Through this article, we will compare another brand of action cam produced by Eken and GoPro. Let’s have a look at each other’s similarities and differences.
Contents
EKEN H6s
- Display
The EKEN V8s has a “dual display” similar to H8 series cameras, which means a data/status display on the front and a 2” live view screen on the backside. Same layout compared to GoPro Hero 4 silver. The 2″ display on the back has a 320×240 pixel resolution.
- Battery
Like the other EKEN models, H6s features a 1050 mAh battery. Charging time is 3 hrs and recording time in 4K is stated with 50mins.
Also not that while charging you can’t record a video or take photos, so you can’t use EKEN H6s as a dash camera!
The new rounded batteries are available at Banggood for 4.99 USD.
| Eken H6S | Gopro | |
|---|---|---|
| Shop now at Amazon | click here | click here |
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| Product Dimensions | 2.36 x 0.91 x 1.57 inches | 1.75 x 2.44 x 1.26 inches |
| Item Weight | 2.82 ounces | 4.2 ounces |
Dimensions
EKEN H6s has the same size & button layout as EKEN H8 series and GoPro Hero 4 cameras. EKEN H9 is a bit larger and has the same size as SJCAM cameras (SJ4000 & SJ 5000 series). As EKEN H6s is the same size as a GoPro Hero 4 it is compatible with most GoPro accessories.
59 x 21.4 x 41 mm; 61g (including battery)
Accessories
Like all newer EKEN packages, EKEN H6s comes with a great set of accessories including a 2nd battery and mini tripod. The underwater case seems to have a new design with lens hood to avoid flares.
Functions & Settings
Scrolling through the menu is the same as for other EKEN cameras. With Mode button on the front of the camera you can cycle through the main menu. To start recording, press the shutter button on top, if you reached the settings, also press the shutter to enter the sub menu. The main modes consist of:
- Video
- Time-lapse Video (a video file of your time-lapse is created)
- Photo
- Burst Photo
- Time-Lapse (which is photo time-lapse where individual photos are taken)
- Playback (Video & Photo)
- Settings, with the following options:
Settings
Video Resolution:
- 4k – 30fps
- 4K – 25fps (EIS = electronic image stabilisation: on)
- 2,7K – 30fps (EIS)
- 1080p – 60fps (EIS)
- 1080p – 30fps (EIS)
It is currently not possible to turn off image stabilization.
App (Ez iCam)
EKEN H6s uses Ez ICam App (same as EKEN H9 & H8 series cameras) available for Android and iOS.
How to connect:
- You have to switch on the camera’s wifi (press the wifi button) and then look on your phone for network iCam-H6s followed by a series of numbers.
- The standard password is 1234567890
- Open up the EZ iCam App and select your camera – then the live view is show.
GOPRO HERO 8 BLACK
The launch of the Hero 8 Black brings some improvements over the previous generation, but is it enough? If you already have an action camera does the quality and feature set of the Hero 8 Black make you want to upgrade?
Key specifications
- 12MP sensor
- 4K/60p, 2.7K/120p and 1080/240p video (up to 100 Mbps bit rate)
- H.264 and H.265 codecs
- HyperSmooth 2.0 video stabilization
- LiveBurst captures 1.5 seconds of photos or video before shot
- Integrated mounting ‘fingers’ attach directly to GoPro mounts
- Optional ‘Mods’ add features like 3.5mm mic jack, HDMI-out, selfie screen and LED light
- Waterproof
Image quality
Where do you see improvement when moving from the Hero 7 Black to the Hero 8? One feature that’s attracting attention is HyperSmooth 2.0, GoPro’s image stabilization technology, which claims to rival gimbal levels of image stabilization without the need for balancing, mounting or powering an external handle. But can it actually deliver, and is it a big enough improvement over the previous generation to convince people to part with their money and upgrade?
Before I started using this camera I was incredibly skeptical, but having tested this feature over the past few weeks it does deliver a very good result, even managing to smooth out some of the bumps associated with footfalls, which is very difficult to achieve on standard gimbals.
That said, overall the results are surprisingly effective, even when using the boost mode, although that’s not available at 4K/60p. Be aware that HyperSmooth crops the image about 10% (and somewhat more in the most stabilized boost mode).
Two steps forward and one step back?
Along with some useful additions, this new camera also changes some features – and not for the better. For example, it’s no longer possible for the user to change the front element of the lens if it becomes cracked or chipped. GoPro’s stance is ‘GoPro does not offer a repair service on our cameras as, due to their size and design, the cost of parts and labor for performing such a specific repair would be more expensive than replacing the camera outright if it’s covered by warranty.’
An action camera is a great addition to a filmmaker’s tool kit, and if you need a new one the Hero 8 Black is a solid choice. However, while there’s a certain FOMO—a fear of missing out—and even peer pressure to have the latest and greatest, it probably doesn’t make financial sense to upgrade every year for only minor improvements.
Eken H6S vs Gopro
Conclusion
EKEN H6s is about double the price of an EKEN H9, is it worth it? Based on the specs I think the photo mode will be better for sure. Simply because the 14 MP Panasonic sensor is better than a 4MP Omnivision sensor. I’m not quite sure when it comes to HD video, I hope I can test the camera soon.