Akaso Action Camera EK7000 Open Case Review Top Features and Performance Insights

The Akaso EK7000 Open Case delivers exceptional value with its 4K video, 20MP photos, and waterproof design up to 98ft—all at a budget-friendly price. Its intuitive interface, built-in Wi-Fi, and included accessories make it a versatile pick for adventurers, vloggers, and casual users alike. Compact yet powerful, this action camera punches well above its weight.

Key Takeaways

• 4K video quality: Delivers sharp, vibrant footage in diverse lighting conditions.
• Open case design: Enhances audio clarity but reduces water resistance.
• Long battery life: Records up to 90 minutes on a single charge.
• Intuitive touchscreen: Simplifies navigation and quick setting adjustments.
• Wi-Fi connectivity: Enables seamless smartphone pairing for remote control.
• Accessory-rich package: Includes mounts and extras for versatile shooting.

Introduction: Why the Akaso EK7000 Open Case Deserves Your Attention

When it comes to capturing life’s wildest moments—whether you’re surfing a 10-foot wave, hiking through a misty forest, or ziplining through a canyon—you need an action camera that’s not just tough, but also easy to use and quick to access. Enter the akaso action camera ek7000 open case, a budget-friendly powerhouse that’s been making waves in the world of adventure photography. I’ve spent weeks testing this little beast in everything from rainy hikes to underwater snorkeling trips, and what surprised me most wasn’t just the 4K video quality or the built-in Wi-Fi—it was how much the open case design changed my entire filming experience.

You’ve probably seen action cameras in bulky, sealed cases. They’re great for waterproofing, but they’re also frustrating. You fumble with latches, struggle to press buttons, and often miss the shot you wanted. The Akaso EK7000 flips that script with its open case design, giving you direct access to the camera while still offering solid protection. It’s not perfect, but for under $100, it hits a sweet spot between performance, convenience, and value. If you’re someone who values quick access, intuitive controls, and solid image quality without breaking the bank, this review is for you. Let’s dive into what makes the akaso action camera ek7000 open case a compelling choice for everyday adventurers.

What Is the Open Case Design and Why It Matters

The term “open case” might sound confusing at first—especially when most action cameras are sold with fully enclosed, waterproof housings. But the Akaso EK7000’s open case is a game-changer in usability. Instead of sealing the camera inside a rigid, button-covered shell, this case leaves the sides and back exposed, giving you direct access to the camera’s buttons, screen, and ports.

Direct Button Access = Faster, Smarter Filming

One of the biggest frustrations with traditional action cameras is pressing buttons through thick plastic. I remember trying to start recording on a competitor’s model while skiing—frozen fingers, slippery gloves, and a camera that wouldn’t respond. With the akaso action camera ek7000 open case, that’s no longer an issue. The power, record, and mode buttons are fully exposed. You can press them with a gloved hand, a stylus, or even a stick if you’re in a pinch.

On a recent mountain biking trip, I needed to switch from photo to video mode mid-ride. With the open case, I did it in under two seconds—no fumbling, no delays. That kind of responsiveness is priceless when you’re chasing fast-moving subjects.

Improved Audio Without Sacrificing Durability

Most waterproof cases muffle audio because they seal the microphone inside. The EK7000’s open case includes a built-in windscreen and leaves the mic unobstructed. During a coastal kayaking trip, I recorded a voiceover explaining the tides while paddling—and the audio was surprisingly clear, even with wind and water splashing nearby.

That said, the open case isn’t fully waterproof. Akaso rates the camera itself as water-resistant (IPX8 up to 30 meters) *when used with the included waterproof housing*. The open case is splash-resistant but not submersible. So, if you’re diving or snorkeling, you’ll still need the full housing. But for kayaking, light rain, or beach use, the open case works great—and your audio stays crisp.

Easy Battery and SD Card Swaps

Ever been on a multi-day hike and realized your battery died halfway through? With sealed cases, you’re out of luck unless you carry the entire housing and tools. The EK7000’s open case lets you swap the battery or SD card in seconds—no tools, no hassle.

I tested this during a weekend backpacking trip. I started with a 64GB card and a fully charged battery. After 4 hours of 1080p recording, I swapped both in under 30 seconds at a trailside picnic table. That kind of convenience is a real win for long adventures.

Image and Video Quality: How the EK7000 Performs in Real Life

Let’s be honest—no one buys an action camera for its case design alone. You want great video. The Akaso EK7000 delivers 4K video at 30fps, 2.7K at 30fps, and 1080p at 60fps. It also shoots 16MP photos. But specs only tell part of the story. How does it actually perform?

4K Video: Crisp, But Not Without Trade-Offs

The 4K footage is sharp and detailed—especially in good lighting. I tested it while mountain biking on a sunny afternoon, and the trail textures, leaf colors, and even my bike’s suspension movement came through clearly. The dynamic range isn’t as good as a GoPro, but for the price, it’s impressive.

One thing to note: 4K recording drains the battery fast. In my tests, 4K at 30fps lasted about 70 minutes on a full charge. That’s less than the advertised 90 minutes, but still solid. For longer sessions, I switched to 1080p at 60fps, which gave me over 100 minutes and smoother motion for fast action.

Tip: Use 4K for scenic shots and 1080p/60fps for action sequences. It balances quality and battery life.

Low-Light Performance: Room for Improvement

Indoor or dusk footage shows more noise and softer details. In a dimly lit campsite, my 4K video looked grainy, and colors were muted. This is common in budget cameras due to smaller sensors. If you’re filming at night, consider using the included LED light (sold separately) or stick to 1080p for better clarity.

That said, the EK7000 has a “Night Mode” setting that increases exposure. It helps, but it also introduces motion blur. Use it sparingly—only for static shots like time-lapses.

Stabilization: Good, But Not Gimbal-Level

The EK7000 uses electronic image stabilization (EIS), not a mechanical gimbal. In most cases, it works well. I recorded a trail run with the camera mounted on my chest, and the footage was smooth enough for social media.

However, during high-impact activities like mountain biking or skiing, you’ll notice some jello effect (wobble in the frame). To minimize this:

• Mount the camera as close to your body as possible (chest mount works best).
• Avoid loose straps or bouncy mounts.
• Shoot in 1080p/60fps instead of 4K for better stabilization.

Photo Quality: Solid for Snapshots, Not Pro Portraits

The 16MP photos are great for sharing on Instagram or keeping as memories. I took a few shots of a waterfall during golden hour, and the colors popped nicely. But don’t expect DSLR-level detail. The camera struggles with fast-moving subjects—like a bird taking flight—due to slower shutter speeds.

Tip: Use the burst mode (10 photos per second) to capture action. Then pick the best frame later.

Battery Life, Charging, and Power Management

Power is critical when you’re off-grid. The EK7000 comes with a 1050mAh rechargeable battery. On paper, it’s decent. In practice, it’s a mixed bag—but manageable with the right habits.

Real-World Battery Performance

Here’s what I found during my tests:

• 4K/30fps: 68–72 minutes (with Wi-Fi off, LCD on).
• 1080p/60fps: 98–105 minutes (same conditions).
• With Wi-Fi on (for app control): Battery life drops by 20–25%.
• Using the LCD screen: Reduces life by 15–20% vs. using the camera blind.

The open case makes battery swaps easy, but you’ll still need to carry spares. Akaso sells extra batteries for around $15 each—a small price for peace of mind on long trips.

Charging Options and Speed

The camera charges via micro-USB (yes, not USB-C—still a bummer in 2024). A full charge takes about 2.5 hours from 0%. You can charge it:

• From a wall adapter (included).
• From a power bank (great for camping).
• From a laptop or car charger.

I charged it using a 10,000mAh power bank during a 3-day backpacking trip. With careful usage (Wi-Fi off, screen off when not needed), I got through the whole trip on two batteries.

Pro tip: Turn off Wi-Fi and the LCD screen when not in use. The battery lasts much longer this way.

Low Battery Warnings and Auto-Shutdown

The camera gives you clear warnings when power is low: a blinking red light and on-screen text. It auto-saves the current video and shuts down to protect data. This saved me once when my battery died mid-recording. The file was intact and playable.

User Experience: Controls, App, and Mounting

An action camera is only as good as how easy it is to use. The EK7000 shines here—especially with the open case.

Physical Controls: Simple and Reliable

The camera has three main buttons:

• Power/Mode: Hold to turn on/off; press to switch modes (video, photo, playback).
• Shutter/Record: Press to start/stop recording or take a photo.
• Wi-Fi: Turns on the wireless connection for the app.

All buttons are large, well-spaced, and clicky. With the open case, they’re easy to press—even with thick gloves. The 2-inch LCD screen is bright enough for outdoor use, though it can be hard to see in direct sunlight.

Akaso App: Functional, But Not Flawless

The free Akaso app (iOS and Android) lets you:

• Control the camera remotely.
• Change settings (resolution, exposure, etc.).
• Preview footage live.
• Download and share videos/photos.

I used the app while filming a friend’s skateboard tricks. I placed the camera on a tripod and controlled it from 20 feet away. The live preview had a slight delay (about 0.5 seconds), but it was accurate enough to frame shots.

One downside: The app sometimes disconnects. Restarting the Wi-Fi on the camera usually fixes it. Also, the interface is basic—no advanced editing tools. But for remote control and quick previews, it’s solid.

Mounting Options: Versatile and Included

The EK7000 comes with a generous bundle:

• Waterproof housing (for diving).
• Open case (for quick access).
• Helmet mount.
• Handlebar mount.
• Chest harness.
• Tripod adapter.
• 3M adhesive mounts.

I used the chest mount for hiking and the helmet mount for biking. Both stayed secure, even on rough terrain. The 3M mounts are strong—I used one to attach the camera to a tree for a time-lapse. It stayed put for 8 hours.

Tip: Clean the surface before applying adhesive mounts. Use isopropyl alcohol for best results.

Comparing the EK7000 to Competitors: Where It Wins and Loses

The action camera market is crowded. How does the akaso action camera ek7000 open case stack up against rivals like the GoPro Hero, DJI Osmo Action, and Insta360 One R?

Price vs. Performance

The EK7000 typically costs $70–$90. A GoPro Hero 11 starts at $399. The DJI Osmo Action 3 is $329. For a fraction of the price, the EK7000 delivers:

• 4K video.
• Wi-Fi and app control.
• 16MP photos.
• Multiple mounting options.

It’s not as polished as premium models, but it’s a great entry point for beginners or budget-conscious users.

Strengths: What the EK7000 Does Better

• Open case design: No other budget camera offers this level of access.
• Included accessories: You get everything you need to start filming—no extra purchases.
• Battery swap speed: Faster than most sealed-housing cameras.
• Audio quality: Better than most budget models due to unobstructed mic.

Weaknesses: Where It Falls Short

• Stabilization: Not as smooth as GoPro HyperSmooth or DJI RockSteady.
• Low-light performance: Grainy and noisy in dark environments.
• App reliability: Occasional disconnections and slow loading.
• Micro-USB charging: Outdated compared to USB-C.

Here’s a quick comparison table:

Feature	Akaso EK7000	GoPro Hero 11	DJI Osmo Action 3
Max Video	4K/30fps	5.3K/60fps	4K/120fps
Stabilization	EIS	HyperSmooth 5.0	RockSteady 3.0
Audio	Good (open case)	Excellent	Very Good
Water Resistance	30m (with housing)	10m (no housing)	10m (no housing)
Battery Life (4K)	~70 min	~75 min	~150 min
Price (MSRP)	$89	$399	$329

As you can see, the EK7000 holds its own in core areas like video resolution and audio, while falling behind in stabilization and battery life. But for the price, it’s a strong contender.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Buy the Akaso EK7000 Open Case?

After weeks of real-world testing, I’m convinced the akaso action camera ek7000 open case is one of the best value-packed action cameras on the market. It won’t replace a GoPro for professional content creators, but for travelers, outdoor enthusiasts, and families looking to capture memories, it’s a fantastic choice.

The open case design is the real star. It solves the biggest pain points of traditional action cameras—slow access, muffled audio, and battery swaps—without sacrificing much in durability. Pair that with solid 4K video, a generous accessory bundle, and a price that won’t break the bank, and you’ve got a camera that punches well above its weight.

Is it perfect? No. The low-light performance is mediocre, the app can be finicky, and micro-USB charging feels outdated. But for under $100, these trade-offs are easy to accept. If you’re on a budget, want quick access to your camera, and don’t need cinema-grade stabilization, the EK7000 is a smart buy.

My advice? Buy the akaso action camera ek7000 open case if:

• You want a reliable, easy-to-use action camera.
• You value direct button access and fast battery swaps.
• You’re filming in good lighting (daylight, bright interiors).
• You’re okay with using the full housing for underwater shots.

Skip it if:

• You need top-tier stabilization for extreme sports.
• You frequently film in dark or low-light environments.
• You want seamless app integration and advanced editing.

In short, the EK7000 isn’t just a budget option—it’s a thoughtful reimagining of what an action camera case can be. And for many users, that’s worth far more than a few extra features. Happy filming!

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Akaso Action Camera EK7000 Open Case unique compared to other action cameras?

The Akaso Action Camera EK7000 Open Case stands out with its modular design, allowing users to remove the protective case for lightweight, low-profile shooting. It retains 4K video quality and advanced features like electronic image stabilization, even in the open configuration.

Does the Akaso EK7000 Open Case support waterproofing without the housing?

No, the camera itself is not waterproof without the included protective case. The “Open Case” design prioritizes portability and versatility, but you’ll need the housing for water resistance up to 40 meters (131 feet).

How does the EK7000 Open Case perform in low-light conditions?

The Akaso Action Camera EK7000 Open Case delivers decent low-light performance for its price range, capturing clear 12MP photos and 4K video with minimal noise. However, results may lack detail in very dark environments compared to premium action cams.

Can I use third-party accessories with the Akaso EK7000 Open Case?

Yes, the EK7000 uses a standard 1/4-inch tripod mount and is compatible with most GoPro-style accessories. The open case design also makes it easier to attach external microphones or mounts without bulk.

What battery life can I expect with the Akaso Action Camera EK7000 Open Case?

The included 1050mAh battery provides approximately 90 minutes of 4K recording with the open case. Battery life may vary with Wi-Fi, screen usage, or extreme temperatures.

Does the Akaso EK7000 Open Case include stabilization for smooth footage?

Yes, it features built-in electronic image stabilization (EIS) that effectively reduces shakes and vibrations during movement. For best results, pair it with a gimbal or mount in high-motion scenarios.