The cold is causing my fingers to go numb and I rush to wrap the exposed copper wire with a bit of black electrical tape. In the damp weather I knew it was time to replace my trusty well used Canon TC-80N3 Intervalometer. Returning home I was shopping online for a replacment when my eye caught a much less expensive, and just as capable intervalometer by Neewer, at one fifth the cost, it seemed to good to be true.
Neewer EZa-C3 Overview
The Neewer intervalometer is a direct competitor with the Canon TC-80N3. At a price of $19.99 on Amazon, the cost difference from the $129 TC-80N3 initially left me a bit skeptical, but I thought it would be worth a try.
The Neewer offers the same features as the TC-80N3. It is capable of:
- Intervalometer for Time-Lapse
- Shutter release
- Bulb Mode shutter release
The Neewer is also a wired release. It is not dependant on a smartphone or other transmitter. If you are looking for a wireless release look elsewhere.
Ergonomics
The button layout on the Neewer is more logical than the Canon. The nicest touch is the fact that the timer start/stop button is larger and easier to press. Even in a pair of light gloves I have had no trouble changing the settings. This is a much different experience than having to strip off gloves and use the corner of my nail to press the start/stop button on the Canon model.
The navigation buttons are laid out similar to a videogame controller with a directional pad. For switching through the menus and changing the values for intervals or number of images for use in time-lapse photography this control layout feels natural.
The control face is clear for those using the intervalometer features. Above the LCD display indicators are clearly labled, Delay, Long, Interval and N (for number of shots). The lables make it quick and easy to remember how to setup a timelapse even if its been a while since you last used it.
My only gripe with the Neewer is the tactile response of the shutter release button when trying to engage the autofocus. A half shutter press to focus is tricky and it takes some practice. That may come as a big turn-off to some. For the price I found it worth the extra practice to get used to the very sensitive sweet spot to engage the autofocus, rather than pay for a $129 Canon unit.
Batteries
The EZa-C3 uses two AAA batteries. In the case that my batteries were to die on the road I know I’ll be able to pick up a few spares at any gas station. To me this gives me piece of mind as compared to the Canon intervalometer. While in the several years I was using the TC-80N3 the watch battery never failed, I had an fear that it would while I was somewhere remote. The battery life is great. I’ve had my Neewer unit for over 2 years and I have yet to replace the first set of batteries.
Good Value For The Money
At $20 on Amazon the Neewer EZa-C3
I’ve been using my Neewer unit for over a year now. If for some reason it should break due to my own negligence I would definately get another.
