Panasonic HC-X20E Camcorder

Combining premium optical performance with high image quality, advanced image adjustment functions, and a whole host of connectivity options, the Panasonic HC-X20 is an industry-leading 4K 60p camcorder ready to take on all kinds of shooting scenarios. Thanks to this state-of-the-art tech, Panasonic has created an incredibly versatile camcorder suited to a much wider range of applications.

Panasonic HC-X20 Key Features:

• Professional all-in-one 4K 60p camcorder
• Effective 15 megapixel 1.0 type MOS sensor
• 20x optical zoom with 24.5mm wide angle lens
• 5-Axis Hybrid O.I.S. in both UHD and FHD modes
• High-speed, high-precision AF with face detection
• Triple manual rings for zoom, focus and iris control
• Built-in ND filters to suppress incidental light
• IR (Infrared) cut filter for nightscapes and wildlife
• 3.5-inch, 2760K-dot high brightness LCD monitor
• Tiltable 1,769K-dot-equivalent colour viewfinder
• Double SD memory card slot for recording reliability
• 48kHz/24-bit high-resolution PCM audio recording

Expanded Panasonic HC-X20 Key Features:

Premium Optical Performance for Shooting Precision

With an integrated f2.8-4.5 lens, the HC-X20 boasts an incredibly versatile optical performance with 20x optical zoom ranging from a 24.5mm wide-angle view to a 490mm telephoto perspective. The HC-X20’s i.ZOOM feature takes this a step further with the ability to reach 24x zoom at 4K and an astounding 32x zoom at FHD resolution. This impressive range in such a compact body is achieved using Panasonic’s 4-Lens Drive System, where each group of lenses are driven independently.

Thanks to the versatility of this integrated lens, the HC-X20 is not limited to a single application. The high-speed, high-precision autofocus with face detection reinforces the HC-X20 as an incredibly flexible camcorder. Perfect for portraits, wildlife, sports and more, this feature ensures subjects are always sharp, focused, and accurately exposed. Working with fast-moving subjects is made even easier with Panasonic’s 5-axis hybrid optical image stabilisation (OIS). Using optical and electronic elements, the HC-X20 can detect and correct camera shake, including rotational blurring, for smooth panning and beautifully steady handheld shots.

High-Image Quality for Professional Needs

Combining a resolution of approximately 15.03 effective megapixels, a 1.0-Type MOS sensor offering UHD (3840 x 2160) recording with zero cropping, a moderate depth of field and an effective balance between image quality and sensitivity, the HC-X20 boasts unprecedented image quality. Perfect for professionals, this camcorder supports a wide range of bit rates and formats to suit every creative need.

For internal recording, UHD at 29.98p/25p and FHD up to 59.97p/50p in 4:2:2 10-bit quality are available, while UHD 60p 4:2:2 10-bit can be recorded externally via the HDMI output. Highly efficient HEVC recording (LongGOP/10-bit 4:2:0/MOV) is available at 59.97p/200Mbps, while the file format can be selected from MOV (QuickTime), MP4 and AVCHD.

Designed to Support Advanced Camera Work

The HC-X20 is abound with innovative features to support the needs of video professionals. This myriad of advanced controls includes a triple manual ring for fast, simple and precise control of zoom, focus and iris, 14 customisable user buttons to suit every kind of workflow, and integrated ND filters with 4 settings to help users achieve results that meet their creative vision.

Better yet, the software has just as much to offer as the hardware. With several broadcast-grade image adjustment functions, including Soft Skin, 16-Axis Independent Colour Correction, 8-Mode Gamma and more, users can easily achieve the level of gradation needed for their production.

Also included are several instrumental functions designed to help users monitor essential image information. This includes Waveform Monitoring for determining exposure, Vector Scope for checking saturation, Zebra Pattern for preventing blown-out highlights, Flash Band Correction for resolving split screen brightness, Luminance Level Adjustment to match brightness levels, and finally, Level Guage for checking camera positioning.

A Whole Host of Connectivity Options

The HC-X20’s connectivity options far surpass industry standards to provide a camcorder ready to take on every kind of shooting scenario. The first in a long list of invaluable connections are the 2x SD card slots for continuous shooting as recording media switches automatically from Slot 1 to Slot 2. Users can also utilise unlimited relay recording by switching full cards with new ones, simultaneous recording onto both cards and background recording.

The next most notable set of connections is designed to provide users with high-resolution linear PCM audio recording. Included on the HC-X20 are 2x switchable XLR inputs support +48V Phantom Power Supply/MIC/LINE for recording 24-bit linear PCM (MOV), 16-bit AAC (MP4) or Dolby Audio (AVCHD). And of course, with advanced audio options comes a 3.5mm stereo mini jack output for optional audio monitoring. Bringing all these premium ports together is built-in Wi-Fi, perfect for HC-ROP mobile app users wanting to operate their camcorder wirelessly.

What’s in the box?

• 1 x Panasonic HC-X20
• 1 x AC Adaptor
• 1 x AC Cable
• 1 x Rechargeable Battery Pack
• 1 x Battery Charger
• 1 x Microphone Holder
• 1 x Microphone Holder Screws
• 1 x Input Terminal Cap
• 1 x Eye Cup
• 1 x Lens Hood

FAQs:

What is the difference between HC-X2 and HC-X20 models?

Pansonic’s HC-X2 is the higher-end model of the pair, offering HLG2 (Hybrid Log Gamma) and V-log recording for creating 4K HDR content, ethernet connectivity, simultaneous SDI/HDMI output, and HD live streaming capabilities via a range of streaming protocols. The HC-X2 is suited to medium-scale news gathering and streaming, while the HC-X20 is ideal for small-scale independent interviews and events.

Can I record footage whilst streaming?

Yes. Recording (with modes below FHD) onto SD cards in the camera is possible while streaming - this is perfect for clipping stream highlights and using them on other channels.

Does this have a speaker for video playback?

Pansonic’s HC-X20 features a 20 mm diameter, round speaker for video playback. There is also a 3.5 mm diameter stereo mini jack for audio output to headphones or an external speaker.

Can I use this to take stills?

The Panasonic HC-X20 can be used to take stills. This camera records still images in 3840 x 2160 (16:9), 1920 x 1080 (16:9), and 1280 x 720 (16:9) sizes and a JPEG (DCF/Exif2.2) format.

Does this allow dual codec recording?

No. Dual codec recording is not supported. This feature is only available with the Panasonic HC-X2.

How long does the battery last?

The supplied battery is estimated to last 4 hours and 25 minutes of continuous recording time and takes approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes to charge. This camera is also compatible with the optional AG-VBR89 and AG-VBR118 battery packs, offering up to 8 hours and 50 minutes of continuous recording time.