Action camera with DVR function: selection rules and advantages

An action camera with a video recorder function is a device with an expanded range of options. Allows you to conduct very high-quality shooting in unstable conditions (shaking, sudden maneuvers, changes in angle). It can also work as a recorder that captures traffic images. The features, pros and cons of such models are described in this article.

Differences between an action camera and a DVR

To understand how an action camera with a DVR function works, you need to understand how these devices differ from each other. The first is intended for shooting in shaking conditions, sudden maneuvers when driving, as well as under water, in the cold or in the heat. The DVR function is only a useful addition and not a main option.

Compared to a DVR, an action camera has several differences:

• the body is made of impact-resistant materials;
• it is completely sealed, preventing the ingress of water and dust;
• allows you to take very high-quality shooting even with strong shaking;
• Long enough recording without additional charging;
• There are no sensors that detect tilt or movement that automatically triggers recording.

Thus, an action camera can be used instead of a DVR. But reverse replacement is not possible, because the recorder is not designed for such tasks.

Pros and cons of devices

Quite often an action camera is used as a video recorder. It has wider functionality, the advantages of such a device are obvious:

• can be safely used both in the car and outside, for example, during hunting or spectacular shooting;
• The device can withstand falls, too low or high temperatures, and also works under water;
• you can make cyclic recordings - in this case, an action camera is used as a car video recorder;
• a fairly large selection of fastenings that can be used at your discretion;
• You can get excellent quality video even with shaking and sharp turns.

However, there are also disadvantages:

• the camera will have to be turned on before the start of each trip, because it does not start automatically with the engine;
• cameras are almost always more expensive compared to similar recorders;
• they are not adapted to constant exposure to direct sunlight (in the heat of the sun they can begin to freeze).

An action camera is often used instead of a car recorder. This is due to the fact that it is quite reliable and has wide functionality. On the other hand, the DVR does not have the disadvantages of this device:

• it starts with the engine;
• does not freeze in the heat;
• costs less.

In addition, it has its own advantages:

• warns of a possible violation of the speed limit or approaching crossings;
• can be of any size, so it can accommodate large matrices that provide maximum video quality;
• You can load data into memory, for example, about the location of large cameras;
• in case of complete discharge, a recording of the moment of impact will be saved automatically;
• there are sensors that warn of dangerous proximity to another vehicle.

How to choose an action camera with a recorder function

It is quite clear that an action camera and a video recorder are quite different from each other. And if you need a device for shooting in extreme conditions, you should choose the first option. If it is enough to take only a picture on the road, there is no need to spend extra money - it is better to purchase a recorder.

But it also happens that you need to combine both functionalities. Then it is advisable to decide which is better - a DVR or an action camera. A truly good model must meet several requirements:

• the presence of a high-quality microphone that can clearly record the voices of all participants in the dialogue, including traffic police inspectors;
• the ability to shoot in cyclic mode - the action camera as a car DVR should automatically begin deleting the oldest files and recording new ones instead (if the memory is full);
• auto-rotate option, thanks to which recording will be carried out correctly, regardless of the position of the camera;
• shooting while charging from the mains or cigarette lighter;
• car mounts included;
• an action camera as a recorder in a car should have a fairly good viewing angle - at least 120 degrees;
• built-in modules (GSM, GPS);
• high quality of shooting (provided by the size of the matrix, frame rate, and high resolution).

If you compare a DVR with an action camera, you can see that these devices differ from each other in purpose. If you plan to shoot video during strong shaking and strong maneuvers, you should purchase an action camera.But if the main function is to film while driving, it is enough to buy a DVR.