Panasonic HC-VX981K 4K Camcorder
- 4K Ultra HD video, down-sampling to 1080p in camera
- 20x optical zoom Leica Dicomar lens, 60x digital
- 1/2.3-inch BSI sensor
- 5-axis Hybrid O.I.S.+ with Active Mode and Level Shot
- F2.8 maximum aperture
- 3-inch screen
- 12.32 oz body, 5.5 x 2.6 x 2.9 inches
- Wi-Fi smartphone control and multi-scene capture
Updated 25 days ago · Based on the Amazon listing and published specifications, not hands-on testing.
A capable ultra HD camcorder for family events and school sports thanks to its long stabilized zoom; the small sensor limits detail in dim rooms, and the body is not weather sealed.
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ASIN: B01A60SYREModel: HC-VX981KCategory: Camcorders
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Overview
Panasonic aims this compact camcorder at families and creators who want ultra HD footage without a complicated workflow. A Leica Dicomar zoom lens and hybrid optical stabilization handle framing, while in-camera tools crop, pan and track subjects after recording.
Long optical reach with multi-axis stabilization makes handheld zoom footage usable at recitals and games. Wi-Fi turns a smartphone into a remote viewfinder or a second camera for picture-in-picture clips. The sensor is small, so dark rooms show more noise than daylight scenes.
Who it's for
Suits school events, travel and backyard sports where long zoom matters more than shallow focus. Vloggers working in dark venues or wet conditions should look at a different camera.
Pros and cons
- Long optical zoom for distant subjects
- Hybrid stabilization steadies handheld zoom shots
- HDR mode for bright and dark areas
- In-camera cropping, panning and tracking edits
- Small sensor limits dim-light detail
- Not water resistant
- No memory card in the box
- Strong Level Shot mode works in 2K only
Performance notes
Stability at full zoom rests on the hybrid optical image stabilization and its Active Mode. Exposure in mixed light benefits from the HDR mode, which records detail in highlights and shadows. The small sensor sets the limit indoors, where noise rises as light falls.
Specifications
| Brand | Panasonic |
|---|---|
| Model | HC-VX981K |
| Dimensions & fit | |
| Sensor size | 1/2.3-inch BSI |
| Item weight | 0.77 pounds |
| Minimum focal length | 0.2 inches |
| Item dimensions d x W x h | 5.5 × 2.6 × 2.9 inches |
| Power & efficiency | |
| Battery | 1 lithium ion, included |
| Construction & materials | |
| Color | Black |
| Max frame rate | 60 frames per second |
| Compatibility & installation | |
| Wireless | Wi-Fi, USB, Micro HDMI |
| Warranty & support | |
| Warranty description | 1 year |
| Supported image format | JPEG |
| Other details | |
| Video resolution | 4K |
| Optical zoom | 20x |
| Maximum aperture | F2.8 |
| Sensor type | CMOS |
| Water resistance level | Not Water Resistant |
| Screen | 3 inches |
| Memory card | SDXC, Speed Class C10, UHS 3, V60 |
| Effective still resolution | 7 MP |
| Image aspect ratio | 16:9 |
| Digital zoom | 60x |
| Lens | Leica Dicomar |
Frequently asked questions
Can the Panasonic HC-VX981K be used in the rain?
The listing rates it not water resistant, so it should stay dry and covered in wet weather.
Which memory cards suit the HC-VX981K for 4K recording?
It uses SDXC media, and the listing names speed classes C10, UHS 3 and V60.
Can HC-VX981K footage play on a TV that is not 4K?
Yes. The camcorder down-samples to 1080p for playback on Full HD displays.
What cables come with the Panasonic HC-VX981K?
The box lists an HDMI cable, a USB cable and a DC cable, along with a battery, an AC adaptor and editing software.