New VR Camera: the SLAM 8K VR180 3D Camera
There's a new VR camera by Chinese company SLAM, and we have all the details available. It’s an affordable VR180 camera with an impressive 8K resolution. Let’s take a closer look.
Latest Info:
As of January 2025, the device is known as the SLAM XCAM 8K VR180 3D Camera. We'll publish a full review very soon.
You can fund this camera at the SLAM Kickstarter. The rewards range from the Super Early Bird XCAM Basic (8GB RAM + 128GB storage) for $999, up to the XCAM Plus+ (24GB RAM + 512G storage) for $1,599.
The RRP for the XCAM basic is $1,399 so that's a $400 discount. You'll receive:
- SLAM VR180 3D XCAM Basic (8GB RAM + 128GB Storage)
- Lens Protector x1
- Type-C Cable x1
There are optional add-ons such as a 8K USB-C to HDMI cable for $24 and a 10000mAH power bank for $30.
Price
According to the SLAM team, the RRP is $1,399 for the basic model. Various upgrades are available, including extra RAM and storage, plus optional extras.
SLAM VR180 Specs
Let’s get straight to the important stuff: the specs. As you’ll see below, it’s capable of 8K 30FPS (or 6K 50FPS) video, similar to the popular CALFVR camera.
It uses Android and incorporates a touchscreen interface that allows you to work with the built-in recording software. It also has a decent-sized 5000mAh battery that is fast-charging and allows for continuous recording when plugged in. Another key feature is that it is capable of live streaming - something that is becoming increasingly popular as VR becomes more mainstream.
The interpupillary distance (IPD) is 65mm, which is a good choice for most people in delivering accurate scaling and avoiding the dreaded giant/dwarf effect.
Full available specs:
- 3D videos at 8K 30FPS or 6K 50FPS
- 10-bit color
- Dual 1/1.55-inch CMOS
- Snapdragon Qualcomm 8Gen2
- Efficient H265 compression
- Touchscreen: AMOLED screen: 2K, 6.67-inch, 120hz
- Uses Android 13 with built-in professional recording software
- 5000mAh battery with 35W fast-charging
- Advanced Liquid Cooling
- 65mm IPD
Other features:
There are some other interesting features:
Mic level
The touchscreen interface has a visible mic level that shows the user when the environmental audio is too loud or too quiet. This is a useful tool which isn’t commonly found on similarly priced VR cameras.
Level tool
The screen has an unintrusive balance graphic to help users make sure the footage they are recording is level. Again, this is a great little tool, often found on high-end 2D cameras but not as common with VR kit.
HDR on/off button
Easily accessible button to switch HDR on or off instantly.
Open for more applications
It appears the VR camera interface can be altered and changed in multiple ways as we’re told other applications can be added to the touchscreen image, relating to editing or sharing content. This suggests it will be possible to do basic editing on the camera itself, plus opens it up to easier live streaming than most existing VR cameras.
Adjust white balance and ISO from touchscreen
Both white balance and ISO can be adjusted, or switched to/from auto via the SLAM touchscreen, while recording.
Developer mode
Users can apply for developer permissions to access some more powerful functions.
Sample footage (Nov 2024)
SLAM creator Hao Wang has provided this 6K footage of Shanghai at night, filmed using the SLAM VR180 camera:
The night view of Shanghai is beautiful and vibrant | DeoVR
Conclusion
The SLAM 8K VR180 camera looks to be based on the Android model, making it similar in size to a modern smartphone. Keep checking back for the latest updates.
Join the discussion at the DeoVR forum, Facebook and Reddit.
