When it comes to protecting your camera from water damage while capturing stunning aquatic or beach photos, camera float straps have become an essential accessory for many photographers. Two popular products in this category are the ProFloat Waterproof Camera Strap and the CamKix Waterproof Floating Camera Hand Grip Strap. In this comparison, we'll delve into the features, benefits, and differences between these two products to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Construction
The ProFloat Waterproof Camera Strap is designed with a simple yet effective approach. It features a lightweight, foam-filled strap that provides excellent buoyancy in water, keeping your camera afloat if accidentally dropped. The strap itself is made of durable nylon material, ensuring it can withstand harsh marine environments. On the other hand, the CamKix Waterproof Floating Camera Hand Grip Strap boasts a more ergonomic design, featuring a contoured grip that fits comfortably in your hand. This product also includes a foam flotation device that provides additional buoyancy.
Floatation Capabilities
Both products are designed to keep your camera afloat, but they differ slightly in their approach. The ProFloat Waterproof Camera Strap relies on its foam-filled strap to provide buoyancy, which is sufficient for most compact cameras and small mirrorless models. In contrast, the CamKix Waterproof Floating Camera Hand Grip Strap features a more substantial flotation device that can support heavier cameras, including larger DSLRs.
Attachment Options
The ProFloat Waterproof Camera Strap features a standard 1/4"-20 tripod socket attachment, making it compatible with most cameras on the market. The CamKix Waterproof Floating Camera Hand Grip Strap also includes this attachment option but adds an additional wrist strap for added security. This wrist strap can be adjusted to fit various wrist sizes, providing extra peace of mind when shooting in wet conditions.
Durability and Build Quality
Both products are built with durability in mind, but the CamKix Waterproof Floating Camera Hand Grip Strap seems to have a slight edge in terms of build quality. The materials used feel more premium, and the overall construction appears more robust. The ProFloat Waterproof Camera Strap is still well-made, but some users may find the nylon material slightly less durable than the CamKix product.
Price and Value
The ProFloat Waterproof Camera Strap is generally priced lower than the CamKix Waterproof Floating Camera Hand Grip Strap, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious photographers. However, when considering the additional features and better build quality of the CamKix product, the slightly higher price may be justified for those seeking a more comprehensive solution.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both the ProFloat Waterproof Camera Strap and the CamKix Waterproof Floating Camera Hand Grip Strap are excellent examples of camera float straps designed to protect your equipment in wet environments. While the ProFloat product offers a simple, effective design at an affordable price, the CamKix product provides a more feature-rich experience with its ergonomic grip, additional flotation device, and adjustable wrist strap. Ultimately, the choice between these two products will depend on your specific needs and preferences as a photographer. If you prioritize a lightweight, easy-to-use solution for compact cameras, the ProFloat Waterproof Camera Strap may be the better option. However, if you require a more robust product with added features and better build quality for larger cameras, the CamKix Waterproof Floating Camera Hand Grip Strap is worth considering.
