Ipevo sent me this camera some time ago for a review. I took my time with it, playing with it, using it in several different ways. If you are looking for a great way to create content for distance learning or digital learning, this is a great option for you! Read on to find out more….
This camera has been used both in my classroom and in my ham radio shack. I use it in both places in similar ways, and have been impressed with its abilities.
I find that in classrooms today, the need for a traditional “document camera” is diminishing. We are at a point where we can digitally send students a document, the need to project from a book sitting on a desk is rapidly disappearing. Now, that is not at all to say the need for this type of tool is going away. In fact, this camera fits perfectly in classrooms where creating and making are a major part of learning (as it should be).
I use this camera to demonstrate various techniques, such as soldering. There is no need to have students gather around you and try to peer over each others shoulders to see what you are doing. Instead, project it on a screen… and record it at the same time. That way, students can refer back to the video.
I use this camera as a mainstay on my YouTube channel. You can find my channel HERE. My channel focuses predominantly on ham radio, and I teach some ham radio basics. IN it, I often demonstrate various things. This camera provides a great overhead view of my workspace, with great clarity. The camera is an 8MP camera, so detail is not an issue. It takes very little desk space, in fact, the base itself is about the size of a large coffee cup. The stand is tall enough, and the arm and camera head articulate in a way that you can get the perfect shot every time. The base is weighted well, so tipping has never been an issue.
The camera has USB and HDMI connections, so compatibility is not an issue. Additionally, it has its own WIFI, so you can connect to projectors and devices without the need for wires at all. In fact, you don’t even need a computer to connect this to a projector. Just plug and play.
The camera has zoom buttons on the front of the stand, eliminating the need for software to perform the zoom function. I have found the zoom function to be wonderful, with little to no loss of detail in the zoomed image, as you can see below.
I have used many document/overhead cameras in my day, Ipevo and other brands. I must say, that this camera is far and away the best I have had the opportunity to use. Ipevo has really stepped up their game and created a high end camera that is perfect for a multitude of uses. I currently use it as a camera for my YouTube channel via USB connection to my laptop. It works well with OBS Studio software, so I can easily switch views. No matter how you intend to use it, this camera is sure to be a great choice.