After years of relying on my GoPro for capturing outdoor adventures, I decided to explore the AKASO Brave 7, a more budget-friendly alternative. With its dual screens, waterproof design, and 4K capabilities, all at a fraction of the price of premium models. After testing it across various activities, here’s my take on whether it stands up to its more costly rivals.
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Quick Overview
- Dual screens for easy framing and selfies
- 4K video recording at 30fps and 20MP photos
- IPX8 waterproof rating up to 10 meters
- Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS) 2.0 for smoother footage
- Voice control and remote operation capabilities
- Supports external microphones for enhanced audio
My Experience with the AKASO Brave 7
After a few weeks using the AKASO Brave 7, I’ve been genuinely impressed with how much it offers for the price. I picked it up with the accessory pack, which includes pretty much every mount you’d need, helmet, chest, handlebar, and more. If you like mixing up how you shoot or switching between activities, it’s a handy bit of kit to have from day one.
I’ve mainly been using it on solo hikes and family outings. Most recently, we took it along on a trip to Dartmoor National Park. The kids spent a good while splashing around in one of the streams, so it was the perfect chance to see how the camera handled getting wet. No complaints there. It held up well in and around the water without needing a separate case.
The dual screens are something I’ve come to appreciate more than I expected. Being able to check framing when I’m filming myself makes a big difference, especially when I’m out alone and want to capture a quick update or clip without too much faff. The screen is responsive and, once you get used to the menus, it’s simple enough to navigate.
Video quality is decent, especially for casual use. It shoots in 4K at 30fps, which is more than good enough for personal footage or sharing clips online. The stabilisation does a fair job smoothing out movement, though it’s not quite as refined as what you’d get from a top-tier camera. On uneven ground or when moving quickly, there’s still a bit of shake.
If there’s one area that could use improvement, it’s the audio. The built-in mic works fine in calm conditions, but it tends to pick up a lot of wind or handling noise. I’d definitely recommend using an external mic if you’re planning to record anything where sound quality matters, and thankfully, it does support one.
Battery life has been fairly standard. Shooting in 4K eats through it a bit quicker, but the fact that it comes with two batteries is a big plus. You can easily get through a full day if you plan ahead.
All in all, the Brave 7 is a solid choice for anyone looking to capture their time outdoors without spending a fortune. It’s not going to compete with high-end models on image quality or stabilisation, but it covers the basics well and comes with more features than you’d expect at this price. If you’re mainly filming hikes, family adventures, or everyday trail sessions, it’s a reliable option that won’t break the bank.
AKASO Brave 7 Pros and Cons
Pros
- Offers many features found in higher-end models at a budget-friendly price.
- Includes time-lapse, slow motion, and burst photo modes.
- Touchscreen and intuitive controls make it accessible for beginners.
- Comes with multiple mounts and two batteries, providing great value.
Cons
- While it records in 4K, the footage isn’t as crisp as premium models.
- Internal microphone performance is subpar; an external mic is recommended for better sound.
- Recording at higher resolutions drains the battery quickly; carrying spares is advisable.
More AKASO Brave 7 Photos
Learn More
Like this review? Well, you’re in luck as I’ve got a bunch of other great resources for you to explore here…
- Wild Camping: The Complete Beginner’s Guide
- Best Tents For Wild Camping
- Best Hammocks + Best Bivvy Bags
- Best Paddle Board Accessories
- Best Places for Wild Camping Wales, Scotland and The Lake District
I was kindly gifted the AKASO Brave 7 to test and review. My review is independent of the supplier and reflects my own unbiased opinions. Some of the links on this page are affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission if purchases are made through those links at no additional cost to you. You can read my affiliate disclosure in the privacy policy.
About the Author
Steve Cleverdon is an outdoor adventure specialist with 15+ years of hiking, camping, and paddle boarding experience. He has conquered Europe’s toughest trails including the GR20 in Corsica, walked 3,000km solo across New Zealand, and worked professionally in the outdoors industry. Steve’s gear reviews and recommendations are based on real-world testing across four continents, from coastal waters to mountain peaks. Learn more about Steve or get in touch.
