ATC2K Waterproof Action Cam by Oregon Scientific
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Digital camera reviews of ATC2K Waterproof Action Cam
Digital camera Review: Fair, not great.
Summary: 3 Stars
If it wasn't for it's low price I probably would not have given it a second glance. One thing that really did bother me was that the small icons in the LCD display; some of them are really close to the border and it's difficult to see without having to look at the display in a slight angle.
The image quality is "fair". I also have one of the older Flip Video recorders where the image quality is far better.
I do like the many mounting accessories they give you with this camera and the fact that its water resistance is also a nice bonus. The camera also feels like it could take a drop from a few feet and still keep on working - probably because the casing just feels really strong. This sort of gives you the feeling that if the camera was mounted to your helmet or bike and you were to crash that the camera would most likely survive.
The reason I went with this camera was, as mentioned, the price and I liked that I didn't have wires dangling everywhere. If there were actual mounts for my Flip Video (the newer versions now have mounts and mounting accessories) I probably would not have bought this camera - I would have probably gone with the more expensive "bullet" camera packages.
Since my use is for mountain biking (from cross country to extreme riding) this camera makes a good "secondary" camera. The primary camera will most likely be one of the more expensive (proven) bullet cameras with the steady image ability.
The other thing I noticed was the weight of the thing. You *CAN* feel the weight of the thing when it's mounted on your helmet.
That all said, I think this camera is good for the person on a budget or just experimenting. I can't dislike this camera too much because it was rather inexpensive. My experience with this and the Flip is now allowing me to feel better about dropping some serious $$$ in a better video camera package.
Digital camera Review: Fairly bulletproof camera
Summary: 4 Stars
If you want to capture video in perilous situations, this camera isn't a bad choice but the image quality is poor. The optics are the primary problem. It is difficult to distinguish image quality differences between the maximum pixel resolution (640x480) and the lower resolutions due to the poor quality optics. The audio isn't very good either, even with the protective cap removed. Still, the camera is robust and will probably survive most abuse so it has its place.Digital camera Review: Fire Department Use
Summary: 4 Stars
I have seen this product in use yet am waiting for the extra cash to purchase this item. People in the fire service have mounted this camera to the helmet and have recorded fire scenes. It is a great training tool as well as streaming image of what happens during a call. It can also aid as training, as long as the person knows how to use it. Especially if they don't make so many dramatic movements.
One fireman has run several calls and recorded a few hours of video. Over the time frame of use he has learned how to operate and states he tries to remember that it is mounted on his helmet and looks around to capture certain video and keep a steady head. His technique with the camera is getting better and holds up against most heat as well it can be used in our swift water training (due to the fact it is water proof to a certain Meter) and rope rescue operations (to show how to rescue a victim/patient, as well as other operations).
I agree with the other reviews stating that the resolution is not all that great and sound can sometimes not be very clear. If you are looking for something to record on scene in the fire service, I consider this a great tool. It might also keep someone from getting in to trouble because it will record what you LT or Captain might say to you and prove that you are not the one at fault. "Hint".
I give 4 stars because it is not perfect but definately serves a purpose. And I am sure by the other reviews you have read, you have found out how this product will assist you in your needs.
Digital camera Review: Firefighter Tested
Summary: 5 Stars
I am a firefighter who has been using this cam as a helmet cam and it has been abused pretty well and keeps kicking. The quality is exceptional for the price. It has been in hot environments and has been soaked with water and keeps going.Digital camera Review: Fun, Inexpensive POV Camcorder! Recommended!
Summary: 4 Stars
The ATC2K Action Cam is a fairly inexpensive (a relative term, I know) and handy waterproof POV (Point of View) camcorder. For the price, this camcorder is a great value and performed better than I expected.
The picture quality is OK for a camera with 640x480 resolution at 30 frames per second and there are a lot of video samples to be seen on YouTube (just search on ATC2K). Some of the videos are very creative with the camera being attached to model boats, rockets, and airplanes. There are also a lot of POV shots on motorcycles, helmets, spearguns, etc.
The camera comes with straps (rubber and Velcro) and mounting plates to assure secure attachment to a wide assortment of objects. These work well, but you will want to check occasionally to be sure it hasn't worked loose.
The body is a little larger than I expected but it is very rugged and is indeed waterproof. The SD card slot, AV connector, and battery compartment (2 x AA) are reached by removing the well sealed cap on the end of the unit. The rugged build does make activating the menu buttons a little hard until you get the hang of it.
There are a few issues with this model that should be pointed out:
* No on camera preview - this puts guess work into aiming, but most POV cameras don't have a built in monitor
* Narrow Field of Vision - this makes the picture feel a little claustrophobic at times
* Limited SD Size Support - Only up to 2gb SD cards are supported allowing about 1hr recording at the highest resolution. Note - no card was provided with mine.
Over all I am very pleased with the quality and versatility of this camcorder, especially at the reasonable price this is selling for these days. Recommended!