Recently, GoPro introduced the impressive GoPro Helmet HERO Wide to its wide lens camera family of products, which also includes the Wide HERO, the Motorsports HERO Wide, and the Surf HERO. Priced affordably at $189, the new Helmet HERO Wide produces unique video footage using a 170-degree fisheye lens, while the increased still photo resolution (from 3 megapixels to 5 megapixels) provides crisper, brighter pictures. With outstanding products and a broad range of mounting options, the HERO Wide series provides a great value for wearable video enthusiasts.

Highlights of the GoPro Helmet HERO Wide:

• 512 x 384 television quality resolution
• 30 frames per second
• Super wide angle, 170 degree field of view
• Supports NTSC and PAL formats for video playback on television
• Waterproof to 100 ft
• Take photos in single, burst, and timed modes.
• 5 megapixel resolution for still photos
• Small LCD screen displaying battery, modes, and status
• Automatic white balance
• Removable SD card storage (up to 2GB SD cards)
• RCA cable to television compatibility
• USB cable to computer compatibility
• AAA battery powered
• 4 different mounting bases
• Waterproof and impact resistant case

• What You Get
• The Helmet HERO Wide
  • Pros
  • Cons
• Helmet HERO Wide Documentation
• Codec Settings
• Sample Video Clips, RAW and Unaltered
• Sample Video Frame Grabs
• Recording Capacity
• Battery Time
• Warranty and Support
• Software
• Summary and Recommendation
• Pricing
• About HelmetCameraCentral.com
• Review Change Log

The  GoPro Helmet HERO Wide comes with:

• 5 Megapixel Helmet HERO Wide Camera with 170 degree wide angle lens
• 1 Shockproof/waterproof quick-release housing
• 1 Headlamp-style head strap
• 1 Vented helmet strap
• 2 Curved 3M™ adhesive mounts
• 2 Flat 3M™ adhesive mounts
• 1 Three-way pivoting side arm assembly
• 2 Quick-release buckles
• 1 USB/RCA combo cable
• 1-Year warranty

Pros

The GoPro Helmet HERO Wide camera's compact, cable-free design encourages new filming opportunities through creative mounting locations that are unhindered by proximity to the user, such as the stern of a 15-foot sea kayak, the nose of a long-board surfboard, the wheel well of a stock car, or the front fender of a motorcross bike. Waterproof to 100 feet, the Helmet HERO Wide can even scuba dive.

The GoPro Helmet HERO Wide camera provides a wearable video system that allows users to capture the most sought-after shots, regardless of location.

Mounting Options

The Helmet HERO Wide comes impressively equipped with multiple hardware mounting options:

1. Headband mount: No bulkier or heavier than a high-powered headlamp, this strap configuration keeps the camera firmly attached to the user's forehead for more accurate video capture. The sturdy headband mount allows users to quickly and easily remove the unit to check its status, change menu options, or store it for later use. The mount can even be worn outside of some helmets, especially those designed to accept headlamps. Although it is not as dignified as a lipstick camera, the headband mount makes up in usability what it lacks in style.

2. Helmet vent-hole strap mount: For activities that warrant a helmet with air ventilation holes, this non-adhesive mount is an easy method for attaching the camera to helmet surfaces. Furthermore, it is easily transferrable to a different set of ventilation holes on the same helmet or to a different helmet entirely. It has the benefit of being an adhesive-less and easy way to attach the camera to the helmet surface, as well as being easily transferable to a different set of vent holes or to a different helmet. Using vent holes located in the front of the helmet has the advantage of keeping the camera low profile and safe from clothes lines, tree branches, and other yard dangers during the occasional wipeout. The vent-hole strap mount provides the least risk of the camera being ripped from the mount. The straps are solid, yet there is enough slippage and flex to absorb some impact when necessary.

3. Base mount with single pivot: This mount provides numerous camera mounting options courtesy of the well-built pivot mechanism, which ensures that your footage will be captured in the angle that you desire. After sticking the base to a smooth surface with the provided adhesive patches, sliding the quick release camera mount onto the base, and pivoting the camera to the desired field of view, simply tighten the knob (by hand or using the recessed screw head improved strength).

4. Base mount with double pivot: When a helmet isn't the ideal mount to capture the best footage, the double pivot mount is useful for the side of a bike, car, four-wheeler, or similar places. The second pivot simply returns the camera to a horizontal position, while the camera's menu settings give users the option to rotate images 180 degrees or 90 degrees.

In addition to these mounting options, users should also take advantage of other mounts from GoPro, including handlebar/seatpost, chest harness, roll bar, and surfboard mounts.

Usability

The Helmet HERO Wide scores high in overall usability. It has a simple one-page manual for quick reference or easy (partial) memorization. The two-button configuration is ideal for adjusting settings or using different modes, such as video, triple shot sequence, photo every five seconds (up to 700 photos on a 2 GB SD card), and self-timer photography, all of which are displayed on the unit's compact LCD screen. A single camera cord is used as an A/V cable connector (NTSC and PAL), as well as a USB connector to a computer. Both Mac and Windows users can seamlessly upload and edit files. The open design of the camera and two-button configuration make it simple to record. Additionally, two different flashing LEDs display recording status on both sides of the camera.

The Case

The camera's waterproof case (up to 100 feet) is one its most impressive features. Inside the case, the camera is durable enough to be placed on a keychain, attached to a backpack, or clipped to a climbing harness, making it easily accessible for capturing great footage. The 100-foot waterproof rating combined with the graceful movements of snorkeling or scuba diving make it ideal for underwater pictures or videos.

Super Small

Outside of its case, the Helmet HERO Wide is exceptionally small. In fact, the camera can fit easily inside a closed fist, yet it can hold approximtely an hour of video footage.

Cons

While the Helmet HERO Wide is a strong, versatile camera, there are some drawbacks that users should keep in mind. One drawback centers on the video quality, which is not adequate for producing high-quality professional videos. However, the quality is perfect for the Web or standard television viewing.

Another significant problem with the camera is its short battery life. During testing, the Helmet HERO Wide only provided about two hours of recording time using NiMH rechargeable batteries and three hours using lithium batteries. Alkaline batteries produced even shorter recording times.

Many users have also found the upside-down LCD screen cumbersome. It should be noted that the design was intended to benefit users viewing the screen while upside-down. The camera also does not include a video monitor for reviewing footage, thus footage can only be reviewed using a video monitor, such as a computer.

Angle reference marks on the camera would be a useful addition to the camera because it would allow users to switch angles for different applications.

To view the instruction manual for the GoPro Helmet HERO Wide, click here.

The basic codec settings for the GoPro Helmet HERO Wide are as follows:

Video: MJPEG, 30 fps, saved as .AVI file

Audio: 8kHz, mono

Here are a few sample videos that have been uploaded and compressed through Vimeo and are intended to give you a feel for the ultra-wide field of view and overall video quality.

The GoPro Helmet HERO Wide has removable SD card storage for up to 2GB SD cards, which allows users to record up to 56 minutes of video or capture up to 700 photos.

The GoPro Helmet HERO Wide camera requires 2 AAA batteries. For best results, the manufacturer strongly recommends lithium batteries, which provide up to three hours of battery life. Using NiMH batteries, users can record up to two hours.

GoPro provides a one-year manufacturer's warranty on the device. Returns are only accepted for defective or unopened packages.

Helmet Camera Central is here to assist with any issues that may arise with any products that have been purchased from us.

A software bundle is not available with the GoPro Helmet HERO Wide.

With the new wide angle lens and numerous mounting options, the GoPro Digital Helmet HERO Wide is designed to meet the needs of consumers searching for a quality camera at a great price. The waterproof rating of 100 feet makes this an ideal unit for scuba diving, kayaking, and surfing. The durable bomber case provides ample protection from the elements to ensure the longevity of the camera.

Helmet Camera Central recommends this unit to cost conscious consumers looking for a sturdy, reliable helmet camera for capturing events and posting them on the Web. This unit is not recommended for a videographer or consumers looking for production equipment to produce DVD quality video.

Check current GoPro pricing and availability

(more...)

(more...)

NOTE: As of 2010 Epic has released a new HD version of their cam, it's a great helmet cam and we definitely recommend it. You can check out the product page and purchase it here. We should have a full review up shortly.

Let's welcome yet another player to the consumer wearable camcorder marketplace. The EPIC Action Sports Camera from StealthCam is an entry level helmet camera that directly competes with the GoPro Hero and the Oregon Scientific ATC Series. The form factor is similar to the ATC2K series, but differs in that a waterproof housing is available. There are 3 mounts included standard with the EPIC: A waterproof housing (no depth rating), Strap Mount (helmets, etc), and a Shock Resistant Saddle. The retail price is $149.99. Overall this is an inexpensive but fun helmet cam mostly targeted at very entry level videographers and YouTube'ers.

The video frame size is 640 x 480 and the still shot mode claims 5.0MP. The product manual claims 30 frames per second, but the sample videos on their site shows what appears to be a variable frame rate. The EPIC Stealth Camera uses a CMOS sensor and most likely does not perform well in low light situations. The manual states a Camera aperture of 2.8mm- which is not considered wide angle, probably comes in around 48 degree field of view. No mention of the video codec being used to compress and deliver the video. The audio on the sample videos is audible and quality is ok. The unit does have a internal clock that can be set with the 2 buttons, but the manual notes that when batteries are removed/changed that the clock will reset itself. The unit connects to PC's and MAC's via standard USB connections to transfer video, or the standard SD memory card the unit uses can be removed and inserted into a SD card reader. The unit takes AAA batteries, and reported runtimes are around 1 hour on a fresh set.

(more...)

The HC-1, sold exclusively by helmetcamera.com, is a helmet camera system pieced together from analog and digital components. The HC-2 system is exactly the same as the HC-1, except that a waterproof box is included, along with a slim rechargeable camera battery that fits in the box. All in all, it's a heap of wires and batteries, with lackluster video quality. The included DVR is a typical generic digital recorder, similar to the Archos AV 500, which was not designed for rugged wearable video applications. Rather, it is a basic handheld digital recorder, which can function completely on its own. What helmetcamera.com has done is package this general-purpose camcorder along with a lipstick camera kit, necessary cables, a memory card, and power options. The external camera plugs into the recorder's auxiliary input, causing the integrated camera to be bypassed. Keep reading, as we share our thoughts on this product offering.

(more...)

The VholdR, made by Twenty20, is a great all-in-one helmet camera; very simple with a user friendly design. Most importantly, the video footage I took while skiing and snowmobiling looked great! The VholdR is an All-In-One system, and provides some significant advantages over typical "all-in-one" or "wireless" systems: it's super light, and it has laser pointers that give the user an idea as to what they are capturing in the picture frame. Last but not least, the price is right. At $279.99 (with free shipping) the VholdR is an affordable system that functions great! Twenty20 VholdR Helmet Camera: it looks cool, and it is cool. It should also be mentioned that Twenty20 has been doing a great job at customer service. (more...)

Well, here it is, the holy grail of the helmet cam world (for now) -The POV.1 from VIO. We have been waiting for the POV.1 since the inception of wearable video. The POV.1 is a fully integrated, fully digital, DVD quality helmet cam system. We have a POV.1 in-house, and are so impressed with this system we have moved it to the top of our recommended helmet cam list, and to our inventory over at the The Shop @ Helmet Camera Central. Also, based on our hands-on review of the POV.1, it has met most of the specifications for our dream helmet cam system.

VIO has invested quite a bit of time and money into designing this product from the ground up, and it shows. A lot of thought must have went into the hundreds of design decisions behind this unit. So far there seems to be good reason behind each issue I have with the unit. Keep reading as I discuss usability, pricing, quality, the good and the bad. Fast forward to the end for a deal on the POV.1 as well!

Some highlights of the Viosport (VIO) POV.1:

• The whole system is waterproof to 1m (3ft)
• Built in LCD screen on recording unit to view live video and review video
• 98 Field of View Wide Angle Lens with Infinite Focus
• DivX MPEG4 AVI Compression, 1GB at 720x480@30fps = 40 Minutes
• 24P and 30P Progressive video ready, up to 720x480
• SDHC card storage up to 8GB (6 Hours), USB 2.0 connectivity, and Analog video/audio output
• No digital to analog conversion - digital from camera to compression
• Wireless remote - start/stop record and nice TAG feature
• 4 AA batteries powers the recording unit and camera
• 1 cable from recording unit to camera
• Waterproof in-line microphone integrated into camera cable
• Lightweight (About 1 lb (375 grams) with batteries and camera) and power efficient
• Includes POV Manager software to quickly edit and post to web

(more...)

When I review helmet cam systems I generally look at the big picture - which boils down to usability, reliability, and performance. Xtreme Recall excels in all of these areas. Some highlights: One battery to power camcorder and helmet camera, Right-Angle Sony 10-Pin AV Connectors, Durable & Waterproof cable connects, Fog Proof Cameras, great microphones, and a killer waterproof LANC remote. If you are considering purchasing a helmet cam setup, please read on....

(more...)

Here's a new helmet cam entry from BlackEye - the BlackEye Head and Helmet Cam. The basic jist of this product is their unique mounting setup. Instead of a top mount or side mount, the BlackEye head cam uses a unique shorty camera that mounts right in the center of your helmet, just above your eyes - or it is simply worn like a headband in the same location. This product is being marketed towards bikers, climbers, etc. Click below to read more...

(more...)

Here's a promising find from UK based Second Sight Surveillance Ltd - the DV Pro Head Cam (Double Vision Pro) (Helmet camera). Thanks for the heads up Engadget. I currently have a request for more info in the works. Until then here is what I have gathered: Designed for police/fire/etc, Custom DVR solution with 30GB (upto 80GB) hard drive, 2-46 hours of recording, 4 hour Lithium Ion based battery with integrated power management, No USB/Firewire - it uses a IDE based hot swap drive chassis approach, remote hand held LCD monitor, 3-4 different camera choices ranging from low cost entry level quality to higher end color with night illumination, and a noise cancelling microphone.

(more...)

Warmer, warmer, warm enough? Version 2 for the ATC series. It's good to see that Oregon Scientific came right back with a new and improved ATC model, the ATC-2000. It seems they listened to ATC-1000 users and tried their best to get it right in round 2. So did they?
For starters, the ATC2K helmet cam is now capturing at 30 fps! This is huge. Resolution is still 640x480 (a 720x480 option would be nice.) Water-resistant to 10 feet. USB 2.0. Slight battery change (for the better). Overall an excellent 2.0 release!
The price is retail for $119.99, but can be found @ HCC for $79.95. This is a great price point. Read on for more!

(more...)

The defacto "helmet cam" systems for the last 10 years have consisted of simple security camera style lipstick cameras attached to a helmet with wires sprouting forth like vines in a jungle. The Viosport system has not eliminated the all the wires, but it has significantly raised the bar for lipstick style camera setups.

The Adventure Cam 3 Helmet Cam camera is Viosport's (now VIO) high-end external analog helmet camera. With a shiny silver housing, 520 lines of resolution, spiral stretch cable, quick release connections, and integrated microphone the Viosport Adventure Cam 3 represents a highly refined version of the typical mass produced lipstick style security cameras. Keep in mind that this is NOT a fully integrated system - this means there is an external battery pack with wires and the the camera itself must be attached to a recording device such as a camcorder (not included) with external video inputs. The Adventure Cam 3 helmet cam comes with the camera, AA battery pack, necesary A/V cables, a camera mount, and a tool kit. The cost: $279.95. Read on for the rest of the review of the Viosport Adventure Cam 3 Helmet Cam system.
(more...)

Archos enters the Helmet Cam marketplace with a nicely integrated video helmet cam system, the AV 500 Digital Mini Cam. It appears they have taken the standard AV DVR units and packaged it with a somewhat integrated external helmet cam camera. I'm going to focus on the helmet cam aspect of this package, so I won't get into all of the other fun stuff the AV 500 is capable of. There are some nice features, but in the end the MPEG-4 SP recording format robs the user of the DVD quality video fidelity. Read on for the full scoop. (more...)

First round here we go again. We have to start somewhere right? The ATC-1000 from Oregon Scientific is a entry-level helmet camera that is 100% solid state, totally integrated, and no wires. These are great features, but the stats that matter are frame rate, resolution, and storage. That would 15fps, 640x480, and 32mb (upgradeable to 1GB via SD). Oregon Scientific has a flashy marketing site for the ATC-1000 Helmet Camera which would lead one to believe it's designed for all things extreme. On the other side of the marketing house, the corporate site has it listed under the "Youth" category, which is really what this product is currently spec'd for. The digitalgypsy VFX blog purchased one and lays it out pretty straight - not quite ready for real extreme sports. Engadget received a tip from an Oregon Scientific rep that a future revision will be running at 30fps, which would be great but NTSC 720 x 480 would be nice as well. No word on the compression codec or overall video fidelity (aka the LCD or CMOS censor used to capture). HCC.com's recommendation = Great for kids, leave it at home on the big day. It's important to note that this is a great effort from large corporations to fill a dire need in the niche market of helmet cameras and wearable video. Keep up the good work!

Tony Hawk HelmetCam

This little integrated, solid state helmetcam system has been out for about 6 months now. This is another example of a Round 1 Helmet Camera system. The price for the Tony Hawk HelmetCam from Digital Blue is definitely good for a Round 1 entry. The specs are geared towards the entry-level / teen market: 15 fps, 320x240 "untethered" resolution, and 32mb of storage. This is really an innovative approach - very tightly integrated. The HCC.com recommendation? Give this to your kid, and wait for a beefier version with NTSC resolution and 30fps. However, read on for more info about the system

(more...)