NEED TO KNOW

Digital video
These helmet cams record to memory cards or to built-in memory, using various formats, frame rates and resolutions. All promise television-quality video or better, although none records in high definition.

Field of view
The amount of scene before it that a camera lens can capture — generally, the wider, the better. Most here have a field of view of about 100 degrees, but the Oregon Scientific has 53 degrees, and the GoPro covers a mighty 170 degrees.

Mounting
All these cameras can be mounted horizontally on top of a helmet; the Twenty20 and Vio also allow for side mounting.

Waterproofing
All the cameras on test are at least water and dust-resistant, which means they can cope with rain, snow and the occasional mud splash. Only the GoPro can be fully immersed in water.

Prices quoted were the best found online as we go to press

BEST FOR ALL-ROUND ABILITY

TWENTY20 VHOLDR £300

The VholdR is light, tough and easy to use, with only power and record switches on its brushed-aluminium body. You can mount it almost anywhere (a helmet fixture costs £16), and its rotating lens and built-in laser guides are handy for levelling and lining up. Its 640x480-pixel video clips were smooth and sharp (though a bit grimy in the dark) and sound was loud and clear in all but a high wind. Transferring footage is easy, as connecting the VholdR to your computer starts up a program for editing and sharing clips online.

Verdict: A robust and straightforward action hero.

5/5

VIEW A SAMPLE VIDEO SHOT

Explore Personal Tech

• InGear