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Hitcase Pro for iPhone 5 Review

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hitcase pro for iphone 5 helmet cam review
Hitcase
Price:  $130 List
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Manufacturer:   Hitcase
By Chris McNamara ⋅ Founder and Editor-in-Chief  ⋅  Sep 3, 2013

Our Verdict

The Hitcase Pro for iPhone 5 has been discontinued, but Hitcase still manufacturers this case for newer iPhones.
REASONS TO BUY
Durable
Good value (if you have an iPhone 5)
REASONS TO AVOID
No high-speed filming
Not great high contrast performance
The Hitcase is a rugged case designed to work with the iPhone 5. This case will water- and shockproof your iPhone so it's ready for your outdoor adventures. If you already have an iPhone 5 and you are in the market for a POV camera, this case is a great option and wins our Best Buy award.

Our Analysis and Test Results

High Speed Filming


The Hitcase was limited to the video capabilities of the iPhone 5, which does not offer high speed filming.

High Resolution


The Hitcase is limited to the video capabilities of the iPhone 5, which is 1080 30fps.

High Contrast


We were disappointed with the Hitcase's performance in our High Contrast test, but to be fair, this had more to do with the limitations of the iPhone 5 than the Hitcase itself.

Mounting Versatility


Hitcase mounts are compatible to GoPro's mounts and is advertized as such. The Hitcase has a limited offering of mounts itself, but the included sticky mount is very versatile sticking to uneven surfaces. The ability to adjust pan direction with the included mount was a nice touch that some of the other cameras lacked. Another notable mount was the chest mount that was very comfortable to wear for long durations. The Hitcase is also compatible with GoPro mounts, creating a diverse set of mounting options.

Durability


The Hitcase is waterproof up to 30 feet and has ShockSeal technology to protect it from drops. However, knowing that doesn't make it any less scary to dunk your iPhone in a lake.

Ease of Sharing


The Hitcase relies on using an iPhone 5 as its camera. Because it's a smart phone, it offers the best ease of sharing of all of the devices tested. The ability to download apps to edit and then upload footage while still in the field makes this by far the easiest to share your footage with.

Weight


The Hitcase was our heaviest tester coming in at 7.85 oz. including the iPhone 5 (112 grams). The weight of the device made it slightly awkward to use as a helmet cam.

Waterproof


The Hitcase is fully water sealed, so you don't have to worry about getting that precious iPhone wet. One of the great features is that its waterproof case is still touch sensitive, allowing for full use of your phone.

Megapixels


The iPhone 5 can take 8 megapixel still images.

LCD Screen


The large high definition screen on the iPhone 5 allowed for image review right in the field, so you can make sure that you nailed the shot.

Smart Phone Connectivity


iPhone 5.

GPS


You can download a free app from Hitcase that allows for GPS functionality.

External mic jack


No external mic input.

Max Memory Card


Subject to iPhone 5 internal memory.

Best Applications


The Hitcase is a great standalone product if you have an iPhone 5 and don't want to invest in a whole new camera system, and it's also great addition to other cameras as well. Now that other cameras such as the GoPro Hero 3 Black Edition offer smart phone connectivity, the Hitcase can be used in conjunction with them to allow you to have a waterproof case to view your GoPro's shot from. Plus it has a fisheye lens and can be used as your B camera.

— Chris McNamara