Action cameras allow you to capture life’s adventures in unique and immersive ways. With compact bodies and wide-angle lenses, they can go places and provide perspectives that smartphones and traditional cameras can’t.
Two popular budget-friendly options for getting started with action cams are the AKASO Brave 7 and Brave 7 LE. But what exactly sets these models apart?
In this in-depth comparison guide, we’ll break down the key distinctions between the Brave 7 and Brave 7 LE. We’ll look at specs, features, performance, accessories, and other factors to help you determine which AKASO action cam best fits your needs and budget.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Brave 7 | Brave 7 LE |
| Video Resolution | 4K30fps | 4K30fps |
| Photo Resolution | 20MP | 20MP |
| Waterproof Depth | 131ft (40m) | 164ft (50m) |
| Front Display Screen | No | Yes |
| HDR Photo Mode | Yes | No |
| TimeLapse Video Mode | Yes | No |
| Image Stabilization | Hybrid | Electronic |
| Exposure Control | -2.0 to +2.0 EV | -1.3 to +1.3 EV |
| Digital Lens Options | Yes | No |
| Price | $90-100 | $70-80 |
An Overview Of The Brave 7 And Brave 7 LE
First, let’s take a broad look at what each of these action cams brings to the table:
AKASO Brave 7
The Brave 7 debuted in 2021 as a new addition to AKASO’s lineup of affordably-priced action cams competing with brands like GoPro and DJI.
It shoots video up to 4K/30fps and photos up to 20MP.
The Brave 7 is waterproof down to 131 feet (40 meters) without a case. It has built-in Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS), HDR photo capabilities, and features like timelapse and slow motion modes.
Retailing for around $100, the Brave 7 offers good value for those looking to get started with action photography and videography on a budget.
AKASO Brave 7 LE
The Brave 7 LE is a very similar model that AKASO released later in 2021. As the “LE” suggests, it is close to a Lite version of the original Brave 7. It shares the core specs like 4K/30fps video and 20MP photo capabilities.
The LE actually improves upon the waterproof performance, rated down to a deeper 164 feet (50 meters). It also adds useful touches like a front color LCD screen. But it does drop a few features like HDR mode. The Brave 7 LE sells for $20-30 less than the Brave 7, typically around $70-80.
Also Read: Comparison Between AKASO Brave 4 and Brave 4 Pro
Now let’s take a much closer look at how these two budget-friendly action cameras stack up across various factors:
Video And Photo Capabilities
When it comes to core video and photo specs, the Brave 7 and Brave 7 LE are nearly identical:
- Video: Both shoot video at up to 4K 30fps with decent image stabilization at this resolution. They can also shoot 2.7K and 1080p up to 60fps. Slow motion modes up to 240fps in 720p are offered as well.
- Photos: 20MP photo resolution with the ability to shoot timelapse photos and burst mode up to 10fps.
- Field of View Options: The standard wide perspective plus narrow and “distortion correction” modes.
The Brave 7 does have high dynamic range (HDR) for photos, which can help preserve details in high contrast scenes. The LE model lacks HDR. But for the most part, these cameras are on par for core video and photo performance at this price point.
Design And Build
Visually, the Brave 7 and Brave 7 LE look nearly identical. They share the same compact, rectangular form factor at 2.3 x 1.6 x 1.1 inches.
- Waterproof: Both models are waterproof without a case up to 50 meters, which is sufficient for most water activities.
- Displays: This is one difference – the Brave 7 LE adds a 1.4” front LCD display for framing shots. The Brave 7 lacks a front display.
- Battery: Battery life is comparable at around 90 minutes per charge when recording in 4K. The batteries are removable and rechargeable.
- Connections: Built-in WiFi plus Bluetooth for wireless control through the AKASO GO app.Micro HDMI port for hardwiring to displays. MicroSD slot to hold memory cards up to 128GB.
- Accessories: A selection of mounts, floating handles, cases, filters and more allow you to accessorize both models. They use the same accessories.
Overall, the bodies and core hardware of the Brave 7 and 7 LE are very similar. The LE’s addition of a front display gives it a leg up for framing shots. But both deliver good durability and versatilty for outdoor recording.
Also Read: Choose Between Canon EOS R10 And Canon EOS M50 Mark II.
Features And Shooting Modes
When it comes to built-in features and shooting modes, the Brave 7 does offer a few additional options compared to the streamlined Brave 7 LE:
- HDR Photos: As covered earlier, the Brave 7 can shoot in HDR mode for higher dynamic range photos. This can help preserve highlight and shadow details in challenging high contrast scenes.
- Timelapse Mode: Both models offer timelapse photo captures. But only the Brave 7 has a dedicated timelapse video mode.
- Hybrid Image Stabilization: The Brave 7 combines electronic and digital image stabilization for smoother video footage when handholding the camera. The LE relies on standard electronic stabilization.
- Distortion Correction: Both models offer distortion correction to reduce the wide-angle lens curvature effect. But the Brave 7 has additional digital lens options for capturing unique perspectives.
- Exposure Control: You have slightly more Exposure Value compensation control on the Brave 7 (-2.0 to +2.0 EV Vs. -1.3 to +1.3 on the LE).
The Brave 7 LE covers the basics, like 4K video and 20MP photos, along with essential capture modes. But the Brave 7 adds a few bonus features that provide more creative flexibility.
App And Wireless Connectivity
One of the core advantages of modern action cams is being able to wirelessly view, control and transfer content using your smartphone or tablet. The experience is virtually the same between the Brave 7 and Brave 7 LE when using AKASO’s GO app:
- Live remote viewfinder with full camera control
- Media gallery to download photos/videos over WiFi
- Overlay telemetry like speed and GPS route
- Create and share short videos with music and effects
The LE does have Bluetooth in addition to WiFi for an always-connected experience with minimal battery drain. But otherwise the wireless features are comparable. Both integrate tightly with the GO app for mobile editing and sharing.
Cost And Value Comparison
As covered earlier, the Brave 7 LE retails for around $20-30 less than the original Brave 7. Here is a look at typical prices:
- AKASO Brave 7: $90-100
- AKASO Brave 7 LE: $70-80
At first glance, the cheaper LE model may seem like the better value choice. However, when you factor in the extra features included with the Brave 7 like HDR, customizable timelapse, lens options, and superior stabilization, that model arguably delivers greater value for just a bit more money.
The LE still represents a solid budget choice for casual users who want to keep the price lower. But enthusiasts will appreciate the advanced creative options on the Brave 7. Also watch the video!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The main differences are the Brave 7 has a few extra shooting modes like HDR photo, customizable timelapse, and digital lens options. It also has slightly better stabilization. The Brave 7 LE lacks those extras but adds a front display screen and saves you about $20-30 off the price.
The Brave 7 LE was released in late 2021, several months after the original Brave 7 model.
Yes, the Brave 7 LE has built-in WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity. This allows you to pair it with your smartphone via the AKASO GO app for remote control, viewing, and sharing.
No, the Brave 7 LE does not have optical zoom capabilities. You can digitally zoom when recording video or taking photos, but this will decrease image quality. The maximum optical zoom is the wide field of view the camera lens provides.
Also Read: Is Sony FX3 Better Than A7IV?
Final Verdict
At the end of the day, both the Brave 7 and Brave 7 LE deliver good performance and features considering their affordable price points. Choosing between them comes down to budget and needs:
- AKASO Brave 7 is the better choice if you want the extra shooting modes like HDR and customizable timelapse. It also offers slightly better image stabilization for smoother video footage. The Brave 7 represents a good value for enthusiasts wanting more robust options from their entry-level action camera.
- AKASO Brave 7 LE makes sense if you want to save $20-30 and don’t need the advanced settings offered by the Brave 7. The LE nails the core capabilities like 4K video and 20MP photos while adding a convenient front display. It’s a great choice for casual users who want a budget-friendly but capable action cam.
At the end of the day, it’s hard to go wrong with either model as an affordable way to capture stunning action footage and photos. Consider which extras matter most to you and how much you want to spend to make the right choice between these two excellent AKASO options.