Name: Panasonic HX-A1
Brand: Panasonic

Technical Specifications of Panasonic HX-A1

Overall score

4.6

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Popularity

What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the action camera.

When it matters: When you want to see which action cameras attract the most buyer attention and review activity.

Video

2.5

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Video resolution

What it is: The listed recording format states maximum capture resolution and frame rate.

When it matters: When video quality matters for your footage.

Importance: HIGH

Maximum 4K frame rate

What it is: Indicates the highest frame rate available when recording at 4K resolution.

When it matters: When you want detailed footage and still need enough frame rate for action or mild slow motion.

Importance: HIGH

Maximum 1080p frame rate

What it is: Indicates the highest frame rate available when recording at 1080p resolution.

When it matters: When you want smoother slow motion or fast-action playback while staying at 1080p resolution.

Importance: MEDIUM

Video bitrate

What it is: The amount of video data recorded per second, which affects file size and potential recording quality.

When it matters: When you compare potential video quality and want fewer compression artifacts in demanding scenes.

Importance: HIGH

Video codecs

What it is: The video compression formats the camera can use when recording, affecting compatibility, efficiency, and workflow.

When it matters: When compatibility, editing performance, and file efficiency matter in the way you handle video.

Importance: LOW

Photo

5.6

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Main camera megapixels

What it is: The resolution of the primary rear camera sensor, measured in millions of pixels (MP). Higher megapixels can capture more detail.

When it matters: When you want to capture high-resolution images that can be cropped or printed large.

Importance: HIGH

Sensor size

What it is: The sensor format value describes the physical light-collecting area.

When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

Importance: HIGH

Main camera aperture

What it is: The size of the lens opening (f-stop) that controls light entry. A lower f-number indicates a wider aperture, allowing better low-light shots.

When it matters: When you want better low-light performance or a natural background blur effect.

Importance: HIGH

Photo resolution

What it is: The maximum resolution of still photos captured by the camera, measured in megapixels.

When it matters: When you want more detail for cropping, large displays, or prints; higher photo resolution provides more pixels when image quality is otherwise comparable.

Importance: LOW

Field of view

What it is: The field-of-view angle shows how wide the camera can capture in one frame.

When it matters: When you want a wider or tighter look from the camera.

Importance: MEDIUM

Display & Design

6.5

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Built-in display

What it is: Whether the action camera has its own built-in screen for framing, playback, or settings.

When it matters: When you want to frame shots, review clips, or change settings directly on the camera.

Importance: LOW

Screen size

What it is: The physical diagonal measurement of the display area, usually expressed in inches.

When it matters: When you want a bigger on-camera screen for framing, playback, or reading menus more easily.

Importance: MEDIUM

Touchscreen

What it is: Indicates that the display acts as an input device, recognizing touch gestures.

When it matters: When you interact with your device using intuitive taps and gestures.

Importance: LOW

Secondary screen

What it is: Indicates whether the camera includes an additional display separate from the main screen.

When it matters: When you vlog, frame yourself often, or need status info visible without rotating the camera.

Importance: LOW

Secondary screen resolution

What it is: States the pixel resolution of the additional display used for status information or framing.

When it matters: When you depend on the front or extra display for framing and want a clearer preview.

Importance: LOW

N/A

Connectivity & Audio

5.7

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Wi-Fi connectivity

What it is: The ability to connect to wireless local area networks for internet access and local networking.

When it matters: When you want to save mobile data and connect to home or public networks.

Importance: LOW

Wi-Fi version

What it is: The specific generation of Wi-Fi standards supported (e.g., Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi 7), determining maximum speed and efficiency.

When it matters: When you have a high-speed router and want faster downloads with less congestion.

Importance: LOW

Bluetooth version

What it is: The Bluetooth version the action camera supports for wireless accessories and companion-device pairing.

When it matters: When you want to pair the camera with wireless accessories or a companion device reliably.

Importance: LOW

N/A

GPS

What it is: Support for the Global Positioning System to determine the device's precise location.

When it matters: When you need accurate navigation for driving, walking, or exploring new places.

Importance: LOW

USB Type-C

What it is: A modern, reversible connector used for charging, data transfer, and sometimes audio or video output.

When it matters: When you want a reversible cable that handles charging, data, and accessories universally.

Importance: LOW

Battery

2.2

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Battery life

What it is: The typical endurance the watch can deliver on a full charge under the stated usage pattern.

When it matters: When you do not want to charge the watch too often.

Importance: HIGH

Battery power

What it is: The battery capacity, usually measured in milliampere-hours (mAh).

When it matters: When you do not want to charge the watch too often.

Importance: MEDIUM

Charging time

What it is: The time the battery needs to recharge fully under supported conditions.

When it matters: When you want shorter breaks between charges.

Importance: MEDIUM

Fast charging

What it is: Whether the camera supports faster-than-standard charging to reduce downtime between shoots.

When it matters: When you need to recharge quickly between shooting sessions, travel stops, or battery swaps.

Importance: LOW

Wireless charging

What it is: Whether the camera itself can charge wirelessly on a compatible charging surface or dock.

When it matters: When you want to top up the camera without plugging in a cable every time.

Importance: LOW

Ruggedness & Storage

4.6

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Waterproof depth

What it is: The maximum depth of water the device is certified to withstand for a specific duration.

When it matters: When you film while swimming, snorkeling, or in heavy water exposure and need to know the camera's native underwater limit.

Importance: HIGH

IP rating

What it is: A standardized protection code that shows how well the action camera resists dust and water ingress.

When it matters: When you shoot in rain, snow, dust, or around water and want to know how well the camera is sealed.

Importance: MEDIUM

Maximum operating temperature

What it is: The highest ambient temperature at which the watch is rated to operate normally.

When it matters: When you use the watch in heat, cold, or at high altitude.

Importance: LOW

Minimum operating temperature

What it is: The lowest ambient temperature at which the watch is rated to operate normally.

When it matters: When you use the watch in heat, cold, or at high altitude.

Importance: LOW

External memory slot

What it is: A slot for expandable storage such as a memory card, if the watch provides one.

When it matters: When you want more room for apps, music, or offline data.

Importance: LOW

Panasonic HX-A1 vs the average action camera

Why is Panasonic HX-A1 better than the average action camera?

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Better IP rating
Panasonic HX-A1 has a higher IP rating than the average action camera (IP68 vs IPX4). The average action camera has an IP rating of IPX4.
What it is: A standardized protection code that shows how well the action camera resists dust and water ingress.
When it matters: When you shoot in rain, snow, dust, or around water and want to know how well the camera is sealed.
Importance: MEDIUM
Panasonic HX-A1 has a higher IP rating than the average action camera (IP68 vs IPX4). The average action camera has an IP rating of IPX4.IP68 vs IPX4
60.5% lighter
Panasonic HX-A1 is lighter than the average action camera (45 g vs 114 g). The average action camera weighs 114 g.
What it is: The total weight of the action camera body as carried or mounted in normal use.
When it matters: When you mount the camera on a helmet, chest rig, bike, or selfie stick and want to keep the setup light.
Importance: LOW
Panasonic HX-A1 is lighter than the average action camera (45 g vs 114 g). The average action camera weighs 114 g.45 g vs 114 g
34 mm narrower
Panasonic HX-A1 is narrower than the average action camera (26 mm vs 60 mm). The average action camera has a width of 60 mm.
What it is: The horizontal dimension of the device when held in portrait orientation.
When it matters: When you want the camera body to fit better in mounts, pockets, or tight spaces.
Importance: LOW
Panasonic HX-A1 is narrower than the average action camera (26 mm vs 60 mm). The average action camera has a width of 60 mm.26 mm vs 60 mm
19 mm shorter
Panasonic HX-A1 is shorter than the average action camera (26 mm vs 45 mm). The average action camera has a height of 45 mm.
What it is: The vertical size of the action camera body.
When it matters: When you want the camera body to fit better in mounts, cases, or compact carry setups.
Importance: LOW
Panasonic HX-A1 is shorter than the average action camera (26 mm vs 45 mm). The average action camera has a height of 45 mm.26 mm vs 45 mm
60.5% lighter
Panasonic HX-A1 is lighter than the average action camera (45 g vs 114 g). The average action camera weighs 114 g.
34 mm narrower
Panasonic HX-A1 is narrower than the average action camera (26 mm vs 60 mm). The average action camera has a width of 60 mm.
19 mm shorter
Panasonic HX-A1 is shorter than the average action camera (26 mm vs 45 mm). The average action camera has a height of 45 mm.
Better IP rating
Panasonic HX-A1 has a higher IP rating than the average action camera (IP68 vs IPX4). The average action camera has an IP rating of IPX4.

Total

Display & Design

Ruggedness & Storage

Why is Panasonic HX-A1 worse than the average action camera?

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Lower video resolution
Panasonic HX-A1 records at 1080p, a lower video resolution than the average action camera (5.3K).
No electronic stabilization
Panasonic HX-A1 does not support electronic stabilization, the average action camera does. 64.7% of action cameras support electronic image stabilization.
30 fps lower 4K frame rate
Panasonic HX-A1 has a lower 4K frame rate than the average action camera (0 fps vs 30 fps). The average action camera reaches 30 fps at 4K.
75% lower video bitrate
Panasonic HX-A1 has a lower video bitrate than the average action camera (15 Mbps vs 60 Mbps). The average action camera has a video bitrate of 60 Mbps.
30 fps lower 1080p frame rate
Panasonic HX-A1 has a lower 1080p frame rate than the average action camera (30 fps vs 60 fps). The average action camera reaches 60 fps at 1080p.
Lower sensor size
Panasonic HX-A1 has sensor size of 1/3", lower than the average action camera (1/2.3").
2 MP lower photo resolution
Panasonic HX-A1 has a lower photo resolution than the average action camera (2.7 MP vs 12 MP). The average action camera captures 12 MP photos.
No manual ISO control
Panasonic HX-A1 does not allow manual ISO control, the average action camera does. 84% of action cameras include this feature.
29.93 s shorter exposure time
Panasonic HX-A1 has a lower maximum exposure time than the average action camera (0.1 s vs 30 s). The average action camera supports a maximum exposure time of 30 s.
No touchscreen
Panasonic HX-A1 does not have a touchscreen, the average action camera does. 62.5% of action cameras support touchscreen input.
3 older release date
Panasonic HX-A1 is older than the average action camera (2015 vs 2018). The average action camera was released in 2018.
Released in April 2015.
No remote control support
Panasonic HX-A1 offers weaker remote control support than the average action camera (no vs accessory).
Only smartphone app control, no dedicated remote.
1 fewer microphones
Panasonic HX-A1 has fewer microphones than the average action camera (1 vs 2). The average action camera has 2 microphones.
720 mAh less battery capacity
Panasonic HX-A1 has a lower battery capacity than the average action camera (480 mAh vs 1200 mAh). The average action camera has a battery capacity of 1200 mAh.
1 h longer charging time
Panasonic HX-A1 has a higher charging time than the average action camera (3 h vs 2 h). The average action camera takes 2 h to charge.
No removable battery
Panasonic HX-A1 does not have a removable battery, while the average action camera does.
20 min shorter battery life
Panasonic HX-A1 has shorter battery life than the average action camera (70 min vs 90 min). The average action camera offers 90 min of battery life.
Lower video resolution
Panasonic HX-A1 records at 1080p, a lower video resolution than the average action camera (5.3K).
What it is: The listed recording format states maximum capture resolution and frame rate.
When it matters: When video quality matters for your footage.
Importance: HIGH
Panasonic HX-A1 records at 1080p, a lower video resolution than the average action camera (5.3K).1080p vs 5.3K
No electronic stabilization
Panasonic HX-A1 does not support electronic stabilization, the average action camera does. 64.7% of action cameras support electronic image stabilization.
What it is: Shows whether the camera uses digital motion correction to make handheld video look steadier.
When it matters: When you shoot handheld, mounted, or in motion and want smoother footage without external gear.
Importance: HIGH
Panasonic HX-A1 does not support electronic stabilization, the average action camera does. 64.7% of action cameras support electronic image stabilization.
30 fps lower 4K frame rate
Panasonic HX-A1 has a lower 4K frame rate than the average action camera (0 fps vs 30 fps). The average action camera reaches 30 fps at 4K.
What it is: Indicates the highest frame rate available when recording at 4K resolution.
When it matters: When you want detailed footage and still need enough frame rate for action or mild slow motion.
Importance: HIGH
Panasonic HX-A1 has a lower 4K frame rate than the average action camera (0 fps vs 30 fps). The average action camera reaches 30 fps at 4K.0 fps vs 30 fps
Lower sensor size
Panasonic HX-A1 has sensor size of 1/3", lower than the average action camera (1/2.3").
What it is: The sensor format value describes the physical light-collecting area.
When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.
Importance: HIGH
Panasonic HX-A1 has sensor size of 1/3", lower than the average action camera (1/2.3").1/3" vs 1/2.3"
75% lower video bitrate
Panasonic HX-A1 has a lower video bitrate than the average action camera (15 Mbps vs 60 Mbps). The average action camera has a video bitrate of 60 Mbps.
What it is: The amount of video data recorded per second, which affects file size and potential recording quality.
When it matters: When you compare potential video quality and want fewer compression artifacts in demanding scenes.
Importance: HIGH
Panasonic HX-A1 has a lower video bitrate than the average action camera (15 Mbps vs 60 Mbps). The average action camera has a video bitrate of 60 Mbps.15 Mbps vs 60 Mbps
720 mAh less battery capacity
Panasonic HX-A1 has a lower battery capacity than the average action camera (480 mAh vs 1200 mAh). The average action camera has a battery capacity of 1200 mAh.
What it is: The battery capacity, usually measured in milliampere-hours (mAh).
When it matters: When you do not want to charge the watch too often.
Importance: MEDIUM
Panasonic HX-A1 has a lower battery capacity than the average action camera (480 mAh vs 1200 mAh). The average action camera has a battery capacity of 1200 mAh.480 mAh vs 1200 mAh
No touchscreen
Panasonic HX-A1 does not have a touchscreen, the average action camera does. 62.5% of action cameras support touchscreen input.
What it is: Indicates that the display acts as an input device, recognizing touch gestures.
When it matters: When you interact with your device using intuitive taps and gestures.
Importance: LOW
Panasonic HX-A1 does not have a touchscreen, the average action camera does. 62.5% of action cameras support touchscreen input.
1 h longer charging time
Panasonic HX-A1 has a higher charging time than the average action camera (3 h vs 2 h). The average action camera takes 2 h to charge.
What it is: The time the battery needs to recharge fully under supported conditions.
When it matters: When you want shorter breaks between charges.
Importance: MEDIUM
Panasonic HX-A1 has a higher charging time than the average action camera (3 h vs 2 h). The average action camera takes 2 h to charge.3 h vs 2 h

Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

United States

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

What customers like about Panasonic HX-A1?

Extremely compact and lightweight 45 g cylindrical design
Waterproof, shockproof, dustproof and freezeproof construction
Unique infrared 0 Lux Night Mode
Built-in Wi-Fi for smartphone control
Full HD 1080p recording and flexible mounting options

What customers dislike about Panasonic HX-A1?

Short internal battery life and slow recharging
No built-in image stabilization
No integrated display
Still-photo resolution is low
Full HD is limited to 30 fps

Expert reviews

cnet.com

02/09/2015

Summary of the review

Panasonic HX-A1Go to product viewer dialogue for this item. review: An action cam that sees in the dark

The Panasonic HX-A1 is a lightweight, ultra-compact cylindrical action camera priced at $199.99 that stands out for its unique, out-of-the-box 0 lux night-vision capability when paired with an included infrared lens and a separate infrared torch. Weighing just 45 grams, this rugged device features an IP68 rating, making it completely dustproof, freeze-proof to -10°C, and waterproof and shockproof up to 1.5 metres. It captures standard 1080p full-HD video at 29.97 fps with adjustable field-of-view settings of 120 or 150 degrees. Because it lacks a built-in screen, users must rely on simple top-panel physical buttons or connect via Wi-Fi to the Panasonic Image App on Android or iOS to modify advanced settings like resolution and frame rates. However, the camera suffers from notable performance and design drawbacks. A major downside is its video quality; a low 15Mbps recording bit rate leads to highly visible block compression artifacts, particularly in red tones, and edges appear fuzzy. Its 2.66-megapixel sensor also delivers low-resolution stills, limiting cropping options compared to competitors. From a design standpoint, the fully cylindrical body easily rolls around when placed...

me.pcmag.com

14/08/2016

Panasonic HX-A1M - Review 2016

The Panasonic HX-A1M is an ultra-compact, feather-light action camera designed for extreme sports and outdoor activities. Weighing only 45 grams and measuring 8.3 centimeters in length, this cylindrical aluminum device is highly durable and capable of filming crisp 1080p full HD videos at 30 frames per second. It stands out for its ruggedness, boasting an IPX8 waterproof rating down to 1.5 meters without a protective case, MIL-STD810F shock resistance up to 1.5 meters, IP6X dustproofing, and the ability to freeze-proof operate down to -10°C. It introduces wireless capabilities over its predecessor, requiring Panasonic’s Image App on Android or iOS for live view, remote control, and settings adjustments. The review highlights several distinct pros and cons for prospective buyers. On the positive side, its main pros include its super-lightweight design, an affordable street price of AED 275.00, a unique night-vision feature for shooting in total darkness, and an included adapter making it compatible with GoPro mounts. Conversely, its primary cons are its low battery life and average image quality, as fine details tend to be missing from the footage. Additionally, it...

utvactionmag.com

24/02/2016

PRODUCT: Panasonic HX-A1 HD Video Camera

The Panasonic HX-A1 is a lightweight, 1.6-ounce cylindrical POV camera available for under $200, offering exceptional image sharpness, durable construction, and stable footage during high-speed off-road use. The package includes versatile mounts, an infrared lens, and provides excellent color saturation, with performance noted for absorbing heavy vehicle vibrations. Key cons involve the microphone picking up significant wind noise at high speeds and design flaws where the mounting strap obscures the rear power button. However, the review notes that the accompanying smartphone app effectively bypasses these physical button issues, making it an easy-to-use, rugged option.

trustedreviews.com

10/09/2015

Panasonic HX-A1ME Review

The Trusted Reviews evaluation highlights the Panasonic HX-A1ME as an ultra-lightweight (45g), durable, and versatile action camera featuring a 0 Lux Night Mode and integrated Wi-Fi for smartphone control. While praised for its rugged, weatherproof design and unique, compact cylindrical form factor, the review notes significant limitations, including 1080p maximum resolution, lack of image stabilization, and a short 35–45 minute battery life.

futurezone.at

14/10/2015

Panasonic HX-A1M im Test: Federleichtes FullHD-Adlerauge

The Panasonic HX-A1M is a lightweight, flashlight-shaped full HD action camera designed for simple outdoor recording. Weighing just 45 grams, this compact cylindrical device is highly portable, shockproof up to 1.5 meters, waterproof down to 1.5 meters, and frost-resistant down to -10 degrees Celsius. It features a 3.54-megapixel MOS sensor that records video up to 1080p at 30 fps, along with slow-motion capabilities in lower resolutions. The camera relies on a straightforward three-button interface with five LEDs for easy operation, uses a microSD slot for storage, and provides approximately 70 minutes of continuous battery life. Additionally, it offers built-in Wi-Fi functionality that connects to Panasonic’s Image App for live viewfinder viewing and setting adjustments. A major advantage of the HX-A1M is its versatile mounting system; the included "Multi-Mount" features a flexible ball head and velcro strap that allows users to easily attach the camera to bike handlebars, wrists, or sports nets. It also delivers excellent picture quality with smooth light-to-dark transitions and includes a unique night vision mode when paired with a special night lens and an external infrared light....

krone.at

11/10/2015

Panasonic HX-A1M: Actioncam-Leichtgewicht im Test | krone.at

The Panasonic HX-A1M is an ultra-lightweight, 45-gram action camera that eliminates the cumbersome cable design of its predecessor, the HX-A500. It is highly durable, featuring shockproof and waterproof capabilities up to 1.5 metres, alongside frost resistance down to minus 10 degrees Celsius without requiring an external housing. While it shoots sharp images with vibrant colours, it maxes out at Full-HD resolution at 30 frames per second rather than 4K. Additional notable features include a night vision mode when paired with an infrared light source, a dedicated slow-motion mode, and a simple three-button layout for straightforward operation. The primary advantages of the HX-A1M are its affordable price of around €200, its extreme compactness, and its versatile mounting capabilities. However, these benefits come with significant trade-offs, most notably the complete absence of a built-in display, which forces users to rely on a smartphone connection via Wi-Fi to adjust settings or check the framing. Furthermore, its short battery life of up to 100 minutes limits prolonged use, wide-angle lens distortion causes minor image warping, and its cylindrical shape makes it easy to accidentally...

macitynet.it

05/09/2015

Recensione Panasonic HX-A1M, l'action camera diventa semplice (con qualche limite)

The Panasonic HX-A1M is a compact, cylindrical action camera designed as a simplified, more budget-friendly alternative to the brand's premium HX-A500 model. Measuring just 8 centimetres in length, it eliminates the cumbersome cables and arm-mounted remotes of its predecessor, packing its three physical control buttons directly onto its highly portable, lightweight body. The camera ditches an integrated display screen, relying instead on a Wi-Fi connection to the Panasonic Image App for framing shots and configuring settings. It records video at 1080p at 30 fps or 720p at 60 fps, delivers around two hours of continuous battery life, and supports a unique stackable 720 mAh emergency battery that threads directly onto the device to double recording times. The review highlights several prominent advantages and disadvantages of this wearable device. On the positive side, the HX-A1M is praised for being exceptionally lightweight, highly waterproof, and incredibly easy to operate right out of the box. A standout pro is its interchangeable infrared (IR) lens filter, which enables superior video capture in low-light and near-dark conditions—a feature rarely seen in competing models. However, the...

Panasonic HX-A1 Review | 96 Data compared

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Technical Specifications of Panasonic HX-A1

Panasonic HX-A1 vs the average action camera

Why is Panasonic HX-A1 better than the average action camera?

Why is Panasonic HX-A1 worse than the average action camera?

Graphic comparison of Panasonic HX-A1 and

Third-party reviews

What customers like about Panasonic HX-A1?

What customers dislike about Panasonic HX-A1?

Expert reviews

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