The Digital Bridges Technology, Apps, Gadgets, Media and More
A smartphone may not always be the best option for recording video, depending on the situation. When it comes to Facebook rules, you can post almost anything shot on your smartphone. Mini cameras are a little bit different since they are used for investigative purposes. Consumers are increasingly turning to mini cameras for affordable and high quality video recording due to their size and ease of use. Here are some minicams to consider if you are in the market for one:
GoPro HERO4 Session Black 8MP
The brand most often associated with minicams in 2016, GoPro is a great option for users looking to buy into the digital camera market. This model retails around $250, and is reported to be the smallest and lightest GoPro yet. WiFi and bluetooth capability means you can control this model from your smartphone or tablet, and easily share videos with friends. This makes it an excellent addition for those who already have a Fitbit. It is waterproof and has two microphones, completing the package for an excellent high-end consumer minicam.
Xiaomi Xiaofang Smart 1080p WiFi IP Camera
The original Xiaomi Xiaofang smart camera is one of the most popular mini cameras available. This smart camera receives rave reviews from all its users. Why would it not? The mini security camera can be controlled wirelessly via the Mi Home app. This app is available on the App Store and on the Google Play store. However, the device is only available for use in the mainland China region right now. So unfortunately, if you are not planning to use the device in China, you are out of luck. But if you do live in China and want one of the best mini surveillance cameras around, the Xiaomi Xiaofang camera is definitely one to consider.
Sony HDR-AZ1 Action Cam Mini
The Sony HDR-AZ1 camera resembles older video recorders and is handheld. It can record 1080p video and 720p video (including slow motion) and is splashproof. It retails for around $150 and receives good reviews. It will easily capture those meteorites you stumble upon on vacation. This may be a good option for entry level consumers that don’t want to break the bank, but also don’t mind it’s size.
Polaroid XS100i Ultra Thin HD Camcorder
Polaroid may not be the first name people think of when talking about cameras in 2016, but this model is worth considering for consumers looking for a waterproof, sport camera in the $150 price range. You will also never have to worry about learning how to convert image to PDF with a simple camera like a Polaroid. Featuring WiFi, 1080p, and most features included in our two other cameras, the Polaroid XS100i has excellent reviews from the bicycle community.
CueCam Night Vision WiFi Mini Camera
If you need mini camera for surveillance purposes, the CueCam Mini Camera has you covered. This camera can capture surveillance footage in compete darkness. Then, you can review footage remotely using WiFi. This mini surveillance camera usually retails for up to $130. However, you can often find it for prices as low as $70. If you want to take pictures for the next froyo update on your blog, this camera will not help you. However, if you need a security camera, this mini surveillance camera is the perfect solution.
ClockCam
If you are not in the market for an active camera and need something that James Bond might use in the spy world, consider the ClockCam. This fully functioning alarm clock and music player can blend in to catch cookie thieves at home or figure out who is hiding all the pens at work! This is a much better way to spend your money than wasting it on an oscilloscope app that you will only use for a day or two. While the resolution is not as high as other cameras here, it receives good reviews and retails for $100.
Sony FDR-AX53
Another entry from Sony, the FDR-AX53 is the newest 4k minicam to hit the market. It boasts the highest quality with full HD capabilities, including microchips technology. If you are looking for incredible resolution and zoom options, this could be the camera for you. However, at close to $1000 it is hard to ignore reviews that say Sony should have included better manual controls. Sony released the HDR-CX675 around the same time for about half the price, and while it doesn’t have the same quality specs as the former, it does include an updated autofocus and HD features.
Reasons To Buy Minicams
Minicams help you capture footage in a variety of ways. You can easily capture what is happening in law enforcement, private investigations and even your workplace. Today, many cars like the Audi Q7 features mini cameras to allow better driving. Sometimes, the smallest of cameras can help you uncover what is happening based on night, day or motion senses. Depending on your needs, you can find several reasons to use a minicam.
There are a variety of options to consider when purchasing a minicam. Decide what features you need before you search by price alone. You may wish to consider durability as a priority if you are an active consumer looking to record outdoor exploits. For parents looking to film kids’ games to show the grandparents, storage size might be more important so you don’t miss an important moment. Even if money is no object and you want the best quality, be sure to research the features included with the model you are considering. This way, you can be sure the camera will produce images that you can use for your mirror image Photoshop project. Make sure you compare reviews and specifications while shopping for a minicam, so you don’t end up with an expensive paperweight.
Image from http://www.outdoorgearlab.com/Helmet-Cam-Reviews/GoPro-HERO-4-Silver
