Video Camera who uses one?
Posted: Sun Feb 06, 2011 10:02 pm
The First Part of this post has been added as a running compilation
------------------------------------
Bicycle Cameras
There are more and more cyclists wanting to use a video camera to record their commutes, in the event of an accident, they are able to rely on the footage to prove what took place.
There is a wide variety of cameras on the market, some as cheap as $10 and others costing $400 or more. This information only covers a few of the more popular cameras.
I have provided the following information about various cameras and an external battery to help you decide which is best for you. This is a guide only and the information is from my own experiences as well as from what other users have reported. You should always do your own research before buying any camera.
------------------------------------
Related information about cameras and mounts, can be found here:
Camera FAQ's Here >
Mounting FAQs - DIY and Third Party Mounts >
------------------------------------
This will be updated as I receive more information about the different cameras. I hope this information is a help to you.
------------------------------------
Cameras
------------------------------------
MD80
(I own and use this camera)
------------------------------------
Cost: $14 (approx)
Footage:
What’s Included:
1 X Mini DV Camera, 1 X Silicone cover, 1 X USB cable, 3 X Brackets, Manual
Details:
• Video Format: AVI
• Resolution: Support 30 fps for 720x480 and 320x240 IT IS NOT HD
• Lens: 80 degree (approx)
• Photo: NO
• Memory: Micro SD (up to 16gig)
• Battery Time: Approx 1hr
• Water Proof/Resistant: NO
• Number Plate readability: Yes as long as the car is directly behind or in front and close.
• Size: 55mm (L) x 20mm (W) x 20mm (H)
• Weight: 36g
Purchase from:
• Ebay Seller novelemart
• http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/ws/eBayISAPI" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false; ... OC:AU:1123
• Search Name: Mini DV Sports Video Camera Spy Cam MD80
This camera is very small and lightweight. It only has a recording time of 1 hour and is AVI, so it is not HD. If you are looking for a cheap alternative then this is as cheap as they get. If you are looking for a HD camera then keep reading.
------------------------------------
Jumbo HD 808
(I own and use this camera)
------------------------------------
Cost: $48 (approx)
Footage:
What’s Included:
1 x HD Car key camera, 1 x Car Charger, 1 x Car charger Cable Thin 2 meters long, 1 x USB cable, thicker and 1 meter long, 2 x Stick on Velcro Squares, 1 x User Manual
Details:
• Video Format: MOV H.264 compression
• Resolution: 720P High Definition Video 1280 x 720 H.264/AVC1 30fps .
• Photo: 5.0 Mega pixels Photo JPEG format: 2592 x1944.jpg
• Lens: 90 degree (approx)
• Memory: Micro SD (up to 32gig)
• Battery Time: Approx 1.5 hrs
• External Battery Pack: (Optional) YES Extra 2.5hrs
• Water Proof/Resistant: NO
• Number Plate readability: Yes very good
• Size: 65mm (L) x 34mm (W) x 18mm (H)
• Weight: 64g
Purchase from:
• Ebay Seller eletoponline365, extremely good service and fast shipping
• http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/ws/eBayISAPI" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false; ... OC:AU:1123
• Search Name: #11 Full 808HD Cam Car Key Camera DVR Driving Recorder
This is the best value camera at the moment. Used with the External Battery Pack, you will get approx 4hrs recording time, provided you use a large capacity memory card.
------------------------------------
Extreme Cam (Crocolis HD Extreme Cam)
(Reviews)
------------------------------------
Cost: $185 (approx)
Footage:
Coming Soon
What’s Included:
Camera, Battery, Helmet Grip, Velcro and 2 x 3 M Pad Handle Bar Grip, Base Bracket, AV Cable, USB Cable, Power Adapter, Short/Long Velcro Strap, HDMI Cable, Microphone, Suction Cup Bracket, Car Charger, User Manual-English
Details:
• Video Format: Mov H.264 compression
• Resolution: FULL HD 1080P = (1920*1080) 30FPS/25FPS 720P = (1280*720) 60FPS/30FPS/25FPS WVGA = (320*240) 30FPS/120FPS
• Still Image Resolution: 2048x1536, 2592x1944, 3200x2400, 4000x3000, 4608x3456
• Timelapse: Yes, 3, 5, 10, 30 and 60 seconds
• Lens: 142 degree(1080P), 172 degree(720P&WVGA)
• Digital zoom: 4x
• Sensor: 5 Mega CMOS
• Screen: 1.5 inch TFT Screen
• Memory: SDHC card (up to 32G)
• Battery Time: Approx 2.5hrs
• Water Proof/Resistant: Yes Waterproof (IP68)
• Number Plate readability: Yes
• Dimensions: 115mm (L) x 58mm (W) x 50mm (D)
• Weight: ?
Purchase from:
• Ebay
• Search Name: Crocolis HD - 1080P Full HD Extreme Sports Action Camera (Waterproof)
This camera has received some very positive reviews and seems to be a very good mid priced option.
------------------------------------
Contour Roam
(User Feedback)
------------------------------------
Cost: $299 (approx)
Footage:
Coming Soon
What’s Included:
1 x Contour Roam Camera, 1 x Rotating Surface Mount, 1 x Profile Mount, 1 x Mount Tether, 1x USB Cable, 1 x Lens Cap
Details:
• Video Format: MOV H.264 compression
• Resolution: 1080p = 1920x1080 pixels at 30 fps or 25 fps, 960p = 1280x960 at 30 fps or 25 fps, 720p = 1280x720 at 30fps or 25 fps
• Still Image Resolution: No
• Timelapse: No
• Lens: 170º Rotates 270°, from -90° to 180° allowing inverted mounting
• Sensor: 5 Megapixel
• Screen: No, Settings need to be changed via PC
• Memory: Micro SD card (up to 32G)
• Battery Time: Approx 3.5hrs
• Water Proof/Resistant: Yes Waterproof 1 metre for 30mins
• Number Plate readability: Yes very good
• Dimensions: 100mm (H) x 55mm (W) x 34mm (D)
• Weight: 145g
This is an excellent camera if you can afford it. There are also other mounts available
Purchase from:
• Plenty of Australian retailers or online
• Search Name: Contour Roam
------------------------------------
GoPro HD Helmet Hero 1
(I own and use this camera)
------------------------------------
Cost: $309 (approx)
Footage:
What’s Included:
1 HD HERO Camera (5 megapixel), 1 Rechargeable 1100 mAh Lithium-Ion Battery 1 Waterproof Quick-Release Housing (197’/60 m), 1 Headlamp-Style Head Strap ,1 Vented Helmet Strap, 2 Curved, 3M™ Adhesive Mounts, 2 Flat, 3M Adhesive Mounts, 1 Three-Way Pivoting Side Arm Assembly, 2 Quick-Release Buckles, 1 USB Cable, 1 Component Video (HDTV) Cable 1 Composite Video + Audio Out Cable
Details:
• Video Format: MOV H.264 compression
• Resolution: 1080p = 1920×1080 pixels, 30 fps, 960p = 1280×960, 30 fps, 720p = 1280×720, 60 fps, 720p = 1280×720, 30 fps
• Still Image Resolution: 2048x1536, 2592x1944, 3200x2400, 4000x3000, 4608x3456
• Timelapse: Yes 1, 2, 5, 10, 30 or 60 secs
• Lens: 127º wide angle in 1080p mode, 170º ultra wide angle in WVGA, 720p, or 960p mode
• Sensor: 1/2.5″ HD CMOS, 2.2µm-sized pixels
• Screen: LED 16mm x 15mm Change settings only
• Memory: SDHC card (up to 32G)
• Battery Time: Approx 2.5hrs
• Water Proof/Resistant: Yes Waterproof 60 metres (waterproof housing)
• Number Plate readability: Yes very good
• Dimensions: 42mm (H) x 60mm (W) x 30mm (D)
• Weight: 167g (includes battery and case)
This is an excellent camera if you can afford it. The housing is just about bomb proof and will take some bangs and knocks. There are a host of mounts for it, which are also very good. There are also other accessories, such as Battery Bacpac, this increases recording times to approx 5 hrs, there is also a LCD BacPac which is a detachable LCD screen for on camera playback and preview.
Purchase from:
• Plenty of Australian retailers or online
• Search Name: GoPro HD Helmet Hero 1
------------------------------------
Contour GPS
(User Feedback)
------------------------------------
Cost: $379 (approx)
Footage:
http://vimeo.com/30007777" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
What’s Included:
1 x Contour GPS, 1 x Rechargeable Battery, 1 x Goggle Strap Mount, 2 x Rotating Adhesive-Backed Helmet Mounts, 1 x USB Cable and 1 x 2GB MicroSD Card and a leash to keep your camera safe.
Details:
• Video Format: MOV H.264 compression
• Resolution: 1080p = 1920 x 1080 at 30 fps, 960p = 1280×960 at 30 fps, 720p = 1280×720 at 60 fps, 720p = 1280×720 at 30 fps,
• Still Image Resolution: 2592 x 1944
• Timelapse: Yes 2592 x 1944 pixels at 3, 5, 10, 30, 60 second intervals
• Lens: 1350 wide angle (720 and 960 modes), 1100 wide angle (1080),Sensor: 5 Megapixel
• GPS: NMEA Format, embedded in the Video file, Stills: GPS data stored in a log file
• Bluetooth: Bluetooth v2.1 EDR (Enhanced Data Rate)
• Screen: No, Settings need to be changed via PC
• Memory: Micro SD card (up to 32G)
• Battery Time: Approx 2.5hrs
• Water Proof/Resistant: Yes Water resistant ("splashproof"), not submersible
• Number Plate readability: Yes very good
• Dimensions: 95mm (H) x 58mm (W) x 35mm (D)
• Weight: 150g (including battery)
This is an excellent camera if you can afford it. There are also other mounts available
Purchase from:
• Plenty of Australian retailers or online
• Search Name: Contour GPS
------------------------------------
External battery Pack
(I own and use this)
------------------------------------
Cost: $17 (approx)
What’s Included:
Various connectors for connecting to different things, such as phones, Ipod, Bluetooth and GPS
Details:
• Battery Type : Lithium-iom Cell
• Input Voltage: DC about 5V
• Input Currant: 500mA
• Capacity: 7.8Wh
• Charge Time: 4.5 hours
• Charging Mode: USB or AC adaptor
• Dimensions: 80mm (L) x 45mm (W) x 13mm(D)
• Weight: 55g
This is used with the Jumbo 808 camera, it allows for another 2.5 hrs recording time. It even has two LED lights, these are quite bright and could be used as a torch in an emergency.
Purchase from:
• Ebay Seller: eletoponline365,
------------------------------------
Bicycle Cameras
There are more and more cyclists wanting to use a video camera to record their commutes, in the event of an accident, they are able to rely on the footage to prove what took place.
There is a wide variety of cameras on the market, some as cheap as $10 and others costing $400 or more. This information only covers a few of the more popular cameras.
I have provided the following information about various cameras and an external battery to help you decide which is best for you. This is a guide only and the information is from my own experiences as well as from what other users have reported. You should always do your own research before buying any camera.
------------------------------------
Related information about cameras and mounts, can be found here:
Camera FAQ's Here >
Mounting FAQs - DIY and Third Party Mounts >
------------------------------------
This will be updated as I receive more information about the different cameras. I hope this information is a help to you.
------------------------------------
Cameras
------------------------------------
MD80
(I own and use this camera)
------------------------------------
Cost: $14 (approx)
Footage:
What’s Included:
1 X Mini DV Camera, 1 X Silicone cover, 1 X USB cable, 3 X Brackets, Manual
Details:
• Video Format: AVI
• Resolution: Support 30 fps for 720x480 and 320x240 IT IS NOT HD
• Lens: 80 degree (approx)
• Photo: NO
• Memory: Micro SD (up to 16gig)
• Battery Time: Approx 1hr
• Water Proof/Resistant: NO
• Number Plate readability: Yes as long as the car is directly behind or in front and close.
• Size: 55mm (L) x 20mm (W) x 20mm (H)
• Weight: 36g
Purchase from:
• Ebay Seller novelemart
• http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/ws/eBayISAPI" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false; ... OC:AU:1123
• Search Name: Mini DV Sports Video Camera Spy Cam MD80
This camera is very small and lightweight. It only has a recording time of 1 hour and is AVI, so it is not HD. If you are looking for a cheap alternative then this is as cheap as they get. If you are looking for a HD camera then keep reading.
------------------------------------
Jumbo HD 808
(I own and use this camera)
------------------------------------
Cost: $48 (approx)
Footage:
What’s Included:
1 x HD Car key camera, 1 x Car Charger, 1 x Car charger Cable Thin 2 meters long, 1 x USB cable, thicker and 1 meter long, 2 x Stick on Velcro Squares, 1 x User Manual
Details:
• Video Format: MOV H.264 compression
• Resolution: 720P High Definition Video 1280 x 720 H.264/AVC1 30fps .
• Photo: 5.0 Mega pixels Photo JPEG format: 2592 x1944.jpg
• Lens: 90 degree (approx)
• Memory: Micro SD (up to 32gig)
• Battery Time: Approx 1.5 hrs
• External Battery Pack: (Optional) YES Extra 2.5hrs
• Water Proof/Resistant: NO
• Number Plate readability: Yes very good
• Size: 65mm (L) x 34mm (W) x 18mm (H)
• Weight: 64g
Purchase from:
• Ebay Seller eletoponline365, extremely good service and fast shipping
• http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/ws/eBayISAPI" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false; ... OC:AU:1123
• Search Name: #11 Full 808HD Cam Car Key Camera DVR Driving Recorder
This is the best value camera at the moment. Used with the External Battery Pack, you will get approx 4hrs recording time, provided you use a large capacity memory card.
------------------------------------
Extreme Cam (Crocolis HD Extreme Cam)
(Reviews)
------------------------------------
Cost: $185 (approx)
Footage:
Coming Soon
What’s Included:
Camera, Battery, Helmet Grip, Velcro and 2 x 3 M Pad Handle Bar Grip, Base Bracket, AV Cable, USB Cable, Power Adapter, Short/Long Velcro Strap, HDMI Cable, Microphone, Suction Cup Bracket, Car Charger, User Manual-English
Details:
• Video Format: Mov H.264 compression
• Resolution: FULL HD 1080P = (1920*1080) 30FPS/25FPS 720P = (1280*720) 60FPS/30FPS/25FPS WVGA = (320*240) 30FPS/120FPS
• Still Image Resolution: 2048x1536, 2592x1944, 3200x2400, 4000x3000, 4608x3456
• Timelapse: Yes, 3, 5, 10, 30 and 60 seconds
• Lens: 142 degree(1080P), 172 degree(720P&WVGA)
• Digital zoom: 4x
• Sensor: 5 Mega CMOS
• Screen: 1.5 inch TFT Screen
• Memory: SDHC card (up to 32G)
• Battery Time: Approx 2.5hrs
• Water Proof/Resistant: Yes Waterproof (IP68)
• Number Plate readability: Yes
• Dimensions: 115mm (L) x 58mm (W) x 50mm (D)
• Weight: ?
Purchase from:
• Ebay
• Search Name: Crocolis HD - 1080P Full HD Extreme Sports Action Camera (Waterproof)
This camera has received some very positive reviews and seems to be a very good mid priced option.
------------------------------------
Contour Roam
(User Feedback)
------------------------------------
Cost: $299 (approx)
Footage:
Coming Soon
What’s Included:
1 x Contour Roam Camera, 1 x Rotating Surface Mount, 1 x Profile Mount, 1 x Mount Tether, 1x USB Cable, 1 x Lens Cap
Details:
• Video Format: MOV H.264 compression
• Resolution: 1080p = 1920x1080 pixels at 30 fps or 25 fps, 960p = 1280x960 at 30 fps or 25 fps, 720p = 1280x720 at 30fps or 25 fps
• Still Image Resolution: No
• Timelapse: No
• Lens: 170º Rotates 270°, from -90° to 180° allowing inverted mounting
• Sensor: 5 Megapixel
• Screen: No, Settings need to be changed via PC
• Memory: Micro SD card (up to 32G)
• Battery Time: Approx 3.5hrs
• Water Proof/Resistant: Yes Waterproof 1 metre for 30mins
• Number Plate readability: Yes very good
• Dimensions: 100mm (H) x 55mm (W) x 34mm (D)
• Weight: 145g
This is an excellent camera if you can afford it. There are also other mounts available
Purchase from:
• Plenty of Australian retailers or online
• Search Name: Contour Roam
------------------------------------
GoPro HD Helmet Hero 1
(I own and use this camera)
------------------------------------
Cost: $309 (approx)
Footage:
What’s Included:
1 HD HERO Camera (5 megapixel), 1 Rechargeable 1100 mAh Lithium-Ion Battery 1 Waterproof Quick-Release Housing (197’/60 m), 1 Headlamp-Style Head Strap ,1 Vented Helmet Strap, 2 Curved, 3M™ Adhesive Mounts, 2 Flat, 3M Adhesive Mounts, 1 Three-Way Pivoting Side Arm Assembly, 2 Quick-Release Buckles, 1 USB Cable, 1 Component Video (HDTV) Cable 1 Composite Video + Audio Out Cable
Details:
• Video Format: MOV H.264 compression
• Resolution: 1080p = 1920×1080 pixels, 30 fps, 960p = 1280×960, 30 fps, 720p = 1280×720, 60 fps, 720p = 1280×720, 30 fps
• Still Image Resolution: 2048x1536, 2592x1944, 3200x2400, 4000x3000, 4608x3456
• Timelapse: Yes 1, 2, 5, 10, 30 or 60 secs
• Lens: 127º wide angle in 1080p mode, 170º ultra wide angle in WVGA, 720p, or 960p mode
• Sensor: 1/2.5″ HD CMOS, 2.2µm-sized pixels
• Screen: LED 16mm x 15mm Change settings only
• Memory: SDHC card (up to 32G)
• Battery Time: Approx 2.5hrs
• Water Proof/Resistant: Yes Waterproof 60 metres (waterproof housing)
• Number Plate readability: Yes very good
• Dimensions: 42mm (H) x 60mm (W) x 30mm (D)
• Weight: 167g (includes battery and case)
This is an excellent camera if you can afford it. The housing is just about bomb proof and will take some bangs and knocks. There are a host of mounts for it, which are also very good. There are also other accessories, such as Battery Bacpac, this increases recording times to approx 5 hrs, there is also a LCD BacPac which is a detachable LCD screen for on camera playback and preview.
Purchase from:
• Plenty of Australian retailers or online
• Search Name: GoPro HD Helmet Hero 1
------------------------------------
Contour GPS
(User Feedback)
------------------------------------
Cost: $379 (approx)
Footage:
http://vimeo.com/30007777" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
What’s Included:
1 x Contour GPS, 1 x Rechargeable Battery, 1 x Goggle Strap Mount, 2 x Rotating Adhesive-Backed Helmet Mounts, 1 x USB Cable and 1 x 2GB MicroSD Card and a leash to keep your camera safe.
Details:
• Video Format: MOV H.264 compression
• Resolution: 1080p = 1920 x 1080 at 30 fps, 960p = 1280×960 at 30 fps, 720p = 1280×720 at 60 fps, 720p = 1280×720 at 30 fps,
• Still Image Resolution: 2592 x 1944
• Timelapse: Yes 2592 x 1944 pixels at 3, 5, 10, 30, 60 second intervals
• Lens: 1350 wide angle (720 and 960 modes), 1100 wide angle (1080),Sensor: 5 Megapixel
• GPS: NMEA Format, embedded in the Video file, Stills: GPS data stored in a log file
• Bluetooth: Bluetooth v2.1 EDR (Enhanced Data Rate)
• Screen: No, Settings need to be changed via PC
• Memory: Micro SD card (up to 32G)
• Battery Time: Approx 2.5hrs
• Water Proof/Resistant: Yes Water resistant ("splashproof"), not submersible
• Number Plate readability: Yes very good
• Dimensions: 95mm (H) x 58mm (W) x 35mm (D)
• Weight: 150g (including battery)
This is an excellent camera if you can afford it. There are also other mounts available
Purchase from:
• Plenty of Australian retailers or online
• Search Name: Contour GPS
------------------------------------
External battery Pack
(I own and use this)
------------------------------------
Cost: $17 (approx)
What’s Included:
Various connectors for connecting to different things, such as phones, Ipod, Bluetooth and GPS
Details:
• Battery Type : Lithium-iom Cell
• Input Voltage: DC about 5V
• Input Currant: 500mA
• Capacity: 7.8Wh
• Charge Time: 4.5 hours
• Charging Mode: USB or AC adaptor
• Dimensions: 80mm (L) x 45mm (W) x 13mm(D)
• Weight: 55g
This is used with the Jumbo 808 camera, it allows for another 2.5 hrs recording time. It even has two LED lights, these are quite bright and could be used as a torch in an emergency.
Purchase from:
• Ebay Seller: eletoponline365,