Panasonic HC-X2 & HC-X20 4K 1.0″-type Sensor Camcorders

Panasonic has announced its new HC-X2 and HC-X20 4K 1.0″-type Sensor Camcorders at IBC 2022.

These two new 4K 1.0″-type sensor models are being targeted at users who are working in fast-paced environments such as news and live events. Both cameras include a 20x optical zoom with a 24.5mm wide-angle capability, up to 10-bit 4:2:0 UHD 4K60 and 10-bit 4:2:2 4K30 internal recording, Face Detection Autofocus, Auto Exposure, HEVC recording, livestreaming, built-in Wi-Fi, and dual XLR audio inputs.

There are multiple recording modes you can choose from, including HEVC recording, high bit-rate options up to 200Mb/s UHD 4K60 in Long GOP 10-bit 4:2:0 MOV, 100Mb/s UHD 4K60 in Long GOP, 4:2:0 10 bit, MP4, and variable frame rates (VFR) ranging from 2 to 120 fps.

The HC-X2 and the HC-X20 offer greater resolution than earlier Panasonic AG and HC models beacuse of the inclusion of a 1.0″-type, 15MP sensor. They also feature the ability to record in V-Log and they have professional interfaces such as interfaces like SDI and LAN. This allows them to be integrated into live productions along with other cameras. The RJ45 GbE (Gigabit Ethernet) port can provide a network connection using a router and the USB port can be linked to your smartphone or tablet for tethering.

An integrated Wi-Fi module on the X2 and the X20 offers both camera control and livestreaming at resolutions up to 1080p60 using a separately available mobile router. Use your tablet with the downloadable HC ROP app for wireless control of up to eight cameras.

The HC-X2 also features a BNC timecode in/out and it can output SDI and HDMI simultaneously. It is important to note that only the EVF or the LCD screen will work when outputting SDI and HDMI simultaneously. They both can’t be used.

Both cameras feature dual card slots and the option to relay, or simultaneous record to two cards at once. With the X2 you can do dual codec recording where footage can be recorded simultaneously in UHD 4K and full HD (50 Mb/s) or full HD (100 Mb/s or higher).

The HC-X2 and HC-X20 can both record in HDR and HLG and Panasonic claims they have a dynamic range of 13 stops when using V-log.

Autofocus (AF) is available in all resolutions and frame rates and there is improved Face Detection AF and tracking. The in-built lens on both models features individual focus, iris, and zoom rings. The focus can also be set to Nonlinear, Linear, and Set modes. Nonlinear matches the focus movement to the speed with which you rotate the focus ring. Linear adjusts the focus at a constant speed and you can use Set for selecting a focus when in Linear mode. There is also face detection AF, color peaking, and 1-touch AF when using manual mode.

5-axis Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS) and Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) are also available. The three available modes available: Normal (standard), Stable (for fixed frame shots), and Pan/Tilt.

As you would expect, both cameras feature built-in clear and three ND filters (1/4, 1/16, 1/64).

Both cameras feature a 3.5″ touchscreen LCD monitor and a color OLED viewfinder.

Built-in video assist tools include a waveform, vectorscope, zebra, a horizon level, adjustable luminance levels, and flash-band correction.

As far as audio is concerned, there are dual XLR audio inputs with selectable 48v phantom power/mic/line options, 24-bit linear PCM recording, and independent level control for each channel, onscreen display levels, and a 3.5mm stereo headphone jack

There is also an IR mode you can use that can be assigned to a user button. This allows you to shoot in very dark conditions where there is almost no light.

According to Panasonic, you can get around 7.5 hours of recording time with the X2 and 9 hours for the X20 when using the 86Wh AG-VBR118 battery.

Price & Availability

The HC-X2 retails for $3,199.99 and it is now available to pre-order. The HC-X20 retails for $2,599.99 USD.