The search for a comfortable and safe way to transport one's camera during longer photo tours or hikes has always occupied photographers. With the Beetle Camera Clip V2, manufacturer PGYTECH offers a revised solution that aims to solve this problem by attaching directly to the backpack strap.
Function Overview
Upon closer examination of the technical data, it is noticeable that the manufacturer uses a solid aluminum alloy for the material selection. The housing has a textured coating that is intended to protect against corrosion and gives the product a resistant surface.
With dimensions of 88 by 45 by 24 millimeters, the PGYTECH Beetle Camera Clip V2 remains quite compact and does not protrude uncomfortably on a backpack strap.
The weight of the base station alone is a light 79 grams, while the entire system including the included quick-release plate weighs 94 grams. Despite this lightweight construction, the manufacturer specifies a maximum load capacity of up to 30 kilograms, which provides a reassuring reserve even for heavier camera systems.
In terms of compatibility with various backpack straps, the system is adaptable, as it can accommodate straps with a width of up to eighty millimeters and a thickness between one and twenty millimeters.
The mount uses the manufacturer's own SnapLock quick-release system, which has been revised in this second version to work with the majority of square Arca-Swiss compatible plates on the market, significantly increasing flexibility in everyday use.
In Practice
In everyday photography practice, the question often arises of how to transport the camera on longer journeys. A conventional neck strap often proves impractical, as it easily gets tangled with the straps of a backpack, causes uncomfortable pressure points, and lets the camera swing uncontrollably back and forth while walking or bending forward.
Storing the camera in the backpack pocket instead is also not a practical option. In practice, this usually leads to using the camera far too rarely due to cumbersome access, thus missing spontaneous subjects. This is where the strap clip approach comes in, positioning the camera within reach at chest height, where the weight is evenly distributed on the backpack's carrying system.
The attachment process to the backpack strap is quite straightforward thanks to the revised clamping mechanism. The system completely encloses the strap and is secured by a flexible band with a wear-resistant coating to prevent slipping.
An important aspect in practical use is attaching the quick-release plate to the camera itself. The plate is screwed onto the bottom of the camera either with the included hex key or with a conventional coin. While this ensures a firm and reliable connection, it has the disadvantage that in the field you always need a tool or a suitable coin if you want to remove or change the plate.
For a future version of this product, an integrated fastening option, such as a fold-out bracket or an integrated loop on the screw itself, would be a desirable option to make handling completely tool-free.
Inserting the camera into the mount is smooth. The plate slides into the receptacle and clicks audibly into place, whereupon the automatic lock engages. For additional security, a manual slide switch prevents accidental release of the camera. This is especially beneficial when walking on uneven terrain or during quick movements. To remove the camera again, the release button must be pressed, which works well with one hand after a short familiarization period.
It is pleasant that the clip is rounded and thus not uncomfortable if you come into contact with it. Of course, it is practical that you can quickly place the camera on a tripod.
Conclusion
In summary, the PGYTECH Beetle Camera Clip V2 is a well-thought-out solution for a well-known transport problem. It frees the photographer's neck from the weight of the camera and ensures that the tool is always ready for use instead of remaining unused in the backpack.
The robust construction from an aluminum alloy and the reliable safety mechanisms convey a high level of trustworthiness in daily use.
The fact that a tool is still required for mounting the camera plate remains a minor criticism that could be addressed in a future version. Nevertheless, the practical advantages such as high compatibility and high wearing comfort due to the rounded shape outweigh this.
For photographers who are often on foot with a backpack, this clip is a useful tool that makes the photographic process easier, but above all ensures that the camera is always within reach, so you take more photos.
Buy
The Beetle Camera Clip V2 is available directly from the official PGYTECH website. There you will find detailed product information as well as various color variants and optional accessories.
Of course, the clip can also be ordered from Amazon.
