While many filmmakers tend to gravitate toward film-centric cameras, there is a large subset of content creators that would greatly benefit from a camcorder. In this case, the Panasonic HC-X2 and HC-X20 Camcorders can act as workhorses as 4K, 60p camcorders that are highly capable and ultra versatile.
Panasonic HC-X2 Camcorder
The Panasonic HC-X2 Camcorder is a compact video recorder that offers a powerful integrated lens with 20x zoom capabilities. The wide angle ranges from 24.5mm to 490mm telephoto thanks to its 4-drive lens system, which helps to push the groups individually. Superior focusing speed, stability and tracking performance for both 4K and Full-HD is achieved thanks to face detection AF/AE together with the precise focus lens drive. You can also customize the settings, speed, sensitivity, and area within the menu via the touch screen. AF can be turned off and adjusted manually if desired.
Key Features of the Panasonic HC-X2 Camcorder
- 4K 60p 10 bit Camcorder with Rich Codecs/Protocols
- 4:2:2 10-bit 4K 30p/25p, Slow Motion 120/100fps and VFR 2-60fps
- 15-megapixel 1.0-type MOS Sensor
- High-Speed AF with Face Detection
- 24.5mm Wide-Angle Lens
- 5-AXIS HYBRID O.I.S.
- Optical 20x Zoom
- 13 Stop V-Log, HEVC Codec
- Extremely Bright 3.5” LCD Screen
- SDI/LAN/XLR Terminals
- Built-in Wifi and Live Streaming, Ethernet
- 48-kHz/24-bit High Resolution Linear PCM Audio Recording
Panasonic HC-X20 Camcorder
The HC-X20 offers many of the same features as its big brother, the X2. It still offers a 15 megapixel 4K sensor, optical and electronic image stabilization to correct shake using its five-axis technology, even at 20x optical zoom. You’ll also find two SD memory card slots capable of continuous recording for many hours. To top things off, both cameras offer broadcast-grade camera image adjustment functions. All of these functions allow users to achieve the most convenient and suitable corrections, on the fly, depending on your specific production needs.
Key Features of the Panasonic HC-X20 Camcorder:
- 4K 60p 10 bit amcorder with rich codecs
- 4:2:2 10-bit 4K 30p/25p, HEVC codec
- 15-megapixel 1.0-type MOS sensor,
- Slow motion 120/100fps, VFR 2-60fps
- High-speed AF with face detection
- 24.5mm wide-angle lens
- 5-axis hybrid O.I.S.
- Optical 20x zoom
- Extremely bright 3.5” LCD screen
- XLR terminals
- 48-kHz/24-bit high resolution linear PCM audio recording
Why are These Features Beneficial?
If you’re looking for a lightweight, professional camcorder that can offer a plethora of user friendly functions, you’ve found it. The keyword is “professional.” Having the portability of something compact yet packed with features, functions, and designs, allows you to set up and start shooting at a moment’s notice. Need lots of storage capability? You’re covered. Need a powerful zoom lens to avoid swapping lenses? Check. Ability to record HQ audio via XLR so you can utilize the best shotgun microphones out there? Done.
Everything these days is about speed, turn around times, and saving money. Using either of these camcorders in your setup is sure to save a bit of all three while still keeping your clients happy. If you’re someone who’s already using a camcorder, you’ll find the design familiar and the upgrades to the previous generation — the HC-X1 — a welcome addition.
Best Use Cases
Without a doubt, both the HC-X2 and HC-X20 are geared toward specific kinds of content creators. As mentioned earlier, camcorder-style cameras do have their own loyal fanbase of diehard users. While the X2 leans more toward multi-cam events and live shooting, the X20 leans more towards news shooters and independent, one man bands.
Some examples would be news reporters, documentary filmmakers, weddings, interviewers, sports and events, and even podcasters who find themselves live streaming and need multi-cam setups. One could also argue that these can be great for short film projects.
Comparable Products
The easiest comparison is to its predecessor — the HC-X1 — which was released around five or six years ago. There were plenty of things left to be desired at the time, especially since the Panasonic GH5 was released around the same time.
With this new duo of camcorders, you’ll find a similar sensor but upgraded megapixels from 8 to 15. You’ll also get improved 4K high precision AF, built-in Wifi, and an ethernet port. The lens in the old model was 24mm while in the new models it’s 24.5mm. Focus ring control and built-in ND filters are also still a part of the camcorder lineup. Most importantly, while both new models now offer 4:2:2 10 bit color and the HEVC codec, the X2 offers 13-stop V Log and HLG recording.
Final Thoughts
The “camcorder” is an old design, albeit, a familiar and comfortable one. Keep in mind that camcorders don’t have interchangeable lenses like other camera options. Although, they do have plenty of other great offerings based on your needs. The overall functionality of these types of cameras can be a breath of fresh air for some, and a necessity for others. If you’re someone who likes physical controls instead of a touchscreen menu, then you’ve come to the right place.
Panasonic is no stranger to its target market for the Panasonic HC-X2 and HC-X20 Camcorders. Compared to its predecessor, the HC-X1, the company has added plenty of requested and necessary features to keep up with the times and demands of their consumers. There’s no doubt that these two camcorders are viable options for professionals.
