Action cameras are used to capture the most exciting and adventurous moments in our lives. Whether one is going diving in the sea, skiing in the snowy slopes or mountains, or even cycling on rough trails, these portable gadgets capture it all. But to guarantee your action camera continues to work and the recorded videos are legible, then it is prudent to use the right protectors for your action camera. Following the below guide will assist you in making the right decision on the best action camera protectors to purchase.
Understanding Action Camera Protectors
An action camera protector can be of many types and it is intended to protect specific parts of the action camera. Some chief guards are lens guards, screen guards, and full bodyguards.
Action Camera Lens Protectors
This lens is widely believed to be one of the main inventions of an action camera. Injury to it in any way causes a profound impact on the quality of the image produced. Thus, the use of an action camera lens protector is mandatory.
Contour Action Camera Lens Protector
Contour action camera lens protectors are usually known to be long-lasting. They give a vision that is clear while at the same time safeguarding the lens against the possible results of abrasion, accumulation of dust and any form of impact. These protectors are easy to install and provide elaborate protection and for this reason, the action camera users prefer them.
Fitfort Action Camera Lens Protector
Fitfort action camera lens protectors are rather comfortable and made of high-quality materials. It has a very effective scratch and impact resistance. These protectors are meant for preserve the brightness of your recorded scene and at the same time safeguard the lens.
Action Camera Screen Protectors
Action camera screen protectors are critical accessories since they protect the camera’s screen from scratching and cracking. A cracked screen can be disadvantageous, especially in the usage of the built-in camera. A screen action camera protector makes it easy to change settings and review recorded clips.
Garmin Virb Action Camera Anti-Glare Screen Protectors
Garmin virb action camera anti-glare screen protectors are specially made for the Garmin Virb series GPS enabled wearable camera devices. This one minimizes glare, which enhances the screen visibility even in the brightest of light conditions. Further, they provide good impact and scratch resistance features.
Osmo Action Camera Screen Protector
Osmo action camera screen protectors are famous for their application and it offers a hard shell to the screen of your mobile set. They are designed to guard against abrasion. These protectors are also anti-fingerprint, which means that the screen does not get dirty easily.
Full-Body Action Camera Protectors
Full-body action camera protectors encase the whole body of the camera including the lens and the screen. They are useful when shooting activities that expose the camera to different conditions such as rain.
PCTC Action Camera Protector
A PCTC action camera protector provides comprehensive safety to your action camera. They are well constructed and made of materials that protect the camera from contact with fingers, mechanical shocks, drop, collisions and scratches. These protectors are made in a way that they will bear tight embrace on the camera to help the camera to stay firm during extra ordinary activities.
Frame Mount Protector Housing for Touch Screen Action Camera
Frame mount protector housing for touch frame action cameras are very protective for the camera body and the screen of a camera. They are ideal in raw and rigorous performances, so that the camera does not become easily susceptible to damages or malfunctions. It is also important to note that these housings also permit hassle-free access to the camera’s touch screen.
DIY Sun Protector for Action Camera
As for lovers of DIY and working in the yard, it is quite possible to make a sun protector for an action camera on your own. Lighting can cause glare and becomes a major problem when shooting scenes during the day. An improvised sun shield assists in protecting the camera from direct sunlight leading to good image quality in the sun.
Some of the common household items that can be used to create a DIY sun protector for an action camera are cardboard and tapes. Take the cardboard and use the knife, trim it to fit around the camera, after that use the tape to hold it in place. This simple shield assists to minimize direct sunlight and vying thus improving the quality of the outcomes on the capturing devices.
Choosing the Best Action Camera Protector
Choosing the best action camera protector is determined by the following aspects. Consider the following points when making your choice:
Type of Protection
Determine what parts of the camera are vulnerable. If the lens is what worries you most then it’s better to go for a high-quality lens protector. When it comes to screen protection, it’ll be wiser if you opt for a worthy screen protector. For all round coverage, the full body protector is the best as it covers most of the body parts.
Material Quality
The material utilized in the protector has to be of great quality. The use of quality materials contributes to provision of protection and structures’ durability. Select options that have protectors made out of scratch-resistant and impact-resistant materials.
Ease of Installation
There are protectors that are relatively easier to install than others. Select the protector that is compatible with the model of the camera and one that can easily be used. Protectors with self-installation with no bubbles and very good adhesive properties should be chosen.
Compatibility
Make sure that the protector is cut out for your camera model. The protectors from the universal range might not fit perfectly, which will indirectly affect the level of protection. It is recommended to buy protectors made for the particular model of your camera.
Brand Reputation
Some of the popular and authentic brands for these products include Contour, Fitfort, and PCTC. Selecting a protector from the brand of your choice also guarantees that you are getting a product that will adequately protect your camera.
Popular Action Camera Protectors
There are a few protectors which are widely used by action camera users due to the quality as well as the efficiency. Here are a few worth considering:
Sony AS100 Action Camera with Lens Protector
This protector is made custom for the Sony AS100. It gives the best protection to lenses and keeps the camera in the best shape as required. The protector is quite simple to install and provides great protection from scratches and even some kinds of impacts.
Garmin Virb Action Camera Anti-Glare Screen Protectors
These are some of the best screen protectors that help in eliminating glare while at the same time giving a screen a layer of protection. They are also made to match the Garmin Virb series and the cases afford the gadgets good protection on impacts and on scratching.
Osmo Action Camera Screen Protector
The Osmo screen protectors are also well recognized because they are easy to install, and they provide powerful protection. They protect the screen from getting scratched or developing cracks hence allowing the viewer to have a clear vision on the screen. These protectors are also anti-fingerprint, do not allow the screen to be dirty and made clean.
How to Install Action Camera Protectors
The procedure of installing action camera protectors is generally easy. Follow these steps for optimal installation:
Clean the Camera
It is advised that prior to applying the protector the surface of the camera lens should be clean and free from dust and fingerprints. A microfiber cloth should be used to wipe the surface of the camera.
Align the Protecto
Make sure to place the protector opposite of the camera part it will shield. Make sure that it is properly aligned, spending more time on it if necessary.
Apply the Protector
Rub the protector lightly over the surface from the edge to the other end. Make sure that no bubbles are formed while applying the respective layer.
Secure the Protector
Press down the unit and lock in place the protector. With regards to screen protectors, you should wipe off any bubbles on the screen protector using a soft cloth to provide you with a tight surface.
Maintaining Action Camera Protectors
Caring for your action camera protectors makes them long lasting and offers the best protection possible. Follow these tips to keep your protectors in good condition:
Regular Cleaning
It is recommended that the protectors should be cleaned often to pat away dirt and stains. The protectors should be wiped using a microfiber cloth without even applying much pressure. Do not use any harsh materials that could mar the surface.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals
It is advised to wash the protectors with gentle washing detergents. In addition, many chemicals are quite aggressive and they can erode the protectors and lower their reliability. Usually, running water and mild soap are permissible in caring for the skin products.
Check for Damage
You should check the protectors daily for signs of wear to avoid deterioration of the screens you are protecting. For a protector is scratch or cracked, it should be replaced at once. Those that are cracked or chipped cannot protect as they are supposed to since they are broken.
Benefits of Using Action Camera Protectors
Using action camera protectors proved to have several noteworthy advantages and helps maintain the durability and the functionality of your camera. Here’s a detailed look at why investing in protectors is essential:
Extended Camera Life
Protective cases for action cameras are useful to avoid physical damages and thus increase the durability of a camera. The lens, screen and body of the camera come under the category of items that can be scratched, well impacted and can also be dusty. So, it is important to protect them.
Improved Image Quality
This component is highly important for proper shooting of clips and recording sessions. Scratches or dust that get on the lens seriously affect image quality, making the videos and photos taken to appear blurred or out of focus. Lens caps keep the lens in useful condition by avoiding the formation of scratches as well as dust on it.
Enhanced Durability
Action cameras are used in risky activities. So they are built robust, but it does not mean they cannot be damaged during such activities. It helps in the protection of the camera from shocks since protectors add on the amount of protection that the camera has.
Cost-Effective Solution
Fixing an action camera that has been damaged or getting a new one may be costly. Finally, protectors are a very cost-effective mechanism which eliminates such high costs. With this it means that by choosing the quality protectors for the camera it will be possible to avoid expensive repairs and at the same time you will be able to increase the durability of the camera.
Peace of Mind
Caring about the camera’s safety can be an added advantage since it means that the camera is secure and you can just concentrate on filming your experiences. No matter if you are paragliding, biking up a mountain trail, or Scuba diving, you can rest assured that your camera is well protected.
Additional Tips for Using Action Camera Protectors
Replace Protectors Regularly
This is essential for the protectors no matter how perfect they may be at their job in the beginning. Inspect them from time to time and get a new set when necessary to maintain effectiveness of barrier.
Store Your Camera Properly
While not in use, make sure that your camera is put in a protective case. It also provides additional protection against the dropping of objects that may damage the screen or dust that may find its way in the mobile device.
Be Mindful of Environmental Conditions
Cold and heat, humidity and direct light may harm not only the camera itself but also protection accessories. Do not expose the whole camera to extreme weather conditions such as very hot or very cold conditions for long time.
Use Lens Caps and Covers
Use other accessories, like lens caps or covers especially when the camera is not in use. This also acts as an extra layer of protection to the lens by shielding it from dust and possible scratches.
Educate Yourself on Camera Maintenance
Take some time to understand the recommended practices concerning the particular model of your camera equipment. Maintenance should always be partnered with the use of protectors so that your camera should appear and be as good as new.
Conclusion
By choosing the right action camera protector, you can ensure your camera stays safe and functional during all your adventures. Consider your needs, the protector’s quality, and compatibility with your camera model for the best results. Protect your investment and enjoy capturing your adventures without worry.