Good day! Today I have prepared a review of the SJCAM SJ4000 camera. At first glance, this camera resembles many GoPro cameras and should, it seems, work like all cameras in this family. Moreover, many cameras in the Active line differ little in design from GoPro. Let's take a closer look at this camera.
Video resolution: 1920x1080 30fps / 1280x720 60fps / 848x480 60fps / 640x480 60fps
Video compression format: H.264
Video format: MOV
Loop recording: Yes
Motion sensor: Yes
Microphone: Yes
Photo resolution: 12 MP (4032x3024) / 8M / 5M
Photo format: JPG
Photo modes: Single frame / delayed shooting (2s / 5s / 10s) / continuous shooting
Battery life: 60-70 minutes (when shooting in 1080P Full HD mode)
Battery capacity: 900 mAh
Power: 5V
Charging time: 3 hours
Memory: micro SD or micro SDHC card, up to 32 GB
Sensor: CMOS Sensor Aptina0330
Processor: Novatek NT96650
LCD display: 1.5" LCD screen, Resolution 960x240px 4:3 (allows you to take photos and videos and view the footage)
Lens: 170°A+ HD wide angle, 6G
Zoom: Digital 4X
Wi-Fi: no
Firmware language: English / German / French / Spanish / Italian /Portuguese / Chinese Traditional / Chinese Simplified / Japanese / Russian
Outputs: HDMI C (Mini), micro USB
Dimensions: 29.8x59.2x41 mm
Weight: 41 g (without battery), 58 g (with battery)
The camera comes in a large colorful box. On back side listed specifications.
On the right side of the box there is a sticker with an originality verification code. 
In addition to the camera itself, the package includes a bunch of different mounts. 
Waterproof box
Back cover for waterproof box with slots on the sides
Rotating frame/frame for using the camera without a housing
Bicycle handlebar mount
Bike helmet mount + soft padding
3 link adapters
2 tripod mounts
Belt clip
Mounting area
2 double-sided 3M Velcro strips
Metal clamp
4 plastic clamps
2 fabric clips
2 Velcro
USB Charger 5V 1A
micro USB cable for connecting to a computer
Cloth for wiping the screen
User manual 
Using these mounts, the camera can be attached to a belt, helmet, or bicycle handlebar. 
I would like to note that the SJ 4000 can be used as a car DVR; to do this, you first need to turn on the auto mode. The viewing angle is quite enough to capture almost everything that happens on the road. And of course, buy this glass mount with a power adapter. 
SJ 4000 is available in a wide range color scheme, there are currently seven camera body colors available. 
The design of the SJ4000 case is strictly rectangular in shape, measuring 29x59x41 mm. 
This body houses a camera with a viewing angle of 170 degrees. It is capable of recording data in MOV H. 264 format. The ability to record 1080P was a particularly valuable feature for me.
On the front of the device there is a wide-angle lens (viewing angle 170 degrees). There is also an on/off button here, which is also responsible for changing modes. 
On the top edge of the camera there is an “Ok” button and an LED that begins to blink during recording. 
On the left side of the device there are 3 connectors: micro HDMI/SD/USB, as well as microphone holes. 
On the left side of the camera there is a speaker and two buttons: down/up. 
On the bottom edge there is a compartment for the battery and the battery itself. 
On the back of the device there is a 1.5-inch screen and two LEDs, one of which is responsible for the camera, the second for charging. As for the display, it is quite good. Everything is readable, but it fades when exposed to direct sunlight. 
The protective box looks very durable, the lid closes tightly. I spent 10 minutes in the bathtub with water. I didn't find any moisture inside.
According to the manufacturers, the waterproof box can withstand up to 30 meters of water. 
This is what the camera looks like when placed in a waterproof box. 
The battery supplied with the camera is 900 mAh.
Allows you to shoot video in 1080p for about 1.5 hours with the screen off and about an hour with it on. 
For easy removal, the battery has a special strap. 
The camera menu is multilingual. Russian language is available. The translation is quite good.
PHOTO MENU
The camera shoots with a resolution from 640x480 to 1080HD 1920*1080 at 30 fps. Photos are taken in 12 megapixel resolution. But, due to the lack of flash, more or less normal shots will only be obtained in good daylight. And the camera’s viewing angle of 170 degrees makes photos slightly rounded and can recognize faces and smiles.
Photos taken by SJCAM SJ 4000
4x zoom of course greatly spoils the quality of both photos and videos.
Video
Unboxing
What are the advantages of the SJ4000 camera?
+ Underwater photography.
+ Excellent quality.
+ Motion sensor.
+ Position sensor G-sensor.
+ Starts video recording when connected to power.
+ HDMI output for connecting to a TV and watching videos.
+ Webcam mode when connected to a computer.
+ Car DVR mode
The disadvantages include the lack of mounting on car glass, weak microphone, lack of 60 frames per second.
SJCAM SJ4000 ‒ perfect solution for those who want to experience the beauty of action cameras, but are not ready to shell out a hefty sum.
Thank you for your attention!
Enjoy the shopping!
Lots of fastenings. It works more or less stable. Normal picture in the video. Not very expensive.
Minuses
1). Doesn't hold up in the cold (I'm talking about -10 to -25 degrees). If you turn it on indoors and go outside, you can shoot for a while (perhaps the camera itself heats up during operation), but if you try to turn it on after spending time in the cold, it immediately turns off, indicating that the battery is low. If you go into a warm place, the same battery, without recharging, again shows that there is still a charge (up to almost full). 2). It's a little buggy (not critical) when connecting to a PC via wire. It is expressed in the fact that it loses contact with the PC and the PC stops seeing the camera.
Review
* I have been actively using it for about half a year. * I almost never take photos with it. The video shoots fine, for my taste. * Great option if you're willing to put up with bad work in the cold and you need something not very expensive. * I like that the screen is small, you can set the display to turn off quickly after the video starts, and then the camera doesn’t light up for long and is not so noticeable. I also covered the LEDs with electrical tape. I myself want to buy a more serious camera (we know what brand), I expect that it will work stably in the cold, I also heard that it has voice control and moisture resistance of the camera itself (this one seems to only have an acbavox, but I use it without it , I’ll also note that I was with it in light rain (without an aquabox), everything was fine). Thank you for attention. With God blessing.
Rating 5
Advantages: -price
-quality (I’ve owned it for 2 years - not a single glitch)
-20 meters under water - it goes calmly
-there is a slight positive buoyancy in the aquabox
-aquabox - you can hammer nails, where did it fall from?
-many accessories
Disadvantages: -after removing the battery, all settings, date
-menu could be more convenient
-we don’t shoot in the dark and twilight
-it’s better not to use zoom
-hard buttons (needs force when pressing)
Comment: I’ve been using the camera for a very long time (I’ve never updated the firmware), before that I had a GoPro3 (drowned), the SJCAM’s picture is brighter, juicier, a little (just a little bit) blue. Considering the price, I like this camera better, especially since there are a ton of accessories at once. Gouprobnye are also suitable (except for boxing). When shooting in sunny weather there is no difference with gopro. The battery holds the same. To work in Premiere, you need to install the utility, because by default it does not see files from the camera (but it does see files from GoPro).
SJCAM went under a truck on the highway and bought an SJCAM M20. Upset. Apart from the remote control, it has no advantages compared to the SJCAM 4000wi-fi, and costs three times more =(
December 3, 2016, Moscow and Moscow region \Using experience: more than a year
Score 4
Pros: Decent image quality, plenty of mounts for every taste, good waterproof case. Convenient program on Android, the screen is clear.
Disadvantages: The image is always blue. GoPro still has better image quality. The microphone is weak, the sound is recorded quietly, in the case you can’t hear anything at all.
Comment: Here is an example of a video of how we rafted in Altai, it was real action
https://youtu.be/4CVIpq3ay6g
For the money - this is it!
Rating 5
Pros: For a compact camera, this is an excellent gadget. The video shoots quite well. if you need to edit it later, then the 720p60fps mode is perfect for this. In small areas, you can watch the waffle online on a laptop
Disadvantages: For such a baby, only the battery is weak
Comment: I additionally use a portable 5000 mA USB source for power.
And when choosing this camera remember:
1 takes good photographs - a camera (it’s made for this),
2 the video camera takes good video (it’s made for this purpose),
3 For every situation - the right gadget!
An action camera is needed for shooting in fast motion and you don’t have to wait for miracles. For miracles there is software products image and video processing and direct hands.
Natalya V. January 26, 2016, Vladikavkaz \Using experience: several months
Rating 5
Advantages: Delivery set, weight, versatility.
Disadvantages: battery)
Comment: Used for filming with a quadcopter.
The camera exceeded all my expectations! Everything is just great! There is a whole set of cameras in the arsenal - both xaomi and go pro (3 all versions and 4) I can’t compare with go pro 4) But with a three-ruble note it can be completely compared. I liked the Chinese better. xaomi is also an extremely successful camera, and its photo quality is better than Sjcam. I think Sjcam good choice and this is an extremely strong bid to overthrow go pro from its pedestal.
The picture is warm and homely, the colors of the video are very easy to correct. Updates are released regularly. Can be used as a video recorder in a car)
In general, shoot more action, and don’t measure yourself by pixels!
Sasha S. July 18, 2015, Moscow and Moscow region
Rating 5
Advantages: Build quality, shooting, cost, equipment
Disadvantages: battery, sound
Comment: The model is simply excellent!!! Exceeded all imaginable expectations! The quality of plastic and assembly is simply excellent! No squeaks, no backlashes - nothing like that! You can consider it not just an analogue of Go Pro, but as a worthy replacement, while saving a lot of money! I use it for paragliding. I was pleased with the standard set - fasteners, adapters, an additional back cover with acoustic holes. The optics did not disappoint - wide-angle, real angle of 170 degrees. By the way, 1 in 1 accessories come from Go Pro. Equipped with a monitor on the back of the case. Russified. A simple, convenient menu - you can do without a manual. Shoots video in certain conditions - really, better than Go Pro - tested! And there are a lot of comparative videos on YouTube - watch and rate!
Maxim M. July 10, 2015, Makhachkala \Using experience: less than a month
Rating 5
Pros: Excellent video and normal photo
Disadvantages: I can’t connect via wi-fi to iPhone 6 (((
Comment: I studied all the models for a long time budget cameras of such a type. You basically need a camera, maybe swim and take pictures a couple of times a year undersea world, well, plus a parachute jump....I looked at a million tests and comparisons. I made up my mind. When I went home, I was very afraid that I would open it and be disappointed. But, what a delight)) The camera for such a price exceeded all my expectations, it records excellent video, it was recorded in both sunny and cloudy weather. I like the sharpness, settings, color reproduction, everything. Believe me, for home video this is through the roof, my iPhone 6 is my favorite and even worse)) I compared it with my friend’s go-to, she likes my camera even more now!
The photo is like from an ordinary good phone. Processed this way they generally turn out great.
Shots perfectly in water. I filmed it in an aquarium for testing, amazing))
The waterproof box is made flawlessly. There are so many accessories in the kit that I am completely delighted again and again. All at once for one amount.
In general, I honestly recommend this camera for ordinary family leisure, you can ride a bike, go paragliding and take pictures of fish underwater in Egypt. And for other needs there are better cameras at home. This model is simply superb.
Zhanna R. May 17, 2015, Moscow and Moscow region \Using experience: less than a month
Rating 5
Advantages: 1. Price, of course.
2. Appearance (mine is white).
3. Good video quality.
4. Rich equipment.
5. WiFi module and control from a smartphone.
6. Possibility of use as a DVR and webcam.
Disadvantages: 1. Sound recording quality. The microphone is quite weak.
2. Takes photos about as well as an average phone.
3. 720p and 60 FPS are lies and profanity. Use 30 FPS and 1080p.
3. The transparent plug on the Wi-Fi LED fell out and was lost on the first day :(
Comment: I've been playing with it for about a week. Overall impressions are very positive! Below are some of my impressions:
1. At this price there are simply no competitors! And this despite the fact that in our stores it is sold for 2-3 thousand rubles more than at one large online auction (I bought it there for 4,600 rubles).
2. When purchasing, be careful and do not buy a fake. It's easy to distinguish - the original has the SJCAM logo and light-colored screws around the camera eye of the transparent body.
3. I recommend immediately purchasing a couple of spare batteries with an AC charger and a monopod.
4. The charge lasts for about 2 hours of video recording, which is ok.
5. Strange photo settings. It is possible to set a timer that will take photos every 3 seconds, for example. I did not find the ability to take one photo 3 seconds after pressing the button. Of course, you can always take a photo through an application on your phone, but this is not always convenient.
6. Speaking of the application (I have Android) - it certainly works, but it looks poor.
7. Recognizes memory cards up to 32 GB only.
8. Fully compatible with GoPro mounts and most accessories.
The bottom line is it's a thing! There are a lot of comparisons with GoPro on the Internet, and in some places this camera is better, in others it is worse. Considering that GoPro costs 4 times more,
doubts about the choice disappear by themselves (unless, of course, you want to overpay for the brand).
I'm happy with the purchase and recommend it to you too!
Alexander B. April 28, 2015, Belgorod \Using experience: less than a month
Rating 5
Advantages: ✔︎ Price/quality ratio
✔︎ Picture
✔︎ A huge number of mounts included and generally compatible with GoPro
✔︎ Good build quality (the plastic is very pleasant to the touch, there are no gaps or backlashes)
✔︎ Bright and cheerful body colors :)))
Disadvantages: ✗ So-so photo quality (of course there are no 12 Mrx)
✗ The buttons on the aquabox are a bit stiff (change settings only without it!)
✗ No remote control (I don’t care about this, but for some it is important)
✗ Side buttons are weak
Action cameras SJ4000 from the Chinese brand SJCAM took a leading position in their segment within a matter of days after the start of sales. Despite the very affordable price tag, the gadget’s capabilities are much more extensive than those of most more expensive devices venerable companies.
So, the subject of today's review is the SJCAM SJ4000 action camera. User reviews, characteristics, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of the device will be discussed in this article.
The gadget arrived on store shelves in two modifications - with and without a Wi-Fi module. The models do not have any technical differences, with the exception of the mentioned module, so we will consider a more complete option, that is, the SJ4000 Wi-Fi action camera.
Contents of delivery
The gadget comes in a nice white box made of medium-weight cardboard with red and black lines around the perimeter. Behind the packaging are the most notable characteristics of the gadget and awards at some exhibitions.
Completeness:
- the SJCAM SJ4000 WiFi action camera itself;
- case with water protection;
- frame/frame for use without a case;
- bicycle rack;
- helmet mount;
- 3 intermediate adapters;
- 2 tripod brackets;
- base for installing fasteners;
- belt clip;
- double-sided adhesive tape;
- mains charger;
- mini USB cable;
- camera cleaning cloth;
- manual.
The package can be called more than complete. Moreover, this entire impressive set can be used not only for the SJ4000 action camera, but also with similar models from competing brands like Sony or GoPro.
By combining all these brackets and parts, the user can easily adjust the operation of the device specifically to his needs and requirements: bicycle, car, helmet, belt, that is, you have at your disposal almost universal mounting of the device.
Additional accessories
But even if this turns out to be not enough, then on the brand’s shelves you can always find some optional equipment like an HDMI cable, a car charger, different belts, specific brackets and more. But even without these accessories, you will still have an extremely versatile action camera in your hands - the SJ4000.
User reviews on this matter are clear: the owners were pleasantly surprised that for such a modest price, the gadget comes with a lot of useful and high-quality devices for use in almost any area.
Appearance
The camera design is completely copied from the popular GoPro brand. The SJCAM company decided not to reinvent the wheel and simply made a cheaper analogue of the venerable model. But this is for the better, because GoPro gadgets have always been distinguished by good ergonomics, which means that the SJ4000 WiFi action camera is also burdened with this.
Despite the seemingly average dimensions for this type of device (59x41x30 mm) and weight of 58 grams, the camera looks very compact and is practically not felt in your hands. When you hold it in the palm of your hand, you can’t even believe that such a baby is capable of shooting video and at the same time calmly surviving some small cataclysm.
As for color options, the SJ4000 action cameras are available in seven varieties. There are both strict and classic colors and more “fun” ones. Users received it very warmly in their reviews appearance gadget and the range offered, and no complaints about the design or ergonomics were noted.
Video
The SJ4000 action cameras do not have the capabilities of digital SLR cameras or video cameras, but for its price the gadget shoots more than acceptable video. Judging by the reviews of the owners, the quality of the output picture suits more than half of the users, as well as the capabilities of the device.
The lens (f=2.99mm F=2.8) with a smart matrix and wide-angle aperture allows you to cover a large area. The SJ4000 (Full HD) action camera is capable of shooting in various modes and formats, and with high accuracy.
Quality to FPS (frames per second):
- WVGA - 60 FPS;
- 720p - 30/60 FPS;
- 1080p - 30 FPS.
Separately, it is worth noting the fact that the gadget does not support a frame rate of 60 frames, and the figure stated in the specification and field tests have shown that the mentioned indicator is only duplicated, that is, 30+30 FPS. If you need a camera that can work at real 60 frames per second, then it is better to pay attention to the company's older brother SJ5000 or to the model from Xiaomi Yi series.
For most users, judging by the reviews, 30 FPS is enough, especially since many know that the same Hollywood masterpieces were recorded at a frequency of 24 frames/second, and video sequences posted on YouTube are mostly recorded at 30 frames. It makes sense to consider a higher indicator if you are shooting a documentary or some kind of specifically professional video.
Photo
Hybrid devices, that is, gadgets that combine both photo and video capabilities, have never been distinguished by the quality of the output picture. The device must either take photos or shoot video. Of course, you can find similar devices that cope with both tasks equally well, but such devices are very, very expensive.
Today's extreme sports enthusiasts prefer video content to photographs, but if you want high-quality photographic materials from a camera, then it is better to pay attention to SLR or even regular digital cameras, and the SJCAM SJ4000 action camera is a bad assistant in this matter.
Yes, there are many useful functions and modes like sepia, darkening, retouching, balance adjustment and other things, but all the pictures taken by the gadget can be called good, but not good, much less ideal.
Matrix features
One of the main disappointments that can be seen in user reviews is the photo resolution. The specification clearly states that the matrix is designed for 12 megapixels, but in reality this is not the case.
Camera resolution (manufacturer's data):
- 1.2 MP - 1280x720 px;
- 2 MP - 1920x1080 px;
- 5 MP - 2560x1920 px;
- 12 MP - 4000x3000 px.
The actual output picture is noticeably different from the declared one. For example, a photo taken at 12 megapixels looks no better than a 5 megapixel photo. And upon closer examination, blurring and blurring are visible, that is, there is no talk of a clear picture. As for the overall image quality, the SJCAM SJ4000 action camera is comparable to some middle-class smartphone like an inexpensive Sony or Samsung.
Despite the obvious shortcomings, users speak quite well about the photographic capabilities of the gadget. In addition, the small dimensions of the device allow you to take it on any trip. With this camera you won't look like a tourist, and with proper lighting you can take quite decent pictures.
Versatility
Despite its modest size, the device has enviable versatility. And if you accidentally stumbled upon a gadget while looking for a DVR, then you shouldn’t be surprised.
Additional device features:
- videcam;
- webcam (Skype, etc.);
- Car DVR.
Versatility does not in any way prevent the device from performing its direct tasks, so multifunctionality has become a pleasant bonus for many users. As for the last two points, everything is clear here, but we can talk about the first in more detail.
Video surveillance mode
Naturally, the gadget is not as good as professional security cameras for protecting your property, but the additional functionality is surprisingly well designed. After activating the “Home Security” mode, the device automatically turns on as soon as it detects movement in a given area.
The function can be useful not only at home, but also during photo hunting, when you record running/flying animals, as well as in other everyday situations.
Many users in their reviews appreciated the versatility of the gadget. The model is ideal as a webcam: good resolution, responsive interface, seamless synergy with the Windows 7, 8 and 10 series environment, as well as competent adaptation to the iOS platform. Most owners did not have any problems with drivers, and if there were none in the system, they were quickly downloaded through the assistant wizard for installing new equipment. The same can be said about the functionality of a car recorder - plug it in and go.
Autonomy
The camera is equipped with a 900 mAh lithium-ion battery. The M10 and SJ5000 models are equipped with the same element. If you record video in 1080p at 30 frames per second, the battery will last for about 100 minutes of continuous shooting, which is quite acceptable for this type of device.
Action cameras are usually used outdoors, where access to the usual 220V network is very limited, so it would be a good idea to get an additional set of batteries so as not to lose important shots.
The element can be recharged in three ways: through a personal computer, from a regular network and through the cigarette lighter in a car. The fastest method is the usual network, but as for car recharging, you will have to purchase the appropriate adapter separately.
Summarizing
The SJ4000 action camera from SJCAM is the best option among similar gadgets in its segment (less than $100). Here we have a very high-quality video sequence that is close to ideal, many additional functions and versatility, a large selection of colors, a pleasant (albeit slick) design with good ergonomics, as well as compact dimensions and light weight.
As for protection, the gadget did not disappoint here either, having received excellent shock resistance and water resistance up to 30 m depth. In addition, the device comes with a lot of useful and really necessary accessories. Even if such a set turns out to be not enough, you can always buy the necessary surroundings on the brand’s shelves, and at a more than affordable price.
Of course, the gadget has problems, but looking at the cost, one simply cannot dare to call them critical: not very convenient menu and navigation in general, mediocre video quality, modest output sound and a huge number of fakes. The last point can hardly be called a minus specifically for the camera, but domestic market literally flooded with all kinds of counterfeits and even counterfeits of fakes, so sometimes you have to conduct a kind of mini-investigation in order to purchase an original device.
- 1. Main technical characteristics
- 2. Packaging and accessories
- 3. Appearance
- 4. Ergonomics
- 5. Screen
- 6. Interface
- 7. Test results
- 8. Where can I buy it?
- 9. Conclusion
GoPro action cameras are the de facto benchmark in extreme video shooting. Many manufacturers, including Chinese ones, rely on the company's products.
Cheap analogue SJCAM SJ4000 offers similar functions at a significantly lower cost. This miniature device is capable of filming underwater and can be used as a video recorder or webcam. In this article we will try to carry out detailed review SJCAM SJ4000 and determine all the advantages and disadvantages of this gadget.
Main technical characteristics
- Camera module: 12 MP CMOS Aptina AR0330, wide angle lens;
- Video recording: 1080p up to 30 fps, 720p up to 60 fps, WVGA up to 60 fps;
- Codecs: H.264;
- Photography: up to 12MP;
- Storage memory: MicroSD (up to 32 GB);
- Wireless interfaces: Wi-Fi;
- Battery: 900 mAh;
- Dimensions: 29.8×59.2×41 mm;
- Weight: 58 grams.
Packaging and accessories
SJCAM SJ4000 is packaged in cardboard box with a plastic transparent window through which you can see the camera itself.
In addition to the device, the package includes a waterproof box, mounts for a bicycle, a bicycle helmet and a tripod, a belt clip, clamps, Velcro, connecting adapters, a rotating frame, a charging unit, a microUSB cable, a cloth and documentation.
Appearance
The desire to copy GoPro was completely reflected in the design. At first glance, it is quite possible to confuse the camera with products from a famous brand. There are 7 body colors available to choose from.
Externally, the SJ4000 looks very compact. To prevent the camera from slipping out of your hands, the material on the side ends, top and bottom is covered with a fine diamond-shaped mesh. On the front panel there is a wide-angle lens that protrudes slightly above the surface of the body. To the left of it is the camera activation button, just below is the SJ4000 logo.
At the top is the “OK” button. In the model with Wi-Fi, there is also an LED indicator indicating the activity of the module.
On the right side there is a small recess with connectors for wired interfaces - microSD, microHDMI and microUSB. A little higher there is a small perforation for the microphone.
Two buttons are built into the left side, with which you can control the camera interface or zoom the image on the screen.
At the bottom there is a compartment for the battery.
On the rear panel there is a 1.5-inch display with a resolution of 960x240 pixels. Next to it are two LEDs to indicate camera activity and charging.
Ergonomics
The included waterproof box provides full protection for the camera when submerged to a depth of 30 meters. However, sound recording in the case is slightly degraded due to the microphone being blocked. Never remove protection in a damp environment! The SJ4000 has no moisture protection at all.
The plastic case protects the device body well from falls. At the same time, it makes the shooting process a little more difficult, since you have to use force to press the buttons.
Thanks to the corrugated coating on the ends, the SJ4000 fits perfectly in the hand without trying to slip out. The relatively light weight of the device (only 58 grams with battery) allows you to use the camera with a drone of any level of carrying capacity.
Screen
The 1.5-inch display has a resolution of 960x240 pixels, it is protected by thin and very fragile-looking glass. The screen allows you to quickly review your footage, capture the right angle, or change video recording settings while you work.
The SJ4000 screen does not have an impressive reserve of brightness. In the sun it is almost impossible to distinguish small details; you have to constantly cover the back panel with your hand. There is a power saving mode that turns off the display after several minutes of inactivity.
For ease of shooting, the camera has an auto-rotate screen function. When turned head down, the image on the display automatically rotates 180 degrees.
Interface
Video shooting modes are adjusted using the power button. The Up and Down keys zoom the image on the screen and control the camera interface. The OK button starts and stops video recording.
When connected to a computer via microUSB, the SJ4000 appears as a removable drive. In the interface settings, the device can be turned into a full-fledged webcam for a PC. The Wi-Fi version of the device can synchronize in real time with a smartphone or tablet. The SJ4000 software provides complete control over all aspects of your footage. There is manual adjustment of white balance, exposure, ISO, etc.
The camera can record video in Dash-cam mode. To do this, you need to activate the device, press the power button twice, go to the settings menu and turn on the DVR mode. When recording in a car, the device can be connected to the car's electrical connector via microUSB. The car battery will continuously charge the camera battery.
A security camera function is available in the SJ4000 settings. Once activated, the camera will start shooting every time it detects movement in the frame. It is not recommended to use the SJ4000 as a security system, as the device’s sensors sometimes malfunction.
The video mode offers several resolutions: 1080p, 720p and WVGA. In the last two cases, shooting at 60 frames per second is possible, but this is achieved by duplicating the previous frame. There is a Time Lapse mode with shooting time intervals of 3, 5, 10, 30 and 60 seconds.
Photo shooting options:
- 12 MP, 4000 x 3000
- 8 MP, 3264 x 2448
- 5 MP, 2560 x 1920
- 3 MP, 2048 x 1536
- 2 MP, 1920 x 1080
- 2 MP, 1280 x 720
Test results
The SJCAM SJ4000 is worth purchasing if only because of the huge set of fasteners out of the box. The camera can be installed almost anywhere; its compactness will not interfere with a drone, helmet or bicycle handlebar. Thanks to the corrugated surface of the ends, the camera is simply pleasant to hold in your hands.
Despite its low price, the SJ4000 takes very good pictures. The device lens with a viewing angle of 170 degrees can please good review and detail even for the most picky users. The HDR mode copes well with changes in lighting, and with the help of Time Lapse you can get very interesting video. Those who want to capture high-quality footage will be pleased with the abundance of manual photo and video settings. The only negative is the presence of “fake” 60 frames per second. This value is achieved by simply duplicating the previous frame.
Video examples:
SJCAM positions this model as a universal shooting device. This means that it can also be used as a camera. However, hope for high quality It’s not worth taking frames, it’s better to choose photos for photos alone reflex camera more expensive.
Autonomous operation of the camera is ensured by a removable 900 mAh lithium-ion battery. When shooting video in 1080p, the device will discharge to zero in about 90 minutes. Considering the inexpensive cost, it is better to purchase a spare battery.
Where can I buy
Conclusion
- Only $100 for a good camera;
- Availability of several fastenings in the package;
- Availability of a screen (rare for such a price);
- Removable battery;
- Versatility (DVR, photo and web camera modes).
- “Fake” 60 frames per second;
- Poor microphone sensitivity;
- Inconvenient control in the case.
SJCAM SJ4000 turned out to be an excellent budget clone of GoPro 3. Yes, it lacks a little in functionality, but it can offer impressive starter kit supplies, good resolution display and decent price/quality ratio. 
There is another version of the camera on the market - SJCAM 4000 Wi-Fi. It differs from the reviewed model only by the presence of a module wireless communication. With its help, the device can be synchronized with an Android smartphone on which a proprietary application is pre-installed, which allows you to remotely control almost all functions of the camera.
Among the analogues of the SJ4000, we can highlight the next model in the SJ5000 line and the Xiaomi Yi Action Camera. Their functionality is approximately the same, the difference in cost is about $50.
