Action cameras are taking over the world of photography in a big way. We can strap these little gadgets onto our boards and helmets to capture personal experiences like never before. In an age of instant gratification, social media “likes” and follower counts, we want great footage that is easy to produce. The more exciting the shots, the more interest it will get.
There are lots of situations and sports where we can elevate the experience and record achievements via action cameras. For some, it is all about bringing a camera into the heart of fast-paced action. Skaters, surfers, and bikers can create first-person shots with ease. Others take these sports cameras where the average cameraman would fear to tread. This could mean a jump from a plane or abseiling from a building.
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With so many brands vying for the title of best action camera 2019, it is no surprise that the biggest names are getting competitive. These cameras are getting smarter and more diverse in terms of their features. Products need that unique selling point that stand out from the crowd. A new lens, improved EIS or stable 4K may do the trick. We are also sure to see smaller, compact devices of a higher quality.
Costs really can vary between different action cameras. At one end of the scale, we have those in the hundreds of dollars from massive names, such as the golden child that is the GoPRO. At the other, there are some cheap starter models that you can pick up for the price of some take-out and a beer.
The cheapest don’t have the same amount of features or the same quality. The frame rates are often slower, the angles narrower and the audio more distorted. Brands tend to focus on vital priorities. This means the ease of use for the user, a reliable system at a fair frame rate and some basic mounting accessories. Specifications generally improve the further up the price scale you go.
However, that doesn’t mean that there aren’t anomalies. There are some budget models with a surprising performance and range of accessories.
Ignoring the fact that cost is a major issue here, there are other aspects to the best actions cameras that you should consider. Many buyers will focus on the quality of the video and the modes available. I understand why, as we all want a good final product, even in a cheaper system. Check the pixels, the resolution and the different settings in the specification. You may also want to see what the controls are like to see how easy it is to switch between these modes.
Reliable software is important, but I also take the time to look at the hardware. Does this cute little affordable camera have the build and waterproofing to handle your needs? How many accessories and extra features are included for the price. I tend to focus on additional batteries – as this can be a life-saver – and the range of mounting hardware. Speaking of batteries, check the average lifespan of the model before you buy.
Finally, look at the connectivity situation. Is this a pretty basic model with a simple HDMI cable? Or, can you stream between devices via WiFi? Some offer access to remote and compatible apps, but it also helps to read reviews on just how reliable they are. This is why I am here to here. I have some neutral reviews of my experiences and understanding of these affordable action cameras.
This system is incredibly affordable when we consider all the features and accessories that come with it. This is the lowest priced item here – unless your strike gold in a sale with one of the other options. In fact, you might look twice to be sure that there is actually a camera involved, and not just a case or something. There is a camera and it offers a 12mp camera for stills as well as video recording. There are also mounting accessories for helmets and boards to help you get started. The additional 900mah rechargeable battery is a nice touch too.
Is this camera a little too cheap and cheerful to be included in this guide?
Pros:
1) The color choices that are available.
2) The waterproofing.
3) It is pretty easy to use with the different controls and the display
Cons:
1) There are some misconceptions about the video
2) Small details can affect the quality
It is a little superficial to talk about colors and the look of a camera. However, the one I tested came in a bright yellow and people starting cooing over it, so apparently, this is a selling point. I was more interested in the fact that the camera was easy to use. The controls and the display are as user-friendly as they come. This helps to support my theory that this was made as a beginner’s model/starter kit device. This is where you come to learn the ropes before upgrading to something better.
Then there are the downsides of turning to this low-end, “pretty” system. Let’s start with the elephant in the room and that claim of 1080p video capture. It didn’t look that way to us when we looked at our footage and other buyers feel the same way.
Perhaps there is some cheat with the frame rates or something where you can mess with the resolution? There are also a couple of additional factors that can affect the quality of the footage. One is the waterproof case, which affects the clarity of the lens. There is also a dodgy zoom function that can distort the image.
It is hard to knock a product at this end of the price range. There are flaws in the design and limitations to the video capture. Yet, we really shouldn’t expect that much from a system of this value. It is a great little starter kit for those that want to get a taste for action cameras.
This is a model that can come at a pretty decent price when you find the right deals. In fact, it is a steal at the right time because there is a lot here for the money paid. There are certain boxes that I need to tick when looking for a good action camera.
The quality of the image is a start, and this one has 4K video capabilities and a 12mp camera for stills. Then it has to be waterproof for surfing and snorkeling, and this one is up to 30m. Then there is the ease of use.
Does this camera tick all the right boxes for everyone?
Pros:
1) wrist remote control
2) Decent battery life of 90 minutes
3) Some great images in both the video and still modes
Cons:
1) couldn’t set a date or accurate time stamps.
2) Others have experienced stuttering in the video feeds
Wearables are still in right? There are certainly still plenty of fit bands and smartwatches out there. Well, this wrist remote definitely makes things a lot easier when setting up shots and modes. I have to say that this hasn’t been the case with all of the products that I have tried for this cheap action camera guide. Some wearable remotes are just cheap add-ons that get a bit frustrating. I was also happy with the battery life – even when shooting on 1080p. This lifespan is fair and better than many high-end products, such as GoPROs.
Now, I will admit that the information here on the negative side has been passed on. I had no problems while working this thing on the board. But, I was working with an editor friend that started talking about the dates and time stamps on the footage – or more importantly the lack of them. We couldn’t figure this out. There are also users that have experienced problems with stuttering at the start of their feeds when transferring file. We learned this when trying to find answers to the date stamp issue.
It seems as though the video editors will have a more negative response to this system than the photographer. There is a lot going on here to help us take great shots with ease, especially for watersports. Still, there is some room for improvement in the file transfers.
Straight away, the manufacturers at DBPOWER are keen to highlight what this system has that other products don’t. This includes the gyroscope and anti-shaking devices for a smooth video capture, the diving mode, and the special effects. There are some great features here that are designed to push this model above the competition, without forcing people to pay too much for the privilege.
What is it about this camera that makes it so appealing to those after a cheaper model?
Pros:
1) The accessories that come with it
2) 170-degree ultra wide-angle lens
3) Easy to use and great instructions
Cons:
1) Sound issues
2) Battery life.
Again, there is a lot to enjoy with this product. There is great attention to detail in the package with the mounting hardware, cleaning cloth, stickers, cables and extra batteries. Also, I would much rather get stuck in and figure things out as I go with these cameras. I prefer to rely on a blend of previous experience, intuition, and dumb luck. Thankfully, this camera was made for people like me. It is user-friendly and easy to understand, and I’m not the only one who thinks so.
As I mentioned, sound issues are common with these products. Here there is an issue that I need to highlight. I, and many others have noticed that there is a low quality without the case, and then non-existent sound with the case. The problem here is that this may encourage users to ditch the case. Don’t do this!
Usually, when we talk about battery life issues in cameras there is a simple problem – the lifespan is far too short. Here the issue is more about the inconsistency. The battery life tends to vary depending on the mode used. This means that if you get used to a having a certain time frame while out on your board, you may find that this is cut when you try a new feature.
If the sound is completely essential, this isn’t for you. There are too many risks involved. Otherwise, it is possible to get a decent video with minimal fuss. You should be installed and ready to go in no time at all. Once you are, the controls are a piece of cake.
So apparently DBPOWER aren’t alone in seeing the potential of the 170-degree wide angle lens. Crosstour has also added this function to help users get the most from their shots. Yet, it isn’t this angle that is the most interesting aspect to this system. Instead, it is the range of different functions that are in offer. It seems that this is another in the line of starter systems for those that don’t quite know what they want yet.
Does this affordable Crosstour camera match up to other cheap action cameras in this guide?
Pros:
1) the different functions to diversify the user experience.
2) The remarkably low cost for the quality of the video.
3) A fair battery life of 90 minutes. As you will see from the different cameras in this guide, 90 is a good average for something so low-cost.
Cons:
1) there is a journey of discovery here.
2) Issues with the HDMI cable
There are plenty of options and features to try with this system. This means that this is more than just a sports camera to attach to a helmet or board. There are users that have great results after using this as a dashcam. There is also praise for the fisheye lens. Whatever the function, you should find that it creates some decent footage to be proud of.
There is a learning curve here. Now, this can be as much a pro or con here depending on your personal needs. Personally, I quite enjoyed messing around with this and realizing that there were “hidden” tricks up its sleeves. I can see why some people would prefer everything laid out before them before they start. Then there is the cable. There is always a jolt to the stomach when you plug the camera into a device and the images you see don’t match those you recorded. Did the camera mess up, is there a computer error, or us the cable just unreliable? My guess here is that the answer is the latter.
The exploratory nature of this camera is the deal breaker here. This isn’t as much of a plug-n-play model as some of the products above. Yet, the diversity and learning experience can benefit new users. This is a great tool for those starting to learn their craft. It could help you focus on a discipline before you upgrade.
Here we come back to that 4k video capture, but we don’t see much of an increase in price. In fact, the specification is oddly high-tech and appealing for something so affordable. There is the ability to capture 4k and 1080p video, the 16mp camera, the WiFi connectivity and the range of accessories. It is the sort of model that stands out as much for its long features list as its good looks.
Why did I include this affordable Dragon Touch product on this list?
Pros:
1) the capabilities of the camera
2) there is waterproofing up to 30m – not just for land-based use.
3) The accessories should keep you entertained for a while
Cons:
1) the poor sound quality
2) the remote control
There is a lot going on with this system and I found that it was pretty easy to adapt the shots and play with the settings. There is a nice slow motion setting that is great for some dramatic footage out on the waves. Many users will also appreciate the time lapse, drama shot and driving modes. You can also adjust the exposure and white balance as needed. The range of accessories is also a nice touch here.
There are two 1050mAh batteries, so you can keep one charged up at all times and keep on playing with those different shots. There are also plenty of mounting accessories.
The negative features with this model aren’t actually all that bad when you add them up. But, there are two issues here that can be pretty frustrating. The sound quality is something I am going to mention a lot with these cheaper cameras because it is so rare that brands get this right. The audio is always an afterthought.
With this Dragon Touch Camera, I have even read about people stuffing cotton wool into the camera case to limit wind noise. Then there is the remote control. Remotes are always good in practice. But, I ended up throwing this one at a cohort of mine to get them to figure it out. There was too much time wasted with an illogical system when I could have been recording.
As long as you can figure out that remote – or simply do without it – you should find that this system offers plenty of great features for many applications. The modes and replaceable batteries mean you can have fun for hours here.
This option is a great example of a brand that wants to find that middle ground between affordability and high value. There are some options below that look great on the surface but soon show their limitations. Here the camera ticks a lot of boxes in terms of the hardware, software, and accessories. It is not flawless, but the flaws are pretty minimal compared to some other devices.
Why did I add this Ultra HD system into this guide?
Pros:
1) lots of accessories to help you set up your shots
2) Great video options for different applications
3) A choice of both 4k video and a 12mp camera for stills
Cons:
1) “a longer battery life” – compared to who?
2) Android users may have a tougher time than iOS users.
Let’s start with all of those accessories. There is a bit of a competition between these top brands over who can provide the very best package of accessories. This is fine as far as I am concerned as long as they all work.
Here I received the remove, waterproof case, tethers, cable, cleaning cloth and a ton of mounting options. Don’t underestimate the value of good cleaning cloth when you use these action cameras often enough. On a related note, that waterproof case can survive depths of 98 feet.
So, onto the negatives that I want to discuss. First of all, I should point out that the battery life here isn’t terrible. 70 minutes isn’t the worst around. The problem is that I have tested out products with longer lifespans of 90 minutes or more, and that extra 10 minutes can make a big difference when trying for the perfect shot. So, a longer battery life compared to who? This sales pitch might be a little misleading for some first-time users. Then there are those compatibility issues with Android. I’m not sure if this is a true bug, as the brand seem aware of the issue. Don’t expect sound when playing video on Android devices. This was a bit of a shock in my test run, but not the end of the world.
Android users may have to be a little more cautious about errors and limits to the playback, but almost everyone can enjoy a user-friendly system. There is definitely great value for money here with the range of features and the quality of the footage.
There is an element to the sales pitch for this camera that highlights its intended purpose pretty well. That is the invitation to “share your story instantly”. There is a live streaming function on this camera that is perfect for all those that want to impress their Facebook friends in real time. Apparently, it isn’t enough now to create a good video, edit it over the weekend and take time over your craft. Personal feelings aside, I can see why this would appeal to people. The other features in the specification help too.
Does this product have enough going for it to allow it to compare with other cheap action cameras?
Pros:
1) Full HD 4K video.
2) Plenty of mounting options
3) Connectivity.
Cons:
1) memory card issues
2) a lack of instructions
Starting with the benefits, I need to talk a little more about the connectivity options. The live streaming function is fine and there is the added bonus of a WiFi signal of 33ft. I also liked that fact that there is also an HDMI cable for those times where the signal gets a little unreliable. Another nice touch here in the use of the tripod as part of the mounting accessories.
There is the sense that the designers put some real thought into this system. As for the quality of the video and images, there isn’t enough to say about the system that stands out. It does the job well enough for those after that perfect real-time video, rather than something a little more cineographic.
However, there are issues with this system. I found it difficult to delete files straight on the card from the camera itself. This is a must when working out on the water. I want to free up space and remove shots I know are failures. An added issue here is that I couldn’t see how many spaces were actually left.
Other users have picked up on the fact that the manual for this system is a little limited. It gets you so far and then makes you figure out the rest for yourself. This isn’t ideal for first-time users.
This is another product that isn’t great for all those that have a short fuse and want everything to be hassle-free. The memory card issues was a major downside. Yet, there are some nice features and you do get plenty for the price paid.
I like to throw some wildcards into the mix in these guides to offer a broader representation of what is around. Sometimes you strike some unexpected sources of gold when testing out the weirder options.
This camera is one that many consumers would pass by. It is a primitive looking thing with the smallest price tag that you can imagine. But, looks can be deceiving with the best action cameras. There are aspects to this camera that are much better than I suspected. Still, there are downsides that weren’t too hard to predict.
Can this odd looking Astak camera really compete with the other models here?
Pros:
1) The size.
2) The photographic abilities.
3) The extra accessories.
Cons:
1) The look.
2) Limitations on quality.
Let’s start with all of the plus points that this Astak camera offers. The small size has its benefits when trying for a compact set up on a board or helmet. The last thing we need is a bulky, heavy camera weighing us down. The downside to the size is that the LCD screen is one of the smallest at 1.5’’, which means that it is not great for bigger fingers. But, there is still room for a 170-degree wide angle lens. The images are great for the price paid, and I have read that it handles low light situations well too. We were also surprised to find that this comes with an 8GB memory card to get us started.
However, you can only get so much for your money from a model this cheap. I tried out the waterproofing capabilities and I am not convinced that it will hold up on long snorkeling trips. The image quality is fine for basic needs but doesn’t compare to some of the other cameras in this guide.
As I say, none of this is anything that I should be surprised about. I laughed when I was handed this model to test out because it looked like a prototype on an unfinished mode. Perhaps that is how we should look at it – as something with the potential to become a great system.
Only to those on the smallest of budgets that really don’t care about a user-friendly display or the look of the device. With some tweaks here and there, it could be a more appealing choice. Still, they would undoubtedly increase the price by that point.
First impressions of the design of this camera are pretty good, and not just because the last model was such a primitive one. This camera has the clean lines and boxy shape that many users love. In fact, the shape and textural look are reminiscent of the YI models that many use as GoPRO alternatives. The good news here is that this doesn’t have the same price tag as those fancier cameras. This is much more affordable for those just starting out.
How does this really compare to YI cameras and other models?
Pros:
1) the look.
2) lots of different modes to play with.
3) decent underwater capabilities.
Cons:
1) the specification doesn’t compare to the YI range, or to some other products in this guide.
2) more sound issues.
This camera can be used in different situations to help new users get to grips with the basics. The waterproof casing allows for submersion up to 30m. There are also enough different modes on the camera for sports, driving and other applications. Furthermore, users can employ continuous shooting or time-lapse to improve their footage. This is all great for those that want to experiment with the photography, and not just capture the action.
There are some clear limitations in what this camera can offer based on its specification. The camera for still shots is only 5mp, so doesn’t have the same clarity. The wide angle lens they are keen to promote does enough at 120 degrees, but its the 170 degrees of other systems here. As for the sound, there are two problems here. I, and many others continue to have the same issues of the sound quality on the final footage. But, this is something I have learned to deal with on these cheaper products. What is more annoying for me is the lack of that helpful beep that usually sounds when the camera takes a photo. It is something that we are accustomed too after years of playing with digital cameras. It shouldn’t be too hard to let this camera do the same.
I have spent some time comparing this to the similar looking YI cameras to show what you can get from a mid-range model. The answer is that this holds up pretty well, even with a slightly weaker specification. This is, therefore, an interesting alternative for those on a budget.
This O RLY camera is another model that promises to pack everything that videographers are looking for into one tiny, affordable camera. Naturally, I had to give this one a try to see if it really does everything claimed. Key promises here include the waterproofing capabilities, the WiFi connection, the quality of the video and the clear display. It sounds like a lot for a cheap action camera, but it delivered in many areas.
Why have I included this O RLY camera in this guide?
Pros:
1) the thought that has gone into the waterproofing.
2) the quality of the display.
3) the shooting options.
Cons:
1) sound problems – as usual
2) some moments where the system gets a little temperamental
First of all, I would like to highlight the waterproofing in this camera. There are many cameras that offer a basic case to allow the user to head a short distance underwater. Many of these cheaper models inevitably break or develop faults. This kit comes with a second case, in a different color. This is a nice backup. As for the footage and photos, there is a lot to play around with here.
The built-in gyroscope does a decent job of stabilizing the images on the 1080p video and there are options for slow motion and dash cams. The 170 wide angle lens helps too and it all looks great on the liquid crystal display.
There are some people that have had a much worse experience with this system than I have. Some struggled to get it to follow commands and leave the default settings. This is rare, and certainly not my experience. I was impressed and found that the camera was compliant in all but one area – the memory card.
For some reason, it didn’t always want to acknowledge that there was on in the camera at all. If I had been playing with this camera for a longer time, I could see this being a big frustration. It is no fun fiddling with the hardware when time is limited for that perfect shot.
As long as you don’t have a short fuse, and can handle those occasional temperamental fits, you could find that this is a good fit. There is some nice attention to detail here where it counts the most.
The Polaroid camera seems to come and go in waves of popularity. There was the old, retro version with the bulky body and instant photos from a time when we didn’t have digital tech. Then Instagram persuaded everyone to add old filters to photos and made us long for a new version of the classic. Now it seems that Polaroid has diversified with action cameras.
How does this Polaroid camera compare to other action cameras in this guide?
Pros:
1) An upgrade on a previous version.
2) A decent battery life of 90 minutes.
3) The design
Cons:
1) not WiFi compatible
2) no mounting accessories.
This is apparently the “funnest, cutest” little action camera around, according to Polaroid themselves. This is perhaps a little overblown – and I’m not sure that funnest is even a word – but there is no doubt that this is an attractive option with the rainbow stripe and cube design. If you are familiar with Polaroids previous attempts, you may be happy to know that this is the “new improved” Act II version”.
This means new tech for image stabilization, low light photography and better sound recording. Now, the latter will pique the interest of many keen videographers after all the complaints made about other models in this guide. The sound is better here than in many of the lower-grade action camera that I have reviewed.
With the downsides, we need to start with the issue of WiFi compatibility. This shouldn’t be a big surprise. For starters, modern connectivity was never a big part of the brand. Secondly, they are kind enough to warn us in the specification. This means no quick streaming or the same instant gratification as some other Polaroid products.
This could limit the appeal for those that buy this on a nostalgia trip. The bigger issue for me was the lack of mounting accessories. I have come to expect at least a few basic parts with these cheaper kits. Here we have to increase the cost by buying our own.
Absolutely – but only for the right user. On a personal level, it is too focused on looks and nostalgia to be of worth as a sports camera. Others are sure to enjoy the photography features and the quality of the camera. If nothing else, this sort of product keeps the Polaroid name going in an interesting way.
There is something in the sales pitch for this product that may put quite a few people off. The brand talks about this as a kid’s video camera. The upside to this is the idea that it should be very easy to use and offer some fun features to play around with. The downside is that it suggests that there isn’t enough going on here to keep adults happy. I tried it out from the mindset of an adult and through my inner child’s eye and can see benefits from both perspectives.
Why have I added this YELIN system into this guide?
Pros:
1) Long battery life.
2)Can be used in lots of different applications.
3)Decent enough specification for first-time users.
Cons:
1) A little too jittery for my liking
2) Some issues with picture clarity
There is no doubt that many kids and adults will appreciate the functions here and the ability to test this out on boards, bikes and during other daring pursuits. The additional mounting apparatus means that users are free to roam as they choose and the waterproof case means plenty of underwater adventures. My personal highlight here is the battery life.
Not only are there two batteries in this kit, so you can keep cycling through them, there is a maximum battery life of 3 hours. This is twice as long as some of the best models in this guide and remarkable for a model at this price point.
As this is a starter model for a younger audience, there are some limitations to the specification and omissions where kids wouldn’t really know the difference. For example, I found that the feed was a little too jittery even when I wasn’t shaking it around that much. The clarity of the images is fine for those with little photographic experience – again children, not adults like me – but it is still fair for the price paid. No-one is going to win any sort of photographic award using this camera, but that really is the point of this product.
When we consider the audience, it is hard to mention many other problems. I might be a little pickier if this were a more high-end camera. But, there is plenty here to entertain that younger target audience. Kids deserve their own action camera too – it stops them wrecking ours when they play too roughly.
There is a strong focus here on the idea of the adaptability of this camera. Users are encouraged to use this is a wide range of situations thanks to the simple mounting accessories and the adjustable resolution on the camera. The brand talk about the potential for climbing, Xsports and Parkour because they see this as more of a helmet camera. Still, the features on offer mean that there is great potential for other applications.
Why have I included this helmet cam in this list of affordable action cameras?
Pros:
1) the quality of the camera.
2) the clarity of the display.
3) the Wifi connectivity.
Cons:
1) there were some problems in low light conditions.
2) it doesn’t stick to all helmets.
Whatever application you choose to use this for, you will find that you can get a pretty good image from the HD 1080p video and the 12mp camera. The addition of the 170 wide angle lens and clear display were additional benefits during my trips out on the water. On that note, this is another waterproof option up to 30m.
There is great potential here for all sorts of users because of the quality of the camera and the images produced. The specification means that this could work as a dash-cam, a biker’s camera or anything else that you want to try. The stability and reliability also means that users shouldn’t be afraid to put this through its paces
There are some issues with this camera that we can’t ignore. Some cameras are better than others when it comes to low light capabilities. This is something that I like to test out because you never know when you might get a good evening on the water and some great sunsets. This camera couldn’t handle the lack of light as well as others in this guide. I have also heard that there have been issues with motorcycle helmets. This isn’t something I would have realized myself, but apparently, this helmet-friendly mount isn’t for every type of helmet.
This system is still recommendable – even with that possible mounting issues. This is one application where it fails, but there are many more where this system can prove its worth. The quality of the tech and images offer a good introduction to the possibilities of actions cameras. Therefore, this could be a stepping stone towards better products.
As we have seen with the different cameras across this guide, there are different products with different aims. Some cater to a wider audience with mass appeal. Others target a smaller niche due to certain elements of their specification. I would say that this SOOCOO camera is one of those in the latter category. There is a fairly broad specification, yet there is also a desire to help users with their underwater shots. Underwater capabilities always stand out to me, so I was keen to give this a test run.
Does this system hold up to the expectations of these user-friendly action cameras?
Pros:
1) some decent pictures underwater.
2) a good waterproof case.
3) plenty of mounting options.
Cons:
1) battery life issues.
2) an annoying app
A quick look at people photographs after using this camera shows that this really is built with underwater use in mind. There is a surprising level of clarity to the images and a realistic color within the subjects. This isn’t always the case with this sort of low-end product.
This means that this system will be of great interest to those that like to snorkel, as well as those that simply want an affordable underwater camera to take on their summer holidays. There is also a nice range of mounting options with this system that ensure that we can all use it with ease. This means helmets, sticks and lots of other options.
I want to make sure that prospective buyers are aware of a potential problem with the battery life here. There are some eye-catching promises about the long battery life of “about” 120 minutes on full charge. The word about is the brand’s insurance clause here. It can be 120 on the most basic functions. If you record on the highest 1080p resolution with the anti-shake device switched on then it will be much lower.
Obviously, this is what most users will be doing, so the 120-minute claim is a bit of a cheat. I’m also glad I didn’t download the app because I have seen reports about it deleting files from the SD card after transfer and being a bit of a pain to use.
If we ignore that problem with the battery life and the sales claims, there is still a lot here to make this camera recommendable. This isn’t the most high-end system, but it still offers great options for underwater photography. The ease of use also means that holidaymakers will get a lot from this.
There are some sports cameras that seem to exist to provide a lesser version of something a lot more familiar. We can look at products like the GoPRO and wish that we had that sort of disposable income to throw at a model like that. Then we can turn to a cheaper alternative like this and see that there is still potential with a lighter specification. I admire the way that the company tries to tick plenty of boxes and offer key selling points, without overloading buyers with stats and pointless features.
What did we like when we tested out this cheaper sports camera?
1) the panoramic field of vision
2) the underwater capabilities
3) the connection to the remote
Cons:
1) the lack of instructions is a big stumbling block here.
2) choppy footage.
There is a great panoramic field of vision on this camera with the 170-degree wide angle lens and the clarity of the photos. This camera also seemed to cope with the underwater shots pretty well too. I was also impressed with the quality of the remote. As you have seen in these reviews for cheap action cameras, the remote controls aren’t always up to the job. This one was a pleasant surprise because it responded to the system pretty well. There is often a lag time between the call and response, and we didn’t see that here.
Well, the first problem that I need to mention was obvious straight away – all the instructions were in Chinese. This wasn’t a problem for me because I could use some prior experience and trial and error to get the images I wanted. Still, I can see some first-timers panicking a little with this. Another thing that I have noticed, which is backed up by other users, is that this tends to chop up longer videos so you can’t always have a long, fluid stream of action. This isn’t the only camera in this lower end of the price scale to do this. You may have to plan ahead with your shots and editing.
There are some clear benefits to this system for those that want a good introduction to these cheaper action cameras. If the company changed the instruction manual then it would be far easier for me to leave a glowing recommendation. As it is, there is enough here for those with the time and patience to learn the ropes.
This final model is one that is a little more pricey – about twice that of the cheapest systems in this guide. Yet, there are a few clear reasons for this price increase. The one that probably stands out the most to anyone with experience with these cameras is the inclusion of a case. This is a rarity with these cheaper action cameras. In fact, there are lots of more expensive options that I have tried that don’t have this solution either! The case is solid enough to take a few hits, has designated compartments for all the tech and is lightweight.
How does this final model compare to others that we have mentioned in this guide?
Pros:
1) the case
2) the quality of the camera
3) the shock proofing.
Cons:
1) the choppy recording
2) connectivity issues with iPhone.
Starting with this positive points, the specification is pretty decent for an affordable camera such as this. The many selling points may be the case, but there are still plenty of helpful features that you will want to protect. This is a 12mp camera with the option of 1080P and a 170-degree wide-angle lens.
This lens has fish eye capabilities and the system has different shooting modes. I was happy with most of the images I captured, especially in regard to the stability. It seems that the additional shock-proofing does pay off.
Before, we talked about the perils facing Android users when trying to sync their apps and devices up to certain cameras. Well, here it is the turn of the iPhone user. For some reason, the iPhone and this Legazone camera don’t like talking to each other. It is difficult to get them to maintain a conversation long enough for any professional work. I could shrug this off when testing out the full capabilities with my team because we knew that this was just a trial. But, I could see other users having a few issues with this in the long run. There are also reports of some users experiencing 10-minute bursts of video, so be careful with longer streams.
I have to offer a word of caution to any iPhone users keen to use this camera for their video editing and other needs. It might be a bit too frustrating. But, there is still enough here with the design, hardware and video capture to help many people get the shot that they are after. There is great potential in this system for the right user.