The Best Body-Worn Cameras

8th January 2025

The Best Body-Worn Cameras

Body-worn cameras (BWCs) have become essential tools for a range of sectors, from law enforcement, security, and events staff. The purpose of a body worn camera is to record

interactions, which helps to enhance things like accountability especially for situations that include security, body worn cameras help to provide an unbiased account of events.

However, with so many options available, selecting the right body-worn camera can feel overwhelming. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the key features and top models to consider.

Features every security radio needs

Every sector has its own needs when it comes to radios, but security radios in particular come with their own set of requirements.

Resolution: High-resolution Body Worn cameras provide clearer images. This is especially important for capturing identifiable features like faces or license plates.

“See Clearly” Many BWCs ensure optimal performance in low-light conditions. An integrated LCD display however, allows for instant playback, ensuring critical details are not missed. Make sure your body worn camera offers “see clearly” features.

Data acquisition Modern cameras often include a platform for secure data storage and management. This means that users can review, manage, and share their videos efficiently from a computer. Depending on your sector, this is absolutely essential. For example those in security will need their BWCs to have this feature in the event of situations that need unbiased data.

<strong<bluetooth A bluetooth functionality will ensure a more seamless communication with other devices, enhancing your body worn cameras overall efficiency.

Wi-Fi Built-in Wi-Fi allows for at the-time data uploads, and features like instant sharing of footage!

Additional Features: Some additional features that you should look for from your body worn cameras are…

- Durability: Look for high ratings of water and dust resistance.
- Pre-Recording: Capture events that occur seconds before recording starts. Meaning you don’t need to press record.

So, who do we recommend body worn cameras to?

The Best Sectors for Body-Worn Cameras

Body-worn cameras have found their way into numerous industries, this is because they provide benefit like safety, and evidence collection. Below are some key sectors where we think body worn cameras are absolutely invaluable:

1. Law enforcement / Police

Accountability: They will provide an unbiased account of interactions, this will help to ensure transparency.
Evidence Collection: Captures footage that can be used for evidence
Officer Safety: Acts as a deterrent for aggressive behaviour towards officers.

2. Security Services

Event Monitoring: Ideal for security at events or venues, helping to monitor and document any incidents that may occur.
Conflict Resolution: Provides a visual record to resolve any problems that may happen, from a completely unbiased point of view..

3. Healthcare

Patient Safety: Ensures proper care and handling in high-stress environments like paramedics.
Staff Protection: Reduces risks in environments where staff may face aggressive behaviour.

Our Recommendations for Body worn Cameras

1. Hytera VM685

The Hytera VM685 stands out as a versatile and robust option for a range of sectors.

This body worn camera offers top of the range video and image capture solutions which are perfect for security and public safety staff.

Hytera VM685 Features:

Low-Light Performance: Features infrared LEDs for clear video capture even in darkness.
Emergency Functionality: A dedicated emergency button enables instant communication via Hytera radios.
Data Management: Compatible with the MDM platforms, making data storage, sharing, and management nice and straightforward.
Connectivity Options: Equipped with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, this BWC ensures a seamless integration for different devices and offers real-time data uploads.
Durability: Designed to withstand harsh environments with its waterproof and impact-resistant build.

This model is ideal for those requiring a reliable and feature-rich camera for demanding scenarios.

2. Hytera VM550D

The Hytera VM550D is a compact and lightweight BWC that prioritises convenience without compromising performance. This is the entry level body cam for Hytera, as it offers a compact, rugged and lightweight option which is perfect for capturing evidence.

Hytera VM550D features:

Resolution: Captures high-quality video with excellent clarity. This BWC offers 1080p HD video and recordings.
Connectivity: Supports Bluetooth and Wi-Fi for enhanced functionality.
Design: Lightweight and easy to wear, making it suitable for long shifts.
User-Friendly Interface: Simple controls ensure quick and efficient operation.
Battery life: 7+ hours of continuous battery life.

Its compact size and versatile features make the VM550D a practical choice for those who value portability and ease of use.

3. Motorola VB400

Known for its exceptional durability and reliability, the Motorola VB400 is designed to endure the toughest conditions. Its compact size and versatile features make the VM550D a practical choice for those working in security. It offers full shift recording, pre-recording and many more capabilities that provide multiple ways to connect your team.

Data Security: Ensures secure data encryption for protection and compliance.
Flexible Mounting options: offers a range of flexibility to this BWC no matter your situation as it is compatible with various mounting options.
Pre record features: Capture unexpected interactions with its pre record features, means that it is ideal for capturing unexpected moments.. Pre-record captures a continuous loop of audio and video before the moment the camera starts recording – all without the need to hit record.

Battery life: The Motorola VB400 records up to 12 hours on a single charge and its shift-long recording means it offers better protection for more hostile experiences, like lone workers in security.

Rugged Build: Withstands impacts and adverse weather conditions, this makes it perfect for outdoor use.

The Motorola VB400 is a top choice for users needing a durable, long-lasting camera with advanced security features.

Final thoughts

Choosing the right body-worn camera depends on understanding your specific needs and priorities. For example, why do you need a body worn camera? What sector do you work in?

From high-resolution recording to advanced connectivity and durability, modern BWCs offer a range of features to meet a range of diverse requirements.

We’d recommend you invest in a reliable model like the Hytera VM685, VM550D, or Motorola VB400 which offers important features, this way you can ensure accurate recordings, enhanced accountability, and peace of mind when working.

The Best Body-Worn Cameras