F80 1080p HD Action Camera with 30m Waterproof Case Review

The F80 1080p HD Action Camera delivers sharp, vibrant footage in a rugged, adventure-ready design. With a 30m waterproof case included, it’s perfect for capturing high-quality video underwater, on trails, or in extreme conditions without extra gear. Compact, reliable, and easy to use, this camera punches above its weight for budget-conscious thrill-seekers.

Key Takeaways

• 1080p HD video: Capture crisp, detailed footage in full HD resolution.
• 30m waterproof: Dive deep with included case for underwater adventures.
• Wide-angle lens: Shoot immersive 140° views for dynamic action shots.
• Long battery life: Record up to 90 minutes on a single charge.
• Easy mounting: Attach securely to gear with versatile mounting options.
• Loop recording: Never miss a moment with continuous overwrite feature.

First Impressions: Unboxing the F80 1080p HD Action Camera

Let me start by saying I didn’t expect much when I first unboxed the F80 1080p HD action camera with 30m waterproof case. It’s not one of those big-name brands you see plastered on billboards, but sometimes the underdogs surprise you. I’ve used a few action cameras in the past—some good, some forgettable—so I was curious to see where the F80 would land. Spoiler: it’s not perfect, but it’s got a lot going for it, especially if you’re on a budget.

The box is simple, no flashy graphics or over-the-top claims. Inside, you get the camera, a 30m waterproof case, a USB charging cable, a few basic mounts, and a quick-start guide. The camera itself feels surprisingly solid for the price. It’s lightweight but doesn’t feel cheap, and the matte finish gives it a nice grip. The waterproof case is a nice touch—no need to buy one separately, which is a win for anyone planning to use this near water.

Design and Build: Simple, Functional, and Waterproof

Compact and Durable

The F80 is small—about the size of a matchbox—which makes it easy to toss in a bag or pocket. The body is made of durable plastic with a slightly textured surface, so it won’t slip out of your hand easily. The buttons are well-placed: one on the front for power and another on top for recording. There’s also a small LCD screen on the back, which is a nice addition. Not all budget cameras include one, so it’s a pleasant surprise here.

One thing I appreciate is how easy it is to operate. No need to fiddle with menus or complicated settings. Press the power button, and you’re ready to record in seconds. That’s a big plus if you’re using it for quick, on-the-go shots.

30m Waterproof Case: A Game-Changer

The included 30m waterproof case is a standout feature. It’s rated for depths up to 30 meters, which is more than enough for snorkeling, swimming, or even light scuba diving. I took it for a swim in a lake, and it handled the water pressure without a hitch. The case has a clear front panel, so you can still see the screen, and the buttons are accessible through rubberized covers. It’s not the most elegant solution, but it works.

A tip: before using it underwater, always check the seals. Even a tiny hair or piece of dust can compromise the waterproofing. I learned this the hard way with another camera—lesson learned!

Mounts and Accessories

The package includes a few basic mounts: a clip mount, a flat adhesive mount, and a bike handlebar mount. They’re nothing fancy, but they get the job done. I used the clip mount to attach the camera to my backpack while hiking, and it stayed secure even on bumpy trails. The adhesive mount is great for sticking it to a helmet or kayak, though I’d recommend cleaning the surface thoroughly before applying it. A dirty surface can lead to the camera falling off mid-ride—definitely not fun.

Video and Image Quality: Solid 1080p Performance

1080p at 60fps: Crisp and Smooth

The F80 shoots in 1080p at 60fps, which is the sweet spot for most action camera users. I tested it in various lighting conditions—bright sunlight, overcast days, and even low-light indoor settings—and the results were mostly positive. In good lighting, the footage is sharp and vibrant. Colors are accurate, and the camera handles motion well, with minimal blur during fast movements.

One thing to note: while 1080p is great for most uses, it’s not 4K. If you’re planning to crop heavily in post or need ultra-high detail, this might not be the best choice. But for everyday vlogging, travel videos, or capturing outdoor adventures, it’s more than sufficient.

Low-Light Performance: A Mixed Bag

Low-light performance is where the F80 starts to show its budget roots. In dimly lit environments, the footage gets grainy, and colors lose their vibrancy. I tried recording in a dimly lit room, and while it was usable, it wasn’t great. The camera doesn’t have a night mode or any kind of noise reduction feature, so you’re relying solely on the sensor’s ability to capture light.

A workaround? Try to use external lighting if possible. A small LED light or even a smartphone flashlight can make a big difference. Also, avoid shooting in complete darkness—some ambient light, even from a streetlamp or window, can help.

Photo Mode: Decent for Snapshots

The F80 also takes still photos, but let’s be honest: it’s not a replacement for a dedicated camera. The 12MP resolution is fine for casual shots, but don’t expect DSLR-quality images. That said, for quick, on-the-fly photos—like capturing a sunset or a funny moment—it works well. The camera has a burst mode, which is handy for action shots, though the delay between shots is noticeable.

Battery Life and Storage: What You Need to Know

Battery Life: Average but Manageable

The F80 has a built-in 1050mAh battery, which lasts about 80-90 minutes when recording continuously at 1080p. That’s not terrible, but it’s not great either. If you’re planning a long hike or a day at the beach, you’ll want to carry a spare battery or a portable charger. The good news? The battery is removable, so swapping it out is easy.

Here’s a tip: turn off Wi-Fi and the LCD screen when you’re not using them. Both drain the battery quickly. I learned this during a weekend camping trip—I left the screen on while hiking, and the battery died halfway through the day. Lesson learned: use the camera in power-saving mode when possible.

Storage: MicroSD Card Required

The camera doesn’t have internal storage, so you’ll need a microSD card. It supports cards up to 128GB, which is plenty for most users. A 32GB card can hold about 3 hours of 1080p video, which is more than enough for a day’s worth of footage. I recommend using a high-speed card (Class 10 or UHS-I) to avoid lag or dropped frames.

Pro tip: format the card in the camera before using it. This ensures compatibility and reduces the risk of file corruption. I’ve had issues with cards that weren’t formatted properly—better safe than sorry!

User Experience: Pros, Cons, and Real-World Testing

Ease of Use: Great for Beginners

If you’re new to action cameras, the F80 is a solid choice. The interface is intuitive, and the buttons are responsive. There’s a companion app (for iOS and Android) that lets you control the camera remotely, view footage, and adjust settings. It’s not the most polished app I’ve used, but it gets the job done. Pairing the camera with the app takes a few seconds, and once connected, the connection is stable.

One minor gripe: the app doesn’t have a live preview feature. You can see what the camera is recording, but there’s a slight delay. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it can be annoying when trying to frame a shot.

Real-World Testing: Hiking, Swimming, and More

I put the F80 through its paces in a variety of scenarios. Here’s how it performed:

• Hiking: The camera stayed securely mounted to my backpack, and the footage was smooth, even on rocky trails. Battery life was the only issue—I had to swap batteries halfway through a 3-hour hike.
• Swimming: With the waterproof case, the F80 handled underwater filming like a champ. The case didn’t fog up, and the buttons were easy to press underwater.
• Biking: The handlebar mount held firm, even on bumpy roads. The camera’s stabilization (more on that below) kept the footage steady.
• Low-light: As mentioned earlier, this is where the camera struggles. I tried filming a campfire at night, and the footage was grainy and dark.

Stabilization: Good, But Not Perfect

The F80 has basic electronic image stabilization (EIS), which helps smooth out minor shakes and jitters. It’s not as good as the stabilization on high-end cameras like the GoPro, but it’s better than nothing. I noticed some wobble when running or biking on rough terrain, but for most everyday activities, it’s more than adequate.

For smoother footage, try using a gimbal or a stabilizer mount. The F80 is compatible with most third-party stabilizers, which is a nice bonus.

Comparison and Value: How Does the F80 Stack Up?

Price vs. Features: A Balanced Offering

The F80 is priced in the mid-range of budget action cameras. It’s not the cheapest option out there, but it offers a lot of value for the price. Here’s a quick comparison with a few other popular models:

Feature	F80 1080p HD Action Camera	GoPro Hero7 White	AKASO V50 Elite
Resolution	1080p at 60fps	1080p at 60fps	1080p at 60fps
Waterproof	30m with case	10m (no case needed)	30m with case
Battery Life	80-90 minutes	60-80 minutes	90-120 minutes
Stabilization	Basic EIS	Basic EIS	Advanced EIS
Price	$$$	$$$$	$$$

The F80 holds its own against the competition. It’s not as feature-rich as the GoPro, but it’s also significantly cheaper. Compared to the AKASO V50 Elite, it’s a toss-up—the AKASO has better stabilization, but the F80 has a more user-friendly interface and a slightly better build quality.

Who Should Buy the F80?

The F80 is ideal for:

• Budget-conscious buyers who want a reliable action camera without breaking the bank.
• Beginners who need something easy to use with minimal setup.
• Outdoor enthusiasts who plan to use it for hiking, swimming, or biking.
• Content creators who need a secondary camera for B-roll or backup footage.

It’s not the best choice for:

• 4K enthusiasts who need ultra-high resolution.
• Low-light shooters who plan to film in dark environments.
• Professional videographers who need advanced features like RAW video or manual controls.

Final Thoughts: Is the F80 Worth It?

After weeks of testing, I can say the F80 1080p HD action camera with 30m waterproof case is a solid performer for the price. It’s not perfect—low-light performance and battery life could be better—but it delivers where it matters most: video quality, ease of use, and durability. The included waterproof case is a huge plus, and the camera’s compact design makes it easy to take anywhere.

If you’re looking for an affordable action camera that can handle most everyday adventures, the F80 is a great choice. It won’t replace a high-end GoPro, but it doesn’t need to. It’s a reliable, no-frills option that gets the job done without emptying your wallet. And honestly, sometimes that’s exactly what you need.

So, should you buy it? If you’re on a budget and want a camera that can keep up with your active lifestyle, absolutely. Just remember to carry a spare battery and a high-speed microSD card—and maybe a small LED light for those low-light situations. Happy filming!

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the F80 1080p HD action camera stand out from other budget action cameras?

The F80 delivers crisp 1080p video and 12MP photos at an affordable price, while including a 30m waterproof case—a rare combo in its class. Its compact design and intuitive interface make it ideal for beginners and casual adventurers.

Is the 30m waterproof case sufficient for snorkeling or shallow diving?

Yes, the included 30m waterproof case allows safe use for snorkeling, swimming, and shallow dives up to 30 meters. However, avoid high-pressure water activities like scuba diving beyond its rated depth.

Does the F80 1080p HD action camera support external microphones?

No, the F80 lacks a microphone input, relying on its built-in mic for audio. For better sound quality, film outdoors in quiet environments or use post-production voiceovers.

How long does the battery last on the F80 action camera during 1080p recording?

The rechargeable 900mAh battery provides approximately 90 minutes of continuous 1080p/30fps recording. Carrying a spare battery is recommended for extended shoots.

Can I use the F80 camera without the waterproof case in rainy conditions?

While the camera body has basic splash resistance, it’s not fully waterproof. The 30m waterproof case is required for rain, snow, or water exposure to prevent damage.

What accessories are included with the F80 1080p HD action camera?

The package includes the 30m waterproof case, bicycle mount, helmet mount, USB cable, and user manual. Additional mounts are sold separately for versatility.