Sometimes, a moment is best captured with
motion. To do this, we need a camcorder. Lately, we have a look at Panasonic's
flagship camcorder, the HC-W850. Fitted with some of Panasonic's most advanced
technology, this camcorder promises nothing but the best video quality. Does it
deliver on this promise? We find out.
One of the first things you'll notice about
the W850 is that it has a secondary camera. This secondary camera can swivel
180 degrees and can be used to record a unique picture-in-picture video. The
secondary window will be able to record either the person behind the camera or
to his/her left.
Panasonic
HC-W850 front view
The
HC-W850 secondary camera
Apart from having a twin camera system, the
W850 also has a 4-drive lens system, which is usually found in high-end lens
systems. A 4-drive lens system essentially allows you to zoom further, without
sacrificing image quality. This is the first consumer-level camcorder to
feature this lens array, so it's rather exciting to see this feature in action.
The
W850 has a 4-drive lens system
Other notable features on the W850 include
an improved Wind Shield Zoom Microphone and both Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity.
Similar to previous flagship camcorders from Panasonic, the Wind Shield Zoom
Microphone records in 5.1-channel, so you're really getting good directional
sound when recorded content is played back on a home theater system.
In terms of the Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity,
the W850 functions like most devices equipped with the same technology. When
connected to a mobile device, you're able to remotely start recording or taking
snapshots. But that's not all; the W850 can also be used as a baby/ home
monitor. Simply connect this camcorder to your NAS, and you'd be able to
remotely access the camcorder when you're away from home. This functionality is
enhanced with the optional VW-CTR1 remote pan/tilt cradle, which is a cradle
that allows you to remotely pan and tilt the camera.
The
optional VW-CTR1 remote pan/tilt cradle allows you to use the W850 as a
home/baby monitor
Performance-wise, there's little to criticize
about this camcorder. It simply is a marvel to use, giving you great Full HD
recordings in Intelligent Auto mode. When the need to manual focus does arise
(especially in low-light areas), the integrated multi-function knob gives you
quick control over the focusing, making it incredibly easy to focus at night.
The additional night modes (infrared and color), further boosts this camera's
capabilities in capturing videos at night.
The
HC-W850 details
When it comes to image quality, this
camcorder is sharp. We used it to record stills and videos and in both
instances, image quality was crisp and sharp, with plenty of details. Speaking
of crisp and sharp videos, this camcorder comes with a 5-axis optical image
stabilization system, which is much like the one featured in Olympus' OM-D
E-M5. Needless to say, unwanted camera movement is greatly minimized with this
OIS system.
The
image quality of HC-W850 is sharp
Overall, we really like this camcorder and
have no qualms about recommending it to others. Equipped with some of the most
advanced video recording technology in the market today, the W850 is a
top-notch camcorder. Additional creative effects like Time Lapse recording and
8mm Movie further add to its charm.
|
Specifications
·
Zoom: 20x Optical Zoom, 50x Intelligent Zoom ·
Shutter speed: 60p, 60i, 1/30 to 1/8,000 with
Auto Slow Shutter On ·
Image stabilizer: Hybrid Optical Image
Stabilization ·
Recording Format: AVCHD progressive / MP4 ·
LCD Monitor: 3-inch touchscreen, 460,800 dots ·
Aperture: f/1.8 to f/3.6 ·
Storage: 1x SD card ·
Image sensor: 1/2.3-inch BSI MOS Sensor ·
Megapixels: 24 ·
Dimensions: 65 x 73 x 139 mm (W x H x D) ·
Weight (Body): approx. 360G
|
