When the UK national pilot of police-worn cameras took place in 2007, Head Cameras were the main contenders. Since then, Reveal Media has seen a rise in the switch to Body Cameras. This article will look at the benefits of each type of camera and why Body Cameras are on the rise.
Reveal Media has long been a trusted supplier of Body Worn Camera solutions. Police-worn cameras are proven to deter aggression and increase worker safety. So why are certain cameras more popular and does that mean they are better?
Design
Let’s first look at Headcams. Units are lightweight and fitted to the shape of an ear; the ergonomic design should be perfect. However, while some users find the design comfortable, others have reported that Headcams put strain on their ears. They also present hygiene issues when being used by multiple wearers. Many attach the cameras to their helmets to avoid this problem.
Despite this solution, many officers who have used Headcams prefer Bodycams, which sit on the chest. Perhaps this is because Bodycams are sturdily designed. They have hard-wearing cases that easily survive a little rough and tumble. The placement on the chest means the camera can be tough without putting much strain on the wearer.
Position
Headcams are lightweight and follow the movement of the head; they see what the wearer sees. So how do Bodycams fair? They are mounted on the chest, so could miss an incident if the wearer is not facing in the right direction. However, the majority have wider camera angles than Headcams. They also have articulated heads that can be pre-adjusted according to the wearer’s height.
A Police Officer wears a Bodycam on his Chest
People have reported Bodycams are better placed for recording in cars. Headcams can become redundant when recording in squad cars. When they attach to helmets they cannot record out of the wind screen.
Ease of Use
Both Bodycam and Headcam manufacturers try to make their equipment as easy to use as possible. One-button record features and automatic upload software are some features that have been developed to make police-worn cameras easy to use and manage.
Wearing electrical equipment can often mean trailing wires. Headcams tend to have wires connecting to battery packs, which can be a danger to the wearer. Officers have reported they turn to Bodycams with no trailing cables because they are easier and safer to wear.
It seems that Bodycams win the battle of police-worn cameras. Wearers have reported that they are more comfortable to wear and don’t get obstructed when worn in cars. They are also sturdier and easier to wear than Headcams.