As some of you know, I launched the RetroResolve YouTube channel just a few months ago. So far, in the space of around two months, the channel has racked up 63,089 views and 2,111 watch hours. As someone who’s 40 and knows nothing about creating content, the response has been fantastic and if you’re thinking about trying it out, my advice is a firm go for it.
It has, however, been a big learning curve. I’ve picked up more knowledge about cameras in the last two months than I have in the previous 40 years, which leads us to today’s review.
After you’ve got the recording down, the video creation to a point you’re happy with, and you understand the importance of fancy words like ‘aperture’, the next step is looking into a solid vlogging camera for when you’re out. Back when I reviewed the Dark Sentry Streaming Mic, I made a point of saying when you’re starting out the last thing you want to do is grab the most expensive gear possible. If you end up disliking what you’re doing, that’s money wasted. Whereas if you love what you’re doing, cheaper tech can be upgraded at a later date.
Pictured above: Left, a photo showing the poor zoom function of the SJCAM. Right: The zoom function on the Sony ZV-E10. Image credit: Wesley Copeland.
That’s where the $159 SJCAM C300 comes in. It’s a budget vlogging or travel camera that’s capable of up to 4K ultra HD at 30 frames per second and 1080p HD at 60 frames per second. I’ll get this out the way now, the SJCAM C300 isn’t going to rival the likes of the GoPro Hero12 ($400), but given the massive price disparity, that’s understandable. The C300 is very much a starter vlogging kit that packs in almost everything a newcomer would need at what most will consider a reasonable price tag. It’s not perfect by any means, but it packs a heavy punch at an affordable price.
Specs.
Photo taken with the SJCAM C300. Image credit: Wesley Copeland.
The C300 comes in two parts that can be connected into one another. The smaller camera fits neatly into your pocket, while the larger version adds an extra two inches to the length. It’s still pocket-sized, it just may poke out a bit. What are the advantages of a camera that can split in two? It’s all down to the battery capacity.
The smaller camera uses a 1000 mAh battery that lasts for around three hours when recording in 1080p, while the larger section utilizes a 2800 mAh battery that doubles the battery life to around six hours. I’d also argue the longer nature of the second camera makes it easier to hold when recording.
Both cameras feature a tiny 1.3-inch touchscreen display that works, but I found myself connecting the C300 to the app on my phone to change settings and get a clearer view of the angle I’m shooting from. The screen is small, but this is a travel camera, so I understand the logic behind this choice. The important thing is that even out in sunlight, the screen is clearly visible and reacts to touch.
On the recording side of things, you’ve got multiple options to choose from:
- 4K (3840 x 2160) at 30 frames per second.
- 2K (2560 x 1440) at 60 or 30 frames per second.
- 1080P at 120 or 60 or 30 frames per second.
- 720P at 120 or 60 or 30 frames per second.
4K is the best choice for shooting as it provides the clearest playback quality. It will use more juice and take up more storage, though. You will want to drop down to 1080p if you’re looking to record in higher framerates, too.
Vloggers tend to vary how they film footage so there isn’t a right or wrong way. If you want a more lifelike look that mirrors soap operas, then the more frames the better. Me personally, I create with the intention of it looking close to a movie, and as films are captured at 25 frames per second, I record in 30 frames per second to get that Hollywood visual. As I say, though, It’s all down to your personal preference.
If you plan on using the C300 also as a standard camera, photos can be taken in 20, 16, 14, 12, 10, 8, 5, 3, or two 2 megapixels.
As I mentioned, it’s important to note the C300 isn’t going to rival the more pricey options in terms of visual clarity. You can get a better picture by adjusting settings to better match how things look, but don’t expect footage to appear crystal clear. Footage quality is average at best, good for the price. What I will say is thanks to all the extra features, and the ability to finetune the image, the C300 does the job and is a better alternative to using a mobile phone for around the same price.
Features.
Image Credit: Wesley Copeland.
It’s the features that really separate the C300 from being a budget action camera and a cheap one. The six-axis gyro stabilization is excellent for something in this price bracket. It won’t remove all shakes from your footage, but it will reduce them to a point where you’ll question if you need to edit it.
The C300 is the Swiss army knife of travel cameras. The 154-degree aspherical lens helps to capture wider shots, the included waterproof case allows the C300 to reach underwater depths of up to 30 meters, and there’s a car mode for if you want to capture footage from a car or jeep. There is low-lighting functionality as well, but I wasn’t impressed by the results. No matter what I tried, I couldn’t capture indoor shots in low lighting I’d be happy to showcase.
I’d also be remiss if I didn’t talk about the app. The SJCAM app is basic, but being able to view what the camera outputs or change settings on a larger screen like a mobile phone or tablet really lets you set the scene before hitting record. The built-in 1.3-inch screen is fine for when you’re outside and in a rush, but having a larger option lets us create the best shots possible without having to squint.
What’s in the Box?
When I say the C300 comes with everything you need to get up and running, I mean it. There are clips to attach it to stands and chest mounts, a waterproof case, more mounts for a helmet, and the C300 also features a standard screw hole that will fit most tripods. There’s also an in-depth instruction manual that clearly explains how everything operates.
- Back Clip.
- Base Mount.
- Flat Bottom Bracket.
- Frame Mount.
- Helmet Base.
- Screw.
- Waterproof Case.
- USB Cable.
- Lanyard.
- Cleaning Cloth
Verdict.
Thanks to touchscreen integration, the C300 is perfect for newcomers who want a no-nonsense way of recording. If you want something that lasts as well, the upper battery life of six hours is a lot compared with a standard camera. It comfortably doubles the uptime of my Sony ZV-E10. It doesn’t match the quality, but if I’m at an expo and need something that’s going to last for the entire duration of my time there, there’s a chance I’d use the C300 instead.
Compared with more expensive cameras, the C300 isn’t on the same level. The capture quality is average, which is fine because everything all comes back to that $159 price tag. For experienced vloggers, chances are you’ll have something you’re already happy with. But if you’re new and looking for something that won’t break the bank and packs in some solid extras, the SJCAM C300 comes easy to recommend as long as you keep your expectations in check.
How I Tested.
During the 40 hours I tested the SJCAM C300 for, I recorded in multiple settings across different light levels to get a clear indication of how the device performs in different conditions. I wasn’t able to test it in salt water, but it worked well underwater in my bathtub.
I also depleted the batteries several times and charged them to make sure no electrical faults were found in the device.
Review unit provided by SJCAM. To learn more about our review policy click here. | Alternatively, click here to find out why you can trust me.
