My friend got a helmet cam for Christmas. Of course, now I want one. So I decided share the research for the helmet cams as I go along.

Oregon Scientific ATC2K Waterproof Action Cam


Overview: This helmet cam from Oregon Scientific touts itself as the ultimate,all-terrain digital video camera. The camera is waterproof up to 3 meters without any additional casing. It has 32 MB of internal memory and can expand up to 2 GB with an SD card. It also comes with mounting accessories.

Customer Reviews: The reviews on Amazon are extremely mixed., there are concerns about image and sound quality (but how much do you expect for a camera under $100?). Based on reviews, the poor sound quality could be more of a result of the waterproofing cover over the mic, than the camera itself. Remove that and replace the cover and the sound quality is better (but if you plan to use it near water, don’t forget to put it back).

Bottom Line: This is an inexpensive camera that offers expensive features. Such as waterproofing. It is a great camera to have on hand as a backup for your more expensive camera. Use it when conditions are treacherous or involve water.


GoPro HD Helmet Hero

Overview: GoPro’s helmet cams have won numerous awards and accolades. GoPro touts the Helmet Hero as the world’s highest performance wearable camera. It provides professional quality resolutions with 1080p. It can record up to 2/5 hours on a single charge. The Helmet Hero includes mounts for attaching the camera to 3 helmets. It also has a head strap so you can wear the camera around your atv helmet like a coal miners head lamp.

Customer Reviews:
Most people rate this camera very highly. Especially for quad/atv/motorcyle use. If you plan on using it underwater for filming dives, etc then be sure to check the GoPro Web site FAQ’s as a different camera housing will be needed for better film quality.

Bottom Line:
If you have the money, most people consider this as THE camera to get.

2011 Tachyon XC Micro Helmet Camera


Overview: Tachyon’s helmet camera is one tough camera. It’s designed with shock proof in mind and can take some of the most extreme situations. This camera has a wide view, and also has a remote control that you can operate it with.With an external case, its is waterproof. The camera comes with 2 helmet mounts that can connect to most goggles or helmets.

Customer Reviews: This camera has very good customer reviews. Customers are extremely happy with the video quality, ease of use and the durability of the camera itself. I have yet to find a review from someone who is not happy with this camera (if you have a different experience please do let me know).

Bottom Line: This is a great quality camera. It can take a beating, which is good when you are out on the trails. Some folks think it’s a little large, but it doesn’t seem to impact quality or ease of use when out on the trail.



Helmet Cam Comparison Chart

ATC2K Waterpoof Action Camera 2011 Tachyon XC Micro Helmet Camera; GoPro HD Helmet Hero
Onboard Memory 32 MB none none
Expandable memory 2 GB 4-32 GB 32 GB
Memory type SD Card SDHC SD Card
Waterproof 3 meters up to 34 meters 60 meters
Video recording: 640X480 720p up to 1080p: 1920×1080
Battery (Life)

approx. 6 hours

takes 2 AA

approx. 6 hours

takes 2 AA

Approx 2.5 hours, rechargeable 1100 mAh battery.
Output connections USB / RCA USB/RCA USB/RCA/Component
Mounting hardware included Yes Yes Yes
Warranty 90   1 year
Manual Location: Online
Manual
Online
Manual
Online
Manual