The black Panasonic 32GB HC-X900M 3D Ready Full HD Camcorder sports a long list of thoughtful features that includes Full HD 1920 x 1080p video recording at 60 fps, clear 5.1-channel surround sound audio recording with Wind Noise cancelling function, the ability to record in 3D (with optional 3D lens), and a 3-sensor 3MOS image sensor system. With such quality recording features, you'll have the ability to produce crisp, rich and detailed images under almost any circumstances.
Panasonic's proprietary 3MOS is a 3-sensor CMOS that adds up to 9.15MP (3 x 3.05MP). These sensors work together with the Crystal Engine PRO II, a fast processor which writes large HD files to memory quickly and efficiently. It also allows for high-res zooming when exceeding the optical range. In addition, the engine works to reduce image noise, rendering beautiful, lifelike images. These two work together to produce 1080/60p footage. The "p" means progressive; when recording in a progressive frame rate the footage captured is more vibrant and detailed than an interlaced (or "i") HD recording. In the world of consumer camcorders, 1080p is the gold standard.
Of course the sensor and engine wouldn't be able to do their job without a high-quality lens. The HC-X900M comes with a 29.8mm f/1.5 Leica Dicomar lens and 12x optical zoom range. It also features a manual ring which can be used for more precise control of focus, zoom, exposure, shutter speed and white balance. HYBRID O.I.S. (optical image stabilization) keeps your shots steady when hand-holding the camera. It reduces the effects of hand-shake for an easy-to-view, clean shot.
The HC-X900M features several other useful tools as well, including a large 3.5" touch screen 3D LCD display and 0.24" EVF. The 3D LCD provides you with options like, Touch Zoom and Touch Shutter. The zoom function allows you to zoom in by dragging your finger across the LCD. The shutter function enables instant touch focus on a particular subject in the frame, and the option to switch to still-image shooting. The camera also features Dolby Surround Sound and five built-in electret condenser microphones. You can capture true Surround Sound that targets your subject, while minimizing wind and extraneous sounds.
In addition, the HC-X900M even allows you to record in 3D, using the optional VW-CLT2 3D Conversion Lens. Your 3D videos can then be played back on any 3D TV that is compatible with the side-by-side method. Still images of up to 16MP can be captured with the HC-X900M as well, and a dedicated iA mode will automatically switch to one of five scene modes for optimized capture.
The HC-X900M has loads of shooting controls, like face detection and Intelligent Auto, which help to take the guesswork out of video recording. These controls will allow you to keep the recording process simple, so you can focus on the moment and not fussing with camera settings. Other features include microphone and headphone connections and a cold shoe for mounting optional accessories. When it comes time to share what you've shot, the HC-X900M provides you with various options as well, from editing software that lets you upload to the web to a fun in-camera playback feature.
| Camera | |
|---|---|
| Sensor | 3x 3.05 Megapixel 1/4.1" CMOS Sensor |
| Pixel Gross | 9150000 |
| Optics | |
|---|---|
| Lens |
2.84 - 34.1 mm f/1.5 - 2.8 |
| Zoom |
Optical: 12x Intelligent (Optical): 23x |
| Filter Size | 49 mm |
| Recording | |
|---|---|
| System | NTSC |
| Recording Media |
Internal Flash Memory 32GB SD/SDHC/SDXC |
| Recording Time | Not Specified By Manufacturer |
| Video Format |
High Definition MPEG AVC/H.264 1920 x 1080p / 60 fps 1920 x 1080i / 60 fps 960 x 540p / 30 fps |
| Still Image Resolution |
JPEG: 16.0 Megapixel, 4896 x 3264 JPEG: 15.1 Megapixel, 4480 x 3360 JPEG: 14.7 Megapixel, 5120 x 2880 JPEG: 8.6 Megapixel, 3600 x 2400 JPEG: 8.6 Megapixel, 3392 x 2544 JPEG: 8.3 Megapixel, 3840 x 2160 JPEG: 6.1 Megapixel, 3024 x 2016 JPEG: 5.8 Megapixel, 3200 x 1800 JPEG: 5.8 Megapixel, 2784 x 2088 JPEG: 0.3 Megapixel, 640 x 480 |
| Channels | 5.1-Channel Stereo |
| Audio Format | Dolby Digital 5.1 |
| Display | |
|---|---|
| Display Type | Viewfinder/LCD |
| Touchscreen | Yes |
| Screen Size | 3.5" |
| Features | |
|---|---|
| Image Stabilization | Optical |
| Lux |
1400 (Standard Illumination) 1.6 (1/30, Low Light, Scene Mode) 1 (Color Night View) |
| Shutter Speed | 1/2-1/2000sec |
| Built-in Mic | Yes |
| Built-in Speaker | Yes |
| Built-in Light/Flash |
Light - No Flash - Yes |
| Accessory Shoe | Cold |
| Tripod Mount | 1/4" |
| Input/Output Connectors | |
|---|---|
| Outputs |
1x USB 2.0 1x HDMI C (Mini) 1x A/V |
| Microphone Input | Yes |
| Headphone Jack | Yes |
| General | |
|---|---|
| Battery | Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery Pack, 7.2VDC, 1250mAh Hours per Charge |
| Charging Method | AC Adapter |
| Power Consumption | Operating: 8.9 W |
| Dimensions (WxHxD) | 2.64 x 2.83 x 5.91" / 6.7 x 7.2 x 15 cm |
| Weight | 14.99 oz / 425 g |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviewsPros
Cons
Best Uses
Most Liked Positive Review
Panasonic HC-X900M HD
The Panasonic Segment:
I have only owned the X900M for 2 weeks, so at this point the unit is still going through my personal R&D however this will end up being...Read complete review
The Panasonic Segment:
I have only owned the X900M for 2 weeks, so at this point the unit is still going through my personal R&D however this will end up being used in a prosumer role. I am quite happy at this time. The range from macro to zoom is fantastic and detail can be determined by the user. Manual functioning can be taken over quite simply with a single button hit. The OIS is very nice. Low light sensitivity is good and I have yet to try the Color Night setting. The 5.1 surround sound and ability to set audio focus is also nice in large gatherings. The external connectivity is nice.
At 1st glance, the price seemed a bit high for a unit wich hasn't changed much over previous versions, but the built-in 32GB storage offsets the cost a bit since this can be used out of the box once charged. There is also an expansion slot for yet more storage or an EyeFi card. USB transfer seems quick.
Cons:
I would like to have seen some high-speed capture (as compared to JVC's flagship) maybe not as high-speed as some, but more than the 60 frame burst. A slightly higher capacity battery would be nice as well for the overall package price.
B&H segment:
This is not my 1st dealing with B&H. I have bought a range of products from B&H and now this camcorder and have never been sorry with my choice. Their service has alsways been perfect in my dealings with them. I even waited until after the passover holiday store closure while I could have gone with a competitor based on price alone. Their free shipping was every bit as timely as an expedited delivery (2 days, order to sign-off acceptance)-- it was NOT "you might see it in 2 weeks because its free".
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Best, Better, or Only OK
I owned three of these Panny 3-chip CMOS cameras, two TM700's and a TM900. Covering events, my partner & I mobile around with a couple of Sony Ex3's but also ...Read complete review
I owned three of these Panny 3-chip CMOS cameras, two TM700's and a TM900. Covering events, my partner & I mobile around with a couple of Sony Ex3's but also used the three small Panny's for still cam views and trick shots. Happy with them I bought another, the X900M at a good price.
This camera does not compare to either of them in my opinion. Here's why. The TM700 seemed a fluke with tremendous battery life, external battery charging, unbelievable steady shot ability and good color/low noise. The TM900 has slightly better color and low light capability but was a step back, with poorer controls, an on camera charger and a very short battery life. The 1250 mA/h batteries only last about 6 months with daily use. On camera charging slowly ruins the battery so buy an external charger. The X900 continues this tradition, but now limits your ability to make long continuous recordings. All of these cameras still suffer from an over anxious Auto-White Balance issue, causing the balance to change mid shooting - the cameras most serious flaw. Use manual settings.
This camera is OK if you don't use it everyday, which is 90% of you. It takes very nice stills for a 3-CMOS, 1/4" chip cam (but nowhere close to a DSLR yet). I implore all users to use manual settings to get the MOST from this camera. AUTO settings will cheat you out of pro-looking shots. Explore this cam. Try the night setting - it has a variable frame rate shutter. GREAT for the HOLIDAYS. It has a lot of features for the price point. Most of you will be happy.
One suggestion: Invest in an on-board microphone (RODE Video-mic Pro is BEST IMO) - You will NEVER use the cam wihout it again. The onboard 5.1 surround audio is way overated. And unless you play it through your 5.1 decoder or download the video/audio files into an NLE that will do 5.1 AND you render it 5.1, forget it! It works OK, but the sound is still not natural. Get an on-board mic. Trust me!
The X900M is OK for average use but DON'T buy if looking for a serious small cam. Panasonic is going backwards with these models in my opinion. Did you know you can't use these cams in a free-fall - read the manual.
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 77 customers
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Pros
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Best Uses
Comments about Panasonic 32GB HC-X900M 3D Ready Full HD Camcorder (Black):
First time I used it I had to look at the directions to figure out how to put the SD csrd in and how to record. I videoed an interview for my history class project and the librarial at school put it on DVD for me. I found that this unit has a great auto microphone level. The DVD was GRRREAT! I can't wait to see what can be done once I learn how to use it.I cannot give a 5 star because I have to use it more, but, I'm lovin' it so far.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Panasonic 32GB HC-X900M 3D Ready Full HD Camcorder (Black):
Great picture quality. Physical zoom button difficult to use. Wish there was another zoom button located some where on camera. Great price for quality picture.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Panasonic 32GB HC-X900M 3D Ready Full HD Camcorder (Black):
I need it for low light, and the auto adjustments work fast and great. I would like the zoom speed to be a little more controllable, but I can work with that. The picture dynamics make up for it.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Panasonic 32GB HC-X900M 3D Ready Full HD Camcorder (Black):
I was very impressed with the quality of video from this camcorder. The image stabilization works very well. I recorded a bit with it on and then off and could tell a big difference.
It's easy to start filming with the auto mode, but when you decide to venture over to manual you'll discover that you can easily control shutter, iris, and focus with the manual ring.
I also like the focus assist. When in manual mode and focusing, the object in focus will be outlined in blue.
I like the fact that this camera accepts lens filters and optional add on lenses, such as tele, wide, and the 3D lens attachment.
I wish the viewfinder pulled out just a bit farther. I purchased the Pearstone VW-VBN390 Lithium-Ion Battery Pack, but with this larger battery it's a bit difficult getting your eye up to the viewfinder.
It would have been nice if the remote worked while standing behind the camera, instead of just in front of it.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Panasonic 32GB HC-X900M 3D Ready Full HD Camcorder (Black):
...and are thinking of replacing a tape-based HD video camera, read on.
Note: this model has been replaced by one with WiFi and improved sensors, so consider that when reading the following review.
Because I shoot nature subjects and don't want to lug two cameras, I bought this for its still as well as video capabilities. Compared to the Canon HD HV20 it replaces, the Panasonic records superior video and slightly superior still images. Compared to the Canon, still images taken by the HC-X900M have:
Increased angular resolution
Less color noise (but luminance noise)
Mostly better color accuracy (depending on subject)
Shorter depth of field at default settings
Less chromatic aberration
Fewer sharpening artifacts at contrast boundaries
The Panasonic is slower to autofocus than the Canon. The Panasonic's controls are a mixed bag. Manual options are good but, as noted elsewhere, the touch screen is not sensitive and might be more accurately described as a jab-and-jab again screen. A more sensitive and multi-touch upgrade would be nice.
The Panasonic's cooling fan is less intrusive than the tape drive motor in the Canon, but it's definitely audible in quiet settings. Let's hope Panasonic reduces power use and is able to ditch the fan.
The Panasonic's electronic viewfinder is higher-resolution than the Canon's, but subtends a smaller viewing angle, so it appears sharper but farther away: not conclusively superior.
The Panasonic's auto-on feature when pulling out the viewfinder or flipping open the side display is very convenient. One thing I miss is the Canon's backlight compensation button; you have to traverse the Panasonic's menus for the same feature. Also, if there's a way to control the menus from the viewfinder I haven't found it.
Overall, the Panasonic is an improvement over the six-year-old Canon, but the improvement is evolutionary and incremental rather than night-and-day.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Panasonic 32GB HC-X900M 3D Ready Full HD Camcorder (Black):
As most people do, I did a lot of research, and it came down to the HC-X900M. It is easy to hold and film with, and the viewfinder is excellent. The battery is rather small, so I bought the extended version, which will give you almost 3 hours. The capture is very easy. You can chose to film on an SD card, or the HD. You also have the option of copying from one to the other. This cam is all about the video, the 1080 video, and it does not disappoint. Great little camera, and when you consider that the Canon G10 is quite a bit more expensive, the HC-X900M is a great buy. If there is one thing to criticize, it's the lame brain software that comes with it. I am having a devil of a time with it, but the camera is a gem.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Panasonic 32GB HC-X900M 3D Ready Full HD Camcorder (Black):
I use the camcorder for family recordings, am very satisfied with outdoor, indoor and low light performance so far.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Panasonic 32GB HC-X900M 3D Ready Full HD Camcorder (Black):
I used it for nature and wildlife videography. The camcoder work great with 12x or 23 x zoom in some distance shotting. Also working great with manual control. The digital zoom 30 x and 700 x not so great. Also the CD HD writer. The rest is great.Love it.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Panasonic 32GB HC-X900M 3D Ready Full HD Camcorder (Black):
Recording in AVCHD2, 60P 1080, incredibly sharp video. Using it for vacation videos.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Panasonic 32GB HC-X900M 3D Ready Full HD Camcorder (Black):
After reading all the reviews and an independent recommondation from a professional videographer I purchased the HC-X900. It does everthing I wanted and it does it well and with an incredibly sharp lens. So, I'm happy and would recommend it. B&H, like always ships fast with never a problem.
Brian
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Panasonic 32GB HC-X900M 3D Ready Full HD Camcorder (Black):
I have done a month of research before purchasing this particular model. In my opinion, it offers by far the best HD video performance for the price. Like every other cam out there it has pluses and minuses, but on the balance this is an outstanding piece of equipment you will not regret buying.
Pros:
--Great optics & stabilization;
--Outstandingly sharp video quality;
--Nice clean stills;
--Very good in low light;
--Viewfinder is super useful in bright conditions, more discreet than flipping LCD in crowded places;
--Manual control ring;
--Easy intuitive controls;
--High res LCD;
--Lots of bells and whistles in manual mode;
--Light and comparatively compact (i.e. vs vixia g10 an sony pj710);
--Robust non-glossy professional looking build;
Cons:
--Quirky video-stills-play switch;
--Rather loose LCD screen;
--Flimsy hand-strap attachment;
--Wind cancellation not as good as Sony's;
--White balance tend to drift a bit in auto mode;
--Tinny speaker sound;
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Panasonic 32GB HC-X900M 3D Ready Full HD Camcorder (Black):
This is a nice lightweight camera that simply takes wonderful video, low light and other conditions. I am really going to enjoy it!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Panasonic 32GB HC-X900M 3D Ready Full HD Camcorder (Black):
We bought this to make videos for the company website, and it is working beautifully for this.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Panasonic 32GB HC-X900M 3D Ready Full HD Camcorder (Black):
Just started using the camera but like it so far. The only problem I have is the viewfinder is quite small. I needed a camera with a viewfinder since I plan to photograph wildlife and need to remain undetected. Otherwise, the camera is loaded with features I like. I just hope I can download and edit my video.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Panasonic 32GB HC-X900M 3D Ready Full HD Camcorder (Black):
I have had this camcorder for about two months. After trying several other brands and being disappointed with the quality.I read several reviews and decided the hcx900m was worth a look. This thing is incredible.An excellent camcorder that offers a lot of control on how you creative you want to be.The manual is a must read to discover this camcorders capabilities.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Panasonic 32GB HC-X900M 3D Ready Full HD Camcorder (Black):
I use this camera to shot interviews with medical professionals. Purchased it after doing lot of research on many industry models. The colors of the HC-X900 are excellent and most natural in manual mood. 100% satisfied with the video quality of this product.
I use external audio recording gear to capture the audio as I can not expect this consumer level cameras built- in mic pre-amp to be the best.
I'm also surprised with the service provided by B&H. I live across the Indian Ocean and the product arrived in 72 hours. UPS took care of all custom clearances as well.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Panasonic 32GB HC-X900M 3D Ready Full HD Camcorder (Black):
The detail and color reproduction of the video is very precise. It has more features than I anticipated which requires some study of the manual. I'm not used to having so many manual capablities in a camcorder at this price. The only thing it lacked was an HDMI cable, but fortunately I had one that fit. Although I will just use it for personal use, it certainly seems capable of making documentaries.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Panasonic 32GB HC-X900M 3D Ready Full HD Camcorder (Black):
I purchased this camcorder from B&H when it first arrived. And, I must say it surpassed my expectations. At first I was using the camcorder in automatic mode which was fine. I later tried the manual mode and was blown away by the color it produces. I film little league football games as a hobby and convert it to blue ray. When the parents saw some of the videos at 1080 60p, they could not believe the footage. The parents no longer wanted copies of the videos filmed by the original hired videographer they all wanted the hc x900 footage. I recommend getting a hood, external mic, extra battery, and tripod for outstanding results. B&H delivery service was excellent. In closing, I have been hired to film the little league football league.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Panasonic 32GB HC-X900M 3D Ready Full HD Camcorder (Black):
I used this over the weekend at a duck hunt. The remote does not like distance. Sometimes it would work at 50 yards and other times it would not work at 5 yards. All in all a nice camera. Also a lot of wind noise feedback.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Panasonic 32GB HC-X900M 3D Ready Full HD Camcorder (Black):
Got this camera on sale at Christmas, GREAT value. Fun yet full of useful features. Like the manual ring around the lense for adjusting 4 important features. Only concern is it does get warm. (There is a label by the battery mounting area that states this is normal). There is a very small fan, maybe 1/2", (that you cannot hear) that is visable when the LCD screen is swung open. Have not used the battery supply yet. Mainly used to film entire basketball games for high school coaches with AC cord. This camera looks and feels like a great prosumer piece of equipment.
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviewsPros
Cons
Best Uses
Most Liked Positive Review
Panasonic HC-X900M HD
The Panasonic Segment:
I have only owned the X900M for 2 weeks, so at this point the unit is still going through my personal R&D however this will end up being...Read complete review
The Panasonic Segment:
I have only owned the X900M for 2 weeks, so at this point the unit is still going through my personal R&D however this will end up being used in a prosumer role. I am quite happy at this time. The range from macro to zoom is fantastic and detail can be determined by the user. Manual functioning can be taken over quite simply with a single button hit. The OIS is very nice. Low light sensitivity is good and I have yet to try the Color Night setting. The 5.1 surround sound and ability to set audio focus is also nice in large gatherings. The external connectivity is nice.
At 1st glance, the price seemed a bit high for a unit wich hasn't changed much over previous versions, but the built-in 32GB storage offsets the cost a bit since this can be used out of the box once charged. There is also an expansion slot for yet more storage or an EyeFi card. USB transfer seems quick.
Cons:
I would like to have seen some high-speed capture (as compared to JVC's flagship) maybe not as high-speed as some, but more than the 60 frame burst. A slightly higher capacity battery would be nice as well for the overall package price.
B&H segment:
This is not my 1st dealing with B&H. I have bought a range of products from B&H and now this camcorder and have never been sorry with my choice. Their service has alsways been perfect in my dealings with them. I even waited until after the passover holiday store closure while I could have gone with a competitor based on price alone. Their free shipping was every bit as timely as an expedited delivery (2 days, order to sign-off acceptance)-- it was NOT "you might see it in 2 weeks because its free".
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Best, Better, or Only OK
I owned three of these Panny 3-chip CMOS cameras, two TM700's and a TM900. Covering events, my partner & I mobile around with a couple of Sony Ex3's but also ...Read complete review
I owned three of these Panny 3-chip CMOS cameras, two TM700's and a TM900. Covering events, my partner & I mobile around with a couple of Sony Ex3's but also used the three small Panny's for still cam views and trick shots. Happy with them I bought another, the X900M at a good price.
This camera does not compare to either of them in my opinion. Here's why. The TM700 seemed a fluke with tremendous battery life, external battery charging, unbelievable steady shot ability and good color/low noise. The TM900 has slightly better color and low light capability but was a step back, with poorer controls, an on camera charger and a very short battery life. The 1250 mA/h batteries only last about 6 months with daily use. On camera charging slowly ruins the battery so buy an external charger. The X900 continues this tradition, but now limits your ability to make long continuous recordings. All of these cameras still suffer from an over anxious Auto-White Balance issue, causing the balance to change mid shooting - the cameras most serious flaw. Use manual settings.
This camera is OK if you don't use it everyday, which is 90% of you. It takes very nice stills for a 3-CMOS, 1/4" chip cam (but nowhere close to a DSLR yet). I implore all users to use manual settings to get the MOST from this camera. AUTO settings will cheat you out of pro-looking shots. Explore this cam. Try the night setting - it has a variable frame rate shutter. GREAT for the HOLIDAYS. It has a lot of features for the price point. Most of you will be happy.
One suggestion: Invest in an on-board microphone (RODE Video-mic Pro is BEST IMO) - You will NEVER use the cam wihout it again. The onboard 5.1 surround audio is way overated. And unless you play it through your 5.1 decoder or download the video/audio files into an NLE that will do 5.1 AND you render it 5.1, forget it! It works OK, but the sound is still not natural. Get an on-board mic. Trust me!
The X900M is OK for average use but DON'T buy if looking for a serious small cam. Panasonic is going backwards with these models in my opinion. Did you know you can't use these cams in a free-fall - read the manual.
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 77 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-20
Previous | Next »
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Panasonic 32GB HC-X900M 3D Ready Full HD Camcorder (Black):
First time I used it I had to look at the directions to figure out how to put the SD csrd in and how to record. I videoed an interview for my history class project and the librarial at school put it on DVD for me. I found that this unit has a great auto microphone level. The DVD was GRRREAT! I can't wait to see what can be done once I learn how to use it.I cannot give a 5 star because I have to use it more, but, I'm lovin' it so far.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Panasonic 32GB HC-X900M 3D Ready Full HD Camcorder (Black):
Great picture quality. Physical zoom button difficult to use. Wish there was another zoom button located some where on camera. Great price for quality picture.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Panasonic 32GB HC-X900M 3D Ready Full HD Camcorder (Black):
I need it for low light, and the auto adjustments work fast and great. I would like the zoom speed to be a little more controllable, but I can work with that. The picture dynamics make up for it.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Panasonic 32GB HC-X900M 3D Ready Full HD Camcorder (Black):
I was very impressed with the quality of video from this camcorder. The image stabilization works very well. I recorded a bit with it on and then off and could tell a big difference.
It's easy to start filming with the auto mode, but when you decide to venture over to manual you'll discover that you can easily control shutter, iris, and focus with the manual ring.
I also like the focus assist. When in manual mode and focusing, the object in focus will be outlined in blue.
I like the fact that this camera accepts lens filters and optional add on lenses, such as tele, wide, and the 3D lens attachment.
I wish the viewfinder pulled out just a bit farther. I purchased the Pearstone VW-VBN390 Lithium-Ion Battery Pack, but with this larger battery it's a bit difficult getting your eye up to the viewfinder.
It would have been nice if the remote worked while standing behind the camera, instead of just in front of it.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Panasonic 32GB HC-X900M 3D Ready Full HD Camcorder (Black):
...and are thinking of replacing a tape-based HD video camera, read on.
Note: this model has been replaced by one with WiFi and improved sensors, so consider that when reading the following review.
Because I shoot nature subjects and don't want to lug two cameras, I bought this for its still as well as video capabilities. Compared to the Canon HD HV20 it replaces, the Panasonic records superior video and slightly superior still images. Compared to the Canon, still images taken by the HC-X900M have:
Increased angular resolution
Less color noise (but luminance noise)
Mostly better color accuracy (depending on subject)
Shorter depth of field at default settings
Less chromatic aberration
Fewer sharpening artifacts at contrast boundaries
The Panasonic is slower to autofocus than the Canon. The Panasonic's controls are a mixed bag. Manual options are good but, as noted elsewhere, the touch screen is not sensitive and might be more accurately described as a jab-and-jab again screen. A more sensitive and multi-touch upgrade would be nice.
The Panasonic's cooling fan is less intrusive than the tape drive motor in the Canon, but it's definitely audible in quiet settings. Let's hope Panasonic reduces power use and is able to ditch the fan.
The Panasonic's electronic viewfinder is higher-resolution than the Canon's, but subtends a smaller viewing angle, so it appears sharper but farther away: not conclusively superior.
The Panasonic's auto-on feature when pulling out the viewfinder or flipping open the side display is very convenient. One thing I miss is the Canon's backlight compensation button; you have to traverse the Panasonic's menus for the same feature. Also, if there's a way to control the menus from the viewfinder I haven't found it.
Overall, the Panasonic is an improvement over the six-year-old Canon, but the improvement is evolutionary and incremental rather than night-and-day.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Panasonic 32GB HC-X900M 3D Ready Full HD Camcorder (Black):
As most people do, I did a lot of research, and it came down to the HC-X900M. It is easy to hold and film with, and the viewfinder is excellent. The battery is rather small, so I bought the extended version, which will give you almost 3 hours. The capture is very easy. You can chose to film on an SD card, or the HD. You also have the option of copying from one to the other. This cam is all about the video, the 1080 video, and it does not disappoint. Great little camera, and when you consider that the Canon G10 is quite a bit more expensive, the HC-X900M is a great buy. If there is one thing to criticize, it's the lame brain software that comes with it. I am having a devil of a time with it, but the camera is a gem.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Panasonic 32GB HC-X900M 3D Ready Full HD Camcorder (Black):
I use the camcorder for family recordings, am very satisfied with outdoor, indoor and low light performance so far.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Panasonic 32GB HC-X900M 3D Ready Full HD Camcorder (Black):
I used it for nature and wildlife videography. The camcoder work great with 12x or 23 x zoom in some distance shotting. Also working great with manual control. The digital zoom 30 x and 700 x not so great. Also the CD HD writer. The rest is great.Love it.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Panasonic 32GB HC-X900M 3D Ready Full HD Camcorder (Black):
Recording in AVCHD2, 60P 1080, incredibly sharp video. Using it for vacation videos.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Panasonic 32GB HC-X900M 3D Ready Full HD Camcorder (Black):
After reading all the reviews and an independent recommondation from a professional videographer I purchased the HC-X900. It does everthing I wanted and it does it well and with an incredibly sharp lens. So, I'm happy and would recommend it. B&H, like always ships fast with never a problem.
Brian
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Comments about Panasonic 32GB HC-X900M 3D Ready Full HD Camcorder (Black):
I have done a month of research before purchasing this particular model. In my opinion, it offers by far the best HD video performance for the price. Like every other cam out there it has pluses and minuses, but on the balance this is an outstanding piece of equipment you will not regret buying.
Pros:
--Great optics & stabilization;
--Outstandingly sharp video quality;
--Nice clean stills;
--Very good in low light;
--Viewfinder is super useful in bright conditions, more discreet than flipping LCD in crowded places;
--Manual control ring;
--Easy intuitive controls;
--High res LCD;
--Lots of bells and whistles in manual mode;
--Light and comparatively compact (i.e. vs vixia g10 an sony pj710);
--Robust non-glossy professional looking build;
Cons:
--Quirky video-stills-play switch;
--Rather loose LCD screen;
--Flimsy hand-strap attachment;
--Wind cancellation not as good as Sony's;
--White balance tend to drift a bit in auto mode;
--Tinny speaker sound;
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Comments about Panasonic 32GB HC-X900M 3D Ready Full HD Camcorder (Black):
This is a nice lightweight camera that simply takes wonderful video, low light and other conditions. I am really going to enjoy it!
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Comments about Panasonic 32GB HC-X900M 3D Ready Full HD Camcorder (Black):
We bought this to make videos for the company website, and it is working beautifully for this.
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Comments about Panasonic 32GB HC-X900M 3D Ready Full HD Camcorder (Black):
Just started using the camera but like it so far. The only problem I have is the viewfinder is quite small. I needed a camera with a viewfinder since I plan to photograph wildlife and need to remain undetected. Otherwise, the camera is loaded with features I like. I just hope I can download and edit my video.
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Comments about Panasonic 32GB HC-X900M 3D Ready Full HD Camcorder (Black):
I have had this camcorder for about two months. After trying several other brands and being disappointed with the quality.I read several reviews and decided the hcx900m was worth a look. This thing is incredible.An excellent camcorder that offers a lot of control on how you creative you want to be.The manual is a must read to discover this camcorders capabilities.
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Comments about Panasonic 32GB HC-X900M 3D Ready Full HD Camcorder (Black):
I use this camera to shot interviews with medical professionals. Purchased it after doing lot of research on many industry models. The colors of the HC-X900 are excellent and most natural in manual mood. 100% satisfied with the video quality of this product.
I use external audio recording gear to capture the audio as I can not expect this consumer level cameras built- in mic pre-amp to be the best.
I'm also surprised with the service provided by B&H. I live across the Indian Ocean and the product arrived in 72 hours. UPS took care of all custom clearances as well.
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Comments about Panasonic 32GB HC-X900M 3D Ready Full HD Camcorder (Black):
The detail and color reproduction of the video is very precise. It has more features than I anticipated which requires some study of the manual. I'm not used to having so many manual capablities in a camcorder at this price. The only thing it lacked was an HDMI cable, but fortunately I had one that fit. Although I will just use it for personal use, it certainly seems capable of making documentaries.
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Comments about Panasonic 32GB HC-X900M 3D Ready Full HD Camcorder (Black):
I purchased this camcorder from B&H when it first arrived. And, I must say it surpassed my expectations. At first I was using the camcorder in automatic mode which was fine. I later tried the manual mode and was blown away by the color it produces. I film little league football games as a hobby and convert it to blue ray. When the parents saw some of the videos at 1080 60p, they could not believe the footage. The parents no longer wanted copies of the videos filmed by the original hired videographer they all wanted the hc x900 footage. I recommend getting a hood, external mic, extra battery, and tripod for outstanding results. B&H delivery service was excellent. In closing, I have been hired to film the little league football league.
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Comments about Panasonic 32GB HC-X900M 3D Ready Full HD Camcorder (Black):
I used this over the weekend at a duck hunt. The remote does not like distance. Sometimes it would work at 50 yards and other times it would not work at 5 yards. All in all a nice camera. Also a lot of wind noise feedback.
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Comments about Panasonic 32GB HC-X900M 3D Ready Full HD Camcorder (Black):
Got this camera on sale at Christmas, GREAT value. Fun yet full of useful features. Like the manual ring around the lense for adjusting 4 important features. Only concern is it does get warm. (There is a label by the battery mounting area that states this is normal). There is a very small fan, maybe 1/2", (that you cannot hear) that is visable when the LCD screen is swung open. Have not used the battery supply yet. Mainly used to film entire basketball games for high school coaches with AC cord. This camera looks and feels like a great prosumer piece of equipment.