Before getting into our Akaso Brave 8 Lite review, we want to make one thing clear. Despite its name suggesting a stripped-down version, Akaso Brave 8 Lite stands tall in the competitive world of budget action cameras. Offering good quality video and a plethora of accessories at a competitive price, the device poses a significant challenge to more established brands like GoPro and DJI.
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Akaso Brave 8 Lite is designed for budget-conscious adventurers who want a reliable action camera without breaking the bank. Positioned as a more affordable alternative to high-end models, it aims to provide solid performance for outdoor enthusiasts, vloggers, and casual photographers alike.
User Experience
Design & Handling
The Brave 8 Lite comes with a myriad of accessories, including straps, adhesive pads, and mounts for helmets and handlebars. This extensive package adds considerable value, especially when compared to more expensive rivals that charge extra for accessories. The inclusion of two batteries is a notable advantage for those planning extended shooting sessions.
Navigating the camera is relatively intuitive, thanks to a responsive rear touchscreen. However, its sensitivity can lead to accidental menu selections. Physical buttons are also present for essential functions, providing an alternative control method when wearing gloves or in challenging conditions.
Performance
In well-lit conditions, Brave 8 Lite’s 4K video is impressively sharp with accurate colours. However, it struggles with complex exposures and low-light scenarios. The SuperSmooth video stabilisation, while decent, falls short of the gimbal-like quality seen in more expensive models. Photo mode also shows exposure quirks, though low-light performance has seen some improvement over its predecessor.
App and Setup
The Akaso Go app is necessary for firmware updates and downloading SuperSmooth video. While functional, the app has its quirks, such as requiring manual Wi-Fi network switching on Android devices. Additionally, the camera tends to heat up significantly during extended video transfers.
Features And Software
Brave 8 Lite boasts a variety of shooting modes, including time-lapse, slow motion, and HDR video. However, HDR mode often results in overexposed footage, and the camera struggles with dynamic range in challenging lighting conditions. SuperSmooth stabilisation is a highlight but is not as effective as that of its pricier competitors.
Akaso has been generous with accessories, packing in multiple mounts, straps, two batteries, a charger, and more. This extensive kit ensures users have everything they need for a variety of shooting scenarios right out of the box.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Good quality 4K video
- Decent SuperSmooth image stabilisation
- Competitive price
- Extensive accessory kit included
Cons:
- Exposure issues in photos
- Disappointing HDR mode
- Poor app experience
Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Video Resolution | 4K60 / 4K30 / 2.7K120 / 2.7K90 / 2.7K60 / 2.7K30 / 1440P180 / 1440P120 / 1440P60 / 1440P30 / 1080P120 / 1080P60 / 1080P30 |
| Photo Resolution | 20MP |
| Video Modes | Video / Time Lapse Video / Slow Motion / Hyperlapse / HDR Video |
| Photo Modes | Photo / Time Lapse Photo |
| Battery Capacity | 1550mAh |
| Waterproofing | Up to 10m (33ft) |
| In the Box | 1 x Action Camera, 1 x Camera Frame, 1 x Remote Control, 1 x Battery Charger, 2 x 1550mAh Battery, 7 x Mount, 2 x Helmet Mount, 1 x Lens Cloth, 1 x Handlebar Mount, 4 x Bandage, 5 x Tether, 1 x USB Cable, 2 x Double-Sided Adhesive Tape, 1 x Spanner |
| Dimensions | 64 x 45 x 35mm |
| Weight | 114g (including battery) |
| Front Screen | 1.22-inch (non-touch) |
| Rear Screen | 2-inch touch screen |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi |
| Stabilisation | SuperSmooth |
Conclusion
Akaso Brave 8 Lite is a commendable budget action camera that delivers solid 4K video quality in good lighting conditions. While it has its quirks, such as exposure issues and a less-than-stellar app, the overall value proposition makes it a strong contender for those looking for an affordable alternative to GoPro and DJI models.
FAQ
Yes, it is waterproof up to 10 meters (33 feet) without additional housing.
The camera includes two 1550mAh batteries, providing decent battery life for extended shooting sessions.
Yes, the camera can be used while charging via a USB-C cable.
While effective, it doesn’t quite match the gimbal-like quality of more expensive models from GoPro and DJI.
The Akaso Go app is necessary for firmware updates and downloading stabilised video but can be cumbersome and lacks polish.
