As an action camera expert, I‘m routinely asked – which is better between Akaso and GoPro? With two great options to choose from, the decision need not be complicated…when armed with the right facts!
This guide will analyze how Akaso and GoPro models compare on video quality, features, connectivity, accessories, and value. I‘ll also share plenty of hands-on usage tips from testing them both extensively.
So whether you‘re a concerned buyer or just camera nerd like me, read on for the definitive Akaso vs GoPro showdown!
Akaso Overview
Founded in 2010, Akaso makes affordable action cameras competing with established players like GoPro. Beyond great budget cameras, Akaso also sells outdoor apparel and equipment.
They smartly target casual users satisfied with very good 4K quality at a fraction of the price. The impressive Akaso Brave 7 LE launched at just $90, recording stable footage up to 4K/30fps. I‘d suggest Akaso for cost-conscious folks wanting very capable budget 4K action filming.
GoPro Overview
Founded by CEO Nick Woodman way back in 2004, GoPro cameras pioneered the action camera space. They target premium quality demanding users via iterative new flagship models like the GoPro Hero11 Black. Retailing at $500, the Hero11 films incredible 5.3K video stabilized by GoPro‘s proprietary HyperSmooth software. Consider GoPro if seeking absolutely cutting edge performance.
Now let‘s compare these two impressive yet very different action camera brands in detail across the key decision factors:
Image Quality Comparison
Footage clarity and sharpness should be a top priority for action camera buyers. Comparing the 4K output from Akaso against GoPro‘s latest 5.3K reveals noticeable differences:
Resolution
- Akaso Brave 7 LE: 4K video up to 30 fps
- GoPro Hero11 Black: 5.3K video up to 60 fps
The superior resolution of the GoPro pays dividends with crisper detail in frame. 5.3K downsampled to 4K in editing beats what Akaso cameras natively capture.
Dynamic Range
Referencing this sample Hero11 pov bike footage, the sensor‘s dynamic range impresses handling dark trail sections against bright skies smoothly. No highlight blow outs or crushed blacks like cheaper cams suffer from.
Testing Akaso footage shows decent range too, albeit a touch less latitude preserving subtle shadow/highlight detail.
Low Light Ability
This night skating clip displays the Hero11‘s outstanding high ISO performance even under erratic urban street lighting. Akaso can‘t quite match this, exhibiting more visible noise during dark scenes.
For maximum image quality and creative options in post, GoPro still rules. But Akaso produces pleasing 4K daily documentation if pristine footage isn‘t paramount.
Video Stabilization Comparison
Physical camera shake is expected when strapped to helmets and vehicles. Both companies integrate advanced software stabilization to steady things out.
GoPro Hero11 HyperSmooth 5.0 delivers gimbal-like steadiness even over heavily uneven terrain as seen here. The smoothness provided almost seems uncanny!
Akaso Brave 7 EIS doesn‘t quite reach HyperSmooth‘s caliber but remains respectable. For cycling, surfing, etc the built-in stabilization nicely counters smaller shakes and vibration.
GoPro certainly pulls ahead keeping footage distractioningly smooth regardless of the situation. Yet Akaso‘s algorithms work well for casual use reducing disruption from unwanted motion.
Connectivity and Accessories
Of course capturing great footage means little if you can‘t easily access it afterwards. Both brands enable full camera control plus seamless transfers via companion mobile apps.
The slick GoPro Quik software powers an entire mobile editing suite too. It can even auto-compile highlights from your recent shoots!
Conversely, Akaso‘s app focuses purely on camera connectivity lacking broader creative functionality. It delivers well transferring clips over WiFi to your phone but trails GoPro‘s much more expansive software capabilities.
In terms of mounts and mods, GoPro‘s vast accessory ecosystem dwarfs Akaso‘s catalog. With various grips, lights, mics, screens, batteries and housings available, GoPro rigs prove extremely customizable. Akaso offers just the basics to strap or mount your cam securely.
If you crave maximum accessory options tailoring your gear, GoPro wins out. But Akaso provides the essential mounts/mods to start filming effectively.
Price and Value Comparison
Obviously price plays a major role when comparing camera options. Let‘s break down value accounting for performance.
The Akaso Brave 7 LE launched at a mere $90 retail carrying very capable specs:
- 170° FOV Ultra HD 4K30 Video
- Advanced Electronic Image Stabilization
- 13MP Still Images
- Up To 30M Waterproof Performance
A sub-$100 action cam packing stable 4K recording makes this Akaso extremely enticing to budget buyers.
By contrast, the GoPro Hero11 Black commands a premium $500 MSRP. However it delivers cutting edge performance:
- New Performance Setting for 5.3K60 Video
- Revolutionary Image Quality
- Connectivity and App Convenience
- HyperSmooth 5.0 Video Stabilization
While costing over 5X more, the considerable spec upgrades ultimately somewhat justify the Hero11‘s steep pricing. It remains the top-tier performance benchmark for action cameras.
Ultimately it depends on your priorities and filming needs. For many casual users, Akaso provides tremendous value with impressive core features at bargain rates. But those needing uncompromising pro-tier results will want to invest in GoPro‘s industry leading technology instead.
Which Is Better For You?
With performance metrics analyzed and value propositions covered for both brands, determining the right action camera depends on your needs and budget.
Best for affordability and flexibility: Akaso
I‘d recommend Akaso action cams if you:
- Seek very good quality on a tight budget
- Want impressive stabilzed 4K ability
- Desire value leaving budget for accessories
- Plan to film family/pet adventures
For under $100, their entry and mid-level options pack totally surprising spec sheets rivaling GoPro‘s of just a generation or two ago. Casual and new users will appreciate Akaso‘s combination of low prices and strong core features.
Best for cutting edge performance: GoPro
Alternatively, stretching for the trusted GoPro brand makes sense if you:
- Demand flawless professional event/content capturing
- Regularly film ultra HD 5K+ productions
- Appreciate silky smooth HyperSmooth stabilization
- Need copious accessory options
Serious content creators, adventurers and techies wanting today‘s highest quality and capabilities in an action cam should go GoPro. Their status remains well earned with incredible flagship models like the Hero11 Black.
Either way you choose, both Akaso and GoPro output some of the most impressive footage from devices so compact. Hopefully breaking down their merits and limitations helps you decide which option best fits your filming needs and budget!
I‘m happy to provide any other pointers comparing these two brands and models. Until next time, shoot on and capture those awesome life moments!
