HTC last year debuted a fun-looking action cam called the Re, but at $200 and lacking the waterproof abilities and video quality of similarly priced competitors, we didn't consider it a great bargain. That changes today.

HTC this week dropped the price of the Re to just $50, making it a way better deal for those in need of a convenience camera that's easier to shoot with than your smartphone, but not nearly as hardcore as a GoPro.

The Re, as PCMag's Sascha Segan described it, "looks either like a periscope or an asthma inhaler, depending on how you hold it." It features a 16-megapixel sensor, 146-degree wide angle lens, and easily connects to iOS and Android devices, letting you stream videos directly to YouTube or the Re App.

The Re earned a "fair" rating in PCMag's review, but again that was based on the $200 price tag. We found it was quick and easy to use, with an "intriguing, innovative design," and a solid app, but also said it underperforms in one key area: video quality.

"The HTC Re's disappointing video quality prevents me from recommending it as a primary video recording device," PCMag said. "If you find that you often miss memorable moments because reaching for your smartphone and loading its camera is too slow, the HTC Re may seem like a great solution, as it's quick and simple to use."

Related Hands On With the HTC Desire Eye Phone and Re Camera

HTC says the Re can record up to one hour and 50 minutes of continuous 1080p30 footage, which is on the lower side compared with other action cameras, which can last up to 2.5 hours. You can also use it to do some underwater shooting, but only down to 3.2 feet for just 30 minutes.

For more, check out the video below.

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