SJCAM C300 Action Camera Review

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Fast Specs

Full of Function

Right away, it was abundantly clear that the C300 Action Camera by SJCAM was going to be full of functions and features. It is a visibly pleasing little gadget that is controlled completely by one button and the 1.3″ touchscreens.

This wicked little device has the ability to capture video at 1080p/60fps and 4K/30fps. Not only that, but it can easily take great quality pictures at these resolutions with its 20MP wide angle (154 degree) lense. It has built in 6-Axis Gyroscopic Stabilization to aid with smoothing out all your wild adventures, and of course a microphone to bring in some audio to your recordings. The below video showcases how the camera handles Hail conditions while I rushed for cover while holding it. It copes with the motion very well utilising the gyroscopic stabilization. (Please note that the audio has been removed at the request of certain individuals included).

As you can see, the colour holds up well and the stability is excellent considering I was using with my walking stick and in a rush to escape the weather!

In addition to the above, the device also features timelapse, slow-motion and loop recording modes to offer creative flexibility for capturing whatever you like! It also has a mobile app for further control and quick editing options, along with acting as a live view for the device (it helps since the screens are quite small and I have poor eyesight).

Sleek and Slender

Often, action cameras can be big and bulky (usually wide), however the C300 takes things in a different direction – literally! The camera is designed in a slim, vertical way. This is especially useful for fitting it into tight spots, or holding it using the device as a handheld recorder.

While the device itself is slender, it is also lightweight, allowing it to not be a pain to transport, use or mount. This also lends itself nicely to fitting into all of the accessories included in the box. We will take a look at this next.

Accessorize to Your Heart’s Content

When you receive the box containing the C300, you may think, “That’s a massive box for something so small,” but it’s because it contains a plethora of goodies to help you on your way!

Inside the box, you’ll find the following:
– Camera
– Slim Battery
– Waterproof Case
– Frame Mount
– Base Back Clip
– Back Clip
– Lanyard
– Base Mount
– 2 x Curved & Flat Mounts
– 2 x 3M Adhesive Sticker
– Screw
– USB Cable
– Cleaning Cloth

With all of these things included, you can be sure to have whatever you need for the situation you’re in! All of these bits and bobs are made of high-quality materials, so they are sure to stand the test of time. I’m a personal fan of the Back Clip—it allows me to clip the camera onto something like my jeans without it being bulky.

Uh-oh, Drawback-io

Unfortunately, the C300 isn’t without its flaws, but considering the price point of the device, I kind of expected some of them. Firstly there is the lack-lustre battery life. Considering it has multiple batteries included, this one isn’t the end of the world (plus they charge up pretty quickly). You’re looking at 3-4 hours of 4K recording on both batteries combined. This might be enough for you, but also might not, depending on the activities.

Secondly, while the touchscreens are nice to have and are pretty responsive, they can be tricky to navigate due to their size, and they can also struggle in wet conditions or with gloves on.

Speaking of wet conditions, unfortunately, the device is not inherently waterproof. It will likely stand up to a bit of drizzle and it comes with a waterproof case that is water resistant up to 30m for half an hour. However, wouldn’t take it scuba-diving.

Finally, the audio. The Microphone is acceptable but not great. It struggles with things like wind, and can also be pretty quiet. I’ve also found that using an external microphone isn’t really viable due to its form factor.

What’s the Verdict?

While the device is certainly functional and well-priced, it leaves a little to be desired. It does everything it says on the tin and performs surprisingly well. If I were looking for a reasonably priced action camera to use for everyday stuff, I’d certainly pick this up. If I were focusing on more action-packed activities, I’d probably look for something a little more high-end.

You can buy the SJCAM C300 Action Camera on the SJCAM website.