Which 360 Camera Do I Need?
Wondering which camera to buy for use with zInspector’s 360 feature?
Look no further. We’ve put together a product comparison for you to easily see the pros and cons of the best panoramic cameras on the market. We do our best to update this page as camera firmware support and mobile device operating systems make camera models unreliable, obsolete, or inoperable with zInspector software.
Theta V is used most often. Newer camera versions including Ricoh SC2 and Z1 are also supported.
The Cameras
The three cameras discussed in this article all come from Ricoh. They are all compatible with zInspector and can work perfectly well with the z360 feature. Take a closer look to see the differences and decide which camera will work best for you.
Option 1: Ricoh Theta SC (No longer recommended)
Important: SC model is no longer recommended due to poor reliability. SC2 model is a great choice (at <$300).
The Theta SC camera is the most affordable of the three camera options (at $179). Lightweight, easily portable, and perfect for traveling and on-the-go inspections, it also has the widest range of color options—sand, blue, white and coral.
A photo example of Theta SC image quality (zoomed out, lit room).
A photo example of Theta SC image quality (zoomed in, unlit room).
Option 2: Ricoh Theta S (No longer recommended)
Important: S model is no longer recommended due to poor reliability. SC2 model is a great choice (at <$300).
The Theta S is the mid-range option in terms of price ($296) and can take higher quality photos than the Theta SC. Slightly heavier than the SC, but also slightly faster in terms of WiFi speed, the S series includes a new LED screen which allows the user to see different camera modes.
A photo example of Theta S image quality (zoomed out, lit room), which is noticeably higher than the comparable SC photo.
A photo example of Theta S image quality (zoomed in, unlit room), with improved lighting quality compared to the SC photo.
Option 3: Ricoh Theta V
It’s easy to see why the Theta V is a more expensive option (at $396). Tech advances over the Theta S include increased battery life and expanded storage (19 GB). Boasting the highest quality camera of the three, the Theta V also includes a faster shutter speed and superior data transfer.
A photo example of Theta V image quality (zoomed out, lit room), which is superior in color and lighting to both SC and S images.
A photo example of Theta V image quality (zoomed in, unlit room), which is superior in lighting and color to the SC and S images.
Note: The Theta Z1 is a super-premium option that is much more expensive and requires longer loading times for the larger files sizes it generates. Not necessary for most property management businesses
Zoom Comparison
The closest zoom in darkened rooms: Theta SC (top), Theta S (middle), Theta V (bottom).
Here we provide an example PDF Inspection Report from zInspector: 360 Comparison Inspection. Choose the ‘360 Viewer’ link accompanying the 360 images to further explore the quality of the three cameras.
Conclusion
Though the Theta V is the pricier option, it is clearly the best of the compatible Ricoh cameras. Its quality, storage memory, and battery are all superior to the others. In addition, the streaming and sharing capabilities are significant for quick data transfer, which is especially handy when working with other owners, tenants or inspectors. zInspector’s 360 feature works at its best with the Theta V, and it is easy to see its benefits when exploring the 360 viewer on the website. However, if you’re looking for a 360 option that won’t break the bank, the Theta SC2 option is a great choice. The Z1 is likely overkill in terms of price and impact on file loading times that may interrupt your flow, but it certainly does generate a superb quality photo (not necessary for most property management applications).
Buy Your 360 Camera Now!
Ricoh Theta V (recommended)
Ricoh Theta SC2 (good option)
And don’t forget to grab a tripod!