Review of the eken h9 action camera. Action camera Eken H9 - review of an action camera from China
Hi all!
Action cameras are all the rage right now! Convenience, compactness, immediate start of shooting interesting moments - this is truly impressive!
Such cameras are essentially similar to each other, they always come with a bunch of different types fasteners, for example for monopods (inexpensive monopod for action cameras).
So, I need an UltraHD (4K) camera in order to end up with a picture that is not much worse than cameras from GoPro. As a result, I bought this model from the Chinese company Eken - H9:
Arrived quickly, less than a month, packed in a branded box:
The main point is that when recording 4K, the frequency is 10 frames/sec, which, of course, is lower than that of GoPro 4th generation cameras. But the price, you see, is stunning - not 20-30 thousand, like GoPro, but about 2500-3000 rubles (bought in July 2016)!
Essentially for the record great video For playing on TVs with a diagonal of 1 m, the FullHD format is sufficient (this camera records it at a frequency of 60 frames/sec). For those looking for a model with a higher frame rate when recording 4K, here is my review of a more expensive action camera.
There are very big advantages compared to competitors- I wrote about GoPro above, but if you take the Chinese Xiaomi Yi of the first generation, then at a higher price, the sound there is often glitchy when recording, since their microphone is sometimes defective - it is muffled by a layer, and you have to disassemble and remove it (see reviews in Internet).
The equipment is initially quite rich: sealed box for underwater filming and in snowstorms, charging, mounts for helmets, monopods, bicycle handlebars (for those interested, here’s another review of an excellent bicycle model), etc. Here's what was in the box:
As you can see, everything is neatly packed, intact (if you’re lucky with the mail :)
This model has a screen, which is very convenient when shooting and viewing videos and photos. There are also a bunch of settings there. The camera size, as always, is small, standard for GoPro boxes, for example:
The components, of course, are also compatible with GoPro accessories, which is of course convenient.
The battery (900mAh) lasts for about an hour of recording. You can order a kit with a lower 1050 mAh battery.
For lovers of dry statistics, here are the characteristics from the manufacturer:
And I remind you that such cameras require SD cards from class 10 and faster, with high recording speed (for example, Samsung pro), with cards of a lower class you will get uneven video recording.
Happy shopping everyone!
If you liked the review - feel free to upvote!)
In this article we will discuss frequently asked questions about operation and functionality EKEN action cameras H9R. Go!
- Yours Eken camera original?
- What is the battery capacity of the Eken H9R?
The question that worries everyone: how long will one battery charge last for video shooting? The battery capacity is 1050 mAh. Real time work when recording in 4K quality on a single charge for 50-60 minutes. With lower quality, shooting time can increase to 1.5-2 hours.
By the way, for stable operation of the camera battery, it should first be completely discharged (if it was charged), and then put through several cycles (3-4) of full charging and discharging.
-Is the camera waterproof?
The camera comes with a waterproof aquabox, with which you can dive up to 30 meters. We personally tested the camera at a depth of about 15 meters.
Important! Before starting underwater shooting, make sure that the aquabox is sealed, because... The camera itself is afraid of water! Take care of your lens! Keep it clean! Fingerprints and other contaminants can significantly affect the quality of your footage.
-Which memory card should I use to use the camera?
The camera is compatible with MicroSD memory cards. For correct operation of the camera and the ability to record in UltraHD format, use speed class 10 cards (class 10), with data transfer speeds of 20 Mbit/sec. This information should be indicated either on the case of the memory card itself or on the packaging.
Many people don’t understand: “Why does the video in the Eken H9R camera slow down? Why can’t the desired shooting mode be selected in the Eken H9R camera?” - Stuttering when shooting, pixelation, blurry images and other problems are a consequence of using a memory card of an inappropriate speed class. The capacity of the memory card should not exceed 64 GB.
-How many hours of recording does a 16/32/64 GB memory card last?
For 16GB:
4K (25fps) and 2.7K (30fps) - approximately 35-40 minutes
1080P (60fps) - about 100 minutes
1080P (30fps) - about 150 minutes
720P (120fps) - about 100 minutes
For 32 GB:
4K (25fps) and 2.7K (30fps) - approximately 65-70 minutes
1080P (60fps) - about 195-200 minutes
1080P (30fps) - about 310-320 minutes
720P (120fps) - about 185-190 minutes
For 64 GB:
4K (25fps) and 2.7K (30fps) - approximately 135-140 minutes
1080P (60fps) - about 390-395 minutes
1080P (30fps) - about 610-620 minutes
720P (120fps) - about 370-380 minutes
Can the Eken H9R action camera remote be used underwater?
Remote controller remote control has protection from moisture and dust. Many people perceive this as protection against complete immersion under water, but this is not the case. Light contact with water is possible, but no more. The camera itself can operate underwater in a protective aquabox and can withstand dives up to 30 meters.
What is the resolution of the Eken H9R camera?
The camera in this series has 2.7K - real resolution. 4K - interpolation.
Interpolation is an increase in image resolution without loss of quality.
Eken H9R supports the following shooting modes:
720P(120fps)
1080P(30fps)
1080P(60fps)
2.7K (30fps)
4K (25fps)
How is the Eken H9R camera different from the Eken H9 camera?
Only the supplied equipment differs. The Eken H9R camera comes with an additional Bluetooth remote control, which the H9 does not have.
Can Eken H9R be used as a webcam?
You can, subject to the following steps:
Take out the memory card
Connect the camera to your computer via USB interface
For Mac: open Photobooth, connect the camera to the computer, select Eken H9R from the top list.
Can Eken H9R be used as a DVR?
Yes, the camera has a cyclic video recording mode specifically for such purposes. And you can also buy something convenient for your car in our online store.
Ez iCam application does not work. With what it can be connected?
This problem is common among users who have recently updated the iOS system on an iPhone, less often due to the fact that a failure occurred when trying to update the camera firmware on their own.
Solution: make sure you have it latest version Ez iCam firmware. Allow the program to access the data network, restart the camera and phone, delete the previous network connection and connect again. If this scheme does not help, reinstall the Ez iCam application.
For iOS users
Does the Eken camera have autofocus?
All Eken cameras are equipped with a fixed, wide-angle lens. The focal length is fixed and will not change. Therefore, there is no automatic focusing, like on most action cameras.
What to do if the camera freezes?
To reset the camera, remove the battery and memory card from the camera for 10-15 seconds, then insert the battery and hold it in for 10-20 seconds. The camera should turn on.
Why, when watching recorded videos on a computer, does the video play back jerkily and the sound lags behind the image?
Again, a question from the category “Why is the video slow?”
This problem is associated only with low computer power or the lack of required video codecs. To play Ultra-HD 4K video, you need a fairly powerful computer. Try using third-party programs such as VLC or PotPlayer - they do a great job with videos of this format using already built-in video codecs. Did not help? Try shooting material in 1080P 60FPS quality; according to reviews from our users, this is the most optimal resolution in terms of picture quality and speed. Did not help? So it's time to upgrade your hardware :)
Is it possible to put a more powerful battery in an Eken camera?
Yes, you can. But in this case, we provide a guarantee only for the battery purchased from us. If you plan to use any other battery that was not purchased from us, the camera warranty will not apply in this case.
Can I use Wi-Fi connection to the camera when it is underwater?
It is possible, but only with a very slight immersion.
Is it possible to stream and go live with the Eken H9R camera?
Yes, you can. For example, you can go live via Youtube or Facebook. To do this, download free application Ez iCam, the QR code of which can be found on the back of the camera box. Already installed? Brief instructions for you:
1. Turn on the camera
2. Click the button turn on Wi-Fi(Down button on the side of the camera)
3. Go to settings Wi-Fi networks and connect to the camera's network. The name will contain the marking "iCam-H9R".
4. After connecting, go to the Ez iCam program and click "Connect".
6. Select your desired location for live streaming - Facebook or Youtube. Register and...Camera, motor, let's start!
Video instruction:
What warranty does the Eken camera have in your store?
Our store gives an official guarantee of 12 months. This means that during this period you receive full support and free repairs, if necessary, from our service center, which always has all the necessary components and spare parts for your camera.
Dear friends, we have not managed to answer all the questions regarding the Eken H9R. The remaining questions will be posted in the second part. The link will be posted here. In the meantime, we are waiting for your questions, which you can leave in the comments.
Article prepared by:
Leading SpecialistIvan Romantsov
Contact me: Telegram: @iromantsov
Have a great day!
Hello, I offer a review of the fairly well-known and popular action camera Eken H9R. There are as many as 450 pages on this camera with a discussion of various hardware and software revisions with a description of various inconsistencies. It turns out that not all such cameras can record in 4K or take 120 frames per second. The sample under review can do all this.
The review contains detailed photos of both the camera and the entire arsenal of accessories, of which about 3 dozen are included, as well as testing of various modes, including “diving” to a depth of 3 meters.
For those interested, please...
Characteristics
Brand: EKEN
Model: H9
Type: Sports Camera
Chipset Name: Sunplus
Chipset: Sunplus 6630M
Special Function: Time and date display, HDMI, Microphone, HDMI output, Exposure control, Loop recording, Photograph
Material:Plastic
Storage
Max External Card Supported: TF 64G (not included)
Class Rating Requirements: Class 10 or Above
Display
Screen Size: 2.0inch
Screen Type: LCD
Power
Battery type: Removable
Capacity: 1050mAh
Charge Way: USB charge by PC, AC adapter
Working time: 1.5 hours (1080P at 30fps), 1 hour (1080P at 60fps), 40 minutes (4K at 10fps)
Primary Info.
Wide Angle: 170 degree wide angle
Image Sensor: OV4689
Camera Pixel: 4.0 megapixel
Video/Image/Audio
Decode Format: H.264
Video Format: MOV
Video Resolution: 720P (1280 x 720), 1080P (1920 x 1080), 4K (4096 x 2160), 2.7K (3264 x 2448), 2K (2560 x 1440) 30fps modes appeared in firmware/cameras starting from 16xxxx-xx 2.7k 25-30 frames, 4k - 15-25 frames, but all 720 modes are missing
Video System: PAL
Video Frame Rate: Video resolution: 4K at 10fps, 2.7K at 15fps, 1080p at 60 / 30fps, 720p at 120 / 60fps
Video Output: HDMI
Image Format: JPEG
Image Resolution: 12M (4032 x 3024), 2M (1920 x 1080), 5M (2592 x 1944), 8M (3264 x 2448)
Audio System: Built-in microphone/speaker (AAC)
Exposure Compensation: -1.7, 0, -2, +2, -0.3, -0.7, +1, -1, +1.3, +0.7, -1.3, +1.7, +0.3
White Balance Mode: Auto
Scene: Auto
Functions
WiFi: Yes
WiFi Function: Settings, Sync and Sharing Albums, Image Transmission, Remote Control
WiFi Distance: 20m
Waterproof: Yes
Waterproof Rating: 30m underwater
Loop-cycle Recording: Yes
Loop-cycle Recording Time: Off, 15min
HDMI Output: Yes
Time Stamp: Yes
Interface Type: Micro HDMI, TF card slot
Language: Korean, Italian, Spanish, Polski, Turkish, Simplified Chinese, German, Thai, English, Cesky, Russian, French, Dutch, Japanese, Portuguese
Other
Frequency: 60Hz, 50Hz, Auto
Dimension/Weight
Product Weight: 0.065 kg
Package Weight: 0.58 kg
Product Size (L x W x H): 6 x 3.2 x 4.1 cm / 2.36 x 1.26 x 1.61 inches
Package Size (L x W x H): 27 x 18 x 7 cm / 10.61 x 7.07 x 2.75 inches
Package Contents
Package Contents: 1 x Original EKEN H9 Action Camera, 1 x Waterproof Housing, 1 x Handlebar Pole Mount, 1 x Base Mount with Long Screw, 1 x J-Shaped Mount, 1 x Tripod Mount Adapter, 3 x Connector with Screw, 1 x Mount Adapter, 1 x Clip Case, 1 x Clip Mount, 2 x Helmet Mount, 4 x Bandage, 1 x Battery, 1 x Lens Cleaning Cloth, 4 x Tether, 1 x Metal Tether, 1 x Protective Backdoor, 1 x USB Cable, 1 x Power Adapter
Package and contents:
Everything is packed in a standard box for this camera.
Main gear close-up:
The instructions include detailed description how to use what:
Camera:
The camera itself is very small, 6 x 3.2 x 4.1 cm, and weighs only 65 grams. Among the controls, there is a button in front, which is used to turn on/off, as well as to change modes; a button on the top, which is a “release” button as well as a “confirm” button; and 2 buttons on the right side of the case - up and down. At the bottom there is a battery compartment, on the left side there are 2 slots (HDMI and USB) and a slot for a microSD card.
The kit also includes a “box” for underwater photography, which contains sealed pushers for all buttons: 
Camera and menu controls are quite well thought out and intuitive. I don’t see any point in listing a bunch of menu screens; for those interested, the menu will be described in detail in the video review at the end of the review.
Photo testing:
In the menu you can choose 4 different photo resolution options:12 MPixels (4608x2592)
8 MPixels (3760x2120)
5 MPixels (2976x1672)
4 MPixels (2648x1504)
To test these modes, I took 4 identical photos in different modes, and then zoomed in to make it “pixel by pixel”:
In my opinion, the photo quality is quite acceptable for an inexpensive action camera. Fast playback or Time-Lapse mode:
In this mode, the camera takes photos after a specified period of time from 2 to 60 seconds. The result is a series of photographs. The camera cannot immediately record video in this mode. To convert these photos into a video, you can use, for example, VirtualDub. I used Sony Vegas. It’s quite simple to do, I don’t think it’s worth dwelling on.So to test this mode, I set the maximum time between shots to 60 seconds and shot the sky. As a result, we managed to fit 6 hours into 11 seconds at 30 frames per second. Let me make a reservation right away that it was almost completely calm and the movement of the clouds was not visible to the eye.
The only inconvenience: the built-in battery lasts for about an hour and a half, so I had to power the camera from an external power bank.
Testing video modes:
The following video modes are indicated for this camera: 4K at 10fps, 2.7K at 15fps, 1080p at 60 / 30fps, 720p at 120 / 60fpsThere is also the following note: in firmware/cameras starting from 16xxxx-xx, 2.7k 25-30 frames, 4k - 15-25 frames modes appeared, but all 720 modes are missing
The reviewed sample also has 4K at 25 frames and 720 at 120 frames, and of course everything in between.
Testing the sealed “box”:
The “boxing” was tested by “dipping” the camera into the waters of the Black Sea. The camera in the “box” has a slight negative buoyancy, in other words, the camera goes to the bottom. Therefore, I had to make some kind of float from a plastic can. In the hope of “catching” the biting process, a shrimp was “screwed” to the camera, but unfortunately in winter there were no fish near the shore. The only thing we managed to film was a jellyfish at the 7th minute. The duration of the video is quite long, this is to show that the testing was not carried out by a short-term “wet”, but fully.Feeding pigeons and cats:
Nothing has been tested here, we’re just enjoying wild pigeons and stray cats (the video is also long)Video review:
In addition to the information already presented, the video review includes a description of the camera menu, as well as how the camera works together with a smartphone via WiFi.Result:
Although this camera is a fairly well-known and studied sample, the hardware and software The tested specimen contains the best combination of parameters among its peers, I already wrote about this above. The camera can record video in 4K at 25 frames and 720 at 120 frames (the parameters are real, I checked frame by frame at SonyVegas), and of course everything in between, which is quite unique based on the information on w3bsit3-dns.com I liked the review +26 +39An action camera capable of shooting 4K video that costs just $60 is, of course, very cool. Provided that this is not some banal marketing ploy... Today we have just such a device on review - Eken H9. The company name is not mentioned either on the box or on the camera itself, but the inscriptions “Action Camera” and “4K Ultra HD” are proudly displayed. What is interesting about this particular device and is it worth considering buying it at all? Now we will talk about all this.
Video review of Eken H9
Appearance
It is clear that in appearance it is a copy of GoPro, but it’s time to get used to the fact that all Chinese action cameras look exactly like this. I think this is more of a plus than a minus. It looks cool, but everything else is trifles. The edges here are ribbed, which means that the device itself will not slip out of your hands if you use it without a case. The power button is on the front and the shutter key is on the top. Near them there is also an indicator: one indicates activity, and the second shows the charging process when the camera is connected to power.
On the right are navigation keys, and on the left are all sorts of connectors – a microUSB port, a microHDMI output, and a slot for microSD memory cards. The microphone and speaker in the camera are also located on the side faces.
The equipment deserves special attention. For $60, the set of accessories that come in the box is amazing! There is a case, an additional back cover (but be careful, the camera cannot be submerged with it), various fasteners, clothespins, holders, Velcro, and even a special napkin.
By the way, the napkin included in the kit is not in vain. Fingerprints on the case are collected very easily, unfortunately. There are two ways to solve this issue: constantly wipe the camera with something (even your T-shirt) or take a version in a brighter color (we have the black one in the review, but the manufacturer has 5-6 more color options). As for water protection, the Eken H9 in the included case can be submerged to a depth of up to 30 meters. There should not be any harmful consequences. In general, there are no complaints about the assembly. The only thing that confuses me is the cover under which the battery is located - it bends a little. But I don't think this is too critical.
Camera Features
It uses a 4-megapixel OmniVision matrix, and the viewing angle is 170 degrees. All shooting information is displayed on the 2-inch display on the rear. But that's all...
The main thing is the shooting modes. Why did I say it's almost 4K? The thing is that the camera can shoot in 4K, but it does it at 10 frames per second. In 2K, the Eken H9 can also record video, but, again, at 15 frames per second. But there are no problems with classic Full HD - you can shoot at 30 and 60 frames. There is also HD. Here we have 120 and 60 frames per second at our disposal. Is this 4K a marketing move? Yes, definitely. But the camera can still shoot in Full HD and, given the price tag, this is still a good solution.
In the camera settings, you can select exposure, date display, resolution when taking photos, activate continuous shooting and see other small nuances. For example, the firmware version. There is also an application for smartphones (you can download it using the QR code on the box, or here is a link for Android). There is nothing “extra” in the program: the image from the viewfinder is shown here, you can start shooting, take photos, view the gallery and adjust some parameters.
In general, you need to know two things about the application (or rather, there are two nuances here). The application itself is universal and is suitable for all cameras of the manufacturer, but since not all solutions support 4K shooting, the maximum extension that can be set through the program is 1080p. And secondly, in the application settings you can adjust the white balance (you cannot adjust it through the camera itself). And that's bad because auto mode Initially it is a little blue, you need to choose a different parameter based on the lighting.
Video examples:
Considering the cost, there are no questions about the quality of shooting. In good lighting we have a completely adequate picture. You just need to set the white balance correctly through the app. Perhaps in some cases there is still not enough detail, but overall everything is quite good. Of course, noise is already appearing in the room, but this cannot be avoided. You'll have to come to terms with some nuances. But I repeat: for the money, the shooting quality is normal.
Autonomy
If you shoot in Full HD at 30 frames per second and with Wi-Fi turned on, the camera will work on a single charge for about an hour and a half. If you shoot in 4K or Full HD, but at 60 frames per second, the device will last a little less - 40-45 minutes. It’s not entirely clear about the capacity: the battery itself says 900 mAh, although on the manufacturer’s website and the box itself we're talking about about 1050 mAh.
Eventually
It is clear that the presence of 4K in this camera is a marketing ploy and nothing more. 10 frames per second is just ridiculous. But I wouldn't say the camera is bad. The fact is that for $60 you get an action camera that shoots in Full HD at 60 frames per second. Plus, don’t forget about the rather generous kit, which is enough for most tasks. That is, you won’t have to buy anything separately. In terms of picture quality, the Eken H9 is not a GoPro; there are some minor nuances (for example, with the white balance), but in good lighting the image turns out normal. Especially if you adjust for the price. If you are looking for an affordable action camera, then this option can also be considered for purchase.
You can order such a camera!!!
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Even 30-40 years ago, the first enthusiasts tried to create the first prototype of an action camera, but none of them went as far as Nicholas Woodman, the creator of GoPro action cameras. GoPro's Hero series cameras have become so relevant and timely that they have spawned a whole galaxy of followers. Sales of GoPro cameras have grown rapidly and Chinese companies like Xiaomi, EKEN and SJCAM did not miss the opportunity to occupy their niche.
Chinese companies did not miss their opportunity and proudly presented their devices as a GoPro killer, one of such cameras is the EKEN H9 4K at a cost of up to $100 and excellent technical specifications this camera will not kill GoPro, but it will be able to reach its audience.
An action camera that allows you to shoot video in 4K format and, at the same time, has a price tag of $60 is an almost incredible success. But more often than not, such loud statements are just marketing ploys. What exactly is EKEN H9?
Equipment EKEN H9 Ultra HD 4K
The EKEN H9 Ultra HD 4K review should start with the configuration, because for such a price it is really very extensive. Along with the camera, the user receives an aquabox, an optics cloth, a spare back panel, as well as various clips, Velcro and fastenings for various types shooting.
Please note that the spare cap is not designed to be submersible in water!
Appearance eken h9 4K
to his appearance EKEN H9 is reminiscent of the market-leading GoPro - the majority of action cameras are produced in this format. Ribbed side edges provide a secure grip.
On the front panel there is a power button for the device, and on the top edge there is a shutter button. A pair of indicators notifies you of camera activity, as well as the charging process.
On the right side there are control keys, and on the left there are microHDMI, microUSB connectors and a slot for a microSD card. The speaker and microphone of the EKEN H9 are also located on the side edges.
The entire back of the device is occupied by a 2” diagonal display.
Features of the eken h9 action camera
EKEN H9 is equipped with a 4 MP OmniVision sensor, which captures frames with a 170˚ view. All data about the shooting process is displayed on the screen.
The camera has several shooting modes. In 4K mode, the device shoots video at 10 fps. It’s difficult to call it full-fledged 4K shooting. But the traditional FullHD camera shoots without problems. Shooting can be done at 30 or 60 fps. In HD format the maximum frame rate is 120.
Camera settings allow you to adjust the exposure, display the date in the frame, change the photo resolution, start continuous shooting mode, etc.
There is a special proprietary application to control the camera from an Android smartphone.
Shooting quality EKEN H9
Considering the cost of the EKEN H9, it is quite difficult to make any complaints about video quality. When shooting in good lighting, the camera produces a very decent picture. It does not distort colors, the picture does not turn out to be too contrasty. Of course, excessive sharpening catches the eye - the device is trying to achieve greater video clarity using software filters.
Before you start recording, it’s best to make white balance adjustments using an app on your smartphone so that the video doesn’t turn blue or yellow.
When shooting indoors, noise quite naturally begins to appear in the video. It is simply impossible to demand more from a camera with such a price tag.
EKEN H9 battery life
The manufacturer's website states that the battery has a capacity of 1050 mAh. In fact, a 900 mAh battery is hidden under the back cover of the action camera.
With FullHD shooting at 30 fps and a working Wi-Fi module, the camera can work for about 90 minutes. When working in FullHD/60 fps or 4K mode, the battery life on a single charge will be reduced to 40 minutes.
Conclusion
Of course, EKEN H9 cannot be called a full-fledged 4K action camera - the information provided by the manufacturer is nothing more than marketing ploy. This solution is well suited for beginners who, for a tiny amount, can get a device for their first attempts at recording video with normal quality, as well as a large set of accessories that will help diversify their shooting.
Advantages of the EKEN H9 action camera:
- budget price segment;
- Extensive set of fastenings;
- 2-inch display;
- Possibility of shooting in FullHD mode at 60 fps;
- Decent photo and video quality for its price category.
Disadvantages of EKEN H9:
- Short battery life;
- The ability to shoot in 4K format only “on paper”.
Although the manufacturer has implemented an application for controlling the device from a smartphone, it does not provide full control over the device. Over the course of several weeks of testing the camera, a large number of minor flaws in the operation of the standard software surface.
But all this can be explained if we take into account the cost - in its price segment, the EKEN H9 occupies a very worthy place among cheap action cameras.
