What To Know
- Choosing the right 360° camera can be a daunting task, especially when you’re faced with options like the Samsung Gear 360 2017 and the Z Cam E1.
- The Z Cam E1, on the other hand, takes a more professional approach with a boxier design and a larger footprint.
- The Gear 360 2017 can record for approximately 1 hour on a single charge, while the Z Cam E1 boasts a longer battery life of around 2 hours.
Choosing the right 360° camera can be a daunting task, especially when you’re faced with options like the Samsung Gear 360 2017 and the Z Cam E1. Both offer immersive experiences, but they cater to different needs and preferences. This comprehensive comparison will delve into their features, performance, and pros and cons to help you decide which one best suits your 360° video aspirations.
Design and Build
The Samsung Gear 360 2017 boasts a compact and lightweight design, making it incredibly portable. Its spherical shape with two fisheye lenses on opposing sides gives it a distinct look. The Z Cam E1, on the other hand, takes a more professional approach with a boxier design and a larger footprint. It features two separate cameras mounted on a rig, offering greater flexibility in positioning and lens selection.
Image and Video Quality
The Samsung Gear 360 2017 captures 3840 x 1920 resolution video at 30fps, while the Z Cam E1 offers a higher resolution of 5760 x 2880 at 30fps. This translates to significantly sharper and more detailed footage from the Z Cam E1, especially when viewing on larger screens. Both cameras support 360° video stitching, seamlessly blending the two lens perspectives.
Features and Functionality
The Samsung Gear 360 2017 is designed for ease of use, with direct connectivity to smartphones and a dedicated mobile app for control and playback. It also features built-in stabilization, which helps to minimize shakiness in your footage. The Z Cam E1, being a more professional camera, offers greater control over settings like aperture, shutter speed, and ISO. It also supports external microphones and can be controlled remotely via a dedicated app.
Audio Recording
The Samsung Gear 360 2017 has built-in microphones for capturing audio, but the sound quality can be lacking, especially in noisy environments. The Z Cam E1, however, provides a dedicated audio input for external microphones, allowing for higher fidelity sound recording. This is crucial for professional-level productions where clear and crisp audio is essential.
Battery Life
Battery life is a critical factor for any camera, and both the Samsung Gear 360 2017 and the Z Cam E1 offer decent performance. The Gear 360 2017 can record for approximately 1 hour on a single charge, while the Z Cam E1 boasts a longer battery life of around 2 hours. However, the Z Cam E1’s battery life can be further extended with optional external batteries.
Versatility and Applications
The Samsung Gear 360 2017 is ideal for casual users who want to create immersive 360° videos for social media or personal memories. Its compact size and user-friendly interface make it easy to capture spontaneous moments. The Z Cam E1, on the other hand, is geared towards professionals and enthusiasts who need high-quality footage for commercial projects, virtual reality experiences, or documentaries. Its advanced features and flexibility make it a powerful tool for creating professional-grade content.
Price and Availability
The Samsung Gear 360 2017 is generally more affordable than the Z Cam E1, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers. However, the Z Cam E1’s higher price reflects its advanced features and professional capabilities. It’s essential to consider your budget and the intended use of the camera when making a decision.
The Final Verdict: Choosing the Right 360° Camera for You
Ultimately, the choice between the Samsung Gear 360 2017 and the Z Cam E1 depends on your individual needs and priorities. If you’re looking for a user-friendly and affordable 360° camera for casual use, the Samsung Gear 360 2017 is a great option. But if you need professional-grade footage, advanced features, and greater flexibility, the Z Cam E1 is the way to go.
Beyond the Comparison: Exploring Alternative 360° Cameras
While the Samsung Gear 360 2017 and the Z Cam E1 are excellent choices, the world of 360° cameras is constantly evolving. Other notable options include the Insta360 One X2, the GoPro Fusion, and the Ricoh Theta Z1. These cameras offer unique features and capabilities, so it’s worth exploring them to find the perfect fit for your specific requirements.
What You Need to Know
Q: Can I edit 360° footage from these cameras on my computer?
A: Yes, both the Samsung Gear 360 2017 and the Z Cam E1 produce footage that can be edited using specialized 360° video editing software. Popular options include Adobe Premiere Pro, DaVinci Resolve, and GoPro Fusion Studio.
Q: Can I live stream in 360° with these cameras?
A: The Samsung Gear 360 2017 does not support live streaming, but the Z Cam E1 offers live streaming capabilities through compatible platforms.
Q: What are the best ways to view 360° videos?
A: You can view 360° videos on smartphones, tablets, computers, and even virtual reality headsets. Many video platforms, including YouTube and Facebook, support 360° video playback.
Q: Is it difficult to learn how to use a 360° camera?
A: The Samsung Gear 360 2017 is designed for ease of use, with a simple interface and intuitive controls. The Z Cam E1, while more advanced, has a user-friendly interface and a wealth of online resources available for learning its features.