Excellent review. It's nice to see someone do an actual review rather than a 30 minute long video of someone who thinks they are funny or entertaining when they are just nauseating to watch. This review is all about the product and I thank you for that. Great job.... Keep them coming.
You are the only review person I trust. Bought my dashcam and other things that I wanted to buy, and so far I am very , very happy with my choices, thanks to you... especially my dashcam.
Check out the review I did for a cheaper alternative if you really looking for one. Costs way less but has more it can do and is capable of taking video at 1080p. IR sensor is also much better.
I just love your reviews! Something about your tone & personality... You're soft-spoken & have no foul language! What a relief... You're reviews are honest & just detailed enough to be informative & not overwhelming or boring. Plus... You're a dog lover which makes you a good human being in my book! Thx for your time & effort so the rest of us can purchase things the educated way, being "informed".... 🗯👌😯🐶🌹🌵🌴🙂
Bought it and it sucked. First it recorded in purple then it broke and won't work after 3 days. can't get a hold of anyone. my bank did a charge back. what thieves.
These cop cams are repackaged Chinese cheap cams from literally years ago. Ones like them were sold for under 10 dollars and were plagued with issues. Stopped recordings, bad jittery video, poor battery life, corruption of recording files etc. They came in many styles, such as pen, box and lapel mounted covert cameras. The cameras underlying design remained the same. As for changing the time, those old cameras required saving a specific text string formatted a certain way, including the date and time to the root of the mini sad card, and upon restart with card installed, the camera would write the date to the camera. Avoid these, unless it’s under $3.00 with mini sd card included.
TOTAL SCAM! If something has "Atomic", or "Magic", or "Tactical" in the name RUN!!! You can buy this exact camera directly from China for $5 (I have two!) and the only difference is the name stamped on it. It is JUNK.
@@davidsegerstrom9313 all that infomercial stuff is JUNK. This thing is made in the SAME factory! If it has "cop", "atomic", or "tatical" in it's name it is a SCAM
I appreciate the effort put forth to really review these products. You don't seem to gloss over or avoid performing certain tests. I will mention here, as it was mentioned in a comment on the article you wrote, about changing timestamp w/cop cam. Now I haven't bought this product nor do I know for certain the efficacy of this info but I've seen it mentioned via several comments. To CHANGE the timestamp, to change date and/or time, you must alter the "time.set.txt" file changing the values in said file to the current/correct date and time. I've also seen it posted that the values go "date" first then "time" and that the time should be set using military time format. So I hope this helps anyone still trying to set this.
@@Freakinreviews not only am I not surprised that it's not included in your directions but wouldn't be surprised if it never makes it into the directions. I've seen cheap quality products where the instructions were even cheaper and missing key bits of information.
This is how you set correct time/date on cameras like this... TAG.txt or time.txt (test what works on your camera) file should be created on SD memory card you put in your camera Connect the camera to your computer via USB cable Create a TAG.txt file at the root directory of the Memory Disk, type the three line of text in this blank file just like below: [date] 2012/01/01 12.00.00 Save the file and quit. Unplug camera from computer. Turn on the camera, then turn off the camera. When you do this the camera reads the time.txt file, sets the time/date on the camera according to what you typed in the file and then erases the time.txt file
When it sounds too good to be true, it usually is. Nice review. My Wife picked me up one for a stocking stuffer when she was in line at Menards. I didn't open it yet. I decided to check reviews before. You saved me such a headache. BLESS you and thanks 4 posting.
I used to use cameras like this for my RC videos. To disable/change the time stamp, it’s normally required to place a text file inside the default directory. Additionally, the “motion activation” features really only work when connected to continuous power. These little cameras use up a lot of battery quickly and judging from the size, there’s probably not a lot to go around.
Oh crap!!! Cop 's-cam is not as it should be. One person got ripped off paying a larger amount. This review was spot on and easy to understand. I have a tac cam almost like this one with the same problems. I cannot get it to record. Maybe it was because I charged in the wall, and not on the computer. They have a lot of work to do to make these tiny camera's work. Love Bailey.
The reason you were having issues playing and importing the files is while they are in AVI containers, the video is stored in m-jpeg codec format (yup, like the picture format). The reason they do that is encoding chips for good compression formats like h.264 (what most cameras record in nowadays) are expensive (relatively speaking) and have higher battery demands, so they use chips that are extremely simple, cheap, and power sipping that use this dated crummy format. Another plus (for them) is they can usually cheap out even more with the battery because it really takes almost nothing at all to power these chips. That's probably the issue you had, a terrible battery and a almost non-existant battery management/charging circuit. You'll see this a lot with any Chinese cameras sold on Ebay for under 50 dollars (dash cams and 'spy' cams are famous for this format) These exact cameras are sold all over Ebay as "Cube Camera"s. They've been around since the Polaroid Cube first came out years ago. This just seems like an investor was browsing Ebay and got the terrible idea to import these things and market them without realizing the poop build/design quality. And yes, as people pointed out they have no InfraRed filter, since the moving shutter required to move it out of the way for night shots costs money and somewhat increases size. So that's why the colors are off. In fact: if the sensor was more sensitive to IR, the color would really be bad but it doesn't look like they used a sensor that's very IR sensitive (again, they gotta save money) so they probably used a bargain basement sensor not really intended for night shots (because all sensors are at least a little IR sensitive). That would explain the crummy night time preformance. Anyway, keep in mind I'm no expert, and just doing some speculating on the sensor. Hope that helps.
You sure does sound more credible than this video. I always say, "If you can't properly use a device, you are just too lazy to properly understand the instructions manual." Not that I am defending cheap the product, I just wanted to hear less "I can't," this is a review for goodness sakes. At the very least, do some research or ask people who may know. Regardless the actual question here is... why is this in my recommended?
It doesn't matter what is video storage , the cop cam should be user friendly ,not more works for user to come up with. So he is very smart and knows what he is talking about. You are lacking critical thinking due
I never had any problems - I bought it yesterday and it has done as advertised. I wonder if James pre-charged it and/or read the instructions correctly. I am not sure this is a fair review but time will tell. The ST card came out because the press button is ON the side not the top (check out the writing). The charging process is NOT confusing. It says in the instructions that the computer charging means it won't record...but it will record when plugged into the wall. It is definitely all in the instructions. The machine stopped recorded because it was not pre-charged.
James, thankyou for doing a review of the cop cam. Even though nearly 4yrs have past since your review you saved a pensioner from wasting 50 precious dollars on a product I wouldn't now buy even if it were 2 dollars. Thanks again, I'm now a subscriber of your RUclips channel.👍😊
Also going to new jersey and while I am there I might pay a visit to see if this company really exists and if they do I will take my cop cam and stick it up there a..
If you notice, a lot of infomercial products are all coming from 2 Bridge road In Fairfield NJ. Funny thing is I grew up and lived down the street from here,lol. I always make it a point to look at the he address on the commercial I’m boringly watching at the time,lol
This product looks like it is right up there with the Perfect Polly for the shittiest products I've seen you review. Thanks for showing us the stuff that sucks along with the stuff that works. I love your channel dude keep up the great work.
Great review, thank you. To take a picture, power on as per instructions, then hold power button for 2 additional seconds, then each time you want to take a picture you have to push the button. Robert
Thanks James, The Black turned purple during the day, and you seemed to become clean shaven during night filming. Very weird. I am looking for a decent priced cam. But it wont be that one. Be safe
I have one and was playing around the files could not be read on my computer....had mine for about 1 year after first try I just threw it in the drawer. Found it this evening and found your review on RUclips. I’m gonna keep trying and see if I get the same results as you.
Thank you for the honest, extensive review. I almost bought this as an extra "security" cam, but will not now. That TV hype can get you when you least expect it! Sadly, most ASOTV stuff turns out to be crap.
I just brought a Mini Cam the same one just not the Cop Cam. Your reviewed is spot on. Having a same problems with the time and date stamp. Can't get the setting right between the 720p vs1080p(looks the same) and getting the night vision to work. I think is best use for is getting footage of baby talking and learning how to walk.
Can you look into the SQ11 mini camera. The cop cam is a variant of the SQ11. The SQ11 can be found on Amazon for $15. It also can be used as a webcam/dash cam? For the date try this: Connect the mini video camera to the computer. Setting the time is done by creating a text file named «TIMERSET.txt» in the root directory of the device's memory card, with the following content: «YYYYMMDDHHMMSS» «Y» (or «N», if you do not want the date and time stamp displayed on video files) For example, «20170625140003 Y» After saving the file, disconnect the video camera from the computer and turn it on.
I have one of these mini cameras, not this specific cop cam brand, and the thing I never understood about that text file is what good is it if you only use the camera occasionally instead of leaving it on constantly. I haven't even tried to use mine in months so I'm guessing next time I go to use it it will say it's some random date and time from months ago.
I wish I could answer that in the affirmative. I've spent way too much on small covert cams and junk is practically a trademark. Too many hit-and-miss recordings and unpredictable motion capture. If they were smaller, more portable, and weatherproof, I'd almost rather use a dashcam. At least the technology is more honest and constantly improving.
I think you just happened to get a bad one. My wife came home with one of these and SHE quickly figured out how to turn it on, charge it. I added a bigger SD card (16GB) and she has been using it during her 30 mile drive to and from work for the last 2 days and it has worked perfectly. I also had to use Windows Media Player to view the video clips, but the color on them was awesome, and the motion sensor worked perfect. She is going to keep using it until the battery finally dies. But I was impressed that, even though she never turned it off during the day at work, its still going. When her car was parked, the video recording would stop until there was motion detected. I agree, the instructions sucked about the timestamp. It uses the wrokd date to NAME the video clips, but for some reason the timestamp recorded IN the video frames just started working correctly. I have no idea why. I liked it so much, I am going to buy one for myself to play with. . Thanks for your video.
Just an SQ11 cube camera from china, I have one myself (the SQ11, not this cop cam version) and tried it out recently, it's not too bad so long as you're expecting it to be pretty rubbish. I've stuck an IR cut filter over the lens of mine though as the stock lens has no IR cut hence why things look purpley-red...
I bought a couple SQ11, months ago, 10 usd each on Bangood. Poor to lousy battery life, confusing interface, date stamp has to be edited each time its used (it doesn't remember time otherwise). Royal pita to use. Can't figure out how to use it as a regular wired-in security cam. If it worked as a wired-in security can it might be worth it though. Not recommended.
@@garywheeler7039 I bought some about 2 or 3 years ago. 32gb max for sd card. Records good in day time. Terrible at night. Constant power will allow it to record longer and it does loop recording. Won't recommend using as security camera as it does not do good beyond 10-15 feet.
I have the same thing... got it about a year ago and it was confusing for me too lol! And knowing how it was orientated the video when it did work was upside down on one test. Glad to know I was not the only one to have had problems with this or thought it was confusing
So, let me get this straight. It’s marketed as a security camera but has a very, very narrow field of view, poor picture quality, no real night vision or IR no battery life and to top it all off, it also has horrible CMOS tearing. What a complete scam. That thing probably has a total cost of not even $5 from China. Somebody’s making bank on these... This demonstrates why real cameras like the Arlo or even Blink cost so much more.
Good god $5 dollars....no way! Maybe maybe a $1 dollar and that is pushing it. I am aware of the sd card but its a china card and it by itself is produced for Penneys.
Phlop Alopagus You have to figure the box, cable and plastic casing (though that likely is just a variation of a standard mold) into the cost. In parts just for the camera it would be around the 2-3 range with the battery and microSD the most expensive components at around a dollar each. They have to have some sort of “custom” casing for the camera as well as packaging however, for this type of “as seen on tv” product which adds to the cost. The sensor itself is likely peanuts as it looks to be a 640x480 sensor upscaled with a basic camera chip that just only saves when large changes are detected. Landed, in bulk, I would expect a cost in the 5-10 range. If they’re any more then that landed, even with the SD card, somethings wrong.
Hello, thanks for your review. I thought that this connected to wifi to become a security camera but I'm also like you. Where is the app for this camera that's how you preview the video right? Instead of the computer. Could you view this through an app?
This is literally an off the shelf rebadge of the SQ11 Chinese Cubecam, you can get it for 5 dollars on aliexpress and it's the original, just as good product ( i have one)
the timestamp is located on a configuration document you can open with notepad when the camera is plugged into a computer. you should also see a Y or N line at the end for turning the time stamp on or off.
No wonder they were on Clearance BEFORE Christmas! Started out at $40, Clearance for $20! I’m glad I saw this before I wasted my money! Had to sub to your channel! Good stuff!
You did a great job explaining everything and now I am set to do 30 minute video clips with jumpy vision with coloration that makes black look purple and not to mention the lack of view which is less than 140 degrees
OMG. Thanks, James! I had the same issue you had when attempting to view recorded footage...I gave up and stuck the CopCam in a drawer for several years. Today I attempted to use it, and I was lucky enough to find your video, explaining the major flaws in this gadget. It's awful. Worst of all, it's totally unreliable for the main purpose it's designed for by turning itself off at random. Anyways, I appreciate you for taking the time to review the CopCam. Mine is headed to the Goodwill! lol
Today was my first day using it. I found it very jumpy when walking. It worked a lot better outside than inside. I was able to take photos after seeing the green light come on. I took them one by one, and they did show up in a photos folder on my laptop. As for the video player, I use VLC which read the .avi files flawlessly plus many other file types. Thanks for the review. I'm gonna look at others as well and try to learn as much as I can about this. Thanks, also, for clearing up my confusion about the inaccurate time stamp and date. That is definitely a big negative.
Honestly, I think you're being way too generous on this product, especially with the video quality. In addition, what's up with the excessive amount of packaging for such a tiny product? lol
Should've seen your review before buying one. I wanted to get one to use overnight to watch over my carport. Didn't realize how poor the range is for night-vision, and the carport light being on doesn't help at all either, just makes it nothing but bright purple instead of black. Can't even see the cars. Daytime it records well enough though. I was able to view the videos through VLC Media Player, if you're curious.
Yes, packaging is just a little plastic and cardboard… but when you multiply that by the billions of products being sold around the world, it adds up. Every manufacturer should make an effort to reduce the amount of packaging used for their products. Remember, we don't inherit this planet from our parents, we borrow it from our children.
Download the manual online too, easier in the eyes since the one with the cam is almost micro film! First charge should stay in the charger for 30 min after the cam registers charged.
This is really funny dude, I'm at the shop at the moment and I wanted to buy this camera, exactly the same camera, but I did a search and found your review, so I took the time and watched your review. Actually I decided not to buy it. Well I bought a $68 one, which is - I really hope - a bit better. Thanks for that correct review! 👋
Was thinking about buying this at Bed Bath and Beyond, just simply to see how my little Shih Tzu handled me being gone, while being housed in her den or cage, only when I have to leave home. You just saved me the hassle of having to return it.
I've said it once and I'll keep saying it. Everytime I get ready to purchase something I look to your channel to see if it's been reviewed and again I get slapped back into reality of " don't buy it" or " buy it" ..thank you for always fully testing the products.
Thanks for that very good review. You really put it through its paces. I saw it on TV yesterday and actually went onto their site to look closer at it last night but thankfully held off buying. It fails in so many areas. The footage of you at night was a disaster - it didn't look like you in the least! The daytime coloring didn't bother me and still could be used as evidence. But without a current time stamp, well, the cops would not accept it. I once had a very small camera I bought from a spy camera store, was supposed to film for two continuous hours. The most was 25 mins - around the same as the copcam. That was for the first few times. Thereafter, it would film for about 10 minutes before closing down with a dead battery. I ended up tossing it.
I am so glad I came across your Channel I wanted one of these cop cams so bad I could not stand it thank you again for doing this video . I have real bad anger issues and I believe if I bought this and it did not work as much as I want something like this I would have probably took a bulldozer and bulldoze down my house and everybody else's in the neighborhood . Again I would like to thank you .
You did a great review. I bought this and have not used it yet but I will try to get my own results. However your review was perfect and gave me details what to expect.
@@jgw5491 i agree! i as at bed bath beyond and picked this crap up i mean cop cam standing in line i was wondering if it worked well as the line got shorter i was thinking i wished i seen James review first, just in case it didn't work well then it was my turn to pay for the other things i got i decided to not buy thank god because i hate returning stuff i bough. thank you ever time i watch your review i give thanks, you stopped me from making a mistake
@@harrickvharrick3957 That was the same thing I was thinking lol. Wording is everything. Like you said "you don't word that right." Shouldn't that be "you didn't word that right." (or something along those lines)?
Your first test failed to turn on camera when the Micro chip fell out...you did not seem to rehit the "4" button again. Also, cop cam works on a 24/7 loop. Mine works pretty well; I do get the nighttime purple hues when the lights are on in the house...in the dark, I can see white teeth and glowing eyes from 7' away...too close for my comfort! LOL! In the daytime, I get up to 8- 3-6 minute clips. So, about 30 minutes as well. A tree branch or shadow swaying can waste recorder time and space...but it loops...can also loop right over a person or car that you needed to see from the hour before. There are def probs with the cop cam...but if you are stepping out and roommate is stealing your cash or workmate is stealing your food from fridge, it will catch them. I tested mine in two different kitchens, one in the daytime and one at nighttime. I basically caught myself loading the baby in the first 3 cips...then there were clips but nothing in them...might have been the dog and was already out of the frame by the time it turned on to record. Now, that I saw your clips, I think that was the issue. The other kitchen was on Christmas Evening, lights on and dark outdoors, it was pink room with purple cast ppl and the conversation was picked up well, even at 20' away. My family never knew it was on, never saw it on the hutch and after opening gifts, I showed them the camera and they all laughed at the footage. It caught 8 clips at 5-6 minutes each clip. That was with constant motion in the area. I have yet to get the camera to take pictures. I would give this cop cam 3 stars for a dorm room or office area to catch the thief in the act up close and quick trip away from home, but zero stars for a long-lasting issue that needs constant surveillance. I have deer cameras that cost as much that do both video and pictures, I have better night infra red results and the video and photos are really good! No sound on mine however. They are larger and bulky but the batteries last for months! The USB cards are an easier upload. My Cuddeback is my favorite...I've caught several window peepers and I didn't go easy on them! When accusing someone, get PROOF! I love watching them lie themselves into a corner before you whip out the USB card! YES!!! I keep one on every corner of every buildng I own and drive way. They give warning when the bright flash of the one by my window goes off...that is the last defense camera...letting an intruder know, at least ONE camera just took their photo while rest were on infra-red. I've caught farmers tearing up my land and much more. You'd be surprised what happens on a dead end road! LOL! Oh the dirty secrets revealed each time I would upload my camera USB-- some things just can not be unseen. Protection and defensive action -- works!
Thanks, great review. Unfortunately I got mine from Christmas and am stuck with it. I think you have to edit the time stamp in the folder file, but haven't figured out the format.
I care about the environment. Look at the packaging around the product it's 80% waste. This kind of packaging is designed to grab store shelf space making it more appealing to the eye while wasting resources.
Yep, I got 'sucked into' buying one of these 'CopCam' things (on a spur of the moment decision) from the local Post Office shop, because I had a couple of issue going on with security in a room I was staying in. Neverthess, I did this only after having also first read a copy of the operating instruction leaflet information for one of these that some somebody had given me. I wasn't really looking for (or expecting) any kind of 'Top Shelf' video camera-like quality in colour and image, more than just readable security imaging, so that wasn't an issue with me right from the start. As I understood it (according to reading the the product info I'd been given on this product), once turned on, the video cam was supposed to be activated upon the detection of bodily [or PIR/passive infra red] motion, and then go into pause and suspend 'stand-by' mode at a point when no further motion had been detected for more than 60 seconds. This sounded good to me, but unfortunately that is not how it worked when put into practical application. Also, I guessed that it would be just academic that there would be a 'grace' period to get yourself out of the way between pushing the button to turn the CopCam on and it actually 'arming' itself on standby mode (just like there logically is with setting many other portable PIR activated devices), but NOPE - and of course neither was/is there any mention or reference to this being the case in the instruction information. Yes, and there is the two, rather confusing, entirely different light signaling formats for charging, depending on whether you are charging vi USB from a PC, or charging via USB from a wall powerpoint adapter. THEN, there was the shock of finding out that, when I charge it from a powerpoint, the CopCam is active (and videoing, creating video file/s) the entire time that the unit is on charge [which makes no bloody sense]. So next time I charged it, I did it WITHOUT the micro SD inserted. Then, first practical application, I set the Cop Cam across the room facing the door, turned it on, and immediately left. Returned from town about 4 and a half hours later and decided to see how things had gone. Immediately found that the video could NOT be played by my Samsung phone, or any of my two other devices (could access the sound though). So I went up to our local library and accessed it on one of the library PCs via card reader. Like you said, I initially had some trouble doing that even there on the library PC. What I found was, I had about a total of 1hour 10 minutes of video (from go to whoa), BUT all in about 25 consecutive and equal length 3minute long video files, head to tail, each starting and carrying on from right where the previous one cuts. Very strange. From the start, there is me exiting the room and locking the door, then that file ends 3 minutes later, then the next one starts off right from where that one cuts, and is just exactly the same thing as the next 24 or so after that (till I guess where the battery got too flat after that at about the 1hr 1min mark) - all showing a completely still room, with locked door, and nothing happening except for slight background noise on audio. So I cleaned/deleted all the files on the SD (and had even more trouble managing that too). Next time, I set the CopCam up again facing the door, and left. The footage retrieved when I came back was exactly the same story, all of about 1hour and 10 minutes from it showing me leaving and locking the door, and again, ALL IN ABOUT 25 CONSECUTIVE FILES OF 3 MINUTES IN LENGTH. The fucker is now sitting in the bottom of a drawer. Really, the cam DOES NOT go into 'standby' mode when there is no motion detected (as it's it's info claims), a intruder would have to come some time within 1 hour and 10 minutes of you turning it on and leaving for it to be of any use. Very disappointed. Not planning to get sucked in like this again. Certainly would NOT have bought it if I'd known this first. Cheers
Just wondering if you have videos on Spy Camera Sunglasses or Camera Sunglasses? I would love to know if they're worth buying? What would you recommend beside buying a GoPro? Thanks.
I found the same issues you did however you actually got yours to run longer than mine. It does say on the box that it has a 45 minute run time. So. I'm guessing that's when the battery dies.
You did a good job in reviewing this proto-type video cam that im sure not going buy until they ever decide to improve it (which i think they never should of marketed it) ... get your refund ,people!
I think your review of this product is spot on. However have you ever looked at the interface for a Mobious camera. I believe that a similar interface maybe required. But since none of that is in the manual. Who knows?
The time stamp may be changed in a file on the SDCard, look in the rout directory with a usb cable attached to the camera to the computer, see if there are any files look at all files with a text editor and see if any have a time and date that you change to the correct time and date. Also there may be other setting you can change like the amount of time you can record each video segment. My friend bought a cheap Chinese dash cam that work this way you had to set the time and date, also other settings on a file on the SDCard but it explained how to do it in the instructions also anyone thinking about buying this thing and you were misled by there faults advertising saying it’s wireless well it’s not truly wireless no WiFi but I guess since it’s rechargeable i guess you can kind of say it’s wireless but the correct term would be cordless not wireless! Another issue with these cheap cameras is the included SDCard are junk the one that cam with my friend dash cam failed within a couple of days and he needed to replace it!
Will it run while the USB cable is plugged in? How long will the battery last overnight in motion detector mode. What type of battery does it take and is it replaceable?
I got one. It's not as bad as people say. I do think a lot of the issues are "use related" ones. Night vision does suck as it glares off of glass if you're using it as a security camera in a house looking outside. As a dash cam it's pretty good. Battery life sucks but that can be circumvented by plugging it into a power source so it won't die. The real negative is how it records. 3-5 minutes loops and can only support up to 32 gigs. In a hour you can fill up the 8 gig card that comes with it.
in the actual commercial it shows the green light night vision and here you show they are lying to customers with a garbage infrared(pink). Nope all in all... it's a piece of junk.
Thanks for this video. I was just about to purchase this camera, but decided to watch this first. Yes, its only 20 bucks, but all your 20 bucks will do is give you 50 dollars worth of headaches. Would rather spend more to get a product that will do what it's supposed to. The black shirt thing was the final nail in the coffin for me. So when the officer asked you for a description, and you tell them it was a guy with a purple shirt.....? yeah, not for me.
Excellent review. It's nice to see someone do an actual review rather than a 30 minute long video of someone who thinks they are funny or entertaining when they are just nauseating to watch. This review is all about the product and I thank you for that. Great job.... Keep them coming.
You are the only review person I trust.
Bought my dashcam and other things that I wanted to buy, and so far I am very , very happy with my choices, thanks to you... especially my dashcam.
SOUNDS TO ME LIKE IT'S WORTHLESS FOR WHAT THEY CLAIM IT WILL DO. THANK YOU FOR YOUR HONEST REVIEW. I WAS GOING TO BUY ONE, GLAD I SAW THIS FIRST.
Check out the review I did for a cheaper alternative if you really looking for one. Costs way less but has more it can do and is capable of taking video at 1080p. IR sensor is also much better.
I bought one and NOW saw this. I don’t even know how to get the video on my PC. Computer dummy that I am.
worse yet they don't even tell you audio in some states like mine is totally illegal
Don't buy one I did and there trash been better off just Burt my money
STOP YELLING!!!
I just love your reviews! Something about your tone & personality... You're soft-spoken & have no foul language! What a relief... You're reviews are honest & just detailed enough to be informative & not overwhelming or boring.
Plus... You're a dog lover which makes you a good human being in my book!
Thx for your time & effort so the rest of us can purchase things the educated way, being "informed"....
🗯👌😯🐶🌹🌵🌴🙂
13:19 who the heck is this? That's just creepy.
yo Alex at full moon, he turns into a zombie
He looks like he has no whiskers.
That is a zombie from Will Smiths " I am Legend "
Thanos
yo Alex
Your lookin a bit creepy yourself yo.
Bought it and it sucked. First it recorded in purple then it broke and won't work after 3 days. can't get a hold of anyone. my bank did a charge back. what thieves.
Officer Scott Savitt should be ashamed
Stop spying on people
All that seen on tv products are gimmicky
@@MrEasy1988 10% are pretty cool products tho...
i don't have a laptop or a cpu... are there any cheap cams that i can use and watch on my phone?
The Night vision, infa red makes you look like the zombie things in I am Legend
Not really the zombies had more color
That's what I was thinking lol.
I was about to comment the same thing haha
Infrared, not infa red.
😂 True like his facial was gone.
These cop cams are repackaged Chinese cheap cams from literally years ago. Ones like them were sold for under 10 dollars and were plagued with issues. Stopped recordings, bad jittery video, poor battery life, corruption of recording files etc. They came in many styles, such as pen, box and lapel mounted covert cameras. The cameras underlying design remained the same. As for changing the time, those old cameras required saving a specific text string formatted a certain way, including the date and time to the root of the mini sad card, and upon restart with card installed, the camera would write the date to the camera. Avoid these, unless it’s under $3.00 with mini sd card included.
Duh! Tank yu
😊b
I just saw this camera ad on tv today and now that I have seen your review, I just saved some bucks! Thanks!
Same here. Just saw the commercial and decided to check reviews.
Hell yeah that's the same thing I'm saying
TOTAL SCAM! If something has "Atomic", or "Magic", or "Tactical" in the name RUN!!! You can buy this exact camera directly from China for $5 (I have two!) and the only difference is the name stamped on it. It is JUNK.
@@jimbritttn yeah I got one off the wish app for like 4-5$ and it is total garbage!
@@davidsegerstrom9313 all that infomercial stuff is JUNK. This thing is made in the SAME factory! If it has "cop", "atomic", or "tatical" in it's name it is a SCAM
I appreciate the effort put forth to really review these products. You don't seem to gloss over or avoid performing certain tests.
I will mention here, as it was mentioned in a comment on the article you wrote, about changing timestamp w/cop cam. Now I haven't bought this product nor do I know for certain the efficacy of this info but I've seen it mentioned via several comments.
To CHANGE the timestamp, to change date and/or time, you must alter the "time.set.txt" file changing the values in said file to the current/correct date and time. I've also seen it posted that the values go "date" first then "time" and that the time should be set using military time format. So I hope this helps anyone still trying to set this.
Thanks Phil, that does work. Hopefully they have since updated their instructions to include this info because my instructions don't even mention it!
@@Freakinreviews not only am I not surprised that it's not included in your directions but wouldn't be surprised if it never makes it into the directions. I've seen cheap quality products where the instructions were even cheaper and missing key bits of information.
Nope would not buy this. Thank you for the review.
The infared is nightmare fuel.... But lived the video, keep it up.
This is how you set correct time/date on cameras like this...
TAG.txt or time.txt (test what works on your camera) file should be created on SD memory card you put in your camera
Connect the camera to your computer via USB cable
Create a TAG.txt file at the root directory of the Memory Disk, type the three line of text in this blank file just like below:
[date] 2012/01/01 12.00.00
Save the file and quit.
Unplug camera from computer.
Turn on the camera, then turn off the camera.
When you do this the camera reads the time.txt file, sets the time/date on the camera according to what you typed in the file and then erases the time.txt file
@@conanobrien1 I will give this a try! But to be clear... like, say I do that this minute, it would be... [date] 2019/15/02 1:19:00
@Willie Gordon I went against my judgement and reviews, bought one and am very happy with it.
@Breeze it raised my expectations lol was much better than expected.
When it sounds too good to be true, it usually is. Nice review. My Wife picked me up one for a stocking stuffer when she was in line at Menards. I didn't open it yet. I decided to check reviews before. You saved me such a headache. BLESS you and thanks 4 posting.
But did you get to return it for store credit if no reciept or past date ? I would.
I used to use cameras like this for my RC videos. To disable/change the time stamp, it’s normally required to place a text file inside the default directory. Additionally, the “motion activation” features really only work when connected to continuous power. These little cameras use up a lot of battery quickly and judging from the size, there’s probably not a lot to go around.
Glad I waited until they went on sale for 3.99$ before I purchased. Mine worked okay when hookup to continuously power supply.
13:36
Here we have a rare glimpse of Voldemort with his nose
It's odd how old the night cam mode made you look. It's almost like looking at a completely different person.
Yeah I thought so too! That's a glimpse of how Freakin' Reviews might look in 2058!
Freakin' reviews, walking dead edition
Exactly what I thought!
Yeah. Looks just like Nosferatu.
Thanos was here. Lucky he didn’t snap his fingers.
Oh crap!!! Cop 's-cam is not as it should be. One person got ripped off paying a larger amount. This review was spot on and easy to understand. I have a tac cam almost like this one with the same problems. I cannot get it to record. Maybe it was because I charged in the wall, and not on the computer. They have a lot of work to do to make these tiny camera's work. Love Bailey.
Thanos makes an appearance at 13:18
faheem: Yep, and he is as scary as ever!
Holy shiet lol
He should've snaptured all the shitty As Seen on TV products and kept the good ones
Thought the exact same thing.
Lmao
First impression: a lot of packaging for such a small unit. Next impression: Not impressed. More E-junk.
Sounds more like cop scam.... Thanks for another great review. Keep up the great work. ATB : )
Margery - Love your comment‼️‼️‼️
People like you that actually use the internet for GOOD AND INFORMATIVE REASONS. Gives me hope for us. Thanks for taking time out of your life.
The reason you were having issues playing and importing the files is while they are in AVI containers, the video is stored in m-jpeg codec format (yup, like the picture format).
The reason they do that is encoding chips for good compression formats like h.264 (what most cameras record in nowadays) are expensive (relatively speaking) and have higher battery demands, so they use chips that are extremely simple, cheap, and power sipping that use this dated crummy format.
Another plus (for them) is they can usually cheap out even more with the battery because it really takes almost nothing at all to power these chips. That's probably the issue you had, a terrible battery and a almost non-existant battery management/charging circuit.
You'll see this a lot with any Chinese cameras sold on Ebay for under 50 dollars (dash cams and 'spy' cams are famous for this format)
These exact cameras are sold all over Ebay as "Cube Camera"s. They've been around since the Polaroid Cube first came out years ago. This just seems like an investor was browsing Ebay and got the terrible idea to import these things and market them without realizing the poop build/design quality.
And yes, as people pointed out they have no InfraRed filter, since the moving shutter required to move it out of the way for night shots costs money and somewhat increases size. So that's why the colors are off.
In fact: if the sensor was more sensitive to IR, the color would really be bad but it doesn't look like they used a sensor that's very IR sensitive (again, they gotta save money) so they probably used a bargain basement sensor not really intended for night shots (because all sensors are at least a little IR sensitive). That would explain the crummy night time preformance.
Anyway, keep in mind I'm no expert, and just doing some speculating on the sensor.
Hope that helps.
Deepspace1insight wow.No expert? Sure could've fooled me lol.thanks for the insight
You sure does sound more credible than this video. I always say, "If you can't properly use a device, you are just too lazy to properly understand the instructions manual." Not that I am defending cheap the product, I just wanted to hear less "I can't," this is a review for goodness sakes. At the very least, do some research or ask people who may know. Regardless the actual question here is... why is this in my recommended?
Deepspace1insight
m Ok, that was a fun informative comment to read. Thanks.
It doesn't matter what is video storage , the cop cam should be user friendly ,not more works for user to come up with. So he is very smart and knows what he is talking about. You are lacking critical thinking due
What would be a great mini camera ?
I never had any problems - I bought it yesterday and it has done as advertised. I wonder if James pre-charged it and/or read the instructions correctly. I am not sure this is a fair review but time will tell. The ST card came out because the press button is ON the side not the top (check out the writing). The charging process is NOT confusing. It says in the instructions that the computer charging means it won't record...but it will record when plugged into the wall. It is definitely all in the instructions. The machine stopped recorded because it was not pre-charged.
You legit scared the hell out of me when it went to night vision. It makes you look INSANE LMAO
It kinda freaked me out hearing my normal voice come out of that old man's face!
@@Freakinreviews old man!? It looked like a vampire!
I was here first Dani.
iamlegend zombie
Man you looked like a one of those murderous monsters in Night mode. 😂😂😂Not buying this crap though
James, thankyou for doing a review of the cop cam. Even though nearly 4yrs have past since your review you saved a pensioner from wasting 50 precious dollars on a product I wouldn't now buy even if it were 2 dollars. Thanks again, I'm now a subscriber of your RUclips channel.👍😊
The night portion of this video was extremely creepy! Appropriate for October but far too creepy for everyday use!
Dixotube Grow a d#ck.😡
Also going to new jersey and while I am there I might pay a visit to see if this company really exists and if they do I will take my cop cam and stick it up there a..
Millenniumforce 🔥
Millenniumforce omg
Millenniumforce what's going on! I'm a big fan.
Millenniumforce z.
If you notice, a lot of infomercial products are all coming from 2 Bridge road In Fairfield NJ. Funny thing is I grew up and lived down the street from here,lol. I always make it a point to look at the he address on the commercial I’m boringly watching at the time,lol
This product looks like it is right up there with the Perfect Polly for the shittiest products I've seen you review. Thanks for showing us the stuff that sucks along with the stuff that works. I love your channel dude keep up the great work.
Thanks! I do think this will be a strong candidate for my Worst of 2018 list.
@@Freakinreviews can you find a camera similar thats the best?
pigglet and pooh bear agreed. Please review a tiny camera that was good.
@@mon573r6 why was, i want to buuy nuuuw one that is, not was
Great review, thank you. To take a picture, power on as per instructions, then hold power button for 2 additional seconds, then each time you want to take a picture you have to push the button. Robert
Thanks James, The Black turned purple during the day, and you seemed to become clean shaven during night filming. Very weird. I am looking for a decent priced cam. But it wont be that one. Be safe
I have one and was playing around the files could not be read on my computer....had mine for about 1 year after first try I just threw it in the drawer. Found it this evening and found your review on RUclips. I’m gonna keep trying and see if I get the same results as you.
Thank you for the honest, extensive review. I almost bought this as an extra "security" cam, but will not now. That TV hype can get you when you least expect it! Sadly, most ASOTV stuff turns out to be crap.
I just brought a Mini Cam the same one just not the Cop Cam. Your reviewed is spot on. Having a same problems with the time and date stamp. Can't get the setting right between the 720p vs1080p(looks the same) and getting the night vision to work. I think is best use for is getting footage of baby talking and learning how to walk.
Can you look into the SQ11 mini camera. The cop cam is a variant of the SQ11. The SQ11 can be found on Amazon for $15. It also can be used as a webcam/dash cam?
For the date try this:
Connect the mini video camera to the computer. Setting the time is done by creating a text file named «TIMERSET.txt» in the root directory of the device's memory card, with the following content:
«YYYYMMDDHHMMSS» «Y» (or «N», if you do not want the date and time stamp displayed on video files)
For example, «20170625140003 Y»
After saving the file, disconnect the video camera from the computer and turn it on.
I have one of these mini cameras, not this specific cop cam brand, and the thing I never understood about that text file is what good is it if you only use the camera occasionally instead of leaving it on constantly.
I haven't even tried to use mine in months so I'm guessing next time I go to use it it will say it's some random date and time from months ago.
I have that exact camera and it works okay. Daytime image quality up close is surprisingly good. Up close about 10 feet.
I seen it advertised on Australian TV through Global Shop Direct for around $79, where similar on eBay is around $19.
You can find this camera in a million brand variations and they all suck just like this one. Same junk different packaging.
Yeah, except that "As Seen On TV" sticker bumped the price up about $30.
I wish I could answer that in the affirmative. I've spent way too much on small covert cams and junk is practically a trademark. Too many hit-and-miss recordings and unpredictable motion capture. If they were smaller, more portable, and weatherproof, I'd almost rather use a dashcam. At least the technology is more honest and constantly improving.
Robin Campbell you are right!
I think you just happened to get a bad one. My wife came home with one of these and SHE quickly figured out how to turn it on, charge it. I added a bigger SD card (16GB) and she has been using it during her 30 mile drive to and from work for the last 2 days and it has worked perfectly. I also had to use Windows Media Player to view the video clips, but the color on them was awesome, and the motion sensor worked perfect. She is going to keep using it until the battery finally dies. But I was impressed that, even though she never turned it off during the day at work, its still going. When her car was parked, the video recording would stop until there was motion detected. I agree, the instructions sucked about the timestamp. It uses the wrokd date to NAME the video clips, but for some reason the timestamp recorded IN the video frames just started working correctly. I have no idea why. I liked it so much, I am going to buy one for myself to play with. . Thanks for your video.
Just an SQ11 cube camera from china, I have one myself (the SQ11, not this cop cam version) and tried it out recently, it's not too bad so long as you're expecting it to be pretty rubbish. I've stuck an IR cut filter over the lens of mine though as the stock lens has no IR cut hence why things look purpley-red...
I bought a couple SQ11, months ago, 10 usd each on Bangood. Poor to lousy battery life, confusing interface, date stamp has to be edited each time its used (it doesn't remember time otherwise). Royal pita to use. Can't figure out how to use it as a regular wired-in security cam. If it worked as a wired-in security can it might be worth it though. Not recommended.
@@garywheeler7039 I bought some about 2 or 3 years ago. 32gb max for sd card. Records good in day time. Terrible at night. Constant power will allow it to record longer and it does loop recording. Won't recommend using as security camera as it does not do good beyond 10-15 feet.
Oh my god, you look super scary in the dark on the cop cam. Nightmare fuel @ 13:26
Thanks for sharing this with us...!
You saved me from getting ripped off...!
Have a great day and be blessed.
I have the same thing... got it about a year ago and it was confusing for me too lol! And knowing how it was orientated the video when it did work was upside down on one test. Glad to know I was not the only one to have had problems with this or thought it was confusing
So, let me get this straight. It’s marketed as a security camera but has a very, very narrow field of view, poor picture quality, no real night vision or IR no battery life and to top it all off, it also has horrible CMOS tearing. What a complete scam. That thing probably has a total cost of not even $5 from China. Somebody’s making bank on these...
This demonstrates why real cameras like the Arlo or even Blink cost so much more.
Good god $5 dollars....no way! Maybe maybe a $1 dollar and that is pushing it. I am aware of the sd card but its a china card and it by itself is produced for Penneys.
Phlop Alopagus You have to figure the box, cable and plastic casing (though that likely is just a variation of a standard mold) into the cost. In parts just for the camera it would be around the 2-3 range with the battery and microSD the most expensive components at around a dollar each. They have to have some sort of “custom” casing for the camera as well as packaging however, for this type of “as seen on tv” product which adds to the cost. The sensor itself is likely peanuts as it looks to be a 640x480 sensor upscaled with a basic camera chip that just only saves when large changes are detected. Landed, in bulk, I would expect a cost in the 5-10 range. If they’re any more then that landed, even with the SD card, somethings wrong.
Alexlfm you get what you pay for 😑
Hello, thanks for your review. I thought that this connected to wifi to become a security camera but I'm also like you. Where is the app for this camera that's how you preview the video right? Instead of the computer.
Could you view this through an app?
This is literally an off the shelf rebadge of the SQ11 Chinese Cubecam, you can get it for 5 dollars on aliexpress and it's the original, just as good product ( i have one)
the timestamp is located on a configuration document you can open with notepad when the camera is plugged into a computer. you should also see a Y or N line at the end for turning the time stamp on or off.
Always love ur reviews but this was fantastic.....if it's ever sold in Ireland, won't buy it!!!! Great video & was super seeing so much of Bailey ❤️
No wonder they were on Clearance BEFORE Christmas! Started out at $40, Clearance for $20! I’m glad I saw this before I wasted my money!
Had to sub to your channel! Good stuff!
Saw their ad earlier today, and I was like there's no way it's going to be that good for that price.
You did a great job explaining everything and now I am set to do 30 minute video clips with jumpy vision with coloration that makes black look purple and not to mention the lack of view which is less than 140 degrees
This review is crazy good. Got this as a Xmas present and you basically did everything I wanted to do to 'vet' this little cam. THANK YOU! Subscribed!
Geez! Love at first sight
OMG. Thanks, James! I had the same issue you had when attempting to view recorded footage...I gave up and stuck the CopCam in a drawer for several years. Today I attempted to use it, and I was lucky enough to find your video, explaining the major flaws in this gadget. It's awful. Worst of all, it's totally unreliable for the main purpose it's designed for by turning itself off at random. Anyways, I appreciate you for taking the time to review the CopCam. Mine is headed to the Goodwill! lol
Almost bought this. Thanks for the review.
Yeah me too
Thanks for the info almost bought one.
Today was my first day using it. I found it very jumpy when walking. It worked a lot better outside than inside. I was able to take photos after seeing the green light come on. I took them one by one, and they did show up in a photos folder on my laptop. As for the video player, I use VLC which read the .avi files flawlessly plus many other file types. Thanks for the review. I'm gonna look at others as well and try to learn as much as I can about this. Thanks, also, for clearing up my confusion about the inaccurate time stamp and date. That is definitely a big negative.
Honestly, I think you're being way too generous on this product, especially with the video quality. In addition, what's up with the excessive amount of packaging for such a tiny product? lol
To prevent people from stealing it! 😁
Unfortunately, I purchased this BEFORE watching your review... You are spot on James! You highlighted all the same issues I've experienced...
You should do the commercial then do the review :P I never heard of this thing
That's a great idea, I wish he would show the commercials for the items first but he may not be able to due to copyright laws, I'm not sure.
@@Kitty-Marks Mike jevens does.
That would be cool. Or maybe even just a clip of the commercial?
I saw this thing in Walmart today for $39.99...
@@RodricKing Jesus
Should've seen your review before buying one. I wanted to get one to use overnight to watch over my carport. Didn't realize how poor the range is for night-vision, and the carport light being on doesn't help at all either, just makes it nothing but bright purple instead of black. Can't even see the cars.
Daytime it records well enough though. I was able to view the videos through VLC Media Player, if you're curious.
I hate to see such wasteful packaging
Agreed, it wanted to look important but could fit all the stuff in a cigarette pack.
It's waste, unnecessary garbage. No one's crying except the planet we're burying in trash.
Yes, packaging is just a little plastic and cardboard… but when you multiply that by the billions of products being sold around the world, it adds up. Every manufacturer should make an effort to reduce the amount of packaging used for their products. Remember, we don't inherit this planet from our parents, we borrow it from our children.
That package is mostly air and if it was much smaller the retailers would have shoplifters slipping it into their pockets.
@Josh Check out how much plastic is in our oceans before thinking that next time.
Download the manual online too, easier in the eyes since the one with the cam is almost micro film! First charge should stay in the charger for 30 min after the cam registers charged.
This is really funny dude, I'm at the shop at the moment and I wanted to buy this camera, exactly the same camera, but I did a search and found your review, so I took the time and watched your review. Actually I decided not to buy it. Well I bought a $68 one, which is - I really hope - a bit better.
Thanks for that correct review! 👋
DodoBenny I’m standing in line to be checked out , seen this plus your comment and put it back lol
Which one did you buy. Does it work better that cop cam
Thank you! Came close to purchasing this yesterday and decided to find a review! You've saved me so much frustration! Subscribed!
James your the best! Keep these coming!
Was thinking about buying this at Bed Bath and Beyond, just simply to see how my little Shih Tzu handled me being gone, while being housed in her den or cage, only when I have to leave home. You just saved me the hassle of having to return it.
I've said it once and I'll keep saying it. Everytime I get ready to purchase something I look to your channel
to see if it's been reviewed and again I get slapped back into reality of " don't buy it" or " buy it" ..thank you for always fully testing the products.
2:42 lmao I'm hearing the f word young man 😂😂😂
The night version makes you look like one of the dudes on “I AM LEGEND” 😂
Your review made me CRACK THE FUCK UP !!!!!!
Thanks for that very good review. You really put it through its paces. I saw it on TV yesterday and actually went onto their site to look closer at it last night but thankfully held off buying. It fails in so many areas. The footage of you at night was a disaster - it didn't look like you in the least! The daytime coloring didn't bother me and still could be used as evidence. But without a current time stamp, well, the cops would not accept it. I once had a very small camera I bought from a spy camera store, was supposed to film for two continuous hours. The most was 25 mins - around the same as the copcam. That was for the first few times. Thereafter, it would film for about 10 minutes before closing down with a dead battery. I ended up tossing it.
I am so glad I came across your Channel I wanted one of these cop cams so bad I could not stand it thank you again for doing this video . I have real bad anger issues and I believe if I bought this and it did not work as much as I want something like this I would have probably took a bulldozer and bulldoze down my house and everybody else's in the neighborhood . Again I would like to thank you .
Junk
You did a great review. I bought this and have not used it yet but I will try to get my own results. However your review was perfect and gave me details what to expect.
Good review but I wouldn't buy it
Good call. I think that's the point: it is a piece of junk. Thank goodness for James.
you don't word that right. shouldn't that be, 'Good review, it made me conclude that I better not buy it' (or something along those lines)?
LouisianaLights&SirensCollector hey fellow Louisianian 😊
@@jgw5491 i agree! i as at bed bath beyond and picked this crap up i mean cop cam standing in line i was wondering if it worked well as the line got shorter i was thinking i wished i seen James review first, just in case it didn't work well then it was my turn to pay for the other things i got i decided to not buy thank god because i hate returning stuff i bough. thank you ever time i watch your review i give thanks, you stopped me from making a mistake
@@harrickvharrick3957 That was the same thing I was thinking lol. Wording is everything. Like you said "you don't word that right." Shouldn't that be "you didn't word that right." (or something along those lines)?
Thanks for the heads up on the cop cam . I was wondering if it was worth getting.
this is basically a total failure across the board, whats this thing even MEANT to be used for?
You can't expect much from an $8.99 camera!
@steve c I don't understand why they are selling it for 40 dollars.
PROFIT!
ascendence it’s the perfect camera for fools who believe the commercial and want to waste $40
In the commercial it was used as a nanny cam and something to go jogging with
Your first test failed to turn on camera when the Micro chip fell out...you did not seem to rehit the "4" button again. Also, cop cam works on a 24/7 loop. Mine works pretty well; I do get the nighttime purple hues when the lights are on in the house...in the dark, I can see white teeth and glowing eyes from 7' away...too close for my comfort! LOL! In the daytime, I get up to 8- 3-6 minute clips. So, about 30 minutes as well. A tree branch or shadow swaying can waste recorder time and space...but it loops...can also loop right over a person or car that you needed to see from the hour before. There are def probs with the cop cam...but if you are stepping out and roommate is stealing your cash or workmate is stealing your food from fridge, it will catch them. I tested mine in two different kitchens, one in the daytime and one at nighttime. I basically caught myself loading the baby in the first 3 cips...then there were clips but nothing in them...might have been the dog and was already out of the frame by the time it turned on to record. Now, that I saw your clips, I think that was the issue. The other kitchen was on Christmas Evening, lights on and dark outdoors, it was pink room with purple cast ppl and the conversation was picked up well, even at 20' away. My family never knew it was on, never saw it on the hutch and after opening gifts, I showed them the camera and they all laughed at the footage. It caught 8 clips at 5-6 minutes each clip. That was with constant motion in the area. I have yet to get the camera to take pictures.
I would give this cop cam 3 stars for a dorm room or office area to catch the thief in the act up close and quick trip away from home, but zero stars for a long-lasting issue that needs constant surveillance. I have deer cameras that cost as much that do both video and pictures, I have better night infra red results and the video and photos are really good! No sound on mine however. They are larger and bulky but the batteries last for months!
The USB cards are an easier upload. My Cuddeback is my favorite...I've caught several window peepers and I didn't go easy on them! When accusing someone, get PROOF! I love watching them lie themselves into a corner before you whip out the USB card! YES!!! I keep one on every corner of every buildng I own and drive way. They give warning when the bright flash of the one by my window goes off...that is the last defense camera...letting an intruder know, at least ONE camera just took their photo while rest were on infra-red. I've caught farmers tearing up my land and much more. You'd be surprised what happens on a dead end road! LOL! Oh the dirty secrets revealed each time I would upload my camera USB-- some things just can not be unseen. Protection and defensive action -- works!
I just bought one but after seeing this, I am bringing it back. Thank you for your help.
You know that's really not fair oh, I was going to say the same thing. Excuse me, I have to go back to Walmart to get my money back!
Thanks, great review. Unfortunately I got mine from Christmas and am stuck with it. I think you have to edit the time stamp in the folder file, but haven't figured out the format.
I care about the environment. Look at the packaging around the product it's 80% waste.
This kind of packaging is designed to grab store shelf space making it more appealing to the eye while wasting resources.
I hear ya. There should be a box blowing around my front yard any day now.
I was also Disturbed by the amount of packaging!
The cameras themselves are garbage too.
@@cjbnoland7036 All that packaging is to prevent shoplifting.
Just recycle it, problem solved.
Yep, I got 'sucked into' buying one of these 'CopCam' things (on a spur of the moment decision) from the local Post Office shop, because I had a couple of issue going on with security in a room I was staying in. Neverthess, I did this only after having also first read a copy of the operating instruction leaflet information for one of these that some somebody had given me. I wasn't really looking for (or expecting) any kind of 'Top Shelf' video camera-like quality in colour and image, more than just readable security imaging, so that wasn't an issue with me right from the start.
As I understood it (according to reading the the product info I'd been given on this product), once turned on, the video cam was supposed to be activated upon the detection of bodily [or PIR/passive infra red] motion, and then go into pause and suspend 'stand-by' mode at a point when no further motion had been detected for more than 60 seconds. This sounded good to me, but unfortunately that is not how it worked when put into practical application. Also, I guessed that it would be just academic that there would be a 'grace' period to get yourself out of the way between pushing the button to turn the CopCam on and it actually 'arming' itself on standby mode (just like there logically is with setting many other portable PIR activated devices), but NOPE - and of course neither was/is there any mention or reference to this being the case in the instruction information.
Yes, and there is the two, rather confusing, entirely different light signaling formats for charging, depending on whether you are charging vi USB from a PC, or charging via USB from a wall powerpoint adapter. THEN, there was the shock of finding out that, when I charge it from a powerpoint, the CopCam is active (and videoing, creating video file/s) the entire time that the unit is on charge [which makes no bloody sense]. So next time I charged it, I did it WITHOUT the micro SD inserted.
Then, first practical application, I set the Cop Cam across the room facing the door, turned it on, and immediately left. Returned from town about 4 and a half hours later and decided to see how things had gone. Immediately found that the video could NOT be played by my Samsung phone, or any of my two other devices (could access the sound though). So I went up to our local library and accessed it on one of the library PCs via card reader. Like you said, I initially had some trouble doing that even there on the library PC. What I found was, I had about a total of 1hour 10 minutes of video (from go to whoa), BUT all in about 25 consecutive and equal length 3minute long video files, head to tail, each starting and carrying on from right where the previous one cuts. Very strange. From the start, there is me exiting the room and locking the door, then that file ends 3 minutes later, then the next one starts off right from where that one cuts, and is just exactly the same thing as the next 24 or so after that (till I guess where the battery got too flat after that at about the 1hr 1min mark) - all showing a completely still room, with locked door, and nothing happening except for slight background noise on audio.
So I cleaned/deleted all the files on the SD (and had even more trouble managing that too).
Next time, I set the CopCam up again facing the door, and left. The footage retrieved when I came back was exactly the same story, all of about 1hour and 10 minutes from it showing me leaving and locking the door, and again, ALL IN ABOUT 25 CONSECUTIVE FILES OF 3 MINUTES IN LENGTH.
The fucker is now sitting in the bottom of a drawer. Really, the cam DOES NOT go into 'standby' mode when there is no motion detected (as it's it's info claims), a intruder would have to come some time within 1 hour and 10 minutes of you turning it on and leaving for it to be of any use. Very disappointed. Not planning to get sucked in like this again. Certainly would NOT have bought it if I'd known this first. Cheers
Can it be recharged by the USV cable plutgged into the camera and then plugging the other end of the cable into a cigarette lighter adapter?
13:19 to 14:13 Damn you look like Thanos out of Avengers.
Just wondering if you have videos on Spy Camera Sunglasses or Camera Sunglasses? I would love to know if they're worth buying? What would you recommend beside buying a GoPro? Thanks.
😔 Darn I had such high hopes 😏Thank you dearly for saving me the headache 💜
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I found the same issues you did however you actually got yours to run longer than mine. It does say on the box that it has a 45 minute run time. So. I'm guessing that's when the battery dies.
You did a good job in reviewing this proto-type video cam that im sure not going buy until they ever decide to improve it (which i think they never should of marketed it)
... get your refund ,people!
I think your review of this product is spot on.
However have you ever looked at the interface for a Mobious camera. I believe that a similar interface maybe required.
But since none of that is in the manual. Who knows?
I think given this and the dash cam you reviewed a while back, the conclusion is that you should never buy an As Seen On TV camera
I got my Copcam.. Had same problem the red indicator turned off in a minute or so..Not good to catch a bad people on night time.
The time stamp may be changed in a file on the SDCard, look in the rout directory with a usb cable attached to the camera to the computer, see if there are any files look at all files with a text editor and see if any have a time and date that you change to the correct time and date. Also there may be other setting you can change like the amount of time you can record each video segment. My friend bought a cheap Chinese dash cam that work this way you had to set the time and date, also other settings on a file on the SDCard but it explained how to do it in the instructions also anyone thinking about buying this thing and you were misled by there faults advertising saying it’s wireless well it’s not truly wireless no WiFi but I guess since it’s rechargeable i guess you can kind of say it’s wireless but the correct term would be cordless not wireless! Another issue with these cheap cameras is the included SDCard are junk the one that cam with my friend dash cam failed within a couple of days and he needed to replace it!
Will it run while the USB cable is plugged in? How long will the battery last overnight in motion detector mode. What type of battery does it take and is it replaceable?
Love how misleading the name is, they're trying to get people to think that these are the cameras police use.
I got one. It's not as bad as people say. I do think a lot of the issues are "use related" ones. Night vision does suck as it glares off of glass if you're using it as a security camera in a house looking outside. As a dash cam it's pretty good. Battery life sucks but that can be circumvented by plugging it into a power source so it won't die. The real negative is how it records. 3-5 minutes loops and can only support up to 32 gigs. In a hour you can fill up the 8 gig card that comes with it.
You paid $40 for 8GB memory card
I paid 54.10 i got audio no video
Thank you so much for the review. Did you test any mini and worth Dash cam ? Thank you again.
This can go in your boneyard, pass.
Yep. And stay there forever. This is litteraly trash.
You are a much needed service. Thanks for all the reviews! Grateful.
in the actual commercial it shows the green light night vision and here you show they are lying to customers with a garbage infrared(pink).
Nope all in all... it's a piece of junk.
Actually there are several good Chinese products on the market but this one is definitely a piece of $hit.
Thanks for this video. I was just about to purchase this camera, but decided to watch this first. Yes, its only 20 bucks, but all your 20 bucks will do is give you 50 dollars worth of headaches. Would rather spend more to get a product that will do what it's supposed to. The black shirt thing was the final nail in the coffin for me. So when the officer asked you for a description, and you tell them it was a guy with a purple shirt.....? yeah, not for me.
All in all I would say this Cop Cam is a piece of junk.
I think it just detects motion but like physical motion like when the camera is bumped. Everytime a clip started there was some motion
This was just released in Australia. Thanks so much for saving me my hard earned money.. .
How big is it? I'm thinking about getting one and mounting it on a flatcar for my N-Scale train set.
Thanks James. Reminded of 'let the buyer beware'. Glad I watched your thorough presentation and saved myself Aus$80.
10 in california