Aiptek ProjectorCam C25 review: camcorder with integrated projector
The Aiptek brand so far has been known to me only for all kinds of projectors, including extraordinary models like those specifically for the iPhone. Actually, I myself still watch my new series of “Interns” on the budget Aiptek PocketCinema V60 with my wife. However, the brand also has another important area of activity - the production of video equipment, in particular - video cameras and car recorders. Recently, I had the opportunity to get acquainted with a device that incorporates both of the leading Aiptek product vectors. In general, the Aiptek ProjectorCam C25 is what happens if you cross the camcorder and the pico projector.
When viewing the “assortment”, I immediately remembered the iON action cameras - they also included a complete list of interchangeable plugs so that the device could be charged anywhere in the world.
Not that I expected to see such a variety, but on the other hand - after all, cameras (to put it mildly) are often used mainly for travel. And if there has been a vacation with a stop in different countries, the "spare" does not hurt.
The list of cables does not shine with variety - miniUSB and AV. The latter looks somewhat archaic, for example, at home for at least the last couple of years I have not had a single “screen” with an analog input. An HDMI cable would have looked more appropriate, especially since the corresponding connector in the camcorder is present.
The paper kit is limited to a compatibility sheet for batteries and AC chargers; a brief manual without a Russian version; and warranty book.
The CD contains the full version of the manual, including in Russian. It is worthwhile to give credit, the instructions are written correctly, it’s easy to understand the controls and settings. The installer for the ArcSoft TotalMedia Extreme program, which includes the tools for viewing and editing both photos and videos, is also stored here. As far as I can see on the developer's site, the full version of the product costs $ 129.99. Interestingly, the “Arcsoft Total Media Extreme” for Aiptek ProjectorCam C25 is listed in the “System Requirements” column.
Externally, the Aiptek ProjectorCam C25 is practically no different from a conventional “general purpose” camcorder. Unless the attention is drawn to the rotary display, in part with which the projector is attached. The official dimensions are 124 x 63.7 x 58.6 mm, weight without battery is 308 grams. I will give a clear comparison with my personal camera Canon LEGRIA HFM307.
Ergonomics Aiptek ProjectorCam C25 deserves a strong four, I did not notice any blunders. On the other hand, I would like to see the places of contact with the palm less “thin” - look at how my right tank is sealed in my Canon, and almost the entire length under the fingertips is deflected from the top left. At Aiptek ProjectorCam C25 the upper left side ends too early, as a result, my fingers rested on a raised narrow edge.
The variety of materials of the Aiptek ProjectorCam C25 case is by and large similar to other cameras of a similar form factor. The main part is a glossy surface with microscopic spangles. In theory, it should be said about high soiling, but in the aggregate fingerprints are not evident, I did not have the desire to systematically wipe the coating.
On the side there is a matte insert, a reasonable solution for one of the main places of contact with the palm. A similar non-shiny surface is used from the rear as well as below.
Build quality is good, against the background of my much more squeaky Canon. The only thing that akin to a camera is a slight bursting, if you forcefully press the area of the part with the screen.
At the back there is a stub with speaking inscriptions, open and confirm the veracity of the instructions - miniHDMI and miniUSB connectors in place. On the left is the start / stop button for shooting video; in the photo mode, the button is responsible for taking the picture. The element has an intermediate position for starting the focusing process. By the way, the button is completely devoid of play and, according to my feelings, should not get loose over time. Do not lose sight of the work / shooting indicator.
Below, first of all, attention is drawn to the shift toward the lens side of the hole for the tripod. At first, this caused surprise, but then it became clear that in the open state, the best weight is distributed taking into account the weighting due to the built-in projector.
Under the hood are slots for the battery and SD card.
A strange situation turned out with protruding legs, which seem to be designed for smooth installation of the camera on a flat surface. The legs on the “chrome” coating turned out to be higher, as a result, the Aiptek ProjectorCam C25 “rolls” a couple of millimeters to the side.
The lever at the top performs functions depending on the camera’s operating mode: zooming when shooting photos / videos, adjusting the volume when watching videos, and turning over when managing captured photos. The lever stroke is moderately tight, again, there are no backlashes. A speaker with a decent volume is located a little higher, I heard the sound well, watching the received video on the street.
And here is the protruding part with the projector, on top - focus adjustment. The rotary display is touch-sensitive; the symbols on the screen frame are used to control the projector.
Opposite the screen (in the folded state) there is a power button, risking to remain unclaimed. The fact is that the camera automatically turns on / off when the part with the screen is tilted. At first it annoyed me a little, but then I thought that “just like that” I never threw back an element with a display - viewing content, shooting, working with a projector - I would still need to turn on the camera. However, the irritation did not completely disappear, because the start of the work is always accompanied by a rather loud two-second melody. I did not manage to disconnect it.
The lens is closed by a cap, which can be easily removed without even squeezing the “grips” on the springs. Self-timer indicator, direct lens, LED-backlight - nothing more.
Access to camera options is done in two main ways. The first is the touch of individual interactive elements on the display. That is, with one touch you can set the resolution, focus options, LED-backlight and the choice of scene mode. An insignificant flaw was immediately revealed - the lists on the screen do not scroll with a sliding gesture, you have to press the navigation buttons. But it’s convenient that the number of screens in the current tab is always displayed.
To call a more or less centralized “meeting” of settings, click the list icon in the lower left corner. Then, to switch between option packages, touch the icon in the upper left corner: “video”, “photo” and “other” camera settings.
Video:
A photo:
The menu for viewing photos and videos was remembered by me as options for protecting one or all files from deletion.
Aiptek ProjectorCam C25 is equipped with a 5 megapixel 1 / 3.2 "matrix and is capable of taking pictures in the following resolutions:
I got the following test shots:
In the room, when moving away from the window, as well as in the elevator, practically no photos escaped the “stir”. It was noticeable that the camera refused to take snapshots and was “wise” with shutter speed. On the street, this was not observed.
Moving on to video shooting, Full HD resolution options are available at 30 fps and HD at 60 or 30 fps. As it turned out, it is impossible to manually specify the focus point on the screen, because with the object on the side it was not always possible to get the desired image construction. The camera does not provide any image stabilization measures. Unfortunately, during the test shooting, there was an impenetrable fog in the yard, which accordingly affected the testing capabilities - it did not work to try the Aiptek ProjectorCam C25 on a clear sunny day.
Ball Head Tripod Shooting
Walking, handheld shooting
I wish I could make out the numbers ...
A 3-inch display is enough for fussing with settings and viewing content. The specific technology of the sensor layer is not indicated, but the least I thought about the presence of a resistive option. The sensitivity is high, I did not have to indicate anything several times - unlike my own Canon camera. The viewing angles are wide, the inversion is manifested only when the screen is rotated with the top towards you.
In order to activate the projector, go to the content viewing menu, open a specific photo / video and then press the “PROJECTOR” key on the left, on the screen frame. After that, the display is completely turned off and control is carried out only by the "frame" buttons. “OK” - playback start / stop, the return button for some reason duplicates the projector shutdown function at the “floor above” key. The top pair of elements is responsible for the transition between files.
The projector has the following characteristics: DLP technology, operating life up to 10,000 hours, contrast 1000: 1, resolution 640 x 360 pixels, brightness up to 25 lumens, focusing distance 20-160 cm. Finally, the generated image diagonal is 5-50 inches. I have no complaints about image quality, but there are obvious limitations with brightness. In the afternoon, I was able to more or less normally view the video from a maximum of 1-1.5 meters. In the dark, it’s already better, the distance increases “from wall to wall”. I liked the focus control using the slider - it is much more convenient and accurate than spinning the wheel in my Aiptek PocketCinema V60.
After working with the Aiptek ProjectorCam C25, I had associations with various hybrid recorders. When two devices are combined into one, a seemingly more versatile and functional product is obtained. But upon closer examination, it turns out that in each category within the device there are always compromises of different sizes. So it is with the Aiptek ProjectorCam C25 - I have a separate video camera that, in terms of ease of operation, surpasses this model in various “tricks”. And there is an extremely low-cost projector from Aiptek, which all the same practically bypasses the Aiptek ProjectorCam C25.
However, as expected, the hybrid, the model "takes" at its price - 299 euros. In any case, such a price tag was indicated in the news. Alas, there are serious problems with the discovery of the Aiptek ProjectorCam C25 in retail in the CIS (and not only). But here , for example, the camera costs $ 329.99. Therefore, if we consider the device from the point of view of the ratio of price and characteristics, it turns out quite an attractive and positively extraordinary device. Such even as an expensive and unusual gift will do.
Equipment
When viewing the “assortment”, I immediately remembered the iON action cameras - they also included a complete list of interchangeable plugs so that the device could be charged anywhere in the world.
Not that I expected to see such a variety, but on the other hand - after all, cameras (to put it mildly) are often used mainly for travel. And if there has been a vacation with a stop in different countries, the "spare" does not hurt.
The list of cables does not shine with variety - miniUSB and AV. The latter looks somewhat archaic, for example, at home for at least the last couple of years I have not had a single “screen” with an analog input. An HDMI cable would have looked more appropriate, especially since the corresponding connector in the camcorder is present.
The paper kit is limited to a compatibility sheet for batteries and AC chargers; a brief manual without a Russian version; and warranty book.
The CD contains the full version of the manual, including in Russian. It is worthwhile to give credit, the instructions are written correctly, it’s easy to understand the controls and settings. The installer for the ArcSoft TotalMedia Extreme program, which includes the tools for viewing and editing both photos and videos, is also stored here. As far as I can see on the developer's site, the full version of the product costs $ 129.99. Interestingly, the “Arcsoft Total Media Extreme” for Aiptek ProjectorCam C25 is listed in the “System Requirements” column.
Design and Management
Externally, the Aiptek ProjectorCam C25 is practically no different from a conventional “general purpose” camcorder. Unless the attention is drawn to the rotary display, in part with which the projector is attached. The official dimensions are 124 x 63.7 x 58.6 mm, weight without battery is 308 grams. I will give a clear comparison with my personal camera Canon LEGRIA HFM307.
Ergonomics Aiptek ProjectorCam C25 deserves a strong four, I did not notice any blunders. On the other hand, I would like to see the places of contact with the palm less “thin” - look at how my right tank is sealed in my Canon, and almost the entire length under the fingertips is deflected from the top left. At Aiptek ProjectorCam C25 the upper left side ends too early, as a result, my fingers rested on a raised narrow edge.
The variety of materials of the Aiptek ProjectorCam C25 case is by and large similar to other cameras of a similar form factor. The main part is a glossy surface with microscopic spangles. In theory, it should be said about high soiling, but in the aggregate fingerprints are not evident, I did not have the desire to systematically wipe the coating.
On the side there is a matte insert, a reasonable solution for one of the main places of contact with the palm. A similar non-shiny surface is used from the rear as well as below.
Build quality is good, against the background of my much more squeaky Canon. The only thing that akin to a camera is a slight bursting, if you forcefully press the area of the part with the screen.
At the back there is a stub with speaking inscriptions, open and confirm the veracity of the instructions - miniHDMI and miniUSB connectors in place. On the left is the start / stop button for shooting video; in the photo mode, the button is responsible for taking the picture. The element has an intermediate position for starting the focusing process. By the way, the button is completely devoid of play and, according to my feelings, should not get loose over time. Do not lose sight of the work / shooting indicator.
Below, first of all, attention is drawn to the shift toward the lens side of the hole for the tripod. At first, this caused surprise, but then it became clear that in the open state, the best weight is distributed taking into account the weighting due to the built-in projector.
Under the hood are slots for the battery and SD card.
A strange situation turned out with protruding legs, which seem to be designed for smooth installation of the camera on a flat surface. The legs on the “chrome” coating turned out to be higher, as a result, the Aiptek ProjectorCam C25 “rolls” a couple of millimeters to the side.
The lever at the top performs functions depending on the camera’s operating mode: zooming when shooting photos / videos, adjusting the volume when watching videos, and turning over when managing captured photos. The lever stroke is moderately tight, again, there are no backlashes. A speaker with a decent volume is located a little higher, I heard the sound well, watching the received video on the street.
And here is the protruding part with the projector, on top - focus adjustment. The rotary display is touch-sensitive; the symbols on the screen frame are used to control the projector.
Opposite the screen (in the folded state) there is a power button, risking to remain unclaimed. The fact is that the camera automatically turns on / off when the part with the screen is tilted. At first it annoyed me a little, but then I thought that “just like that” I never threw back an element with a display - viewing content, shooting, working with a projector - I would still need to turn on the camera. However, the irritation did not completely disappear, because the start of the work is always accompanied by a rather loud two-second melody. I did not manage to disconnect it.
The lens is closed by a cap, which can be easily removed without even squeezing the “grips” on the springs. Self-timer indicator, direct lens, LED-backlight - nothing more.
Settings
Access to camera options is done in two main ways. The first is the touch of individual interactive elements on the display. That is, with one touch you can set the resolution, focus options, LED-backlight and the choice of scene mode. An insignificant flaw was immediately revealed - the lists on the screen do not scroll with a sliding gesture, you have to press the navigation buttons. But it’s convenient that the number of screens in the current tab is always displayed.
To call a more or less centralized “meeting” of settings, click the list icon in the lower left corner. Then, to switch between option packages, touch the icon in the upper left corner: “video”, “photo” and “other” camera settings.
Video:
- “Quality” - very good, good, ordinary;
- “Prerecord” - the implementation of this item has remained incomplete for me, the instructions explain that the option “records images even before you click the“ Record ”button”;
- “Cycle” - shooting timelapse, receiving a frame every 1, 5 or 30 minutes;
- “Motion detection” is probably a useful point when using a camera for security surveillance;
- "White balance";
- "Exposure" - in the middle, center or point;
- “Digital effect” - sepia, negative, black and white, saturated and painting (oil).
A photo:
- “Shooting mode” - normal, continuous shooting;
- “View” - on / off. Responsible for showing the image immediately after it is taken;
- "Self-timer" - a delay of 2 or 10 seconds;
- "White balance";
- “Exposure” - similar to “video”;
- “AE ISO” - auto (in the range of 100-400, 100-800 or 100-1600), 100, 200, 400, 800, 1,600;
- "Digital effect" - similar to "video".
The menu for viewing photos and videos was remembered by me as options for protecting one or all files from deletion.
In work
Aiptek ProjectorCam C25 is equipped with a 5 megapixel 1 / 3.2 "matrix and is capable of taking pictures in the following resolutions:
- 16M (4608x3456), 4: 3, interpolation;
- 12M (4000x3000), 4: 3, interpolation;
- 8M (3200x2400), 4: 3, interpolation;
- 5M (2592x1944), 4: 3;
- 3M (2048x1536), 4: 3.
I got the following test shots:
In the room, when moving away from the window, as well as in the elevator, practically no photos escaped the “stir”. It was noticeable that the camera refused to take snapshots and was “wise” with shutter speed. On the street, this was not observed.
Moving on to video shooting, Full HD resolution options are available at 30 fps and HD at 60 or 30 fps. As it turned out, it is impossible to manually specify the focus point on the screen, because with the object on the side it was not always possible to get the desired image construction. The camera does not provide any image stabilization measures. Unfortunately, during the test shooting, there was an impenetrable fog in the yard, which accordingly affected the testing capabilities - it did not work to try the Aiptek ProjectorCam C25 on a clear sunny day.
Ball Head Tripod Shooting
Walking, handheld shooting
I wish I could make out the numbers ...
Screen
A 3-inch display is enough for fussing with settings and viewing content. The specific technology of the sensor layer is not indicated, but the least I thought about the presence of a resistive option. The sensitivity is high, I did not have to indicate anything several times - unlike my own Canon camera. The viewing angles are wide, the inversion is manifested only when the screen is rotated with the top towards you.
Projector
In order to activate the projector, go to the content viewing menu, open a specific photo / video and then press the “PROJECTOR” key on the left, on the screen frame. After that, the display is completely turned off and control is carried out only by the "frame" buttons. “OK” - playback start / stop, the return button for some reason duplicates the projector shutdown function at the “floor above” key. The top pair of elements is responsible for the transition between files.
The projector has the following characteristics: DLP technology, operating life up to 10,000 hours, contrast 1000: 1, resolution 640 x 360 pixels, brightness up to 25 lumens, focusing distance 20-160 cm. Finally, the generated image diagonal is 5-50 inches. I have no complaints about image quality, but there are obvious limitations with brightness. In the afternoon, I was able to more or less normally view the video from a maximum of 1-1.5 meters. In the dark, it’s already better, the distance increases “from wall to wall”. I liked the focus control using the slider - it is much more convenient and accurate than spinning the wheel in my Aiptek PocketCinema V60.
Conclusion
After working with the Aiptek ProjectorCam C25, I had associations with various hybrid recorders. When two devices are combined into one, a seemingly more versatile and functional product is obtained. But upon closer examination, it turns out that in each category within the device there are always compromises of different sizes. So it is with the Aiptek ProjectorCam C25 - I have a separate video camera that, in terms of ease of operation, surpasses this model in various “tricks”. And there is an extremely low-cost projector from Aiptek, which all the same practically bypasses the Aiptek ProjectorCam C25.
However, as expected, the hybrid, the model "takes" at its price - 299 euros. In any case, such a price tag was indicated in the news. Alas, there are serious problems with the discovery of the Aiptek ProjectorCam C25 in retail in the CIS (and not only). But here , for example, the camera costs $ 329.99. Therefore, if we consider the device from the point of view of the ratio of price and characteristics, it turns out quite an attractive and positively extraordinary device. Such even as an expensive and unusual gift will do.