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Best Cheap Time Lapse Camera (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for a way to capture stunning time lapse footage without breaking the bank, a cheap time lapse camera may be just what you need. With advanced technology becoming increasingly affordable, there are a range of budget-friendly options available for the amateur filmmaker. However, before rushing to purchase the first camera you come across, there are a few factors you should consider to ensure you choose the right model for your needs.

Firstly, consider the resolution and frame rate of the camera. Make sure it is capable of recording high quality footage at a suitable speed for your intended use. Also, think about the camera’s battery life, storage capacity and ease of use. These aspects can have a big impact on both the effectiveness and convenience of your filming experience.

If you’re still not convinced, ask yourself some questions: Have you ever been captivated by a beautiful time lapse sequence in a film or documentary? Do you want to capture the stunning motion of nature over long periods of time? Are you eager to experiment with creative filmmaking techniques? If you answered yes to any of these, investing in a cheap time lapse camera could be the perfect solution for you. Plus, with prices becoming more accessible, it’s now easier than ever to bring your creative ideas to life.

10 Best Cheap Time Lapse Camera

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
The product is ideal for capturing time-lapse footage of outdoor construction projects in high definition and weatherproof conditions.
2
Ideal for capturing time-lapse footage of construction and outdoor security with a long battery life and water-resistant case.
3
The product is ideal for capturing high-quality time-lapse videos of indoor plants, construction sites, and weather conditions.
4
The product is ideal for capturing high-quality time-lapse footage of construction or surveillance purposes with its accessories and long battery life.
5
Ideal for creating timelapse videos of outdoor construction sites and securing properties with its long battery life and weather-resistant case.
6
Ideal for capturing time-lapse footage of outdoor construction, plant growth, weather patterns, and daily life with its high-definition camera.
7
Ideal for capturing professional quality time-lapse photos and videos of construction, outdoor security, plant growth and tourism records with long battery life.
8
This product is ideal for capturing time-lapse footage of construction and outdoor security with a long battery life.
9
The product is ideal for capturing time-lapse footage of outdoor construction projects with high-quality video, extended battery life, and weatherproof casing.
10
Ideal for capturing high-quality time-lapse videos with a flexible schedule, making it great for long-term indoor projects.
The product is ideal for capturing time-lapse footage of outdoor construction projects in high definition and weatherproof conditions.
Ideal for capturing time-lapse footage of construction and outdoor security with a long battery life and water-resistant case.
The product is ideal for capturing high-quality time-lapse videos of indoor plants, construction sites, and weather conditions.
The product is ideal for capturing high-quality time-lapse footage of construction or surveillance purposes with its accessories and long battery life.
Ideal for creating timelapse videos of outdoor construction sites and securing properties with its long battery life and weather-resistant case.
Ideal for capturing time-lapse footage of outdoor construction, plant growth, weather patterns, and daily life with its high-definition camera.
Ideal for capturing professional quality time-lapse photos and videos of construction, outdoor security, plant growth and tourism records with long battery life.
This product is ideal for capturing time-lapse footage of construction and outdoor security with a long battery life.
The product is ideal for capturing time-lapse footage of outdoor construction projects with high-quality video, extended battery life, and weatherproof casing.
Ideal for capturing high-quality time-lapse videos with a flexible schedule, making it great for long-term indoor projects.

1. Brinno Empower Camera: Advanced Outdoor Construction Companion

The Brinno time lapse camera is designed to provide an easy solution for creating long-term time lapse videos in any environment. With its one-button approach, it allows for effortless scheduling of filming days and times. This camera is equipped with a schedule function that lets you pick the desired filming days and time intervals.

Brinno provides professional quality time lapse videos with full HD resolution. The camera is protected from rain and construction dust with its IP67 waterproof housing (ATH1000) ensuring that the camera remains safe and secure in any environment. It is a perfect solution for off-the-grid jobsites and hard-to-reach installations.

One of the most impressive features of this time lapse camera is its 99-day battery life which allows for uninterrupted filming for up to 99 days (5-minute interval). The camera is equipped with a sturdy mount kit (AWM1000) that makes it easy to install the camera in any desired location with the help of bungee cords. It is suitable for both indoor and outdoor filming locations.

Brinno offers a 1-year warranty on this time lapse camera. Their customer service team is always available to help you with any questions or issues that you might face with the camera, so you can stay covered and protected.

Pros

  • Easy one-button approach to creating time lapse videos
  • Professional quality full HD time lapse footage
  • IP67 waterproof housing to keep the camera safe from environmental elements
  • Long battery life of up to 99 days (5-minute interval)
  • Sturdy mount kit for easy installation in any desired location
  • Suitable for both indoor and outdoor filming locations
  • 1-year warranty for added peace of mind

2. Plant Trio Time Lapse Bundle: Brinno Bcc200

Capture stunning time-lapse videos with the Superior BCC200. This camera boasts a battery life of up to 80 days with just four AA batteries, making it perfect for extended projects. You can record over two months of progress with just one charge! The camera captures high-quality 720p HDR video with its 1.3MP sensor and interchangeable CS mount, ensuring you don't miss anything. The time-lapse function is automatic and ready to use, capturing real-time video instead of a series of pictures. Editing your finished video is a breeze, as it's saved in an easy-to-read file format that works with any editing software. The camera is also safe for outdoor use with its ATH120 weather-resistant housing unit that has an IPX4 rating, making it perfect for any outdoor project. The camera comes with a weather-resistant housing case, an industrial-grade clamp, a rubber strap for easy carrying, a 4GB SD card, four AA batteries, and a user manual, so you can start using your gear right away.

Pros

  • Long battery life of up to 80 days with just four AA batteries
  • Captures high-quality 720p HDR video with its 1.3MP sensor and interchangeable CS mount
  • Automatic time-lapse function captures real-time video
  • Easy-to-read file format works with any editing software
  • Safe for outdoor use with its ATH120 weather-resistant housing unit that has an IPX4 rating
  • Comes with a weather-resistant housing case, an industrial-grade clamp, a rubber strap for easy carrying, a 4GB SD card, four AA batteries, and a user manual

3. Atli Time Lapse Cam: Shoot Stunning Timelapse Videos!

aTLi is a Full HD time-lapse camera that captures photo sequence files and automatically generates time-lapse video. With its user-friendly interface and built-in software, creating and downloading time-lapse videos to your device has never been easier. Share your creations instantly on your favorite social media platforms.

The world's first camera capable of producing time slice photos, aTLi allows you to see the passage of time in a single photo. Simply choose and click to make amazing time slice photos.

aTLi offers maximum flexibility with its live preview ongoing shoot and various shooting modes to adapt to different scenarios. The accompanying app, "aTLi," allows for easy camera setup and control.

With its macro shooting capability and 1.4s shutter speed, aTLi can capture up-close shots of your favorite plants or magnificent starry sky or dazzling city light streaks. The camera comes pre-installed with a 16GB card and can support up to a 128GB Micro SD card (not included).

Perfect for capturing dynamic processes like sunrise and sunset, clouds rolling, flowers blooming, plants growing, and building construction, aTLi is applicable to multiple scenes. Use it to test the lighting of a scene or the appropriate shooting time period before using expensive professional equipment for time-lapse videos.

Pros

  • Easy to use with built-in software
  • Creates and downloads time-lapse videos easily
  • Ability to share on social media instantly
  • World's first camera capable of producing time slice photos
  • Live preview and various shooting modes for flexibility
  • Macro shooting capability and fast shutter speed
  • 16GB card included with support for up to 128GB Micro SD card
  • Applicable to multiple scenes

4. Brinno's Hd Time Lapse Camera Bundle

The Easy Time Lapse Camera Bundle is a professional and easy-to-use solution for creating high-quality time-lapse videos. With full HD (1080P) resolution, you can create stunning videos without the need for post-editing. The camera is designed to be user-friendly, allowing you to set it up quickly and start filming in no time.

The Extender Kit's 32-ft cable allows you to preview the camera frame, change settings, and check remaining battery life and SD card memory from your laptop. This feature is available on Windows only, and you need a 64-bit operating system to use it. The simultaneous record and download system enables you to view and download camera files through your laptop instantly.

The camera bundle is perfect for filming multi-month projects, as it can provide up to 1-year of power on a single set of batteries with a 5-minute interval. You can set it up and forget about it, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your project.

The all-in-one bundle includes a professional time-lapse camera, access to command and control computer platform (Windows only; 64-bit OS), a 32-ft camera extender, IPX5 waterproof housing, and a stainless steel mounting clamp. With all these components, you'll have everything you need to get started on your time-lapse project.

Pros

  • Easy to use and set up
  • Produces high-quality full HD (1080P) time-lapse videos
  • Allows previewing and changing camera settings from a laptop
  • Simultaneous record and download system for faster data transfer
  • Provides up to 1-year of power on a single set of batteries with a 5-minute interval
  • Comes with all necessary components for a complete time-lapse solution

5. Brinno Trio Cam: Secures & Chronicles Construction Sites

The Brinno construction and outdoor time-lapse camera is an excellent choice for long-term outdoor construction projects and security surveillance where Wi-Fi is not needed. It comes with a 1080P camera, waterproof housing, and a clamp for easy monitoring. The camera has a battery life of up to one year, making it perfect for extended projects. The spacious weather-resistant case can hold up to 16 extra batteries, ensuring that your projects are recorded for up to one year with maximum protection. The enclosure also includes a CS-mount for interchangeable lens and solar panel compatibility.

The camera is easy to set up with the daily timer and schedule settings. It records timelapse HDR videos that are ready to share with the push of a button. The wireless setup is ideal for job sites or off-the-grid areas and provides privacy of data. The stainless steel clamp is rust-resistant and has a "magic arm" that extends the range of the clamp to adjust to large surfaces at a project site. The 360° rotating ball joint with 90° tilt allows you to shoot from any desired angle.

The Brinno camera bundles combine brilliant innovation with premium hardware for custom timelapse, security, or event videos. The product comes with a one-year warranty from the date of purchase against defects under use as instructed by the user’s manual.

Pros

  • Long battery life of up to one year
  • Spacious weather-resistant case with room for 16 extra batteries
  • Wireless setup ideal for job sites or off-the-grid areas
  • Stainless steel clamp is rust-resistant and has a "magic arm" to adjust to large surfaces
  • CS-mount for interchangeable lens and solar panel compatibility
  • 360° rotating ball joint with 90° tilt allows you to shoot from any desired angle
  • One-year warranty

6. Dsoon Weathercam: Outdoor Time Lapse Experience.

Capture stunning time-lapse videos with the TL2100 time-lapse camera that offers multiple shooting modes. The camera can automatically connect to AVI video through timed photo or timed video, or manually control the photo or video to form a video. The infinite loop mode can loop shooting, and the oldest document will be deleted when the card is nearly full.

The camera is equipped with a 2.4-inch high-definition TFT LCD screen, a 110° starlight lens, and a 120° 2W white light LED. It can auto-focus under the starlight or moon halo lens and can shoot color and high-brightness time-lapse video files. The resolution can be 1920*1080 or 1280*720, making it easy to shoot stunning videos.

The camera has a waterproof rating of IP66, making it suitable for use in rain and fog. With a time interval of 5 minutes to take one shot, 288 shots per day, it can take up to six months. The product supports up to 512GB TF memory card, ensuring that you will never run out of storage space. When the memory card is full, the camera will automatically stop taking pictures, video recording, and turn off the LED light.

With the TL2100 time-lapse camera, you get a 32GB TF card, a USB data cable, a cleaning cloth, a one-meter elastic cord, two brackets, and a user manual. The product warranty period is 12 months, and if you encounter any problems during use, the manufacturer offers timely support.

Pros

  • Multiple shooting modes allow for flexible and easy shooting
  • 2.4-inch high-definition TFT LCD screen for clear and easy viewing
  • Waterproof rating of IP66 makes it suitable for use in rain and fog
  • Supports up to 512GB TF memory card, ensuring that you will never run out of storage space
  • Product warranty period of 12 months and timely support in case of any problems

7. Pro Capture 1080p Time Lapse Camera

Capture stunning time-lapse photos and videos effortlessly with this professional time-lapse camera. It offers a multitude of shooting modes like timed shooting, regular shooting, loop shooting, and more to cater to different shooting needs. With the option to set the shooting interval from 1s-24hours, you can customize your time-lapse photography to your liking. Plus, the camera can automatically compose a video for direct viewing or transmission without any post-editing required.

Equipped with the most advanced light-sensitive chip, 120°Starlight wide-angle lens, and HDR Sensor, this camera delivers excellent image quality. You can capture clear images even in low light conditions, as well as colorful, high-brightness FHD video and pictures under starlight and moonlight. The camera also supports up to 512G memory expansion, ensuring that you never run out of storage space.

Worried about the power of long shots? This time-lapse camera has got you covered. It has a longer continuous shooting time of up to 180 days when taking a photo every five minutes in time-lapse photo mode. You'll need 12 AA batteries to operate the camera (not included), but you can also buy solar power panels and DC power for charging.

Designed to withstand harsh outdoor environments, this time-lapse camera features IP66 shell protection that makes it dustproof and waterproof. It's perfect for engineering construction, plant growth, outdoor video, security monitoring, and other use scenarios. Additionally, the camera comes with a 2.7-inch HD screen that lets you view the pictures and videos you've taken. You can also transfer the data to other devices through the USB cable to save and share.

Pros

  • Multiple time-lapse photography modes available to cater to different shooting needs
  • Excellent image quality with advanced light-sensitive chip, 120°Starlight wide-angle lens, and HDR Sensor
  • Longer continuous shooting time of up to 180 days in time-lapse photo mode
  • IP66 shell protection makes it dustproof and waterproof, suitable for harsh outdoor environments
  • Comes with a 2.7-inch HD screen and supports up to 512G memory expansion

Cons

  • – Requires 12 AA batteries to operate (not included)

8. Outdorpro Cam Trio: Secures Time-Lapse Footage

The Brinno BCC200 time-lapse video camera is perfect for construction, small or large-scale projects, providing superior quality and reliability. The camera captures stunning 720p HDR video with a 1.3 MP sensor and interchangeable CS mount lens, as well as offering stop-motion and still photography options. The camera system features an industry-leading battery life of up to 80 days using only four AA batteries, allowing you to record over two months of progress without the need for cumbersome cables. The weatherproof casing and rugged construction make this camera a perfect companion to any outdoor worksite. The two-pack bundle includes two cameras and mounts to ensure complete coverage of your event, project, or construction site, and an industrial-grade clamp for easy mounting anywhere. With an intuitive user manual, 4GB SD card, and 4 AA batteries included, the Brinno BCC200 time-lapse video camera is easy to set up and use straight out of the box. Add to cart now and never miss another moment.

Pros

  • Superior quality and reliability
  • Stunning 720p HDR video with interchangeable lens options
  • Industry-leading battery life of up to 80 days using only 4 AA batteries
  • Weatherproof casing and rugged construction make it suitable for any outdoor worksite
  • Two-pack bundle provides complete coverage with two cameras and mounts
  • Automatic and easy-to-use time-lapse function
  • Comes with an industrial-grade clamp for easy mounting anywhere
  • Intuitive user manual, 4GB SD card, and 4 AA batteries included

9. Construction Time-Lapse Camera With Mount & Waterproof Case

Capture the perfect time-lapse video with the TLC300 from Brinno. This professional camera is designed for job sites, outdoor projects, and all-purpose applications. It boasts an automatic time-lapse function that produces real-time videos, not just a series of pictures. The camera features a 118° field of view and a Micro SD card that supports up to 128GB. Plus, the multilingual user interface is available in 8 languages, making it easy for all customers to use.

The TLC300 is incredibly easy to use. Brinno has improved its user interface to make it more straightforward for professional and general-purpose users alike. All you need to do is set up your "interval" and "schedule", and then press OK to begin recording. With the new schedule function, you can choose filming days and times, so it only records during working hours. There is a 1.44" crystal IPS LCD screen display on the back of the camera, allowing you to check the view angle without needing to take a second look.

The TLC300 is also energy efficient. It only requires 4 AA batteries, which can last up to 100 days using a 5-min capture interval. You won't have to worry about battery power again when shooting long-term projects.

This camera delivers explicit image quality, with full HD 1080P and the HDR feature enabled. It can record time-lapse videos from day to night, making it perfect for all kinds of projects, from remodels to planting and gardening to DIY projects. The TLC300 series inherits the pros from the previous BCC200 series but includes upgrades to the resolution that enhance image quality even further. You can even create time-lapse videos yourself with the interchangeable lens included.

Brinno stands behind its products, and the TLC300 is no exception. The product comes with a 1-year warranty from the date of purchase against defects under use as instructed by the user’s manual. In addition to the TLC300 time-lapse camera, you'll receive a waterproof Housing (ATH120), clampod, 2 bungee cords, 4 AA batteries, SD card, lens cover, and a quick guide manual.

Pros

  • Automatic time-lapse function produces real-time videos
  • Multilingual user interface available in 8 languages
  • Improved user interface for easy operation
  • Energy efficient with only 4 AA batteries required
  • Full HD 1080P and HDR feature for explicit image quality
  • Interchangeable lens included for creating custom time-lapse videos
  • 1-year warranty for peace of mind

10. Long-Life Time Lapse Camera For Indoor Projects

Capture stunning professional videos with the Professional Time-Lapse Camera that features a 1080P HDR and 118° field of view. With its innovative technology, videos can be instantly shared, making it perfect for long-term projects. The camera's 3 mode versatility allows users to capture timelapse, step video, and stop motion, providing ultimate creative freedom to create their own footage. Record up to 99 days using a 5-min shooting interval with only 4AA batteries, and extend the battery life by double using the daily timer and scheduling feature to select the days and hours to be recorded. The camera also features powerful HDR and FHD sensors that select optimum lighting to capture videos outdoors or indoors, daytime or night. Attach interchangeable lenses to the CS mount to capture environmental changes or detailed plant progression videos. Brinno provides customers with regular firmware and software updates, and the camera includes a 30-day money-back guarantee and a 1-year warranty that can be extended for an additional 6 months if registered.

Pros

  • Long battery life of up to 99 days using a 5-min shooting interval with only 4AA batteries
  • Innovative technology allows videos to be instantly shared
  • 3 mode versatility allows users to capture timelapse, step video and stop motion
  • Powerful HDR and FHD sensors select optimum lighting to capture videos outdoors or indoors, daytime or night
  • Interchangeable lenses can be attached to the CS mount to capture environmental changes or detailed plant progression videos
  • Regular firmware and software updates provided by Brinno
  • 30-day money-back guarantee and 1-year warranty included, extendable for an additional 6 months if registered

Best Cheap Time Lapse Camera FAQs

Are there any budget-friendly time lapse cameras with high-quality image resolution?

Yes, there are budget-friendly time lapse cameras available in the market with high-quality image resolution. However, the quality of the camera would depend on the price range and brand you choose. Some of the popular budget-friendly time lapse cameras with high-quality image resolution are GoPro Hero9 Black, Brinno TLC200 Pro, and Campark ACT74 Action Camera.

The GoPro Hero9 Black offers excellent image quality with 5K resolution, 20-megapixel photos, and a time-lapse mode. It is waterproof and can be used for various outdoor activities.

The Brinno TLC200 Pro is a compact camera with a 1.3-megapixel sensor and a time-lapse mode. It is easy to use and can capture high-quality images.

Campark ACT74 Action Camera is another budget-friendly option with a 16-megapixel sensor and a time-lapse mode. It is waterproof and comes with various mounting options for outdoor activities.

In conclusion, there are several budget-friendly time lapse cameras with high-quality image resolution available in the market. It is important to research and compare the features and specifications of various cameras before making a purchase.

Can I find a reliable time lapse camera for a low cost?

Yes, it is possible to find a reliable time lapse camera at a low cost. However, it depends on your specific needs and expectations. The first step is to determine the purpose of your time lapse project and the type of camera you need. There are various time lapse cameras available in the market, ranging from basic to advanced models, and each has its own set of features and capabilities.

If you are looking for a budget-friendly option, you may consider purchasing a basic time lapse camera that offers standard features such as adjustable intervals, automatic exposure control, and image stabilization. These cameras may not have all the bells and whistles of high-end models, but they can still produce high-quality time lapse videos.

Another option is to look for refurbished or used time lapse cameras that are available at a lower cost. However, make sure to check the condition of the camera and its warranty before making a purchase.

In summary, it is possible to find a reliable time lapse camera at a low cost, but it requires some research and careful consideration of your specific needs and expectations.

How can I get the most value for my money when shopping for a time lapse camera on a budget?

When shopping for a time lapse camera on a budget, it is important to consider a few factors to ensure that you get the most value for your money. Firstly, consider the features that are most important to you. Do you need a high resolution camera or will a lower resolution one suffice? Do you need a camera with a wide angle lens or a zoom lens? These factors will affect the price of the camera and should be considered based on your intended use.

Secondly, look for deals and discounts. Many online retailers and electronics stores offer discounts and coupons that can help you save money on your purchase. You can also consider buying a used or refurbished camera, which can often be significantly cheaper than buying new.

Lastly, read reviews and compare prices from different retailers to ensure that you are getting the best value for your money. Look for cameras with positive reviews and a good reputation for reliability.

By considering these factors and taking advantage of deals and discounts, you can find a time lapse camera that fits your budget while still providing the features and quality that you need.

What are some affordable time lapse cameras on the market?

There are several affordable time lapse cameras available in the market. One of the popular options is the Brinno TLC200 Pro, which is budget-friendly and easy to use. It features a 1.3-megapixel camera that provides high-quality images and videos, and it can capture up to 45 days of footage on one set of AA batteries. Another option is the GoPro HERO8 Black, which is a bit more expensive than the Brinno TLC200 Pro but offers excellent value for money. It has a 12-megapixel camera that can record 4K videos at 60 frames per second, making it ideal for professional use. Other affordable options include the Sony HDR-AS50, which has a rugged design and can capture high-quality footage in various lighting conditions, and the Akaso Brave 4, which is a budget-friendly option that offers good value for money. Overall, there are several affordable time lapse cameras available that cater to different needs and budgets.

What features should I look for in an inexpensive time lapse camera?

When looking for an inexpensive time lapse camera, there are a few features that you should consider to ensure you get the best value for your money. Firstly, consider the camera's image quality. A good time lapse camera should have high-resolution capabilities to capture clear and detailed images.

Secondly, look for a camera that has a long battery life or the option to use external power sources. Time lapse photography can be a lengthy process, so you don't want to be constantly changing batteries or running out of power mid-shoot.

Another important feature to consider is the camera's interval settings. A good time lapse camera should allow you to set the time intervals between shots to suit your specific needs.

Lastly, consider the camera's durability and weather resistance. If you plan to take your time lapse camera on outdoor adventures, it should be able to withstand harsh weather conditions and accidental drops.

Overall, while an inexpensive time lapse camera may not have all the bells and whistles of a high-end model, it should still have good image quality, long battery life, customizable interval settings, and be durable enough to handle outdoor conditions.

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