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My highly experienced team has tested a range of tools for shooting dramatic timelapse footage. Whether you want to track the progress of a DIY project or shoot a sequence of the changing seasons, there are several ways you can capture the passage of time on video. And because we’ve tested thousands of cameras since 2008, we know what quality results look like.
The Brinno TLC2020 stood out in my team's tests as a fantastic example of what a timelapse camera can do in 2025. I think it offers great value for most people, with a useful waterproof case, versatile mounting options and a user-friendly interface. It’s also conveniently compact and has a long battery life. That said, professionals would be better served by the Enlaps Tikee 4.
I'm TechRadar's Cameras editor and, with over 15 years in the photo and video industry (and most of those in the world of tech journalism), I've developed a deeply technical knowledge and practical experience with all things camera related.
Your smartphone works well in a pinch, but you're going to want a proper camera to create beautiful timelapse sequences, especially those covering extended periods. Key features to keep in mind are image resolution and field-of-view, as well as maximum timelapse length, battery life and the ability to create timelapse videos in-camera, rather than exporting to a computer first.
Why you can trust my judgement
Every timelapse camera in this guide has been extensively tested, either by myself or a member of my expert reviews team. TechRadar has been running in-depth camera reviews for more than 15 years. The collective experience of our seasoned team means we know exactly what to look for when it comes to capturing stills and video of any kind, including timelapse footage.
☑️ 100s of cameras reviewed
☑️ 15 years of product testing
☑️ Over 16,000 products reviewed in total
☑️ Nearly 200,000 hours testing tech
We test every timelapse camera in authentic conditions, from setup to usage day and night. We focus on several factors, including image quality, ease of use and interval settings, as well as durability and battery life. Whether for capturing a single sunrise or documenting a months-long build, we evaluate how each model performs for different types of timelapse.
⭣ Read more
Our reviews go far beyond spec sheets. Because our ratings are based on independent, in-depth testing, you know that you can trust our feedback when you make a buying decision.
We test timelapse cameras over several days in different locations to see how they cope with different weather conditions and environments, assessing factors such as ease of use, build quality and battery life, as well as overall image quality, to confirm that all of our recommendations hit the mark. The focus of our testing is the time-lapse functionality rather than any other features that may be available, although additional features have been covered in our reviews.
Timelapse seqeuences captured range from 30 minutes to several hours depending on the interval frequency. Crucially, the battery life of these dedicated cameras can last several days and even months with those connected to solar power. It has not always been possible to capture sequences over extended periods that these cameras are capable of, but we have used long-term scheduling functionality to test ease of use and reliability.
With decades of photographic experience and having shot timelapse sequences with DSLR, mirrorless, compact, action and smartphone cameras, we've found dedicated time-lapse cameras much easier, providing straight out-of-camera videos without the need to process photos and convert them into a timelapse.
Meet the team
My team of reviewers has amassed many years of camera experience and testing, covering all of the latest and greatest cameras in the last 20 years, and can all appreciate the benefits of a dedicated camera like a digital compact versus simply using a smartphone.
James Abbott is a professional photographer and freelance photography journalist. He contributes articles about photography, cameras and drones to a wide range of magazines and websites where he applies a wealth of experience to testing the latest photographic tech.
Alistair Charlton is based in London and has worked as a freelance technology and automotive journalist for over a decade. A lifelong tech enthusiast, Alistair has written extensively about dash cams and robotic vacuum cleaners for TechRadar, among other products. As well as TechRadar, he also writes for Wired, T3, Forbes, The Independent, Digital Camera World and Grand Designs Magazine, among others.
Today's best timelapse cameras
Why you can trust TechRadar We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you're buying the best. Find out more about how we test.
Below you'll find full write-ups for each of the best timelapse cameras in my list. Either me or a member of my team has tested each one extensively, so you can be sure that our recommendations can be trusted.
The best timelapse camera for most people
Brinno TLC 2020 video sample
The Brinno TLC 2020 is the timelame camera we recommend for most people. It strikes a good balance when it comes to cost, features, design and ease-of-use, while also offering flexibility via a wide range of accessory kits.
We’re fans of the compact, lightweight design of the TLC 2020, and how with its waterproof case and mounting options it can be used almost anywhere. Both long and short timelapse projects are achievable with this camera, and there are multiple shooting modes to help get exactly the shot you want.
The minimum focusing distance of 60cm means this isn’t a timelapse camera best suited to close-up shots – of flowers coming into bloom, for example – but zoom lenses are available separately, so such a project isn’t beyond the Brinno TLC 2020 entirely. We tested the camera with its standard-fit lens, but also with an IP67-rated waterproof case that comes as part of a kit of accessories. The case thoughtfully includes a compartment for silica gel, to help combat condensation during underwater use.
Despite there being a lot to like, the Brinno isn’t quite the perfect timelapse camera. In our testing we found the LCD screen to be quite dark, and it doesn't show a preview while shooting. We also found the camera’s automatic white balance is better than the presets on offer. And, while the waterproof housing works well, it doesn’t allow for the camera to be powered externally, so you’ll be limited by battery life when recording underwater. That said, a fresh pair of AA batteries can last up to 99 days, depending on shooting frequency; timelapses spanning days, weeks or even months are possible.
Overall though, this is a high-scoring timelapse camera that gets a lot right, is small and light, easy to use, and produces good results.
- Read our in-depth Brinno TLC 2020 review
The best timelapse camera for professionals
Enlaps Tikee 4 sample video
This rather strange-looking camera can capture up to 6K timelapse videos, with its dual lens setup offering a 220-degree view. Photos are then combined into a video after you upload the image files to the myTikee website. What’s more, if the Tikee 4 is connected to a Wi-Fi or LTE network you can control the camera, access images, and process timelapse videos remotely.
This is one of the simplest timelapse cameras I've used, both in terms of capture and processing. The camera is point-and-shoot, so the most involved part of the capture process is setting up the project interval – and actually this is incredibly easy. Without Wi-Fi or LTE, you can connect to the camera using the Tikee Remote app over Bluetooth, although functionality is reduced compared to the other connection methods.
The only real downside is the cost: the Tikee 4 costs $2,215 in the US for the camera only; for UK and Australian buyers the Tikee 4 is priced in euros at €1,590, which converts to around £1,400 / AU$2,800 at the time of writing. The Tikee 4 Pack, which is a comprehensive kit including a hard case, mounting adaptors, a microSD card and other accessories, costs $3,169 or €2,298, which is around £2,000 / AU$4,000. You’ll also need a myTikee subscription to take full advantage of the myTikee website, and the most useful option for most people costs $96 / €104 plus VAT per month.
- Read our in-depth Enlaps Tikee 4 review
The best timelapse camera for simplicity
Brinno TLC 300 sample video
If you're looking for a timelapse camera that's easy to use, this is the one for you. During our testing we loved how simple the Brinno TLC 300 is to operate, along with its tilting lens and long battery life.
Instead of packing it full of features, Brinno has stuck with a 'less is more' approach for the 300, ensuring the camera captures good quality timelapses over long or short periods and in all weather conditions, thanks to the waterproof housing included in the BCC300-C kit tested for our review and priced at around $300.
This camera is powered by four AA batteries that are claimed to last for up to 100 days when shooting an image every five minutes. This means lengthy timelapse projects documenting how your garden changes through the seasons, or of the building of an extension, are certainly possible with this camera. Zoom lenses are available to buy separately, but cannot be used with the waterproof case.
This model is slightly larger and heavier than the Brinno TLC 2020 mentioned earlier, but still relatively compact. There's also a convenient tripod screw for attaching via clamps or suction cups to just about anything.
We found the 1.44-inch LCD screen quite small but bright and easy to view in sunlight, with the exposure shown on-screen true to what the timelapse will actually look like. White balance cannot be adjusted, but there are three shooting modes available, called Day, Twilight and Night.
Our only gripes with the TLC 300 are its lack of 4K resolution, and there being no remote control via smartphone, web or a dedicated controller. If those features are crucial to you, then you'll need to look elsewhere.
- Read our in-depth Brinno TLC 300 timelapse camera review
The best budget timelapse camera
Atli Eon sample video
The sub-$200 Alti Eon is our pick for those who want a timelapse camera on a budget. We like how easy it is to use, how you get a live preview of what’s being recorded through the smartphone app, and how this is a timelapse camera that can be powered externally for longer projects.
Simplicity is the name of the game here, with nothing more than a power button and a manual focus ring on the camera itself. The rest of the controls are handled via the aTLi Cam smartphone application, which talks to the camera via its Wi-Fi connection.
Small and lightweight, the Eon weighs just 125g with its battery installed, and measures just 54 x 70 x 50mm. The camera comes with a silicone lens hood for waterproofing and a UV filter, plus a mini tripod, a USB cable and a 16GB microSD – in other words, everything you need to start shooting your first timelapse videos.
Although simple, there are some useful features baked in. You can set the camera to only record at certain times of day – to capture a house building project during daylight hours while skipping nighttime, for example – while claimed battery life is up to five days. For longer shoots you can hook up external power via the camera’s USB-C port.
We found image quality isn’t as good as some smartphones, but that’s the compromise when paying a relatively small amount of money for a compact device like this. That said, there are options to manually adjust white balance, ISO and shutter speed.
- Read our in-depth Atli Eon review
The best action camera with timelapse function
GoPro Hero 13 Black sample video
It’s not a purpose-built timelapse camera, but we think the GoPro Hero 13 Black is a great choice if you want something compact and rugged that can also shoot sharp, stable video. In our tests, we found its touchscreen interface simple to operate. Settings are easy to access in the dedicated Time Lapse mode, with intervals ranging from half a second to an hour. Sequences can be recorded at up to 5.3K resolution, which is among the highest in this list.
Presets make it straightforward to capture creative timelapses. Night Lapse is designed for shooting after dark, complemented by three self-explanatory modes for specific scenarios: Star Trail, Light Painting and Vehicle Lights – all of which worked effectively in testing. We were also impressed by Time Warp, which applies HyperSmooth stabilization to timelapses shot while moving.
New Lens Mods make the Hero 13 Black even more appealing, although they are costly extras. The ultra wide lens mod in particular expands the field of view and is ideal for working in tight spaces.
With the Enduro battery shipped as standard, battery life is decent and better than the Hero 12 Black's, if not outstanding. For longer timelapses, the option to power the GoPro externally is a welcome one, with the new magnetic and waterproof 'Contacto' charging connector an excellent accessory. Add the Hero 13 Black’s 8:7 aspect ratio sensor, which makes it easier to export high-resolution timelapse footage for different platforms, and we think it’s comfortably the best action camera for recording timelapse content.
- Read our in-depth GoPro Hero 13 Black review
The best timelapse camera for construction projects
Brinno BCC5000 sample video
Designed to let you capture the progress of long-term outdoor projects, the Brinno BCC5000 is a robust, easy-to-use timelapse kit. The bundle combines the TLC5000 4K camera with a weatherproof housing and a versatile mounting clamp. Based on our field tests, it’s an effective all-weather system.
In testing, the camera earned high marks for its ease of use. It’s essentially a point-and-shoot device: the cuboid camera unit has just two buttons on the front – one to change the interval setting, the other to start or stop the recording.
We found image quality impressive for a timelapse camera. The 1/1.8-inch Sony STARVIS 2 sensor produces relatively clean footage with good detail. Low-light video in particular proved clearer than expected, even if not as sharp as you’d get from a 4K mirrorless camera. Results can look both too sharp and oversaturated, which led us to adjust the settings manually. Even so, footage is plenty good enough for long-term recording.
Battery life impressed in testing, too. The durable housing does increase the dimensions quite significantly, but the pay-off is space for three batteries (two are included). As a result, total battery life is rated at up to 200 days when shooting at five-minute intervals.
The only major snag we encountered in our tests was with connectivity. Wi-Fi access unlocks remote control and monitoring, but it requires the network to be available at the camera’s location. Bluetooth should be the easiest way for most people to control the camera wirelessly, but we found functionality basic and connectivity unreliable. It doesn’t help that camera control is handled via a browser. Smartphone apps are in the works, which could resolve some of these issues.
There are more affordable timelapse cameras on the market, including a number from Brinno. But if you want a durable, versatile yet easy tool for shooting long-form timelapse videos in all weathers, the BCC5000 has a lot to offer.
- Read our in-depth Brinno BCC5000 review
Also consider
We've reviewed a range of timelapse cameras, which means there are more options that almost made it into this list. Here are a few honorable mentions to consider.
Best compact professional - Enlaps Tikee mini+: If the Tikee 4 is a little too unwieldy for your needs, its little brother – which features one lens rather than two and a 4K resolution rather than a 6K one – might be just the ticket. It remains a fairly expensive option, but its simple, compact design and extreme user-friendliness make it a great pick.
Best GoPro alternative - DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro: Like the GoPro Hero 13 Black, this is a capable action camera with a dedicated timelapse mode. From our review, it stands out in a few ways: it performs better than the Hero 13 Black in low lighting, features brighter twin OLED screens, plus its battery life is even longer. The timelapse setting allows you to adjust shooting intervals, although we found the maximum interval of 40s more restrictive. Crucially, it can also be bought for less than the GoPro.
How to choose a timelapse camera
How to choose the best timelapse camera for you
The biggest question to ask yourself is, do you want a dedicated timelapse camera, or a camera that also has a good timelapse function? If it's the latter then you will be best served by an action camera like the GoPro Hero 11 Black or DJI Osmo Action 3.
If, however, you want a dedicated timelapse camera, then your primary concern should be that of cost versus quality. If you want professional results and don't mind spending whatever it takes, then the Enlaps Tikee 3 Pro+ is a fantastic option, with 6K resolution, remote access, AI capabilities and even a solar panel for constant power.
But not everyone has circa-€2,000 to spend on a timelapse camera. If that includes you, then we recommend Brinno and either the BCC300 in which simplicity is key, or the TLC 2020 if you want a bit more flexibility. Both of these are easy to use, with a long battery life and compact form factor.
Which key features should you look out for?
As with all cameras, the sensor resolution and lens field-of-view are important aspects to consider before making a purchase. With timelapse cameras, key features to look out for include battery length, power options like the ability to attach an external battery or solar panel, and which shooting modes are available.
Along with shooting modes, look out for what options can be tinkered with to get the results you want.
Standard features of timelapse cameras include the option for picking your own project length (how long the camera records for) and the interval time between each image captured. Projects with shorter intervals use up the battery more quickly than those taking images more slowly.
Some models let you adjust the white balance, ISO, shutter speed and other variables, but not all.
Lastly, look out for weatherproofing options if you intend to record for long periods outside, and check if plugging a power cable in reduces the camera's water resistance.
Can I use a GoPro?
Yes, you can. GoPros – and other action cameras, such as the DJI Osmo Action 6 or Insta360 Ace Pro 2 – come with timelapse functions. Many offer different modes, including the ability to create timelapse footage of stars streaking across the night sky, or vehicle lights painting neon lights along a twisting road.
No action cameras can match the results of a dedicated timelapse camera, but they can be more cost-effective if you want a small, portable camera able to do a bit of everything.
Can timelapse cameras be powered by an external battery?
Some can, but not all. The two Brinno timelapse cameras featured in this guide run on AA batteries. This may seem rather quaint in today's world of lithium-ion battery packs, but with no power-hogging components like Wi-Fi antennas and large, touchscreen displays, AAs are all some timelapse cameras need.
Others, like the Atli Eon, can be connected to external power while professional options like the Enlaps Tikee 3 Pro+ / Tikee 4 have an integrated solar panel for keeping the integrated battery topped up during extended recording sessions.