Here I am testing Runcam’s latest camera – the Phoenix 2. Well it’s been out a while now but I only got around to play with it. I will show you the image quality and how it compares to the previous version.
New to FPV? Learn about the basics of FPV camera here.
Where to Buy?
- Banggood: https://oscarliang.com/product-eqpl
- GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-odfp
- RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-tdzv
- Amazon: https://amzn.to/3phzt2F
The Phoenix V2 looks almost identical to the V1: same color and shape.
Left: Phoenix V1; Right: Phoenix V2
But the lens is different.
Left: Phoenix V1; Right: Phoenix V2
Closer Look at the Runcam Phoenix 2
The Runcam Phoenix 2 is truly an upgrade from the V1 in terms of specs, and it’s also $6 cheaper.
First of all, the Phoenix V2 is using a larger image sensor (1/2″ vs 1/3″ of the V1), minimum illumination is [email protected] which is lower than the previous version’s 0.01Lux, that should in theory perform better in low light.
It’s also using a wider FOV lens (2.1mm vs 2.5mm).
4:3 and 16:9 aspect ratios are selectable in the menu, and it can switch between NTSC and PAL too.
Input voltage is 5V – 36V, power consumption is lower compared to previous version, used to be 220mA at 5V, now only 200mA at 5V.
There’s also a nano size version. Image quality is ever so slightly lower due to the smaller lens, but if weight is important to you it’s a good option. I tested its image quality in this post.
Get the Phoenix 2 Nano here:
- Banggood: https://oscarliang.com/product-2g3c
- GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-286u
- RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-4uhp
- Amazon: https://amzn.to/2R04kUu
Phoenix 2 Image Quality
Image quality of the Phoenix 2 looks decent, the only thing that bugs me is the white balance. Tint is a bit too low in my opinion hence results in a slightly too green image. Not the end of the world, you can fix that in the settings.
Here’s a comparison video between the few other latest FPV cameras from Runcam: Eagle 3 and Racer 5, as well as the Phoenix 1 Oscar Edition.
Screenshots of the test:
3 comments
For some reason my phoenix 2 (jb edition) gives a blury vision when flying over grass for example. Totally not as in this review Also video quality is verry poor. The lens is in focus, but for some reason its under performing.
Based on the image stills it appears the Phoenix 1 has the best image resolution out of any of them. You can see the 2 story house detail noticeably better in all examples.
Oscar, what is your recommendation for those flying analog in low light? The nite eagle or nite owl would have been my go-to.
Phoenix 2 is my go-to camera (have three of them now)- great image and a reasonable price. I was out flying during twilight the other day and I was amazed by how well I could see using this camera!