Overview

The Arducam 1080P Day & Night Vision USB Camera is a compact, versatile solution for users looking for an affordable, high-resolution camera. This 2MP USB camera offers a full HD 1080P resolution, making it ideal for both day and night use. Featuring an automatic IR-CUT filter with 850 IR LEDs, it adjusts automatically between day and night modes, providing clear imagery regardless of lighting conditions. With a small footprint of just 38mm x 38mm, this camera board is suitable for various applications. It’s compatible with Windows, Linux, Mac OS, and Android, making it highly adaptable to different devices.

Features & Benefits

This USB camera offers full HD 1080P resolution, ensuring sharp and clear images in most lighting conditions. The built-in IR-CUT filter automatically adjusts based on ambient light, ensuring optimal performance at all times. The camera is plug-and-play, meaning there’s no need for additional drivers, making setup quick and hassle-free. It's highly flexible, supporting multiple frame rates for various resolutions, such as 30fps at 320x240 and 5fps at 1920x1080. The compact design and USB 2.0 interface make it easy to integrate into DIY surveillance systems or other custom projects.

Best For

This camera is ideal for a range of uses, especially where compact size and versatility are key. It’s perfect for home security systems or surveillance applications, thanks to its 1080P resolution and night vision capabilities. Wildlife photographers who need a discreet, low-profile camera will also appreciate its small size and effective performance. Additionally, tech enthusiasts working with Raspberry Pi or similar devices will find it an excellent choice for integration into DIY projects. Its easy setup makes it a great option for anyone looking to create a custom camera solution.

User Feedback

Users are generally pleased with the Arducam 1080P Day & Night Vision USB Camera, particularly praising its image quality and ease of setup. The automatic day/night vision switching feature is well-received, making it a solid choice for 24/7 monitoring. However, some reviewers note that the camera’s frame rate drops significantly at higher resolutions, which may be a limitation for certain uses. Despite this, the camera is highly regarded for DIY surveillance projects and hidden camera setups due to its compact size and reliability. Overall, it’s a well-rounded option for those seeking a versatile USB camera.

Pros

  • The USB camera provides excellent 1080P resolution, delivering sharp and clear video quality.
  • Automatic day/night vision switching is a convenient feature for seamless operation in low light conditions.
  • It has a compact design, making it ideal for discreet installations and tight spaces.
  • The plug-and-play USB 2.0 connectivity ensures quick and easy setup, with no drivers required.
  • It supports a wide range of operating systems, including Windows, Linux, Mac OS, and Android.
  • Users appreciate its versatility for various applications like surveillance, wildlife photography, and DIY projects.

Cons

  • The frame rate drops significantly at higher resolutions, with only 5fps at 1080P, limiting its use for fast motion capture.
  • Night vision capabilities may not be powerful enough for large or very dark areas.
  • The camera's field of view, while decent, may not be wide enough for certain surveillance needs.
  • Some users have reported that the camera's plastic build feels less durable for long-term use in tough environments.
  • The lack of advanced software customization features might limit more tech-savvy users looking for greater control.
  • It is not ideal for users requiring high-speed video streaming or professional-level video recording.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews from multiple countries and languages, the ratings for the Arducam 1080P Day & Night Vision USB Camera reflect a balanced mix of praise and concerns. The scores are based on authentic, high-quality feedback, filtered to exclude spam, bot-driven, or incentivized reviews. Both strengths and pain points are captured, with a variety of sources providing insights into performance, usability, and value. The camera has generally impressed users, though some aspects like frame rate at higher resolutions have raised some questions.

Image Quality
88%
Many users are impressed with the sharpness and clarity of the 1080P resolution. The camera delivers crisp images with good detail, making it a great option for both surveillance and wildlife photography. The image quality stands out as a key strength for most buyers.
Some users have noted that while the image quality is good, it can be a bit grainy in low-light conditions despite the night vision feature. For some, the detail is sufficient, but it doesn't match higher-end cameras in terms of sharpness under all conditions.
Night Vision Performance
85%
The automatic IR-CUT filter does a solid job of switching between day and night modes, ensuring clear vision in low-light settings. Many reviewers have praised the 850 IR LEDs for providing effective illumination in dark environments, making it reliable for nighttime use.
A few buyers mention that the night vision could be more powerful, especially for larger areas. While functional, some users have pointed out that objects further away may appear less detailed when captured in low-light conditions.
Ease of Setup
90%
Users rave about the plug-and-play setup with USB 2.0 compatibility. The device works seamlessly across multiple operating systems like Windows, Linux, Mac OS, and Android, allowing for quick installation and minimal hassle.
However, a small number of users have had issues with setup on specific platforms, especially with older operating systems. Some found the need for manual adjustments a bit tricky in certain configurations.
Value for Money
92%
With its combination of high-quality 1080P resolution, night vision, and versatile functionality, users feel this device offers great value for the price. It's praised for providing professional-level features without the expensive price tag.
While the overall value is positive, some users feel that the frame rate at higher resolutions could be improved. This could make it less appealing for those needing ultra-smooth video capture at 1080P.
Build Quality
80%
20%
The compact and lightweight design is appreciated, with many users noting that it's easy to integrate into various setups, including DIY projects. The small size makes it a flexible option for discreet camera placements.
A few reviewers have mentioned that while the build is functional, the materials feel somewhat lightweight, leading to concerns about long-term durability. Some have questioned whether it can withstand heavy handling over time.
Frame Rate at Higher Resolutions
60%
40%
At lower resolutions, the camera provides solid performance with smooth frame rates. For some users, this was sufficient for basic surveillance needs and casual use.
The major drawback here is the significant drop in frame rate when using 1080P resolution. Many users found the 5fps at 1920x1080 to be frustratingly low, especially when capturing fast-moving subjects or for high-definition video recording.
Connectivity & Compatibility
87%
Buyers generally find the USB 2.0 connection reliable, and the camera is widely compatible with different operating systems, including Windows, Linux, Mac OS, and Android. The plug-and-play setup is a major convenience.
Some users report occasional connection issues when using the camera with non-standard devices, particularly in DIY setups or on older computers. Compatibility with specialized software was also mentioned as a minor concern.
Compactness & Size
88%
The camera's small size is a key selling point, making it easy to incorporate into tight spaces or use as a hidden camera. Users appreciate the 38mm x 38mm dimensions for their versatility in different environments.
However, some buyers noted that its small size limits some functionality, such as the ability to adjust angles or place it in larger, more open areas. Its compactness can be a trade-off for features like adjustable mounts.
Software & Drivers
84%
The camera works well with most operating systems, and the plug-and-play nature ensures a smooth experience. Many users appreciate that there is no need for additional drivers or complex software installation.
Despite the simple setup, a few buyers found that the software offered limited customization options. There were occasional reports of issues with driver updates or incompatibility with specific third-party software.
Customer Support
75%
25%
Users have generally reported that customer support is responsive when issues arise. Some mentioned that they received helpful troubleshooting steps to resolve minor setup problems.
However, some users felt that the customer support could be more comprehensive. A few reports mentioned delays in response time, particularly when dealing with more technical inquiries or warranty-related issues.
Versatility for Different Projects
91%
The camera’s versatility is frequently highlighted. It excels in surveillance, wildlife photography, dashcam, and baby monitoring applications, making it suitable for a variety of projects. Buyers appreciate the wide range of potential uses.
The main drawback is that while the camera is versatile, its performance might not meet the needs of users looking for specialized features for professional video production. Some buyers feel it’s not advanced enough for high-end, long-duration recording needs.
Long-Term Durability
78%
22%
For many users, the camera holds up well during regular use in typical applications like surveillance and wildlife monitoring. The small and durable design seems adequate for these tasks.
However, concerns about long-term durability arise from a few users who experienced wear on the device's casing after several months of use. Its lightweight design makes it more susceptible to damage if not handled carefully.

Suitable for:

The Arducam 1080P Day & Night Vision USB Camera is an excellent option for users seeking a compact and versatile camera for surveillance or wildlife photography. Its automatic day/night switching, full 1080P resolution, and easy plug-and-play setup make it ideal for home security setups or discreet monitoring. Tech enthusiasts using Raspberry Pi or similar devices will appreciate its simple integration with various operating systems, including Windows, Linux, Mac OS, and Android. Additionally, DIY enthusiasts working on hidden camera projects will find the small size and adaptable functionality especially useful.

Not suitable for:

This camera is less suitable for users who need higher frame rates at 1080P resolution, as the camera's frame rate drops to just 5fps at this setting, making it unsuitable for high-speed video capture or professional-grade recording. Users seeking a camera with superior night vision for long-range use may find the 850 IR LEDs insufficient for large or very dark areas. Furthermore, those expecting robust software customization or advanced features might be disappointed, as the device lacks specialized software controls for advanced users.

Specifications

  • Resolution: Offers Full HD 1080P resolution for clear and detailed video capture.
  • Sensor: Equipped with a 2MP OV2710 image sensor for high-quality visuals.
  • Field of View: Provides a 100° horizontal field of view for wide coverage in surveillance or photography.
  • Frame Rate: Supports 30fps at 320x240 and 5fps at 1920x1080 resolutions.
  • Night Vision: Features automatic IR-CUT filter with 850 IR LEDs for effective night vision performance.
  • Connectivity: Connects via USB 2.0 for easy plug-and-play operation, with no drivers required.
  • Supported OS: Compatible with Windows, Linux, Android, and Mac OS operating systems.
  • Video Formats: Supports MJPG and YUY2 video formats for versatile video streaming and recording.
  • Dimensions: Compact design with dimensions of 38mm x 38mm for space-efficient placement.
  • Weight: Lightweight at 2.39 ounces, making it easy to handle and install in various settings.
  • Applications: Suitable for a wide range of applications including surveillance, wildlife photography, dashcams, and baby monitoring.
  • Power: Powered directly via the USB connection, eliminating the need for external power sources.
  • IR LEDs: Includes 850nm infrared LEDs for low-light illumination, supporting night vision functionality.
  • Compatibility: Works seamlessly with Raspberry Pi and other similar tech for DIY projects and custom setups.
  • Build: Compact and durable design, suitable for long-term use in various environments.
  • Setup: Designed for easy plug-and-play setup with no need for additional drivers or software.
  • Use Cases: Ideal for both professional and DIY users looking for a versatile, compact camera.
  • Resolution Limitation: Lower frame rate at full 1080P resolution (5fps) may limit use for fast-moving subjects.

FAQ

The setup is simple: plug the camera into a USB port on your device, and it should be recognized immediately without needing additional drivers. The camera uses a USB 2.0 interface and is compatible with Windows, Mac OS, Linux, and Android. Just ensure your system supports the video format (MJPG or YUY2).

Yes, the Arducam 1080P Day & Night Vision USB Camera features an automatic IR-CUT filter that adjusts for day and night conditions. The camera switches seamlessly between day and night vision, making it suitable for monitoring in both well-lit and low-light environments.

This USB camera has a 100° horizontal field of view, which is wide enough for most surveillance or photography tasks. It allows for a broader capture area, ideal for home security or wildlife photography where you need to cover a larger space.

Yes, this camera is compatible with Raspberry Pi and similar devices. Its plug-and-play USB 2.0 interface works seamlessly with Raspberry Pi boards, making it a great option for tech enthusiasts and DIY projects.

The camera supports 1080P resolution, but the frame rate is 5fps at 1920x1080 and 30fps at 320x240. This lower frame rate at full resolution may be limiting for fast-moving objects, so it's best for applications that don't require high-speed video capture.

While this camera has automatic day/night switching, it is designed primarily for indoor use. It doesn't have weatherproofing or additional rugged features that are typically required for outdoor surveillance cameras. You may need to place it in a sheltered environment to avoid damage.

The camera supports MJPG and YUY2 video formats. These are commonly used in most surveillance and video recording applications, offering compatibility with a wide range of software and devices.

The camera automatically switches between day and night modes using its built-in IR-CUT filter and 850 IR LEDs. There’s no need for manual intervention—the transition happens seamlessly as lighting conditions change.

Yes, this camera is ideal for DIY surveillance projects and home security systems. Its compact design and ease of setup make it a versatile choice for users who need an affordable, simple solution for monitoring spaces.

One limitation is the lower frame rate at higher resolutions, which may not be suitable for high-speed video applications. Additionally, while it offers decent night vision, it may not be powerful enough for large areas or very dark environments. Some users also feel that the plastic build is not the most durable for long-term or heavy-duty use.