What Timelapse Camera Do I Need?

Find a timelapse camera for your project by working through these five questions. Start with how long you will film, then narrow your choice by image quality, power, storage and access.

1. How long will your project run?

Hours or days, with easy access? Start with the camera range and compare recording schedules and power requirements.

Weeks or months, or infrequent site visits? Explore long-term timelapse cameras. Plan how you will maintain power, retrieve footage and check the camera throughout the project. Runtime depends on the model, capture interval, settings and conditions.

2. What resolution do you need?

Compare 1080p cameras for Full HD output. Choose 4K cameras if you need higher-resolution output or more room to crop. Explore greater-than-4K cameras for additional image detail, checking each model's capture and export specifications.

3. Is mains power available?

Yes: check that your chosen camera supports an appropriate mains adapter, and plan safe, weather-protected installation.

No: compare battery and solar options. Solar performance depends on daylight, panel position and recording demands, so plan for low-light periods rather than assuming uninterrupted operation. Explore power supplies, batteries and solar options, then confirm compatibility with the exact camera model.

4. How will you store and collect footage?

If you can visit the camera, check its supported memory-card type, capacity and retrieval method. For longer projects, plan card changes or downloads before storage fills. Higher resolution and shorter capture intervals generally mean more data. Browse storage options and check the camera's specifications before choosing a card.

5. Do you need access away from the site?

No: prioritise local recording and a practical schedule for collecting footage.

Yes: explore remote-access timelapse cameras. Check each model's connection requirements, site coverage, upload features and any SIM, data or subscription costs. A Wi-Fi feature alone does not establish that a camera can be accessed from anywhere.

Choose your starting point

Compare long-term project cameras · Compare 4K cameras · Compare remote-access cameras

Before ordering, check the exact model and bundle contents for power, storage, mounting and connectivity requirements. Browse the camera range and compare your shortlist.