Mark - I live in the UK, but am going on a trip to New Zealand, Australia and the Fiji islands for some diving. I started preparing for this trip a year or so ago and subscribed to your channel about the same time. At that point, I didn't have a clue about action cams. Your videos have been exemplary and have given me an in depth understanding of the whole topic. Your videos have the professional edge that a lot of others lack. Great job! Anyway, after months of faffing I've decided to go with the Hero 4 silver for my trip. Congratulations on the engagement by the way.
Duong To No i dont....BUT WHAT DO U WRITED?! sony cam IN the hero 4? in? but whats in? and not win, becouse winner. U writed wtf, i dont know what did u mean.
Just started reviewing the FDR-Sony X3000V and it seems perfect. We'll have more soon but the optical stabilizer at 4K is amazing and built in mic port.
The latest SJCAM SJ7 has the best Sony camera module available. Banggood are now accepting orders: www.banggood.com/SJCAM-SJ7-STAR-4K-WIFI-Action-Camera-SONY-IMX117-CMOS-2_0-Inch-LCD-Sport-DV-Ambarella-A12S75-p-1087999.html?p=JQ26191551677201504Z
Finally someone isn't giving a biased review based on action cameras. Every video I have watched before this is over-glorifying the GoPro. FYI I have used both GoPro black and sony 1000 (both 4k) and love them both. Nevertheless I would say if you are into extreme sports (white water rafting, free diving, etc) go with the gopro! If you are into motor sports or DH biking go with the Sony.
+sdpy15 One of my biggest point is there isn't really an overall winner in the Action Camera market. Some cameras are better for certain things. Really important look at the type of adventures you want to go on and choose the camera the complements what;s important for you. Thanks for the feedback :D
Good overall summary and review of the best 2015 action cam choices. Thanks, and looking forward to your 2016 reviews. First big announcement event is Jan 5 in Vegas, when Sony is set to showcase their new cameras. And maybe Gopro, too. 4K at 60 FPS, here we come. I have my 4K Smart TV now, so am ready...
I've always been a GoPro guy, but for motovlogging + ATV heavy mudding, I'm starting to consider the Garmin Virb XE or the Sony models (stabilization + night capabilities). I'm thinking about getting the AS200V. Am I on the right track or would you consider another model?
I really dig the SJ8000 for the price and it has a Sony Exmor sensor, which is why I purchased it. I kept hearing about the yellowish colors on most of the othere generic gopro knock offs. But since it has that Sony sensor. Colors look fantastic!
hey. I'm a "action camera noob". i like to ride my bike (bicycle) around in my busy city. I'm looking to buy 1, and it will be my first one. can you suggest a certain brand&model for me? I'm currently looking at a EKEN A9, its like 90$ where i live. Thanks :)
Hello Mark !! My GoPro hero 4 silver i should use most on motorcycle ....witch settings should i use / your recomendation ....on the other hand garmin virb xe was on my list to buy but big minus is no reserv battery and thats why i buyed gopro instead
Thanks for the review. I am on my 4th Hero 4 silver. total video time about 6 hours. I have replaced every battery, SD card. It has not been wet, roughed up. Within seconds to several minutes the camera becomes totally unresponsive. GoPro has been little help beyond sending a new camera three times. What is killing it? Me? My computer (Corel software, Windows 7, Recent GoPro update would not load due to a graphics conflict (computer is old))?
Is the only issue that the camera is un-responsive? Any video issues that you're seeing? What are they(Gopro) sending you back? Is it a new camera or the same one refurbished? Do the issues only happen when you try and re-start and are you using the PC to update or phone? Also what micro SD cards are you using (might be useful too). Ansawer as many of these here and I'll try and line it up with what others have run into.
I haven't noticed if they sent the same camera back but I don't think so. Usually the video or audio becomes erratic before the unit will not respond to any combination or variety of stimuli. I thought the wasabi batteries might be a problem and stopped using the battery and charger. This camera used the same (but new) SD Scandisk Extreme Plus 32. So far the only common element is the computer (laptop - Old?) I deleted GoPro and tried re-loading and it failed.
I am not an expert or even close but I have heard the sony is a little "fish-eyed but less jumpy. In either case studio quality is not what we are after?
I use "Corel Video Studio Pro X8 Ultimate" to edit and output 100Mbps files of the FDR X1000 - also I correct the lense distortion with this software which looks like this: actioncam.nicmd.de/lensedistortion.jpg
HI, I was trying to find a good sports camera that does the 4k at full 60fps, but is there a camera that can do 4k at 120 fps? I was at best buy and the clerk said the gopro black could do 4k at 60fps, but when i checked the specs, looks like it cannot. if you could comment on what is available? that would be great. Also, is it possible to use an android or ipad tablet, like a 10" and stream video from one of these cameras? its been over 10 years since i looked close at what digital cameras offer.
+Bradley R That's about 2-3 years out. Doubt we'd see any 4k 60fps by even end of 2017. Even high end cameras that cost a couple thousand have a hard time running 4k past 30fps. What you want comes from something called a RED EPIC but that's a professional camera with a very high price tag. You actually might want to check out something like a Panasonic G4 DSLR. The image sensor on the G4 will blow a lot of action cameras out of the water. The detail you can get out of something like a DSLR at sub 4k resolutions will beat out the action camera's tiny image sensor even at 4k. Other then that your best bet is a GoPro Hero4 Black which can do 1080p at 120fps or a Sony X1000V which has the same specs.
great video! That is a hell of a lot of information to compress into under 15 minutes. well done. No doubt anyone looking to buy an action camera should watch this first.
hey I know this is almost a year old but I'm trying to buy a action cam and I need it for my car i go to the track alot but also I need it to be good for spear fishing is the Garmin a good 1 for both
Hold off about a 3-4 weeks. Everyone is releasing new cameras this month including Yi 4k, Garmin Ultra 30, Sony X3000, Sony AS300, Drift Ghost 4k, and GoPro Hero5... to name just a few.
I'd like to know which cameras support an external microphone. I would have thought that was quite an important item to include in a review. I'll have to check each one individually.
+wreckanoid Sony AZ1, Polaroid Cube, and GoPro Hero4 Session are the only ones I can think of that wouldn't support an external mic. Thought I mentioned it on the AZ1. The Yi and Hero+LCD might have issues with an external mic but I could be wrong on that. All others support 3rd part mics. Hope this helps.
+trevor wiltrout I'd say any of the high end GoPro's (4 Silver/Black), Sony AS200 or X1000V, or the Garmin Virb-XE. Each has it's pros and cons but I'd be choosing between these 3.
Hi There, can you please tell me what the 3 connections are at the bottom of the Sony AS200V. I am assuming the red one is for power and the one on the left is HDMI but what is the one in the middle. Thank you Jenny
Great video! Your action cam reviews are probably the best I've seen on UA-cam, really thorough. Any thoughts on the Firefly 6S (with it's latest firmware)?
+Fredrik Waara Thanks :D Might have responded in another area but haven't had a chance to mess with the Firefly 6S. Trying to reach out to some people about it though. Wouldn't be for awhile though.
I'm in doubt between the as200 and the gopro hero 4 I will be using the camera for airsoft. Quality wise I would definitely pick the as200. But the gopro is already so popular in the sport, that there are already several mounting options, where the as200 would only have the "on the side" mounting option. Which camera would you choose for airsoft?
+Humswa I use the VIO POV HD for Paintball. It's an older camera and have some issues but I love being able to center mount it to my head. It was designed with military use in mind so it's really tough and low profile. runs of 6 AA batteries too. I carry a few rechargeable ones with me when I go. The Hero4 Sesson is really easy to mount to your mask or marker. The field of view options are good too. The Sony Az1 is small but the design might limit it to only gun mounting. But if you don't mind side of head it's light with built in digital stabilization. AS200 is strictly a side of head or gun mount but same strengths as the AZ1. You could also check out some newer Panasonic HX500 (name might be wrong) cameras that have the same design as the VIO POV but their battery life is pretty poor and I had some consistency issues.
amazing review.one of the best i heard...i am actually looking for an action camera for shooting mostly gym crossfit workouts, and whenever i travel, but mostly gym...from your review and as i suspected the gopro hero 4 is the best and expensive...would you recommend something else for my use?
+Laerte Rocha Mic input? someone else asked this question here in the comments. If it's which has the best microphone, depends on what you want to use it for. GoPro's are great all around and Sony's is amazing for instruments. I did write a list of all the cameras here with external mic inputs though.
So many choices.. What camera would you guys recommend for a motorcycle helmet mount for insurance purposes? Priorities are battery life, good lowlight performance, water proof, 1080p/30fps, low profile design. My current choice is one of the Sony cameras but they have 4 models to choose from..
+6Twisted I'd suggest the AS200V. Great consistent results during multiple times throughout the day, sharp, durable, and affordable. Sony has a new camera the "Sony AS50" coming out February 21st that might also be a good choice too ($199). It has a variable zoom which might also help showcase license plates instead of the side of your helmet. We'll have some videos on it once we get it.
Help me please. I'm a go kart racer who appreciates bang for buck, most bothered about video and sound quality and not keen to spend an extra £200 for 4K. Is the Hero plus the best option for me? Not necessarily the LCD version
Anas Malas u can't compar the AS50 vs the Sony FDR-X1000V.....the AS50 is a mid range action Cam from Sony...it record in full HD at 50 Mbits/s and can do a 4K Time Lapse.... but the new, is that the AS50 is the first action cam who have a X3 Zoom on it.. all those cameras are for action condition use, so the most important need from them is: -a real stable video with the minimum vibration -a good quality resolution. the Sony is God of stabilisation, even it smartphones xperia do a better job then any action camera in the market lol, in the same time, Sony have the best image quality... and don't listen 2 all trolls who says that they buy GoPro camera only for accessories, it exist an adaptor who cost 2$ with what u can use all GoPro mount/grip for Sony cam.. buy Sony man, you'll not regret your choice..
Dem Haitam the AS50, unfortunately, does not have any sort of optical zoom. It has digital zoom... I, like OP, dont have much budget and want a good value camera, so I think the AS50 is best!
Anas Malas yes it's a digital Zoom, and the first time an action cam use it... if for ur money, u have 2 know that u'll receive with the Sony AS50 only 1 adaptator 2 use Gopro or other grip, a waterproof case and that's all... if u don't have accessories, think about the Sony 200 full pack who's priced only a few $ more
Quite honestly, this whole video went over my head as I don't know much about this field of technology though I'd like to start. With CyberMonday right around the corner there's probably some sick deals on cameras so I'd very much appreciate your help or the help of anyone who sees this post in time for that. I anticipate becoming a helicopter pilot for the US Army and also flying for a commercial airline as a profession in the next few years. I love riding my motorcycle and would use it while riding for sure. I also enjoy hiking, jogging, mountain biking, cliff jumping and whatnot. Luckily, price isn't a limiting factor. I use a Macbook Pro. Considering all of this what would you suggest I purchase?
+Len k Haven't been able to get a hold of the Ricoh WG-M1. I'll see what I can do but funds have been tight recently. Trying to reach out where I can. Just need some support :D
Excellent review, I'd like the GoPro SILVER but the price is... thought of the Session who seems well priced now; SONY too but too bulky for my taste, those action cams are very high budget for the scope of their use; I remember the first GoPro HERO who was 250€ at the time, not cheap but still affordable.
your action can comparison videos are very helpful, but here i just found out that you never use or mention the GPS function of sony actioncams. I think it is nice to compare with garmin one!
You can get it from Banggood, for 139 dollars. you can reduce the cost of it to 108 dollars using the code "GitUp". This is where im getting it. I also contacted the Gitup company saying if banggood is a good site to buy from, and they replied that it is no problem to buy from there
just got the hero 4 silver for my trip to Korea and Japan next month. Pumped! Any recommendations for settings for best quality photos and vids? I wanted to wait for the hero 5 but not sure when that is coming out. I will probably end up getting that too.
Bought Sony AS200V last year and I was so happy that it has image stabilizer cuz I do a lot of extreme sports too bad Sony didn't market it right. Almost bought GoPro until I realized it does not have IS.
i just got the as200v aswell, but what i'm wondering is the shape of it. u can't really mount it in ur chest or anything like that. what do u think about that and do u only use helmet mount?
which one able to capture good fast action photo with the less motion blur . i found out that the burst mode cant actually provide a good photo outcome , and almost all burst mode photo will become motion blur when it come to mid air action capturing . i still cant figure out how the hell those mid air action pose capture without motion blur ...
+wong woon Hero4 Black and Silver can do 30 frames at 12mp photo in 1 second. Should eliminate most motion blur. If you are filming video make sure "Auto Light" is turned off and you have enough light for 60fps to 120fps.
+NETVO TV It's served me well over the last year. Saved my butt recently as good back up camera for something I was recording as well. Pretty happy with it overall especially if I'd gotten for the price you can now.
hi mark what is the best cheap camera that fillm also in low light cause i got the eken h9 but its bad in low light do you reccomend on the xiaomi yi adter audio and foucs fixs?
Can you do a sjcam hd vs hero comparison? You seem to do a lot of GoPro comps but non with the camera that looks just like it. Or did I just missed the vids?
+gundampigeon I've picked up 2 SJCams in the 2014/2015. Just never liked any of them too much in terms of image quality. I had built this huge 6 camera side by side rig to test a bunch budget action cameras but I never finished it. Kept running into issues and it just kept getting delayed till the point I gave up. Just never had a huge passion to go back to the SJcams.The Yi just blew away what I expected in a budget action cam but I've considered revisiting budget cams recently. A lot of really bad ones are being rebranded these days and passed off as other cameras we've reviewed. Just need to get the funds to pick up a bunch of these cameras and do another budget camera face off.
Mark, are you going to test the HDR-AS50R? Would love to see how well the zoom works and some of the other new features. The 4K stills movie would be neat, too. Also the new remote?
+MarkHawkCam I see the manuals for the AS50 are now finally available on the support site. Looks good. Remote power on, separating angle view from Steady Shot for videos, zoom, and flat lens case are all good features. But a couple things are still not clear to me. The previous white action cam models were splash proof without a case. This one does not appear to be so. Is that correct? The Angle settings are Wide or Narrow. Previously these were specified as 170 degrees and 120 degrees which are actually ultra wide and wide. There was no narrow. What are the angle settings in the AS50 in degrees? Hopefully, you can get these questions answered for us, Mark.
+LamboBen 93 (Lamboben93) Here is a GoPro dive comparison we did: ua-cam.com/video/4MAe7Q9oFTk/v-deo.html Here is a lower end Sony Camera video we did with wild Dolphins at Catalina island. ua-cam.com/video/7FiL5ZM3XWk/v-deo.html
@markhawkcam Hi Mark! i appreciate all of your knowledge, bc i do not have knowledge in this area but i am ready to purchase an action camera!.. May i ask you for ur suggestion if my main use for the camera will be for underwater free diving?
Great job Mark! I just subscribed after watching nearly all your videos and a ton more of others on UA-cam. I need the best bang for the buck (like most) for use on rough trails with my Side-by-Side ATV but I also want to replace my aging Canon S3 DSLR camera. Right now I am leaning heavily to the Sony HDR AS200VR as the remote "watch" feature would really be handy on those long rides of 8 hours or so when you only would want to record certain parts of the ride. The Garmin VIRB XE is also in the running. But now I just saw the difference with the new Sony FDR-X1000 and would like your opinion on the "still" picture quality between the three if you would be so kind.. Mind you that I am coming from a 5MP camera (Canon S3) and an iPhone6.. Thank you again for great reviews!
+rvandeloo Sorry for the delay. Bad thing about that remote for the Sony cameras is it kills the battery pretty fast. You are looking about a 33% drain and it can't turn the camera on. I think only off. It's honestly not worth the battery life for me especially when I can't control the on/off option. VIRB-XE is great for vehicles. If you don't need the view finder, this would be my selection BUT the battery life isn't great either. The Hero4 Silver doesn't have the features like stabilization or stat tracking but it does have the battery life. It's low power state when it's not recording is awesome and the video quality is good too. It has an LCD screen on the back that doesn't impact the battery life but there are lots of 3rd party wrist mounts or official remotes out there too. It's a ton of options but I'd pick which feature are key to not getting in the way of what you love. Great footage follows easy after. Let me know what you end up going with and what you thought after you had some time with it. :D
+Kamen Zagorov Was not a fan of the SJ4000 or 4500 in the past. Haven't had any experience with the Z10. Listed the ones I thought were worth buying going into 2015/2016.
+Jesse Sanchez I posted this to another user earlier today: I use the VIO POV HD for Paintball. It's an older camera and has some issues but I love being able to center mount it to my head. It was designed with military use in mind so it's really tough and low profile. runs of 6 AA batteries too. I carry a few rechargeable ones with me when I go. The Hero4 Sesson is really easy to mount to your mask or marker. The field of view options are good too but not might last you an entire day. You'd need to buy a USB battery backup for tablets like the Jackery for $20 and charge it during lunch. The Sony Az1 is small but the design might limit it to only gun mounting. But if you don't mind side of head it's light with built in digital stabilization. AS200 is strictly a side of head or gun mount but same strengths as the AZ1. You could also check out some newer Panasonic HX500 (name might be wrong) cameras that have the same design as the VIO POV but their battery life is pretty poor and I had some consistency issues.
What is the chapest option of Sony AS cams memory cards for that professional mode? (can´t remember the name of the formate, you said it in one of your vids but I can´t find it)
Check the more information section below the video for links to user and my recommendations. You'll want a XC formated card (Not HC) which are often limited to 64gb or bigger. Lexark and Sandisk are my go to brand but I've also had luck with transcend micro sd lately but just starting to play with them.
+Christian Dinero Depends on the event for me honestly. Hero4 Silver is my favorite all around camera even though in noth the strongest in all areas. The X1000V also hasn't seen a lot of support from sony in the year it's been on market. Still a strong camera but missed opportunity. That being said I used the X1000V to record audio of an important event today.
+John Graboski I'd go for the AZ1 because how light it is or the AS200V if you want some extra features and good quality bump. However if you can wait, Sony just announced a new camera coming out in February called the Sony AS50R. Could be a good pick up or help drop the price of the AS200 line of cameras. Features 4k, field of view options, and all the other good around $350.
+MarkHawkCam Mark, you are great! thanks for taking the time to answer. I heard really good things about either the gopro 3+ or 4+ but simply really have grown to appreciate Sony quality. A+ for you!
Hi Mark, thank you for putting all this time and effort into these videos. I want to get a camera for my helmet for motorcycle riding. I'm leaning towards a sony , but can't solidify my decision. do you have any recommendations?
+Emphase I just picked up the Sony FDRX1000V yesterday for the same purpose. In Aus they are now $349, whilst the Go pro Hero 4 Silver is still at $550.00. The only negative I see so far is the Sony is almost impossible to chin mount due to its shape. You can also add pieces of the Go pro mounting system to it if required, as they are interconnectable.
+EASYMCZ thanks EASYMCZ, yeah that's also one thing i was wondering. I like watching the chin-mount videos the best but i also prefer the sonys. let me know what you end up doing for mounting on that nice camera. excellent price too! I was thinking the as200 since its $200 right now, but i haven't seen the fdr1000v for 350 yet
+Emphase I agree, chin mount footage looks the best and Go Pro have that covered. Im gonna try it with mine and see how it goes, I think the AS200 is smaller and lighter may be ok for it. I also heard there is another GoPro coming out soon, hopefully will see a nice price drop if that happens. I am a Sony fan too, but would have gone GoPro if the price was more realistic.
Great on battery life and rotatable lens. Just found it's video quality to offer nothing to special, it's price was still pretty high when I made this video, and it's really heavy in my opinion. It's not a bad camera but just didn't make the cut for this video.
Thanks, point taken, there are only so many cameras that you can review in one video, you have to draw the line somewhere. Though to be fair, I don't think 171 g is 'really' heavy compared to 177 g for the Garmin Virb XE or 152g for a GoPro Hero 4 (with housing). Yes, battery life is good; I'm getting 3 hours recording out of one charge. Maybe that is why it is a few grams heavier? My only concern about video quality with the Ghost is its susceptibility to jello wobble. You have to mount it securely if you are expecting a bumpy ride. The price I paid is less than for a Hero 4.
thank you, I often stopping to read all sub, but I understood finally, buy sony. In first time thought go pro best. But sony make new upgrades very quickly and cool. Can you help? which of sony do you take?(budget whatever)
I normally choose between bringing the AS200 or AS50. Those are my 2 go tos. However, Sony has released the new FDR-X3000 and HDR-AS300 in Japan. Really excited for these to come stateside.
+Daryl Pudlo Sony AZ1, Polaroid Cube, and GoPro Hero4 Session are the only ones I can think of that wouldn't support an external mic. Thought I mentioned it on the AZ1. The Yi and Hero+LCD might have issues with an external mic but I could be wrong on that. All others support 3rd part mics. Hope this helps.
+Garit Heaton As200V, Garmin Virb-XE (supports Bluetooth and wired mics), or Gopro hero4 Silver (with maybe Removu's upcoming Bluetooth mic system or wired mic)
+MarkHawkCam Watched several of your videos multiple times, the info is really great. I really wanted the Session but the option to have an external mic and better image quality has made me decide on the hero 4 silver i think. one last question though, i wont need it till next summer, will anything new be out by then? should i wait and see? thanks again.
If you can I'd wait. 1st Quarter GoPro is putting out the GoPro Karma, VR rig, and I suspect a gimbal. There is a good chance something else might sneak out but it's anyone's guess. Lots of rumors and nothing clear except the VR rig and Karma
Will be in the EU warehouse again soon. www.banggood.com/GitUp-Git2-2K-WiFi-Action-1440P-1_5-inches-LCD-Novatek-96660-Chipset-IMX206-16_0MP-Image-Sensor-p-1007770.html?p=2O21111526893201504H Look forward to your review. I love my Xiaomi Yi but I feel it now no longer makes economic sense. By the time you have bought the mounts , waterproof case etc you can soon find you have spent near what the cam cost again.
X1000v also can alternate between 170/120 FOV which corrects the distortion. Also its water resistant without the case. It has O-rings on all doors. I've just used it on a 6 day motorcycle trip in torrential rain with no issues. You do need to use the software to attain the GPS dat. Also you will need a U3 SD card to record in the higher bitrate modes. I.e. no 4k on the sony without a U3 card, it'll give you a media error. here is an example where you can really see the image stabilization against the helmet. ua-cam.com/video/bWFl4ZImcqI/v-deo.html main issues with it I see is the menu is a little slow, better to use the smartphone app to setup and control. Also the underwater case it comes with you need to spend an extra $30 to get that planar dive door. The case is really for protection and water rather than diving by default. Great video cheers.
I've really enjoy Xiaomi and it's smartphones and I would really like to buy the Yi. But the only thing that stops me is that there's no screen, the sound of some recordings I've seen here in youtube, and the lack of accessories when you get it. I've been looking at SJCAM products and SJ5000X Elite seems like a great deal. What's your opinion for this one over the Yi?
+Voliminal You can pick up a cheap pack of accessories anywhere so I wouldn't let that part stop you. I used a few of the older SJAM earlier in the year and found the quality to be towards the bottom in consistency and quality. Bad battery latches, ridged buttons, and poor quality footage. Quality wise I rated it close to the original Polaroid Cube. Crunches the values pretty hard but unlike the cube, the color was way off on the SJCAM. Also the UI was just filled with so many options it made navigating it a nightmare. I filmed a 6 way budget camera face off but never finished it. I'd buy a Yi at twice it's normal price over some of the SJCams I used toward the beginning of 2015. LCD screen was nice but the field of view on these cameras in so wide you very rarely miss capturing what you aim too.
+MarkHawkCam I can see colors on SJCAMs are not that "alive". Yesterday I saw Git2 and was really impressed with it. Never seen it before. Also gyro on Git2 got me hooked! How about Git2 over the Yi?
Mark - I live in the UK, but am going on a trip to New Zealand, Australia and the Fiji islands for some diving. I started preparing for this trip a year or so ago and subscribed to your channel about the same time. At that point, I didn't have a clue about action cams. Your videos have been exemplary and have given me an in depth understanding of the whole topic. Your videos have the professional edge that a lot of others lack. Great job! Anyway, after months of faffing I've decided to go with the Hero 4 silver for my trip. Congratulations on the engagement by the way.
+CyberWookiee Thanks :D Let me know how it went after you had some time with in New Zealand
Sony cam in the hero 4 session form factor would be a win
session is shit not camera...
+Moto Ja do you understand?
Duong To No i dont....BUT WHAT DO U WRITED?! sony cam IN the hero 4? in? but whats in? and not win, becouse winner. U writed wtf, i dont know what did u mean.
do you even understand English. He said:" in session 4 form factor" understand what it mean than talk trash about a camera?
Duong To Ahhh, i thought it was factorY. yeah but only with factor, not in real recording.
these tech reviews are killer man, keep doing what your doing!
Will any Sony camera be good for moto and travel vlogging, or i should go for GoPro??
Just started reviewing the FDR-Sony X3000V and it seems perfect. We'll have more soon but the optical stabilizer at 4K is amazing and built in mic port.
MarkHawkCam
thanx...
one more question, will Gopro mounts work for Sony cams?
In a lot of cases yes. You'll need a GoPro to tripod adapter. I use RECmounts from Amazon but PolarPro has some as well. amzn.to/2ckLK3R
thank u very much.... :D
The latest SJCAM SJ7 has the best Sony camera module available. Banggood are now accepting orders: www.banggood.com/SJCAM-SJ7-STAR-4K-WIFI-Action-Camera-SONY-IMX117-CMOS-2_0-Inch-LCD-Sport-DV-Ambarella-A12S75-p-1087999.html?p=JQ26191551677201504Z
It is a great video that cover almost all action cameras in the market, thank you!
What do you think about Xiaomi YI 4k vs GoPro Hero 4 Silver ? What is better ?
Finally someone isn't giving a biased review based on action cameras. Every video I have watched before this is over-glorifying the GoPro.
FYI I have used both GoPro black and sony 1000 (both 4k) and love them both. Nevertheless I would say if you are into extreme sports (white water rafting, free diving, etc) go with the gopro! If you are into motor sports or DH biking go with the Sony.
+sdpy15 One of my biggest point is there isn't really an overall winner in the Action Camera market. Some cameras are better for certain things. Really important look at the type of adventures you want to go on and choose the camera the complements what;s important for you.
Thanks for the feedback :D
Can you do a video on the best action cameras of 2017/2018? A lot of new stuff since this video was made
this was one of the best review videos on here
Thanks :D
Thanks for your work! I got xiaomi but After your video I will go for sony x1000v. Many thanks
Good overall summary and review of the best 2015 action cam choices. Thanks, and looking forward to your 2016 reviews. First big announcement event is Jan 5 in Vegas, when Sony is set to showcase their new cameras. And maybe Gopro, too. 4K at 60 FPS, here we come. I have my 4K Smart TV now, so am ready...
Hi there. Thanks for the video. Yesterday i just get my xiaomi yi and updated the firmware. now its capable of recording 2k at 30fps
I've always been a GoPro guy, but for motovlogging + ATV heavy mudding, I'm starting to consider the Garmin Virb XE or the Sony models (stabilization + night capabilities). I'm thinking about getting the AS200V. Am I on the right track or would you consider another model?
I really dig the SJ8000 for the price and it has a Sony Exmor sensor, which is why I purchased it. I kept hearing about the yellowish colors on most of the othere generic gopro knock offs. But since it has that Sony sensor. Colors look fantastic!
hey. I'm a "action camera noob". i like to ride my bike (bicycle) around in my busy city. I'm looking to buy 1, and it will be my first one. can you suggest a certain brand&model for me? I'm currently looking at a EKEN A9, its like 90$ where i live. Thanks :)
Great video🤗, good luck man your a good creator
Thank you for making this video. Very informative and good research :)
Hello Mark !! My GoPro hero 4 silver i should use most on motorcycle ....witch settings should i use / your recomendation ....on the other hand garmin virb xe was on my list to buy but big minus is no reserv battery and thats why i buyed gopro instead
Thanks for the review. I am on my 4th Hero 4 silver. total video time about 6 hours. I have replaced every battery, SD card. It has not been wet, roughed up. Within seconds to several minutes the camera becomes totally unresponsive. GoPro has been little help beyond sending a new camera three times. What is killing it? Me? My computer (Corel software, Windows 7, Recent GoPro update would not load due to a graphics conflict (computer is old))?
Is the only issue that the camera is un-responsive? Any video issues that you're seeing? What are they(Gopro) sending you back? Is it a new camera or the same one refurbished? Do the issues only happen when you try and re-start and are you using the PC to update or phone? Also what micro SD cards are you using (might be useful too).
Ansawer as many of these here and I'll try and line it up with what others have run into.
I haven't noticed if they sent the same camera back but I don't think so. Usually the video or audio becomes erratic before the unit will not respond to any combination or variety of stimuli. I thought the wasabi batteries might be a problem and stopped using the battery and charger. This camera used the same (but new) SD Scandisk Extreme Plus 32. So far the only common element is the computer (laptop - Old?) I deleted GoPro and tried re-loading and it failed.
Thinking of your Sony pick. I intend to be sailing on salt water.
Which action camera is better for video quality: GoPro Hero Session or Sony Action Cam Mini?
I am not an expert or even close but I have heard the sony is a little "fish-eyed but less jumpy. In either case studio quality is not what we are after?
Really helpful comparison of cameras, thanks for sharing =)
what is the best action helmet cam for 2017. would prefer no image distortion so I don't require post edited to remove. Moto vlogging. thx
I use "Corel Video Studio Pro X8 Ultimate" to edit and output 100Mbps files of the FDR X1000 - also I correct the lense distortion with this software which looks like this: actioncam.nicmd.de/lensedistortion.jpg
+NicMediaDesign done
MarkHawkCam Thanks
@11:26, left to right, what are the cameras?
AZ1, AS200, X1000. don't know, don't know, top - virb, bottom gopro?
AZ1, AS200, X1000, Contour+2, TomTomVirb, Garmin Virb XE, GoPro Hero4
I'm confuse between these two. Which one better for travel recording, scenery footage. Sony HDR-AS200V or Sony HDR-AS50
gr8t comparison and good work ,keep it up man....
which one is best smallest cam to be mounted on helmet please? don't feel like having those huge cams mounted on my helm.
Thanks for the reviews, good summary.
+Peter Binamira Thanks for the feedback and no worries :D
HI, I was trying to find a good sports camera that does the 4k at full 60fps, but is there a camera that can do 4k at 120 fps?
I was at best buy and the clerk said the gopro black could do 4k at 60fps, but when i checked the specs, looks like it cannot. if you could comment on what is available? that would be great.
Also, is it possible to use an android or ipad tablet, like a 10" and stream video from one of these cameras? its been over 10 years since i looked close at what digital cameras offer.
+Bradley R That's about 2-3 years out. Doubt we'd see any 4k 60fps by even end of 2017. Even high end cameras that cost a couple thousand have a hard time running 4k past 30fps. What you want comes from something called a RED EPIC but that's a professional camera with a very high price tag.
You actually might want to check out something like a Panasonic G4 DSLR. The image sensor on the G4 will blow a lot of action cameras out of the water. The detail you can get out of something like a DSLR at sub 4k resolutions will beat out the action camera's tiny image sensor even at 4k.
Other then that your best bet is a GoPro Hero4 Black which can do 1080p at 120fps or a Sony X1000V which has the same specs.
great video! That is a hell of a lot of information to compress into under 15 minutes. well done. No doubt anyone looking to buy an action camera should watch this first.
+One Brothers Productions First try clocked in at 46 minutes... :p
will Xiaomi yi camera be good for motovlogging? what I need is quality and a wide FOV, so you can see everything, handlebar, everything around
Kermit the frog giving us a camera review 😂
hey I know this is almost a year old but I'm trying to buy a action cam and I need it for my car i go to the track alot but also I need it to be good for spear fishing is the Garmin a good 1 for both
also it need to be good with vibrations which of all of these do you guys recommend
Hold off about a 3-4 weeks. Everyone is releasing new cameras this month including Yi 4k, Garmin Ultra 30, Sony X3000, Sony AS300, Drift Ghost 4k, and GoPro Hero5... to name just a few.
I'd like to know which cameras support an external microphone. I would have thought that was quite an important item to include in a review. I'll have to check each one individually.
+wreckanoid Sony AZ1, Polaroid Cube, and GoPro Hero4 Session are the only ones I can think of that wouldn't support an external mic. Thought I mentioned it on the AZ1. The Yi and Hero+LCD might have issues with an external mic but I could be wrong on that. All others support 3rd part mics. Hope this helps.
I agree what is a good camera that can still have good quality at high speeds and that I can connect a mic to the camera to my helmet so I can blog
+trevor wiltrout I'd say any of the high end GoPro's (4 Silver/Black), Sony AS200 or X1000V, or the Garmin Virb-XE. Each has it's pros and cons but I'd be choosing between these 3.
Can You maybe review annox gold edition action camera.. Its should be great
great compare.slow down a bit...unfamiliar with these products,we are learning what you already know.
Thank you so much for posting this video. You are the best
+Tony Mai Appreciate the feedback :D
Hi There, can you please tell me what the 3 connections are at the bottom of the Sony AS200V. I am assuming the red one is for power and the one on the left is HDMI but what is the one in the middle. Thank you Jenny
which sport cam will be the best for moto vlog for starting.....
Great video! Your action cam reviews are probably the best I've seen on UA-cam, really thorough. Any thoughts on the Firefly 6S (with it's latest firmware)?
+Fredrik Waara Thanks :D Might have responded in another area but haven't had a chance to mess with the Firefly 6S. Trying to reach out to some people about it though. Wouldn't be for awhile though.
I'm in doubt between the as200 and the gopro hero 4 I will be using the camera for airsoft. Quality wise I would definitely pick the as200. But the gopro is already so popular in the sport, that there are already several mounting options, where the as200 would only have the "on the side" mounting option.
Which camera would you choose for airsoft?
+Humswa I use the VIO POV HD for Paintball. It's an older camera and have some issues but I love being able to center mount it to my head. It was designed with military use in mind so it's really tough and low profile. runs of 6 AA batteries too. I carry a few rechargeable ones with me when I go. The Hero4 Sesson is really easy to mount to your mask or marker. The field of view options are good too. The Sony Az1 is small but the design might limit it to only gun mounting. But if you don't mind side of head it's light with built in digital stabilization. AS200 is strictly a side of head or gun mount but same strengths as the AZ1. You could also check out some newer Panasonic HX500 (name might be wrong) cameras that have the same design as the VIO POV but their battery life is pretty poor and I had some consistency issues.
I use a fitfort 4k wifi action camera
should I get the yi or Polaroid cube plus
really good reviews
amazing review.one of the best i heard...i am actually looking for an action camera for shooting mostly gym crossfit workouts, and whenever i travel, but mostly gym...from your review and as i suspected the gopro hero 4 is the best and expensive...would you recommend something else for my use?
How does JVC GC-XA2 Adixxion compares with low budget cameras? I could get one for 80$.
Thanks for the cameras review.My question is What's the Best Action Cameras out there with mic ??
+Laerte Rocha Mic input? someone else asked this question here in the comments. If it's which has the best microphone, depends on what you want to use it for. GoPro's are great all around and Sony's is amazing for instruments. I did write a list of all the cameras here with external mic inputs though.
Have a look at the Dazzne P3 & ASX ActionPro-X budget cameras. I'd like to se them reviewed & compared with the Hero 4 Silver.
+Mark Kanzler I'll see what I can do. Thanks for the suggestions. :D
So many choices.. What camera would you guys recommend for a motorcycle helmet mount for insurance purposes? Priorities are battery life, good lowlight performance, water proof, 1080p/30fps, low profile design. My current choice is one of the Sony cameras but they have 4 models to choose from..
+6Twisted I'd suggest the AS200V. Great consistent results during multiple times throughout the day, sharp, durable, and affordable. Sony has a new camera the "Sony AS50" coming out February 21st that might also be a good choice too ($199). It has a variable zoom which might also help showcase license plates instead of the side of your helmet. We'll have some videos on it once we get it.
MarkHawkCam Thanks, the AS50 looks good apart from not having GPS and I don't think it's splashproof either. I will probably go with the AS200V.
Help me please. I'm a go kart racer who appreciates bang for buck, most bothered about video and sound quality and not keen to spend an extra £200 for 4K. Is the Hero plus the best option for me? Not necessarily the LCD version
buy the sony, this cam is the god hands down about stability and vibration correction....no cam can compete vs it..
+Dem Haitam there is the new Sony AS50 that is very compelling.. I think ill buy that
Anas Malas
u can't compar the AS50 vs the Sony FDR-X1000V.....the AS50 is a mid range action Cam from Sony...it record in full HD at 50 Mbits/s and can do a 4K Time Lapse....
but the new, is that the AS50 is the first action cam who have a X3 Zoom on it..
all those cameras are for action condition use, so the most important need from them is:
-a real stable video with the minimum vibration
-a good quality resolution.
the Sony is God of stabilisation, even it smartphones xperia do a better job then any action camera in the market lol, in the same time, Sony have the best image quality...
and don't listen 2 all trolls who says that they buy GoPro camera only for accessories, it exist an adaptor who cost 2$ with what u can use all GoPro mount/grip for Sony cam..
buy Sony man, you'll not regret your choice..
Dem Haitam the AS50, unfortunately, does not have any sort of optical zoom. It has digital zoom...
I, like OP, dont have much budget and want a good value camera, so I think the AS50 is best!
Anas Malas
yes it's a digital Zoom, and the first time an action cam use it...
if for ur money, u have 2 know that u'll receive with the Sony AS50 only 1 adaptator 2 use Gopro or other grip, a waterproof case and that's all...
if u don't have accessories, think about the Sony 200 full pack who's priced only a few $ more
Quite honestly, this whole video went over my head as I don't know much about this field of technology though I'd like to start. With CyberMonday right around the corner there's probably some sick deals on cameras so I'd very much appreciate your help or the help of anyone who sees this post in time for that.
I anticipate becoming a helicopter pilot for the US Army and also flying for a commercial airline as a profession in the next few years. I love riding my motorcycle and would use it while riding for sure. I also enjoy hiking, jogging, mountain biking, cliff jumping and whatnot. Luckily, price isn't a limiting factor. I use a Macbook Pro. Considering all of this what would you suggest I purchase?
Would love to see you review the Ricoh WG-M1
+Len k Haven't been able to get a hold of the Ricoh WG-M1. I'll see what I can do but funds have been tight recently. Trying to reach out where I can. Just need some support :D
Excellent review, I'd like the GoPro SILVER but the price is... thought of the Session who seems well priced now; SONY too but too bulky for my taste, those action cams are very high budget for the scope of their use; I remember the first GoPro HERO who was 250€ at the time, not cheap but still affordable.
your action can comparison videos are very helpful, but here i just found out that you never use or mention the GPS function of sony actioncams. I think it is nice to compare with garmin one!
You need to check out the Gitup Git 2, its a fresh company and it has video stabilization.
+DatNinjaGuy :D Been hearing a lot about it. This video was filmed about 2 weeks after it had come to market. Hoping to find a way to get one soon.
You can get it from Banggood, for 139 dollars. you can reduce the cost of it to 108 dollars using the code "GitUp". This is where im getting it. I also contacted the Gitup company saying if banggood is a good site to buy from, and they replied that it is no problem to buy from there
just got the hero 4 silver for my trip to Korea and Japan next month. Pumped! Any recommendations for settings for best quality photos and vids? I wanted to wait for the hero 5 but not sure when that is coming out. I will probably end up getting that too.
+Braden Riley yes, loved my stay there. Was in Seoul for 6 days. In Kyoto now hungover as shit haha
What about the GeekPro 2.0, it's really cheap and good!
Bought Sony AS200V last year and I was so happy that it has image stabilizer cuz I do a lot of extreme sports too bad Sony didn't market it right. Almost bought GoPro until I realized it does not have IS.
i just got the as200v aswell, but what i'm wondering is the shape of it. u can't really mount it in ur chest or anything like that. what do u think about that and do u only use helmet mount?
+Sepzilla HD Yes there are many helmet mount on the top or on the side. It look weird on the chest but there is a shoulder mount,
Didi Mulyadi Ok, i checked and there actually is a chest mount, but yea probaply would look pretty weird.
Ever looked at the Kodak PixPro SP1?
I only have the session and I use it for vlogging.
which one able to capture good fast action photo with the less motion blur . i found out that the burst mode cant actually provide a good photo outcome , and almost all burst mode photo will become motion blur when it come to mid air action capturing . i still cant figure out how the hell those mid air action pose capture without motion blur ...
+wong woon Hero4 Black and Silver can do 30 frames at 12mp photo in 1 second. Should eliminate most motion blur. If you are filming video make sure "Auto Light" is turned off and you have enough light for 60fps to 120fps.
I wish you would have given more detail on the OSMO. You said the image quality is good, but how does it compare?
+Vagabond Filmmaker Here's 20+ more mins ua-cam.com/video/p7SdC-0z_NI/v-deo.html&lc=z12winwyln3vfxvry04cihiicxqecz2i2wk0k
+Vagabond Filmmaker Here is also a side by side with Hero4 Black and Sony X1000V ua-cam.com/video/4tX1uMRx2tg/v-deo.html
Should you buy Sony FDR X1000V for budget you tuber camera and outdoor videography? Thanks!
+NETVO TV It's served me well over the last year. Saved my butt recently as good back up camera for something I was recording as well. Pretty happy with it overall especially if I'd gotten for the price you can now.
good video, looks like there is not much of alternative to the go pro
How about Appo W9 Action Cam?
@MarkHawkCam how about Yashica YAC-400??, please help going to Thailand next Tuesday, any comment will be greatly appreciated
hi mark what is the best cheap camera that fillm also in low light cause i got the eken h9 but its bad in low light
do you reccomend on the xiaomi yi adter audio and foucs fixs?
+MatanPur Sony Action Cams are the best in low light consistently. Sony AZ1 or even the AS30 might be what you're looking for.
I liked the video alot! It would be nice if you add the name and a picture from the camera when you start discussing a new one. Keep it up!
Appreciate the feedback :D
I recomend the Firefly 6S. It's just 100 and does '4K' (it's more of an Ultra HD not full 4K)
Can you do a sjcam hd vs hero comparison? You seem to do a lot of GoPro comps but non with the camera that looks just like it. Or did I just missed the vids?
+gundampigeon I've picked up 2 SJCams in the 2014/2015. Just never liked any of them too much in terms of image quality. I had built this huge 6 camera side by side rig to test a bunch budget action cameras but I never finished it. Kept running into issues and it just kept getting delayed till the point I gave up. Just never had a huge passion to go back to the SJcams.The Yi just blew away what I expected in a budget action cam but I've considered revisiting budget cams recently. A lot of really bad ones are being rebranded these days and passed off as other cameras we've reviewed. Just need to get the funds to pick up a bunch of these cameras and do another budget camera face off.
H8R OR H9 IS THE BEST . ??? PLIS HELP ME FOR UNDERWATER FISHING
what about monster digital villian?
what about activeon cx gold ?
very helpul and clear ! thanks!
Mark, are you going to test the HDR-AS50R? Would love to see how well the zoom works and some of the other new features. The 4K stills movie would be neat, too. Also the new remote?
+Walter Klatt Of course :D Lets hope they send me one early this time around ;)
+MarkHawkCam I see the manuals for the AS50 are now finally available on the support site. Looks good. Remote power on, separating angle view from Steady Shot for videos, zoom, and flat lens case are all good features. But a couple things are still not clear to me.
The previous white action cam models were splash proof without a case. This one does not appear to be so. Is that correct?
The Angle settings are Wide or Narrow. Previously these were specified as 170 degrees and 120 degrees which are actually ultra wide and wide. There was no narrow. What are the angle settings in the AS50 in degrees?
Hopefully, you can get these questions answered for us, Mark.
Hope it's sooner rather then later. If not, expect to hear a lot about it around the 21st.
Thanks for the vid, what's the best for under water shots?
+LamboBen 93 (Lamboben93) I'd say the higher end Sony or GoPro but the Garmin might also fair pretty well. Just never used it for a deep dive.
+LamboBen 93 (Lamboben93)
Here is a GoPro dive comparison we did: ua-cam.com/video/4MAe7Q9oFTk/v-deo.html
Here is a lower end Sony Camera video we did with wild Dolphins at Catalina island. ua-cam.com/video/7FiL5ZM3XWk/v-deo.html
What headset are you using? It has great sound for a wireless headset.
Astro A50. You can get very similar if not better results from the wired A40's as well.
@markhawkcam
Hi Mark! i appreciate all of your knowledge, bc i do not have knowledge in this area but i am ready to purchase an action camera!.. May i ask you for ur suggestion if my main use for the camera will be for underwater free diving?
Can you connect the Session to an iPad?
Collateral kila yes I have the session and I can connect it to the app
Great job Mark! I just subscribed after watching nearly all your videos and a ton more of others on UA-cam. I need the best bang for the buck (like most) for use on rough trails with my Side-by-Side ATV but I also want to replace my aging Canon S3 DSLR camera. Right now I am leaning heavily to the Sony HDR AS200VR as the remote "watch" feature would really be handy on those long rides of 8 hours or so when you only would want to record certain parts of the ride. The Garmin VIRB XE is also in the running. But now I just saw the difference with the new Sony FDR-X1000 and would like your opinion on the "still" picture quality between the three if you would be so kind.. Mind you that I am coming from a 5MP camera (Canon S3) and an iPhone6.. Thank you again for great reviews!
+rvandeloo Sorry for the delay. Bad thing about that remote for the Sony cameras is it kills the battery pretty fast. You are looking about a 33% drain and it can't turn the camera on. I think only off. It's honestly not worth the battery life for me especially when I can't control the on/off option. VIRB-XE is great for vehicles. If you don't need the view finder, this would be my selection BUT the battery life isn't great either. The Hero4 Silver doesn't have the features like stabilization or stat tracking but it does have the battery life. It's low power state when it's not recording is awesome and the video quality is good too. It has an LCD screen on the back that doesn't impact the battery life but there are lots of 3rd party wrist mounts or official remotes out there too.
It's a ton of options but I'd pick which feature are key to not getting in the way of what you love. Great footage follows easy after. Let me know what you end up going with and what you thought after you had some time with it. :D
Do you have a video about the Sony HDR-AS50? Or do you know if it's good for underwater movies?
thanks!
ua-cam.com/video/UyMNJNEXwWo/v-deo.html&lc=z13uwdhwykfdgnboc04ccpxgdkupx3eyvp40k
MarkHawkCam Thank you
What about the SJ5000 plus? Or Panoera Z10 Plus?
+Kamen Zagorov Was not a fan of the SJ4000 or 4500 in the past. Haven't had any experience with the Z10. Listed the ones I thought were worth buying going into 2015/2016.
Well again I want to use for paintball tell me what I need to buy
+Jesse Sanchez I posted this to another user earlier today:
I use the VIO POV HD for Paintball. It's an older camera and has some issues but I love being able to center mount it to my head. It was designed with military use in mind so it's really tough and low profile. runs of 6 AA batteries too. I carry a few rechargeable ones with me when I go. The Hero4 Sesson is really easy to mount to your mask or marker. The field of view options are good too but not might last you an entire day. You'd need to buy a USB battery backup for tablets like the Jackery for $20 and charge it during lunch. The Sony Az1 is small but the design might limit it to only gun mounting. But if you don't mind side of head it's light with built in digital stabilization. AS200 is strictly a side of head or gun mount but same strengths as the AZ1. You could also check out some newer Panasonic HX500 (name might be wrong) cameras that have the same design as the VIO POV but their battery life is pretty poor and I had some consistency issues.
Thanke you mark best video
What is the chapest option of Sony AS cams memory cards for that professional mode? (can´t remember the name of the formate, you said it in one of your vids but I can´t find it)
Check the more information section below the video for links to user and my recommendations. You'll want a XC formated card (Not HC) which are often limited to 64gb or bigger. Lexark and Sandisk are my go to brand but I've also had luck with transcend micro sd lately but just starting to play with them.
+MarkHawkCam you forgot Htc RE
so markhawk, do you prefer the sony x1000v or the gopro hero 4 silver/black. they are all within my budget and I'm looking for the best one out there
+Christian Dinero Depends on the event for me honestly. Hero4 Silver is my favorite all around camera even though in noth the strongest in all areas. The X1000V also hasn't seen a lot of support from sony in the year it's been on market. Still a strong camera but missed opportunity. That being said I used the X1000V to record audio of an important event today.
Hi Mark, could you boil the Sony Action Cams down to which model would be best for mountain bike downhill action? thanks for the great vid!!!
+John Graboski I'd go for the AZ1 because how light it is or the AS200V if you want some extra features and good quality bump. However if you can wait, Sony just announced a new camera coming out in February called the Sony AS50R. Could be a good pick up or help drop the price of the AS200 line of cameras. Features 4k, field of view options, and all the other good around $350.
+MarkHawkCam Mark, you are great! thanks for taking the time to answer. I heard really good things about either the gopro 3+ or 4+ but simply really have grown to appreciate Sony quality. A+ for you!
Hi Mark, thank you for putting all this time and effort into these videos. I want to get a camera for my helmet for motorcycle riding. I'm leaning towards a sony , but can't solidify my decision. do you have any recommendations?
+Emphase I just picked up the Sony FDRX1000V yesterday for the same purpose. In Aus they are now $349, whilst the Go pro Hero 4 Silver is still at $550.00. The only negative I see so far is the Sony is almost impossible to chin mount due to its shape. You can also add pieces of the Go pro mounting system to it if required, as they are interconnectable.
+EASYMCZ thanks EASYMCZ, yeah that's also one thing i was wondering. I like watching the chin-mount videos the best but i also prefer the sonys. let me know what you end up doing for mounting on that nice camera. excellent price too! I was thinking the as200 since its $200 right now, but i haven't seen the fdr1000v for 350 yet
+Emphase I agree, chin mount footage looks the best and Go Pro have that covered. Im gonna try it with mine and see how it goes, I think the AS200 is smaller and lighter may be ok for it. I also heard there is another GoPro coming out soon, hopefully will see a nice price drop if that happens. I am a Sony fan too, but would have gone GoPro if the price was more realistic.
I wonder why you left out the Drift Ghost S HD, one of the best on the market
Great on battery life and rotatable lens. Just found it's video quality to offer nothing to special, it's price was still pretty high when I made this video, and it's really heavy in my opinion. It's not a bad camera but just didn't make the cut for this video.
Thanks, point taken, there are only so many cameras that you can review in one video, you have to draw the line somewhere. Though to be fair, I don't think 171 g is 'really' heavy compared to 177 g for the Garmin Virb XE or 152g for a GoPro Hero 4 (with housing). Yes, battery life is good; I'm getting 3 hours recording out of one charge. Maybe that is why it is a few grams heavier? My only concern about video quality with the Ghost is its susceptibility to jello wobble. You have to mount it securely if you are expecting a bumpy ride. The price I paid is less than for a Hero 4.
thank you, I often stopping to read all sub, but I understood finally, buy sony. In first time thought go pro best. But sony make new upgrades very quickly and cool. Can you help? which of sony do you take?(budget whatever)
I normally choose between bringing the AS200 or AS50. Those are my 2 go tos. However, Sony has released the new FDR-X3000 and HDR-AS300 in Japan. Really excited for these to come stateside.
Which of these have an external mic input (other than the GoPro models)?
+Daryl Pudlo Sony AZ1, Polaroid Cube, and GoPro Hero4 Session are the only ones I can think of that wouldn't support an external mic. Thought I mentioned it on the AZ1. The Yi and Hero+LCD might have issues with an external mic but I could be wrong on that. All others support 3rd part mics. Hope this helps.
+MarkHawkCam Thank you! You'd be shocked at what information the manufacturers don't list for consumers.
Is the xiaomi yi waterproof?
Not without a case.
+MarkHawkCam there's no case
there is a case
Sony action video camera is very clear shot. I think, it should have 1.5 x zoom to reduced the fish-eye view, just like 20 20 vision.
Awesome video! thanks!
what camera do you recommend for travel vloging? I need something with good audio and easy timelapse function. also rainproof.
+Garit Heaton Sony HDR-AS200V
+Garit Heaton As200V, Garmin Virb-XE (supports Bluetooth and wired mics), or Gopro hero4 Silver (with maybe Removu's upcoming Bluetooth mic system or wired mic)
+MarkHawkCam Watched several of your videos multiple times, the info is really great. I really wanted the Session but the option to have an external mic and better image quality has made me decide on the hero 4 silver i think. one last question though, i wont need it till next summer, will anything new be out by then? should i wait and see? thanks again.
+Anibal Osorio Bautista that camer is awesome and i would probably buy it, but that lens distortion is unfortunately way too much for me i think.
If you can I'd wait. 1st Quarter GoPro is putting out the GoPro Karma, VR rig, and I suspect a gimbal. There is a good chance something else might sneak out but it's anyone's guess. Lots of rumors and nothing clear except the VR rig and Karma
Whats the best action camera that is affordable and has an external mic capability?
+counkev Someone asked a similar question in the comments but I feel the Sony AS200V might be the best bet.
+MarkHawkCam Does the Sony AS200V have an external mic capability? I try searching for Sony AS200V external mic and couldn't find anything.
Very nice video. The Gitup Git2. IMO this is best in its class (very low light aside) by a long way.
Will be in the EU warehouse again soon. www.banggood.com/GitUp-Git2-2K-WiFi-Action-1440P-1_5-inches-LCD-Novatek-96660-Chipset-IMX206-16_0MP-Image-Sensor-p-1007770.html?p=2O21111526893201504H Look forward to your review. I love my Xiaomi Yi but I feel it now no longer makes economic sense. By the time you have bought the mounts , waterproof case etc you can soon find you have spent near what the cam cost again.
Got on here just now, thanks mate. With coupon code GitUp they only cost $108.... What a steal !!!
X1000v also can alternate between 170/120 FOV which corrects the distortion. Also its water resistant without the case. It has O-rings on all doors. I've just used it on a 6 day motorcycle trip in torrential rain with no issues. You do need to use the software to attain the GPS dat. Also you will need a U3 SD card to record in the higher bitrate modes. I.e. no 4k on the sony without a U3 card, it'll give you a media error. here is an example where you can really see the image stabilization against the helmet. ua-cam.com/video/bWFl4ZImcqI/v-deo.html main issues with it I see is the menu is a little slow, better to use the smartphone app to setup and control. Also the underwater case it comes with you need to spend an extra $30 to get that planar dive door. The case is really for protection and water rather than diving by default. Great video cheers.
I've really enjoy Xiaomi and it's smartphones and I would really like to buy the Yi.
But the only thing that stops me is that there's no screen, the sound of some recordings I've seen here in youtube, and the lack of accessories when you get it.
I've been looking at SJCAM products and SJ5000X Elite seems like a great deal.
What's your opinion for this one over the Yi?
+Voliminal You can pick up a cheap pack of accessories anywhere so I wouldn't let that part stop you. I used a few of the older SJAM earlier in the year and found the quality to be towards the bottom in consistency and quality. Bad battery latches, ridged buttons, and poor quality footage. Quality wise I rated it close to the original Polaroid Cube. Crunches the values pretty hard but unlike the cube, the color was way off on the SJCAM. Also the UI was just filled with so many options it made navigating it a nightmare. I filmed a 6 way budget camera face off but never finished it. I'd buy a Yi at twice it's normal price over some of the SJCams I used toward the beginning of 2015. LCD screen was nice but the field of view on these cameras in so wide you very rarely miss capturing what you aim too.
+MarkHawkCam I can see colors on SJCAMs are not that "alive". Yesterday I saw Git2 and was really impressed with it. Never seen it before. Also gyro on Git2 got me hooked! How about Git2 over the Yi?
+Voliminal Haven't used the Git2 but you are about the 12th person to bring it up this month. It's on my radar. I'll see what I can do.
Great review