The AKASO Brave 4 4K30fps 20MP WiFi Action Camera is a budget-friendly option for capturing stunning videos and photos. This review details my extensive experience with this versatile camera.
For years, I’ve dreamed of capturing breathtaking footage of my outdoor adventures. The thought of missing those unforgettable moments, of not having a high-quality record of my experiences, spurred me to seek out a reliable yet affordable action camera. I knew that a solution like the AKASO Brave 4 would have been incredibly beneficial back then, saving me from the disappointment of blurry phone videos or missed opportunities.
- 4K30fps Video & 20MP Photo: Capture every detail of life’s most beautiful moments with video...
- 170° Adjustable View Angle and Image Stabilization: With four customizable viewing angles of 170°,...
- Sport Camera with Wifi and HDMI: This action camera comes equipped with both Wi-Fi and HDMI...
- 131FT Waterproof Camera and Dual Screen: Place your action camera into the waterproof case and...
Factors to Consider Before Purchasing an Action Camera
Action cameras are designed to capture dynamic moments during activities like biking, hiking, and water sports. They’re useful for creating engaging content for social media and preserving memories. The ideal customer is someone who wants high-quality video and photos without breaking the bank. This camera isn’t ideal for professional filmmakers demanding absolute top-of-the-line features, but for hobbyists and everyday adventurers, the AKASO Brave 4 delivers excellent value. Those seeking the absolute best image quality and extensive professional features should consider higher-end models from GoPro or similar brands. Before buying, consider your budget, the type of activities you’ll be recording, desired video resolution (4K vs. 1080p), and the importance of features like image stabilization and waterproofing. Think about the accessories you might need (extra batteries, mounts, etc.) and whether the included accessories meet your needs.
Introducing the AKASO Brave 4: A Detailed Overview
The AKASO Brave 4 4K30fps 20MP WiFi Action Camera boasts 4K video recording at 30 frames per second, along with 20MP still image capture. It promises high-quality footage with various shooting modes and features, including Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS) and impressive waterproofing. The camera comes with two batteries, a remote control, and a variety of mounts, making it well-suited for many activities. Compared to market leaders, it offers a similar feature set at a significantly lower price point than a GoPro. Previous AKASO models lacked some of the refinements found in the Brave 4, such as improved EIS and a more user-friendly interface. This action camera is perfect for casual users and adventurers who prioritize affordability without sacrificing decent quality. It is not designed for professional-level filmmaking that requires absolute top-tier performance and extreme durability.
- Pros: Affordable price, 4K video recording, good image stabilization, waterproof design, extensive accessories included, user-friendly interface (relatively speaking).
- Cons: Small screen, limited low-light performance, the remote is not waterproof, battery life could be better for extended use, build quality feels a bit flimsy compared to higher-end models.
Exploring the Features and Benefits of the AKASO Brave 4
Video Recording Capabilities
The AKASO Brave 4‘s 4K video recording is a standout feature. The image quality is sharp and detailed, even at 30fps. While not quite matching the dynamic range of more expensive cameras, it’s remarkably good for the price point. I’ve used it extensively for mountain biking, capturing fast-paced footage with smooth transitions, thanks to the effective EIS. The various video resolution options (4K, 2.7K, 1080p) allow for flexibility depending on your needs and storage capacity. The higher resolutions obviously require more storage space, so planning ahead is crucial.
Image Stabilization
The built-in Electronic Image Stabilization is a game-changer. It significantly reduces the shakiness often present in action camera footage, resulting in noticeably smoother videos. I found this particularly helpful during bumpy bike rides and while navigating uneven terrain on foot. This significantly enhanced the overall viewing experience, as even slightly shaky footage can disrupt the flow and enjoyment of videos. While not quite as effective as some higher-end optical image stabilization systems, the AKASO Brave 4‘s EIS does an admirable job for its price range.
Waterproof Design and Underwater Capabilities
The Brave 4’s waterproof housing is a fantastic asset. I’ve submerged it to depths well beyond snorkeling, capturing impressive underwater footage with good clarity and color reproduction. However, keep in mind that the remote is NOT waterproof; this is a major downside. The camera performs particularly well in bright, sunny conditions but struggles a bit in darker, murkier waters. The waterproof case is securely sealed, though, ensuring the camera stays dry and protected from the elements. This makes it ideal for various water sports and outdoor adventures.
Connectivity and Accessories
The Wi-Fi connectivity is quite reliable, allowing for easy transfer of footage and photos to smartphones and tablets using the dedicated app. This streamlines the post-processing workflow and simplifies sharing your content. The camera also has an HDMI port, enabling direct connection to a TV for viewing larger recordings. The wide array of included accessories – mounts for bikes, helmets, and more – significantly enhances the versatility of the camera. It’s convenient to have the essential mounting options readily available, so you don’t need to purchase them separately.
User Interface and Ease of Use
While relatively user-friendly, the AKASO Brave 4‘s interface could benefit from some improvements. The small screen makes navigating the menu slightly challenging, and some settings aren’t immediately intuitive. However, after a short period of getting used to it, it becomes easier to use. The learning curve isn’t steep and the camera does mostly everything automatically. The camera’s menu system allows access to various settings to optimize image quality and shooting preferences. Being able to customize aspects such as resolution, frame rate, and shooting modes provides flexibility.
Battery Life
The provided two batteries offer approximately 90 minutes of recording time each, under optimal conditions. This is adequate for most shorter outings or activities, but for all-day adventures, investing in additional batteries is highly recommended. A longer battery life for extended usage, without needing to switch batteries in the middle of recording, would be a very welcome improvement. The charging time is also a factor to consider for long excursions or multiple day trips, though the dual charger helps somewhat.
Real-World Experiences: User Feedback
Online reviews consistently highlight the AKASO Brave 4‘s excellent value for its price. Many users praise its video quality, waterproof capabilities, and the abundance of included accessories. Some users have found the small screen and the battery life slightly limiting but overall most users are positive and overwhelmingly praise the camera’s ability to capture high-quality footage at an affordable price point. The comments often reflect the exceptional value offered considering its relatively low cost compared to its higher-priced competitors.
Final Verdict: A Budget-Friendly Action Camera Champion
The AKASO Brave 4 successfully solves the problem of needing a high-quality action camera without the high price tag of competitors. Its 4K video recording, effective image stabilization, and robust waterproofing make it perfect for capturing memorable moments in various settings. While it does have a few minor drawbacks (small screen, remote not waterproof), its affordable price and impressive features outweigh these issues. To check out the AKASO Brave 4 4K30fps Action Camera and start recording your own adventures, click here.