@@VideoGizmology One of photo/videography's greatest misconceptions and still taught...yet incorrect. What makes an image...? The film or sensor captures the light it is exposed to. Changing iso does nothing more than brightening or darken your exposure. Yet is not part of exposure itself. Iso has no effect on the amount of light going through the lens. Yet a pol. filter or nd filter do...
@@michelvondenhoff9673 if you want to be technical then neither film nor sensor “capture” light. Sensors just measure the amount of RGB light at that point. It never gets captured, it’s just reflected and radiated through the camera. Iso/gain is a the amount of amplification of image signal. Just like with sound or any signal for that matter , the more the a signal is boosted the more NOISE/artifacts are introduced. Also if you want to be super technical then there is no exposure triangle. There is only shutter speed. Since it’s what literally exposes/times how much a film is exposed or how much time a sensor measures light.
24:43 Panasonic and other brands primarily market these camcorders to young/new families with small children. Much of the marketing material contains parents filming their young child. The mother's or father's reaction face is featured in the picture-in-picture mini-screen. One of the proposed uses is recording your child's Sports Day or School Entrance ceremony, whilst simultaneously recording the camera operator's cheering/smiling/crying reactions.
Great video, i've been looking at camcorders and had already decided on the vx1. It's a real shame Sony and Panasonic have forgotten the camcorder, they're so much more fun on holiday than a DLSR.
I just got mine and trying to learn all of it for a UA-cam channel my iPhone 13 in my opinion does better, but it does not go out for and there’s a lot of times you need a camcorder
I just bought the VXF1 which is the same as this apart from the reverse camera... The wide angle lens with 600mm zoom and the EVF and manual settings ticked a lot of boxes for me... Thanks for this video, very helpful...
FYI, you can indeed record the PIP with the secondary camera AND record a "back up" clean feed of the main image without the PIP. See page 62 of the manual. Perhaps now you can recommend this great camera.
You misunderstood me. I said you cannot record both the PIP and main camera to separate video files. Page 62 says you can record 2 video files, one will be the main camera blended with the PIP and the other file will be just the main camera. However, you cannot record the PIP to its own individual video file, separate from the main camera, which was my criticism and why the PIP is more useless than useful.
The frustrating thing is I'd be all in on a larger sensor camcorder. Panasonic had the right idea with the DVX2000 but it was priced for ENG use and thus was never economical. Trot out a $1200 version and I'd have bought 4 for my multicam shoots. I miss the camcorder ergonomics.
There's another model: the VXF1, that doesn't have the useless p.i.p camera, but retains the electronic viewfinder, and the ring controls. A more acceptable compromise, I think.
hmmmm, in my case, the twin camera is the main reason of having panasonic, since I like to shoot while talking and wanted to be part of the video, fyi the previous version twincam-enabled camera support for recording main video separately. I really wondering if they make one twin-cam enabled that inline with latest tech (4k60fps/1inch sensor), etc
The inverse of camera vs camcorders is run time. No camera has extended run times under $1000. That's the bottle neck. Full manual controls but 30min run time unless you pay at least $1200, unless it's a vlogger style camera without an EVF or OVF. You have the Sony ZV line, and a6000 line, Nikon Z30. With the a6100, a6400, and a6600, they were priced under $1k but no lens. By the time you bought the lenses that covered the focal length of a camcorder, you were at $1100 minimum and those cameras came with problems for video ie overheating and super short battery life.
Just recently bought the VX-1. Your review pretty much sums up my thoughts. Whilst it's excellent at zooming and stabilising your footage, the image quality is pretty poor. I still hope to get good use out of it, but if I do it'll most likely be used outdoors when it's sunny. It's a real shame there aren't any camcorders that have decent image quality whilst not being too expensive as I'm a huge fan of the ergonomics of the camcorders. Seems like you have to spend something over $2000 to get decent image quality :(
I think the Panasonic has good image quality.. Shoot outside or indoors with plenty of light and image looks great. I’ve been using them for a couple of years and no complaints.
Nah his review does not sum up your thoughts. He didn't say image quality was poor. He said the image quality was poor in low light and fantastic in good light.
have tried one these days and I agree with you, overall the image quality both fullhd and 4K are very poor considering the price. curious fact: their entry level model hc-v180 records better fullhd video! this is a shame, i openly say that this camcorder is a scam. it seems that older model hc-vx980 have better image quality than this one, also sony fdrax53 is far superior in video quality. panasonic and sony need urgently to put on the market new, better improved models. these are all old technology from 7-8 years ago. this is a shame.
The manufacturers didn't simply give up on them, people chose not to review them. When the US switched from mostly TV advertising to YT advertising where content creators control momentum, that's when the shift took place. Camcorders are superior to Mirrorless cameras for video, however the avg. video shooter thinks a camcorder is old tech. They rarely if at all overheat, far better stabilization even old Camcorders, far longer and I mean in some cases 10x the battery life of a DSLR or Mirrorless camera, superior handling, all video controls built in for manual use, the list goes on. They're also just as cable taking photos with the correct sensor design for video, interchangeable lens options, etc.... Yada yada. They're not "" Cool but you're starting to see celebrities use old Camcorders, so now the public is starting to find old camcorders and digi cams.
Yup, I agree, but if you look at the main camera manufacturers (Sony, Canon, Panasonic, JVC), they haven't released any new sub-$1000k camcorder in the past few years. They've released prosumer camcorders, action or speciality cameras, or slightly modified camcorders like the AX43, which was basically the AX53 technology, but none of the manufacturers are releasing significant updates to their sub-$1000k camcorder line. This is why I feel like they've given up for this specific segment of the market.
@@VideoGizmology Smartphones took that market. It doesn't make sense for someone to purchase a whole camcorder that cost as much but can't outperform a smartphone. Even calling the little camera on the front of the LCD screen a gimmick, I've heard that from others, but that's what killed that market. With mirrorless cameras and those who buy them over a camcorder are misinformed. Camera industry is making a killing off people ignorance. You have to pay 3x as much to get what $1k-$1.5k camcorder can give. Let's say the body cost $800 for the cheapest mirrorless the a6600 Sony. You gotta buy 3 lenses to get the focal length. You gotta buy 6 batteries or rig a battery pack. You gotta buy a gimbal to get the same stabilization b/c not matter what IBIS they use it doesn't come close yet. Lastly they don't have the ports, form factor, built-in ND filters or heat dissipation. You gotta buy a whole rig to create a heavier, more expensive, less capable camera that to get the same video quality have to plug in an external recorder. All that in the name of blurry backgrounds 😭 that literally can be done buy stepping backwards or putting on an ND filter. Our industry is moving more towards video so if I was the camera makers, I wouldn't inform them either, not of these people are dumb enough to spend $3k-$6k rigging out a kit that doesn't even come with a proper eyepiece.
also those gimbals break or irreparably malfunction. Plus if it does work they gotta balance them 😭 look over at the camcorder guy that just opens his LCD screen. If Khaby Lame made a meme about mirrorless kit users vs camcorders it would be hilarious 😆 The manufacturers literally have one of the best advertiser's to switch people over to camcorders
when recording out of 2 viewfinders.. and once you upload footage. will it automatically be a box within the box? or can you separate both footage that was caught on the 2 cameras?
Good video. It’s interesting how some ppl are straight out boring when they talk with no b rolls and all whereas you aren’t. Good job. Oh and btw…you don’t know what MNL stands for? Really dude? 🤣🤣🤣🤣MNL…. MaNuaL… cmon it’s pretty intuitive haha.
We have the VX F1 (no 2nd camera but it has an eye piece) and the internal mike I find unacceptable in windy conditions. We either use a Rode Video Micro with a dead cat or Rode Go II to get good audio. There certainly isn't much in this price range to choose from these days. It is looking more and more like our next upgrade will be $2k+ because there probably won't be anything in this range by then.
If you are in very bright sunlight, the EVF will help you see your shots better than the LCD, but I took this to the beach and I was fine with the LCD brightness level. So I don't think the EVF is a major selling point between this camera and the VX1. The only advantage the WXF1 has in my opinion is the ring around the lens that you can use for focus or zooming.
I have been looking at this or the Panasonic HC-VXF990EBK which is similar but has a slightly bigger sensor BUT the photosites on the WXF1 has a smaller sensor but bigger photosites so in theory should be better in low light. Have you tried the Panasonic HC-VXF990 / 980 ?
Where did you get the info the photodiode is bigger on these newer models, I can't find, seem like if you want to record in 4K, the new models are nice but if you think 1080p is good enough and you want to record mainly in that resolution, maybe the older purely full hd model might be better because they use 1/2.3 but don't crop like the 4k version of these camcorder, like the w850 stay at 29mm something in full hd but the previous 4k models 991/981 crop to 38 something from the default 29mm lens, and this WXF1 crop to 30 from the default 25, I not sure the cropped picture quality will still better than the 991/981 and these older purely full hd models w850 too, let me know if you know something about this!
If you could chose a camcorder with great video quality, good battery life for traveling, vlogging, hiking, backpacking etc, which one would you chose and why? Doesn't have to be one of these two but generally speaking. It needs to work good in low light and if it has an ir sensor it will also be good but it is not a must. I will be moving alot when filming both myself and others , maybe also put in up on a tripod occasionally. And what do you think about the ax-43 by Sony?
Look at the Panasonic X1500/X2000/CX10 series. They are between $1,500 - $2,500. I have a CX10 and reviewed it on this channel. They are not the best in low light, but better many other camcorders, including the AX43. If that is too pricey for your budget, then the AX43 would be my next pick. None of these camcorders are great in low light, though. If you need a low light camera, you need to get a mirrorless camera, like a Sony A7S or Canon R6.
Hey Vid Giz, thanks so much for the review. I wanted to ask If I could attach an external monitor to use with the camera since I can’t really see LCD in the bright sun? If so what would you recommend. Also could I attach an atomos and record to that instead of SD?
For bright sunlight, you'll need a monitor with around 1000-nits or more, so that limits you to something like an Atomos Shinobi if your budget is under $500. You could also get a Portkeys LEYE II external EVF, but that's $400. Most of your options are going to cost around half what the WXF1 costs, so it actually makes more sense to buy a Panasonic X1500 that has a brighter LCD and EVF.
The VX1 has a wider angle lens which is often better for UA-cam, however I don't recommend the VX1 or the 981k for UA-cam unless you need a long zoom lens. There are better cameras currently on the market, such as a Sony ZV-1 or even an iPhone 11/12/13 Pro. I used to own a Samsung S21 Ultra and that was perfect for UA-cam videos.
That wind noise sucked. I'm just learning about these camcorders, so maybe you can point me in the right direction. I plan to simply turn on the camcorder while I am out taking pictures of trains and uploading the videos to UA-cam. Maybe I'm being cheap, but if I don't need a zoom, is a DJI Osmo Action the way to go since I would simply turn it on to record the train passing by? I want to put out good stuff, but does one really need a fancy Sony FDR-AX700 if I plan to hit record and just let it capture the train passing by? Thanks for your suggestion
I'm not sure of your exact filming situation, but I would still get a camcorder with a zoom to record trains. The reason is distance. If you know you will always be close to the train tracks every single time, then an Osmo Action or GoPro will be fine. But if you are at a distance for whatever reason, you cannot zoom closer with an action camera. At that point, you'd want a camcorder that you can shoot on full auto with a zoom. Zooming to different focal lengths will also give you the ability to get more dynamic shots of trains for variety, unless you only want one kind of shot for everything.
Hi, great review, thanks! I used to have a HS900 over 10 years ago. At the time it was the only HD camera this size, and it was great, except the fact that the manual iris control (via the lens ring) was not smooth, it worked stepwise. For that reason I bought a Canon G10. Now I'm looking for the smallest 4K camcorder, and unfortunately there is no Canon available (G50/70 I find too big). I looked at Sony ax53 but the manual iris/shutter speed problem is a drawback. I have two questions regarding your experience with the VXF1: 1. Does the iris change smoothly when you use the lens ring? It seems so from the video, but I can't tell 100%. 2. It's not clear what happens when you have them both locked manually (iris and shutter speed) and you zoom in. How come it still shows "OPEN" on the screen? Are you sure it doesn't change the shutter speed instead? This issue of changing the exposure when zooming in is unacceptable, I think. Thanks a lot, merry Christmas and happy New Year! P.S. I would be grateful if you could reply sooner rather that later, as I'm considering buying the camera these days.
The iris does not change smoothly in my opinion, but I"m used to more expensive cameras, so maybe it's good enough for your needs. Because the lens is a variable iris, it does not matter if you lock the iris and shutter, the lens will stop down as you zoom in. the iris will automatically stop down, unless you lock the iris at f/4.
@@VideoGizmology Thanks a lot for your prompt reply. Sorry for not having done my homework regarding "variable aperture" lenses. The reason I had not noticed it much with my Canon Legria G10 was because the zoom is only 10x and the lens 1:1.8-2.8. As for the iris not changing smoothly, I still don't understand why this happens with the Panasonic Leica lens and doesn't happen with the Canon Legria G10. Any idea?
I don't think there is a lens hood available for the WXF1. I've never seen one. You'll have to find a third party hood that fits a 62mm thread, but then you won't be able to use filters.
I haven't tried the AX43 yet, but I assume it's just as good as the AX53. I just bought the VX1 and will review that soon on my channel. Early tests indicate the VX1 is equal in image quality to the WXF1 and is currently the cheapest one from all the cameras you mentioned.
Other reviews say the sensor on this camera is the same as the one on the x1500. Ive seen you review the x2000 which is basically the same camera as the x1500. Do you notice a difference in picture quality or in low light?
Yes, I have noticed a different in quality, because the X1500 has a better processor, codec, color and bit depth than the WXF1. But if you want to see a direct comparison, I made another video where I tested the VX1, which is basically the WXF1, against the CX10, which is the X2000/X1500: ua-cam.com/video/nC3YNd9STKA/v-deo.htmlsi=b2l1V8IKOGclvXFM
Hello. You have great video. have you ever used sony mc88? which one do you think has the better video quality result between sony mc88 and panasonic vx1? because at my place their prices are very close.
The Sony MC88 will have much better video quality than the Panasonic VX1. In my area, those cameras are priced very differently. The MC88 is $1,300 and the VX1 is $800.
@@VideoGizmology hi Video Gizmology. thanks a lot for the advice. and if i may know which do you recommend more for night video recording use with a longer zoom capability? I will do a lot of flashlight video recording. because I am a flashlight seller. so my focus is to record videos using a flashlight in low light conditions. in my place the Panasonic VX1 costs around 13 million rupiah and the sony mc88 around 16 million rupiah. :D
Most consumer camcorders are not good in low light. For low light video, get a mirrorless camera like a Sony a6600 or a compact camera like a Sony ZV-1. The zoom isn't as long as a camcorder, but the image will look much better in low light.
The LCD screen is hard to see in direct full sun, so that is a drawback. You'll need an external EVF, brighter LCD monitor, or just cover the LCD with a hood.
When using the manual ring, are you able to control both the iris, and shutter speed? I was reading that when adjusting the iris the camera would try to adjust the shutter (or vice versa) to make sure the exposure was correct.
Yes, you can manually control both the shutter speed and iris individually, but it involves a specific process that is annoying to have to do all the time. I detailed this at 12mins into my video.
Yes, I've used the AX53 and did a review on it: ua-cam.com/video/iYVu1aaHc0M/v-deo.html -- it's similar to the WXF1, but does not offer full manual control like the Panasonic does.
It is good at minimum zoom, picture quality degraded quickly at full izoom (only optical is acceptable), washed colours and not enough detail/sharpness for 4K standards.
Thanks for the video, I have a question though. When the screen is flipped forward for when you're filming yourself, do all the controls on the screen still work? I saw a video showing on the hc-v770 the on screen controls all disappear when the screen is flipped forward
Yes, when you flip the screen towards you in the same direction as the lens, most of the touch screen controls disappear and cannot be used until you flip the screen back to the original position. This makes changing settings while filming yourself impossible.
@@VideoGizmology ah that sucks, I was hoping this had been updated. Well that takes it off the list for me as I need to film myself. Thanks for the help
JVC makes a camera in this price range, the GZ-RY980, but for some reason, it doesn't get a lot of attention. Although it's sold in this country, most of the reviews of it that I've seen are from abroad.
Yes, there is not 2nd camera on the LCD, and there is no control ring, which is the most useful feature. You have to operate all the controls via touch screen on the VX1.
I would only use camcorders for live streaming if you need a longer zoom range while you live stream. If you are not going to zoom or move the camera during your live stream, don't get a camcorder like this. Get a mirrorless camera, DSLR, or webcam if all you are doing is streaming from one room in your office/house/apartment. Now if you need to zoom during the live stream, this is a decent option. I had to live stream a wedding ceremony one time and it was great to be able to zoom into the bride and groom and then zoom out for a wide shot. I would also use camcorders if I were live streaming a church service, stage performance of any kind, speech, or sports event.
These type of smaller camcorders have a specific "look" to them, so if my film project required that "look" then yes, I would use the WXF1 for that project. Having said that, this camera wouldn't be my first choice to film a movie with. I'd use a cinema camera. I might use the WXF1 if I were filming a documentary and needed a small camera with its features, but generally, I'd choose a different camera.
@moreelosilva9407 yes, you can. Really it comes down to your creativity etc. This cam has 24P for film look and combine that with good story, lighting/atmosphere and color grading and you have a film.
It's fine. I think an iPhone is better for talking to camera or a GoPro. These types of small camcorders are only useful if you need the long zoom lens., so sports, nature, events, are ideal for the WXF1. If you just want to vlog, then a smart phone camera is just as good quality with more convenience.
That's true, even though the ZV-1 has rarely ever overheated on me, when I was in a very hot and humid environment, it did shut down after a long filming time.
Hello, I have a HC-VX1 i have found that the autofoucs is so so slow now i dont know if its a problm with the one i have or is it all of them, i never had a problm like this with the other hd pansonic camcorders i have had, i film a lot of cars trucks moveing , and somtimes i have to wait for the foucs to catch up . Martin.
I disagree about your and othsr youtuber statement of the dual camdra is useless, maybe you guys make and edit video often and forgot thefe are people dont want to spend much time to edit, panasonic baked in dual camera and the roess and hold to activate slow motion temporary are ao much tempting to use that other brands doesn't have and make me want one so much, I like tech and edit video too but i dont always want to edit, i want more practical in real time like how Nolan Christopher want practical effect and not CGI mostly, If i able to afford one, i woll get one and make videos to show why dual camera is practical and push Panasonic to keep it in their next camcorders after the just an usb c addition on the VX3 & V900 and also show the night vision more to beinf mlre awareness to these capabilities of camcorder, these are not gimmick, they are new tool, there is no bad tool and art and just if you able to and have story to tell in these format and quality, like low end look is bad for high res quality lover but a good thing for retro looking lover for example! By the way, if you read this far and want tl gelp out, i havent able to get much clients as a freelance designer, can i design sometjing for you like a new logo and merch print and how about I design soemthing for your clients too to help me afford a WXF1 sooner before they get bought by others?
Iso/gain isn't part of exposure.
Not sure what you're talking about here. The exposure triangle is aperture, shutter speed, and ISO/gain.
@@VideoGizmology I beg to differ, it is shutter, aperture and light that hits the sensor.
@@VideoGizmology One of photo/videography's greatest misconceptions and still taught...yet incorrect.
What makes an image...? The film or sensor captures the light it is exposed to.
Changing iso does nothing more than brightening or darken your exposure. Yet is not part of exposure itself.
Iso has no effect on the amount of light going through the lens. Yet a pol. filter or nd filter do...
@@michelvondenhoff9673 if you want to be technical then neither film nor sensor “capture” light. Sensors just measure the amount of RGB light at that point. It never gets captured, it’s just reflected and radiated through the camera.
Iso/gain is a the amount of amplification of image signal. Just like with sound or any signal for that matter , the more the a signal is boosted the more NOISE/artifacts are introduced.
Also if you want to be super technical then there is no exposure triangle. There is only shutter speed. Since it’s what literally exposes/times how much a film is exposed or how much time a sensor measures light.
You are wrong!
24:43 Panasonic and other brands primarily market these camcorders to young/new families with small children. Much of the marketing material contains parents filming their young child. The mother's or father's reaction face is featured in the picture-in-picture mini-screen. One of the proposed uses is recording your child's Sports Day or School Entrance ceremony, whilst simultaneously recording the camera operator's cheering/smiling/crying reactions.
Great video, i've been looking at camcorders and had already decided on the vx1. It's a real shame Sony and Panasonic have forgotten the camcorder, they're so much more fun on holiday than a DLSR.
True. For casual family events a camcorder is much more appropriate. There is almost nothing in between pro-camcorders and junk.
I just got mine and trying to learn all of it for a UA-cam channel my iPhone 13 in my opinion does better, but it does not go out for and there’s a lot of times you need a camcorder
Came to this video after watching Airline Videos use this camera on their livestreams. The quality of the video looks great.
I just bought the VXF1 which is the same as this apart from the reverse camera... The wide angle lens with 600mm zoom and the EVF and manual settings ticked a lot of boxes for me... Thanks for this video, very helpful...
FYI, you can indeed record the PIP with the secondary camera AND record a "back up" clean feed of the main image without the PIP. See page 62 of the manual. Perhaps now you can recommend this great camera.
You misunderstood me. I said you cannot record both the PIP and main camera to separate video files. Page 62 says you can record 2 video files, one will be the main camera blended with the PIP and the other file will be just the main camera. However, you cannot record the PIP to its own individual video file, separate from the main camera, which was my criticism and why the PIP is more useless than useful.
The frustrating thing is I'd be all in on a larger sensor camcorder. Panasonic had the right idea with the DVX2000 but it was priced for ENG use and thus was never economical. Trot out a $1200 version and I'd have bought 4 for my multicam shoots. I miss the camcorder ergonomics.
There's another model: the VXF1, that doesn't have the useless p.i.p camera, but retains the electronic viewfinder, and the ring controls. A more acceptable compromise, I think.
The perfect comment, thanks! That's the combo I've been looking for:)
Can’t find that model anywhere. Pretty sure it’s discontinued
hmmmm, in my case, the twin camera is the main reason of having panasonic, since I like to shoot while talking and wanted to be part of the video, fyi the previous version twincam-enabled camera support for recording main video separately. I really wondering if they make one twin-cam enabled that inline with latest tech (4k60fps/1inch sensor), etc
I've gotten some insanely good footage of a full moon zoomed out with this thing.
Is there a problem with the Sony ax53 that it's stops recording in 4k after a full
seconds
Love the Video Gizmolgy channel!
The inverse of camera vs camcorders is run time.
No camera has extended run times under $1000. That's the bottle neck.
Full manual controls but 30min run time unless you pay at least $1200, unless it's a vlogger style camera without an EVF or OVF.
You have the Sony ZV line, and a6000 line, Nikon Z30. With the a6100, a6400, and a6600, they were priced under $1k but no lens. By the time you bought the lenses that covered the focal length of a camcorder, you were at $1100 minimum and those cameras came with problems for video ie overheating and super short battery life.
They are an excellent camera, used them for all my footage so far
Just recently bought the VX-1. Your review pretty much sums up my thoughts. Whilst it's excellent at zooming and stabilising your footage, the image quality is pretty poor. I still hope to get good use out of it, but if I do it'll most likely be used outdoors when it's sunny. It's a real shame there aren't any camcorders that have decent image quality whilst not being too expensive as I'm a huge fan of the ergonomics of the camcorders. Seems like you have to spend something over $2000 to get decent image quality :(
I think the Panasonic has good image quality.. Shoot outside or indoors with plenty of light and image looks great. I’ve been using them for a couple of years and no complaints.
Nah his review does not sum up your thoughts. He didn't say image quality was poor. He said the image quality was poor in low light and fantastic in good light.
have tried one these days and I agree with you, overall the image quality both fullhd and 4K are very poor considering the price. curious fact: their entry level model hc-v180 records better fullhd video! this is a shame, i openly say that this camcorder is a scam. it seems that older model hc-vx980 have better image quality than this one, also sony fdrax53 is far superior in video quality. panasonic and sony need urgently to put on the market new, better improved models. these are all old technology from 7-8 years ago. this is a shame.
The manufacturers didn't simply give up on them, people chose not to review them. When the US switched from mostly TV advertising to YT advertising where content creators control momentum, that's when the shift took place.
Camcorders are superior to Mirrorless cameras for video, however the avg. video shooter thinks a camcorder is old tech. They rarely if at all overheat, far better stabilization even old Camcorders, far longer and I mean in some cases 10x the battery life of a DSLR or Mirrorless camera, superior handling, all video controls built in for manual use, the list goes on. They're also just as cable taking photos with the correct sensor design for video, interchangeable lens options, etc.... Yada yada.
They're not "" Cool but you're starting to see celebrities use old Camcorders, so now the public is starting to find old camcorders and digi cams.
Yup, I agree, but if you look at the main camera manufacturers (Sony, Canon, Panasonic, JVC), they haven't released any new sub-$1000k camcorder in the past few years. They've released prosumer camcorders, action or speciality cameras, or slightly modified camcorders like the AX43, which was basically the AX53 technology, but none of the manufacturers are releasing significant updates to their sub-$1000k camcorder line. This is why I feel like they've given up for this specific segment of the market.
@@VideoGizmology Smartphones took that market. It doesn't make sense for someone to purchase a whole camcorder that cost as much but can't outperform a smartphone. Even calling the little camera on the front of the LCD screen a gimmick, I've heard that from others, but that's what killed that market.
With mirrorless cameras and those who buy them over a camcorder are misinformed. Camera industry is making a killing off people ignorance. You have to pay 3x as much to get what $1k-$1.5k camcorder can give. Let's say the body cost $800 for the cheapest mirrorless the a6600 Sony. You gotta buy 3 lenses to get the focal length. You gotta buy 6 batteries or rig a battery pack. You gotta buy a gimbal to get the same stabilization b/c not matter what IBIS they use it doesn't come close yet. Lastly they don't have the ports, form factor, built-in ND filters or heat dissipation. You gotta buy a whole rig to create a heavier, more expensive, less capable camera that to get the same video quality have to plug in an external recorder. All that in the name of blurry backgrounds 😭 that literally can be done buy stepping backwards or putting on an ND filter.
Our industry is moving more towards video so if I was the camera makers, I wouldn't inform them either, not of these people are dumb enough to spend $3k-$6k rigging out a kit that doesn't even come with a proper eyepiece.
also those gimbals break or irreparably malfunction. Plus if it does work they gotta balance them 😭 look over at the camcorder guy that just opens his LCD screen.
If Khaby Lame made a meme about mirrorless kit users vs camcorders it would be hilarious 😆 The manufacturers literally have one of the best advertiser's to switch people over to camcorders
when recording out of 2 viewfinders.. and once you upload footage. will it automatically be a box within the box? or can you separate both footage that was caught on the 2 cameras?
it will be a box within a box, no way to separate the two cameras individually. That's why I thought that twin camera was pointless.
Good video. It’s interesting how some ppl are straight out boring when they talk with no b rolls and all whereas you aren’t. Good job. Oh and btw…you don’t know what MNL stands for? Really dude? 🤣🤣🤣🤣MNL…. MaNuaL… cmon it’s pretty intuitive haha.
We have the VX F1 (no 2nd camera but it has an eye piece) and the internal mike I find unacceptable in windy conditions. We either use a Rode Video Micro with a dead cat or Rode Go II to get good audio. There certainly isn't much in this price range to choose from these days. It is looking more and more like our next upgrade will be $2k+ because there probably won't be anything in this range by then.
Thanks for the review , does evf really make difference, compare to VX1 ?
If you are in very bright sunlight, the EVF will help you see your shots better than the LCD, but I took this to the beach and I was fine with the LCD brightness level. So I don't think the EVF is a major selling point between this camera and the VX1. The only advantage the WXF1 has in my opinion is the ring around the lens that you can use for focus or zooming.
@@VideoGizmology Thank you for your reply, i really appreciate it.
I have 4 Canon vixia hv 40 cameras. Love them.
I have been looking at this or the Panasonic HC-VXF990EBK which is similar but has a slightly bigger sensor BUT the photosites on the WXF1 has a smaller sensor but bigger photosites so in theory should be better in low light. Have you tried the Panasonic HC-VXF990 / 980 ?
Where did you get the info the photodiode is bigger on these newer models, I can't find, seem like if you want to record in 4K, the new models are nice but if you think 1080p is good enough and you want to record mainly in that resolution, maybe the older purely full hd model might be better because they use 1/2.3 but don't crop like the 4k version of these camcorder, like the w850 stay at 29mm something in full hd but the previous 4k models 991/981 crop to 38 something from the default 29mm lens, and this WXF1 crop to 30 from the default 25, I not sure the cropped picture quality will still better than the 991/981 and these older purely full hd models w850 too, let me know if you know something about this!
If you could chose a camcorder with great video quality, good battery life for traveling, vlogging, hiking, backpacking etc, which one would you chose and why? Doesn't have to be one of these two but generally speaking. It needs to work good in low light and if it has an ir sensor it will also be good but it is not a must. I will be moving alot when filming both myself and others , maybe also put in up on a tripod occasionally. And what do you think about the ax-43 by Sony?
Look at the Panasonic X1500/X2000/CX10 series. They are between $1,500 - $2,500. I have a CX10 and reviewed it on this channel. They are not the best in low light, but better many other camcorders, including the AX43. If that is too pricey for your budget, then the AX43 would be my next pick. None of these camcorders are great in low light, though. If you need a low light camera, you need to get a mirrorless camera, like a Sony A7S or Canon R6.
could you use a fisheye on this camcorder?
any thoughts on the Canon VIXIA HF G70 that was released not too long ago?
can i shoot 9:16 video format in this camcorder?
Hey Vid Giz, thanks so much for the review. I wanted to ask If I could attach an external monitor to use with the camera since I can’t really see LCD in the bright sun? If so what would you recommend.
Also could I attach an atomos and record to that instead of SD?
For bright sunlight, you'll need a monitor with around 1000-nits or more, so that limits you to something like an Atomos Shinobi if your budget is under $500. You could also get a Portkeys LEYE II external EVF, but that's $400.
Most of your options are going to cost around half what the WXF1 costs, so it actually makes more sense to buy a Panasonic X1500 that has a brighter LCD and EVF.
@@VideoGizmologyI found a place where vx1 and vx981k at same price. Which one would you choose for UA-cam reviews?
The VX1 has a wider angle lens which is often better for UA-cam, however I don't recommend the VX1 or the 981k for UA-cam unless you need a long zoom lens. There are better cameras currently on the market, such as a Sony ZV-1 or even an iPhone 11/12/13 Pro. I used to own a Samsung S21 Ultra and that was perfect for UA-cam videos.
Hi what it like when recording in a lit up street like night shots thanks
That wind noise sucked. I'm just learning about these camcorders, so
maybe you can point me in the right direction. I plan to simply turn on
the camcorder while I am out taking pictures of trains and uploading
the videos to UA-cam. Maybe I'm being cheap, but if I don't need a
zoom, is a DJI Osmo Action the way to go since I would simply turn it on to
record the train passing by? I want to put out good stuff, but does one
really need a fancy Sony FDR-AX700 if I plan to hit record and just let
it capture the train passing by? Thanks for your suggestion
I'm not sure of your exact filming situation, but I would still get a camcorder with a zoom to record trains. The reason is distance. If you know you will always be close to the train tracks every single time, then an Osmo Action or GoPro will be fine. But if you are at a distance for whatever reason, you cannot zoom closer with an action camera. At that point, you'd want a camcorder that you can shoot on full auto with a zoom. Zooming to different focal lengths will also give you the ability to get more dynamic shots of trains for variety, unless you only want one kind of shot for everything.
@@VideoGizmology Good point on the zoom situation of more dynamic shots of trains for variety. Thanks for the response and your post.
Hi, great review, thanks! I used to have a HS900 over 10 years ago. At the time it was the only HD camera this size, and it was great, except the fact that the manual iris control (via the lens ring) was not smooth, it worked stepwise. For that reason I bought a Canon G10.
Now I'm looking for the smallest 4K camcorder, and unfortunately there is no Canon available (G50/70 I find too big). I looked at Sony ax53 but the manual iris/shutter speed problem is a drawback. I have two questions regarding your experience with the VXF1:
1. Does the iris change smoothly when you use the lens ring? It seems so from the video, but I can't tell 100%.
2. It's not clear what happens when you have them both locked manually (iris and shutter speed) and you zoom in. How come it still shows "OPEN" on the screen? Are you sure it doesn't change the shutter speed instead? This issue of changing the exposure when zooming in is unacceptable, I think.
Thanks a lot, merry Christmas and happy New Year!
P.S. I would be grateful if you could reply sooner rather that later, as I'm considering buying the camera these days.
The iris does not change smoothly in my opinion, but I"m used to more expensive cameras, so maybe it's good enough for your needs.
Because the lens is a variable iris, it does not matter if you lock the iris and shutter, the lens will stop down as you zoom in. the iris will automatically stop down, unless you lock the iris at f/4.
@@VideoGizmology Thanks a lot for your prompt reply. Sorry for not having done my homework regarding "variable aperture" lenses. The reason I had not noticed it much with my Canon Legria G10 was because the zoom is only 10x and the lens 1:1.8-2.8.
As for the iris not changing smoothly, I still don't understand why this happens with the Panasonic Leica lens and doesn't happen with the Canon Legria G10. Any idea?
Is it possible to use nd filter? If possible, what size?
Yes, I believe the filter thread is 62mm.
@@VideoGizmology What lens hoods can be used on the WXF1? Can I use a regular camera lens hood?
I don't think there is a lens hood available for the WXF1. I've never seen one. You'll have to find a third party hood that fits a 62mm thread, but then you won't be able to use filters.
Thanks for the vid, and what about the AX43 vs VX1 (isn't the AX43 the cheaper version of the AX53 like the VX1 is for the VXF1?) ?
I haven't tried the AX43 yet, but I assume it's just as good as the AX53. I just bought the VX1 and will review that soon on my channel. Early tests indicate the VX1 is equal in image quality to the WXF1 and is currently the cheapest one from all the cameras you mentioned.
The Pannies are better for manual control.
@@VideoGizmologyplease tell me which one have the longest zoom reach, the ax53 or pana vx1?? Thanks
Panasonic VX1 has longer zoom.
Este modelo es mejor que el Ax53?
Other reviews say the sensor on this camera is the same as the one on the x1500. Ive seen you review the x2000 which is basically the same camera as the x1500. Do you notice a difference in picture quality or in low light?
Yes, I have noticed a different in quality, because the X1500 has a better processor, codec, color and bit depth than the WXF1. But if you want to see a direct comparison, I made another video where I tested the VX1, which is basically the WXF1, against the CX10, which is the X2000/X1500: ua-cam.com/video/nC3YNd9STKA/v-deo.htmlsi=b2l1V8IKOGclvXFM
@@VideoGizmology thank you for the info. I'll check it out.
Hello. You have great video.
have you ever used sony mc88? which one do you think has the better video quality result between sony mc88 and panasonic vx1? because at my place their prices are very close.
The Sony MC88 will have much better video quality than the Panasonic VX1. In my area, those cameras are priced very differently. The MC88 is $1,300 and the VX1 is $800.
@@VideoGizmology hi Video Gizmology. thanks a lot for the advice. and if i may know which do you recommend more for night video recording use with a longer zoom capability? I will do a lot of flashlight video recording. because I am a flashlight seller. so my focus is to record videos using a flashlight in low light conditions. in my place the Panasonic VX1 costs around 13 million rupiah and the sony mc88 around 16 million rupiah. :D
Most consumer camcorders are not good in low light. For low light video, get a mirrorless camera like a Sony a6600 or a compact camera like a Sony ZV-1. The zoom isn't as long as a camcorder, but the image will look much better in low light.
Nice review, btw MNL = "manual"
Thanks. I’m buying the vx1. I’m into videoing animals etc and generally love long zooms. Edit. Hmmm except the VX1 does not have a viewfinder. Needed?
The LCD screen is hard to see in direct full sun, so that is a drawback. You'll need an external EVF, brighter LCD monitor, or just cover the LCD with a hood.
When using the manual ring, are you able to control both the iris, and shutter speed? I was reading that when adjusting the iris the camera would try to adjust the shutter (or vice versa) to make sure the exposure was correct.
Yes, you can manually control both the shutter speed and iris individually, but it involves a specific process that is annoying to have to do all the time. I detailed this at 12mins into my video.
@@VideoGizmology yeah i thought you did but i couldn't find it in the video again. Have you used the ax53 at all? If so is it similar in that regards?
Yes, I've used the AX53 and did a review on it: ua-cam.com/video/iYVu1aaHc0M/v-deo.html -- it's similar to the WXF1, but does not offer full manual control like the Panasonic does.
It is good at minimum zoom, picture quality degraded quickly at full izoom (only optical is acceptable), washed colours and not enough detail/sharpness for 4K standards.
Thanks for the video, I have a question though.
When the screen is flipped forward for when you're filming yourself, do all the controls on the screen still work?
I saw a video showing on the hc-v770 the on screen controls all disappear when the screen is flipped forward
Yes, when you flip the screen towards you in the same direction as the lens, most of the touch screen controls disappear and cannot be used until you flip the screen back to the original position. This makes changing settings while filming yourself impossible.
@@VideoGizmology ah that sucks, I was hoping this had been updated. Well that takes it off the list for me as I need to film myself. Thanks for the help
JVC makes a camera in this price range, the GZ-RY980, but for some reason, it doesn't get a lot of attention. Although it's sold in this country, most of the reviews of it that I've seen are from abroad.
What do you think of the still shots from the camera?
Your phone camera is way better. I wouldn't use the WXF1 at all for still photography.
Viewfinder apart there are difference between WXF1 and VX1 ?
Yes, there is not 2nd camera on the LCD, and there is no control ring, which is the most useful feature. You have to operate all the controls via touch screen on the VX1.
@@VideoGizmology Thanks, The others things are same ? like quality, stabilization...
I haven't owned the VX1, so I'm not sure. I'm going off of the specs I've read on Panasonic's website.
4k photo mode? can ı take photo?
How do these work with capture cards for live streaming?
I would only use camcorders for live streaming if you need a longer zoom range while you live stream. If you are not going to zoom or move the camera during your live stream, don't get a camcorder like this. Get a mirrorless camera, DSLR, or webcam if all you are doing is streaming from one room in your office/house/apartment.
Now if you need to zoom during the live stream, this is a decent option. I had to live stream a wedding ceremony one time and it was great to be able to zoom into the bride and groom and then zoom out for a wide shot. I would also use camcorders if I were live streaming a church service, stage performance of any kind, speech, or sports event.
do you know if it can do super mo? 120 FPS?
It does not shoot super slomo, you'll have to slow down in editing.
Can I get a link on that bigger battery please
the link is in the description section
Does it have ir night vision i cant find any info on night vision
Yes, according to the manual.
I wish they would make this without the sill second camera! Absolutly no use in my opinion!
Would u try to make a movie or a short film with this cam.?
These type of smaller camcorders have a specific "look" to them, so if my film project required that "look" then yes, I would use the WXF1 for that project. Having said that, this camera wouldn't be my first choice to film a movie with. I'd use a cinema camera. I might use the WXF1 if I were filming a documentary and needed a small camera with its features, but generally, I'd choose a different camera.
@moreelosilva9407 yes, you can. Really it comes down to your creativity etc. This cam has 24P for film look and combine that with good story, lighting/atmosphere and color grading and you have a film.
Is this camera also good for irl content creation?
what does "irl" mean?
@@VideoGizmology "In Real Life" - aka a person talking, etc
It's fine. I think an iPhone is better for talking to camera or a GoPro. These types of small camcorders are only useful if you need the long zoom lens., so sports, nature, events, are ideal for the WXF1. If you just want to vlog, then a smart phone camera is just as good quality with more convenience.
@@VideoGizmology Thanks a lot
Sony ZV-1 might be better in low light BUT at least this camera wont overheat
That's true, even though the ZV-1 has rarely ever overheated on me, when I was in a very hot and humid environment, it did shut down after a long filming time.
@@VideoGizmology Can I ask you is the zoom on the ZV-1 noisy. Can you hear it during video
Was that Huntington Beach?
Yes
Esta genial !
Hello, I have a HC-VX1 i have found that the autofoucs is so so slow now i dont know if its a problm with the one i have or is it all of them, i never had a problm like this with the other hd pansonic camcorders i have had, i film a lot of cars trucks moveing , and somtimes i have to wait for the foucs to catch up . Martin.
Still good in 2024
Super
Sony AX100 VS WXF1
I prefer auto mode
bad experience with this camera..... no good.
I disagree about your and othsr youtuber statement of the dual camdra is useless, maybe you guys make and edit video often and forgot thefe are people dont want to spend much time to edit, panasonic baked in dual camera and the roess and hold to activate slow motion temporary are ao much tempting to use that other brands doesn't have and make me want one so much, I like tech and edit video too but i dont always want to edit, i want more practical in real time like how Nolan Christopher want practical effect and not CGI mostly, If i able to afford one, i woll get one and make videos to show why dual camera is practical and push Panasonic to keep it in their next camcorders after the just an usb c addition on the VX3 & V900 and also show the night vision more to beinf mlre awareness to these capabilities of camcorder, these are not gimmick, they are new tool, there is no bad tool and art and just if you able to and have story to tell in these format and quality, like low end look is bad for high res quality lover but a good thing for retro looking lover for example!
By the way, if you read this far and want tl gelp out, i havent able to get much clients as a freelance designer, can i design sometjing for you like a new logo and merch print and how about I design soemthing for your clients too to help me afford a WXF1 sooner before they get bought by others?