With the growth of digital FPV systems, innovation in analog FPV cameras also seemed to be slowing down. But the launch of Caddx's new Ratel Pro camera has created some excitement. Caddx claims that the Ratel Pro is not just a camera, but a camera that delivers excellent image quality in both daytime and low-light conditions. In this review, we will take a closer look at the features and compare the day and night performance of the well-known Ratel 2.
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Where to buy?
Buy Caddx Ratel Pro cameras from these suppliers:
Comes with the following accessories:
Specification
- image sensor: BSI 1/1.8″ inch sensor
- horizontal resolution: 1500TVL
- TV system: NTSC & PAL (changeable)
- video: 16:9 & 4:3 (changeable)
- WDR: Super WDR (HDR)
- minimal lighting: 0.00001 lux
- lens: 5Mega
- color: Black color
- synchronization: interior
- electronic shutter: PAL: 1/50; NTSC: 1/60
- signal to noise ratio: >60dB (AGC off)
- video output: CVBS
- OSD manual: apply
- DNR: 3-DNR
- FOV: 125°
- language: ENGLISH/中文/繁中文/Русский/ESPANOL/ITALIANO/FRANCAIS/POLSKIM/PORTUGUES/日本语
- day/night: Auto/Color/B&W/EXT
- size: 19mm*19mm
- Wide power input: DC 4.5-27V
- weight: 9.5g
Design, Build and Features
The Caddx Ratel Pro maintains the existing 19x19mm form factor, but differentiates itself from the Ratel 2 with an entirely new design. The Pro version sports a metal case for added durability and acts as a heatsink, but despite adding 4g, it still weighs 9.5g compared to the Ratel 2's 5g.
Featuring a large 1/1.8-inch image sensor, similar in size to the discontinued Runcam Eagle 2, the Ratel Pro can capture more light, promising superior low-light performance. The camera is claimed to deliver excellent image quality with a minimum illumination requirement of 0.00001 lux.
However, the Ratel Pro's lens is noticeably longer than the Ratel 2's lens, potentially complicating mounting and protection. A notable downside is the 125° field of view (FOV), which is much narrower than the typical 160° FOV found on modern FPV cameras such as the Ratel 2, which offers a 165° FOV. We believe that FPV drones can benefit from a wider field of view, especially when flying in close quarters or navigating tight spaces. This narrow FOV may therefore limit its appeal to FPV drone pilots who are accustomed to a wider perspective.
Ratel Pro supports switchable 4:3 and 16:9 aspect ratios, which can be switched from the OSD menu using the supplied joystick. It can be powered by a wide voltage range of 4.5V to 27V and can accept direct power from 2S to 6S batteries.
weekly performance
We tested the Caddx Ratel Pro with default settings and found very decent image quality, vibrant colors, and wide dynamic range. The image appeared sharper than the Ratel 2. You can see more details in the image. You can see some digital artifacts in the tree branches, so it may feel a little too sharp for my taste. Fortunately, you can adjust sharpness in the settings. In contrast, Ratel 2 produces a softer, less contrasty image.
The Pro's reduced FOV is immediately noticeable and somewhat limiting for FPV drone flying, potentially making it better suited to high-altitude flights such as fixed-wing aircraft. However, the positive side was that “fisheye” distortion was reduced and distances were more accurately represented.
night performance
Traditionally, cameras like the Runcam Night Eagle 3 have set the standard for low-light FPV flight. High sensitivity to light makes it excellent even in the dark. However, their performance under the bright sun leaves much to be desired. That's where Ratel Pro steps in, promising the best of both worlds: vivid colors during the day and excellent night vision.
The camera's low-light performance was impressive, thanks to the larger image sensor and improved algorithms, delivering crisp, clear images where the Ratel 2 suffered from graininess and noise.
conclusion
Caddx Ratel Pro is a step forward in analog FPV camera technology, delivering outstanding performance in both day and night conditions. However, narrow FOV can be a problem for many drone pilots. Personally, I can't beat the Ratel 2 for FPV drones, but it may find a niche for pilots flying at higher altitudes or in applications where a narrower FOV is acceptable. For those looking for a versatile FPV camera that can perform well both day and night, the Ratel Pro is worth considering.
Buy Caddx Ratel Pro cameras from these suppliers: