Ever wondered how those mesmerizing videos of flowers blooming, buildings rising, or clouds drifting by are made? Often, it’s thanks to a nifty piece of gear: a time-lapse camera. While many general-purpose action cameras offer a time-lapse mode, some are specifically designed for long-term projects, offering incredible battery life and robust build quality. Finding the best action camera for time lapse can really make a difference in capturing those epic, slow-moving scenes.
Whether you’re documenting a construction project, observing nature, or simply want to condense a day’s events into a captivating clip, a good time-lapse camera is your go-to. We’ve rounded up seven top contenders, ranging from versatile action cameras that moonlight as time-lapse masters to dedicated units built for months of continuous shooting. Let’s dive in!
1. COOAU 4K 30FPS 20MP WiFi Action Camera
This COOAU camera isn’t just an action camera; it’s a versatile powerhouse that includes excellent time-lapse capabilities. If you’re looking for a device that can handle your adventurous shoots and deliver stunning time-lapse videos, this one’s a strong contender. Its ability to record in crisp 4K at 30fps and capture 20MP photos, coupled with smart anti-shake technology, means your footage will always look professional, whether you’re rocketing down a mountain or documenting a slow sunrise. The included external microphone is a huge bonus for capturing clear audio in addition to visuals, making it a well-rounded choice for diverse projects.
Key Features:
– Ultra HD 4K/30fps video and 20MP photos
– Smart anti-shake program for stable footage
– 40M waterproof with upgraded durable case
– Remote control and Wi-Fi connectivity via “LIVE DV” app
– Built-in and external microphone for clear audio
– 170° wide-angle lens
– Various functions including loop recording, time lapse recording, slow motion, self-timer
Pros:
– Excellent video and photo resolution for an action camera
– Effective image stabilization
– Deep waterproofing for underwater use
– Convenient remote control and app connectivity
– External microphone greatly improves audio quality
Cons:
– Battery life (120 minutes) is shorter compared to dedicated time-lapse cameras
– Might be overkill if time-lapse is your only use case
User Impressions:
Users frequently praise its sharp video quality and the handy external microphone, which is a rare find on budget action cameras. Many are surprised by its robust waterproof build and appreciate the ease of use with the remote control for general action shots, finding its time-lapse mode a pleasant bonus.
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2. Dsoon Time Lapse Camera, 1080P HD Timelapse Camera (TL2100)
When it comes to dedicated time-lapse cameras, the Dsoon TL2100 really stands out for its impressive longevity and simplicity. This camera is built for the long haul, boasting an incredible half-year (180 days) battery life on a single charge interval, making it perfect for monitoring extended construction projects, plant growth, or seasonal changes without constant attention. Its 1080P HD resolution combined with a 110° wide-angle starlight lens ensures clear visuals even in low-light conditions, while its IP66 waterproof design means it can brave the elements right alongside your project.
Key Features:
– 1080P HD images and videos with advanced chips and fill light technology
– 110° wide-angle starlight lens for clear low-light performance
– Extra long-time standby: up to 180 days battery life (5-minute capture interval)
– Effortless time-lapse setup: continuous cycling until SD card full
– Versatile shooting modes: timed shooting, video time-lapse, photo time-lapse, manual macro focus
– IP66 waterproof design for indoor and outdoor use
Pros:
– Exceptional battery life for long-term projects
– Robust waterproof and dustproof rating (IP66)
– User-friendly “set it and forget it” operation
– Good low-light performance with starlight lens
– Comprehensive package with mounting options
Cons:
– Limited to 1080P resolution (not 4K)
– Primarily designed for time-lapse, less versatile for general action
– No Wi-Fi or app control for remote viewing/transfer
User Impressions:
Customers love the TL2100 for its reliability and “set-it-and-forget-it” nature. The extended battery life is a consistent highlight, praised by those tracking construction progress or natural events over months. Its ease of setup and robust build quality for outdoor use also receive high marks.
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3. Dsoon Time Lapse Camera, 1080P FHD Timelapse Camera Outdoor
Another strong offering from Dsoon, this 1080P FHD time-lapse camera is specifically geared towards outdoor endurance and hassle-free operation. While sharing many excellent features with the previous Dsoon model, its emphasis on using 12 AAA alkaline batteries for an astounding 180 days of continuous operation further reinforces its dedication to ultra-long-term projects. This model truly shines in remote locations where power access is limited, offering unparalleled reliability for capturing everything from large-scale construction sites to subtle environmental shifts.
Key Features:
– 1080P Full HD video with advanced imaging sensor and fill-light
– 110° wide-angle starlight lens for excellent low-light performance
– Extra long-time standby: up to 180 days with 12 AAA batteries (5-minute intervals)
– Effortless, continuous shooting until SD card is full
– Flexible shooting modes: timed shooting, video time-lapse, photo sequences, manual macro focus
– IP66-rated waterproof casing and durable metal brackets
Pros:
– Incredible battery longevity, perfect for remote, long-term deployments
– Excellent low-light capabilities
– Extremely durable and weather-resistant (IP66)
– Simple, straightforward setup
– Versatile for various types of time-lapse projects
Cons:
– Requires 12 AAA batteries, which adds to ongoing costs (though infrequent)
– Still limited to 1080P resolution
– Lacks advanced connectivity features like Wi-Fi
User Impressions:
Reviewers frequently highlight the sheer convenience of the long battery life, noting it’s a game-changer for projects spanning weeks or months. Its robust build quality for outdoor environments is also a major plus, making it a reliable choice for challenging conditions. The clear 1080P footage is generally well-received for its purpose.
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4. Brinno Time Lapse Camera BCC300-C Bundle
Brinno has long been a recognized name in the dedicated time-lapse camera market, and the BCC300-C bundle lives up to that reputation. This camera is all about making time-lapse photography easy and accessible. Its user-friendly menu, displayed on a clear 1.44-inch IPS LCD screen, allows for quick scheduling and interval settings. The HDR feature ensures your recordings look great from day to night, capturing a wide dynamic range. What truly sets this bundle apart is the included adjustable clamp, offering 360-degree rotation for perfect placement, making it incredibly versatile for mounting in various outdoor scenarios.
Key Features:
– HD 1080P Video with HDR feature for day-to-night recording
– 118-degree field of view
– Storage up to 128GB Micro SD card
– IPX4 Water-Resistant housing
– User-friendly menu with 1.44-inch IPS LCD screen
– Daily Timer for scheduled recording sessions
– Long-lasting battery: up to 100 days using 4 AA batteries (5-min interval)
– Includes Adjustable Clamp for flexible mounting
Pros:
– Very intuitive and easy to operate interface
– HDR feature is excellent for varied lighting conditions
– Included adjustable clamp provides superior mounting flexibility
– Decent battery life with common AA batteries
– Compact and durable for outdoor use
Cons:
– IPX4 water resistance is less robust than IP66 found on some competitors
– 1080P resolution might not be enough for some users seeking higher detail
– Battery life, while good, is shorter than the Dsoon models
User Impressions:
Brinno users consistently praise the BCC300-C for its straightforward operation and reliable performance. The included clamp is a standout feature, making installation incredibly simple. While some wish for 4K, the 1080P HDR footage is generally well-regarded for construction time-lapses.
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5. Caupureye Time Lapse Camera for Outdoor Construction
The Caupureye Time Lapse Camera brings some unique features to the table that make framing and setup incredibly precise. Its external time-lapse button and infrared positioning lights are real game-changers, allowing you to accurately center your subject without constantly opening the camera’s back cover – a huge convenience for outdoor, long-term setups. This rugged, IP66-rated camera is designed to handle harsh weather and offers flexible power options (4 or 12 AA batteries) for up to 180 days of shooting, making it a reliable choice for demanding outdoor construction or nature observation projects.
Key Features:
– Precise Framing with external time-lapse button and infrared positioning lights
– Versatile shooting modes: Timelapse (auto compiles) and Timing (individual photos/videos)
– Captures 1080P videos and 2MP photos
– Flexible power: 4 or 12 AA batteries for up to 180 days (10 FPS, 2MP, 5-min intervals)
– Weather-Resistant IP66 rating
– Includes two brackets, elastic rope, strap, and 64GB TF card
– Tripod mount compatible
Pros:
– Unique external button and IR lights for easy and precise framing
– Excellent battery life with flexible battery options
– Highly weather-resistant (IP66)
– Comprehensive mounting accessories included
– Comes with an SD card, ready to use out of the box
Cons:
– Photo resolution is only 2MP, which is low for detailed stills
– Video resolution is 1080P, not 4K
– No mention of Wi-Fi or app connectivity
User Impressions:
Customers particularly appreciate the innovative external button and IR lights, which simplify what can often be a frustrating setup process. The long battery life and included accessories are also highly valued for making it truly ready for outdoor, long-term deployment. Its robust build quality often exceeds expectations.
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6. Dsoon Time Lapse Camera, 1080P HD Timelapse Camera (Another TL2100)
This appears to be another listing for the popular Dsoon TL2100 model, reinforcing its status as a go-to option for reliable and extended time-lapse projects. Just like the first Dsoon TL2100 we reviewed, this unit excels in capturing your world in 1080P resolution with clear images, even in challenging low-light conditions thanks to its advanced chips and 110° wide-angle starlight lens. Its standout feature remains the extraordinary battery life, allowing for up to half a year of continuous operation, effectively letting you “set it and forget it” for truly long-term documentation without the constant worry of power.
Key Features:
– 1080P HD images and videos with advanced chips and fill light technology
– 110° wide-angle starlight lens for clear low-light performance
– Extra long-time standby: up to 180 days battery life (5-minute capture interval)
– Effortless time-lapse setup: continuous cycling until SD card full
– Versatile shooting modes: timed shooting, video time-lapse, photo time-lapse, manual macro focus
– IP66 waterproof design for indoor and outdoor use
Pros:
– Unmatched battery life for extended outdoor use
– Highly durable and weather-resistant (IP66)
– Simple and straightforward operation
– Good low-light capabilities
– Suitable for a wide range of time-lapse applications including stop-motion
Cons:
– No 4K resolution option
– Lacks modern connectivity features like Wi-Fi
– Primarily a dedicated time-lapse camera, not for general action use
User Impressions:
Similar to the other Dsoon TL2100 listing, users consistently praise its rock-solid reliability and exceptional battery performance. It’s often recommended for professional or semi-professional applications where consistent, long-term capture is paramount. The ease of setup is also a significant selling point for many.
Call-to-action: See it on Amazon here
7. 4K Time Lapse Camera Outdoor Construction Plant Weather
If 4K resolution is a must-have for your time-lapse projects, this dedicated 4K time-lapse camera is exactly what you need. Moving beyond 1080p, it captures ultra-sharp, more detailed footage, making every nuance of your construction site, plant growth, or weather patterns incredibly clear. This isn’t just about resolution; it offers extensive customization with adjustable time intervals and exposure settings, giving you full creative control. Coupled with a 70° starlight lens, a 120° white light LED, and an impressive 180-day battery life, this camera is poised to capture stunning time-lapse sequences both day and night, making it one of the best action camera for time lapse solutions for high-resolution needs.
Key Features:
– Upgrade to 4K Ultra HD resolution for sharper details
– Customizable shooting options: adjustable time intervals, exposure settings, various modes
– More stable operation with automatic and manual control over video creation
– Easy shooting with 2-inch HD LED screen, 70° starlight lens, and 120° 2W white light LED
– Auto-focus and color/high-brightness time-lapse video files
– Low power consumption: 3000mAh rechargeable battery lasts up to 180 days (5-min interval)
– Professional IP66 protection & waterproof housing
– Comprehensive package with multiple brackets, SD card, and USB cable
Pros:
– True 4K resolution for superior detail
– Excellent battery life for long-term projects
– Built-in starlight lens and white LED for enhanced low-light and night shooting
– High level of customization for creative control
– Robust IP66 waterproof and dustproof design
Cons:
– Price might be higher than 1080P alternatives
– Interface might be slightly more complex due to customization options
– No external microphone input
User Impressions:
Users are thrilled with the jump to 4K resolution, noting the significant improvement in detail for their long-term projects. The integrated light and starlight lens are frequently mentioned as game-changers for capturing quality footage in various lighting conditions, especially at night. Its long battery life and sturdy build are also highly appreciated.
Call-to-action: See it on Amazon here
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What’s the main difference between a dedicated time-lapse camera and an action camera with time-lapse mode?
A1: Dedicated time-lapse cameras are built for long-term, static recording, often featuring exceptionally long battery life (months!), weather-resistant designs, and simple “set-and-forget” operation. Action cameras, while offering time-lapse, are designed for dynamic, shorter-duration activities, prioritizing portability, image stabilization, and versatile shooting modes. They typically have much shorter battery lives without external power.
Q2: How long can these cameras typically record for?
A2: It varies greatly. A standard action camera might record time-lapse for a few hours on its internal battery. However, dedicated time-lapse cameras featured here can record for 100 to 180 days (3 to 6 months) on a single set of batteries, depending on the capture interval and battery type, making them ideal for very long projects.
Q3: What resolution is best for time-lapse videos?
A3: 1080P (Full HD) is a good standard for clear, shareable time-lapse videos. However, 4K (Ultra HD) offers significantly more detail and allows for reframing or zooming in on specific areas during post-production without losing quality. If detail and flexibility are crucial, 4K is the way to go.
Q4: Are these cameras suitable for outdoor use in all weather conditions?
A4: Many dedicated time-lapse cameras, like those with an IP66 rating, are designed to be highly weather-resistant against dust and strong jets of water, making them suitable for most outdoor conditions. Cameras with lower IP ratings (e.g., IPX4) offer splash resistance but might not withstand heavy rain or prolonged exposure. Always check the specific IP rating for outdoor reliability.
Q5: How do I calculate the right interval for my time-lapse project?
A5: The interval depends on how fast the action you’re capturing is and how long you want the final video to be. For fast-moving events (traffic, clouds), shorter intervals (1-5 seconds) work. For slow events (construction, plant growth), longer intervals (5 minutes to an hour) are better. A common formula is: (Total Recording Time in Seconds / Desired Video Length in Seconds) / Frames Per Second (e.g., 30fps). This gives you the total number of photos needed, from which you can derive the interval.
Q6: Can I use a power bank to extend the battery life of these cameras?
A6: For action cameras, yes, many can be powered continuously by a USB power bank. For dedicated time-lapse cameras, some models might have a USB input for external power, while others rely solely on internal batteries. Always check the product specifications. For extremely long projects, internal battery power combined with efficient power management is often preferred to avoid external power interruptions.
Q7: What kind of storage do these cameras use, and how much do I need?
A7: Most time-lapse cameras use microSD cards. The required storage depends on the resolution, interval, and duration of your project. 4K footage will consume much more space than 1080P. For long-term projects, a 64GB or 128GB card is highly recommended to avoid running out of space before your project is complete.
