AKASO Action cameras

AKASO is a company that specializes in manufacturing action cameras and accessories. Based in China, AKASO entered the action camera market in 2014 and has quickly grown to become one of the most popular affordable action camera brands.

AKASO offers a wide range of action cameras to fit different budgets and needs. Their cameras are known for providing great value, with features like 4K video recording, built-in image stabilization, waterproof housing, and WiFi connectivity. Key selling points of AKASO cameras are their competitive pricing, ease of use, and versatility supported by a large assortment of mounts and accessories.

While AKASO may not have the brand recognition of GoPro or Sony, its cameras have earned praise for their performance and capabilities that rival more expensive models. The company frequently updates and improves its technology as well. Overall, AKASO action cameras are appealing options for consumers looking for quality filming on a budget.

AKASO Camera Models

AKASO offers a wide range of action cameras to suit different needs and budgets. Their most popular models include:

• EK7000 - This is AKASO's flagship 4K action camera. It can record 4K/25fps, 2.7K/30fps, 1080P/60fps video and 16 MP photos. It's waterproof up to 30m and has built-in Electronic Image Stabilization. The EK7000 is great for all types of outdoor adventures.

• EK7000 Pro - An upgraded version of the EK7000 with EIS and adjustable viewing angle up to 170°. It has additional features like voice control, USB charging and comes bundled with accessories.

• Brave 4 - This budget-friendly HD action cam records video in 1440p/30fps and 1080p/60fps. It has a compact, lightweight design and is waterproof up to 30m. The Brave 4 is ideal for beginners looking for good value.

• V50 Pro - Features UHD 4K/30fps and 20MP photo capabilities. It has electronic image stabilization, slow motion capabilities, and a touch screen rear display. The V50 Pro bundles useful accessories like a remote control.

• V50X - Offers similar specs to the V50 Pro like 4K/30fps video and 20MP photos. Key features include EIS, adjustable FOV up to 170°, and 5GHz Wi-Fi for greater connectivity. A versatile action camera good for travel and sports.

AKASO's range of action cams offers excellent value across different price points. Key factors are video quality, waterproofing, stabilization, and bundled accessories.

Image Quality

AKASO action cameras are known for their impressive image quality considering their affordable price point. The current AKASO model lineup records video at resolutions up to 4K at 30fps. Their highest end models like the EK7000 Pro can record crisp, ultra high definition 4K video for immersive footage.

For photos, AKASO cameras can shoot up to 20MP still images. This allows users to capture high resolution photos while partaking in action sports and activities. The high megapixel count enables sharp, detailed images.

When it comes to frame rates, AKASO cameras can record HD video at up to 60fps for smooth, clear video. The fast frame rates are great for action shots. Slow motion modes up to 120fps are also available on some models like the Brave 7 LE for dramatizing action scenes.

Overall, AKASO delivers excellent image quality and video/photo capabilities that compete with more expensive action camera brands. The combination of features like 4K recording, 20MP photo resolution, and 60fps video make these affordable cameras a great value.

Durability

AKASO action cameras are known for their durability and ability to withstand extreme conditions. This makes them a great choice for outdoor sports and adventures.

Waterproof

Many AKASO models have waterproof ratings of up to 131 feet (40 meters), making them suitable for underwater activities like swimming, snorkeling, and shallow scuba diving. Some of the higher-end models are waterproof without the need for an external housing. The waterproof design protects the camera from water damage.

Dustproof

In addition to being waterproof, most AKASO cameras have a dustproof rating of IP68. This means they are protected from dust, dirt, and sand getting into the device even in very dusty environments. You can take AKASO cameras with you worry-free for activities like hiking, climbing, and off-roading.

Shockproof

AKASO action cameras have a shockproof rating that allows them to withstand accidental drops and bumps during active use. Many models are shockproof from heights of 6.5-10 feet without damage. Some also have additional lens covers for extra protection. This shockproof design allows you to use the camera for intense activities without worrying about breaking it.

Battery Life

AKASO action cameras typically use rechargeable lithium-ion batteries that provide decent battery life. The exact battery life will vary depending on the specific model and settings used.

The entry-level AKASO EK7000, for example, can record up to 90 minutes of 4K video on a full charge. The higher-end AKASO Brave 7 LE can record up to 130 minutes of 4K video. For both models, the battery life is reduced when shooting high frame rates or with WiFi/GPS enabled.

In general, most AKASO cameras will last between 1-2 hours when recording high resolution or high frame rate video. Using lower video settings or timelapse photo modes can extend the battery life significantly.

To maximize battery life, it's recommended to turn off WiFi, reduce screen brightness, and close any apps running in the background. Carrying spare batteries or an external USB power bank can also help ensure you don't run out of juice mid-shoot.

Overall, the battery life of AKASO action cams is decent but not industry leading. For extended recording, an external power source may be required. But the batteries are removable and rechargeable, providing good flexibility.

Ease of Use

AKASO action cameras are known for their user-friendly design and intuitive controls. The menus and settings are straightforward and easy to navigate. Most models have a color LCD screen and simple button controls to toggle between modes and settings.

The AKASO smartphone app allows for wireless control and live preview of the camera. You can change settings, start/stop recording, review footage, and more all from your phone. The app pairs with the camera via built-in WiFi in a seamless process.

One of the benefits of AKASO cameras is that they provide a lot of advanced features in a simple package. You don't need to be an expert to get great footage. Beginners appreciate the simplicity while more advanced users enjoy the manual controls and settings.

Overall, AKASO cameras strike a nice balance between simplicity for novices and customization for experts. Their intuitive design makes capturing epic adventures easy and fun.

Accessories

AKASO action cameras come with a variety of useful accessories that enhance the functionality and expand the possibilities for video and photo capture.

Mounts

The cameras come with several mounting options right out of the box. This includes various brackets to mount the camera to helmets, bicycles, surfboards, and more. There are flat and curved adhesive mounts to attach the camera to flat and curved surfaces like skateboards, cars, boats, etc. Some models also include a wrist mount. Additional mounts like chest harnesses, head straps, and floating hand grips can be purchased separately.

Cases

To protect the camera during activity, AKASO offers waterproof cases that allow you to take the camera as deep as 130 feet underwater. There are also protective housing cases to shield the camera from dust, dirt or accidental drops. Some bundles come with a hard case for storage and transportation.

Batteries

The cameras come with rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. Additional batteries can be purchased for longer recording times. AKASO offers backup batteries in 1050mAh to 2050mAh capacities. The batteries have USB charging so they can be powered up from any USB port or charger.

Pros of AKASO

AKASO action cameras offer several key benefits and strengths that make them a popular choice among consumers.

• Affordable pricing: AKASO cameras are very competitively priced, making them an excellent value. Even the higher-end models are substantially cheaper than leading brands like GoPro. This makes AKASO a great option for budget-conscious buyers.

• Good image quality: While not on par with top-tier action cams, AKASO cameras produce pleasing image quality, especially when shooting outdoors in natural light. The footage is sharp and detailed enough for most users' needs.

• User-friendly interface: The menus and settings on AKASO cameras are straightforward and simple to navigate. This makes them easy to use right out of the box, even for beginners.

• Extensive accessories included: Most AKASO cameras come bundled with a large assortment of mounts, housings, straps and other accessories for flexibility. This is convenient compared to having to buy add-ons separately.

• Waterproof and rugged: AKASO cams have waterproof ratings of up to 131 feet and are built to withstand drops, bumps and shocks. Their durability suits the active, adventurous lifestyle their target demographic leads.

• Good battery life: Battery life is an important consideration with action cameras. AKASO batteries can record up to 90 minutes of 4K video on a single charge, comparing well to competitors.

Overall, AKASO offers an impressive balance of performance, features and value that make their action cams a compelling option for many users and budgets.

Cons of AKASO

AKASO cameras have some drawbacks compared to higher-end action camera brands. The image quality and video resolution may not be as sharp or high-quality as more expensive brands. They also don't have advanced features like voice control, live streaming, or hyperlapse modes.

The build quality and durability is not as robust as brands like GoPro. The plastic housing may not withstand extreme impacts or submersion as well. Battery life is also shorter compared to competitors, usually 1-2 hours of continuous recording per charge.

Low light performance is another downside, as the small image sensors struggle in dim conditions resulting in grainy or noisy footage. The microphones also pick up a lot of wind noise if not in a waterproof case.

Finally, the mobile app connectivity can be buggy at times. The WiFi range is limited and the connection may drop out frequently. The app is also lacking in some advanced features.

Overall AKASO cameras offer great value but lack some of the premium features, build quality, battery life and connectivity of higher-priced action cams. For budget-conscious consumers the tradeoffs may be worth it, but for hardcore users the limitations could be frustrating.

Conclusion

Overall, AKASO action cameras offer a great value for the price. They provide good image quality, decent durability, long battery life, and easy-to-use controls. The cameras also come with a variety of useful accessories like waterproof cases, mounts, and remote controls.

Some of the key pros of AKASO action cams are the affordable prices, 4K video resolution on newer models, built-in image stabilization, and wireless connectivity options. On the downside, the video quality may not match more expensive brands like GoPro, the build materials are mostly plastic, and the companion apps could use some improvement.

For budget-minded consumers or beginners looking to get started with an action cam, AKASO models are definitely worth considering. They provide a solid set of features at prices far below the big name brands. Just keep your expectations realistic for the video and image quality compared to $400+ action cams. Overall, AKASO delivers great bang for your buck.