Although the ATC3K is about the same size and weight as the more expensive ATC5K, the ATC3K feels more balanced and exhibits less shake when using the strap-based mounting options. The ATC3K's ring mount rotates more easily than the ATC5K's locking ring and features neat ridges moulded into the ring, the end cap and the camera body, making it very easy to line the camera up with the bracket in 90° intervals.
In sunlight, the video we captured was crisp and saturated. Using the ATC3K indoors, at dusk or on an overcast day yielded mixed results, ranging from muddy and poorly exposed to plain dark and unwatchable.
Transferring 1GB of video from the device's SD card slot using the integrated USB 1.1 port took a staggeringly slow 30 minutes, during which the ATC3K needed to be powered using its batteries. You may want to invest in a faster SD card reader to speed up file transfers and save on batteries.
Conclusion
The Oregon Scientific ATC3K Waterproof Action Camera is a very easy device to pick up and start using. Its rugged design is a big plus, while its more generous front rubber bumper makes it feel even more durable than the ATC5K. The ATC3K wins points with its webcam and live monitor functions, but loses major marks for its issues with poor image exposure and low-light performance. Ultimately, the ATC3K is merely decent.
Additional editing by Charles Kloet
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neilmck69 23 April 2010
Good: That I can video motorbike ride-outs with my friends
Bad: That the mounting clip broke after 2 uses and support is dreadful
Comment: This camera seemed like a bargain from Argos - they had it on special at £70 so I snapped one up. Initially I was quite pleased - the video quality is sufficient, but the contrast control between light and dark is poor - i.e go into shade and it goes very dark - so best in bright sunlight. It was easy to mount on the pillion hanger of my bike and worked out of the box - only high quality batteries give reasonable life for a few hours, but that's fine. The biggest disappointment, however, is that the mounting clip broke after 2 uses and the support I have received from Oregon is woeful - I've emailed and phoned, both time with promises of sending a new clip, but nothing so far - third try and if they don;t respond it's back to Argos for a refund or replacement. It seems rugged, and it basically does what it says on the tin but it is flawed with poor customer support.
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