DJI Osmo Action 5 vs AKASO Brave 8: The Ultimate Action Camera Showdown for Creators in 2025

When it comes to capturing your adventures, vlogs, and creative content, an action camera is a powerful tool. But with so many choices out there, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed—especially when comparing a premium camera like the DJI Osmo Action 5 with a budget powerhouse like the AKASO Brave 8.

Both cameras launched with creators in mind, and while their price points are worlds apart, they surprisingly share some features. In this deep-dive comparison, we’ll explore every key aspect of these two cameras: video quality, stabilization, photo performance, audio, build quality, accessories, and overall value.

Whether you're a beginner building your content kit or a seasoned pro looking for a secondary camera, this guide will help you decide which action cam deserves a place in your bag.

⚙️ At a Glance: Key Specs

Feature	DJI Osmo Action 5	AKASO Brave 8
Video Resolution	4K @ 120fps	4K @ 60fps
Slow Motion	1080p @ 240fps	1080p @ 120fps
Photo Resolution	64MP	48MP
Image Stabilization	RockSteady 3.0+	SuperSmooth EIS 2.0
Waterproof (without case)	18m (59 ft)	10m (33 ft)
Front Screen	Yes (Full-color display)	Yes (Status + framing screen)
Rear Screen	2.25” Touchscreen	2” Touchscreen
Audio Setup	Triple mic + wind reduction	Dual mic (no wind reduction)
Battery Life (4K mode)	~100 mins (4K/60)	~90 mins (4K/30)
Mounting Options	Standard tripod thread	GoPro-style mount + accessories
Included Accessories	Minimal	Extensive (2 batteries, mounts)
Price (CAD)	~$499	369.99

🎥 Video Quality: Pro vs Budget — But Closer Than You’d Think

DJI Osmo Action 5

The Osmo Action 5 is a video powerhouse. With 4K shooting at a silky-smooth 120fps, it gives you cinematic slow-motion footage without sacrificing resolution. DJI’s advanced image processing delivers rich contrast, vibrant colors, and excellent dynamic range, even in high-contrast scenes. The new 1/1.3” sensor makes a noticeable difference in low-light performance, producing less noise and better shadow detail compared to earlier models.

Highlights:

10-bit D-Log M color profile for pro-grade editing
Dual native ISO for cleaner night footage
4K120, 2.7K120, 1080p240 slow motion

AKASO Brave 8

The Brave 8 surprises at its price point. It maxes out at 4K 60fps, which is more than enough for everyday creators. The footage is sharp, colorful, and ideal for vlogs, family trips, biking footage, or YouTube B-roll. While it lacks 10-bit color or true log profiles, it still performs impressively in daylight. However, in low light or mixed lighting, it begins to show limitations with increased noise and reduced clarity.

Highlights:

Supports HDR video (basic)
Great for travel, biking, everyday scenes
Limited slow-mo (1080p @ 120fps max)

✅ Winner: DJI Osmo Action 5 — More flexibility, higher frame rates, better low-light.

🤸 Stabilization: RockSteady vs SuperSmooth

DJI Osmo Action 5

DJI has refined its RockSteady 3.0+ stabilization to a level that’s almost gimbal-like. Whether you’re running, mountain biking, or walking while vlogging, the footage stays impressively stable. HorizonBalancing and HorizonSteady are huge bonuses, especially for creators who want cinematic panning or level shots without needing extra gear.

Modes:

RockSteady 3.0+ (all resolutions)
HorizonBalancing (tilt limit up to 45°)
HorizonSteady (full 360° leveling)

AKASO Brave 8

AKASO’s SuperSmooth EIS 2.0 is very good for casual creators. It smooths out minor handshakes and walking footage nicely but can get jittery with fast lateral motion or action-heavy scenes like skiing or trail running. There’s no horizon-leveling feature, and it lacks advanced control over stabilization modes.

✅ Winner: DJI Osmo Action 5 — Superior tech, smoother results, more options.

📸 Photo Quality: Still Frames That Pop

DJI Osmo Action 5

With 64MP stills, RAW support, and smart photo enhancements, the Osmo Action 5 is more than just a video tool. It’s a capable compact camera replacement for on-the-go creators. Colors are natural, detail is excellent, and dynamic range is above average—especially in daylight.

RAW + JPEG modes available
Smart HDR and exposure metering
Great sharpness and contrast

AKASO Brave 8

The Brave 8 offers up to 48MP still photos, and while the resolution is high, it doesn’t quite match the sharpness or consistency of DJI. You also don’t get RAW format or extensive photo controls. That said, it’s still a great photo companion for casual users or social media creators.

Burst, time-lapse, and long exposure modes
Good results in bright light
Struggles with highlights and shadows

✅ Winner: DJI Osmo Action 5 — Sharper, more flexible, better processing.

🎙️ Audio: Windy Days Will Decide This One

DJI Osmo Action 5

Audio is often overlooked, but not here. DJI’s triple-microphone system includes wind reduction and delivers clear, directional audio. Even in outdoor vlogs, voices sound full and natural. It also supports external USB-C mics.

Triple-mic array
Intelligent wind filtering
Great for on-the-go vlogs

AKASO Brave 8

The Brave 8 has dual mics that have improved from earlier models, but audio is still its weakest link. Wind noise is an issue, and vocals can sound thin or distant. It supports external mic input, but connecting one compromises its waterproofing.

✅ Winner: DJI Osmo Action 5 — Much clearer audio with no compromises.

🔋 Battery Life & Accessories: One is Ready on Day One

DJI Osmo Action 5

Battery life is decent at up to 100 minutes at 4K/60fps, thanks to DJI’s new power-efficient chip. The downside? The package includes just one battery and minimal mounts, so you’ll likely need to spend more for extras.

Intelligent charging case available (sold separately)
Magnetic mounts are great but cost extra

AKASO Brave 8

Here’s where AKASO shines. You get:

2 batteries
Dual battery charger
Waterproof case
Dozens of mounts (bike, helmet, tripod, adhesive)
Remote control + carrying case

You can unbox and start shooting everything from vlogs to adventure footage without buying a single extra item.

✅ Winner: AKASO Brave 8 — Unmatched value in the box.

💰 Price-to-Performance: Budget vs Premium

DJI Osmo Action 5: ~$499 CAD
AKASO Brave 8: ~$219 CAD

Is the DJI worth the extra $280? For professionals, yes. You get better stabilization, video quality, audio, and color options. But if your budget is under $300 and you want a full action cam setup with batteries, mounts, and solid 4K60 performance—the Brave 8 is unbeatable for value.

DJI Osmo Action 5 vs AKASO Brave 8: The Ultimate Action Camera Showdown for Creators in 2025

🧠 Final Thoughts: Which One Is Right for You?

Creator Profile	Best Choice
Beginner / Budget-Conscious	AKASO Brave 8
Travel Vlogger	DJI Osmo Action 5
Adventure Sports Enthusiast	DJI Osmo Action 5
First Action Cam Buyer	AKASO Brave 8
YouTuber or TikToker	Both (DJI preferred for pros)
Pro with Secondary Cam Needs	Brave 8 as a backup