The AKASO Brave 7 LE is a great budget action camera with dual screens, a sensor capable of 4k 60 fps video and 20MP stills. After having it for a little over a month now let’s take a look at how it compares with the likes of GoPro and DJI.
The dual-screen
AKASO has managed to implement a dual-screen design right in time before GoPro is going to release the Hero 9 and they’ve done a great job. To get into the front display you have to hold the mode button for a few seconds which automatically turns on the front display and turns the back off.
The front display still gives you all the information you need, including battery life, mode, recording time left, and the features you currently have on such as image stabilization.
The footage
The 4k video coming out of this camera is great for the price. It’s clear, re-produces colours impressively, and doesn’t blow out the highlights. The 60 fps addition is also a great touch for those wanting to get slow-mo video without dropping the resolution. Taking a look at the photos from the camera, they are just as great!
Minor issues
Micro-USB
A little point to note is that the Brave 7 LE uses micro-USB instead of the now-standard USB-C connector. While this isn’t a major issue it’s nice to have all your devices using one connector instead of needing various cables to charge and transfer with. I’m sure the Brave 8 LE will use USB-C.
Underwater case
Coming off using a GoPro for the last few years, it’s a little weird having to go back to using a waterproof case if you are going to use it around or in water. While it’s not a big deal that I need a waterproof case to use it, it’s a smoother experience not having to put it in and out of a case all the time. The AKASO does combat this by having a tripod mount right on the camera and one that can be attached to the waterproof case.
User interface
One thing that continues to plague Chinese action cameras is the user interface. The interface has improved over the years, but it still has a little way to go before it catches up with the likes of GoPro and DJI. The interface is easy to use but it does lag out from time to time and the menus can get confusing in certain situations.
Final verdict
If you are looking for a budget action camera or aren’t wanting to support DJI and GoPro, the AKASO Brave 7 LE is a great option to go with. Yes, it doesn’t have 4k 60 fps, which isn’t the best with the current standard of action camera resolution, but it is still a great camera to pick up either way.
You can pick up the AKASO Brave 7 LE from Amazon for $139.99, a great deal as it comes with two batteries, remote control, adhesive mounts, a pole mount, a tripod mount, and the waterproof case, of course.
