Got the need for speed? This camera can shoot 1080p video at an incredible 5,148fps!
Meet the new Chronos Q12: a high-speed camera that manages to be compact, light, and (relatively) well priced
Capturing ultra-slow-motion video can provide an engaging perspective or allow for a deeper understanding of processes that are typically invisible to the naked eye. Most cameras offer slow-motion options, some reaching around 1000 frames per second (fps), but these are insufficient for truly rapid events. This is where high-speed cameras truly shine.
Some are industrial-grade, while others are more accessible for consumers. The Chronos Q12 camera from Kron Technologies falls into the latter category, offering impressive capabilities at a relatively affordable price.
Weighing just 1.32 kg and measuring 188mm x 111mm x 53mm, the Q12 camera is exceptionally compact and lightweight. Designed for professionals in research, engineering, science, and industry, it also appeals to creatives looking to record captivating slow-motion footage. Its maximum resolution of 2560 x 2016 allows for a frame rate of 2,313fps, more than double the maximum of most consumer cameras.
However, the Q12's true prowess becomes evident when the resolution is lowered. When set to 2560 x 1440, it can capture at 3,116fps, and in 1080p, it reaches an astounding 5,148fps. For those seeking the ultimate experience, a resolution of just 128 x 32 allows a maximum frame rate of 29,515fps. Despite these incredible speeds, the camera remains roughly the size of a typical Sony or Canon mirrorless body.
The Q12 features an APS-C image sensor that captures full color, unlike some very high-speed cameras that can only record in black and white. Two versions are available, distinguished by their internal memory buffer size. The 64GB model can record 5.7 seconds of video in one burst, while the 128GB Q12 can capture 11.5-second clips.
While this may seem limited, consider that the fleeting moments you'd want to capture with this camera - like a bullet shattering glass - occur in fractions of a second, rendering the 5 or 10 full seconds of memory sufficient.
Once the internal memory is full, video can be stored on the Q12's built-in 1TB NVMe SSD or on a removable SD card. Additionally, an external 1TB SSD can be attached to supplement the internal storage. Video can be saved in Raw or compressed H.264/H.265 formats, with color modes selectable at 8-bit, 10-bit, or 12-bit. Control is facilitated through a 5-inch, 800 x 480 touchscreen display that doubles as a field monitor, eliminating the need for a separate monitoring device.
The Chronos Q12 supports a variety of lenses, including C-mount, E-mount, F-mount, EF-mount, PL-Mount, and MFT-mount, via an interchangeable lens mount. Priced at $19,995 for the 64GB model and $21,995 for the 128GB version, it may seem pricey compared to conventional APS-C mirrorless cameras. However, considering the high prices of other high-speed cameras, Kron Technologies' pricing is quite reasonable.
Written by urgent.news from Digital Camera World's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
