SJ7000 Action Camera Review: Bargain-Priced Cam



[2017 update: The SJ7000 is a still a decent camera, but it's been quickly outpaced by many other budget cameras. Consider the excellent Firefly 7S, a very budget-priced action camera with awesome features and fantastic image quality. Check out the review here and video here https://youtu.be/Vv3cAGdYJDI  ]

Recently got my hands on the SJ7000, courtesy of GearBest, a new budget-priced action camera. Got to take it out on a long fishing trip to the Eastern Sierra. Check out the review AND the footage of the awesome fishing trip I had in this part of California!



Overview
The SJ7000 is yet another action camera aiming for the bargain market, with a host of neat features. At first glance, it looks just like the popular SJ4000, which I have also reviewed. In fact, it's basically a clone of it but don't take this as a bad thing! The cases are compatible, batteries, and even actual camera size are virtually identicle. Two main differences: SJ7000 sports a different software and the SJ7000 has a much larger back LCD screen, making viewing photos and adjusting settings much easier. 


SJ4000 on the right, SJ7000 on the left





Accessories
The SJ7000 comes with a ton of accessories. Most action camera come with at least a few extra attachments, but the SJ7000 really piles them in. It's GoPro compatible with it's mounting system, definitely a plus.  You'll find a solid waterproof case (much easier to push the buttons on this one compared to the SJ4000 models), handlebar, belt clip, angle mount, screw mount, 90 degrees mount, charger, zip ties, adhesive pads, extra back door, and more packed into the camera box. Definitely a stellar set of accessories!





Features
This action camera is basically on par with the SJ4000 when it comes to video and photo specs. It uses a Novatek 96655 chipset, films at 1080p 30 fps, 720p 60 fps, and has a really nice auto photo shutter delay (3 sec, 5 sec, 10 sec), all while filming at a delicious 170 degrees (I love the wide angle views that GoPro and other action cameras uses, glad the SJ7000 continues with the wide view). Following is a list of all the features

Lens170 degrees, wide angle HD
Display2″ LTPS
Video formats1080P/30FPS (1920*1080) and 720P/60FPS (1280*720). MOV
AudioBuilt-in microphone and speaker
PhotoJPG images with 12MP, 8MP and 5MP resolution
Working modesMultiple photo shooting modes: Single shot and Snapper. Single Shot/Self-timer 2s/5s/10s/continuous Shooting.
Battery900mAh battery
StorageMicro SD memory card slot, supports up to 32GB memory cards
ConnectivityWIFI
Connectorsmicro USB and mini HDMI
Waterproofup to 30 meters with case
FPVN/A
OtheriOS and Android support
Camera size59.27 x 41.13 x 29.28mm
Weight71g
Colors7 colors: white, black, silver, golden, yellow, pink and blue


Performance
I took the SJ7000 out on a long multi-night hiking and camping trip in the Eastern Sierras. The battery held enough charge for several long hours of on/off filming and shooting. I only had to recharge it once during the trip, and was able to record fishing and hiking at 3 different locations. Camera buttons on the waterproof are really easy to push for on/off recording, and the audible beep helps you know when are actually recording. Finally, the delayed shutter options was great for grabbing some selfies with ease. I didn't the Android wifi option for syncing my phone with the camera, but it was nice knowing it was available if I needed to upload pics online without a traditional PC connection. Video quality turned out quite well, onpar with the SJ4000, maybe even a little better. I did notice the odd blue halo effect that the SJ4000 has appeared in this one as well. The photo quality seemed a little less than the SJ4000 though, strangely (less detail, not as impressive). Audio quality was excellent when out of the case; although I usually don't include too much audio from my fishing trips. Take a look at the following sample footage video from the trip and the photos with it! (All footage unedited/raw without color correction or contrast):









Footage

You'll notice the annoying Date/Timestamp on all the photos. I accidentally left it on, for photos and video. Be sure to turn that off (unless you really like having the timestamp on). The times are incorrect as well, as I didn't adjust it before heading out. 


Summary

The SJ7000 is a solid clone of the SJ4000 (no relation). It doesn't break any new ground compared the SJ4000, but it amazingly cheap right now, at only $59.99 (at GearBest, if the price goes up, try coupon code GBSJ7000 for $61.99), also on Amazon (link). Overall, if you are looking for a affordable action camera, with a solid set of accessories, and reliable video quality, then the SJ7000 is a worthy camera to consider. Just don't hold your breath on the photos, they aren't that great (video is better), Feel free to contact me if you have any questions about the camera, footage, etc.
https://goo.gl/rT1nkE

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48 comments

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November 7, 2015 at 12:25 AM delete

My camera got the following issues:

1. Unit become quite warm after merely 5 mins of use.

2. Video recording auto start when I turned on, unable to switch to photo capture mode.

3. Photo auto download after capture although I set to OFF for auto download.

4. The power adaptor tripped the power for the whole house. Now I need to engage the electrician. Sigh.

Wonder if you have the same issue?




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November 7, 2015 at 12:25 AM delete

My camera got the following issues:

1. Unit become quite warm after merely 5 mins of use.

2. Video recording auto start when I turned on, unable to switch to photo capture mode.

3. Photo auto download after capture although I set to OFF for auto download.

4. The power adaptor tripped the power for the whole house. Now I need to engage the electrician. Sigh.

Wonder if you have the same issue?




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November 8, 2015 at 7:58 AM delete

Hi Terence! Sorry to hear that about your SJ7000. I didn't experience any of those issues, that is very strange and frustrating! Almost sounds like a different setup? Are you sure it is the SJ7000?

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November 28, 2015 at 1:34 AM delete

Now buy your product in UK, We sale all brand products and things from TRD Electronics.
Canon ef 50mm f/1.8 ii Camera Lens

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December 11, 2015 at 6:57 PM delete

Is it okay until now ? I've planned to buy this sj7000 but still confusing.

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December 31, 2015 at 8:48 PM delete

I am having issues with the audio on my SJ7000.When i put the SD card in the tv in comes up on screen Audio format not supported, and no audio on movies.Does anyone know how i can fix this?

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December 31, 2015 at 8:49 PM delete

I am having issues with the audio on my SJ7000.When i put the SD card in the tv in comes up on screen Audio format not supported, and no audio on movies.Does anyone know how i can fix this?

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February 2, 2016 at 12:45 AM delete

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audio speakers

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February 2, 2016 at 3:36 AM delete

Hello,

I just bought the Sj7000, everything seems to be working fine but there is one noticeable problem. When I turned ON the wifi while recording and when I playback the recorded video there is a strange sound in which I do not know how to describe it. It is highly noticeable especially when everything around me is in complete silent.

Do you have the same problem?

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February 2, 2016 at 6:11 AM delete

No, I haven't noticed that problem. Sounds very strange. Sorry about that!

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March 9, 2016 at 6:00 AM delete

Hi,how do you get the sound to come on when watching your videos back when connecting it to your TV?

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March 9, 2016 at 6:00 AM delete

Hi,how do you get the sound to come on when watching your videos back when connecting it to your TV?

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March 29, 2016 at 8:39 AM delete

Uh oh, did it ever turn on in the first place?

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May 1, 2016 at 1:37 AM delete

Mine did in the first place. Then seller sent me update for firmware which caused the screen to go white, and after half hour it went out(with full battery) and i could never turn it on again.

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May 28, 2016 at 8:00 AM delete

hello, my sj7000 has a serious problem. the self timer function does not work. if I imposed for example the continuos shooting in 5 seconds it takes only one photo and that's it. my sj4000 instead takes a picture every 5 seconds. sj7000 this function in your work?

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June 25, 2016 at 3:57 AM delete

good evening my friends. I also have a same camera sj7000 and tried to do an upgrade and now has blocked. How can I get the old firmware to restore it to life. upgrade does every time I try to put some firmware from another camera but not the correct firmware and thus can not be opened. if anyone has found a solution please help me. thank you very much.

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June 30, 2016 at 7:59 PM delete

I have just bought SJ7000 but it seems like the battery can only last for about 1 hour. Is that true?

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July 1, 2016 at 5:13 PM delete

hello my friend. i have problem with my sj7000 action camera but i have not a firmware to update my sj7000.can you help my if you find something

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July 1, 2016 at 7:11 PM delete

Hello, i already turn off timestamp on my device but still appear on my image. Do you know how to turn off correctly? Sorry for my bad english.

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July 11, 2016 at 8:45 AM delete

Hi as soon as I turn camera on it automatically videos and I can't stop it/change it just turn it off.
Any suggestions please ?

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July 11, 2016 at 8:45 AM delete

Hi as soon as I turn camera on it automatically videos and I can't stop it/change it just turn it off.
Any suggestions please ?

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August 5, 2016 at 5:09 PM delete

Help me. Why my sj7000 wifi cannot connect with my phone? Help :(

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August 14, 2016 at 1:54 AM delete

I need help guys. :( I have my sj7000 for only 2 days now. I need new firmware becuze I updated it to sj4000 firmware so it doesnt work. I cant find where to download latest firmware for sj7000. Please help guys.. :( <3

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August 14, 2016 at 1:55 AM delete

I need help guys. :( I have my sj7000 for only 2 days now. I need new firmware becuze I updated it to sj4000 firmware so it doesnt work. I cant find where to download latest firmware for sj7000. Please help guys.. :( <3

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August 14, 2016 at 2:53 AM delete

Have you checked that motion detection is turned off?

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August 24, 2016 at 1:04 AM delete

Can anyone suggest best possible setting to get best quality photo and video? Mine appears real grainy and blurry

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August 24, 2016 at 1:05 AM delete

Can anyone suggest best possible setting to get best quality photo and video? Mine appears real grainy and blurry

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August 24, 2016 at 1:05 AM delete

Can anyone suggest best possible setting to get best quality photo and video? Mine appears real grainy and blurry

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August 28, 2016 at 12:10 AM delete

There seems to be many SJ7000's on the various web sites selling at very different prices. Who makes this camera and who owns the rights to the SJ7000 brand I wonder? Go Pro is a brand and a company but what is the SJ7000 in comparison?

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August 28, 2016 at 12:10 AM delete

There seems to be many SJ7000's on the various web sites selling at very different prices. Who makes this camera and who owns the rights to the SJ7000 brand I wonder? Go Pro is a brand and a company but what is the SJ7000 in comparison?

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August 29, 2016 at 7:05 AM delete

Hi, nice review. Can It take timelaps videos?

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sas
September 20, 2016 at 2:08 PM delete

My footage stops at 3 minutes. Is that normal? How long is it supposed to be able to film?

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November 7, 2016 at 3:11 PM delete

1. Its normal.
2. Try to turn of the "Motion detection" under settings, it will automatically record when you move your camera.
.3...
.4...

Btw always use SD with class (4) or better to avoid SDERROR.

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November 7, 2016 at 3:23 PM delete

Are referring to "capture mode" which serve as selfy timer? Or timelaps which under the "settings Time-lapse Mode" and you can record it under the video panel not in the photo panel?

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November 7, 2016 at 3:25 PM delete

Did you setup your cyclic record to 3mins under the settings? Then its normal, if not try to change your SD card to higher class, my recommendation are the class 10s..

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December 2, 2016 at 8:44 AM delete

Hi. I have the SJcam7000 for a week. I don't know exactly how to turn on the wifi. Can you help me?

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December 26, 2016 at 2:20 AM delete

Hi,

I am using SJ7000 and I am using it as dash cam for my car. I have observed that recording stops after 45mins even though there is enough charge. Is there any settings to be changed so that recording can last longer time.

Please suggest

Regards,
Mithun

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December 26, 2016 at 1:36 PM delete

Turn on camera and push on the right side up button. Now go your phone wifi settings and search the camera wifi and connect. If its done go to application and touch connect camera. :) i hope can i helped to you :)

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December 26, 2016 at 1:43 PM delete

I need help! I have 96655/sj7000 (novatek?) its very good but no record sound or very quiet. Any idea?
And where find firmwares for this camera?

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December 27, 2016 at 7:20 PM delete

How do I use the the continuous shooting mode?? It doesn't appear on my settings. I want take 1 picture every 5 second. What I have to do?

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December 27, 2016 at 7:20 PM delete This comment has been removed by the author.
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