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Panasonic HC-X1600 specifications and in-depth review

Panasonic HC-X1600

Manufacturer: Panasonic

The Panasonic HC-X1600 is a versatile camcorder designed for both professional and casual videography. Featuring a 3.5″ flip-out touchscreen, this model offers excellent portability and ease of use. With a compact build weighing just 850 g, it combines powerful features with user-friendly design.

Key specifications include an 8.29 MP main camera capable of shooting in 2160 x 60 fps, and a 24x optical zoom for flexible shooting options. The camcorder also supports slow-motion recording, manual focus, and has built-in optical image stabilization to ensure smooth footage. Additionally, it supports external memory and features a removable 5900 mAh rechargeable battery.

Pros
  • The 3.5″ flip-out touchscreen allows for flexible framing and easy control during filming.
  • The 24x optical zoom provides versatile shooting options, especially for distant subjects.
  • Built-in optical image stabilization helps ensure steady video footage, even during handheld shooting.
  • The removable 5900 mAh rechargeable battery offers extended recording time, which is useful for long shoots.
  • It supports live streaming with first-party integration, enabling easy online broadcasting.
Cons
  • The camcorder does not support Dolby Vision recording, limiting advanced HDR video capabilities.
  • There is no GPS functionality, which could be useful for geotagging video content.
  • It lacks a flash, which may be a limitation for low-light video shoots.
  • There is no NFC support, potentially limiting some quick connection options with other devices.
Who is this for?

The Panasonic HC-X1600 is ideal for professional videographers and content creators who require a removable battery with extended recording life, as well as 24x optical zoom for versatile shooting at various distances. Its live streaming support makes it a good choice for those looking to broadcast events or create content for online platforms. The built-in optical image stabilization is also beneficial for handheld shooting in dynamic environments, ensuring smooth video capture.

Who is this NOT for?

This camcorder may not be ideal for users who need advanced video recording features like Dolby Vision support or 3D recording, as it lacks these capabilities. Additionally, the absence of GPS functionality makes it less suitable for users who require geotagging or location-based features for their footage. The lack of a flash could also be a drawback for those who frequently shoot in low-light environments.

Design:

Has a display ✓
has a touch screen ✓
weight 850 g
screen size 3.5"
thickness 267 mm
height 93 mm
Has a flip-out screen ✓
volume 3203.199 cm³
width 129 mm
Has a dedicated bike mount ✕
has branded damage-resistant glass ✕
Has a built-in projector ✕
release date February 2025
screen resolution 2760k dots

The Panasonic HC-X1600 camcorder is designed with a 3.5″ flip-out touchscreen for easy viewing and control. It weighs 850 g and has compact dimensions, with a height of 93 mm, width of 129 mm, and a thickness of 267 mm. The screen resolution is 2760k dots, providing clear visuals, though it does not include a dedicated bike mount or Gorilla Glass for added durability. The device has a volume of 3203.199 cm³, offering a balance of portability and functionality.

Videography:

video recording (main camera) 2160 x 60 fps
supports slow-motion video recording ✓
has a 24p cinema mode ✓
supports Dolby Vision recording ✕
Has timelapse function ✓
has AF tracking ✓
shoots raw ✕
has 3D photo/video recording capabilities ✕

The Panasonic HC-X1600 is equipped for versatile videography with features like 2160 x 60 fps video recording for high-quality footage. It supports slow-motion video recording and has a 24p cinema mode for film-like video effects. Additionally, it includes a timelapse function and advanced AF tracking to ensure sharp, focused shots during dynamic shooting conditions. However, it does not support Dolby Vision, 3D recording, or shooting in raw format.

Optics:

megapixels (main camera) 8.29 MP
has built-in optical image stabilization ✓
has manual focus ✓
optical zoom 24x

The Panasonic HC-X1600 features an 8.29 MP main camera that delivers clear, high-quality images. It offers 24x optical zoom for flexible framing and detailed shots, while the built-in optical image stabilization ensures steady footage even in challenging conditions. Additionally, the camcorder supports manual focus, giving users full control over their shots for enhanced precision and creativity.

Audio:

has a microphone input ✓
has a stereo microphone ✓
has a socket for a 3.5 mm audio jack ✓
has stereo speakers ✓

The Panasonic HC-X1600 offers a comprehensive set of audio features, including a microphone input and a 3.5 mm headset jack for easy audio connectivity. It is equipped with a stereo microphone for clear sound capture and stereo speakers for playback, ensuring high-quality audio during recording and monitoring.

Battery:

has a removable battery ✓
battery power 5900 mAh
has an external memory slot ✓
has a battery level indicator ✓
has a rechargeable battery ✓

The Panasonic HC-X1600 is equipped with a removable 5900 mAh rechargeable battery for extended recording sessions. It also features a battery level indicator to keep track of power, and supports an external memory slot for additional storage, offering flexibility for long shoots and data management.

Connectivity & Features:

has GPS ✕
Is compatible with Android ✓
has an HDMI output ✓
supports Wi-Fi ✓
Wi-Fi version Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n)
has a remote control ✓
Is compatible with iOS ✓
has first-party support for live streaming ✓
has a flash ✕
has NFC ✕
Has USB Type-C ✓
has voice commands ✕
is DLNA-certified ✕

The Panasonic HC-X1600 offers extensive connectivity options, including HDMI output for seamless video playback, USB Type-C for fast data transfer, and first-party support for live streaming. It is compatible with both Android and iOS devices, allowing easy integration with various platforms. Additionally, it supports Wi-Fi (Wi-Fi 5 and Wi-Fi 4) for wireless connectivity and includes a remote control for added convenience.

Final Verdict

The Panasonic HC-X1600 is a robust camcorder designed for videographers seeking high-quality performance with a range of useful features. With its 24x optical zoom and optical image stabilization, it excels in versatile and steady video capture, making it well-suited for both professional video shoots and live streaming. While it lacks certain advanced features like Dolby Vision and GPS, it remains a solid option for content creators who prioritize reliable performance, flexible shooting options, and ease of use in various environments.