10 Best Cheap Time Lapse Camera (2024 Update)

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Time-lapse photography is an exciting way to capture the passage of time by taking a sequence of photos and playing them back at a faster rate. It's an excellent way to create stunning visuals that can be used in documentaries, music videos, and other creative projects. However, finding an affordable time-lapse camera can be challenging, especially if you're on a tight budget.

If you're looking for a cheap time-lapse camera, here are some key points you should consider before making a purchase:

1. Image quality: Even if you're on a budget, you don't want to compromise on image quality. Look for cameras that can capture high-quality images with good resolution and color accuracy.

2. Interval settings: The interval setting determines how frequently the camera takes photos. Look for cameras with a wide range of interval settings to give you more flexibility in your time-lapse projects.

3. Battery life: Time-lapse projects can take hours, if not days, to complete. Therefore, it's essential to have a camera with an extended battery life.

4. Ease of use: You don't want a camera that's too complicated to use, especially if you're new to time-lapse photography. Look for cameras that come with easy-to-use interfaces and intuitive controls.

5. Price: Of course, price is a crucial factor when looking for a cheap time-lapse camera. Set a budget and look for cameras that offer the best value for your money.

In conclusion, finding a cheap time-lapse camera that meets your needs can be a challenge, but by considering the above key points, you can make an informed decision and find a camera that's right for you.

10 Best Cheap Time Lapse Camera

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1. The Brinno Bcc200 Trio Bundle Pack Features A Tlc200 Pro Camera With A 42-Day Battery Life, Clamp, And Water-Resistant Case For Construction And Outdoor Security Time Lapse Photography. It Boasts 720p Video Quality.

The Brinno BCC200 Construction & Outdoor Security Time Lapse Camera for Plants Trio Bundle Pack is a superior product that offers an extended battery life of up to 80 days using only 4AA batteries. This makes it perfect for capturing time-lapse videos of events, projects or construction sites, providing complete coverage over an extended period.

The quality and reliability of the time-lapse video captured with the Brinno BCC200 is superior. It captures stunning 720p HDR video and features a 1.3MP sensor and interchangeable CS mount that allows for many options, including stop-motion and still photography. This ensures that nothing is missed, and the final product is of the highest quality possible.

The Brinno BCC200 is easy to set up and use. The time-lapse function is automatic and ready to use, and the real-time-lapse video is not a series of pictures. Editing the finished video is a snap, and the video is ready to go in an easy-to-read video file format that works with any editing software.

The Brinno BCC200 is also safe for outdoor use. It includes an ATH120 with an IPX4 weather-resistant rating that allows it to be used year-round. The waterproof casing and rugged construction make it the perfect camera for any outdoor project.

The bundle pack includes a weather-resistant housing case that ensures the gear is protected, an industrial-grade clamp for easy mounting anywhere, a rubber strap for easy carrying, a 4GB SD card, 4 AA batteries, and a user manual, so users can start using their gear right away.

In summary, the Brinno BCC200 Construction & Outdoor Security Time Lapse Camera for Plants Trio Bundle Pack offers superior quality and reliability, an extended battery life, easy setup and use, and is safe for outdoor use. It is the perfect camera for any project that requires time-lapse video capture.

2. Dsoon Time Lapse Camera: 1080p, Waterproof (Ip66), 6-Month Battery, 32gb Card Included.

The Dsoon Time Lapse Camera is a durable and versatile outdoor camera designed for construction, plant, weather, and life photography. It features multiple shooting modes including automatic and manual control for timed photo or timed video, as well as an infinite loop mode that can loop shooting with the oldest file deleted when the card is almost full.

Equipped with a 2.4-inch high-definition TFT LCD screen, a 110° starlight lens, and a 120° 2W white light LED, the camera can auto-focus and shoot color and high-brightness time-lapse video files. The resolution can be set to 1920*1080 or 1280*720 for optimal image quality.

The camera's waterproof rating is IP66, ensuring stable operation in any weather condition. It has a long battery life of up to six months when set to take one shot every five minutes, and can support up to 512GB TF memory card. When the memory card space is full, the camera will automatically stop taking pictures, video recording, and turn off the LED light.

The package includes the TL2100 time-lapse camera, a 32GB TF card, a USB data cable, a one-meter elastic cord, a green strap, two brackets, a cleaning cloth, and a user manual. The product also comes with a 12-month warranty and customer support is available 24/7.

Whether you're a professional photographer or a hobbyist, the Dsoon Time Lapse Camera is a reliable and easy-to-use tool for capturing stunning time-lapse videos of outdoor environments. Its durable construction, long battery life, and multiple shooting modes make it a versatile and highly recommended option for anyone looking to capture the beauty of nature or document the progress of a construction project.

3. Atli T100 Wifi Time Lapse Camera With Hdr, App Control, And Real-Time Preview For Indoor/outdoor Timelapse Videos.

The ATLI T100 1080P Time Lapse Camera is a versatile and user-friendly device that is perfect for capturing time-lapse videos in a variety of settings. This camera features WiFi connectivity and HDR capabilities, as well as APP control, real-time preview, and timing shooting. It also has manual focus and is capable of capturing stunning timelapse videos of indoor flower plants, weather patterns, and construction projects.

One of the key benefits of the ATLI T100 is its ability to create time-lapse videos without the need for expensive equipment or post-editing software. With this camera, users can easily capture photo sequence files and generate time-lapse videos automatically. They can then download these videos to their devices and share them instantly on their favorite social media platforms.

In addition to its time-lapse capabilities, the ATLI T100 is also the world's first camera that produces time slice photos. This feature allows users to see the passage of time in a single photo by composing the photo sequence files captured by the camera. Users can make amazing time slice photos simply by choosing and clicking.

The ATLI T100 also features APP control, live preview, and multiple shooting modes. Users can download the "aTLi" app to connect and set up the camera easily. The camera offers a variety of modes to adapt to different shooting scenarios, and users can change settings on the fly to help create their desired time-lapse videos. The live preview feature allows users to see ongoing shoots and make adjustments as needed.

With its macro shooting and 1.4s shutter speed, the ATLI T100 is capable of capturing up-close shots of favorite plants or magnificent starry skies and city light streaks. The camera comes pre-installed with a 16GB card and is compatible with up to 128GB Micro SD cards (not included in the package).

The ATLI T100 is applicable to multiple scenes, making it a versatile camera for capturing dynamic processes like sunrise and sunset, cloud formations, flowers blooming, plant growth, and building construction. Before investing in expensive professional equipment for time-lapse video, users can use this camera to test lighting and appropriate shooting time periods.

Overall, the ATLI T100 1080P Time Lapse Camera is a powerful and user-friendly device that is perfect for capturing stunning time-lapse videos and time slice photos in a variety of settings. Its features and capabilities make it a valuable tool for photographers, videographers, and anyone looking to capture the passage of time in a unique and visually stunning way.

4. Vmotal Time Lapse Camera: 1080p Photo & Video, Multiple Modes, 180-Day Battery Life For Construction/outdoor Security/plant Growth/tourism.

The Vmotal Time Lapse Camera is a powerful tool for capturing professional-grade photos and videos. With multiple time-lapse photography modes and no requirement for post-editing, this camera provides its users with a range of customizable options for shooting photos and videos at intervals of 1s-24 hours.

This camera is equipped with an advanced light-sensitive chip, 120°Starlight wide-angle lens, and HDR Sensor, which enable it to capture clear images even in low light conditions. It can also produce high-quality FHD video and pictures under starlight and moonlight. This feature makes it an ideal tool for capturing outdoor videos, plant growth, security monitoring, and engineering construction.

The Vmotal Time Lapse Camera has a longer continuous shooting time than most cameras in the market. In time-lapse photo mode, it can take a photo every five minutes, taking up to 288 photos per day, and has a battery life of up to 180 days. This feature eliminates the need to worry about running out of power during long shoots. However, 12 AA batteries are required to operate the camera, which are not included in the package. Additionally, users can buy solar power panels and DC power for charging the camera.

The Vmotal Time Lapse Camera is dustproof and waterproof, with an IP66 shell protection rating. This feature allows it to operate effectively in various outdoor environments, ensuring that users can take the necessary pictures and videos regardless of the weather conditions. The camera also supports up to 512G memory expansion, eliminating the need for users to worry about storage space issues. Moreover, its 2.7" HD screen allows users to review the pictures and videos that have been taken. Users can also transfer data to other devices through the USB cable to save and share.

In summary, the Vmotal Time Lapse Camera is a professional tool with multiple shooting modes that provide users with the flexibility to customize their shots. It is durable, dustproof, waterproof, and has a longer battery life, making it an ideal tool for outdoor security, construction, plant growth, and tourism record. Its advanced features and excellent image quality make it one of the best time-lapse cameras in the market.

5. The Brinno Bcc2000 Is A Construction And Outdoor Security Timelapse Camera Bundle That Includes A Tlc2000 Camera, Industrial Clamp, And Weather-Resistant Case. It Boasts A 1-Year Battery Life And Records In 1080p.

The Brinno BCC2000 Construction & Outdoor Security Timelapse Camera Trio Bundle Pack is an innovative solution for long-term outdoor construction projects and security surveillance where Wi-Fi is not available. The bundle includes a TLC2000 camera, an industrial clamp, and a weather-resistant case, providing a comprehensive solution for your monitoring needs.

The camera boasts a remarkable 1-year battery life, making it an ideal choice for extended outdoor projects. The 1080P camera captures high-quality footage, while the waterproof housing ensures it remains protected from the elements. The industrial clamp is rust-resistant, and its stainless steel construction makes it durable and strong. The "magic arm" feature extends the range of the clamp, making it easy to adjust to a wide range of surfaces. The 360° rotating ball joint with 90° tilt allows for shooting from any desired angle, providing greater flexibility in capturing footage.

Setting up the camera is quick and easy, with the daily timer and schedule settings enabling you to record timelapse HDR videos that are ready to share with the push of a button. The wireless setup is perfect for job sites or off-the-grid areas, providing privacy of data.

The spacious weather-resistant case provides more protection and power, with room for 16 extra batteries, ensuring that your projects are recorded for up to 1-year with maximum protection. The enclosure includes a CS-mount for interchangeable lens and solar panel compatibility, making it a versatile solution for a wide range of monitoring needs.

The Brinno camera bundles combine brilliant innovation with premium hardware for custom timelapse, security, or event videos. The product comes with a 1-year warranty from the date of purchase against defects under use as instructed by the user's manual.

In summary, the Brinno BCC2000 Construction & Outdoor Security Timelapse Camera Trio Bundle Pack is a comprehensive solution for your monitoring needs, providing a durable and reliable option for long-term outdoor projects and security surveillance. With its long battery life, high-quality footage, and versatile features, this bundle is a valuable investment for anyone looking for a reliable monitoring solution.

6. Brinno Bcc2000 Lite Construction Camera With Waterproof Housing And Mounting Clamp – Hdr Fhd, 99 Day Battery Life, 360-Degree Tripod Arm.

The Brinno BCC2000 Lite Construction & Outdoor Weather Camera is a professional-grade time lapse camera that is perfect for long-term projects, providing up to 99 days of power using a 5-minute capture interval and 120 days with a 10-minute capture interval using 4AA lithium batteries. This camera allows users to film for months on end without fear of missing out on anything important.

The camera features a state-of-the-art HDR sensor that instantly creates brilliant full HD time lapses with balanced colors and light. Users can customize everything about their filming schedule, from the capture interval to the time of day they want to film. The camera is designed to meet the unique needs of each project, making professional-quality time lapse easy for anyone to achieve.

The Brinno BCC2000 Lite Construction & Outdoor Weather Camera comes with a durable IPX4 waterproof housing that keeps the camera protected from water and construction dust. The industrial-grade mount securely attaches the camera to anything from poles to cinderblocks using its unique dual-sided grip design. This camera is built to withstand outdoor filming on a construction site and can handle rain and heavy winds with ease.

The powerful stainless steel mount weighs just 2.3lbs but has a load capacity of up to 110lbs. The kit comes bundled with the camera mount clamp, magic arm, extension pole, and installation wrench, making it easy to grip onto anything from 0.04” to a MAX of 10.6”. With its industrial-grade strength, users can be sure that their capture angle will remain steady even in the toughest conditions.

Brinno is the world leader of time lapse solutions, and their BCC2000 Lite Construction & Outdoor Weather Camera is no exception. The customer service team is always available to help answer any questions users might have, and the camera’s set it and forget it feature makes it easy to use. With the Brinno BCC2000 Lite Construction & Outdoor Weather Camera, users can capture stunning time lapse footage with ease and confidence.

7. Rexing Tl1 Time-Lapse Camera With 6-Month Battery Life, 110° Wide-Angle Lens, Full Hd Video, Loop Recording, And Up To 512gb Storage For Photography, Construction, And Nature Observation.

The Rexing TL1 Time-Lapse Camera is a heavy-duty digital camera that is designed to withstand and endure the outside elements. Encased in a solid, jet-black, water-resistant housing, the camera is built for use in building job sites and off-the-grid areas. The camera has a built-in 2.4” HD LCD screen that allows users to view their footage easily.

One of the standout features of this camera is its time-lapse photo capability. Users can take a collection of still images 2MP (1920 x 1080P) over a certain period of time and merge the footage to create a stop motion or time-lapse video. This feature is perfect for recording construction projects, crowds, traffic, art, and nature.

The TL1 camera also has a time-lapse video feature. Users can set up the camera to record various short 1080p Full HD video clips up to 3s-2 minutes long with a 110° field of view and combine the footage automatically to create a panoramic fast-motion clip. This feature is perfect for capturing the essence of scenic views or capturing the progress of a construction project.

Another useful feature of the camera is its scheduled recording option. Users can select which hours of any specific date to start, stop, and repeat recording via the touch keypad. The camera can be left alone to record any event for up to 6 months with its outstanding battery life, making it perfect for long-term projects.

The TL1 camera is easy to install, and the package comes with various mounting options. There are no wires or cables required, and no technical skills are needed to set up the camera. If users need help, they can contact the personal live customer support team for assistance. Additionally, Rexing stands behind their products with an 18-month warranty.

Overall, the Rexing TL1 Time-Lapse Camera is a versatile and durable camera that is perfect for use in construction, nature observation, and photography. Its many features, including time-lapse photo and video, scheduled recording, and long battery life, make it a great choice for anyone looking to capture high-quality footage over an extended period of time.

8. Brinno Tlc200 Pro Time Lapse Camera Bundle With Waterproof Housing – 42 Day Battery Life – Captures 720p Hdr Timelapse Videos – Ideal For Long-Term Outdoor Projects.

The Brinno TLC200 Pro Time Lapse Camera with Waterproof Housing Case Bundle is an ideal solution for long-term outdoor projects. This camera has a 42-day battery life and captures professional 720P HDR timelapse videos, providing stunning image quality and a 112° field of view. It is perfect for short-term outdoor time-lapse projects that require unmatched technology.

The Brinno TLC200 Pro Time Lapse Camera has a long battery life and daily timer feature which allows it to record up to 42 days using a 5-min shooting interval with only 4AA batteries. Additionally, using the daily timer feature, users can extend the battery life by double, selecting the hours they want to start and stop recording each day.

The camera captures incredible image quality and comes with a waterproof case that protects the camera and includes a CS mount for interchangeable lenses to capture the smallest details for plant progression videos and environment changes. The video is instantly available to share, making it easy to keep track of progress on long-term outdoor projects.

The Brinno TLC200 Pro Time Lapse Camera allows users to select a time interval from 1 sec-24hr for their activities and next project to ensure they don’t miss anything. The camera creates the AV1 file in the camera, making it instantly available with no post-processing required.

Brinno provides customers with regular firmware and software updates. The compact camera includes a 30-day money-back guarantee and 1-year warranty that can be extended for an additional 6 months if the camera is registered.

In summary, the Brinno TLC200 Pro Time Lapse Camera with Waterproof Housing Case Bundle is an ideal solution for long-term outdoor projects. It captures professional 720P HDR timelapse videos and has a 42-day battery life with a daily timer feature. The camera comes with a waterproof case that protects the camera and includes a CS mount for interchangeable lenses. With regular firmware and software updates, a 30-day money-back guarantee, and a 1-year warranty that can be extended for an additional 6 months, the Brinno TLC200 Pro Time Lapse Camera is a reliable and durable option for capturing long-term outdoor projects.

9. Brinno Tlc2020 Outdoor Time Lapse Camera With Ath1000, Hdr/fhd Modes, Long Battery, Weatherproof.

The Brinno Empower TLC2020 Time Lapse Camera is an outdoor construction camera that is equipped with new quick menu, step video, and stop motion capture modes in HDR and FHD. This camera is designed to provide the easiest solution to creating long-term time-lapse videos in any environment.

With a one-button approach to time-lapse, users can schedule filming days and times using the schedule function. This function provides ease of use that requires no technical expertise, allowing users to create beautiful time-lapses effortlessly.

This camera is designed to provide professional quality videos, with the ability to effortlessly create beautiful full HD time-lapses. The IP67 waterproof housing (ATH1000) keeps the camera protected from rain and construction dust, ensuring the quality of the footage is maintained.

The Brinno Empower TLC2020 Time Lapse Camera has a long-lasting battery that can film without interruptions for up to 99 days at 5-minute intervals. This is the perfect time-lapse solution for off-the-grid jobsites and hard to reach installations where power sources are limited.

The camera comes with a bundled sturdy mount kit (AWM1000) and bungee cords that allow for easy installation in any desired location. This makes it ideal for both indoor and outdoor filming locations.

Brinno provides a 1-year warranty on this product, ensuring that users are covered and protected. The customer service team is always available to assist with any questions or issues that users may run into.

In conclusion, the Brinno Empower TLC2020 Time Lapse Camera is the perfect solution for creating time-lapses in any environment. With its one-button approach, professional quality videos, long-lasting battery, sturdy mount kit, and 1-year warranty, users can capture stunning time-lapse videos with ease.

10. Brinno Tlc200pro Hdr Time Lapse Camera Kit With Weather Resistant Housing, Tripod, And Bag.

The Brinno TLC200PRO HDR Time Lapse Video Camera is a powerful tool for creating high-quality time-lapse videos. Equipped with a HDR image sensor with a 115dB dynamic range, the camera captures stunning images even in low light situations, ensuring that every detail is captured with precision. With Brinno's ready-to-view technology, users can view their time-lapse videos without any complicated post-processing, and can easily upload them to popular video sharing sites like YouTube and Vimeo.

One of the standout features of the Brinno TLC200PRO is its ultra-big pixel size of 4.2um, which allows the camera to capture more light and detail than other cameras in its class. This makes it an ideal choice for outdoor time-lapse photography, where lighting conditions can be unpredictable.

To further enhance the camera's versatility, the Brinno TLC200PRO also comes with a TIMER function that allows users to program when the camera will wake up and begin recording, and when it will shut off. This means that users can set up the camera to capture specific events or activities, and can rest assured that they will get the footage they need without having to constantly monitor the camera.

For even greater flexibility and protection, the Brinno TLC200PRO can be paired with the ATH120 Weather Resistant Housing, which allows the camera to function safely outdoors in any weather. This means that users can keep recording images in any season or location, without having to worry about damage to the camera or the quality of the footage.

To make it easy to transport and store the camera and its accessories, the Brinno TLC200PRO comes with a Smartec Camera Bag that is designed to hold Brinno Time Lapse Cameras and accessories. With a durable exterior and zipper closure, the bag provides ample protection for the camera and its accessories, ensuring that they are safe and secure during transport.

Finally, the Brinno TLC200PRO comes with a Smartec Flexible Spider Tripod, which is compatible with Brinno Cameras, GOPRO, Smartphones, and other devices. With a maximum loading weight of 1.1 pounds and a 7-inch tripod, the Smartec Flexible Spider Tripod is an ideal choice for users who need a flexible, portable, and versatile tripod that can be used in a variety of situations.

Best Cheap Time Lapse Camera FAQs

Are there any budget-friendly time lapse cameras that are suitable for outdoor use?

Yes, there are budget-friendly time lapse cameras that are suitable for outdoor use. One such option is the Brinno TLC200 Pro HDR Time Lapse Camera, which is designed to withstand harsh weather conditions and has a long battery life, making it ideal for outdoor use. It also features a high dynamic range image sensor that captures clear and vibrant images with minimal noise. Another affordable option is the CamDo Blink Time Lapse Controller, which works with a compatible GoPro camera to capture time-lapse footage. It is compact and durable, making it perfect for outdoor use. Both of these cameras are budget-friendly and offer reliable performance, making them ideal for amateur photographers or those on a tight budget who want to capture stunning time-lapse videos of the great outdoors.

Can I create professional-looking time lapse videos with a cheap camera, or do I need to invest in a more expensive model?

Yes, you can create professional-looking time lapse videos with a cheap camera. The key to achieving a high-quality time lapse video is not the camera but the technique and editing. To create a great time lapse video, you need to have a stable camera mount, proper lighting, and a good subject. You should also plan the duration, frequency, and interval of your shots for the desired effect.

When it comes to editing, you can use various software tools to enhance your time lapse video, such as adjusting the speed, adding music, or color grading. However, investing in a more expensive camera may provide better image quality and advanced features that can enhance your creativity and workflow. Ultimately, it depends on your goals and budget, but a cheap camera can still produce impressive results with the right technique and editing.

How can I find a cheap time lapse camera that still offers high-quality images and features?

To find a cheap time lapse camera that still offers high-quality images and features, you can begin by researching various camera models online. Look for cameras that have good reviews and ratings from other users. You can also compare prices from different retailers to find the best deal. Additionally, you may want to consider refurbished or used cameras, which can often be found at a lower price while still offering the same quality and features as a new camera.

Some features to look for in a time lapse camera include a high-resolution sensor, a wide-angle lens, and a long battery life. You may also want to consider cameras that offer remote control or Wi-Fi connectivity, which can make it easier to set up and monitor your time lapse footage. By doing your research and comparing different options, you can find a high-quality time lapse camera at an affordable price.

What are some tips for getting the most out of a low-cost time lapse camera?

To get the most out of a low-cost time-lapse camera, there are a few tips to keep in mind. First, consider the placement of the camera and the scene you are capturing. The camera should be positioned in a stable location and have a clear view of the subject. Second, determine the interval at which the camera will take photos. This will depend on the length of the time-lapse and the desired effect. Third, make sure the camera is fully charged and has enough memory to capture the entire time-lapse. Fourth, consider using a tripod or stabilizer to prevent camera shake. Fifth, use editing software to compile the photos into a video and add music or other effects. Overall, with careful planning and consideration, a low-cost time-lapse camera can produce impressive results.

What are the most affordable time lapse cameras available on the market?

As of 2021, there are several affordable time lapse cameras available on the market, with prices ranging from around $50 to $300. One of the most popular options is the Brinno TLC200 Pro, which is priced at around $200 and offers a long battery life, adjustable time intervals, and HD video quality. Another budget-friendly option is the Mevo Start, which is priced at around $300 and offers high-quality video and live streaming capabilities.

For those on a tighter budget, the AKASO EK7000 is a good option, priced at around $50 and offering 4K video resolution and a waterproof design. The GoPro HERO7 White is also a popular choice, priced at around $200 and offering 1080p HD video and a durable design.

It's important to consider factors such as battery life, image quality, and durability when choosing a time lapse camera, and to compare prices and features across different brands to find the best option for your needs and budget.

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