The best construction time-lapse camera should capture workdays videos in HD, condense them into seconds or minutes of play, and automatically create engaging mini-movies for you.
It should be designed to withstand harsh weather, while its batteries can last for an entire construction period.
Although many cameras are capable of timelapse, finding a versatile one that can record an entire construction process is difficult.
In this guide, we’ll discuss what to look for in a time-lapse construction camera and review the top seven all-in-one time-lapse cameras we think you should seriously consider
What To Look For in a Time-lapse Construction Camera
Many cameras have a time-lapse capability, but most cannot record long-term projects. There are things you must consider while choosing the best time-lapse construction camera.
1. Type of Time-lapse System
There are three time-lapse systems, including DIY, all-in-one, and large, professional designs.
DIY systems can help you save on costs, but they aren’t recommended unless you’re an expert on time-lapse cameras.
All-in-one systems are small and compact, saving you lots of space and time required to set them up.
Large, professional systems are expensive, but they come with professional time-lapse systems that integrate well with professional cameras.
2. Power
Professional and DIY systems require higher power input, but you can use solar power on professional units. You may need to install a solar panel, batteries, or use AC power.
All-in-one systems mostly require double-A batteries, which can last up to 60 days, making them fitting for short-term projects.
3. Cloud Service and Brand
It’s crucial to examine if your time-lapse camera allows uploading and managing photos online.
Some brands provide status reporting, photo uploads, and remote camera configuration. Other companies will allow you to manage your gallery, compare photos, and search and find pictures online.
7 Best Time-Lapse Cameras To Use on a Construction Site
Here are the top all-in-one time-lapse cameras we think might be resourceful during your construction project.
7. ATLI EON
ATLI EON is designed to capture images sequentially and create a short video automatically, eliminating the need to edit your videos.
It’s small, light-weight and cheaper compared to other time-lapse cameras.
Features
- 1080p video resolution at 30fps
- Live Preview in time-lapse mode
- Flexible scheduling and power-saving features
- Remote access through the web
Pros
- You can control it from the web
- Cheaper
- Multi-access control
Cons
- Low battery life
- Not easy to use
6. Brinno BCC100
Brinno BCC100 is a dedicated construction time-lapse camera that requires no profession to set up and run. It runs on double-A batteries but can record for up to 230 days.
Features
- Dustproof and water-resistant housing
- 140° wide-view angle
- 720p resolution video and captures up to 4 photos per second
Pros
- Cheap
- Easy to use and set up
- Instant video
Cons
- Low video and sound quality
5. COOAU 4k 20MP Wi-Fi CWiFi
COOAU is a cheaper all-in-one time-lapse camera alternative for people who want to capture small projects easily.
It’s designed with robust material and intelligent technology to help you manage, utilize and capture images easier.
Features
- Ultra HD 20MP action camera that captures 4K/30FPS, 2.7K/30FPS, 1080P/60FPS, and 720P/120FPS video resolutions
- Innovative anti-shake program and versatile waterproof material reaching up to 40m
- External microphone and wide-angle camera of 170°
- Remote control from up to 10 meters and Wi-Fi
PWiFiCheaper
- Easy to use
- Good image and sound quality, given the price
Cons
- You cannot adjust the angle of the recording
4. Brinno TLC200 Pro
Brinno TLC200 Pro boasts the world’s first HDR timelapse camera. It creates short videos automatically and claims to capture ultra-big pixels even when the light conditions are low.
Features
- Interchangeable lenses of focal length 18-55mm and 24-70mm
- 1/3″ 720p HDR sensor and 112° field of view
- 42 days of battery life with 5 minutes of shooting intervals
Pros
- Good low light quality
- Robust sensors to select optimum lighting for capturing images
- Easy to use
- Cheaper than most alternatives
Cons
- Low video quality
3. Afidus ATL-200 HD
Afidus ATL-200 is a set-it-and-forget-it camera designed to withstand harsh weather and record undisturbed for up to 30 days.
It also comes with an app to help you choose the frames per second, the frequency of taking pictures, and the type of recording you want.
Features
- 1080p video resolution and 16-35mm zoom lens with manual and auto focus
- Fully weather and dustproof
- PIR motion sensors
- Remote control via mobile app
Pros
- Easy to use
- Many options to configure your video
- Good video and audio quality
Cons
- Expensive
- No display
2. GoPro Hero10 Black
GoPro Hero10 is a versatile action time-lapse camera that’s user-friendly and more powerful, shooting 5.3K videos with double the standard frame rate.
It comes with a revamped Quik app that helps you edit your videos quicker, a more responsive touchscreen, and a low-light noise reduction feature.
Features
- Faster processor, more responsive touch screen, and double frame rates for smooth footage
- High-resolution photos of up to 23mp and 5.3K resolution videos at 60fps
- Good low-lighting performance and horizon leveling feature to keep images upright
- 1080p live streaming plus webcam
- GoPro subscription for unlimited data storage in the cloud
Pros
- Easy to use
- Fast and reliable connectivity to the cloud
- Excellent image and sound quality
Cons
- Expensive
- Low battery life
1. Brinno Empower TLC2020
Brinno Empower TLC2020 stands out as a top-of-the-line construction time-lapse camera for professionals. It comes with HDR and FHD imaging technologies to improve images of high contrast scenes for quality works.
Features
- 1080p video quality at 30fps
- Time-lapse, step video, stop motion, and still photo capture modes
- Up to 99 days battery life at 5 minutes capturing intervals
Pros
- Good video and sound quality
- Easy to use
- Long battery life
Cons
- Expensive
Which Is The Best Construction Time-Lapse Camera?
Buying a good all-in-one time-lapse camera can help document your construction in an engaging format.
You should opt for a time-lapse camera with high-quality video and photo resolution and advanced features to help you manage your pictures easily.
In most cases, if your camera has low battery life, you can install a mini-battery and a 5V solar panel, which can increase your battery life drastically.
To find the most suitable camera for you, map out your requirements and pick a time-lapse camera that suits your project.
