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The Vivitar 4K Action Camera with Remote (DVR917HD-BLK-BB) delivers surprisingly sharp 4K video and a handy wireless remote at a budget-friendly price. While it lacks advanced stabilization and low-light performance of premium brands, it’s a solid pick for casual adventurers seeking reliable, high-resolution capture without breaking the bank.
Key Takeaways
- 4K video quality: Delivers sharp, vibrant footage for action-packed moments.
- Remote control: Conveniently capture shots without touching the camera.
- Affordable price: Budget-friendly alternative to premium action cameras.
- Waterproof case: Ready for underwater adventures up to 30 meters.
- Battery life: Lasts 90 minutes—carry spares for extended use.
- Wi-Fi connectivity: Easily transfer files to your smartphone or tablet.
- Accessory bundle: Includes mounts and gear for versatile setups.
📑 Table of Contents
- First Impressions: Unboxing the Vivitar 4K Action Camera
- Design & Build Quality: Does It Feel Cheap?
- Video and Photo Performance: 4K on a Budget?
- Features and Usability: What’s Under the Hood?
- Remote Control Deep Dive: Worth the Hype?
- Value for Money: Who Is This Camera For?
- Final Verdict: Is It Worth the Hype?
First Impressions: Unboxing the Vivitar 4K Action Camera
Let me set the scene: I’m a weekend warrior who loves capturing my mountain biking, hiking, and kayaking adventures without breaking the bank. When I unboxed the Vivitar 4K Action Camera with Remote Black DVR917HD-BLK-BB, I wasn’t expecting much—after all, Vivitar isn’t GoPro, and I’ve had my fair share of budget gear that looked great on paper but failed in real life. But here’s the twist: this little camera surprised me. Right out of the gate, the packaging felt solid, and the inclusion of a remote control (a feature I’d only seen on premium models) made me pause. Was this a hidden gem or just clever marketing?
As I dug deeper, I realized this camera isn’t trying to be a GoPro killer. Instead, it’s carving its own niche for casual users, families, and budget-conscious adventurers. Over the next few weeks, I tested it in rain, mud, and even a surprise dip in a river. Here’s my honest take—no fluff, just real-world insights.
Design & Build Quality: Does It Feel Cheap?
Size and Portability
The Vivitar DVR917HD-BLK-BB is compact and lightweight, measuring just 2.4 x 1.6 x 1.2 inches. It fits in the palm of your hand and won’t weigh down your backpack. I clipped it to my bike helmet using the included mount and barely noticed it was there. The rubberized texture on the sides adds grip, which is handy when you’re sweaty or wearing gloves. However, the plastic body feels a bit plasticky—don’t expect the premium metal finish of a DJI or GoPro. That said, it’s not flimsy, either. It survived a 3-foot drop onto concrete during a mountain biking wipeout with only a tiny scratch.
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Remote Control: A Game-Changer for Solo Adventures
The included remote is where this camera shines. It’s a small, wrist-worn device with a single button. Press it once to start recording, twice for photos, and hold it to switch modes. No more awkwardly reaching for your camera or setting timers. I used it while kayaking: I mounted the camera on my kayak’s bow, wore the remote on my wrist, and started recording as I paddled through rapids. No missed shots. The remote’s battery lasts about 6 months (it uses a replaceable CR2032 coin cell), and the 30-foot range worked flawlessly in open areas. Just don’t expect it to work through thick walls or heavy rain.
Mounts and Accessories
The camera comes with a basic set of mounts: a bike handlebar clip, a curved helmet mount, and a flat adhesive mount. All are standard 1/4-inch screw compatible, so you can easily upgrade to third-party options. The mounts themselves feel durable, though the adhesive pads aren’t as sticky as I’d like. I had one fall off my kayak after a few days—luckily, I found it in the riverbank. Pro tip: use extra waterproof tape for critical mounts.
Video and Photo Performance: 4K on a Budget?
4K Video Quality: Good, Not Great
The camera records 4K video at 30fps, which is impressive for its price. In daylight, the footage is sharp and vibrant. Colors pop, and details like tree bark or water droplets are clearly visible. Here’s a real-world example: I filmed a sunrise hike, and the golden-hour glow looked stunning. But in low light (think dusk or shaded forests), noise creeps in, and the camera struggles with dynamic range. Shadows get crushed, and bright spots blow out. It’s usable for casual clips, but don’t expect cinematic quality.
Stabilization: The Big Limitation
There’s no built-in stabilization. On a bumpy mountain bike trail, my footage was shaky—like an old home video. I had to rely on post-processing with free software like DaVinci Resolve to smooth it out. If you’re filming while moving fast, consider using a gimbal or mounting it on a stable surface. For static shots (e.g., time-lapses of a campsite), it’s fine.
Photo Quality: Decent for Snapshots
The 16MP stills are good for social media or small prints. In daylight, photos look crisp, though they lack the depth of higher-end sensors. Low-light photos are grainy, and the camera’s autofocus is slow. I missed a few shots of a deer because it took 2 seconds to focus. If you’re a serious photographer, this isn’t your tool. But for capturing quick moments (like your kid’s first bike ride), it works.
Audio: The Weakest Link
The built-in mic picks up a lot of wind noise. During a bike ride, I sounded like I was talking into a vacuum cleaner. For interviews or vlogs, you’ll need an external mic. The camera has a mic port, but Vivitar doesn’t include one in the box. Budget an extra $20 for a lavalier mic if audio matters to you.
Features and Usability: What’s Under the Hood?
Touchscreen and Menu Navigation
The 2-inch LCD screen is responsive, but the menu system feels outdated. It’s a grid of icons with text labels, and some options (like “Time Lapse”) are buried in sub-menus. It took me 10 minutes to find the 4K setting. Once you learn the layout, it’s manageable, but it’s not intuitive for first-time users. Pro tip: spend 15 minutes exploring the settings before your first adventure.
Battery Life: A Mixed Bag
The 1050mAh battery lasts about 90 minutes in 4K mode—enough for a short hike but not a full-day trip. I carried two spare batteries (sold separately) for a 5-hour kayaking session. The battery compartment is easy to open, and the camera charges via USB-C (finally!). A full charge takes 2 hours.
Waterproofing: Not as Robust as It Seems
The camera is rated IP68 waterproof, but only with the included housing. Without it, it’s “splash-proof,” not submersible. I tested it in light rain and shallow puddles, and it held up. But when I accidentally dropped it into a river (about 2 feet deep), the housing leaked, and the screen fogged up. Vivitar’s customer service sent a replacement housing for free, but it’s a reminder: this isn’t a dive camera. Stick to shallow water or use a third-party dive housing.
Connectivity: No Wi-Fi, But It Works
There’s no Wi-Fi or app for remote control, which is a bummer. To review footage, you must remove the SD card (up to 128GB, not included) and plug it into a computer. The camera supports UHS-I cards, so transfer speeds are decent. I used a 64GB card, which held 2 hours of 4K video. If you’re used to GoPro’s app, this feels like a step back. But for non-tech-savvy users, it’s simple—no pairing, no passwords.
Remote Control Deep Dive: Worth the Hype?
Ease of Use
The remote is a lifesaver for solo shooters. I filmed myself mountain biking, and the ability to start/stop recording without touching the camera meant I could focus on the trail. The remote’s button is large and tactile, so you won’t press it accidentally. It pairs automatically with the camera—no setup required.
Range and Reliability
Vivitar claims a 30-foot range, but I got about 20 feet in real-world use. It worked through light foliage and rain but failed when I was behind a thick tree. For most scenarios (e.g., filming yourself from 10 feet away), it’s reliable. Just don’t rely on it in crowded areas—I had a false trigger once when another remote was nearby.
Battery and Durability
The remote is waterproof (IPX7) and survived a kayaking spill. The battery lasts 6 months with daily use. The only downside: the wristband is basic nylon, not adjustable. If you have small wrists, it might slip. I added a rubber band to tighten it.
Value for Money: Who Is This Camera For?
Pros vs. Cons
- Pros:
- Affordable 4K video
- Remote control for solo filming
- Compact and lightweight
- Good daylight performance
- USB-C charging
- Cons:
- No stabilization
- Weak low-light performance
- Basic audio quality
- Outdated menu system
- Limited waterproofing without housing
Price Comparison
The Vivitar DVR917HD-BLK-BB retails for around $90—half the price of a GoPro HERO12. Here’s how it stacks up against competitors:
| Feature | Vivitar DVR917HD-BLK-BB | GoPro HERO12 (Budget Pick) | Akaso Brave 7 LE |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $90 | $199 | $130 |
| 4K Video | 30fps | 60fps | 30fps |
| Stabilization | No | Yes (HyperSmooth 5.0) | Yes (EIS) |
| Remote Control | Yes | No (App only) | Yes |
| Waterproof | IP68 (with housing) | 10m (no housing) | 10m (no housing) |
| Low-Light Performance | Poor | Excellent | Good |
For under $100, the Vivitar delivers where it counts: 4K video, remote control, and portability. But if stabilization and low-light performance are critical, save up for the Akaso or GoPro.
Who Should Buy It?
- Casual adventurers: If you want to film hikes, bike rides, or family vacations without spending $200+, this is a solid choice.
- Solo content creators: The remote control lets you film yourself effortlessly.
- Beginners: It’s simple to use and won’t overwhelm you with settings.
Who Should Avoid It?
- Low-light videographers: The grainy footage in dim light is a dealbreaker.
- Professional creators: You’ll miss stabilization and advanced features.
- Deep-water users: Stick to shallow water unless you buy a third-party housing.
Final Verdict: Is It Worth the Hype?
After weeks of testing, I’ll be honest: the Vivitar 4K Action Camera with Remote Black DVR917HD-BLK-BB won’t replace your GoPro. But it’s not trying to. For $90, it’s a fantastic entry point into 4K action cameras. The remote control is a standout feature—I’ve used it more than I expected. The 4K video is good in daylight, and the compact design makes it easy to carry.
That said, the lack of stabilization, poor low-light performance, and basic audio mean it’s not for everyone. If you’re filming in bright conditions, moving slowly, and don’t need Hollywood-quality footage, it’s a steal. But if you’re chasing cinematic shots or filming in challenging environments, invest in a pricier model.
Here’s my bottom line: This camera is like a trusty hatchback. It won’t win races, but it’ll get you where you need to go—and you won’t cry if it gets scratched. For casual users, it’s worth the hype. For professionals, it’s a fun backup. Just don’t expect miracles.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Vivitar 4K Action Camera with Remote stand out from other budget action cameras?
The Vivitar 4K Action Camera (DVR917HD-BLK-BB) stands out with its 4K video resolution, included wireless remote, and waterproof housing at an affordable price point. It strikes a balance between performance and value, making it ideal for casual adventurers and vloggers.
Is the Vivitar 4K Action Camera good for underwater filming?
Yes, thanks to its included waterproof case, this camera is rated for depths up to 30 meters (98 feet). This makes it suitable for snorkeling, swimming, and other water sports, though prolonged deep diving isn’t recommended.
Does the Vivitar DVR917HD-BLK-BB support image stabilization for smooth 4K footage?
No, the Vivitar 4K Action Camera lacks advanced image stabilization, so footage may appear shaky during high-motion activities. Using a tripod or gimbal can help achieve smoother results in dynamic environments.
How long does the battery last on the Vivitar 4K Action Camera with Remote?
The included 900mAh battery delivers approximately 60-90 minutes of 4K recording time. Carrying a spare battery is recommended for extended outdoor sessions or travel.
Can I control the Vivitar 4K Action Camera remotely while recording?
Yes, the included wireless remote lets you start/stop recording and take photos from up to 10 meters away. This is particularly useful for group shots, solo adventures, or mounting the camera out of reach.
What accessories come with the Vivitar DVR917HD-BLK-BB?
The package includes a waterproof case, wireless remote, rechargeable battery, USB cable, helmet and bike mounts, and basic adhesive mounts. These accessories make it ready to use straight out of the box for most action scenarios.
