Panasonic has just launched two new camcorders, aimed at the family moviemaker and budding filmmakers. The HC-VX3 offers 4K shooting, whilst the simpler HC-V900 offers 2K video resolution.
With new consumer-focused camcorders rarely being launched nowadays - and companies like Canon discontinuing its cheaper models - so the new additions are a very welcome addition.
Camcorders had their heyday back in the 1990s, but have become less popular as smartphones and video cameras have become such a viable alternative to the casual moviemaker. However, the form factor and the huge built-in zoom mean that the modern digital camcorder remains a very sensible option for many filmmakers.
The new VX3 and V900 are essentially replacements for Panasonic's VX1 and V800/V808, which were launched way back in 2018. The updates bring a suite of useful additions - including USB-C charging, a remote control socket, and an improved LCD that now offers touchscreen functionality.
Both models offer a microphone input and offer wifi connectivity.
Panasonic HD-VX1
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(Image credit: Panasonic)
(Image credit: Panasonic)
(Image credit: Panasonic)
(Image credit: Panasonic)
The Panasonic HC-VX3 uses a 1/2.5in 8.5MP sensor to offer 4K recording at 30fps. The built-in 24x zoom offers the equivalent coverage of a 25-600mm zoom, with a bright maximum aperture of f/1.8, and 5-axis image stabilization.
The 1.5-million dot 3in LCD touchscreen folds out, swivels and rotates to aid shooting from a variety of angles - including vlogging straight to camera.
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Weighing 433g, the VX3 records to a single SDXC memory card, and offers 3.5mm sockets for both connecting an accessory headset and microphone.
HC-VX3 is equipped with Timestamp recordability and Audio Line-in which are designed to appeal to more professional users.
Panasonic HD-V900
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(Image credit: Panasonic)
(Image credit: Panasonic)
(Image credit: Panasonic)
(Image credit: Panasonic)
The V900 is very similar to the VX3, but records in Full HD rather than 4K. The has the same 24x zoom range, and uses the same 1/2.5in CMOS sensor, and also features an identical 3in articulating touchscreen LCD.
Although the V900 offers a very-welcome mic input - it doesn't offer the audio line input function of the VX3, and also does without the timestamp.
The Panasonic VX3 is available to order now for $899.99 / £679, while the V900 will sell for $699.99 / £529. Both are scheduled to go on sale towards the end of November.
Chris George has worked on Digital Camera World since its launch in 2017. He has been writing about photography, mobile phones, video making and technology for over 30 years – and has edited numerous magazines including PhotoPlus, N-Photo, Digital Camera, Video Camera, and Professional Photography.
His first serious camera was the iconic Olympus OM10, with which he won the title of Young Photographer of the Year - long before the advent of autofocus and memory cards. Today he uses a Nikon D800, a Fujifilm X-T1, a Sony A7, and his iPhone 15 Pro Max.
He has written about technology for countless publications and websites including The Sunday Times Magazine, The Daily Telegraph, Dorling Kindersley, What Cellphone, T3 and Techradar.
