Eken Action Camera Spec Review Top Features Uncovered

The Eken action camera spec delivers impressive 4K video recording at 30fps, setting a high bar for budget-friendly performance. With advanced image stabilization, a 2-inch touchscreen, and built-in Wi-Fi, it rivals premium models while remaining accessible to adventure seekers and content creators alike.

Key Takeaways

• 4K video quality: Capture stunning, detailed footage with top-tier resolution.
• Waterproof design: Dive up to 30m without a case for versatile use.
• Wide-angle lens: Get more in frame with 170° field of view.
• Long battery life: Record up to 120 minutes on a single charge.
• Wireless connectivity: Easily transfer files via built-in Wi-Fi and app.
• Stable footage: Built-in EIS reduces shake for smooth, professional videos.

The Rise of Eken Action Cameras: Why They’re Gaining Traction

You’ve probably seen those viral clips on social media—someone skydiving, mountain biking through a forest, or snorkeling with sea turtles, all captured in stunning clarity and smooth motion. Chances are, an Eken action camera spec played a role in that. Once overshadowed by GoPro and DJI, Eken has quietly built a loyal following among budget-savvy adventurers who want high-quality footage without breaking the bank.

I first tried an Eken camera during a weekend kayaking trip. I was skeptical—how good could a $100 camera really be? But after reviewing the footage, I was impressed. The colors popped, the stabilization held up, and the 4K video looked sharp even on my 27-inch monitor. That experience sparked my curiosity: What makes Eken stand out? Is it just the price, or are there real performance wins hiding behind that sleek, compact body?

This Eken action camera spec review dives deep into the features, performance, and real-world usability of Eken’s latest models. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, a content creator on a budget, or just curious about the specs behind the hype, this guide will help you understand what Eken offers—and where it might fall short.

Key Eken Action Camera Specifications: What the Numbers Really Mean

When shopping for an action camera, specs can feel like a foreign language. But understanding them is crucial. Let’s break down the core Eken action camera spec list and what each one means for your shooting experience.

Video Resolution and Frame Rates

Most Eken models, like the H9R and H9 Pro, offer 4K video at 30fps, 1080p at 60fps, and 720p at 120fps. That’s a solid range for most users. But what does it actually mean?

• 4K at 30fps: Ideal for cinematic, detailed footage. Great for landscapes, slow-motion pans, and YouTube content. However, 30fps isn’t ideal for fast action—think sprinting downhill or catching air on a bike.
• 1080p at 60fps: The sweet spot. Smooth motion for action shots, better low-light performance, and easier editing. This is what I used during my kayaking trip—no motion blur, even when paddling through rapids.
• 720p at 120fps: For slow-motion effects. Perfect for capturing water droplets, skateboard tricks, or your dog mid-jump. Just keep in mind: 720p is lower resolution, so it’s best for social media clips, not print or large screens.

Pro tip: Always match your frame rate to your activity. If you’re filming a fast-paced sport, go for 60fps or higher. For scenic vlogging, 4K at 30fps gives you that rich, movie-like quality.

Image Sensor and Low-Light Performance

Eken cameras typically use a Sony IMX179 or similar 16MP sensor. That’s not top-tier (like GoPro’s 23MP sensor), but it’s more than capable for most users. The real test? How it handles low light.

In my experience, Eken cameras struggle a bit in dim environments. Shooting a bonfire at night, the footage was grainy, and the auto-exposure kept adjusting. That said, with a small LED light attached, the image cleaned up significantly.

Compared to GoPro, Eken’s dynamic range is narrower. Bright skies can get blown out, and shadows lose detail. But for daytime use—hiking, surfing, biking—it’s more than adequate.

Battery Life and Charging

Most Eken models come with a 1050mAh battery. On average, you’ll get:

• 90 minutes of 4K/30fps recording
• 120 minutes of 1080p/60fps
• 150+ minutes in standby or timelapse mode

That’s decent, but not class-leading. I’ve had to swap batteries mid-hike on longer trips. The good news? The battery is removable and swappable—just pack spares. Charging takes about 2.5 hours via USB-C, which is standard.

Tip: Use airplane mode and turn off Wi-Fi/Bluetooth when not needed. This can extend battery life by 15–20%.

Build Quality and Design: Rugged, But Not Flawless

Action cameras live in tough environments—dust, water, drops, and extreme temps. So build quality matters. Let’s see how Eken holds up.

Waterproof Rating and Housing

Eken’s flagship models are waterproof up to 30 meters (100 feet) without a housing. That’s a big selling point. I tested this while snorkeling in shallow reefs. The camera stayed dry, and the touchscreen responded well underwater.

But here’s the catch: the touchscreen can be finicky when wet. I had to tap multiple times to stop recording. Also, the microphone picks up water noise—like a slight “bubbling” effect. For vlogging, I’d recommend a waterproof case with a built-in mic cover.

The included housing is solid—thick, rubberized, and with a secure latch. It adds extra protection for deep dives or rough terrain. Just don’t expect GoPro-level precision in the buttons or seals.

Durability and Drop Tests

I accidentally dropped my Eken H9R from about 4 feet onto a rocky trail. No case, just the naked camera. The screen cracked—but the internals survived. Footage was unaffected, and it still recorded after the impact.

That said, the lens cover is plastic, not Gorilla Glass. After a few scrapes, mine developed micro-scratches that slightly blurred distant shots. I now use a tempered glass protector—highly recommended.

For extreme sports, consider a protective cage or frame mount. Eken offers one, but it’s sold separately. Not a dealbreaker, but it’s worth noting.

Size, Weight, and Mounting

Eken cameras are compact—about the size of a matchbox. Weight? Around 60 grams. That makes them ideal for helmet, chest, or handlebar mounts.

I used a chest mount during a mountain bike trail run. The camera stayed steady, and the low profile didn’t catch on branches. The universal GoPro-style mount system means you can use any third-party accessory—tripods, suction cups, even drone mounts.

One gripe: The side door (for battery and SD card) is a bit stiff. If you’re changing cards in cold or wet conditions, it can be frustrating. A small silicone grip would help.

Video Quality and Stabilization: Where Eken Shines (and Struggles)

Specs tell part of the story. Real-world video performance tells the rest. Let’s talk about how Eken’s footage actually looks—and feels.

Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS)

Eken’s EIS is decent—but not magic. In 4K mode, it crops the frame by about 15%, which reduces the field of view. That’s standard for EIS, but it’s noticeable when you’re used to wide-angle shots.

On a bumpy bike ride, the stabilization smoothed out most shakes. But during sudden turns or jumps, I saw “jello effect” (wobbly, rolling frames). This is common in budget cameras with software-based stabilization.

For smoother results:

• Shoot in 1080p/60fps—less crop, better motion handling
• Use a gimbal for ultra-smooth footage (Eken supports external mounts)
• Enable “Ultra Stabilization” mode (available on newer models)—but expect more crop and lower bitrate

Color Science and Dynamic Range

Eken’s default color profile is vibrant—almost oversaturated. Skies look blue, grass looks green, and skin tones are warm. It’s great for social media, but not ideal for color grading in post.

I compared a sunset shot with my GoPro Hero 9. The GoPro had better dynamic range—clouds weren’t blown out, and shadows retained detail. Eken’s version looked punchy but lost some texture in the clouds.

Good news? Eken offers a “Flat” color profile (like GoPro’s “Protune”) for more neutral footage. It’s perfect if you plan to edit in DaVinci Resolve or Premiere Pro. Just remember: flat footage looks dull straight out of the camera—you’ll need to adjust contrast and saturation.

Audio Quality

Let’s be honest: built-in mics on action cameras are never great. Eken is no exception. The mic is directional, which helps reduce wind noise, but it still picks up a lot of ambient sound.

On a windy beach, my voice was barely audible. In a quiet forest, it was better—but still flat and lacking depth. For vlogging or interviews, I’d always use an external mic (like a Rode Wireless Go II) or record audio separately and sync it in editing.

Tip: Use a windscreen cover—even a small foam one makes a big difference in windy conditions.

User Experience: Touchscreen, Controls, and App Integration

How easy is it to use an Eken camera? Let’s break down the interface, app, and day-to-day usability.

Touchscreen and Physical Buttons

The 2-inch touchscreen is responsive—most of the time. In direct sunlight, it’s hard to see, but the anti-reflective coating helps. I found myself using the physical buttons more often: one for power, one for shutter, and a mode toggle.

Switching between photo, video, and timelapse is quick. But the menu system is a bit clunky. Scrolling through settings takes longer than on GoPro or DJI. And the font is small—hard to read with gloves on.

Pro tip: Set your most-used mode as the default. I set mine to 1080p/60fps video—just press the shutter button, and you’re rolling.

Wi-Fi and Mobile App

Eken’s app (called “Eken Action Cam”) is available for iOS and Android. It lets you:

• Preview the camera feed on your phone
• Change settings remotely
• Download and edit clips
• Start/stop recording

The app is functional, but not polished. I’ve had connection drops during hikes, and the UI feels outdated. That said, it’s free, and it works—most of the time.

For smoother performance:

• Keep your phone within 30 feet
• Turn off other Wi-Fi devices
• Restart the app if it freezes

Bonus: The app supports live streaming to YouTube and Facebook. I tried it at a local festival—the stream was stable, but the audio was delayed by about 2 seconds. Not ideal for real-time interaction, but okay for pre-recorded events.

SD Card Compatibility and Storage

Eken supports microSD cards up to 128GB (U3 speed recommended). I used a 64GB SanDisk Extreme card—no issues. 4K video eats up space fast: about 1GB per 2 minutes.

One thing I love: the camera shows remaining recording time in the viewfinder. No more guessing how much space is left.

Warning: Avoid cheap, off-brand cards. I tried a $10 card once—it corrupted after 10 minutes of 4K recording. Stick with reputable brands like SanDisk, Samsung, or Kingston.

Accessories, Value, and Real-World Use Cases

Specs and performance matter—but so does value. Is Eken worth the price? Let’s look at what you get for your money.

What’s in the Box?

Most Eken kits include:

• Camera body
• Waterproof housing
• 2 batteries
• Charger
• Basic mounts (helmet, handlebar, flat adhesive)
• USB-C cable
• User manual

Compared to GoPro, which often sells the camera without mounts, Eken gives you more out of the box. For under $120, that’s a solid deal.

But some accessories are missing: no external mic input, no HDMI out, and no built-in GPS. If you need those, you’ll have to look elsewhere.

Real-World Use Cases

Here’s how I’ve used my Eken camera:

• Travel vlogging: Lightweight, easy to use. I mounted it on a small tripod for talking head shots. 4K footage looked great on YouTube.
• Fitness tracking: Attached to my bike handlebar for training rides. The 1080p/60fps mode captured every bump and turn.
• Family events: Used at a birthday party. Kids loved seeing themselves on the screen. The wide-angle lens captured the whole room.
• Underwater exploration: Snorkeling in the Caribbean. The waterproof design held up, and the colors were vibrant—just avoid deep shadows.

One limitation: no live preview when using the housing. You can’t see what you’re filming until you pop it out. For complex shots, this can be frustrating.

Value Comparison: Eken vs. Competitors

Let’s compare Eken to similar-priced options:

Feature	Eken H9 Pro	GoPro Hero 9 (used/refurb)	DJI Osmo Action 3 (budget)
Price (approx)	$110	$180	$170
Video Resolution	4K/30fps, 1080p/60fps	5K/30fps, 4K/60fps	4K/120fps, 1080p/240fps
Stabilization	EIS (software)	HyperSmooth 3.0 (hardware + software)	RockSteady 2.0 (hardware)
Waterproof	30m (no case)	10m (no case)	18m (no case)
Battery Life	90 min (4K)	115 min (4K)	160 min (4K)
App Quality	Basic, functional	Excellent, feature-rich	Good, intuitive

As you can see, Eken wins on price and waterproofing. But GoPro and DJI offer better stabilization, higher frame rates, and superior apps. For casual users, Eken is a great entry point. For pros, the extra $50–70 for GoPro/DJI might be worth it.

Final Verdict: Who Should Buy an Eken Action Camera?

After months of testing, I’ve come to appreciate what Eken brings to the table. It’s not perfect—but for the price, it’s impressively capable.

The Eken action camera spec list checks most boxes: 4K video, waterproof design, good battery life, and solid stabilization. It’s ideal for:

• Beginners dipping their toes into action videography
• Budget-conscious travelers and vloggers
• Families capturing outdoor adventures
• Content creators who need a reliable B-camera

Where it falls short: low-light performance, audio quality, and app polish. If you’re shooting in dark environments or need pro-grade audio, consider pairing it with external gear. And if you edit heavily, the flat color profile is a lifesaver.

My advice? Don’t expect GoPro-level performance. But if you want a tough, compact camera that delivers great 4K footage for under $120, Eken is a smart choice. It’s not the flashiest, but it’s dependable—and that matters more than specs on paper.

So, should you buy one? If you’re looking for a value-packed action camera that handles most everyday adventures with ease, yes. Just pack extra batteries, a good SD card, and maybe a mic. Then hit the trails, waves, or skies—and let your Eken capture the moment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key Eken action camera specs I should know?

The Eken action camera specs include 4K/30fps video recording, a 170° wide-angle lens, and built-in Wi-Fi for remote control. It also features loop recording, time-lapse, and waterproof housing up to 30 meters. These specs make it competitive for budget-friendly action cameras.

Does the Eken action camera support external microphones?

No, the Eken action camera lacks an external microphone input, so audio is captured through its built-in mic. For better sound quality, consider using a windscreen or recording in quieter environments. This is a common limitation in entry-level action cameras.

How long does the Eken action camera battery last?

The included 900mAh battery offers about 90 minutes of continuous 4K recording. Battery life varies based on settings like resolution, Wi-Fi usage, and temperature. Carrying a spare battery is recommended for extended use.

Can I use the Eken action camera for live streaming?

No, the Eken action camera does not support live streaming due to the lack of HDMI or USB video output. It’s designed for recording footage to a microSD card, which can be reviewed later via Wi-Fi or file transfer.

What memory card size is compatible with Eken action camera specs?

The Eken action camera supports microSD cards up to 128GB (Class 10 or higher recommended). For 4K recording, a high-speed card ensures smooth performance and prevents frame drops. Always format the card in-camera for best results.

Is the Eken action camera waterproof without a case?

No, the Eken action camera requires its included waterproof housing for submersion up to 30 meters. The bare camera is only splash-resistant. Always secure the housing properly to avoid water damage during underwater use.