Under $100 for an “action” “sports” camera – ExtremeX review

Is it possible to get the features, the quality, the durability, the flexibility, the stunning action that comes from what is known quite simply as “GoPro”?  for under $100? The high-end action cameras that have that brand and others of similar quality – offer something amazing – but how does a low-cost model compare?

Well the answer to the first question is quite simply no.

I’ve been playing around with the ExtremeX sports action camera which Officeworks are selling for just $84 – that’s a pretty cool and very attractive price you have to admit.  So what’s the catch.

Well – before we look at the downside lets look at the upside.  It’s $84 – that’s a great price.  It’s super light – lighter even than the GoPro.  And it has a screen – yep, on the back, a screen so you can see what you’re aiming at.  All of which are good reasons to consider it.

But, the picture quality is not a patch on the GoPro.

I filmed with them side-by-side today, and you can see this for yourself.

The audio is better, the lens is better, the colours are better and the picture clearer.  Quality is just not a patch on a GoPro.

Now while $84 is cheap, it’s only $200 less than a GoPro and I’d say you’re getting less than a 3rd the quality.

Look in the video above – now look outside the car, at the trees I drive past, the colour and clarity is excellent on the GoPro.

So who’s this camera for?

Teens.  I reckon this would be a great present for early to mid-teens who love their BMX or Skateboarding, clip it on, wear the chest harness – whatever, capture stuff and share with mates.  For $84 – it’s just perfect for that.

But if you’re looking for pro video – don’t cut corners, you get what you pay for.

This thing earns points for its size, price, and the touch screen on the back, which while small and a bit clunky to use the touch interface – does what you want from these cameras.

Available at Officeworks stores for $84 – Online details only (no online buying) here

[schema type=”review” rev_name=”ExtremeX Sports Action Camera” rev_body=”For the price its great fun, but the quality leaves a lot to be desired when compared to the premium models” author=”Trevor Long” pubdate=”2014-05-17″ user_review=”2″ min_review=”0″ max_review=”5″ ]