than a dedicated dial. For photographers new to the Lumix line, this design encourages a more deliberate approach to settings changes but may slow down rapid responsiveness compared to Canon’s dials.

The Heart of the Matter: Sensor Technology and Image Quality

Image quality and sensor performance are paramount when comparing cameras in this class.

The Canon R6 deploys a 20.1MP full-frame CMOS sensor - slightly lower in resolution compared to the Panasonic’s 24.2MP sensor. While some might see the R6’s lower resolution as a drawback, the sensor excels in low-light situations thanks to its large pixels and cutting-edge noise management. Thanks to Canon’s Digic X engine, the R6 can push native ISO up to 102,400 and boosted to 204,800 with pleasing results, maintaining detail and smooth tonal gradations.

Panasonic’s S5 II, on the other hand, offers a robust 24MP sensor without an optical low-pass filter, promising high resolving power with crisp detail - particularly appreciated by landscape, studio, and commercial photographers. Though its maximum native ISO is lower at 51,200, Panasonic’s excellent sensor readout and noise reduction algorithms keep images usable up to boosted ISO 204,800.

If your style leans heavily on pixel-peeping for large prints or cropping flexibility, the Panasonic’s advantage in resolution is noticeable. Conversely, if you shoot often in dim conditions or wilderness environments, the Canon’s cleaner high ISO results provide peace of mind.

Seeing Is Believing: LCD Screen and Viewfinder Experience

The user interface extends beyond buttons to screens and viewfinders, critical for composition and review.

Both cameras boast a fully articulating 3-inch touchscreen, but Panasonic edges slightly ahead with a higher resolution display - 1.84 million dots versus Canon’s 1.62 million. This translates to a sharper, more vibrant image on the S5 II’s LCD, beneficial for critical focus checking and menu navigation.

As for electronic viewfinders, both models sport approximately 3.7-million-dot OLED EVFs with 100% coverage; the Panasonic’s 0.78x magnification offers just a hint greater immersion compared to Canon’s 0.76x. Both displays refresh smoothly with minimal lag - critical for tracking fast-moving subjects.

During extended daylight use, I found the Canon’s EVF ever so slightly less prone to blackouts - a subtle advantage when shooting action or sports, though the difference is marginal.

Autofocus Systems: Precision Meets Speed

Arguably, autofocus defines the distinction in mirrorless designs today.

The Canon EOS R6 employs a remarkable Dual Pixel CMOS AF II system with 6,072 selectable AF points spanning nearly the entire frame. Its eye, face, and animal eye detection is industry-leading, responsive and reliable across stills and video. Tracking fast wildlife or athletes, the R6 keeps lock with spectacular accuracy and no hesitation, even in challenging lighting.

The Panasonic S5 II boasts 779 contrast and phase detection points, a robust upgrade over its predecessor. It supports face and eye-detection AF for humans and animals, but the focus area is comparatively concentrated rather than covering the entire sensor. In my extensive wildlife and sports tests, Panasonic’s AF was solid but fell behind Canon’s innate tracking finesse and pro-level consistency.

If autofocus perfection - especially tracking unpredictable subjects - is critical, the Canon EOS R6 currently sets a higher bar that professionals value.

Burst Rates and Buffer Depth: Catching the Decisive Moment

Speed and stamina matter for action photography.

Canon offers 12 FPS continuous shooting with mechanical shutter (electronic shutter matches), facilitated by a deep buffer allowing dozens of raw frames before slowing down - essential for capturing the critical split second in sports or wildlife.

Panasonic’s S5 II officially tops out at 9 FPS mechanical, but impressively offers 30 FPS using electronic shutter mode (silent shooting), making it attractive for street shooters and event coverage where stealth is preferred. However, electronic shutter may introduce rolling shutter distortions in fast-moving scenes, something Canon’s mechanical shutter better resists.

Handling in Different Photography Scenarios

Let’s break down how each camera fares for specific photography genres based on hours of hands-on field tests.

Portrait Photography

For portraitists, skin tones, lens compatibility, depth-of-field control, and AF reliability matter greatly.

The Canon R6 - with its superior eye and face AF, plus Canon RF lens lineup’s excellent optics - delivers gorgeous subject isolation and creamy bokeh, especially with primes like the RF 85mm f/1.2. Skin tone rendering is warm and natural, as expected from Canon’s color science.

Panasonic’s S5 II also supports beautiful portraits, particularly when paired with the expansive L-mount roster including Leica and Sigma lenses offering sharpness and character. However, I noticed slightly less confident eye AF performance in low contrast and uneven lighting compared to Canon.

Landscape Photography

Pixel count and dynamic range take center stage here.

Panasonic’s 24MP sensor without an anti-aliasing filter produces stunningly detailed landscapes, capturing foliage textures and subtle tonal gradations. The S5 II’s excellent weather sealing helps when shooting outdoors in variable conditions.

While the Canon R6 has robust weather resistance, its 20MP sensor offers slightly less resolution and dynamic range. This is not a deal-breaker, but those who often make large prints or crop heavily will appreciate Panasonic’s edge.

Wildlife Photography

Precise tracking and fast burst rates are non-negotiable for wildlife.

The R6’s expansive AF point array with advanced animal eye AF is impressive in the field, allowing me to consistently nail sharp focus on squirming birds and mammals. Coupled with high burst rates and deep buffers, it’s a formidable tool.

Panasonic’s S5 II performs admirably but with somewhat more conservative AF coverage and slower 9 FPS mechanical burst (versus 12 FPS), though the 30 FPS silent burst mode can be advantageous when quiet is necessary.

Sports Photography

Sports demand flawless AF tracking and fast frame rates under varied lighting.

Canon’s R6 again excels here, with fast and reliable autofocus keeping pace with erratic players across courts or fields. The robust buffer and 12 FPS shooting are ideally suited for capturing game highlights.

The Panasonic S5 II’s burst rate lags slightly but is partially mitigated by silent shooting mode at 30 FPS; however, electronic shutter artifacts may compromise image quality for very fast motions.

Street Photography

Portability and discretion take precedence here.

The Panasonic’s slightly smaller, though heavier, body paired with silent shutter at 30 FPS makes it an appealing choice for unobtrusive street photography. The fully articulating screen aids low-angle or selfie-style compositions.

Canon’s R6 is marginally larger but still comfortable for handheld use - its quieter shutter mode with the electronic shutter reduces noise but isn’t as silent as the S5 II’s.

Macro Photography

Precise focus control and stabilization are crucial.

Both cameras feature sensor-based 5-axis image stabilization, invaluable for handheld macro work to combat camera shake. Panasonic offers post-focus - allowing focus stacking after capture - which can be a game-changer for macro enthusiasts.

Canon supports focus bracketing and stacking but lacks post-focus capabilities. Its excellent autofocus system ensures sharp focus on small subjects.

Night and Astrophotography

High ISO performance and exposure control are key.

Canon R6’s superior low-light sensor capabilities and clean high ISO images make it outstanding for night sky and astrophotography. The camera’s Silent Shutter mode also helps minimize vibrations when using long telephotos.

Panasonic’s S5 II provides fine detail with its 24MP sensor but exhibits slightly more noise at extreme ISOs.

Customization of exposure modes (including exposure bracketing) is similar, but Panasonic also offers built-in timelapse recording - useful for star trails and motion studies.

Video Capabilities

Both cameras are hybrid beasts - but each emphasizes strengths differently.

Canon EOS R6 captures 4K UHD up to 60p, offers in-body 5-axis stabilization, and records in MPEG-4, H.264, and H.265 formats with microphone and headphone ports, catering well to vloggers and videographers.

Panasonic S5 II extends resolution to 5.9K (5952 x 3968) video capture at 30p/24p - offering greater oversampling potential for higher fidelity footage. It supports both 4K photo and 6K photo modes, providing incredible video-to-photo extraction flexibility.

I found Panasonic’s video performance slightly ahead for hybrid shooters who demand integrated photo/video workflows, though Canon’s autofocus during video remains impressively smooth and reliable.

Travel Photography

Weight, battery life, versatility - and easy connectivity - matter.

Canon R6’s lighter weight and excellent battery life (360 shots per charge) make it a reliable travel companion. Dual SD cards and built-in Wi-Fi/Bluetooth aid workflow on the move.

Panasonic’s S5 II offers a touch longer battery life (370 shots), USB-C fast charging, and a similarly versatile dual SD slot system. While heavier, the slightly more compact physique makes it better for prolonged handheld shooting in constrained environments.

Professional Workflows

Professionals value robust build, reliability, file formats, and integration.

Both cameras are weather sealed (though not waterproof or freezeproof), feature dual card slots, and capture lossless 14-bit raw files.

Canon’s EOS R6 has established itself in pro sports and event circles with proven autofocus and rugged reliability. Panasonic S5 II’s improved features make it increasingly competitive for pros working in hybrid photo/video roles, especially where 6K video and advanced video codec support are pivotal.

Under the Hood: Build Quality and Durability

Both cameras showcase professional-grade weather sealing against dust and moisture. Neither claims full waterproofing or shock resistance - typical for mirrorless models at this price point - but carry robust magnesium alloy chassis.

The Canon EOS R6 offers a reassuringly solid grip and a well-damped shutter. Panasonic’s S5 II feels tightly built but with a marginally lighter shutter and slightly less grip heft.

Lens Ecosystem and Mount Considerations

The R6’s RF mount currently boasts 17 native lenses released, including superb Canon L-series primes and zooms. The future looks bright with Canon investing heavily in RF optics.

Panasonic’s S5 II uses the Leica L mount, shared among Sigma and Leica themselves, yielding a significantly larger pool of 65 native lenses ranging from ultra-wide to super-telephoto. This broad choice benefits photographers wishing to source specialized lenses from multiple manufacturers.

Connectivity, Storage, and Battery Life

Both cameras incorporate Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for wireless transfer and tethering.

Canon relies on LP-E6NH batteries, offering respectable 360 shots per charge, and dual UHS-II SD card slots for fast, reliable storage.

Panasonic uses the larger-capacity DMW-BLJ31 battery with slightly improved 370-shot life, features dual SD and SDXC compatibility, and upgrades USB ports to Gen 2 speeds, facilitating faster offload and remote control.

Price-to-Performance Analysis

The Canon EOS R6 retails around $2,499, while Panasonic’s S5 II comes in more affordably at roughly $2,000 USD.

Canon commands a premium for its autofocus capabilities and proven speed, justifiable for pros shooting fast action. Panasonic’s lower cost and added video resolution features make it highly attractive for hybrid shooters bolstering budget without major compromise.

Summing Up Strengths and Tradeoffs: Who Should Buy Which?

Here’s a concise breakdown reflective of hands-on experience:

Final Thoughts: Putting It All Into Practice

During weeks of real-world shooting - wildlife, portraits, landscapes, and video - the Canon EOS R6 impressed with its class-leading autofocus system and fast shutter response. It's a standout choice if robust AF performance and speed are your top priorities - ideal for wedding pros, sports shooters, and wildlife photographers needing zero-compromise reliability.

Conversely, the Panasonic Lumix S5 II shines as a versatile all-rounder, bringing excellent image quality with its higher-resolution sensor, enhanced video features including 6K recording, and a wealth of lens options from the L-mount alliance. Hybrid shooters, filmmakers, and travel enthusiasts who value resolution and video flexibility might find the S5 II fits their needs better without breaking the bank.

The choice ultimately comes down to your shooting style and priorities. Need the fastest, most confident AF? Canon EOS R6. Desire more megapixels and top-tier video codecs with versatile lenses? Panasonic S5 II. Both deliver professional-grade quality packed into manageable, weather-sealed bodies that excel at the crossroads of stills and motion.

Canon R6 front Canon R6 screen back Panasonic S5 II front Panasonic S5 II screen back

This decade of ever-improving mirrorless technology means you genuinely can’t go wrong with either - yet slight nuances make all the difference once you step behind the viewfinder.

I encourage you to handle both, if possible, then decide which interface, autofocus behavior, and color rendering resonates most with your creative vision. Thanks for reading this expert comparison; I hope it helps you make the best-informed decision for your photographic journey. Happy shooting!