SJCAM and GoPro competitor action cams (review)

VIIVIIIXIII

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Dash Cam
ITB-100HD, SG9665GC, Mobius B & C2, T1, Z970WD
I'm not quite sure where to post this thread, as there is no section in the forums for these specific cameras. I'll leave it here for now as it might be the most relevant here. I have been approached and will be receiving sample units for testing and review.

Dazzne DZ-P2 review (click here)
Official website: http://www.dazzne.com/product?lang=en_us

Amkov AMK5000 WiFi review (click here)
Unofficial website: http://amkovsj5000.com/

Soocoo S60 WiFi review (click here)

Xiaomi Yi Sports camera review (click here)
Official website: http://www.mi.com/yicamera/
 
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Dazzne DZ-P2 review [1 of 2]

Thanks to Tmart for supplying this unit.
Product Link: http://www.tmart.com/Dazzne-DZ-P2-W...ort-Camera-Video-Camcorder-Black_p306019.html
Official website: http://www.dazzne.com/product?lang=en_us
Price: $115.00USD

Review:

The Dazzne DZ-P2 is yet another alternative to the GoPro actioncam category, similar to the SJX000, M10, AMK5000, and Mobius. The DZ-P2 body mimics the styling and dimensions of the GoPro, and is compatible with all the standard GoPro accessories (excluding the waterproof case and battery).

Although the chipset used in this camera is unknown, the DZ-P2 can record video in 1080p up to 30fps with superb video quality all around. Daytime footage is crisp and clear, as we have come to expect. The night footage captured is very good with reasonable clarity as there aren’t many artifacts, nor blurry lines distorting the image – one of the better low light budget action cams I’ve seen to date. This unit also has a menu setting allowing you to select between 3 FOV angles (narrow, wide, ultra wide). I argue that the DZ-P2 can produce a comparable image to the SJCAM SJ4000.

It’s a shame that this unit lacks WiFi capabilities, however, the DZ-P2 does offer other features not found in other actioncams. For starters, this unit 1) features a larger 2.0” LCD screen 2) officially supports a microSDXC up to a 64GB and 3) mini-USB port to use an external microphone. This unit also comes supplied with an extra battery (total of 2) and an external dock for charging both batteries, conveniently and quickly. You don’t have to leave the camera plugged into the wall/PC to charge the battery anymore!

Dazzne has also made and effort to create their own line of mounts, accessories, and combination kits. They are almost identical to the GoPro accessories but are available to purchase at a fraction of the cost.

At $115.00USD, the DZ-P2 is one of the more expensive GoPro alternatives out there, but still not nearly as expensive as the GoPro itself. The combination of superb video quality, features and accessories make this camera worth the money. I would recommend the DZ-P2 to anyone looking for an actioncam on a budget, and willing to live without WiFi. If WiFi is a must, then SJCAM SJX000 WiFi would be the camera to buy.

Sample clips:

Dashcam vids uploaded soon...




Stock photos:

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Specifications and feature list:
  • Chipset: Novatek 96655?
  • Sensor: 3 Mega Pixels CMOS
  • Lens View Angle: 6G+IR/ F2.8 /130°
  • Battery: 3.7V 950mAh (note: 2 batteries are included)
  • Display Screen: 2"TFT 960*240
  • Capacity of the Micro SD card: 64GB (Max.)
  • Interface: Mini USB 2.0、 Mini HDMI
  • Battery working hours: 2 hours
  • Battery Charging time: 3.5 hours
  • Video/Photo format: Video: MOV(H.264) Photo: JPG
  • Video Resolution: PAL NTSL 1080P(30/24/15)fps, 960P(30/24/15)fps, 720P(60/48/30/24/15)fps; WVAG(60/48/30/24/15)fps
  • Photo Resolution: 12MP(4032×3024) 8MP(3264×2448) 5MP(2592×1944) 300MP(2048×1536)
  • Image 180°turnover: ON
  • OSD Display: ON
  • Waterproof Depth: 20mt
  • Operating Temperature: -10℃–50℃
  • Size: 60*45*28mm
  • Net Weight: 94g(with built-in battery)
  • Material: Plastic & Aluminum
  • Language: English, Simplified / Traditional Chinese
Box contents:
  • 1x Dazzne DZ-P2
  • 1x battery charger
  • 2x lithium battery
  • 1x USB data cable
  • 1x power charging cable
  • 4x 360 degree rotating quick release tripod mount
  • 1x diving shell case
  • 2x thumb knob
  • 2x 3-way pivot arm
  • 2x J-hook bucklemount
20141129111058_74043.jpg
 
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Dazzne DZ-P2 review [2 of 2]


Optional accessories / kits:

  • Compatible with all GoPro accessories. Dazzne also offers their own line of accessories available in single units or in kits, at a very reasonable price. Link here
  • KT-101 11-in-1 Kit
  • KT-102 15-in-1 Kit
  • KT-103 7-in-1 Kit
  • KT-104 6-in-1 Kit
  • KT-107 8-in-1 Kit
  • KT-111 5-in-1 Kit
  • KT-113 Motorcycle Riding GoPro Kit
  • KT-115 Extreme Sports GoPro Kit
Ports and buttons:
20141129113941_50829.jpg


Bitrate information:
  • 1080p/30fps - This camera records at 16Mbps
Firmware:
  • This camera shipped with firmware HE5 V.1.10.20141210
 
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Amkov AMK5000 WiFi review [1 of 2]

Thanks to Gearbest for supplying this unit.
Product Link: Coupon code: AMKRS (for red and silver), GBAMK (for black and champagne)
Price after coupon: $72.99USD (for red and silver), $82.99USD (for black and champagne); free shipping included.

Review:

"NoPro n. Replica of GoPro"

The Amkov AMK5000 wifi is obviously a budget imitation of the GoPro, termed "NoPro", built using the Sunplus 6330M chipset. Both cameras have the same appearance, dimensions, button layout, removable battery, etc. All of the GoPro accessories (including the waterproof case, but excluding the battery) are cross compatible with this unit.

Video quality on the AMK5000 is respectable @ 1080p/30fps (see sample clips below). The day footage is on par with most of the other Novatek-based dashcams out there (ie. SJ4000, G1w, Mobius, etc.). Depending on how you prefer the image, white balance can be tweaked via the smartphone app. The night (and low-light) footage is somewhat lacking. I wouldn't call the image blurry, but it isn't that sharp and there are consistent faint colored lines across the recording. The recording is bright enough so that you can identify other vehicles and road signs. Although the feature list states motion detection and loop recording, I could not find the settings to activate it. There is no auto start/stop nor G-sensor function. The microphone on this unit is quite good.

The greatest feature of this unit is the wifi capability. Without an LCD screen, it is not possible to change settings, date and time stamps, etc. using the buttons on the camera alone. After downloading the app (for Android and iOS) and pairing the device with your smartphone, you can 1) switch between video, photo, library modes 2) start/stop recording 3) change settings. Unfortunately, video playback is not supported via mobile app.

At $72.99USD (after coupon), the AMK5000 is one of the cheapest wifi equipped NoPros on the market. As GoPro accessories are widely available, the ability to buy mounts, accessories locally and on short notice may prove to be invaluable. I would recommend this camera to anyone looking for a wifi capable dashcam/action cam at the lowest price possible.

Sample clips:

my own dashcam clips on the way...

AMK5000 review at 3:40 to 10:15. Sample clip comparison starting at 12:40.




Stock photos:

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Specifications and feature list:

  • Chipset : Sunplus 6330M
  • Max External Card Supported: TF 32G (not included)
  • Special Function: Microphone, Motion detection, Photograph, Loop recording, HDMI output, Digital zoom
  • Battery type: Removable
  • Capacity : 1150mAh rechargable lithium battery
  • Charge Way : USB charge by PC
  • Working time: 3 hours of continuous use (1080P 30fps)
  • Screen Type: LCD Display
  • Waterproof: up to 30 meters
  • Wide Angle: 170 degree wide angle
  • Image Sensor: 14 million CMOS
  • Camera Pixel: 20.0MP
  • Digital Zoom : 4X
  • Decode Format: H.264
  • Video Format: MOV
  • Video Resolution : 1080P (1920 x 1080), 720P (1280 x 720)
  • Video System: PAL, NTSC
  • Video Frame Rate: 30fps, 60fps
  • Video Output: HDMI
  • Image Format : JPG
  • Image Resolution : 20M (5152 x 3864), 16M (4608 x 3456), 12M (4032 x 3024), 14M (4416 x 3312), 8M (3264 x 2448), 12M (4000 x 3000), 5M (2592 x 1944), 18M (4896 x 3672)
  • Audio System: Built-in microphone/speacker (AAC)
  • White Balance Mode: Auto
  • Frequency: 50Hz, 60Hz
  • HDMI Output: Yes
  • Interface Type: HDMI, USB 2.0
  • Language: Simplified Chinese, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, French, Spanish, English
  • Product Weight: 0.072 kg
  • Package Weight: 0.420 kg
  • Product Size (L x W x H): 5.9 x 4.1 x 2.3 cm / 2.3 x 1.6 x 0.9 inches
  • Package Size (L x W x H): 24.0 x 18.0 x 8.0 cm
 
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Amkov AMK5000 WiFi review [2 of 2]

Box contents:
  • 1x AMK5000 DV
  • 1x Waterproof case (compatible with genuine GoPro case)
  • 1x Helmet Mount Set
  • 1x USB Cable

    Note: my unit also came with a non-waterproof mounting bracket (no lens obstruction) , tripod adapter, EU wall charger, and instruction manual (english/chinese).
201409231336129302.jpg


Optional accessories:

  • Compatible with all GoPro accessories, even the waterproof case sold by GoPro.
Ports and buttons:

201409231355531577.jpg

Bitrate information:

  • 1080p/30fps - This camera records at 18Mbps during both day and night
File location:
  • Data is written to \VIDEO
Firmware:
  • This camera shipped with firmware v1.05
 
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Soocoo S60 WiFi review

Thanks to Gearbest for supplying this unit
Product Link: Price : $95.99USD w/ free shipping

Review:


The Soocoo S60 is another addition to the GoPro action cam alternative category. Quite similar to the SJX000, M10, Dazzne DZ-P2 in design, it is compatible with all GoPro accessories. This unit features the newer Novatek 96655 chipset (unlike the older 96650 in the older chinese dashcams like G1W, A118, etc.) which still records at 1080p30fps with a 170 degree wide angle lens and has all the same features of a typical dashcam. The video quality of this camera is actually quite good during both day and night, as shown in the sample clips. The recordings are reasonably clear, free of artifacts and noise. Road signs and license plates are easy enough to read.

The new rubber design of the camera housing is a once piece design without a detachable waterproof case (similar to the budget GoPro Hero) which allows for superior waterproofing rated up to 60m. Some new features that are unique to this camera include: wrist watch style wireless remote and two front firing LEDs to illuminate dark environments. It also comes in a nice carrying case with foam cut-outs for the camera and some accessories.

Overall, the Soocoo S60 is a decent actioncam that records with good image quality. However, priced at $95.99USD, it doesn’t feel like this camera is a good value for users looking for a dashcam. I would rather recommend the SJCAM SJ4000 WiFi, Dazzne DZ-P2 or Mobius instead for dashcam / automotive sports use. The recently announced Xiaomi Yi sports camera looks quite promising as well.

Sample clips:


Stock photos:

hgcxC9S.jpg

Specifications and features list:
  • Chipset : Novatek 96655
  • Max External Card Supported: TF 32G (not included)
  • Class Rating Requirements: Class 4 or Above
  • Screen : 1.5inch:CD
  • Battery: Removable1050mAh rechargeable lithium battery
  • Charge Way : AC adapter, USB charge by PC
  • Wide Angle: 170 degree wide angle
  • Camera Pixel: 12MP
  • Digital Zoom : 4X
  • Video Format: MOV
  • Video Resolution : 1080P (1920 x 1080), 720P (1280 x 720)
  • Video System: PAL, NTSC
  • Video Frame Rate: 1080P(30fps) / 720P(60fps) / WVGA(60fps) / VGA(120fps)
  • Video Output: HDMI
  • PC CAM: 1280 x 720
  • Image Format : JPG
  • Image Resolution : 12M (4032 x 3024), 10M (3648 x 2736), 2M (1920 x 1080)
  • Audio System: Built-in microphone/speacker (AAC)
  • Exposure Compensation: +0.7, -0.7, +1.7, -1.7, +1, -1, -5/3, +5/3, -0.3, -4/3, +2, +4/3, +0.3, -2/3, 2/3, 0, -1.3, +1.3, -2
  • White Balance Mode: Cloudy, Daylight, Auto, Tungsten, Fluorescent
  • Scene: Auto
  • HDMI Output: Yes
  • Interface Type: USB 2.0, HDMI
  • Product Weight: 0.094 kg
  • Package Weight: 0.8 kg
  • Product Size (L x W x H): 6.7 x 7 x 4.5 cm / 2.6 x 2.7 x 1.7 inches
  • Package Size (L x W x H): 23 x 18 x 8 cm
Box contents:
  • 1 x Sports Camera
  • 1 x Battery (3.7V / 1050mAh)
  • 1 x Watch Style Remote Controller
  • 8 x Install Accessories
  • 1 x USB Cable
  • 2 x 3M Double-sided Adhesive
  • 1 x EU Charger (w/ North American adapter)
201412311132185159.jpg


Optional accessories:
  • Compatible with all GoPro accessories
 
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Interested in this Dazzne brand. They look very serious entering the action/dash cam market, especially with their accessories. They didn't use the SJxxxx naming that confused/deceived potential buyers, so that is a good news too. Let's see the review on this P2 on hopefully the P2+? Judging from the price, it should perform better than SJ4000 and SJ5000+ for P2+
 
Amkov AMK5000 WiFi review completed (see post above) :)
The result looks a whole lot better compared to AT200 which used the same Sunplus 6330M chipset. Perhaps it has a better firmware or better sensors.
Now where is the Dazzne review as you promised? :)
 
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The result looks a whole lot better compared to AT200 which used the same Sunplus 6330M chipset. Perhaps it has a better firmware or better sensors.
Now where is the Dazzne review as you promised? :)

It's on the way! The sample unit they sent me got lost in the mail (actually, it arrived in my country but my local post office probably messed something up). Tmart is sending me another sample unit ASAP from their USA warehouse. Should be here soon. I've found some other review videos for the Dazzne DZ-P2 which I linked up above and it looks good. Stay tuned for more
 
Why is Dazzne so secretive about its chipset? Is something dodgy hiding there?
 
Xiaomi Yi Sports Camera (1080p 60fps, WiFi) review

Thanks to Gearbest for supplying this unit.

Official website: http://www.mi.com/yicamera/
Product link: Price: $$66.99USD w/ free shipping

Review:

Here is Xiaomi's first offering in the actioncam market, similar to the GoPro, SJCAM SJx000, etc. This camera features high quality components such as the Ambarella A7LS with a 16MP Sony Exmor Sensor. The Yi Camera actually trumps the specs of GoPro's entry-level camera with 1080P, 60fps video and up to 64GB of memory at about half the price. Other specs include built-in WiFi for remote smartphone triggering, 16-megapixel stills, a backside-illuminated Sony sensor, a 155-degree wide-angle lens, 3D noise reduction and digital image stabilization.

The Yi camera has a minimalist and simple design utilizing only 3 buttons to operate the camera: power/mode, shutter/start/stop, and WiFi. There is also an LED ring around the power button to indicate battery level (Blue indicates 50 - 100% charge, Indigo for 15 - 49% and Red for 0 - 14%). Video quality is superb in the day, and pretty good in the dark without many artifacts (see sample clips below). I would say video quality is better than the SJ4000 and on par with GoPro's Hero HD camera. The 60FPS capabilities captures super smooth video and definitely puts this camera ahead of the rest.

While the official Android and iOS applications are only in Chinese, there are other third party apps that can get the job done. Personally, I use the "LinkinEyes" app for the iPhone which allows me to view live stream and select between various camera settings. The WiFi app is required to change camera settings. Fear not, you won't have change settings often as all previous settings will stored and used the next time you turn on the camera.

At $73.79USD, the Xiaomi Yi sports camera is an amazing buy due to it's superb video quality at such a low price point. It's a shame that there are no extra accessories included with the camera but those aren't too expensive to buy separately. I would definitely recommend this action camera for anything looking for near GoPro video quality at a fraction of the cost.

Sample clips:

Wasn't able to upload in 1080p 60fps. Please let me know if there is a free program that can edit and export videos in 60fps. T_T



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Stock photos:

video-intro.png


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Specifications and feature list:

  • Ambarella A7LS DSP + 16MP Sony Exmor R BSI Back-illuminated CMOS Image Sensor
  • 1080P 60/30FPS FHD Video Recording WiFi & Bluetooth Connection for iOS / Android device
  • Aspheric HD Optical Glass Lens / F2.8 Large Aperture 155° Ultra Wide Angle
  • ST High Performance 3-Axis G-sensor
  • Multiple photo shooting modes: Single shot, Self-Timer, Time-lapse, Burst Shot
  • Panasonic high efficiency (1100mAh) Lipo Battery with low power consumption design
  • Support storage cards up to 64GB maximum (Micro SD Card Class10+ recommended)
  • Standard 1/4"-20 tripod mount on camera compatible with Most Mounts and Accessories
  • A water-resistant housing (sold separately) allows you to film fascinating water sports up to 40 meters under water

Box contents:

  • 1 x Action Camera
  • 1 x Battery
  • 1 x USB Cable
* optional Selfie Monopod Stick available
 
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Why is Dazzne so secretive about its chipset? Is something dodgy hiding there?
No secretive on cipset, it is sunplus chipset, they just use a better sensor, Panasonic sensor.
 
No secretive on cipset, it is sunplus chipset, they just use a better sensor, Panasonic sensor.
Thanks for letting me know now. However you do realise I asked that question over 6 months ago when I couldn't find info on the chipset anywhere then.
 
Thanks for letting me know now. However you do realise I asked that question over 6 months ago when I couldn't find info on the chipset anywhere then.
I just noticed this questions is posted 6 month ago.
But I recheck it, I replied wrong answer, the answer is for AMK S5000.
For Dazzne camera, their 30fps version use Novatek 96655 chipset, and 60fps use Ambaralla A7 chipset.
 
SJCAM SJ7 Star vs Gopro Hero 5. Day time footage is coming. SJ6 Legend v1.4 footage coming soon :)

 
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