Panasonic HC-X20 Camcorder

Key Features

• 1.0-type MOS sensor with 15-megapixel effective resolution
• Built-in wide angle Panasonic lens with 20x optical zoom (24.5-490mm full-frame equivalent)
• New Face detection AF/AE and 4K high-precision AF
• Stabilisation from 5-Axis hybrid OIS
• Capture 4K60p (HEVC) with 4K60p 4.2.0-10bit, 4K30p 4.2.2-10bit and 120 Slow 2-60 fps VFR
• Extensive connectivity through USB-C 3.1, built-in WiFi and a new Mic Holder
• Pro 24bit PCM audio with 2x XLR IN
• Built-in 1/4, 1/16, 1/64 ND filter
• Live-streaming in H.264/MPEG-4 AVC FHD

Panasonic HC-X20 Camcorder Summary

Designed for solo filmmakers and broadcast professionals, the Panasonic HC-X20 Camcorder captures stabilised 4K60p (HEVC) video with numerous features and upgrades. A built-in high-quality Panasonic lens provides a 35mm equivalent 20x optical zoom from ultra wide 24.5mm through to 490mm super telephoto range.

A variety of recording formats can be selected for different situations including 4K60p 4.2.0-10bit and 4K30p 4.2.2-10bit as well as 120 Super Slow 2-60 fps VFR. Panasonic added Face detection AF/AE, which acquires and tracks subjects using 4K high-precision AF. Professional audio I can be recorded in 24bit PCM audio using two XLR inputs, and built-in ND filters provide convenient adjustments in different ambient environments. The Panasonic HC-X20 Camcorder also offers exceptional battery performance, with up to 8h 50min. recording from an optional AG-VBR118G (8850mAh) battery.

Panasonic HC-X20 UHD 4K Professional Camcorder in More Detail

Integrated 20x optical zoom lens

This HC-X20 and the simultaneously released Panasonic HC-X2 Camcorder, feature an integrated wide angle 24.5mm lens with 20x optical zoom, which provides an equivalent 24.5-490mm range. You can zoom to a maximum of approx. 32x FHD (24x UHD), while maintaining high-definition image quality.

5-Axis Hybrid O.I.S.

Electronic Image Stabilisation operates iIn addition to Optical Image Stabilisation in both UHD/FHD modes, detecting and correcting handshake in 5-axis, including rotational blurring. This provides powerful correction in a variety of unstable shooting conditions including when capturing low-angle and high-angle shots. Drive wear is reduced through the use of a Ball O.I.S. System which is designed to reduce the effects of minor movements.

Choose from:

• NORMAL (standard)
• STABLE (effective for fixed-frame shooting)
• PAN/TILT (effective in panning and tilting)

High-Speed, high-precision 4K AF technology

Panasonic AF performance is accurate and quick even in various 4K recording situations with great tracking performance and stability. Face detection AF quickly captures subjects even when they first enter the frame and subjects stay in focus even when obstacles pass across.

High-quality and versatile recording formats

The HC-X20 Camcorder offers numerous recording modes and formats including 422 LongGOP, 4:2:2 10Bit 30p and 4:2:0 10Bit 60p.

Super slow-motion recording VFR (2-60fps)

Record from 2 to 60 fps with 10-step VFR (Variable Frame Rate) to create slow-motion effects and quick motion effects. HD mode delivers a super-slow motion effect with a maximum 120 fps (59.94 Hz) or 100 fps (50 Hz). It supports high-quality 10-bit recording in FHD mode using the full sensor area, even at high frame rates.

ND filter and triple manual rings

The Panasonic HC-X20 Camcorder features triple manual rings on the lens barrel for Zoom, Focusand Iriscontrol. These manual functions ensure professional operation with fast and intuitive camera work.

You can also set focus ring operation and movement with Linear and Non Linear adjustment, and rotation angle when Linear is set.

Convenient built-in 1/4, 1/16, 1/64, or clear ND filters allow you to adjust according to shooting conditions.

Two SD memory card slots

With two SD memory card slots unlimited relay recording is achieved by changing SD cards, and provides various recording systems for high reliability. Images can be recorded simultaneously in 4K/UHD + FHD (50 M) or FHD (100 M or higher) + FHD (8 M) for an efficient workflow. Data can be recorded continuously by automatically switching from Slot 1 to Slot 2. Options include:

• Unlimited Relay Recording
• Simultaneous Recording
• Background Recording

Shoot in darkness using IR (Infrared)

Capture night scapes, animals and events in darkness using a built-in IR Cut Filter, which can be turned ON/OFF. Panasonic recommends 850-nm wavelength light.

Supports professional workflows

A number of features are included to support uninterrupted shooting such as a cable clamp on the hand belt, which prevents cable catching. Camera settings can be saved onto SD card to restore settings and multi-cam set-ups. An included new mic holder supports one-touch opening and closing while a fast zoom lever on the grip changes speed according to your input.

48kHz/24-bit high resolution PCM audio

2 x XLR Audio Inputs offer switchable 48-V phantom power supply/MIC/LINE with high resolution sound from 24-bit linear PCM recording in MOV mode. There are also two volume controls catering for each channel, an OSD level meter and headphone jack.

Longer battery life

Enjoy longer recording times up to approximately 8h 50min minutes from a single camcorder battery and compatibility with:

1. AG-VBR118G (8850mAh)

2. AG-VBR89G (8850mAh)

3. AG-VBR59 (5900mAh)

Pro video assist functions

Panasonic has included a number of assist functions which can be displayed on a sub screen of the LCD. These include Waveform Monitor (WFM), Vector Scope and Zebra Patterns. High precision Flash Band Correction, Luminance adjustment and level horizon gauge.

Versatile Network Functionality

Live Streaming

• Connect directly to Facebook or YouTube Live with support for RTMP (Real Time Messaging Protocol)
• Supports streaming distribution of RTMP-compatible content, such as live video distribution services
• Recording onto SD cards in the camera is also possible while streaming with modes below FHD
• Perfect for shooting sports events, concerts or ENG

Learn more about the Panasonic HC-X2 Vs HC-X20 in our camcorder comparison here.

Panasonic HC-X20 Camcorder Specifications

What's in the Box

• Panasonic HC-X20 UHD 4K Professional Camcorder
• AC Adaptor
• AC Cable
• Rechargeable Battery Pack (5,900mAh)
• Battery Charger
• Microphone Holder
• Microphone Holder Screws
• Input Terminal Cap
• Eye Cup
• Lens Hood

Specifications