The AKASO Brave 8 is a compelling budget-friendly action cam that delivers high-res video, decent stabilization, and great value through its accessories and dual screens. However, limitations in stabilization under intense movement, low-light noise, average battery life, and some usability glitches (especially with the app and audio) temper its overall performance
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What Is AKASO Brave 8?
The AKASO Brave 8 is a mid-range action camera designed to compete directly with GoPro’s offerings by delivering impressive hardware features at a more accessible price. Featuring a 1/2″ CMOS sensor capable of 48 MP stills and 4K/60fps video, it supports slow-motion, timelapse, and dual-screen operation, all packed into a compact, waterproof body weighing just 114.8 g.
Designed for adventurers, vloggers, and casual creators, it includes two rechargeable 1550 mAh batteries, mounts, a remote, and more right out of the box.
Standout Features
48 MP Still Photos & 4K/60fps Video
A standout spec, its 48 MP photo capability rivals flagship models, while 4K at 60fps covers smooth video needs. It also handles slow motion up to 16× and supports 8K timelapse.
Dual Screens
The Brave 8 sports a rear touchscreen and a front-facing screen, ideal for selfie framing and intuitive control.
Rugged & Waterproof
Without a case, it’s waterproof up to 10 m (33 ft); with a case, depth extends further. Its compact build (63×36.5×45 mm, 114 g) makes it lightweight yet sturdy.
SuperSmooth Image Stabilization
AKASO’s “SuperSmooth” electronic image stabilization aims to deliver gimbal-like steadiness.
Strong Accessory Bundle
The box includes two batteries, dual charger, remote control, multiple mounts, and tethers, offering excellent out-of-the-box value.
App & Voice Control
Supports smartphone app connectivity and voice control. However, the app’s usability has mixed reviews.
AKASO Brave 8 Vs GoPro HERO12 Black
| AKASO Brave 8 | GoPro HERO12 Black |
|---|---|
| Video Resolution: 4K at 60fps | Video Resolution 5.3K at 60fps / 4K at 120fps |
| Photo Resolution: 48 MP | Photo Resolution: 27 MP |
| Stabilization: SuperSmooth EIS (moderate) | Stabilization: HyperSmooth 6.0 (industry-leading) |
| Battery Life: ~90 mins (per battery, 2 included) | Battery Life: ~70–90 mins (Enduro battery) |
| Waterproof Depth: 10m (33ft) without case | Waterproof Depth: 10m (33ft) without case |
| App & Connectivity: AKASO GO (basic, inconsistent) | App & Connectivity: GoPro Quik (robust, cloud + wireless sync) |
| Amazon Price | Amazon Price |
Is This Camera Right for You?
Who Should Buy It
- Budget-conscious creators seeking rich features without the GoPro price tag, often nearly $100 cheaper at launch.
- Casual vloggers and travelers wanting dual screens, good video performance, and portability.
- Outdoor enthusiasts needing waterproof, rugged gear for action sports.
- Value seekers appreciating the included accessories and strong specs-for-price ratio.
AKASO Brave 8
The AKASO Brave 8 is a compelling budget-friendly action cam that delivers high-res video, decent stabilization, and great value through its accessories and dual screens.
Who Should Skip It
- Professional users demanding best-in-class stabilization, audio, and build quality—GoPro still leads there.
- Those who rely on app performance – many found the software and app lag behind hardware potential.
- Low-light shooters – image quality suffers noticeably in dim conditions.
- Users wanting flawless stabilization -SuperSmooth is decent, but not on par with GoPro’s Hypersmooth or DJI’s RockSteady.
User Review Highlights
Positive Reviews
- Gearography praises the Brave 8 as an affordable, full-featured contender: “great option … 4k/60 fps, 8k timelapse, 48 MP stills… adds nicely to this camera’s value”.
- Best Buy user notes: “Great action cam. User friendly buttons and touchscreen menu. Many customizations… didn’t have to pay a Go-Pro price” .
- TechRadar (2025, for Brave 8 Lite) calls the Lite version “the best cheap action camera you can buy… fantastic value… well-built”.
Critical Feedback
- Tom’s Guide criticizes poor stabilization, subpar internal audio, and cheap build, concluding it doesn’t justify its price.
- Digital Camera World says that while photo/video are strong, the app and stabilization hold it back.
- T3 laments that software issues and build quality detract from great hardware; also noted it’s not much cheaper than GoPro.
- Tech4All points out lens softness in corners and lack of shutter-speed control or 24fps option.
Final Verdict
The AKASO Brave 8 delivers impressive specs and rich features at a compelling price—perfect for casual users, adventure seekers, and budget creators. Its strong point is hardware value: dual screens, 48 MP stills, 4K/60fps, and a generous accessory pack make it hard to beat on price-per-feature.
However, if you’re a pro-level creator, rely on buttery-smooth stabilization, prioritize low-light performance, or expect flawless software, GoPro or DJI models remain the superior choices.
In short, Brave 8 is a smart, fun, and affordable tool, for many, enough camera to get the job done without breaking the bank.
FAQs
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What is the battery life like?
On a single 1550 mAh battery, expect ~90 minutes of video recording; two batteries included doubles that runtime. You can also charge it with a power bank during use.
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Does it come with mounts/accessories?
Yes, includes dual batteries, charger, remote, multiple mounts, tethers, frame, and USB-C cable right in the box.
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How good is the stabilization?
Offers “SuperSmooth” electronic stabilization. It helps, but isn’t as effective as GoPro’s Hypersmooth. Best results in moderate motion.
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Can I shoot in low-light?
Low-light performance is limited. Images get noisy and video loses detailtyp, ical of small sensors, especially at this price point.
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Does it support 24fps or shutter-speed settings?
No. It lacks 24fps output and fine shutter-speed control, long-exposure options are limited to fixed presets.
