Editor's Summary

The Hawkeye Thumb is a miniature camera designed for FPV drone recording, offering a unique combination of ultra-low weight, affordability, and decent functionality. While it has its drawbacks, it's an excellent choice for beginner pilots who want to start recording HD video at minimal cost.

Hawkeye Thumb Review

Welcome to our review of the action camera, Hawkeye Thumb. This is not your average action camera, but a specialized one. The name 'Thumb' hints at its unique purpose - a camera for FPV drone recording. However, this doesn't exclude its use for other purposes.

Key Features

Low Price - The main advantage of the Hawkeye Thumb is its affordability. I purchased it for a mere 4,500 rubles in the spring of 2025. Most action cameras in the market are more expensive. Compared to high-end options from GoPro or DJI, this camera offers a quality aero-shooting experience at a fraction of the cost, making it an ideal choice for beginner pilots who don't want to risk expensive equipment in case of an accident.

Good Video Quality - For its price and size, the camera delivers decent video quality. It can record 4K video, providing a detailed image. The Sony sensor ensures good color reproduction and light sensitivity in well-lit conditions. However, there's a catch, which we'll discuss later.

Lightweight and Compact - Weighing around 15.5 grams, the Hawkeye Thumb has minimal impact on the flight characteristics of even the smallest and lightest drones. Its miniature size allows for easy installation in areas where a full-size action camera wouldn't fit.

Pros:

- Extremely lightweight- Affordable- Good video quality- Compact design- Gyro stabilization- No soldering required

Cons:

- No photo mode- Unreliable- Difficult to use- Requires waiting for delivery from China- No built-in screen or wireless interfaces

Expert Opinion

The Hawkeye Thumb is a camera that offers a unique combination of ultra-low weight, affordability, and decent functionality, including 4K@50fps recording and gyro data. It's an excellent choice for pilots who want to start recording HD video at minimal cost, but are willing to compromise on its drawbacks. However, potential buyers should be prepared for potential reliability issues and some inconvenience in use.

FAQ

Q: What is the Hawkeye Thumb camera used for?A: The Hawkeye Thumb is primarily designed for FPV drone recording, but it can also be used for other purposes.

Q: How does the camera's gyro stabilization work?A: The camera's gyro stabilization uses data from the built-in gyroscope to provide smooth and cinematic footage, similar to electronic or mechanical image stabilization.

Q: Can I use the camera without soldering?A: Yes, the camera comes with a cable that allows you to power it from the drone's battery balance connector, eliminating the need for soldering.

Q: Is the camera suitable for beginners?A: Yes, the Hawkeye Thumb is an excellent choice for beginner pilots who want to start recording HD video without breaking the bank.

Q: What are the camera's video recording capabilities?A: The camera can record 4K video at 50fps, but gyro stabilization is only available at 4K@30fps.

Q: Can I return or exchange the camera if I'm not satisfied?A: Due to the camera's international shipping from China, returns and exchanges may be complicated and time-consuming.

Metadata

Meta Title: Hawkeye Thumb Review - Miniature Camera for Drones and Beyond

Meta Description: Discover the Hawkeye Thumb, a miniature camera for drones and beyond, offering ultra-low weight, affordability, and decent functionality.

Slug: hawkeye-thumb-review

Featured FAQ

What is the Hawkeye Thumb camera used for?The Hawkeye Thumb is primarily designed for FPV drone recording, but it can also be used for other purposes.

How does the camera's gyro stabilization work?The camera's gyro stabilization uses data from the built-in gyroscope to provide smooth and cinematic footage, similar to electronic or mechanical image stabilization.

Can I use the camera without soldering?Yes, the camera comes with a cable that allows you to power it from the drone's battery balance connector, eliminating the need for soldering.

Is the camera suitable for beginners?Yes, the Hawkeye Thumb is an excellent choice for beginner pilots who want to start recording HD video without breaking the bank.

What are the camera's video recording capabilities?The camera can record 4K video at 50fps, but gyro stabilization is only available at 4K@30fps.

Can I return or exchange the camera if I'm not satisfied?Due to the camera's international shipping from China, returns and exchanges may be complicated and time-consuming.