Action cameras, when designed properly, should live up to their name. Some photographers and videographers are happy to take a more passive approach to their art. They can capture footage and images from the sidelines while others perform their sports and stunts. Action cameras are devices that become part of that sport or stunt. They follow the actions of the individual for a unique perspective. Users are both cameraman and performer at the exact same time.
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There are lots of potential applications for these action cameras. Some people will use them in a more hands-on situation. I, along with other surfers, divers and watersports enthusiasts, use them to capture first-person footage of waves and underwater exploration.
They are a great way to capture the moment from that unique perspective. We can go over the footage to preserve the memory or learn from mistakes. Those that are into video editing can take this further with vlogging and YouTube videos. The shape and function of the action camera mean that they are also great for those that crave a little more adrenaline in their lives. This means base jumpers, sky divers and any other new craze I’m yet to hear about.
Alternatively, you might want to attach your action camera to a drone. Aerial videography is a growing pastime for those that learn to fly. It takes a lot of skill in the air – and the editing room – but the right action camera can help.
Honestly, the brand name has a lot to do with it over the actual cameras and products. There are some brand names that become synonymous with the object. For example, if your friend introduces you to their robot cleaning buddy, you are compelled to call it Roomba. Yet, not all robot vacuums are Roombas. It is a similar situation with the GoPRO. Any small camera mounted to a helmet that captures sports footage is almost automatically called a GoPRO – even if it comes from another brand.
GoPRO set the standard on high-end action cameras by providing compact, user-friendly systems that almost anyone could use. They are so easy to set up and apply to different settings that we came to rely upon them. As the models improved and they upgraded the tech, we saw that we could achieve some great stills and video footage with these products. The connectivity to smart devices, simple controls, and other technical details help too.
Well, the most obvious issue here has to be the cost. Many of us adrenaline junkies will wince a little a the price of these things. We know that they are meant to be the absolute best option available when it comes to activity cameras – which is why we tend to give in and cough up the money.
But, isn’t it better to save some money on an equally impressive system and use those savings on other equipment? That high cost is a bigger issue when we consider the fact that any camera can fail, and any cameraman can fall off their bike/board/mode of transport of choice.
GoPROs are great in the right situations – and when we can afford them. But, they are not the only option out there. We don’t have to be slaves to the name when other brands can help us capture our adventurers on film. The following 6 action cameras are alternatives that I recommend. They aren’t flawless, but they do have plenty of positive features.
I want to talk about this VanTop Action Camera first because of that idea I mentioned about the costs of the GoPRO. I am not alone in thinking that the price of this model is more than fair for the features.
The design, controls, footage and software all combine to create something that rivals that produced by a GoPRO. Obviously, prices will vary depending on the retailer, so we may all get a slightly different bargain. Still, it isn’t unheard of to see this going for under $100. That’s a big saving compared to the GoPro.
So what do we get with this VanTop Moment 4 4K system that makes it comparable with the GoPRO?
Pros:
1) The quality of the Electronic Image Stabilization.
2) The user-friendly touchscreen controls for remote controls
3) The low-light modes mean you can capture footage late into the day
Cons:
1) The lack of instructions in the manual
2) Potential connectivity issues.
The benefits of this camera are clear from the software and quality of the footage. There are two main features that stand out for me. First of all, I am impressed with the quality of the EIS. There are many cheaper cameras that still suffer from tremors even though they claim to have this.
Here there was a smooth, clear image in both the 20mp image capture and the 4K video. This stability and the low-light image capture were both ideal for shooting the waves on evening surfing sessions. I was also pleased with the design and functionality of the remote control element. You can control this camera via a touchscreen remote. The realtime view is great for an accurate representation of what the camera sees. The 2.4 inch screen is just the right size too.
The downside here is that while this claims to be wonderfully intuitive and user-friendly, there is a limit. There were times where I lost a couple of good shots because the controls weren’t quite as I expected. I also had a couple of moments where it wouldn’t sync with my phone. I’m not the sort of person that likes studying manuals when I can learn on the job. But, I did have to spend an evening deciphering the instructions. On that note, those instructions could be a little clearer.
There are some annoying flaws to this model that aren’t helped by the issues with the manual. There are times when you will find yourself cursing this in annoyance, but also those where you curse from achievement. Hopefully, the ratio remains in the favor of the latter.
This Campark model struck more of a chord with me because of its waterproofing and underwater capabilities. Sometimes I deliberately want to film underwater as I dive different bays (other times I can’t help but send the camera underwater in a wipeout). Either way, I need a camera that I can rely upon. This model has a completely waterproof case and is safe up to depths of 30 meters – more than enough for a little light snorkeling.
What else about this Campark Waterproof Action Camera makes it a worthy substitute for a GoPRO?
Pros:
1) There are lots of different modes that you can switch between for interesting footage.
2) The different lens angles.
3) This is another low-cost option compared to those pricer GoPROs
Cons:
1) Why doesn’t the accessories bundle include a memory card?
2) The battery can cut out after 20 minutes.
There are a lot of factors with the specification and design that are comparable with the product above. The EIS, remote control and sharpness of the image are all great. One area where this option stands out a little more is the range of modes. The underwater mode is a great starting point. There are also options for cars and special time-lapse and motion detection modes. This means plenty for budding documentary makers to play around with. Another nice touch here is the use of different lens angles. You can switch out from standard shot to either narrow or wide lens. Again, it is all about adding some diversity to the system.
As for the downsides, there isn’t too much to complain about with this system. It handles all the different functions well and the connectivity is decent too. One thing I will say is that a memory card would be nice. We all want to collect a ton of footage and images here, so it wouldn’t have killed them to throw a card into that accessories bundle. I do recommend having a spare, charged battery on hand while on location. This camera will eat through the battery in around 20 minutes, so be prepared!
A recommendation here ultimately depends on the purpose behind buying the camera. Those 20-minute bursts of filming are manageable in the right setting, but frustrating when you’re out in the ocean or up a cliff. The price and viewing angle do a lot to keep this model in contention.
The initial appeal of this camera comes from the all-in-one design in this light, compact system. It looks great – the sort of model you would show off to other riders. The small body holds the lens, battery container, SD card holder and an integrated 2-inch touchscreen. In fact, it looks a lot more like a point-and-shoot camera than an action camera. Still, it promises great video capture in 1080p and connections to smart devices.
Why is this YI Lite Action Camera so appealing as an alternative to the GoPRO?
Pros:
1) The battery life is better than the average
2) The video functions allow for some impressive results.
3) It is a nice looking, slim camera – if looks are important.
Cons:
1) Limited functionality compared to some of the models above
2) DONT use it without its case
The battery life is one of the key selling points here. With the Campark option above I found that I always had one eye on the battery life, knowing that time was limited. This isn’t ideal when you’re trying to stay in the moment on a great wave.
Here I actually forgot about it because this little camera just kept on going. Note that the best that I have managed with an actual GoPRO is an hour. This baby kept up with me for the whole afternoon. This battery life is great for shooting plenty of high-quality footage with that 4K capability.
While this camera does offer many of the features that we come to expect, the capabilities are a little limited. The image stabilization is fine, but nothing extraordinary. The image quality is fine, but nothing to brag about. This is a 16mp camera, not 20mp, and this can make a difference.
Others have also noted the lack of functions, such as the inability to zoom. I would also like to add that if you do use this in high-speed, action-packed scenarios, please use the case. The build of the camera seems a little flimsy to me and I’m not sure it would take a big hit.
There are definite flaws in the build of this model, so you need to proceed with some caution. Still, that battery life exceeds even the GoPRO itself. This alone means that this appealing camera is a worthwhile alternative.
At this point, the products have begun to jump up a tiny bit in price. This isn’t that big an issue with this AKASO camera because of the small margin and the features that are on offer. One of the reasons for this small increase in price has to be the amount of accessories that come with the camera. The addition of 2 rechargeable 1100mAh batteries, the remote control wristband, and other details definitely adds value for money.
What can this AKASO V50 Pro offer to those that don’t want a GoPRO?
Pros:
1) The image stabilization
2) The range of accessories in the box
3) The connectivity
Cons:
1) The quality of the waterproof case
2) The image quality compared to the GoPRO series.
The image stabilization system is one of the stand-out features in the specification for this product. It is certainly something that I was impressed with during my on trial run. This EIS uses a 6-axis gyroscope to improve the sensitivity to movement and shakes.
This can make a big difference when dealing with different angles and motions on a board or while wearing a helmet. It is also really easy to transfer images to other devices through the HDMI port, WiFi and compatible iSmart Pro+ app.
Part of the point of this guide is to compare these products to GoPRO cameras, which means we hit a problem with this AKASO system. A side by side comparison of the clarity and overall quality of the images shows that the AKASO can’t quite compete.
There are also some people that have felt let down by the sound quality. A bigger issue for me is the quality of the waterproof case. There is a case on this camera that should keep it safe in the water. I found that the latches just weren’t strong enough – and I was not the only one.
The issues with the quality of the images are only a problem for those too used to the GoPRO. The quality is fine and the image stabilization and connectivity add to the appeal. The issue with the latches is a problem that I am sure the brand can fix in a next-gen model.
Yes, I have already talked about a YI model in this guide. Here I want to offer a comparison with another product I have had the pleasure of testing out. This YI Sports model takes the specification up a level – or two – and offers some interesting features.
It does so while retaining that cure, compact design we saw above. A key difference here is that it also does so while increasing the price tag significantly. If you want these flashy new features, you have to pay for them.
Is this a better GoPRO alternative than the YI Lite?
Pros:
1) The clarity of the display
2) The quality of the video capture
3) Raw image capture and other little details that photographers love
Cons:
1) That big jump in price
2) The short battery life compared to the VI Lite.
Starting with those pros, the brand claim that this is packed with features. It is hard to argue when I consider all the different video and photo options available. There is live streaming on the 4k video, which is enhanced by the strong EIS.
There is also raw image capture for the 12mp camera. One of the more quirky features is the voice control element – because, apparently, we can command almost any piece of technology these days.
The 2.2-inch touchscreen is also really nice with a clearer display and more responsive control than the other YI camera. This was fun to use.
The biggest issue for me with this system is one that may come as a surprise. One of the things that I loved about the VI Lite above was the way that it kept going all afternoon. It became a reliable little ally during my adventures.
This one was disappointing by comparison. The maximum battery life here is barely over an hour. This may be comparable to the GoPRO, but shouldn’t the battery be as good, or better than the cheaper model?
The battery life is an issue for me, but might not be so bad for other users. There is no doubt that you can get plenty done in that 70 minutes and create some impressive videos. The design and the new interface are also highly appealing. The question is, is there enough here to warrant that leap in the cost?
Finally, I want to talk about this underwater camcorder from Sony. Sony is a name that many people automatically lean to because of brand recognition – a little like GoPRO. However, that doesn’t mean that their products are always the best option available. I am including this in the guide as a bit of a wildcard final product.
There are some people that will get a lot out of this camera. But, there are issues to be aware of. The most glaringly obvious aspect here is that this really is more of a camcorder than an action camera. This may have an effect on its practical applications.
Why have I added this as a wildcard alternative to the GoPRO?
Pros:
1) Waterproofing – but that is to be expected
2) User-friendly controls with the remote connectivity and display on the camcorder
3) There is an interesting focus on sound with this system.
Cons:
1) The size and shape of the camcorder
2) The cost
Let’s start with the benefits. The functions that are provided here have a lot of potential for the right user. The main aim here is to create a high-quality video in an underwater setting, which does give this a more niche audience. The camera records in 4k with time-lapse and still capabilities. Users can also adjust the viewing angle between a wide, normal or narrow field.
There is also a careful attempt to limit background noise and clean up the audio. Be aware that while there is waterproofing up to 197ft, this is only achieved with the included housing. The camera itself is merely splash proof.
Then there are the negatives involved with this product. I am going to keep calling this a camcorder rather than an action camera because I feel that it is too large for the latter category. The balanced SteadyShot tech is great for a handheld camera.
You aren’t going to be strapping this to a helmet or a drone anytime soon. The other issue here is the cost. The first options here are far cheaper than the GoPRO, which adds to their charm. This one barely comes under the $300 mark. So, is it really a better deal?
Divers and snorkellers can get a lot out of this if they want to improve their videography skills. The controls and image capture are fine, as are the connections to other devices. Still, it is difficult to justify the price for something with such narrow appeal unless it is for professional use.
Any product that comes with claims of an upgrade is always going to catch the interest of keen consumers. So, what is it about this model that is new and improved? Well, for a start, there is the new battery. This upgraded 1050mAh battery means a battery life of 180 minutes – double that of many basic cameras.
There is also a second of these batteries in the package so users can be sure that the camera is ready to go when they are. There is also an upgrade to the waterproof casing, which is now able to withstand depths of 40 meters, rather than 30. Finally, there is a new anti-shake device to increase stability.
How does this upgraded model compare to other GoPRO alternatives?
Pros:
1) the batteries
2) the two case
3) the different recording modes.
Cons:
1) poor instructions.
2) potential sensor issues
In addition to these upgrades, this camera does a lot to ensure that users can achieve the footage and still photos that they would expect with a APEMAN camera. There is the 4K video and 20mp camera with the option to shoot with the wide angle 170-degree lens.
All the footage and photos are easily viewed on the display. It also isn’t just the waterproof case that is appealing here. I also like the strong carry case. This is something that brands don’t think about all that often. They expect us to throw the camera in a bag and treat it a little roughly.
I like the peace of mind in knowing that this camera has a soft landing if I ever drop it. The quality of this, and the camera in general is also great for the fair price tag.
Unfortunately, I also had some issues with some of the quirks of this product. This included figuring out how to open the SD card holder and how to switch on some of the functions. I am not alone here as others have had to call up a slightly underwhelming customer support team. There are also reports that I have seen about sensor malfunctions where hot or dead pixels show up. This isn’t the case for me, but perhaps it is something to keep in mind.
As long as you are the sort of person that is happy to learn on the job, this system will have some potential. Be patient with the quirks and you can be rewarded with some great footage. There are less confusing action cameras, but they don’t all have these features.
On a personal level, this camera stood out to me because of the claims over the waterproofing. There is a general average limit with these devices of 92ft. I don’t know if this is due to the pressure on the camera at lower depths, or because brands can’t see people going much deeper to film.
This one is different as it provides a camera that can go to 100ft. This could make a difference during dive when following fish or exploring caves.
Why else have I included this camera in my list of GoPRO alternatives?
Pros:
1) the waterproofing
2) the angles and zoom
3) the quality of the footage.
Cons
1) the features that are missing.
2) the remote is not waterproof.
There is a lot to love about this camera, and I know that I am not alone in praising it for its abilities. Aside from that capability for diving, I was also pleased to see the attention given to the angles and zoom. Zoom is a big problem with many cameras that fall into the mid-range of the price scale. Either brands don’t provide it at all, or it is a lame attempt that distorts the clarity of the image.
A 5x zoom is, therefore, a nice change. This works well with the different resolution options and the adjustable angles. You can go as wide as 170 degrees or as narrow as 70. This range and adjustability mean that this should suit a wide range of users.
With all that talk of the diving capabilities, some people may be forgiven for assuming that they can wear the remote on their wrist at the same time. You can’t. I tried and learned the hard way. There are also other limitations, which aren’t that unexpected when we consider that this is at the middle of the AKASO range. The Brave 4 has more effects than its smaller cousins.
However, it has a slower frame rate than the V50 models and doesn’t have the same advanced EIS. There is also no touchscreen on the display.
I have to stress the point that this is a more affordable option in the middle of the range, rather than the priciest GoPRO alternative. This means that it isn’t the smartest choice, but still smart enough for many users. The diving modes, zoom and clarity add to the appeal.
Above we mentioned the upgraded version of the APEMAN A80, with its new case and extra capabilities. That product really is difficult to beat because of its improvements and the quality seen. However, it is not the only model in this Apeman range, there are others that come pretty close to offering the same experience at a slightly lower price.
This A77 is a good example. It is one model down in the scale and it’s a tiny bit more affordable. Yet, it still offers many of the features and benefits that users have come to expect from these sorts of devices.
Why have I added this alternative APEMAN camera into this guide?
Pros:
1) plenty of mounting options
2) waterproof to 30m – not 40m but still enough for a lot of needs
3) Enough details to impress keen photographers
Cons:
1) it doesn’t have the case
2) a lower-grade specification compared to some other models of action cameras.
The camera starts off with some good basics – the 4k video and 16mp camera – but also uses different functions with the loops, bursts, and time-lapse modes. The A80 boasts those upgraded 1050mAh batteries – and two of them – but this is also seen here with this “lesser” model.
The specification and the reviews from users show that it really does pay to shop around when looking at different models. The differences may be more subtle than you expect. There is also the use of a nice wireless wrist remote for hands-free operation.
One of the main reasons that the A80 was so much more expensive was the inclusion of that hard case. It is true that I would definitely miss it if I had to downgrade to this model. There is also the fact that the camera capabilities are a little more limited in this lesser A77 model. The photo range is from 5mp to 16mp, rather than 10mp to 20mp. The frame rate is also a little slower.
Still, there are many of the same modes and features and the same EIS. To be honest, many first-time users won’t really be aware of these slight differences. It is the more experienced user that may see the flaws.
A recommendation here depends on your needs. If you have more professional ideas in mind, you may be better off with the A80. If you need something similar, but a little cheaper then this is a great alternative – if you are happy to sacrifice that case.
It is time for another wildcard entry in this guide to the best action cameras. I say this for two important reasons. First of all, this model is a lot more expensive than most of the others in this guide to the best GoPRO alternatives. In fact, some will sell it for around the same prices a lower-end GoPRO itself. The other reason is the design of the remote.
Most brands that offer a wearable remote don’t go as far as turning it into a watch. This is why the price is so much higher. The watch is just as interesting and well made as the camera.
How does this option compare with other alternatives to the GoPRO?
Pros:
1) a good camera
2) an even better watch remote
3) great footage as a result
Cons:
1) some limitations to the lens and pixels
2) the battery life could be better
Let’s start with the benefits of the camera itself, it is small has great clarity and quality and has a wide angle lens at 145 degrees. It is waterproof as far as 60 meters with is double that of most cameras. There is also 1080P video and 16mp on the still camera.
As for the watch, this is a well-made item with a complementary design. I like the feel and fit of the strap and the ease of use of the different buttons. It also helps that it is pretty responsive.
It is difficult for me to list faults with this device because it offers so much as does such a great job. If I were to be picky, which I guess is my job here, I would say that perhaps some of the aspects of the specification could be a little better. The wide angle of 145 degrees isn’t the same 170-degree angle of much cheaper systems. The 16mp camera doesn’t compare to the 20mp system of some of the models above.
One thing that I will say is that I wasn’t able to test out the full potential of the battery. The product description mentions a 90 minute recording time on this 370mAh. Which doesn’t sound that great compared to the product we just looked at. There is also no spare, so you have to be a little more careful with your time management when using this system.
I would have to say that this is definitely recommendable, if only for the watch element. The camera is great, but it is the design of this wearable remote that sets this model apart from the crowd.
The selling point on this camera is obvious from the start – the idea of 360 filming is appealing to a lot of keen videographers. It seems as though this model was designed more for the holidaymaker and those that like a dramatic selfie, rather than those after a true action camera. I say this because of the design of the device, the lack of hardware and the editing software. I know straight away that this wasn’t going to be for me, but I gave it a second look so that I could create this review for you.
So why do I think that this is a good fit for this guide?
Pros:
1) the 360 angle
2) the shooting modes
3) the connectivity
Cons:
1) the lack of hardware.
2) The limitations as a sports camera.
The pros of this camera are easy to see if you want to document your day to day life for the internet in a more interesting manner. The brand claim that the ease of use means that you can put this on a phone, a selfie stick or give it to a dog and get great shots. I’m not sure my dog would be that willing.
The 360 angle is great and allows for a pretty unique view. The idea is that this will make a selfie stick invisible in photographs. Users can also appreciate the smart-track shooting, editing software and the Bluetooth controls.
Let’s move into the downsides. These issues are not just personal. I could see many people criticizing the product for the lack of hardware. It comes with a protective case, USB cable, and an SD card. This is a nice start, but it is not enough. You still need to figure out a way to get this to stay on a bike or a board with ease. The waterproof case is a costly extra that I wasn’t able to try. There is also a lack of information or indicators on the camera to show the user what mode it is in.
As a sports camera for action shots, surfing, and extreme situations? No, not at all. There are far better devices that can help you. As an upgrade for a selfie stick and an interesting gadget? Absolutely. I admit that this product definitely has an audience out there – I am just not in it myself.
Sometimes you get devices that more like a “normal” camera than your typical action cameras. There are some devices where the manufacturers have taken great care to deliver on the finer details of the specification. This, in turn, leads to a pretty good experience across the board.
There are aspects of this SJCAM action camera that I like as the cameraman out on the water. In addition to this, there are also plenty of aspects that are well suited to those in my camp that are more focused on the editing process.
What is it about this model that makes it such a worth admission in this guide to GoPRO alternatives?
Pros:
1) the editing software
2) the stability of the camera
3) the build quality
Cons:
1) there are some queries about the quality for the price paid.
2) the bitrate
The benefits here are clear when we start going through the specification with a finer-toothed comb. A lot of the basics are here, with the 12mp camera, 4K video, waterproofing up to 30m and the fair battery life of 90mins while recording. None of these features really stand out that much. But, I did appreciate the fact that there was also a larger-than-average touchscreen, an 8x digital zoom and a 170-degree wide-angle lens. Those editing the photos were impressed with the clarity of the videos and the ability to shoot in a RAW format. Apparently, the latter make their lives a whole lot easier.
From another perspective, I can see why some people would be unsure about the price of this camera. It isn’t cheap, but you can get a similar sort of specification on ones that are much cheaper. There is also the technical issue of the bitrate.
This won’t mean that much to the average user. But, there is a higher compression on these videos that those seen in the competition. This can reduce the quality of the image. This is the new, updated model in the range and while some believe it is SJCAM’s best yet, others are a little disappointed.
That all depends on your personal experience with this brand. It is an upgrade on previous models and does have some great editing features. But, others would argue that it still doesn’t compare to the competition.
I am going to go off-script here for a moment and offer an alternative to the alternatives – if you get my meaning. So far, this guide has focused on some of the different action cameras from alternative brands that can rival the GoPRO – to one degree or another. But, there is another way to turn a “lesser” camera into something a little more interesting.
This wearable gimbal is a great way to add some extra features to a pre-existing camera. So, you could have a cheaper model with basic functions and essentially upgrade it via this system.
Why have I included this gimbal in this guide about GoPRO alternatives?
Pros:
1) The rotation on the mechanism.
2) The smart technology in the software.
3) The compatibility with lots of different types of camera.
Cons:
1) the waterproofing
2) the price
Let’s start with those clear benefits that users can enjoy with this system. My personal expectations here were pretty minimal. The sales promise was that I would get a strong, rotating gimbal that could be used to capture different angles. The range of motion here is pretty impressive. It is more coordinated than some of my fellow surfers out in the bay.
The camera can handle a 360-degree motion while also switching up the tilt and rolling axis. This can lead to some over-enthusiastic cameramen and slightly sea-sick editors on the initial attempts. The system is also smart enough to follow a planned route, leaving you free to get on with your sport of choice.
Now, many people will ask me whether all this is really worth a price tag that can stretch beyond the $200 mark. There are some decent cameras with mounting hardware for half this price. Part of me says yes because the system is so smooth and offers those great effects. But, this is a lot to pay for what is a fancy accessory.
I also want to point out that this isn’t the best option for all watersports enthusiasts. The company boasts about the “splash-proof” design that can go as deep as 0.5 meters underwater. Well, I can go deeper than that when I fall off a board.
I would indeed recommend this to those that have experience with action camera and want to upgrade their system. But, I only do so to those that want to stay on dry land.
When a camera comes with the claim that it is born for extreme sports, I naturally get a little apprehensive. This is the sort of thing that companies say when they try and overcompensate for some issues. The package that I received was a good starting point because there was definitely enough in the box to allow me to test out different functions. I can also see this being useful in land-based activities and a hit with bikers. Yet, my suspicions were correct as there are limitations to this device.
What is it about this model that make it a hit as an alternative to the GoPRO?
Pros:
1) the range of mounting hardware and other accessories.
2) the connection to the wireless remote.
3) the quality of the underwater photographs.
Cons:
1) limitations on the video recording.
2) a poor battery life.
There are some great positives here for those that want to use this for underwater photography. The waterproof case means that this is ideal for snorkeling and other adventures and the photographs taken are clear with a good color in them. The amount of mounting hardware means that you can use this in a number of ways to capture the best shots. But, some other users have wished that there were some more instructions on how to use them. The system also comes with a decent wireless remote for simple controls.
The main downside here is that this product doesn’t have the quality of the video advertised. The box clearly starts 4k and users expect to see this sort of resolution and high quality. Many fail to do so and I, personally, felt that the clarity was lacking on the higher settings. I was also disappointed to find that the battery died after just an hour.
The second battery helped here when the system died. Still, I would expect a little more from this product at this end of the price scale. There are much cheaper cameras that let me shoot for another half hour on top of that.
I would say that this is far more recommendable to those that are into still photography underwater than those that want to film. There are some nice features here, but the quality still lags behind that of the bigger names.
It is interesting to look at this model straight after reviewing the more expensive rotating gimbal above. This model does things a little differently. The aim here is to provide the ideal mount and gimbal for a smart device, rather than a camera. What this means is that you can spend a little less money on the hardware to transform a pre-existing device into an action camera.
This is highly appealing for anyone getting started with action camera. Many phones have the camera capabilities and software to create some great shots. A compatible gimbal such as this just takes that to another level.
Why have we added this gimbal into this guide to these action cameras?
Pros:
1) The lower price tag compared to the competition.
2) The motion capture settings
3) The battery life
Cons:
1) The placement of some buttons
2) The compatibility with Android devices
The benefits here are actually surprisingly significant when we compare this device to the one above. The price point is around half that of the previous model. Yet, it retains many of the features that we loved. There is plenty of smart technology on board to add some smart photography modes, such as the object tracking and time lapse.
The instant capture onto the phone means that there are no issues with connecting to other devices to view images or edit shots. In fact, you could say that this is the action camera with the largest screen. I also liked the long battery life on this product. I could keep this running for most of the day with no problem.
One interesting thing that I have picked up on in some other user reviews is that there is a big difference in performance between iOS and Android users. As the former, I didn’t notice this. But, others say that the Android compatibility is a little more jumpy and temperamental. There are also some issues with the design of the stand and the placement of the buttons. Some of the controls are in a bit of an awkward place.
There are more issues with this product compared to the more expensive gimbal system approach. However, the compatibility with the iPhone and the software means that it does something new. This has its potential with the right user.
For our final product in this guide, we head back to SOOCOO and to a device that really does try and do it all. The specification for this system stood out to me straight away – as much as the bright orange color on the body. There is a staggering number of claims with this system that mean that it should be highly appealing to the more professional user. I couldn’t wait to see if it lived up to all of its claims and managed to provide the experience I needed.
Does this SOOCOO camera do enough to compare to the other GoPRO alternative action cameras here?
Pros:
1) the cost
2) the range of commands that should help with ease of use
3) the quality of the images
Cons:
1) the quality of the cable
2) the learning curve for new users
I had lots of high hopes for this system because there is a lot here for a very low price. I could tick off the quality of the camera, with the clear video and the use of a 20mp system. There was also the use of the waterproof case, the 170 wide angle lens and the waterproof remote. So far, it had everything that I needed and created some decent shots. I was also intrigued by the controls. There is a display on the back with touchscreen capabilities, but also a voice control. The latter is great in theory when it can be utilized with ease.
The problem here was that there was a bit of a learning curve with all those functions and controls. I got the sense that it was trying to offer too much and compromising that user-friendly experience. If I felt this way, I can imagine that less experienced photographers would have similar experiences. I also had some issues with the HDMI cable. I don’t if it was the wire or the port, but it was a bit temperamental.
The learning curve will be a stumbling block for some users with this new system. However, I would say that it is worth taking the time to get to know this system. The quality and options are impressive for the price paid.