Sena 50C Review: Integrated Camera & Mic Performance
Featured Creator
left for contents
Today I wanted to share my thoughts on the Sena 50C—a communication device and action cam all in one.
This article is based on the video by Scouts Out.
Why the Sena 50C?
What got me interested was the idea of using a single mic and camera setup without needing to strap on a GoPro, and still being able to catch footage. That’s a cool idea. But as I’ve been using it, I’ve noticed some ups and downs that are worth talking about.
A premium helmet communication system with Mesh and Bluetooth intercom, Harman Kardon audio, and an integrated 4K camera.
- Crystal-clear sound with Harman Kardon speakers and microphone
- Seamless Mesh and Bluetooth intercom for reliable connectivity
- Integrated 4K camera for high-quality video recording
Installation Experience
Getting the Sena installed wasn’t hard. I got it on the helmet pretty quickly. If I had spent more time routing and taping the wires down properly inside the helmet, I could’ve avoided that balled-up chunk of wire that might leave a sore spot on your head. Lesson learned.
The App Situation
So, here’s the deal: the Sena app? I think it sucks. I’ve never liked it, never used it. I just connect my phone via Bluetooth and use Siri to do what I need to do, and that’s worked fine with my older Sena devices.
But with the 50C, you actually need two apps. Technically you don’t need them, because you can still record and all that without them, but the camera app? That one’s worth having. It lets you see what the camera sees, change settings—basically, it makes the whole experience smoother. Unlike the regular Sena app, the camera one actually works pretty well.
Camera Settings and Limitations
You can shoot in 4K, which sounds great, but if you want image stabilization, you’ve got to drop to 1080p. What bugs me most is that you can’t shoot in 24fps. Everything I record is 24 frames, and now I’m stuck with 30fps. That makes syncing audio and video just a bit more annoying.
So yeah, you can shoot and tweak settings—but be prepared for those limitations.
First Ride and Test Footage
I’ve only taken one ride so far with it, and what you’re seeing in the footage is exactly what the camera captured. I’m using the built-in mic for this, too.
Audio-wise, it’s… not bad. But the noise cancellation is way too aggressive. Like, there’s zero motorcycle sound. None. It’s wild. Compare that to my GoPro setup with a Rode lav mic—I get engine noise, wind, and some ambient sound. Sure, it’s not perfect, but it sounds alive.
The Sena’s mic is so quiet, it feels like I’m just floating through space.
Why It Matters for Motovlogging
Here’s the thing: that kind of noise filtering is great when you’re on a phone call—it really does a solid job there. But if you’re trying to make a motovlog or something more cinematic, it ruins it. I’d need a second audio device to get any sense of environment or bike sound.
You could use a 360 cam or something else to capture background sound and layer that underneath your main audio. Not ideal, but doable.
Video Placement and Image Quality
I’ve never been a fan of helmet-side mounted videos. Sometimes it looks good, but most of the time… meh. Still, this could be a cool secondary or B-roll camera. Or maybe even a main cam if you supplement it with extra gear.
But the image stabilization? Honestly, it’s not great. It feels like the camera is just cropping into a 1080p box and shifting around to try to compensate. I’m likely just going to turn it off.
Low-Light Struggles
Another thing I noticed—the 50C is terrible in low light. Not just “kinda bad,” but like, really bad. Even riding under a bush or mild shade, the footage starts to degrade. Stabilization gets worse, the image softens—it just doesn’t handle shadows or dim settings well at all.
Comm System Performance
Where the Sena shines is where it always has: Bluetooth communication. Phone calls and music sound great. Sena’s been doing that well for a long time, and this unit keeps that tradition alive.
I’ve put Sena systems on almost every helmet I’ve owned. This helmet was practically begging for one. So I figured—why not try the video version this time?
The Value of Convenience
Even if the camera isn’t perfect, I can still randomly capture moments or grab photos I might have missed otherwise. I almost never ride with a GoPro mounted unless I know I’m filming, so having this thing always there, ready to roll, is kind of nice.
Is it amazing? No. Is it cool? Yeah.
Will it replace a GoPro + mic setup for actual vlogging? Absolutely not. You can use pieces of it in a proper video, sure—but you’re not making a full, polished vlog with just the 50C. Not in my opinion.
Final Thoughts
So that’s where I stand with the Sena 50C. It’s a cool piece of tech. It’s convenient. But it’s not a full replacement for a dedicated camera and mic setup.
Hope that helped you out—whether you’re trying to decide whether or not to buy one, or just setting expectations.
A premium helmet communication system with Mesh and Bluetooth intercom, Harman Kardon audio, and an integrated 4K camera.
- Crystal-clear sound with Harman Kardon speakers and microphone
- Seamless Mesh and Bluetooth intercom for reliable connectivity
- Integrated 4K camera for high-quality video recording
