Timelapse photography has become increasingly popular in recent years as a way to capture beautiful timelapse videos. Whether you’re an amateur photographer or a professional videographer, having the right equipment is essential for creating stunning timelapse videos.
That’s why we’ve put together this review of the best timelapse cameras on the market today.
When evaluating each camera, we looked at factors such as resolution, frame rate, video quality, and other features. We also considered price and ease of use when making our selections.
After extensive research and testing, we have narrowed our list to eight top-rated models that offer exceptional performance at various price points.
Each camera was evaluated based on its ability to produce high-quality images with accurate colors and sharp details, even in low-light conditions.
We also tested for overall image stabilization capabilities so your footage will remain smooth regardless of how much movement you experience while shooting your timelapse.
Finally, we noted additional features like manual settings or built-in Wi-Fi connectivity that can enhance your creative possibilities with each device. Remember that some professional cameras require an external intervalometer to utilize the timelapse features.
Best Timelapse Cameras
1. GoPro HERO11 Black
Best Overall Timelapse Camera
The GoPro HERO11 Black is the most potent and versatile action camera on the market. It features a new image sensor, better video stabilization, and ultra-HD video capabilities.
With its waterproof design and 27MP image sensor, the GoPro HERO11 Black is perfect for capturing dynamic POV shots or creating stunning timelapse videos.
Features of the GoPro HERO11 Black
The GoPro HERO11 Black has many features, making it an ideal choice for timelapse photography. It has a 5.3K60 Ultra HD Video resolution, which allows you to capture stunningly sharp images with incredible detail.
Additionally, it has a 1/1.9″ image sensor, providing excellent low-light performance and improved color accuracy.
The camera also has built-in Wi-Fi capabilities, allowing you to easily share photos and videos with friends and family. Additionally, it has live streaming capabilities so you can broadcast your adventures in real-time.
Finally, the camera also comes with advanced stabilization technology, which ensures smooth footage even when shooting in challenging conditions.
Why is the GoPro HERO11 Black the Best Timelapse Camera?
The GoPro HERO11 Black is one of the best timelapse cameras available today due to its features and affordability.
Its 5.3K60 Ultra HD Video resolution makes it capable of capturing stunningly sharp images with incredible detail, while its 1/1.9″ image sensor provides excellent low-light performance and improved color accuracy for more vibrant colors in your photos and videos.
Additionally, its built-in Wi-Fi capabilities allow you to easily share photos and videos with friends and family, while its live streaming lets you broadcast your adventures in real-time.
Finally, its advanced stabilization technology ensures smooth footage even when shooting in challenging conditions, making it perfect for capturing dynamic POV shots or creating stunning timelapse videos without any blurring or shaking effects ruining your footage.
Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable yet powerful timelapse camera, look no further than the GoPro HERO11 Black! With its combination of features and affordability, it’s sure to be an excellent choice for anyone looking to capture unforgettable memories from their adventures.
2. COOAU Action Cam
Best Cheap Timelapse Camera
Are you looking for a timelapse camera that won’t break the bank? Look no further than the COOAU Action Cam! This affordable, high-quality action camera offers 4K 20MP video recording and Wi-Fi connectivity. It also has an external microphone, remote control, EIS stabilization, and waterproof housing.
In this review, we’ll look at all the features of the COOAU Action Cam and why it’s the best cheap timelapse camera on the market.
Features of the COOAU Action Cam
The COOAU Action Cam has features that make it great for capturing stunning time-lapses. It has a 4K 20MP image sensor that can record videos in resolutions up to 2.7K 1080p.
The camera also has a built-in Wi-Fi connection, so you can quickly transfer your footage to your computer or smartphone for editing or sharing online.
Additionally, it comes with an external microphone and remote control for easy operation from a distance.
The COOAU Action Cam also has EIS (electronic image stabilization) technology which helps reduce shake and blur when shooting videos. This makes it perfect for capturing smooth time-lapses, even when shooting from moving vehicles or other unstable surfaces.
The camera is also waterproof up to 40 meters, so you can capture underwater footage without worrying about water damage.
Why It’s the Best Cheap Timelapse Camera
The COOAU Action Cam is one of the most affordable action cameras today, making it perfect for budget-conscious photographers who want to capture stunning time-lapses without breaking the bank.
Its 4K 20MP image sensor captures beautiful images and videos with excellent detail and color accuracy, while its EIS technology ensures smooth footage even when shooting from unstable surfaces or underwater depths of up to 40 meters.
Additionally, its built-in Wi-Fi connection makes it easy to transfer footage to your computer or smartphone for editing or sharing online quickly and easily.
Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable action camera that can capture stunning time-lapses without breaking the bank, look no further than the COOAU Action Cam.
With its 4K 20MP image sensor, EIS technology, waterproof housing, and built-in Wi-Fi connection, this budget-friendly action cam is perfect for capturing amazing time-lapses without spending too much money.
3. Sony A7R V
Best Timelapse Camera for Astrophotography
The Sony A7R V is the perfect camera for professional photographers looking to capture stunning timelapse astrophotography. With its powerful resolution, 8K video recording capabilities, and impressive autofocus system, the Sony A7R V is an ideal choice for capturing breathtaking night sky images.
Resolution and Image Quality
The Sony A7R V has a 42.4-megapixel full-frame sensor that captures stunningly detailed images with excellent dynamic range. This makes it perfect for capturing the intricate details of galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters in the night sky.
It also has a 15-stop dynamic range which allows you to capture bright stars and faint nebulae in one shot without worrying about overexposure or underexposure.
Autofocus System
The Sony A7R V’s autofocus system is high-speed and accurate, making it easy to track stars as they move across the night sky. It also features Eye AF technology which can detect eyes in low light conditions and lock focus on them quickly and accurately. This makes it great for capturing portraits of people against a starry backdrop.
Video Recording Capabilities
The Sony A7R V can record 8K footage up to 10-bit 4:2:0 and 4K 10-bit 4:2:2 using XAVC-HS codecs. This makes it great for creating time-lapses of the night sky or shooting high-quality videos of celestial events such as meteor showers or eclipses.
In conclusion, the Sony A7R V is our favorite camera for professionals specializing in outdoor astrophotography. Its powerful resolution, fast autofocus system, and impressive video recording capabilities make it an ideal choice for capturing stunning night sky images.
4. Brinno TLC200 Pro
Best Camera for Construction Timelapse
Timelapse photography has become a crucial tool in the construction industry. With the ability to capture a construction project from start to finish, timelapse cameras allow project managers, engineers, and architects to monitor progress and identify any potential issues that may arise along the way.
So, if you are looking for the best timelapse camera for construction, look no further than the Brinno TLC200 Pro.
Advanced Features
The Brinno TLC200 Pro has several advanced features that stand out from other timelapse cameras on the market. The camera offers an impressive 1.3-megapixel sensor that captures stunning images in high definition. It also has a wide-angle lens that can capture a broad field of view, allowing you to monitor large construction projects effectively.
Long Battery Life
One of the most critical features of an excellent timelapse camera that most people overlook is battery life. With a long-lasting battery, you can capture continuous footage without worrying about running out of power. The Brinno TLC200 Pro has an impressive battery life of up to 45 days, which makes it ideal for long-term construction projects.
Weather Resistant
Construction sites are only sometimes kind to electronics, and for productivity to continue, the camera may have to stay on-site during extreme weather conditions.
The Brinno TLC200 Pro has durable weather-resistant housing that protects the camera against harsh weather conditions. You can rest easy knowing that your camera will keep working regardless of the weather conditions.
Easy to Use
The Brinno TLC200 Pro is an incredibly user-friendly camera. It comes with a straightforward design and easy-to-use navigation menus, making it easy to set up and take photos.
The camera also has a built-in screen, allowing you to preview footage and adjust settings without needing an additional device.
Enhanced Editing
The Brinno TLC200 Pro also has advanced editing software that allows you to customize your timelapse videos easily. The software allows you to adjust playback speed, add music, and create stunning time-lapse videos to share with clients or post on social media.
The Brinno TLC200 Pro is, without a doubt, the ultimate timelapse camera for construction projects. With advanced features, a long battery life, weather resistance, and enhanced editing capabilities, this camera is the perfect tool for capturing your construction site’s progress from start to finish.
Whether you are a project manager or an architect, the Brinno TLC200 Pro is the perfect investment for your next construction project.
5. BLAZVIDEO Trail Cam
Best Timelapse Trail Camera
The BlazeVideo Game Camera and Deer Hunting Trail Cam is the perfect solution for capturing high-quality images and videos of wildlife and backyard activity.
With 24MP 1296P H.264 video, no glow night vision, 0.1s trigger motion-activated waterproofing, and password protection for photos and videos, this camera is the ultimate in trail timelapse photography.
Features
The BlazeVideo Game Camera has various features that make it the best trail timelapse camera on the market. It has a 24MP 1296P H.264 video resolution that captures stunning images with vivid colors and sharp details.
The no-glow night vision allows you to capture images even in low-light conditions without alerting animals or intruders to your presence. The 0.1s trigger motion-activated waterproofing ensures you never miss a shot due to weather conditions or unexpected movements from animals or people in the area.
Finally, the password protection feature keeps your photos and videos safe from unauthorized access.
Durability
The BlazeVideo Game Camera is built to last with its durable construction and IP66 waterproof rating. This means it can withstand rain, snow, dust, dirt, and other elements without damaging its internal components or exterior casing.
Additionally, its sturdy design prevents it from being damaged by accidental drops or falls while out in the field.
Ease of Use
The BlazeVideo Game Camera is straightforward to use thanks to its intuitive user interface and simple setup process. All you need to do is mount it on a tree or post using the included mounting hardware, turn it on, set up your desired settings via the menu system on the LCD screen, then start shooting.
The camera also has an app for iOS and Android devices, so you can quickly view your photos and videos remotely from anywhere in the world as long as you have an internet connection.
Value for Money
Compared to other trail timelapse cameras on the market today, the BlazeVideo Game Camera offers excellent value for money, given its features and durability.
It’s priced competitively, which makes it an affordable option for anyone looking for a reliable trail timelapse camera without breaking their budget.
Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality trail timelapse camera that won’t break your budget, look no further than the BlazeVideo Game Camera & Deer Hunting Trail Cam.
With its 24MP 1296P H 264 video resolution, no glow night vision capabilities, 0 1s trigger motion activated waterproofing technology, password protection feature, durable construction with IP66 waterproof rating, and easy setup process, this camera is sure to meet all of your needs when it comes to capturing stunning images of wildlife or backyard activity.
6. Canon EOS R10
Best Timelapse Camera for Filming Plants Grow
Related: Best Lenses for Canon R10
The Canon EOS R10 is a powerful and versatile mirrorless camera that captures the beauty of plants growing over time. With its APS-C sensor, fast shooting speeds, excellent autofocus, and 4K/60p video recording capabilities, the R10 is ideal for capturing stunning timelapse videos of plants in motion.
Size and Weight
One of the most impressive features of the Canon EOS R10 is its size and weight. At just 122.5 x 87.8 x 83.4mm and 429g, it’s one of the smallest and lightest cameras on the market today. This makes it easy to carry around with you when you’re out in nature filming your plant growth time-lapses.
Autofocus System
The Canon EOS R10 also boasts an impressive autofocus system that easily recognizes and tracks subjects. This makes capturing sharp images of plants as they grow over time more effortless than ever without manually adjusting focus settings every few seconds or minutes.
Shooting Speeds
The Canon EOS R10 can shoot up to 23 frames per second at full 24 MP resolution with full tracking autofocus and autoexposure. This makes it perfect for capturing high-quality timelapse videos of plants in motion without blurring or distortion caused by slow shutter speeds or incorrect exposure settings.
Image Quality
In practical use, the EOS R10 is a snappy, responsive camera that consistently delivers fine images. It starts almost the moment you flick the power switch, so you don’t have to wait around while your camera boots up before starting your timelapse project.
The image quality is also excellent thanks to its 24MP APS-C sensor, which captures plenty of detail even in low light conditions – perfect for capturing those beautiful night shots of plants growing under starry skies!
If you’re looking for a powerful yet compact camera that can easily handle all your plant growth timelapse needs, look no further than the Canon EOS R10! Its small size and lightweight design make it easy to carry around wherever you go. Its fast shooting speeds and excellent autofocus system ensure you’ll always get sharp images no matter what lighting conditions you’re shooting in.
7. Nikon Z8
Best Mirrorless Timelapse Camera
The Nikon Z8 is a compact hybrid mirrorless camera perfect for
videos and still images. It features a 45.7MP FX-Format Stacked CMOS Sensor, Lightweight Design, and is 30% Smaller than the Z9. The Nikon Z 8 is equipped with the power of the Nikon Z 9 in a more petite body, making it an ideal choice for those who want to take their photography to the next level without sacrificing portability.
Features
The Nikon Z8 boasts a 45.7MP stacked CMOS sensor and Expeed 7 image processor that produces impressive photos. It has an ISO range of 32-102400, 14fps continuous shooting with AF/AE tracking, and 4K UHD video recording at up to 60p. Additionally, it has 5-axis in-body image stabilization and a 3.2″ 2.1m-dot touchscreen LCD monitor for easy operation.
Performance
The Nikon Z8 offers excellent performance with its powerful combination of features and technology. The 45-megapixel full-frame sensor captures stunning detail in stills and videos, while the EXPEED 7 image processor ensures fast performance with minimal noise and artifacts.
The 5-axis in-body image stabilization helps reduce camera shake when shooting handheld or using long exposures, while the 3.2″ touchscreen LCD monitor makes navigating menus and settings more accessible.
Design
The design of the Nikon Z8 is sleek yet sturdy, making it comfortable to hold even during long shoots or extended periods of use. The lightweight body makes it easy to carry around without feeling weighed down, while the weather sealing ensures that your camera will be protected from dust, moisture, and other elements when shooting outdoors or in challenging environments.
Additionally, the intuitive controls make it easy to adjust settings quickly without having to dive into complex menus or settings screens whenever you want to make a change.
Overall, the Nikon Z8 is an impressive hybrid mirrorless camera with excellent performance at an affordable price point. Its potent combination of features makes it ideal for both stills and video capture, while its lightweight design makes it perfect for those who need portability without sacrificing quality or performance.
If you’re looking for a great mirrorless timelapse camera that won’t break your budget but will still deliver stunning results every time you press the shutter button, look no further than the Nikon Z8.
8. Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
Best Timelapse DSLR
The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is a professional-grade digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) camera that is perfect for shooting action photos and time-lapses. It features a 30.4 Megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor, DIGIC 6+ Image Processor, 3.2″ 1.62m-Dot Touchscreen LCD Monitor, DCI 4K Video at 30 fps, 8.8MP Still Grab, and more.
With its versatile shooting capabilities in nearly any light, high-resolution stills, and 4K video files with incredible clarity and detail, the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is the best DSLR timelapse camera on the market today.
Features
The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV has an impressive array of features, making it the ideal choice for shooting time lapses. Its 30.4 Megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor allows for versatile shooting in nearly any light, with an ISO range of 100–32000 that can be expanded to 50–102400 (equivalent ISO).
The DIGIC 6+ Image Processor ensures fast performance and excellent image quality even in low light conditions, while the 3.2″ 1.62m-Dot Touchscreen LCD Monitor makes it easy to review images and videos quickly and accurately without having to take your eye away from the viewfinder.
Additionally, the DCI 4K Video at 30 fps; 8.8MP Still Grab feature allows you to easily capture stunningly detailed footage, while the seven frames per second burst mode ensure you never miss a moment of action when capturing your time-lapses.
Benefits
The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV offers many benefits over other DSLR cameras regarding shooting time lapses. Its high-resolution stills and 4K video files provide incredible clarity and detail that will bring your images to life like never before, while its versatile shooting capabilities allow you to capture stunning shots in nearly any light condition imaginable.
Additionally, its fast performance and excellent image quality ensure you take advantage of every moment of action when capturing your time-lapses, while its seven frames per second burst mode allow you to capture multiple shots in quick succession without missing a beat.
The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is an impressive DSLR camera that offers many features and benefits perfect for shooting time-lapses such as high-resolution stills and 4K video files with incredible clarity and detail, versatile shooting capabilities in nearly any light condition imaginable, fast performance, and excellent image quality even in low light conditions, plus much more.
If you’re looking for the best DSLR timelapse camera on the market today, look no further than the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV.
9. Sony A7s III
Best 4K Timelapse Camera
The Sony Alpha a7S III Mirrorless Digital Camera is the latest in a long line of high-end cameras from Sony. It has been designed with professional photographers and videographers in mind, offering an impressive array of features that make it the perfect choice for shooting 4K time-lapses.
Sensor Resolution and Image Quality
The Sony A7S III features an all-new 12.1MP backside-illuminated full-frame sensor with twice the readout speed for ultra-clean low-light images up to ISO 409,600 with 15+ stops of dynamic range. This means you can capture stunningly detailed images even in challenging lighting conditions.
The camera’s 35.6 x 23.8 mm (Full-Frame) CMOS sensor provides excellent image quality and color accuracy, allowing you to create beautiful time-lapses that look great on any screen size.
Autofocus System and Video Capabilities
The A7S III also includes a fast Hybrid AF system with 759 phase-detection AF points covering 92% of the image sensor. This makes it easy to keep your subjects in focus when shooting videos or stills, ensuring that your time-lapses are always sharp and clear.
Additionally, the camera can record movies with higher image quality than XAVC S movies but with the same data volume, making it ideal for creating cinematic 4K time-lapses.
Design and Usability
The Sony A7S III is also incredibly user-friendly thanks to its intuitive menu system and LCD display. This makes it easy to quickly adjust settings while shooting or review footage afterward without fumbling around trying to find what you’re looking for.
Additionally, the camera’s compact size makes it easy to take on location without sacrificing performance or image quality.
Overall, the Sony A7S III is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality 4K timelapse camera that offers exceptional image quality and usability at an affordable price.
Whether you’re a professional photographer or just starting out in timelapse photography, this camera will help you capture stunning visuals that will stand out from the crowd.
10. Insta360 X3
Best 360 Timelapse Camera
The Insta360 X3 is the perfect camera for capturing stunning 360-degree timelapse footage. It features a powerful 4K sensor, 8x slow motion, and advanced stabilization technology to ensure smooth, professional-looking results.
With its intuitive design and easy-to-use interface, the Insta360 X3 makes it simple to capture amazing time-lapse videos in any environment.
Features of the Insta360 X3
The Insta360 X3 has some impressive features that stand out from other 360 cameras on the market. It has an impressive 4K resolution, allowing you to capture stunningly detailed images and videos.
Additionally, it features 8x slow motion capabilities, so you can easily capture beautiful time lapses.
The camera also comes with advanced stabilization technology, ensuring your footage is always professional-looking.
Finally, the camera’s intuitive design makes it easy to use and navigate through all of its features.
Benefits of Using the Insta360 X3
The Insta360 X3 offers several benefits for capturing stunning timelapse footage with a 360 camera:
- Its 4K resolution lets you capture incredibly detailed images and videos that impress viewers.
- Its 8x slow-motion capabilities make it easy to create beautiful time lapses without worrying about shaky or distorted footage.
- Its advanced stabilization technology ensures that your footage will always look smooth and professional no matter what environment you’re shooting in.
Why You Should Choose the Insta360 X3
If you’re looking for a reliable 360 camera to capture stunning timelapse footage, look no further than the Insta360 X3. Its powerful 4K sensor lets you capture incredibly detailed images and videos, while its 8x slow motion capabilities make creating beautiful time lapses a breeze.
Additionally, its advanced stabilization technology ensures that your footage will always look smooth and professional no matter what environment you’re shooting in. All these features combined make the Insta360 X3 one of the best options for capturing amazing timelapse footage with a 360 camera.
How to Make Timelapse Video from Photos?
Creating a captivating time-lapse video from photos is an art form that requires patience, practice, and the right equipment. Time-lapse videography involves taking a series of still images over a while and then stitching them together to create a video.
The first step in creating a compelling time-lapse video is selecting the right camera and settings. A DSLR camera with manual settings is ideal for this type of photography, as it allows you to adjust the shutter speed, aperture, ISO, and white balance. It’s essential to use a tripod or other stable surface to ensure continuity in the sequence of photos.
Once you have your camera set up, it’s time to select a suitable location with interesting subjects and a controlled environment. This will help ensure that your final product looks professional and captures the beauty of your chosen subject matter.
After shooting your photos, you’ll need to process them by organizing them into folders, adjusting the settings (if necessary), editing the images (if desired), and adding music, graphics, or transitions (if desired).
There are many software programs available that can help you stitch together timelapse photos into videos. Some popular options include Adobe Lightroom Classic CC, Adobe Premiere Pro CC, and Apple iMovie.
Finally, once you have created your time-lapse video, there are several tips and tricks for successfully posting it on various social media channels. It would help to consider what platforms best suit your content and target audience before posting it online. Additionally, include relevant hashtags so that more people can find your work!
Creating stunning time-lapse videos from photos is not only rewarding but also fun! With practice and patience, anyone can learn how to make captivating time-lapses that will wow their viewers.
Conclusion
When it comes to finding the right timelapse camera, many options exist. Ultimately, it depends on your budget and what you need from your camera for your project.
We hope this list review has helped narrow down some of the best cameras available in each price range so that you can find one that fits your needs and budget.
Whether you’re looking for something high-end or more affordable, we’ve got an option for everyone here! With all these great choices at hand, there is no excuse not to capture stunning timelapse footage with ease. So get out there and start shooting today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is GoPro good for timelapse?
GoPro cameras are great for creating time-lapse videos. You can capture stunning time-lapse footage with the correct settings and gear with your GoPro. To get started, press the top SHUTTER button to begin recording. The red LEDs will blink to indicate that the camera is capturing footage, and the time counter on the screen will show how much time has elapsed.
How long can a GoPro do a timelapse?
A GoPro can do a timelapse for up to 24 hours. To shoot a long time-lapse with a GoPro HERO4, you’ll need to set the camera’s interval timer and ensure it has enough power and memory. The number of photos taken will depend on your settings, but it’s possible to take thousands of photos in one session.