01.jpgMidland Radio has announced two new HD actioncam models in its XTC wearable video camera line. The XTC200 and XTC300 HD actioncams join the XTC100 standard def model announced in January. The XTCs have a similar form factor as the VholdR Contour HD or Drift Innovations HD170, with a small rugged chassis that can be mounted on a helmet, goggle strap, handlebars, or wherever you want to capture your extreme action.
The XTC200 shoots 720p HD video, and the XTC300 shoots 1080p. The older XTC100 offers standard def (480p). All three units weigh just 3 ounces (93 grams) each, and feature a single large button for controlling power and recording.
In addition to the standard black XTC models, Midland also offers camouflaged versions in the XTC150 (standard def) and XTC350 (HD). These models are aimed at hunting and other outdoor pursuits.
Each XTC actioncam comes with strap, goggle, handlebar, and universal mounts. Additional mounts are available including a suction-cup mount, visor clip, tree mount, and bow mount. The XTC actioncams are not waterproof, but Midland does offer a submersible case.
The XTC200 and XTC300 are powered by built-in rechargeable lithium battery packs. The XTC100 uses two AAA batteries. The units accept Micro SD memory cards, and feature USB 2.0 ports.
There are dozens of actioncams on the market these days. While XTC actioncams do not have some of the more advanced bells and whistles found on cams such as the Gobandit GPSHD or the Oregon Scientific ATC9K, the XTCs seem to offer a solid set of features for outdoor enthusiasts and extreme sports nuts.
XTC100 and XTC150: Standard def (480p) 640 x 480, 30 FPS. 4:3 aspect ratio. 140-degree wide-angle lens. Accepts up to 32 GB Micro SD card, 15 minutes per 1 GB (AVI).
XTC200: HD (720p) 1280 x 720, 30 FPS. 16:9 aspect ratio. 140-degree wide-angle lens. Accepts up to 32GB Micro SD card, 13 minutes per 1 GB (MPEG-4).
XTC300 and XTC350: HD (1080p) 1920 x 1080, 30 FPS. 16:9 aspect ratio. 140-degree wide-angle lens. Accepts up to 32GB Micro SD card, 11 minutes per 1 GB (MPEG-4).
Pricing and availability for the XTC200 and XTC300 HD actioncams have not yet been released, although we did find one online retailer selling the 300 for US$315. The XTC100 is currently available for around US$100
