4K Video Camera - I replace my old still camera with a modern cam that does it ALL!

It's been quite an adventure.

I simply started looking up new cameras I might like, to replace my old Canon S95 (that I once loved) with a new little camera that could do it all..

Lately pro video producers and photographers are using DSLR cameras for hi-end video work, because they are very compact and have the best 4K sensors available. For many, this is a great trade-off because they can also take state of the art still pictures as well. The best of both worlds!

Knowing this, after talking to a few friends, I thought I'd look at cheaper cameras first, perhaps even more compact, that still produce 4K video (so I can really start enjoying my new 4K large screen TV). I thought by now, since 4K TVs have been around for a while, there must be plenty of 4K compact cameras on the market that are close to professional results, and so much easier to tote around on vacation, RIGHT!?

If only it were so, Batman..

Not really, is what I am finding. And it's all due to so many different situations, simultaneously found in the current market:

a) I ordered a couple of Lumix cameras, trying various offerings; they all went back to Amazon within 2 weeks each. 

b) Overheating while taking videos of graduation ceremony, time limits on video recording, and various other limitations I certainly never had with previous cameras, were really getting me down.

c) Some cameras were inexpensive but had horrible auto-focus and could not take a picture in focus; never happened on my old Canon!

d) Video cameras really need to have some kind of stabilization included, to be able to hand hold a video camera. Many still cameras do not provide this feature, or it does not work well.

All this above, and that's just for starters. That's just to clear the first hurdle such that they could even be considered. Oh yes, a few more:

e) Has to have 4K video capability - preferably without a limited timer on video length

f) Has to be able to connect to wifi and be remote controlled (if on a tripod, perhaps hidden from view even, for security).

g) Has to have a built-in flash

h) Has to have a zoom lense, and have wide angle capabilities too, including macro features

i) Needs to cost less than $1000, because I am always afraid I'll drop it, or grow to slowly hate it as I discover it's limitations, and take a bath when I sell it... so less money in, less risk of losing my shirt.

j) Must have a LARGE SENSOR (1" Sony) that will give very professional results

I'll keep this short for time being and boil it down a bit...

I finally focused on 3 cameras, for various reasons:

1) Sony RX100 - Small compact, large sensor; most obvious choice in this class, but it's expensive, at around $1000 + tax; overheats taking video

2) Lumix LX10 - A clear competitor to the RX100, it's a little bit bigger and heavier, but has many less problems with overheating

3) Lumix FZ1000 - a bridge camera, it does not have a removable lense, but is about the same size as a DSLR. Larger than ideal, but gives entirely professional results and does not require carrying more than 1 lense.

This week, after watching about 100 YT video reviews on these cameras, I had decided.

I purchased the last 2, the LX10 and FZ1000, assuming only 1 would be a keeper, and fully expecting to send 1 or both back to BBuy where I got them. But after many many hours of experimentation, I'm surprised to say, I expect to keep them both, for different reasons.

Of course, I only really need one camera, besides my smart phone, which is a Note 4 and is not slouch. But if I want a really professional looking result, the FZ1000 is it. It competes (@$600 used) as a very professional results camera that can easily match cameras that cost $4000 and more. But I won't want to carry it on many vacations; it will be more for special events, concerts, etc. It allows for better sound, since I can plug a good quality mic into it, and it allows for better flash if I need that too..

The LX10 on the other hand, is a true pocket cam. It will easily fit in a jacket pocket; it will never need a neck strap; it's wrist strap size. And still very hi quality results; it looks almost as good as the FZ1000, and is about the same price, at $600 used.

The LX10 has been called the ultimate vlogging camera, because it has a selfy style display that can flip up, and allow vloggers to tape themselves and easily monitor the framing at the same time. The FZ1000 is much more of a table top or tripod only camera.

Keep in mind both of these cameras allow easy remote control from a smart phone or iPad, etc. This allows real time monitoring, start stop, and settings adjustments without touching the camera.

They both have the limitation they can not be plugged into the wall and charge, while being used. I can live with that, just buy extra batteries.

Both have Leica lenses, and 1" Sony 20 Megapixel sensors, so they are kind of in the same class, in that respect.