I’m overall happy with this camera for it’s intended purpose, which is a dedicated action camera. I have tested it on a motorcycle at high speed and through fast curves and was generally impressed with the image quality and improved sound over some of the other action cameras I own. That being said, this camera is not intended for casual filming such as conversations as the microphone is sealed in the camera, resulting in a lower mic pick up of soft sounds such as voices. However, those situations would be better served by your phone camera anyway so this is not a mark against this camera as it is an action camera and a good one.
The things I liked about the camera. First, right away, I was impressed with the overall construction and materials of the camera. The polymer construction used resembles that which is used in pelican protective cases or in the firearm industry. It is not like cheap plastic found on previous generation cameras. It feels very industrial and sturdy in nature, in a good way. I am sure you will find the same. This being said, I measured the weight of this camera to be 120.75 grams all in. Comparably, with a GoPro camera in the standard waterproof case, I measured to be 169.5 grams. My dragon touch vision 3 weighed in at 116.62 frames in its protective case and at 72.85 grams with no protective case. My GoPro sessions, which does not use a protective case but is only waterproof to 10 meters weighed in at 88.5 grams. Given that this camera comes in lower in weight and similar to the previous generation vision 3, but is much more durable feeling, I would say that this camera wins on construction and weight.
I have not taken this camera diving yet, however I did leave it at the bottom of a hot jacuzzi for 1 hour and there was no moisture or condensation inside, so I believe that the waterproof claims of this camera will hold up to recreational diving conditions a normal diver would encounter. I would have no worries about water proofing taking this camera spear fishing or lobster hunting.
I was also impressed that the design of the camera has the latch opening rearward, so if there were an impact or accidental touch of the latch, it would not accidentally open under water.
Additionally, the outer lens is recessed approx 2mm behind the lense bezel, so it is somewhat protected. The inner lens is fully protected. I hope they offer replacement outer lenses in case it is damaged as it would be easy to replace should something happen.
Also to not, the outer lenses is flat, not convex, so there is no fish eye effect on the image what so ever. Another good design feature. In my test on my motorcycle the edges of the image and lines on the side of the road were perfectly straight when they were supposed to be and gave an accurate reproduction. Another good success for this camera.
The control buttons in the camera also were good on this camera. They are big enough and responsive enough to be used while wearing gloves. I was able to operate them while wearing thick leather gloves. Snow gloves should be no problem. I like the buttons on this camera better than either of my GoPro cameras.
The only thing I can think of that may be missing is an anchor point to which attach a lanyard as a safety measure should the camera become dislodged from its mounts. I suppose one could used the metal hinge pin that supports the latch, but I would prefer a dedicated anchor point away from any hinge. This is not a deal breaker by any means because the hinge pin will work, but something to consider for my next point.
The camera uses a metal screw in mounting post instead of a built in mounting base. The mount adapter screws into a threaded metal recess into the camera and is held firm by a separate lock ring I did not gave any failures, but I would definitely use blue loc-tite or thread locker and semi permanently affix the mount adapter for safety. Again, this is not a deal breaker and can be viewed as a positive because loc-tite works and in the event the mount adapter was ever damaged, it could be replaced.
One thing I found a little annoying, or troubling is there indicator light on the FRONT. Of the camera. My issue with this is that I had the camera mounted to my helmet and was utilizing my mirrors to confirm weather the camera was on and recording and was unable to do this without using the app. I use a GoPro sessions on my helmet 100% of the time shine riding and like that it has a forward facing led to indicate recording. It also has 1 button on and off and starts recording with 1 press of the button. I use this in traffic to record dangerous intersections and while riding and I just want to capture short sections of road. This can be accomplished by using the app, but the camera must remain on or you must become familiar with using the 2 buttons to start it up and record. The other issue is the notification tones are not super loud so it left me questioning if it was on or not while I was wearing it on my helmet with my motor running. In other situations I liked that the tones were not excessively loud though.
I was happy with the image quality and liked the ability to adjust the field of view or angle from wide, medium or narrow. It is set to wide as standard, but I think most people will find that medium and narrow are preferred as they give a more natural view of what your eye sees. I also zoomed in a little. This is true for almost all cameras even dslr cameras as they give a view that is actually wider than what your eye truly sees. Like if you stepped back a few steps to get the whole scene in your photo. When filming something directly in front of you in an action scenario, this is not feneralky what you want as you want to reproduce what you saw. The medium and narrow field of views accomplish this, especially when zoomed in one or two small steps.
I was happy with the cameras sensors ability to adjust while in use to varying lighting levels and transitioning between full sun and shade was accomplished quickly and accurately.
The app this camera uses for your phone is simple, but functions. I was able to use it to initiate recording, switch between modes, adjust the camera settings and turn the camera off. Activating the WiFi on the camera for app use was simple as holding down the up button on the camera. Transfer of files to your phone occures in real time, as it does with my gopros and all other cameras, so a 5 minute video would take about the same time to download to your phone. This is fine as it is the same on all cameras.
I was able to dowload the video files, edit them in iMovie and publish them to media sites all through my phone. I also have access to GoPro producing apps and had no trouble using GoPro quick to make other videos that produces.
Another good feature of this camera is that it comes with replaceable batteries that are a common battery you can buy on amazon for cheap and a separate charger for charging batteries while outside the camera. You can still charge while a battery is in the camera, but not with the case closed.
Additionally, this camera comes with a ton of mounting options, more than what is listed as included I believe. The mounts have a good design, and I would say some of them are more innovative than the ones offered as additional expenses by GoPro. Another benefit of this camera. One issue is that while setting up one of the mounts, the bolt and nut used to Daren them were not threaded perfectly. The metal nut is actually molded into the mount. This resulted in the nut inside the mount becoming loose and rotating freely while attempting to fasten it secure. I contacted dragontouch and they have offered to replace it for free. Just a note though when first threading the nuts and boots for the first time as the threads are not perfect. Care must be taken on the first fitting to avoid dislodging the nut.
My final impressions on this camera is that it is a good value and has a good feature set. It is durable, and more compact and lighter than a similarly equipped GoPro with a case on, though slightly larger than a GoPro with no protective case. I did not notice it hanging off the side of my helmet and will continue to rotate it in my cameras along with my GoPro session depending on what I want to accomplish. I think that someone who was somewhat price conscious and not brand sensitive and did not care about the GoPro producing apps or already has access to them would very much enjoy this camera for ACTION uses.
I purchased the Dragon Touch 3 in May. I used it for scuba diving and was very impressed with the results (see my review of that product). Since then I bought a chin mount for my motorcycle helmet and used the camera to take videos on rides. I was pretty happy with the quality, although one thing which really frustrated me was the wide angle making everything look far away. You would have to get right up to things for them to not look tiny, which was a bit annoying when diving, and impossible when on the bike. I just purchased this newer model in the hope of solving that problem. It has multiple viewing angles so that you don't just have a fish eye lens perspective, and also a zoom function so that objects appear closer without having to get closer. Both of these options make the camera more complete. In honesty I slightly misinterpreted the variable angle to mean that you can adjust the lens, like on a DLSR, which you cant. It's more like adjusting the aspect ration, but its still a wide angled lens. Thus I think you have to play around with the viewing angle and zoom to get the perspective you want. It would be nice to have a separate model that isn't wide angle, but this is a good compromise. You have 4K with this model, although the downside is that 4K is only available with 30fps. Would be nice to see 60 fps 4K but maybe at this price point thats an unreasonable expectation.
I tried to take some videos on my motorcycle using the wrist remote, but they didn't work unfortunately. Really not sure why, perhaps I misunderstood how to start recording. It worked for the camera shots, which I included. Kind of bad timing since its winter here so I now have to put my bike in storage, but hopefully I can update my review at a later date when I have some more videos.
Only other real difference as far as I can tell is that there's no longer a case. This makes it more sleek, which is nice, and the buttons are easier to use. Only downside is that the hole for the bolt definitely needs to be deeper, as the camera will unscrew with the slightest turn. The way you download photos is similar to the last one, using the app. Really wish you could just read from the card, but when you format it in the camera the card is no longer recognized, at least with macs, so you have to use the app, which is pretty confusing to be honest since all the files are jumbled up. Minor inconvenience I guess.
I am loving this case free camera! Waterproof to 131 feet means it is more than safe when snorkeling in 15 or 20 feet, playing on the beach, our if caught in a rain storm. More important to me is the level of dust protection that it will provide. This is my second Dragon camera. The first I picked up at the last minute before an epic 4100 mile motorcycle trip when my GoPro Hero 4 died (just out of warranty). The Dragon was an unknown but a new GoPro wasn't in the budget. It performed flawlessly mounted to my bike or on my helmet but I had to contend with a separate case. This new model is even better with what is basically an integrated case. It is easy to operate (who says you can't teach an old dog new tricks) with a host of features. The included remote comes in handy, and it is a nice extra you don't have to buy! When this new model came out I had to buy it. Now I can switch between cameras without having to move between mounts. I am guessing this model is more efficient as well since the battery last longer. It has plenty of settings to customize how you capture and what you see. By using the App you can see what the camera sees, comes in handy when mounted somewhere and you can't see the display, like on your helmet. They recommend using up to a 64GB Class 10 micro sd card but I have had no issues using a 128GB card. It comes with more than enough mounting accessories to get you started and there are lots of inexpensive kits available. I REALLY like the cam lock mount over the standard GoPro style which needs the security plug to be sure it stays latched in place (see photo). That being said it still works with standard GoPro mounts. Can't wait to get some road time to try out the new settings and water protection (not that it ever rains here in sunny Florida).
I have just purchased and received my second action camera – the DragonTouch Action Camera Vision 5. My first action camera I purchased was the Vision 3 model. The new Vision 5 has a much improved industrial design, inside and out. The biggest change in the design is the camera body – it's waterproof. You don't need a bulky waterproof case. The insertion of the battery and SD card into the camera body is easier to do than in the Vision 3 model. I love using the smart phone app to remotely-control the camera. The Instruction Manual is more informative than the Vision 3 one. My new camera came with two longer-lasting batteries and other accessories. Why did I want another action camera? In my photography and video business, I need the ability to shoot a scene with multiple cameras to record two points-of-view. This ability saves time and money. DragonTouch has made it possible for me to own an action camera with its great price and with the same features of the top of the line 4K action cameras. I highly recommend to the pro and amateur this new camera – the DragonTouch Action Camera Vision 5.
I bought their earlier model (Vision 3) and loved it. I wanted a second one for recording forward and back at the same time and decide to try the latest model Vision 5. It's a worthy upgrade and I love that I don't need to put it in a waterproof case. The wifi connected easily and the menu navigation is intuitive. The camera comes with a generous supply of accessories which is a huge plus. I can't wait to take this on my next scuba trip.
Feature Product
- No Need Extra Waterproof Case: Tough durable outer shell, 131ft underwater waterproof, allows you to dive as deep as almost 40 meters. Ideal companion for extreme sports such as surfing, diving etc. (Tips: Owing to the tough shell, please hard press the buttons when using.)
- Multiple Modes Available: Video/Photo/ Slow Motion/Playback/Settings. Professional 4K/30FPS, 2.7K/30FPS, 1080P/60FPS video and 16MP photo resolution enables you to capture exciting moments. Vision 5 also supports zoom range from 1.0X to 4.0X.
- Internet Connections: Built-in Wifi & HDMI allows you to edit and share your videos and images easily. Just need to download the app (XDV) on your phone or tablet and then connect with vision 5 action camera. WiFi signal ranges up to 10 meters. HDMI output allows videos playback on the TV.
- Adjustable View Angle: The view angle of vision 5 action camera is able to be set to wide, medium or narrow according to your actual needs.
- Longer Battery Life: Vision 5 action camera comes with 2 rechargeable 1050mAh batteries. Each battery can record up to 90 minutes. Record longer, Record better.
Description
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I was very happy with the results. But what surprised me the most about this camera were the photos. They, like the video were super sharp. Many of these cameras just don't produce good photos but this one exceeded my expectations.
The construction is good. The camera felt sturdy and well made. The buttons didn't feel cheap and you had to press fairly hard to make them function. The camera itself is waterproof and it does not need a case like many others do. Overall I am very happy with the camera, but don't take my word for it, check out the YouTube video for the HD 4K results.
The shell material is a sturdy polymer, not cheap plastic. it's lightweight even with this very protective and waterproof shell which means it doesn't need any extra waterproof case. the design provides great protection for the lens and avoids some damage during the underwater sports.
I've not used it in diving yet and I will certainly try it later. But I've put it in a tub full of water, its waterproof function seems nice so far. The package includes all the necessary accessories. I love it with a remote control which could control the camera at a fair range. there's a red light indicates the recording state. The video quality is 4K which won't meet the expectation of some high-end customers but it's fine for me.
I'm very satisfied with the auto-adjustable of the lighting level. it won't make the video overexposed or underexposed. It comes with spare rechargeable batteries. it makes the charging have more flexibility. they provide a good solution for fixed installation. You also could download the video to your phone or PC, editing the video.
UPDATE: Because the changing port is inside of the front cover I cannot use this as a dashcam, unless I keep replacing the battery. Also, like the DT3, every time the battery is removed you must set the date/time...there is no internal CMOS battery.
I already own the Dragon Touch Vision 3, which I use as a motorcycle helmet cam. It's a lot cheaper than the GoPro and is above average quality than other budget cams. I was about to get a second Vision 3, but decided to check out the Vision 5 since it does not require a waterproof case and I can use all of the same accessories.
The menus and setup is the same as the Vision 3 and very easy to navigate. Instructions are available, but I did not need them. For the Vision 5 the micro SD card sits behind the battery and was a little tricky to secure at first, but I figured out after a couple minutes. You have to line up the notches of SD card, then lift and push upward slightly on the little aluminum cover. The software will tell if the SD card is properly seated. I've tested pretty much everything. I usually don't record or editing in 4K, but I was impressed with a couple short clips I recorded. Colors were fairly rich and motion was fluid. All other resolutions are very good for this price point. I'll post some samples later. Even when riding my motorcycle at high speeds I get clear fluid video. Also, the wide-angle lens is great new feature! The size and weight are slightly more than the Vision 3, but this is due to the waterproof casing. When you place the Vision 3 in its case the size and weight are then about the same. The Vision 5 is more rectangular-shaped versus the square-shaped Vision 3. All in all I'm highly satisfied with Vision 5's quality at this price point and highly recommend.
The first thing that you notice when you look at the Dragon Touch 4K Vision 5 Action Camera is its very rugged and sleek look. You are not afraid to handle it as you can feel that it is a solid and strong camera, and at the same time it looks very nice. Being waterproof it doesn't need the bulky waterproof case that other cameras come with.
I haven't had a chance yet to test the waterproofing properties of the camera but but the looks of the o-rings and clasps I would not be surprised that it will pass the test with flying colours once I get it wet.
One nice feature is the battery which lasted more than 2 hours of me playing around with the camera , taking videos, photos, using the wifi, uploading and deleting, testing the remote control and the phone app. To make the deal even sweeter it even comes with two batteries.
The insertion of the battery and of the SD card is pretty straight forward and easy, as is the formatting of the SD card.
The control buttons are nice and big and easy to find by feel even if needed, but I have found the shutter button to not be as responsive as I would like. Often I would need to press a bit to much, forcing the camera to move ever so slightly while taking the photo. That said as it is an action camera and is going to be used mostly with the wrist remote control that isn't a very big problem. I had a bit of problem getting used to the remote control but once I mastered it, it worked flawlessly.
It is also very nice to be able to take photos and videos using a smart phone. Though I will admit that I do not like the app XDV very much, I find it glitchy at times, slow to upload the photos, slow to open (too many steps to get it to start). I also do not like the fact that I won't work without location enabled. Once the app is running
though controlling the camera with it, is very easy.
Another negative point for me is the play back fucntion. The photos and videos are all jumbled. It would have been nice to be able to see the last photo taken as soon as you are on the play back section, instead of having to look for it by scrolling, I can;t see any logical way that they are stored and displayed.
I have been having problems with the sound with the videos (there's none) but I am hoping that it is easily rectified.
The camera does come with lots of cool useful mounting accessories.
First off shipping was extremely fast. I ordered this Camera Friday morning, and by Sunday afternoon the package was on my door step.
I chose the Dragon Touch version 5 because I already own version 3 and have been extremely pleased with it. I originally ordered the V3 for my son cause it was reasonably priced and felt it would be perfect for him to run around with. We have taken it to the pool amd he loves taking videos of him under water and coming down the slide. When I heard this one was waterproof up to 131ft without a case I figured it would be great to get one for myself.
Out the box the camera was a nice size and looked pretty sturdy. After placing the battery and sd card in the camera my daughter knocked it out my hand and it hit the ground. Didn't effect it a bit. Picked it up and started recording with no problem.
One thing I like on the V5 from the V3 is the button placement. The power and play button are both located on the top making it easier to cycle threw the different modes. I also like that there is a tripod mount on the bottom so you do not need to put it in a case to attach it to an accessory.
The resolution is great. I like being able to adjust the res for slow motion and regular video. I recently found out that you can zoom and starting to experiment with that feature. I have not had a chance to really test the waterproofing of the camera like I would like. Tend not to swim much in the winter but have taken it in the shower and submerged it in water to make sure that it is at least water resistant. I plan on taking it to the pool amd seeing how it holds up in the 12 feet section and also how it withstands the shock of the diving board.
So far I am loving the camera and extremely glad I made the purchase. I also purchased another V3 for my nephew as a Christmas present and cant wait to see the videos and pics he comes up with.