GoPro’s dominance has shifted slightly in recent years but when it comes to dedicated action cams with incredible stabilization, it’s hard to beat. That performance comes at a price, however, so what do you get when you buy yourself a budget option?
In this excellent video, Gene Nagata a.k.a. Potato Jet puts the AKASO V50 Pro Native 4K30fps 20MP WiFi Action Camera with EIS Touch Screen to the test, pitting it against the GoPro Hero 8 Black. The AKASO is one-third of the price of the GoPro and the box includes a watch that enables remote control, along with a spare battery and charger — all items that are missing from the basic GoPro Hero 8 option. At just $120, it’s something of a bargain.
Nagata runs through a load of comparisons and while video quality and stabilization is definitely not on par with the GoPro, much of the AKASO’s limitations seem to be about usability and durability. As with most camera gear, you will get what you pay for.
Notably, if you opt for the AKASO, you’re investing in technology from a company that has no proven record. There may be a warranty but making the claim might be tricky, and once outside of that first year of use, it’s hard to know how long the camera will hold up. Of course, at that price point, it’s much more replaceable, so it probably balances out.
Have you bought a cheap action cam? Are there any models that stand out above the rest? Leave your thoughts in the comments below.