What Is The Best Motorsport Camera?

If you’re serious about motorsport, capturing high-quality video data on the track can be essential for analysing and improving performance. However, using traditional action cameras will only provide you with race footage, without valuable performance data.

In this article, we have compiled 4 of the best motorsport cameras based on factors like customer ratings, quality of footage, integration with data logging software, which motorsport application each camera is best suited to and more. Let’s take a look at which motorsport onboard camera best suits your motorsport needs to improve your performance on the track. 

How We Tested Which Motorsport Camera Is The Best

To determine what the best motorsport camera is on the market, we considered the following factors:

• • User reviews & ratings: We included top-rated cameras for motorsport data logging from sources like external forums and Aim customer reviews. The SmartyCam 3 Series was consistently the overall favourite across multiple platforms, reflecting their reliability and performance.
  • Quality of footage: As the standard frame rate for an onboard action camera is 24 fps, we included a range of cameras that excelled in video quality at 30 and 60 fps at 1920 x 1080 pixels. 
  • Software integration: Compatibility with data logging software was a key focal point for performance analysis. Our entire motorsport video camera range is compatible with Race Studio 3 software to allow users to seamlessly synchronise video with telemetry data.
  • Price range: We included a range of the best data logging motorsport onboard cameras in the industry, ranging from more affordable entry-level cameras to advanced camera systems for professional setups.
  • Best use case: Much like the previous point, we included a variety of cameras that cater to various motorsport vehicles, including race cars, motorbikes, go-karts and more.

The Best Motorsport Camera: SmartyCam 3 Series

If you’re looking for the best motorsport onboard camera, then look no further than the SmartyCam 3 series. Available in 4 varieties (SmartyCam 3 Sport, SmartyCam 3 Corsa, SmartyCam 3 GP and SmartyCam 3 Dual), each camera is built with motorsport applications in mind, offering varying levels of quality, connectivity and versatility. Let’s look at what each of these cameras brings to the table and how they might fit your specific motorsport needs.

1. SmartyCam 3 Sport

The SmartyCam 3 Sport is the entry-level option in the range, but it still packs a punch for those looking to record their sessions with high-quality video. Please note: The SmartyCam 3 Sport must be powered and connected to other Aim devices like the Solo 2 DL, MXM or an MX Series Data Logger to receive all CAN information. 

Key Features:

• • Mounting system: Compatible with a range of suction mounts, roll cage mounts, bolt mounts and clamp mounts.
  • Resolution: 1920 x 1080 pixels at 30 fps.
  • Power: Requires an external power source.
  • Price: The most affordable motorsport camera in the range.
  • Best use case: Due to its lightweight design, this motorsport camera is ideal for applications with weight limitations, such as go-karting. It has a strong and sturdy build and is capable of withstanding rough track conditions, making it perfect for beginners who are just getting into data-driven motorsport racing.

2. SmartyCam 3 Corsa

The SmartyCam 3 Corsa is the first camera in the range that can operate as a standalone system. It can connect directly to a vehicle’s ECU, allowing it to act as an external data logger without requiring additional devices. 

Key Features:

• • Mounting system: Compatible with a range of suction mounts, roll cage mounts, bolt mounts and clamp mounts.
  • Resolution: 1920 x 1080 pixels at 60 fps.
  • Standalone functionality: Comes with unterminated CAN connections, allowing it to function as a standalone camera, regardless of your vehicle or equipment setup.
  • Price: Mid-range, making it more affordable for racers who require advanced data logging.
  • Best use case: Closed-wheel vehicles like sports cars will benefit from the SmartyCam 3 Corsa’s ability to work seamlessly with ECU data. This feature is ideal for capturing vehicle performance data, such as engine metrics, directly over high-quality video footage.

3. SmartyCam 3 GP

The SmartyCam 3 GP comes with a bullet camera design where only a small and durable lens is exposed, making it ideal for open-wheel vehicles or motorbikes. It also supports video streaming capabilities, making it possible to stream footage directly to the pit area.

Key Features:

• • Mounting system: Compatible with a range of suction mounts, roll cage mounts, bolt mounts and clamp mounts.
  • Resolution: 1920 x 1080 pixels at 60 fps.
  • Lens options: 67°, 84° or 120° field of view options.
  • Price: Although it is one of the more expensive motorsport cameras in the range, it offers much more advanced video recording capabilities for open-wheel racing.
  • Best use case: For open-wheel vehicles or motorbike racers, the SmartyCam 3 GP offers the perfect combination of versatility and high-quality video. Its lightweight and aerodynamic design makes it a top choice for vehicles that are exposed to the elements, ensuring minimal interference from wind and vibration.

4. SmartyCam 3 Dual

The SmartyCam 3 Dual is designed for advanced racers and motorsport teams that want to get the most out of their performance on the track. It comes with two bullet cameras to capture multiple viewpoints simultaneously, making it especially useful for those looking to analyse performance in close racing situations or to monitor vehicle response in real time.

Key Features:

• • Mounting system: Compatible with a range of suction mounts, roll cage mounts, bolt mounts and clamp mounts.
  • Resolution: 1920 x 1080 pixels at 60 fps.
  • Dual camera functionality: 2 bullet cameras, allowing front and rear or driver and pedal viewpoints.
  • Lens options: 67°, 84° or 120° field of view options.
  • High storage capacity: Supports up to 2TB of storage on a separate micro SD card, making it ideal for endurance racing.
  • Streaming capabilities: It supports video streaming capabilities, making it possible to stream footage directly to the pit area.
  • Price: Although it is one of the more expensive motorsport cameras in the range, it offers much more advanced video recording capabilities.
  • Best use case: The SmartyCam 3 Dual is perfect for competitive drivers who require maximum data and visibility. Its dual camera functionality is especially valuable for endurance racing, where extended recording capacity is crucial, and detailed analysis of driver inputs can make a huge difference.

Why Choose A SmartyCam Over Traditional Action Cameras?

While action cameras are great for capturing highlights, the SmartyCam 3 Series are purpose-built for motorsport data analysis. Unlike traditional action cameras, the SmartyCam Series captures video with essential telemetry overlays, including lap timing, speed, RPM, throttle and brake data, depending on your setup. This data provides motorsport racers with the information they need to enhance their track day performance.

Choosing The Right SmartyCam For Your Needs

The SmartyCam 3 series cameras don’t just record video; they offer a full suite of data overlays that help you understand and improve your on-track performance. Whether you’re looking for your best lap or comparing laps, these motorsport cameras are an invaluable asset for continuous improvement.

Ultimately, your level of experience, vehicle type and goals on the track will be the key factors that determine which motorsport onboard camera is best for your needs:

• • For beginners & karting enthusiasts: The SmartyCam 3 Sport provides robust video quality and durability, especially suited for beginners or those looking to capture karting footage.
  • For closed-wheel racing: The SmartyCam 3 Corsa stands out with its standalone capabilities, perfect for those seeking in-depth performance data without additional devices.
  • For open-wheel or motorcycle racing: The SmartyCam 3 GP provides high-resolution footage on a compact bullet camera, along with live streaming capabilities, making it ideal for professional motorsport teams.
  • For advanced motorsport racers & teams: The SmartyCam 3 Dual delivers advanced insights with dual-camera functionality, ideal for monitoring driver input and race craft analysis.

Enhance Performance With The Best Motorsport Camera

The SmartyCam 3 series offers motorsports enthusiasts with a range of high-performance cameras to suit various applications, from entry-level track days to high-pressure racing. 

Regardless of which model you choose, each of our motorsport cameras offers high-quality footage, robust construction and data overlays that turn track day video into a data logging tool for motorsport improvement. 

Whether you’re looking to capture your track days or take your racing skills to the next level, there’s a SmartyCam 3 camera to meet your needs – shop the SmartyCam range today to order yours.