Best Camera For Time Lapse
It is not easy getting yourself a best camera for time lapse. There isn’t a lack of availability, it is just that the sheer number of options out there make it quite a tough decision to pick out which is the best camera for time-lapse.
Worry not though because me, some guy on the internet, is going list out around ten cameras that are currently out in the market (and available on Amazon) which I feel are currently the best. This is not a direct competition as the price range of these products vary from each other, so this list is in no particular order, simply the 10 best cameras for time-lapse that I think you should consider. Let us head straight into the list.
BEST CAMERAS FOR TIME LAPSE REVIEW
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BEST DSLR FOR TIME LAPSE
1. NIKON D780 - BEST CAMERA FOR TIME LAPSE PHOTOGRAPHY
PRODUCT DETAILS:
Features
A good timelapse camera must have a higher resolution and this Nikon D780 is equipped with it. This time lapse with dslr has 24.5 MP backside illuminated FX full frame image sensor. This sensor has the capacity to gather light even in dark situations. Not only that, the camera is also splendid for taking time lapse videos with 4k resolution and you can say this as 4k time lapse camera. Let's talk about its design and performance.
Design
When D750 was launched in the market it was a great success and it has a great fan following for its ability to capture time lapse photos and videos. Now its successor D780 has the same robust yet agile body but is packed with more heavy weight performance. This camera shows extreme durability as it is made up of rugged magnesium alloy and carbon fiber materials.
A timelapse camera is mostly used for outdoor shoots like sunset video or a flower blooming. So it is obvious that this type of camera must be weatherproof. This timelapse dslr has dust and moisture sealing which helps in protecting the tech present inside it and yes it is a weatherproof time lapse camera. We found it quite easy while operating this camera with its touch-operable LCD.
Performance
The D780 with its advanced scene recognition system automatically makes the adjustments required and takes the guess about a situation and captures the perfect shot. This is pretty an amazing feature you get with this camera. Talking about the timelapse part, you can set the camera in time lapse to create videos or even combine the images that are taken using interval timer.
One of the biggest perks I got while shooting this DSLR camera is its battery performance. You can literally take 2260 shots per charge and it acts as a life saver for long outings. I had no problem shooting long term time lapse videos in Ultra sharp full frame 4k UHD with advanced cinematic features. Thanks to its storage flexibility. You can also customize the slots for your workflow.
You can also capture and save RAW images in 6 out of 10 special effects modes. Shooting time lapse requires low light performance and high sensitivity. This hd timelapse camera is capable of achieving ISOs upto 51200 and is also expandable to ISO 204,800 which is massive.
What I liked about this CAMERA:
There are few things that really amazed me while using this camera. The creative picture controls gave me the options to capture images in different ways. The focus shift mode allows you to capture the extraordinary depth of field. Not only that, the battery life and storage flexibility were quite impressive. You can transfer the data to any smart device using Snapbridge app via Wifi and Bluetooth. Also, this camera has the full potential to support more than 90 Nikkor lenses and Nikon F-mount lenses. So this one is really versatile. Overall, if you are aiming to shoot long detailed time lapse photos and videos, then this is your pick.
2. CANON EOS 90D DSLR CAMERA
PRODUCT DETAILS:
Features
My next pick for best camera for time lapse is Canon [EOS 90D] which is a favorite among many professionals. This camera can simply capture both time lapse photos and videos with a 32.5 Megapixel CMOS sensor and thus high quality is guaranteed. Why I recommend this camera for time lapse is it is weatherproof, captures RAW data in high quality. Canon boasts that its camera is fast, versatile and impressive. Now let's check whether its features about upto it or not.
Design
There are plenty of things that make the 90D better than its predecessor like the shutter speed is twice as durable and captures 200,000 shots and improved battery life. But in terms of design, this one is a bit lighter than the previous model. The vari-angle touch screen LCD is 3 inches which is quite feasible to take selfies, review photos with just a tap.
You can take this timelapse dslr for outdoor time lapse shoots because it is weather sealed. So it can withstand any kind of weather conditions. The battery grip holds 2 battery packs and allows vertical operation and gives you a dedicated grip. The notable part about this camera is that it is customizable. Yes, there are two multi-controller buttons present on the camera's back. Using these buttons you can locate and control the camera functions hasslefree.
Performance
First, shutter speed is an important factor to create dramatic effects by either blurring motion or freezing action. That said, if you want to capture clear time lapse photos, this factor helps.
Aforementioned, when compared to its predecessor, the shutter speed of E90 is twice the number. For fast and accurate autofocus, this camera has dual pixel CMOS AF so when you are planning for capturing an in depth video, this feature is of great help.
Just like our previous entry, this Canon is also equipped with an EOS intelligent tracking and recognition system that can automatically capture anything easily. Even with high ISO settings this camera can produce sharp results. This is made possible by the Digic 8 image processor present in this camera. Apart from this, capturing RAW videos is essential for time lapse, and Canon's DPP allows speedy processing of JPEGs and CR3 raw files.
What I liked about this CAMERA:
Canon E90 has inbuilt Wifi and Bluetooth features which were missing in its previous version. So you can transfer all files to smart devices easily using the Camera Connect App. I was able to shoot time lapse videos in both 4k UHD 30fps and FHD 120 fps in full and wide angle view. Overall, this time lapse dslr Canon is cheaper than the previous entry.
3. NIKON D5600 DX-FORMAT DIGITAL SLR
PRODUCT DETAILS:
If you are looking for the best timelapse camera that doesn't put a hole in your pocket, then Nikon D5600 could be your best choice.
This camera has some special features in it. And among them the one which is ideal for time lapse is its timelapse recording. This camera can be used for short time projects like sunset/ sunrise recording. The video's can be recorded in full HD 1080p at 60 FPS. So you can expect good quality time lapse videos.
Also, you can take advantage of the dot vari angle touch screen which makes the camera usage quite easy. Its high resolution sensor and broad ISO range are ideal for time lapse videos. Apart from this, you can shoot better videos in low light using the ISO sensitivity of 25,600 which is a decent count for this budget. With the SnapBridge application you can transfer your files to smart devices.
What I liked about this CAMERA:
Now it is possible to buy a time lapse recorder camera on a low budget with any hassle. If you are a beginner who wants to experiment or explore shooting time lapse video, then this cheap time lapse camera with some decent features is highly recommended.
BEST MIRRORLESS CAMERA FOR TIME LAPSE
4. SONY A7 III FULL-FRAME MIRRORLESS CAMERA
PRODUCT DETAILS:
Features
If mirrorless cameras are your favorite, then you can pick Sony A7 III for capturing time lapse photos and videos. With its advanced 24.2 MP BSI full frame image sensor, clicking high quality images and videos is now a breeze. Not only that, this camera is compatible with Sony E mount lenses and thus, you can fit a variety of lenses and get your desired work done perfectly.
Design
Talking about the design, this camera has a sturdy build but it is not weather sealed. This means that it is resistant to water but too much water will damage it. Since they have worked on the grip shape of the camera, you get to hold it more comfortable while taking pictures. Not only that, the 3.0 type 922k-dot LCD screen is tiltable, so it is flexible enough for any kind of framing. Also, more screws have been added to secure the lens mount inorder to ensure durability.
Performance
The ability to shoot RAW images is ideal for time lapse. Here you can capture upto 10 fps w AF/AE tracking2 and you get 89 compressed RAW, 177 JPEG or 40 uncompressed RAW images in one continuous burst. This is quite impressive. Equipped with the new back-illuminated full-frame sensor, this camera is the best for capturing pictures and videos in low light. Adding to this, you get a high sensitivity upto ISO 204800 and thus, these features are ideal for time lapse and we can't recommend it enough.
What I liked about this CAMERA:
If you are a professional who is looking for a mirrorless camera for time-lapse, we strongly recommend this camera. It is loaded with all the necessary features that are ideal for taking time-lapse video and pictures. If you are ready to shed some cash for this professional camera, then go for it.
5. CANON EOS M50 MARK II - BEST CAMERA FOR TIME LAPSE VIDEO
PRODUCT DETAILS:
Features
If Sony a7 III looks expensive, then check out my next pick which is Canon EOS M50 Mark II . You get a high quality Canon zoom lens with this camera which is actually rewarding for a beginner. With its 24.1 megapixel you can now click clear time-lapse video and images. The ISO range is 100 to 25600 which is a decent range for this budget.
Design
This canon time lapse camera fits for vertical video shooting. So you can just mix up your shot length and angles for shooting time-lapse video. Like most of the cameras listed here, this one is also equipped with a large vari-angle LCD touchscreen. You get the freedom to shoot from any angle. It is engineered for use in water and has extra seals that can prevent failures that are caused by raindrops, dust and water splashes. So this time lapse outdoor camera is perfect for shooting outside.
Performance
You can capture stunning videos with 4k 24p/25p and this is something four times the resolution of Full HD. So you get to shoot quality images and videos for time lapse at a low budget. The dual pixel CMOS AF is intelligent enough to auto focus accurately.
You need not worry about the battery life as this camera comes with a special battery from Canon. And you can plug in the camera into any standard wall socket and charge. So it is ideal for long term time-lapse projects. This camera is equipped with a clean HDMI output so can connect it to HDTVs to watch your time lapse videos and it facilitates editing. Not only that, the wireless connectivity allows you to share your content quickly.
What I liked about this CAMERA:
Overall, if you are in search of a small lightweight wireless time lapse camera that has plenty of controls and can click some amazing quality pictures and that comes with high quality lenses, look no further. It is affordable and ideal for beginner content creators, and vloggers.
6. FUJIFILM X-E3 MIRRORLESS DIGITAL CAMERA
PRODUCT DETAILS:
Fujifilm mirrorless digital camera is not just my personal favorite but it has a great fan base and I recommend it for shooting time-lapse pictures and videos. Let me explain why. First, this time lapse video camera with 18-55mm lens gives you 24.3 MP excellent quality pictures and it allows you to shoot in RAW which favours time lapse photography and recording RAW video. Apart from this, you have a high performance processor that gives faster response and does the work as expected.
This camera has a LCD touchscreen with an electrostatic touch panel and display. These touch function controls are pretty cool, you can swipe in four different directions. Both the camera and lens have good quality build and have a Nano-Gi coating technology. Since the camera is waterproof and can act best in any weather condition, you can use it for outdoor time lapse shoots as well.
The continuous shooting feature is much needed for time lapse and this camera has it and it can shoot 8 fps and can continuously capture fast-moving subjects. Overall, this is the best camera for time-lapse. If you are looking for a mirrorless camera under 1000$, then we strongly suggest you to pick this one.
BEST ACTION CAMERA FOR TIME LAPSE
7. GOPRO HERO 9 BLACK - BEST ACTION CAMERA FOR TIME LAPSE
PRODUCT DETAILS:
- Video Capture Resolution: 5K UHD 2880p.
- HyperSmooth 3.0.
- Waterproof: 10m.
- 20MP Photo resolution.
- Time Warp 3.0 helps a lot of time lapse.
Features
Hands down to the most versatile GoPro 9 action camera. This is the most recent version of GoPro equipped with all the features that are necessary for time lapse. It can also be called as time lapse Go Pro. This action camera can capture crisp 20 MP time lapse photos and ensure that you have got the best out of the best. Not only that, it can shoot stunning 5k videos with 14.7 MP frame grabs which is outstanding. Now let's talk about the design.
Design
There are two things that must be checked in a timelapse camera in terms of design, they are weather sealed, and camera build quality. That said, this action camera has both. It has a front display and a rear touch screen with a zoom. It has a rugged and waterproof body that suits for outdoor projects.
Performance
The best part is you can schedule the time you want to begin your timelapse recording. For example, if you want to shoot the sunrise, you can fix the camera in a place and set the time and voila. Adding to this, you can also take advantage of the duration capture feature where you can also choose how long you want the camera to record the video. These features help you so much in shooting the best time lapse videos. Apart from this, HyperSmooth 3.0 which is the most advanced stabilization is used here. HERO 8 and HERO 9 are given exceptional night footage, so you can shoot time-lapse in low light as well.
What I liked about this CAMERA:
Objectively, the time lapse GoPro out there. No question. Hero 9 is the latest addition to GoPro’s Hero series and they went all out with it. The flagship Hero 9 seems to be a bit more vlogging oriented seeing how they offered a front-facing screen. I personally do not care for that but if you are a vlogger, you might like that. I cannot take anything away from this camera, the handled time-lapse feature is just mind-blowing and that 5k video? I love the option but even 4k still is not mainstream. One of the best values cam out there, period.
8. DRAGON TOUCH 4K ACTION CAMERA VISION 3
PRODUCT DETAILS:
When you hear the name “Dragon Touch”, you know that either this is going to be a super expensive company or a budget one. Well, if you guessed the latter, you would win. If you are on a bit of a budget, the Vision 3 action cam by Dragon Touch is potentially one of the best cameras you can get under a tight budget.
Design
In terms of design, the Vision 3 looks like the typical, action cam style and is made entirely of plastic. This camera comes with a number of accessories, one of which is its waterproof casing which takes about a second to install and makes your camera waterproof, letting it bear depths of up to 100 feet!
Performance
At an affordable price, the Vision 3 is offering you a ton of features like 4K Ultra HD video with 4X zoom and 16MP photo resolution. All of your shots, you can look at them using the 2-inch touch screen which is not the most ground-breaking screen but it does the job fairly well. You can share the photos with your smartphone using the XDV app. Overall, I am really impressed by this action cam. Being able to take 4K video, these types of time-lapse cameras can capture, loop recordings, and you can also control it via remote control. All these features are not what you expect from a “budget cam”. I have got to admit, I am a fan.
What I liked about this CAMERA:
If you are looking for a versatile yet compact camera, then this is your pick. The gopro timelapse battery life could have been better but again, considering the price point, there had to be some sacrifices. Overall, honestly, I am a fan. A great pick for beginners.
9. AKASO BRAVE 7
PRODUCT DETAILS:
The Brave 7 LE by AKASO is one ambitious camera. Now, ambitious not in the sense that it is taking insane risks by going off the grid, living in the woods or something like that. Rather, the Brave 7 LE is ambitious in the sense of just how many features it offers under that budget price tag.
For about 160 dollars, you get 4k video and not one but 2 displays! The rear screen does what you would expect the main screen to do, display items and all that your camera sees and is a touch screen, while the front screen is most useful for seeing what your camera is capturing while taking a selfie or video for example. I see this feature being extremely useful for vloggers.
Speaking of the camera, it is quite versatile. As I said, it can take 4k30fps and 2.7K 30 FPS videos and capture good looking 20MP photos. Another contributor to the quality is this camera is the improved, gimbal-like electronic image stabilization, adding to both photos and videos.
Despite the dual-screen, the Brave 7 LE somehow manages to be IPX7 water-resistant and waterproof -with the included waterproof case. With this added ruggedness, you are more comfortable in letting it sit out in the open for those awesome time lapse shots. The low-light performance on this camera is a point of concern, it is not terrible or absolutely unusable in those conditions but it is certainly a flaw in this overall perfect budget package.
BEST DEDICATED CAMERAS FOR TIME LAPSE
10. BRINNO BCC200 - BEST TIME LAPSE CAMERA
PRODUCT DETAILS:
If you are in search of the time lapse construction camera, then your search ends here. The Brinno BCC200 construction camera is strictly made for making time-lapse videos outdoors. You can take a set of photos at different intervals or shoot videos and once the recording is done, the camera automatically generates a time lapse video. So you don't have the need to edit the footage. Yes, it comes 'ready-made' which can be shared with others instantly. Now let's talk about the timelapse recorder design and performance.
Design
This brinno time lapse camera is easy to set up. You don't need any extras like wires or cables or any technical skill to install it. Also, it has a IPX4 case which means it is weather resistant and keeps your camera safe from outdoor elements all day. It has an 80-day battery life with a 360° rotating ball joint with 90° tilt allowing you to shoot for a long time and at any angle.
Performance
Using its high dynamic range video sensor this camera produces great shots with high contrast even in low light conditions. The f2.0 aspherical lens give you sharper and brighter images. You can mount it anywhere using its adjustable clamp mount that is made of industrial grade aluminium alloy. With this camera, you can also shoot 112 degree field of view.
What I liked about this CAMERA:
If you ask me what is a time lapse camera? I would just point one this construction camera. Also, the winner of “being good at one thing” is here. I say this because this brino time lapse camera is made for one thing and it does quite well. Period.
11. ATLI EON TIME LAPSE CAMERA
PRODUCT DETAILS:
This is a beginner-friendly camera that is capable of clicking full time lapse photos and videos. Usually, once the videos time-lapse you need to edit them using expensive software. But this camera eliminates everything. Since it is a dedicated camera for time-lapse you get a ready to use video which can be instantly shared on social media using the wifi.
This is the world's first camera that produces Time slice photography. Imagine getting a ready made time lapse photo. Amazing right?
Not only these, this construction camera is schedulable, gives live preview, and allows you to change the setting on the fly and has a long battery life. Recommended!
WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN THE BEST CAMERA FOR TIME LAPSE?
A time lapse video or photo is taken by capturing a lot of photos of a particular scene over a period and then assembling them to create a seamless sped-up video footage or photo. The still images can have higher resolution than the video file.
So if you are planning to invest in the best camera for time lapse, read this before buying a camera. It is essential to look for these features,
Adding to this, there are two types of time-lapse projects. They are short term and long term projects. The short term time lapse project is capturing sunrise, sunset. Meanwhile in a long project it means capturing a flower blossom or a flower turning into fruit. So that's the basics for choosing the best camera for time lapse.
CONCLUSION
That is it for this list, folks. I listed out several different types of cameras, all with the ability to take time-lapses. There are action cams, mirrorless and even a set-and-shoot camera used for outdoors and construction sites.
So, yeah, I think I did a good job at mentioning something for everyone reading. Anyways, remember to do your own research as well before making a purchase, just some free advice. Hope this article on best camera for time lapse helped, thank you for reading!
FAQ'S
Usually, time lapse rates vary from around one frame per second to one frame every few hours. 30 frames per second is good for time lapse. If it is a normal video 25 to 30 frames per second is enough.
It is a type of timer which triggers the cameras to capture a series of photos in a specified time. Though normal cameras have a timer, this one is different. It shoots pictures in intervals and which is why they are perfect for time lapse photography.
When you play a recorded video and edit it for time lapse, every 24 second are played back in one second and so the recorded scene moves 24 times faster the real scene. So when you calculate 60/24 = 2.5 minutes.
Though any point and shoot camera or a smartphone can shoot time-lapse photography and video, DSLR or mirrorless works best and it is much more easy.
