Akaso Brave 4 Review: Budget-Friendly Performance
Looking for a rugged, waterproof action camera that won’t break the bank? The Akaso Brave 4 Pro might be the perfect solution. With a sleek design, robust build, and an impressive list of features, it’s tailored for adventurers, thrill-seekers, and content creators. From underwater photography to fast-paced sports, this camera does it all, promising 4K video quality and smooth footage at a fraction of the cost of higher-end models. But is it really worth it? Let’s dive deep into what makes the Akaso Brave 4 Pro a standout and where it might fall short.
Product Details – Akaso Brave 4 Action Camera
- Video resolution: 4K at 30FPS
- Photo resolution: 20MP
- Waterproof: 131ft with case
- Screen size: 2 inches (dual-display)
- Battery life: 90 minutes per battery
- Image stabilization: EIS 2.0 with 6-axis gyroscope
- Zoom: 5x optical zoom
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi, USB, HDMI
- Weight: 558 grams
- Special features: Dual-display, waterproof, external mic support
- Accessories included: Dual charger, 2 batteries, remote wristband, waterproof case, straps
- Wireless compatibility: 802.11a/b/g/n/ac Wi-Fi
✅ Best For: Budget-conscious adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts needing a versatile, reliable action camera for both land and underwater activities.
Akaso Brave 4 Review – Pros & Cons
Pros of Akaso Brave 4
- ✅ Budget-friendly price with great features compared to high-end models.
- ✅ 4K video resolution provides high-quality visuals for action-packed moments.
- ✅ Waterproof up to 131ft with the included case, perfect for deep dives.
- ✅ Dual-screen display for easy selfie framing and adjusting settings on the go.
- ✅ Comes with extensive accessories including batteries, charger, and straps.
Cons of Akaso Brave 4
- ❗ Audio quality is lower compared to built-in microphones on premium cameras.
- ❗ The app experience can be glitchy and prone to crashing.
The Akaso Brave 4 Action Camera has received mostly positive reviews for its affordability and performance. Users appreciate its ability to handle both underwater and high-speed scenarios with ease, making it a great entry-level action cam.
In-Depth Review of the Akaso Brave 4 Action Camera
The Akaso Brave 4 has gained popularity as a more affordable alternative to high-end action cameras like the GoPro. Despite its lower price point, it offers an impressive set of features that make it a solid contender for casual and serious users alike. Here’s an in-depth breakdown of its strengths and weaknesses.
Design and Build Quality
The Akaso Brave 4 Pro is a compact, durable, and lightweight camera that feels solid in the hand. Weighing just 558 grams, it’s portable enough for outdoor adventures but built tough enough to endure rugged conditions. The waterproof case included in the package allows you to dive as deep as 131ft, making it perfect for underwater enthusiasts.
The dual-screen display is one of its standout features, with a 2-inch touchscreen on the back and a vivid front screen that’s ideal for framing selfies or vlogging. The buttons are easy to press even when the camera is inside the waterproof case, ensuring smooth operation while diving, hiking, or biking.
Video and Image Quality
One of the most appealing features of the Akaso Brave 4 Pro is its ability to shoot 4K video at 30fps. While it may not offer the super-smooth 60fps that more expensive models have, the 4K30fps setting still delivers sharp and detailed video footage that is more than sufficient for most users. The 20MP photo resolution allows for high-quality stills, making it a versatile tool for both photography and videography.
The built-in Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS) 2.0 with a 6-axis gyroscope helps smooth out shaky footage, ensuring your recordings look professional even in fast-paced or action-packed environments. While it may not match the smoothness of optical stabilization, it performs admirably for the price.
Waterproof Capabilities
The Akaso Brave 4 Pro really shines in its underwater capabilities. With the included waterproof case, the camera can be submerged up to 131 feet, making it a reliable companion for divers, snorkelers, and swimmers. The waterproof seals are well-made, ensuring no leaks or malfunctions during underwater adventures.
One thing to keep in mind, however, is that the remote control wristband is not waterproof. This means you won’t be able to use the remote underwater, which could be a downside for those wanting to control the camera remotely while diving.
Battery Life and Accessories
Battery life is always a concern with action cameras, especially when filming in high resolutions like 4K. The Akaso Brave 4 Pro comes with two rechargeable 1350mAh batteries, each capable of providing up to 90 minutes of continuous recording. While this is decent, carrying a charged spare is highly recommended for longer shoots.
In addition to the batteries, the camera comes with a range of accessories, including a USB dual charger, waterproof case, and multiple straps and mounts. These extras add considerable value, eliminating the need to purchase additional accessories separately.
Audio and External Mic Support
One area where the Akaso Brave 4 falls a bit short is its audio quality. The built-in microphone tends to pick up a lot of ambient noise, especially wind, and underwater audio is naturally muffled. For better sound, the camera supports external microphones—though you’ll need to purchase one separately, and it connects via the micro USB port.
Despite this, users who are primarily focused on video quality and don’t need high-end audio might find the camera’s performance acceptable.
App and Connectivity Issues
The Akaso Go app allows you to connect the camera to your smartphone via Wi-Fi, making it easy to transfer files and control the camera remotely. However, some users have reported issues with the app crashing or failing to connect properly. While the camera itself is easy to use without the app, those planning to rely heavily on the mobile interface may find it frustrating.
Who Is the Akaso Brave 4 Action Camera Perfect For?
The Akaso Brave 4 Pro is a versatile, budget-friendly action camera, but it’s not for everyone. Here’s who will benefit the most from it:
✅ Adventurers and travelers who want a reliable, waterproof camera for outdoor and underwater filming.
✅ Content creators on a budget who need decent 4K video and photo quality without breaking the bank.
✅ Casual users looking for a camera to document their activities, whether it’s hiking, biking, or snorkeling.
✅ Beginners who are new to action cameras and want a device that’s easy to use with plenty of accessories.
✅ Sports enthusiasts who need a compact, durable camera for capturing high-energy moments.
Who Might Want to Look Elsewhere?
The Akaso Brave 4 Pro has a lot to offer, but it may not meet the needs of everyone. Consider other options if:
✅ High-end audio quality is crucial for your projects, as the built-in mic can be lackluster, and the external mic is sold separately.
Customer Experiences with Akaso Brave 4 Action Camera
After researching numerous customer reviews, we’ve found both praise and constructive feedback about the Akaso Brave 4 Pro. Here’s a summary of what users have shared:
- ✅ Smooth underwater footage: Users loved the camera’s waterproof capabilities and how well it performed in deep dives, with no leaks or water damage.
- ✅ Budget-friendly price: Most users were impressed with the value for money, praising it as a cheaper alternative to GoPro that still delivered great video quality.
- ✅ Durable build: Users appreciated the robust construction, especially those using it in harsh conditions like hiking, snorkeling, and motorbiking.
- 🚫 Poor app performance: Many users found the Akaso Go app to be glitchy, with frequent connection issues that made remote control difficult.
- ✅ Impressive video quality: Several users were surprised by how clear and crisp the 4K video was, especially given the camera’s price point.
- 🚫 Audio issues: Some users found the audio to be a weak point, with external microphones being necessary for better sound capture.
Value Analysis of the Akaso Brave 4 Action Camera
For its price, the Akaso Brave 4 Pro offers an incredible range of features that make it a fantastic choice for both casual and serious users. Let’s break down its key strengths and a few considerations.
Key Strengths: Versatile, Durable
- Affordability: At just under $100, this action camera provides a wide array of features typically found in more expensive models, like 4K video, EIS stabilization, and waterproof capabilities.
- Durability: The camera’s build is tough enough for rugged environments, and the included waterproof case ensures it can withstand extreme conditions.
- Video Quality: The 4K30fps resolution is a standout for this price range, delivering high-quality visuals for both fast-paced sports and slow, scenic shots.
- Accessories: With the included dual charger, two batteries, remote wristband, and more, the value added by the accessories is significant, saving you the cost of purchasing these items separately.
Considerations: Audio and App Performance
- Audio: While the video quality excels, the audio could be better. The built-in microphone doesn’t capture sound as clearly as you might expect, and adding an external mic is recommended if audio is a priority.
- App Performance: The Akaso Go app has received mixed reviews due to connection issues and occasional crashes, which could be frustrating for users who rely heavily on the app for remote control.
The Akaso Brave 4 Action Camera is a good investment for budget-conscious adventurers who want reliable, high-quality footage without splurging on a GoPro. It’s a versatile tool for anyone looking to capture their outdoor experiences, with only minor drawbacks in terms of audio and app performance.
Final Remarks: Is the Akaso Brave 4 Action Camera Worth It?
The Akaso Brave 4 Pro is a cost-effective camera offering solid 4K video quality, durability, and useful accessories. Its performance and versatility make it a great choice for adventurers, though audio and app issues may bother some users.
FAQs – Akaso Brave 4 Review
What is the video quality of the Akaso Brave 4 Pro?
The Akaso Brave 4 Pro can record in 4K at 30fps, delivering sharp, vibrant footage perfect for capturing action-packed scenes. While it doesn’t reach the higher frame rates of more expensive cameras, it still offers excellent quality for casual and professional use, especially for its price.
How deep can you take the Akaso Brave 4 Pro underwater?
With the included waterproof case, the Akaso Brave 4 Pro is waterproof up to 131ft (40 meters), making it suitable for deep diving and snorkeling. The durable waterproof case ensures no leaks, allowing users to film underwater adventures without concern about damage.
Does the Akaso Brave 4 Pro come with accessories?
Yes, the Akaso Brave 4 Pro comes with a comprehensive set of accessories, including a USB dual charger, two 1350mAh batteries, a waterproof case, straps, and a remote control wristband. These accessories add significant value, eliminating the need for separate purchases.
How long do the batteries last on the Akaso Brave 4 Pro?
Each battery on the Akaso Brave 4 Pro can last up to 90 minutes of continuous recording. The camera comes with two rechargeable batteries, which allows for extended recording sessions, especially when both batteries are fully charged before use.
Is the Akaso Brave 4 Pro compatible with external microphones?
Yes, the Akaso Brave 4 Pro supports external microphones, though they must be purchased separately. This feature allows users to enhance audio quality, especially useful for vloggers or users capturing footage in noisy environments.
What type of memory card does the Akaso Brave 4 Pro use?
The Akaso Brave 4 Pro uses a Micro SD card, and it supports cards up to 64GB. It is recommended to use a high-speed U3 card for optimal video recording, especially when shooting in 4K resolution to avoid lag or corrupted files.
How does the dual-screen feature work on the Akaso Brave 4 Pro?
The Akaso Brave 4 Pro features a dual-display system with a 2-inch back touchscreen for adjusting settings and a vivid front display for framing selfies. This is especially useful for vloggers and content creators who need to see themselves while filming.
Can you control the Akaso Brave 4 Pro remotely?
Yes, the Akaso Brave 4 Pro can be controlled remotely using the included wristband or via the Akaso Go app. However, some users have reported issues with the app crashing or failing to connect, though the wristband works effectively for basic remote functions.
What image stabilization does the Akaso Brave 4 Pro offer?
The Akaso Brave 4 Pro is equipped with Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS) 2.0, featuring a 6-axis gyroscope that helps keep video footage smooth even in action-heavy environments. While it’s not as effective as optical stabilization, it works well for most casual uses.
Is the Akaso Brave 4 Pro suitable for professional use?
While the Akaso Brave 4 Pro offers great video quality and features like 4K resolution, it is more suited for casual users and budget-conscious content creators. Professionals might miss some higher-end features like superior image stabilization or richer audio capture that are available in more expensive models.
Akaso Brave 4 Review – Conclusion
The Akaso Brave 4 Pro is a powerful yet affordable action camera, offering 4K video, underwater capabilities, and a host of useful accessories at an unbeatable price. Its durable build and extensive features make it a top choice for adventurers, travelers, and content creators looking for a budget-friendly alternative to pricier models. While it may have minor drawbacks like audio quality and app issues, the overall performance and value make it a great investment for most users.