An AKASO Brave 4 Pro Review – Cheap Underwater Camera? Worth The Money? Let’s find out!
The AKASO Brave 4 Pro Action Camera is a high-quality camera that is perfect for capturing amazing footage while you’re on the go. This camera is packed with features that will make your videos look incredible, and it’s very easy to use. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the AKASO Brave 4 Pro Action and how it works underwater.
The Brave 4 Pro – Let’s Take A Look!
The Brave 4 Pro is a compact sports camera similar to the GoPro in design. The camera itself is not waterproof, but it comes with a sealing action case that is quite waterproof. Like most action cameras these days, the Brave 4 Pro takes great still shots and includes time-lapse and image stabilization.
The camera also works great for action video, taking 4k quality at 30fps. Okay, if you’re a gamer then we know you want to see 60 fps minimum, but in a typical action YouTube video, 30k fps is just fine. That makes the Brave 4 Pro a pretty impressive camera for the low cost.
How Brave 4 Pro Compares To Others
The Market Leader: GoPro HERO 10
The Brave 4 Pro is a decent camera, but the industry leader of the pack is the GoPro Hero 10 Black Edition. It shoots at a ludicrous 5.3k video with a double frame rate. Couple that with the power of the GP2 chip and you’ve got your answer as to why the Hero 10 is the industry leader. However, the price does reflect its 23MP photo ability, and compared to the Brave 4 Pro, it is considerably more expensive.
Some of the features of the GoPro Hero 10 Black really make it stand out though. For example, it’s cloud connectable. So, when it’s charged and you’re taking pictures with it, they are auto-uploaded to the cloud. Add the HyperSmooth 4.0 video stabilization and you’ve got a winner.
Previous Editions:
Brave 4 – The base model of the Brave 4 only has 24 fps video.
Previous year models are not worth the money, in my opinion, so they aren’t worth mentioning.
What You Get With Brave 4 Pro
When you buy your AKASO Brave 4 Pro Action Camera, you’ll get a few cool things:
- The feature-packed action camera itself.
- A wearable remote control for wrist-mounted control of recording video and taking photos.
- The diving case waterproof housing gives your camera security to depths of up to 131 feet.
- Two rechargeable li-ion batteries.
Why The Brave 4 Pro Stands Out To Me
I’ll be honest – this is a decent enough action camera with features that do the job. The camera doesn’t jump out at me like the latest GoPro, but when I see the price and consider what I’m using it for – I like it. So, what stands out to me is the quality versus price point.
Sure, the Brave 4 Pro doesn’t come with a ton of flashy features, but it does have a really convenient wearable remote. That’s one of the reasons I bought the camera. I had an expensive GoPro but smashed it on a fall snowboarding. So, I wanted a cheaper camera for the extreme stuff.
Similarly, I didn’t want to attach my new GoPro to my drone for fear of smashing another expensive piece of tech. So again, I opted for the Brave 4 Pro.
It’s a camera that’s got enough features to make it fully functional, yet at a price that doesn’t make me cringe having to replace it should one get smashed or lost to Davey Jones’s locker.
Who Makes It And More
Akaso is an American company located in Frederick, Maryland. It operates under the name Akaso Tech LLC. The company is located at 4907 International Blvd Ste 113 Frederick, MD 21703-7329, United States. Their phone number is (301) 670-7335. The principal of the company is Chu Pei-Hsien. (source)
Akaso Tech LLC boasts a 20,000 square foot distribution warehouse in the U.S., according to the Akasotech.com website. The cameras are manufactured in China.
Product Benefits
- Dual-Color Screen Design
- Keep Your Footage Stable
- Support External Microphone
- Protective Dive Housing
- Wireless Remote Control
Product Drawbacks
There aren’t many drawbacks to the Brave 4 Pro. However, I did find that there were two things I found an issue with.
- Due to a lack of flash, if diving deeper than 20 feet, you need an accessory underwater light. I used a DIY submersible drone to test this camera at depth and found that in freshwater on a sunny day I got to about 22 feet before it was getting pretty bad due to low lighting.
In saltwater (in the Caribean) I found that I got to about 40 feet before it was getting pretty gloomy. However, again it depends on the conditions. It was a bit overcast when I was in the Caribbean with it, so bright but not a usual sunny day. I’d estimate you could get to about 60 feet with this camera in the brighter waters before you’re going to need a light, but it depends on the clarity of the water.
- The other issue I found was using time-lapse. If you are using time-lapse for more than an hour, you’ll need to plug in the camera because I had a fully charged battery die at 57 minutes into a time-lapse episode. So, I’d like to see a battery with longer life in this camera. For the price, however, it’s pretty decent.
Things To Consider About The Brave 4 Pro Action Camera
The dual screens on the Brave 4 Pro action camera let you capture all the action with the touch of a button.
Built-in Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS) 2.0 with a 6-axis gyroscope detects position and motion changes. When the camera tilts, moves, shakes, or experiences impact, this action camera can still produce stable video.
Sound is a crucial element in any video, and this action camera has you covered. Not only does it exclusively support the Akaso accessory external microphone for capturing sound from all directions with crisp details but also boasts a built-in mic so you only need the accessory for extra sound!
The new AKASO Brave 4 Pro underwater camera is a must-have for your next adventure. The durable, waterproof housing can withstand anything you throw at it – from dirt and debris in the pool or ocean depths up to 131 feet (40 meters) deep!
Control your favorite activities with the remote control on your wrist! From hiking and biking to skiing, bungee jumping – you’ll be able to get Ultra Conveniently in any situation. The remote isn’t waterproof but it does offer great functionality for all sorts of outdoor adventures without having to worry about dropping or losing something else when out there exploring nature up close.
The brave 4 pro has an impressive 5x optical zoom, which makes it possible to adjust how close or far away your subject appears in the video.
The 2 x 1350mAh batteries will extend your recording time by a significant margin, which is perfect for those who are often out and about. The built-in charge takes care of worrying about when you’ll be able to head back into the field after taking some pictures or video footage! And having a spare charged battery along for the ride is great too, so it’s handy the Brave 4 Pro comes with two batteries.
Who Needs A Brave 4 Pro
If you’re looking for a decent action camera to use underwater (or above water), but you’re on a budget – this is the right camera for you. The Brave 4 Pro is perfect for budget-minded people who want a camera that functions well at a good price. I think that the following roles would suit this camera:
- Content Creators
- Vloggers
- Bikers
- Hikers
- Scuba Divers
- Swimmers
Underwater Action Camera Purchasing Considerations
When shopping for an action camera to take underwater, there are a few things to keep in mind.
First and foremost, you’ll want to make sure that the camera is submersible. This means it should be able to withstand being submerged in water for extended periods of time. You’ll want to consider what kind of underwater housing or casing you’ll need to protect the camera if the camera itself is not waterproof. Also, consider the depth rating and the depth you intend to go with the device.
Secondly, you’ll want to consider the camera’s image quality. Underwater photos can be notoriously tricky to get right, so you’ll want a camera that takes high-quality images.
Thirdly, you’ll need to think about what kind of underwater footage you’re hoping to capture. Are you looking to film marine life? Or are you more interested in documenting your own underwater adventures? Do the camera’s specifications match or exceed your requirements?
You’ll also need to consider what kind of budget you have for an action camera. Fortunately, there are plenty of great underwater action cameras on the market at a variety of price points. With a little bit of research, you should be able to find the perfect camera.
Naturally, we need to also consider the battery life. Does the camera suit your needs for the expected image or video capture time before a battery change is required?
Finally, you’ll want to think about accessories. Many action cameras come with a variety of mounts and cases that can help you get the most out of your underwater photography experience. By keeping these things in mind, you’ll be sure to find the perfect action camera for your next
Here are a few thoughts to sum up a few features and whether or not you should buy:
- If you need greater than 4k 30fps, don’t buy this camera.
- If you need a camera with a built-in flash, don’t buy the Brave 4 Pro.
- Also, if you need a camera that has a waterproof rating for deeper than 131 feet (40 meters) this is not the right camera for you.
Brave 4 Pro Features And Benefits
Image-Stabilization
Action cameras are designed to go where regular cameras can’t, whether that’s underwater or into the action itself. But even the steadiest hands can produce shaky footage, which is why image stabilization is such an essential feature.
The built-in 6-axis gyroscope of the Akaso Brave 4 Pro can detect position and motion changes, and then adjust the image accordingly. This results in smoother, more steady footage no matter what you’re doing. Whether you’re shooting action on land or exploring the underwater world, image stabilization will help you capture clear, beautiful footage every time.
Dual-Screen
Action cameras are designed to be small and rugged, so they can be used in a variety of settings, from action-packed skiing or surfing trips to more sedate family vacations. However, one of the most common complaints about action cameras is that it can be difficult to see what you’re recording. This is where the front and rear dual screens come in handy.
With a front and rear dual-screen action camera, you can see what you’re recording as you’re recording it. This is especially useful for underwater shots, as you can see if you’re in the frame and whether the shot is properly focused. And because the action camera is submersible, you don’t have to worry about getting wet. So whether you’re looking for an action camera for
AKASO App Control
If you’re looking for an action camera that gives you the ultimate control, look no further than the Akaso Brave 4 Pro. This camera comes with AKASO App Control, so you can use your phone to control the camera and access recordings. And because it’s submersible, you can take it underwater to capture all the action, even in the most extreme environments.
Whether you’re filming a whitewater rafting trip or an underwater exploration, the Akaso Brave 4 Pro is up for the challenge. So don’t settle for anything less – get the Akaso Brave 4 Pro and start filming your adventures today.
Time-Lapse
Time-lapse cameras are becoming increasingly popular, and it’s not hard to see why. By combining the convenience of an action camera with the ability to capture stunning time-lapse footage, they offer a unique way to capture and share memories. And thanks to their compact size and submersible design, time-lapse cameras can go places traditional cameras can’t.
Whether you’re documenting a day at the beach, your aquarium fish, or capturing the construction of a new building, time-lapse cameras are the perfect tool for capturing the action. Best of all, time-lapse footage is easy to share online, making it the perfect way to show off your latest adventure.
Action Camera with 5x Optical Zoom
Zoom in on the action with the 5x Optical Zoom. This underwater camera is perfect for capturing all the action, whether you’re snorkeling, diving, or just swimming laps. The 5x optical zoom lets you get close to the action, while the submersible design means you can take it down to depths of up to 131 feet. So go ahead and zoom in on the action.
Multi-Functionality Action Camera
Brave 4 Pro boasts a number of cool modes and functions. These include:
- Driving Mode
- Loop Recording
- WDR
- Motion Detection
- Upside Down Function
131 FT (40 meters) Waterproof
Okay, I’ve already mentioned it, but with the waterproof housing firmly secured, the camera can get down to 131 feet (40 meters). This fact makes it a very impressive device for a low price.
Longer Battery Life Than Previous Versions & Many Competitors
Many action cameras have very short battery life. In fact, it often correlates to the number of features and camera resolution. That’s why this camera is relatively impressive. The price versus quality versus the time you get to record before a battery dies makes it well worth the money.
4K Video Capture Resolution @ 30 fps
Okay, so I’m a bit of a gamer – so I really appreciate 60fps. However, 30fps for an action camera isn’t something to sneer off as no good. Quite the contrary, in fact. YouTube has some fairly specific upload framerate requirements:
“Content should be encoded and uploaded in the same frame rate it was recorded.
Common frame rates include 24, 25, 30, 48, 50, 60 frames per second (other frame rates are also acceptable).
Interlaced content should be deinterlaced before uploading. For example, 1080i60 content should be deinterlaced to 1080p30. 60 interlaced fields per second should be deinterlaced to 30 progressive frames per second.”
What I read from the above is that Google prefers you use 30fps deinterlaced. So, our Brave 4 Pro is perfect to record videos for YouTube.
AKASO Brave 4 Pro Performance
I found the camera worked pretty well other than no more than one hour on a battery for time-lapse. But overall, I found it worked fine. Here’s what others had to say though:
Above is a screenshot of two helpful reviews I found on the Walmart site. Although, I don’t like how Walmart has its site setup. A lot of the sellers seem pretty dodgy to me on there and I’ve heard horror stories, so personally, I trust Amazon more though because of the ease of the return process.
Fellow User Testimonials
I searched the net high and low to find out what people were saying about the Akaso Brave 4 Pro. After all, you can’t trust what you read on the manufacturer’s site – they have a vested interest in selling you their product. Similarly, most review sites are just affiliate garbage, so I wanted to find out from REAL PEOPLE WHO BOUGHT THE CAMERA. Believe me, finding them wasn’t as easy as you might think. Here’s some of what I found out:
David Reyes – “I love this action camera. But that screw is so tight I couldn’t take it off and broke it. I even tried a drill and stripped the screw. Other than that it’s good. All the accessories are great also.”
Lisa – “We bought this product bc my kids skis. My husband used t his i11 phone to record but it was getting too dangerous, so we were getting a sport cam. We got Akaso based on its rating and demo from product. However after testing it over the weekend on the slope, we were very disappointed.
The quality of video is not as good as i11 phone; The video is not stable, and it shake a lot; To transfer the video to cell phone is another nightmare. Originally we thought our phone were too old for this cam, but it turn out it was the coding on the chip not well written! It has fragment on it and looks like the QA of the company were not doing its job before approving the product. Sad. This is a well package and demo product but not a good fit if you are a sport fan and need a good quality easy use sport cam.”
Moodicus Maximus – “I bought this as a gift. Upon the recipients return from vacation I was able to see the footage and it was definitely not 4K. The quality is similar to 720 but I guess you get what you pay for. Wish I had better feedback, I sure hope so when I purchased it. My friend loved this regardless and did use it diving, no leaking in the case. I’d say it’s a decent mid range gift. Definitely not on par with GoPro though.”
My Experience With The AKASO Brave 4 Pro Action Camera
I decided to take my new Akaso Brave 4 Pro camera snorkeling off the Pacific coast of Costa Rica. I was a little worried that the camera wouldn’t be able to handle the saltwater, but I was pleasantly surprised.
Although there were spots where the coral was dead, I was happy with the camera’s performance.
The camera performed well, capturing clear video and photos of the amazing coral and fish. I highly recommend this action camera for anyone who wants to capture their adventures underwater!
I recommend keeping your camera in a padded container or even a cloth bag within said container. And keep it inside the housing. Then the cloth bag protects the housing (and camera) from damage while traveling around or riding the boat out to your diving spot. You know the boat can bounce your stuff around pretty bad, so that’s where I found I needed to protect my housing from getting scratched the most.
I also took the camera mountain biking and found that it was able to handle the bumps and falls with no problem. The video quality was still good, and I was really happy with the results. Overall, I am very impressed with the Akaso Brave 4 Pro action camera and would recommend it to anyone looking for a good quality camera at a reasonable price.
Alternative Underwater Cameras To Consider
AKASO Brave 7 LE Action Camera
The Akaso Brave 7 LE is basically an upgraded body design of the Brave 4 Pro. It carries a lot of the same specs:
- 5 x Optical zoom
- Dual displays
- 4K 30fps video
- Image stabilization
The difference is the IPX7 water-resistant design of the body of the camera itself. Unlike the Brave 4 Pro, you don’t need the housing to take this one out – in the rain. However, don’t submerge it without the waterproof case they say. So, in essence, it’s a slightly upgraded body from the 4, but costs from $20 to $40 more than the 4.
GoPro HERO 10 Black Edition
I mentioned earlier how the GoPro HERO10 Black is the epitome of modern-day action cameras. It’s got a ludicrous bunch of cool features like automatic cloud uploading and more. However, the added features come at the expense of your wallet and your battery life. But, if you want the best – this is it (just be prepared to buy extra batteries and chargers).
Best Accessory To Accompany The Brave 4 Pro When Underwater – Light and Motion Sola Dive 1200 Light
As I mentioned earlier, without a built-in light, things get pretty dark, pretty quick underwater. That’s why I always carry my Sola light. Now, I’ve got one of the brighter 2500 series, but if you’re just starting out then I’m sure you’ll find the 1200 series pretty formidable.
The innovative design of the compact, powerful dual-beam and multiple power settings (70-280 minutes run-time) make it an ultimate travel-ready dive light. The light is easy to strap onto your wrist, or hold in your hand and boasts 1200 lumen output. Coming in at only 254 grams, it’s lightweight, which is something I appreciate when out on a dive.
Final Thoughts About The AKASO Brave 4 Pro Action Camera
The Akaso Brave 4 Pro does the job at a reasonable price. It may not have all the bells and whistles of the more expensive brands and models, but it gets the job done reasonably well.
The body of the camera itself is cheap plastic, so I like to keep my camera wrapped in its protective housing pretty much at all times. The other thing to remember is that the housing can get scratched fairly easily given that it’s made of plastic. Once the housing over the lens gets scratched, you’ll need a new housing face. Not the end of the world and the same rule applies to the most expensive cameras, so this isn’t unreasonable.
For the price, I really think the Akaso Brave 4 Pro is a decent buy. And apparently, a lot of people agree with me because the camera is quite popular. And at the price, you could grab a few of them for the price of other cameras, making a team of cameras at your disposal.
If you want to learn more about the Akaso or pick one up (I recommend it) take a look here.
