Crosstour 4K 20MP Review: A Basic Budget Action Camera

The Crosstour 4K 20MP, commonly sold as the CT8500, is a basic budget action camera. It was designed for people who wanted wide-angle holiday and outdoor footage without paying for a GoPro. Today, it only makes sense as a very low-cost used or clearance purchase, ideally as a complete kit with its housing, mounts and spare batteries.

Its appeal is straightforward: 4K recording at up to 30 fps, a 170-degree wide lens, electronic stabilisation, a remote control and plenty of accessories. Its limits are equally clear: modest low-light quality, basic controls and stabilisation that is far behind newer cameras.

Who is the Crosstour 4K 20MP for?

This camera can suit a beginner, child or occasional traveller who wants short daylight clips of walking, cycling, holidays or family activities. It is not the right tool for professional video, demanding sports footage, reliable night recording or serious still photography.

If you are weighing up a budget model against a newer camera, see our guide to choosing an action camera.

Video and photo quality

The camera records up to 4K at 30 fps. In good daylight, this can be perfectly adequate for casual playback and social media. It also offers 2.7K/30, 1080p at up to 60 fps and 720p at higher frame rates.

Do not expect flagship-level 4K detail or strong performance after sunset. The 20MP photo setting gives a large file, but resolution alone does not guarantee better photos; lens quality, sensor size and processing matter just as much. JPEG is the main still-image format, with no RAW option.

Design and controls

The body is small and light, with a 2-inch rear display, physical buttons, microSD-card slot, micro USB and mini HDMI. There is no touchscreen. The wide 170-degree lens is useful for capturing a lot of the scene, but it also creates a noticeable fisheye perspective.

Use a clean lens cloth to remove dust and avoid rubbing the front lens with rough fabric. A scratched lens permanently affects every photo and video.

Stabilisation

The built-in electronic image stabilisation can reduce ordinary hand shake, particularly in supported modes. It does not make rough running, cycling or vehicle footage look as smooth as a modern GoPro or DJI camera, and it may be unavailable in some resolution and frame-rate combinations.

For a stationary shot, use a small tripod or a secure mount rather than relying on electronic stabilisation alone.

Water use and housing

The camera needs its waterproof housing for swimming, snorkelling or deeper water use. The housing is the waterproof component, not the bare camera. Listings for this model commonly quote depths up to 30–40 metres for the case, but follow the manual for your exact housing and inspect the gasket and latch before every water session.

A sealed case also reduces built-in microphone quality, which is normal. For clear spoken audio, record outside the case or use a compatible external microphone where appropriate.

Modes, battery and accessories

Features can include time-lapse, burst shooting, self-timer, slow motion, loop recording, driving mode and distortion correction. The kit typically includes a waterproof case, remote control, mounts and straps. Confirm the exact contents before buying because bundles vary.

Battery-life claims are usually measured in easy conditions, such as 1080p recording with Wi-Fi and the screen off. In real use, 4K recording, screen use, cold weather and an older battery reduce runtime. Carry a spare battery for a full day out.

Key specifications

• Model commonly listed as: Crosstour CT8500
• Video: up to 4K/30 fps; 2.7K/30; 1080p up to 60 fps
• Photos: up to 20MP JPEG
• Lens: 170-degree wide-angle fisheye lens
• Screen: 2-inch rear LCD, non-touch
• Stabilisation: electronic image stabilisation in supported modes
• Storage: microSD card required
• Connections: Wi-Fi, micro USB and mini HDMI
• Water use: waterproof housing required

Pros

• Inexpensive way to try an action-camera format
• 4K/30 video can be useful in good light
• Wide-angle lens suits travel and outdoor clips
• Remote control and accessories add practical value
• Waterproof housing expands its use

Cons

• Low-light quality is limited
• Basic electronic stabilisation
• No touchscreen or RAW photos
• Battery life falls quickly in 4K and real-world use
• Only a good purchase at a very low price

Verdict

The Crosstour 4K 20MP is a basic, low-cost action camera rather than a true alternative to a current GoPro. It can still be useful for daylight adventures if you find a complete kit cheaply and keep expectations sensible.

Spend more if smooth stabilisation, low-light quality, refined controls or dependable app support matter to you. For occasional outdoor clips, its simple feature set may be enough.

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