Key points
- The Brave 7 is their latest offering, boasting a host of features that rival those of the HERO 8 at a fraction of the price.
- The HERO 8 remains the top choice for those who demand the best image quality, stabilization, and versatility, while the Brave 7 is an incredible value for those who prioritize budget and don’t mind sacrificing some advanced features.
- The Akaso Brave 7 offers a slightly longer battery life of up to 2 hours and 15 minutes compared to the GoPro HERO 8’s 2 hours.
GoPro has long been synonymous with action cameras, and the HERO 8 is the latest iteration of their flagship device. With its compact size, rugged durability, and impressive image quality, the HERO 8 is a formidable contender in the action camera market.
Akaso Brave 7: A Budget-Friendly Contender
Akaso has emerged as a formidable competitor to GoPro, offering a range of budget-friendly action cameras that pack a punch. The Brave 7 is their latest offering, boasting a host of features that rival those of the HERO 8 at a fraction of the price.
Key Features: A Head-to-Head Comparison
Image Stabilization
Both the HERO 8 and Brave 7 feature advanced image stabilization systems, ensuring smooth and stable footage even in the most extreme conditions. The HERO 8’s HyperSmooth 2.0 takes the edge, providing unparalleled stabilization, while the Brave 7’s EIS (Electronic Image Stabilization) delivers solid performance at a lower cost.
Resolution and Frame Rates
The HERO 8 captures stunning 4K video at up to 60fps, while the Brave 7 maxes out at 4K 30fps. For high frame rate enthusiasts, the HERO 8’s 1080p 240fps and 720p 480fps modes offer incredible slow-motion capabilities.
Field of View
The HERO 8 offers a wide range of field of view options, from SuperView (15mm) to Linear (11mm). The Brave 7 provides a narrower field of view, ranging from 170° to 120°.
Waterproofing
Both the HERO 8 and Brave 7 are waterproof to depths of 10 meters (33 feet) without the need for an external housing. This makes them ideal for underwater adventures and water sports.
Battery Life
The HERO 8 features a removable 1220mAh battery that provides up to 2 hours of 4K video recording. The Brave 7’s built-in 1350mAh battery offers a slightly longer runtime of up to 2 hours and 15 minutes.
Accessories
GoPro’s extensive ecosystem of accessories gives the HERO 8 an edge in terms of versatility. From mounts to filters, there’s a wide range of options available to enhance your action camera experience. Akaso also offers a growing range of accessories, but their selection is more limited.
Price and Availability
The GoPro HERO 8 retails for around $400, while the Akaso Brave 7 is available for approximately $150. The Brave 7 offers a significant cost advantage, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
Which Camera Is Right for You?
The best choice between the GoPro HERO 8 and Akaso Brave 7 depends on your specific needs and budget.
Choose the GoPro HERO 8 if:
- Image stabilization is your top priority
- You need high frame rates for slow-motion footage
- You want a wide range of field of view options
- You plan on investing in GoPro accessories
Choose the Akaso Brave 7 if:
- You’re on a tight budget
- You’re satisfied with basic image stabilization
- You don’t need high frame rates or a wide field of view
- You’re willing to compromise on accessory availability
The Verdict: A Balanced Decision
Both the GoPro HERO 8 and Akaso Brave 7 are excellent action cameras, each offering unique strengths and compromises. The HERO 8 remains the top choice for those who demand the best image quality, stabilization, and versatility, while the Brave 7 is an incredible value for those who prioritize budget and don’t mind sacrificing some advanced features.
Questions You May Have
Which camera has better battery life?
The Akaso Brave 7 offers a slightly longer battery life of up to 2 hours and 15 minutes compared to the GoPro HERO 8’s 2 hours.
Can either camera shoot in RAW format?
Yes, both the HERO 8 and Brave 7 can capture RAW photos for greater flexibility in post-processing.
Which camera is more waterproof?
Both the HERO 8 and Brave 7 are waterproof to depths of 10 meters (33 feet) without the need for an external housing.
Does the Brave 7 have a removable battery?
No, the Brave 7’s battery is built-in and cannot be removed.
Which camera has a better microphone?
The HERO 8 features a higher-quality microphone with wind noise reduction, while the Brave 7’s microphone is more basic.