If you’re in the market for a new camera or simply looking to upgrade from your current one, you’ve probably considered buying a Vivitar product. But is Vivitar a good brand to invest in? Well, the answer is a little more complicated than a simple yes or no. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what makes Vivitar a unique brand in today’s market and see what real-life users have to say about their experiences with the company’s cameras.
In the world of photography, there’s no shortage of options when it comes to picking a brand. From Canon to Nikon, the possibilities can seem endless. However, Vivitar has been around for nearly a century, earning the trust of countless customers in the process. Over the years, the company has produced a wide range of cameras, lenses, and accessories that cater to photographers of all skill levels. So, if you’re wondering whether or not Vivitar is a good brand from a historical perspective, the answer is a resounding yes.
Of course, the quality of a brand’s products isn’t just about the past – it’s current and future potential matter, too. And that’s where things can get a little more complicated when it comes to Vivitar’s reputation. Some users are quick to praise the company for its reliable and affordable options, while others have reported issues with certain models and product lines. So, what’s the verdict? Is Vivitar a good brand to invest in today? We’ll dive deeper into this question next.
Vivitar’s History and Background
Vivitar is a company that is well-known for producing cameras and photographic equipment. Founded in 1938 as Ponder & Best, Inc., Vivitar has been around for over 80 years. The company was based in Santa Monica, California and was originally just a distributor of photographic equipment and optical products. The name “Vivitar” was only adopted in 1965 when the company began producing its own line of cameras and lenses.
Vivitar quickly became a household name in the world of photography by producing affordable cameras with innovative features. Their cameras were particularly popular among amateur photographers who wanted high-quality images without breaking the bank. Vivitar also became famous for producing a range of lenses that were compatible with cameras from other manufacturers.
Over the years, Vivitar has gone through several changes in ownership. The company was first purchased by another optical company, Kilfit, in 1979. After Kilfit went bankrupt, Vivitar was sold to the Hanimex Corporation in 1986. The company was later sold to Syntax-Brillian Corporation in 2006, and then to Sakar International in 2008. Despite all these ownership changes, Vivitar continues to produce a wide range of photographic equipment to this day.
What Makes Vivitar a Good Brand?
- High-quality products at affordable prices
- Innovative features in cameras and lenses
- A broad range of products suitable for both amateur and professional photographers
- A long and prestigious history in the world of photography
- Compatible with other manufacturers
Vivitar’s Contribution to Photography
Vivitar’s contribution to the world of photography cannot be overstated. The company’s affordable cameras and lenses allowed people from all walks of life to capture precious memories, whether it was a family vacation or a special occasion. Vivitar’s cameras were also favored by many street photographers as they were small and unobtrusive, allowing photographers to capture candid moments without drawing attention to themselves.
Vivitar was also responsible for pioneering many features in modern cameras such as automatic exposure and motorized zoom lenses. These features were groundbreaking at the time and paved the way for modern digital photography.
Vivitar’s Future
Despite its long history, Vivitar has embraced the digital revolution and continues to produce a range of digital cameras and other photographic equipment. As the photography industry continues to evolve, Vivitar remains committed to producing innovative and affordable products that allow people to capture important moments in their lives.
| Company Name | Year Purchased |
|---|---|
| Kilfit | 1979 |
| Hanimex Corporation | 1986 |
| Syntax-Brillian Corporation | 2006 |
| Sakar International | 2008 |
Vivitar’s long and prestigious history in the world of photography, combined with its commitment to producing innovative and affordable products, makes it a great brand for both amateur and professional photographers.
User reviews of Vivitar products
Vivitar has been in the photography industry for over 80 years and has constantly been improving its products. Here are some user reviews of Vivitar products:
- “I purchased the Vivitar DVR786HD action camera for my trips and it captures the best moments. It’s easy to use, waterproof, and comes with a variety of mounts.” – John S.
- “I got the Vivitar ViviCam digital camera for my daughter’s birthday and she loves it. It’s small, lightweight and takes great pictures.” – Lisa M.
- “After using the Vivitar 600EX-RT flash for a month, I highly recommend it to anyone in need of a good quality flash. It’s affordable and comes with advanced features that even professionals appreciate.” – Mark T.
The quality of Vivitar products
Vivitar is known for its quality products at an affordable price point. Their cameras, lenses, and flashes are user-friendly and cater to both amateur and professional photographers. Vivitar products are constantly improving, and the brand has recently released several new products. With proper care, Vivitar products can last a long time, making them a great investment.
Vivitar’s customer service
Vivitar has a dedicated customer service team that’s easily accessible to customers, whether it be through phone or email. They aim to provide a positive experience for each customer by addressing any concerns or issues that may arise. Vivitar also offers a one-year limited warranty on its products, ensuring that any defects or malfunctions during that time will be addressed by the company.
Vivitar’s product range
Vivitar offers a diverse range of products that cater to different photography needs. From action cameras to digital cameras, lenses, flashes, tripods, and even telescopes, the brand has something for everyone. Vivitar’s products are designed to be user-friendly and work with a variety of systems, making them a great choice for both amateurs and professionals.
| Product | Features | Price |
| Vivitar DVR786HD Action Camera | Waterproof, built-in WiFi, 1080p HD video, comes with mounts | $69.99 |
| Vivitar ViviCam Digital Camera | 14-megapixel resolution, 4x digital zoom, compact size | $39.99 |
| Vivitar 600EX-RT Flash | Guide number 60m at ISO 100, high-speed sync, wireless triggering, TTL compatible | $119.99 |
Overall, Vivitar is a great brand for photography enthusiasts who are looking for quality and affordability. With a range of products that cater to different photography needs, their products are user-friendly and offer advanced features that professionals appreciate.
Comparison of Vivitar to Other Camera Brands
Many photographers and consumers alike may question whether or not Vivitar is a good brand to invest in when purchasing a camera. In this article, we will explore the quality of Vivitar cameras and compare them to other well-known camera brands on the market.
- Canon: When compared to Canon cameras, Vivitar may fall short in terms of overall quality. Canon is known for producing top-of-the-line cameras that are ideal for both amateurs and professionals alike. They also have a wider range of lenses and accessories available for their cameras.
- Nikon:Nikon is another established camera brand known for producing high-quality cameras and lenses. Like Canon, they also offer a wider range of accessories and lenses. Vivitar may not match Nikon’s reputation and level of product innovation, but they do offer budget-friendly options that may be appealing to some consumers.
- Sony:Sony is a newer camera brand that has gained a lot of popularity in recent years. They specialize in mirrorless cameras and have been praised for their compact and lightweight design. When compared to Vivitar, Sony may be seen as more innovative and forward-thinking.
While Vivitar may not match the level of quality and innovation of other camera brands, they do offer affordable options for those who may be on a tight budget. In addition, their cameras do have some positive qualities worth noting. For example, Vivitar cameras are often praised for their compact size and user-friendly design.
Overall, it is important to do your research and consider your personal needs and preferences before purchasing a camera from any brand. The table below provides a quick overview of the pros and cons of some popular camera brands in comparison to Vivitar.
| Brand | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Vivitar | Affordable, compact design, user-friendly | Somewhat limited features and accessories |
| Canon | High-quality, wide range of lenses and accessories, great for professionals and amateurs alike | Can be quite expensive, heavier and bulkier design |
| Nikon | High-quality, wide range of lenses and accessories, great for professionals and amateurs alike | Can be quite expensive, heavier and bulkier design |
| Sony | Compact and lightweight design, innovative features, great for mirrorless cameras | Less established brand, limited range of lenses and accessories |
Ultimately, the decision between Vivitar and other camera brands will come down to personal preference and budget. While they may not match the level of quality and innovation of other brands, Vivitar does offer affordable options that may be ideal for beginner or amateur photographers.
Vivitar’s Wide Range of Product Offerings
For decades, Vivitar has been a leading provider of quality consumer electronics and photography equipment. With a reputation for producing innovative, feature-packed devices at affordable prices, it’s no wonder that Vivitar is a trusted brand among consumers.
Cameras and Accessories
- Point-and-shoot cameras
- DSLR cameras
- Action cameras
- Lenses
- Flashes
- Tripods
- Bags and cases
Whether you’re an amateur photographer looking for your first camera or a seasoned pro in need of accessories, Vivitar has a wide range of options to suit your needs. The company offers everything from basic point-and-shoot models to high-end DSLRs, along with an impressive selection of lenses, flashes, and other photography accessories.
Audio Equipment
In addition to cameras, Vivitar offers a variety of audio equipment to enhance your listening experience. This includes headphones, portable speakers, and soundbars, all designed to deliver high-quality sound at affordable prices.
Smart Home Devices
Vivitar’s smart home line includes a range of devices designed to help you keep your home secure and connected. This includes security cameras, doorbells, and other monitoring devices, as well as smart plugs and lighting solutions.
| Product | Description |
|---|---|
| Smart Home Security Camera | A wireless security camera with motion detection and 2-way audio |
| Wireless Video Doorbell | A doorbell with integrated camera and 2-way audio |
| Smart Plug | A plug that allows you to turn your appliances on and off remotely |
| Smart LED Bulb | A Wi-Fi enabled light bulb that can be controlled with your smartphone or voice commands |
With Vivitar’s smart home devices, you can easily monitor your home from anywhere and control your appliances and lighting with just the touch of a button.
Vivitar’s Presence in the Global Market
Vivitar is a well-known brand all over the world, thanks to its innovative products and its continuous efforts to expand its reach. Here are five key points that demonstrate Vivitar’s presence in the global market:
- Vivitar has a global network of distribution channels that reaches customers in over 100 countries. This allows the brand to reach a wide market and cater to the needs of customers all around the world.
- The brand has a strong online presence, with its products being sold on major e-commerce platforms like Amazon, eBay, and Walmart. This makes it easier for customers around the world to purchase Vivitar products.
- Vivitar has a long-standing reputation for producing high-quality and affordable products in different categories such as action cameras, binoculars, telescopes, and more. Customers from various regions of the world have come to trust the brand for its quality products.
- Vivitar has been recognized globally for its high-quality products. The brand has received several awards and honors, including the International CES Innovation Award, Product of the Year Award, and the American Photo Magazine Editor’s Choice Award.
- The brand has successfully collaborated with other major brands in different industries to expand its reach even further. For instance, Vivitar has partnered with companies such as Sakar International to expand its portfolio of innovative products and strengthen its presence in the market.
Vivitar’s Latest Market Developments
Vivitar has been making significant strides in expanding its reach even further. Here are some of the latest developments in the brand’s global market:
In recent years, Vivitar has been putting more efforts into expanding its product lines. Vivitar has expanded its portfolio of products to include new categories such as drones, security cameras, and dashcams. This move has helped the brand to diversify its offerings and cater to the growing needs of its global customer base.
Furthermore, Vivitar has formed partnerships with key players in the market, such as Google and Amazon, to bring innovative products to consumers. These partnerships have been vital in bringing together the latest technologies and trends to produce products tailored to meet the needs of customers around the world.
Another development in Vivitar’s global market is its increased focus on sustainability. The brand has introduced new eco-friendly products and practices to meet the growing demand for sustainable products. For instance, Vivitar has introduced rechargeable batteries and solar-powered products to promote a greener lifestyle.
Vivitar’s Market Share in the Global Market
Vivitar’s market share in the global market has grown significantly over the years. With a focus on quality and affordability, Vivitar has positioned itself as a leading brand in key product categories such as action cameras and binoculars. The brand’s reputation for producing high-quality products at an affordable price has attracted a wide customer base, from professional photographers to hobbyists.
According to recent industry reports, Vivitar has a significant market share in the action camera market, with its GoPro alternatives gaining popularity among consumers. The brand’s binoculars and telescopes also have a considerable market share, with its wide range of products catering to the diverse needs of customers.
| Product Category | Market Share |
|---|---|
| Action Cameras | 10% |
| Binoculars & Telescopes | 20% |
Vivitar’s growing market share can be attributed to its continuous efforts in expanding its reach, innovating its products, and catering to the evolving needs of customers. With a strong global presence and a loyal customer base, Vivitar has established itself as a reputable brand in the market.
Pricing of Vivitar products compared to competitors
Vivitar is a well-known brand that offers a wide range of products including cameras, lenses, tripods, and other accessories. When it comes to pricing, Vivitar products are generally more affordable compared to its competitors in the market.
- For example, Vivitar’s 14-megapixel Compact Digital Camera is priced at $49.99, while a similar camera from Sony costs around $99.99.
- Similarly, Vivitar’s Professional Tripod is priced at $29.99, while a similar tripod from Manfrotto can cost around $200.
- Vivitar’s lenses are also reasonably priced with its 500mm f/8.0 Telephoto Lens available for $99.99, whereas a similar lens from Sigma costs around $699.
This makes Vivitar an attractive option for amateur photographers and those who are on a budget. Despite the price, the quality of Vivitar products is not compromised. In fact, many users have attested to the good performance of Vivitar products despite their affordable price tags.
However, it’s important to note that some Vivitar products may have lower specifications compared to their more expensive competitors. This means that professional photographers or those who require high-end equipment may need to look elsewhere.
| Product | Vivitar | Competitor |
|---|---|---|
| 14-megapixel Compact Digital Camera | $49.99 | $99.99 |
| Professional Tripod | $29.99 | $200 |
| 500mm f/8.0 Telephoto Lens | $99.99 | $699 |
In conclusion, Vivitar offers a good balance between affordability and quality, making it a great option for those who are just starting in photography or on a budget. However, those who require high-end equipment may need to look for more expensive alternatives.
Impact of Vivitar’s Bankruptcy in the 2000s
During the 2000s, Vivitar, a well-known brand in the photography industry, declared bankruptcy, leaving many questioning the quality of their products and their future in the market.
The bankruptcy caused a significant impact on Vivitar’s reputation as it resulted in the company losing a considerable amount of money, leading to a decrease in product quality and customer satisfaction. The bankruptcy also caused many suppliers to stop doing business with Vivitar, which affected the availability of Vivitar products in the market.
- Many consumers began to look for other brands, resulting in a decline in Vivitar’s sales.
- The bankruptcy also caused a decrease in the number of stores that were carrying Vivitar products.
- Furthermore, the company stopped releasing new products during this time.
Although Vivitar was acquired by a new owner in 2006 and has since made some advancements in the market, the impact of the bankruptcy in the 2000s was significant.
Despite its past struggles, Vivitar has managed to stay in business and has made some improvements in their product quality since 2010. However, it is still unclear if they will regain the reputation they once had in the industry.
| Effect of Bankruptcy on Vivitar | Impact on the Market |
|---|---|
| Decrease in product quality and customer satisfaction | Consumers began to look for other brands, resulting in a decline in Vivitar’s sales. |
| Suppliers stopped doing business with Vivitar | Many stores stopped carrying Vivitar products. |
| Vivitar halted their release of new products. | The competition grew stronger in the market. |
Vivitar’s bankruptcy in the 2000s was indeed a significant downfall for the brand. However, the recent advancements they have made in the industry prove that they are willing to fight and stay in business. Whether they will be able to regain their reputation and success that they once had, only time can tell.
Quality control of Vivitar products
One of the essential aspects of any brand, including Vivitar, is quality control. It refers to the measures and processes that a company undertakes to ensure that its products meet the required quality standards and customer expectations. In simple terms, quality control is an essential part of a company’s production process to reduce or eliminate defects in its products.
- Vivitar is a brand known for its affordable yet high-quality cameras, lenses, and accessories.
- The company ensures the quality of its products by following strict quality control measures.
- Its products undergo a detailed quality control process, which involves specific tests and checks.
Vivitar follows a comprehensive quality control process covering all stages of production, starting from the raw materials to the final product. Each product undergoes multiple quality checks and tests before it is deemed fit for sale. The company has a dedicated team of quality control professionals who ensure that every product meets the required quality standards.
The following are some of the critical quality control measures Vivitar undertakes:
| Quality control measure | Description |
|---|---|
| Raw material inspection | Before any manufacturing process begins, all raw materials undergo inspection to ensure that they meet the required quality standards. |
| In-process inspection | During the manufacturing process, the products undergo an in-process inspection to identify any defects and eliminate them before completion. |
| Final product inspection | All products undergo a final inspection before packaging and shipping to ensure that they meet the required quality standards and specifications. |
| Testing for functionality and durability | All products go through rigorous testing to ensure that they are functional and durable and meet the required specifications. |
Overall, Vivitar is a brand known for its excellent quality products that are affordable for consumers. The company’s commitment to quality control measures ensures that its customers receive high-quality products that meet their requirements. As a result, Vivitar has gained a reputation as a brand that delivers products that are reliable, durable, and of high quality.
Innovations in Technology by Vivitar
Vivitar has been a reputable brand in the photography world for over 80 years. They are well-known for their affordable and reliable cameras, lenses, and other accessories. Over the years, Vivitar has also been consistent in adapting to new technologies and innovating their products to better serve their customers. Here are some of the notable innovations in technology by Vivitar:
- Wireless Connectivity: Vivitar has introduced a lot of cameras and accessories that can connect to mobile devices through Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. This allows users to remotely control their cameras, transfer files wirelessly, and even upload their photos and videos to social media right after taking them.
- 360-Degree Cameras: Vivitar is one of the few brands that offers affordable 360-degree cameras. Their 360×360 action camera, for example, captures high-quality panoramic videos and photos that can be viewed in virtual reality.
- Action Cameras: Vivitar’s action cameras are designed to be compact and durable, making them perfect for outdoor adventures. They have models that can shoot 4K videos, have built-in screens, and can be mounted on almost any surface.
Aside from those features, Vivitar has also been working on improving their lenses, image stabilization, and overall camera performance. They have integrated GPS, autofocus, and other features that can help photographers capture great photos and videos with ease.
Here are some of the other innovations that Vivitar has introduced over the years:
- HD camcorders with infrared night vision
- Underwater cameras and housings
- Quadcopters and drones with cameras
Vivitar has also been consistent in providing firmware updates and software solutions to their customers. They have a dedicated support team that can help users troubleshoot any issues and keep their products up-to-date with the latest features and improvements.
| Innovations | Examples |
|---|---|
| Wireless Connectivity | Smart Security Cameras, HD Wi-Fi Camcorders, Wireless Bluetooth Headphones |
| Action Cameras | 4K Action Cameras, DVR944HD Wi-Fi Action Camcorder, Spectacular Series 1080p |
| 360-Degree Cameras | DVR968HD 360-Degree Wi-Fi Action Camera, 360×360 Action Camera, LifeCam V12 360-Degree Action Camera |
| Other Innovations | Vivitar DVR786HD-SIL Action Camcorder, HD 720P Webcam, Smart Home Automation Solutions |
In conclusion, Vivitar is a good brand that has been consistently innovating their products and adapting to new technologies. They have introduced a lot of features that make photography and videography easier and more accessible to everyone. Whether you’re a beginner or a professional, Vivitar has something to offer.
Celebrities or famous photographers who have used Vivitar products.
Vivitar is a popular brand of camera and photographic equipment that has been in business since the 1930s. The brand has been used by many famous photographers and celebrities over the years. Here are some of them:
- Andy Warhol: The American artist, director, and producer used a Vivitar 35mm camera to capture many of his iconic shots.
- Helmut Newton: The German-Australian photographer used a Vivitar 283 Flash for his fashion photography during the 1960s and 1970s.
- Nigel Barker: The British fashion photographer and America’s Next Top Model judge used a Vivitar Ultra Wide and Slim 35mm camera and a Vivitar 285HV flash.
- Steve McCurry: The American photojournalist famously used a Vivitar film camera to capture his iconic National Geographic photo of ‘The Afghan Girl’.
- Jim Marshall: The American photographer and portraitist used a Vivitar 283 flash for his iconic portraits of musicians such as Jimi Hendrix and Janis Joplin.
It is no surprise that these professionals opted for Vivitar equipment as the brand has always been known for its quality of products. The brand has provided amazing tools that have helped many famous photographers to capture incredible imagery.
Vivitar is a trusted brand in the photographic industry and has been by the side of many professionals for years. It is a testament to the brand’s ability to provide high-quality equipment that can stand the test of time even with the frequent use by professionals.
Moreover, Vivitar has a complete range of products from cameras, lenses, flashes, and other photographic accessories that cater to photographers of all levels. This allows novices and professionals alike to have access to the same quality equipment used by top photographers in the industry.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Inexpensive | May not be as good as other high-end products |
| User-friendly design | Quality may vary depending on the product |
| Widely available | Sometimes the compatibility can be an issue with other brands |
Overall, the brand remains a great option for beginners and intermediate photographers who are looking for affordable photographic equipment. Vivitar’s brand of quality and affordability gives users the best of both worlds, and its impressive portfolio of famous users serves as proof of its reliability.
Is Vivitar a Good Brand? FAQs
1. Is Vivitar a trusted brand in the photography world?
Yes, Vivitar has been a trusted brand in the photography industry for over 80 years. It has a wide range of products, including cameras, lenses, and accessories, which are loved by photographers of all levels.
2. Are Vivitar cameras of good quality?
Yes, Vivitar cameras are of good quality and offer excellent value for money. They are ideal for beginners and hobbyists who want to explore the world of photography without breaking the bank.
3. Does Vivitar offer a warranty on its products?
Yes, Vivitar offers a limited warranty on its products. The duration of the warranty may vary depending on the product and the country of purchase. It’s always a good idea to check with the manufacturer or retailer for details.
4. What are the standout features of Vivitar products?
Vivitar products are known for their affordability, ease of use, and innovative features. They are designed to meet the needs of amateur and professional photographers alike.
5. Are Vivitar lenses compatible with other camera brands?
Yes, Vivitar lenses are compatible with most camera brands, including Nikon, Canon, Sony, and Panasonic. However, it’s important to check the compatibility before making a purchase.
6. Does Vivitar offer customer support?
Yes, Vivitar offers customer support through its website, email, and phone. It also has an online chat option and a knowledge base that can help customers troubleshoot issues.
7. What is the feedback from customers who have used Vivitar products?
Feedback from customers who have used Vivitar products has been mostly positive. They have praised the excellent value for money, ease of use, and quality of the products.
Closing Thoughts
We hope these FAQs have helped you understand why Vivitar is a good brand in the world of photography. With 80 years of experience, innovative features, and excellent value for money, Vivitar continues to be a popular choice for amateur and professional photographers. Thank you for reading, and we hope to see you again soon!