Introduction
The IZI Click Plus 5K action camera promises high-resolution recording, a wide field of view, and waterproof durability at a very attractive price point. This makes it an enticing option for budget-minded adventurers and vloggers seeking to capture their escapades. But is the IZI Click Plus too good to be true? We put the camera to the test to find out its pros and cons and whether it delivers on its promises.
Table of Contents
Unboxing and First Impressions
The IZI Click Plus 5K action camera arrives in a compact box with the camera itself nestled within a waterproof case. This is a welcome inclusion, especially for those planning to take the camera on aquatic adventures. Alongside the camera, you’ll find a decent selection of mounting accessories, a second battery, and a Type-C charging cable. The build quality feels plasticky but sturdy enough for everyday use. The camera itself is lightweight and compact, making it easy to mount on helmets, handlebars, or chests for capturing point-of-view footage.
IZI Click Plus 5K Action Camera Review Specifications:
- Image Sensor: 50MP (CMOS)
- Video Resolution: 5K@30fps, 4K@60fps, 1080p@120fps
- Photo Resolution: Up to 50MP interpolated
- Lens: 170° Super Wide Angle
- Image Stabilization: Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS)
- Display: 2.0″ IPS LCD touchscreen
- Waterproof: Up to 110 feet (33 meters)
- Battery: 2x 950mAh Li-ion batteries
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Micro USB
Features and Functionality
The IZI Click Plus 5K action camera boasts some impressive features on paper. The highlight is the ability to record 5K video at 30 fps, which is excellent for capturing detail in expansive landscapes. It also offers 4K recording at 60 fps for smoother action sequences. Photo capture comes in at a respectable 50 megapixels.
The camera features a 170-degree wide-angle lens, perfect for capturing sweeping vistas and immersive action shots. Built-in Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS) aims to smooth out shaky footage, a crucial feature for action cameras. For vloggers, a front-facing screen allows for easy framing of selfies.
In terms of usability, the IZI Click Plus operates through a combination of physical buttons and a 2.0-inch IPS display. The menu system is fairly intuitive, although some users might find the button layout a little cramped for navigating various settings. The camera is Wi-Fi enabled, allowing for connection to a smartphone app for easier control and file transfer.
Image Quality and Performance
Let’s delve into the most crucial aspect: image quality. In well-lit conditions, the IZI Click Plus delivers decent 5K footage. The wide-angle lens captures a good amount of detail, and the colors appear reasonably accurate. However, pushing the camera to its limits reveals some shortcomings. In low-light situations, the footage becomes noticeably grainy and soft. Additionally, the 5K resolution, while impressive on paper, might be overkill for most users considering the limitations of the sensor and bitrate. More practical options might be 1080p at 60fps for smoother action or 4K at 30fps for a good balance of detail and frame rate.
The built-in EIS partially mitigates shakiness, but it’s not perfect. For truly smooth action footage, an external gimbal stabilizer might be necessary. The 50MP photo mode produces acceptable results in good lighting, but detail gets noticeably softer in low-light conditions.
Shooting Modes and Features Galore
The IZI Click Plus 5K action camera comes equipped with a variety of shooting modes to cater to different action videography needs. Here are some highlights:
- Burst Photography: Capture rapid-fire sequences of images, perfect for freezing moments of high action.
- Loop Recording: Continuously record video in a loop, ideal for situations where you don’t want to miss a crucial moment but storage space is limited.
- Time Lapse: Condense long events into short, sped-up videos, showcasing the passage of time in a creative way.
- Slow Motion: Slow down the action for dramatic effect, allowing you to relive those epic moments in detail.
- Self-Timer: Capture yourself in action with a handy self-timer function.
Battery Life and Usability
The IZI Click Plus 5K action camera comes with two 950mAh batteries, which is a plus considering the camera’s budget price tag. However, battery life is moderate at best. Expect to get around 90 minutes of recording time on a single charge, depending on the resolution and frame rate used. This is sufficient for short outings, but frequent adventurers might need to invest in additional batteries.
The included Wi-Fi connectivity and smartphone app offer a convenient way to control the camera remotely and transfer files. The app itself is fairly basic but functional, allowing for adjusting settings, previewing footage, and downloading recorded videos and photos.
Value for Money
The IZI Click Plus’s biggest selling point is its affordability. Compared to established action camera brands, the IZI Click Plus offers similar features at a significantly lower price point. This makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious users who are just getting started with action cameras or who prioritize affordability over top-of-the-line performance.
Who is the IZI Click Plus for?
The IZI Click Plus 5K action camera caters primarily to budget-conscious users who prioritize affordability over top-tier image quality. For casual vloggers, hikers, or cyclists looking to capture basic point-of-view footage or scenic shots in good lighting, the IZI Click Plus offers a decent feature set at a very attractive price. The inclusion of a waterproof case and multiple mounting options further sweetens the deal for those seeking an action camera for light outdoor adventures.
However, if you prioritize professional-grade video quality, low-light performance, or absolute smoothness in action footage, then the IZI Click Plus might fall short of expectations. In such cases, it might be worth considering investing in a higher-end action camera from established brands like GoPro or DJI Osmo Action, which offer superior image quality and stabilization but come at a significantly higher cost.
Pros and Cons of the IZI Click Plus 5K
Pros:
- Affordable price point
- 5K and 4K recording options
- 170-degree wide-angle lens
- Dual batteries
- Waterproof case
- Multiple shooting modes
- Wi-Fi connectivity
Cons:
- Image quality can be soft, especially in low light
- EIS is good, but not perfect
- Plastic construction might not feel premium to some users
The Verdict: A Budget-Friendly Option
The IZI Click Plus 5K action camera offers a feature set that’s impressive for its price tag. The 5K capture capability, wide-angle lens, and support for an external microphone are noteworthy inclusions. However, image quality suffers in low light, and the effectiveness of the EIS system is questionable. Ultimately, the IZI Click Plus is a decent starter camera for casual adventurers. Carefully consider your needs and budget before deciding if the IZI Click Plus is the right action camera for you.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: What image quality can I expect from the IZI Click Plus 5K action camera?
The IZI Click Plus can capture decent footage in good lighting conditions, offering acceptable sharpness and color reproduction. However, in low light, video quality suffers, becoming grainy and losing detail in shadows.
Q: How effective is the Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS)?
The EIS helps mitigate minor bumps and vibrations but struggles with fast-paced action, resulting in potentially choppy or jittery footage. For activities requiring top-notch stabilization, the IZI Click Plus might not be ideal.
Q: Does the IZI Click Plus come with a remote control?
No, the IZI Click Plus does not include a remote control in the base package. You’ll need to operate the camera directly using the buttons or through the mobile app via Wi-Fi.
Q: What type of memory card does the IZI Click Plus 5K action camera use?
The IZI Click Plus uses a microSD card (not included) to store footage. Make sure to use a high-speed card with sufficient capacity for recording high-resolution videos.
Q: How long does the battery last on the IZI Click Plus?
Individual battery life is shorter than some competitors, especially when shooting at higher resolutions. The two included batteries provide some recording flexibility, but having a portable power bank is recommended for extended use.
Q: Can I use an external microphone with the IZI Click Plus?
Yes, the camera’s waterproof case features a port for an external microphone (not included). This can significantly improve audio quality, especially when wind noise is a concern.
Q: Is the IZI Click Plus waterproof without the case?
No, the IZI Click Plus is not waterproof on its own. The included waterproof case is necessary for underwater use. The case is rated for up to 110 feet of submersion.
