Perhaps it was inevitable, but mini 4K video technology is finally becoming affordably mainstream. Shenzen-based CONC Tech Co., Ltd. continues to push the edge in this market. Weighing in at just 79 grams, the company's 45x45x30mm Mokacam device is almost small enough to worry about losing. The company touts the device as the world's first mini 4K camera.
"The Mokacam's small size means taking it with you will no longer be a tough decision," says Mokacam sales director Kimiko Chen. No argument there. This gizmo proves the adage that big things sometimes come in small packages.
The Mokacam employs a fixed 152-degree wide-angle 35mm glass lens, a powerful Sony IMX206 motion sensor, and an integrated HD microphone to capture images and videos, which are then fed through a custom built digital signal processor.
This allows for 16 megapixel photos along with 4K UHD quality video. Video recording options include 4K at 15fps (frames per second), 1080p at 60fps/30fps, 720p at 120fps/60fps and VGA at 240fps.
Strong magnets make for easy connection to accessories, including a snap-on battery and a 270-degree rotatable external screen that allows for taking selfies. The magnets allow the Mokacam to 'stick' to metallic surfaces in a pinch.
The Mokacam is a 2015 Red Dot winner, and one soon begins to understand why.
Lots of cool features round out the cam's package. The minimalistic design means there are few control buttons to confuse: power on/shoot-off, photo-video switch, and WiFi on-off. The unit has a micro USB charging port, and an SD card slot that supports 64GB of memory.
A free app also makes integration with iOS and Android systems easy for sharing; GPS geotagging is also available.
The impact and water resistant polycarbonate shell comes in black, gold, blue, silver, and pink. A sturdy waterproof case allows for underwater shooting to as deep as 60 meters. The on-board 1000mAh power supply is good for about three hours of normal use.
For the price (well south of $200), the quality of the Mokacam's 4K video stacks up well versus the competition. And the portability speaks volumes.
"If you're looking for a small form factor with innovative design features and a low price tag then the Mokacam is certainly an option for you to consider," says Thomas Price, a contributor to cinema5d.com, a tech review site. "While serious action filmmakers won't be too keen on Mokacam, I can see the camera being quite successful in the casual market."
