Table of Contents
Choosing the Best Action Cameras can be tricky. Hundreds of action cams are available, ranging from crammed 4K action cameras to cheap budget options. So what is The Best action camera for you – and what features do you need? The longer answer, however, is that the right option depends on what you want to use it for. If you are a dedicated filmmaker, you are looking for a 4K action camera.
If you are an extreme sports enthusiast who wants to include a part of a ski slope, a bike ride, or a kayak race, functions such as loop-record and hands-free voice activation are useful. Some action cameras are waterproof up to 30 meters straight out of the box, others have waterproof housings, others are not even splash-proof. Pricier models add datasets from a fleet of sensors, from GPS and acceleration to temperature and pressure, while others only offer Full HD video.
An important difference to watch out for is the frames per second (fps) for 4K: in simple terms, the more frames, the smoother the results. But just as important as the smartphone app that comes with the most action cameras. These can vary from simple to the latest in automated editing and sharing.
List of the best action cameras
The Best Action Cameras are different than other cameras. They are designed to be attached to helmets, surfboards, cars, and other objects, and they are small, tough, and easy to operate, with a lens that captures the world in high-definition video. Their small size and dramatic POV (“point of view”) images have made them popular among extreme sports participants, who capture their adventures by attaching cameras to themselves or their equipment.
GoPro Hero9 Black
The ultimate action camera – and now better value
- Weight: 158g
- Waterproof: 10m
- 5K video: up to 30fps
- 4K video: up to 60fps
- 1080: up to 240fps
- 720: up to 240fps
- Stills resolution: 20MP
- Battery life: 1-3hrs estimate
The bar has been raised even higher. If you want the very best action camera, GoPro’s latest flagship is the one to go for. It’s true that the brand’s first action camera with a vlogging-style front screen isn’t for everyone, but its 5K resolution certainly makes it the frontrunner. Even if you’re not looking for 5K video per se, a new sensor allows you to capture 14.7 MP of 5K video and 20MP of stills.
The camera also has a larger 2.27-inch display than the GoPro Hero8 Black, super-smooth Hypersmooth 3.0 video stabilization, TimeWarp 3.0 for handheld time-lapses, a travel case, and a soon-to-be-available Max Lens Mod accessory that will offer GoPro Max-like features like 360º horizon lock and an ultra-wide 155º Max SuperView mode. As for now, this is the best action camera that you can buy.
GoPro HERO9 Black - Waterproof Action Camera with Front LCD and Touch Rear Screens, 5K Ultra HD Video, 20MP Photos, 1080p Live Streaming, Webcam, Stabilization
12 used from $199.98
Features
- 5K Video - Shoot stunning video with up to 5K resolution, perfect for maintaining detail even when zooming in
- 20MP Photo with SuperPhoto - Capture crisp, pro-quality photos with 20MP clarity. And with SuperPhoto, HERO 9 Black can automatically pick all the best image processing for you
- Front Display plus Rear Touch Screen - A new, larger rear touch screen with touch zoom on HERO9 Black and a dazzling new front display makes for easy framing and intuitive camera control.Included components:HERO9 Black Camera,Rechargeable Battery,Curved Adhesive Mount,Mounting Buckle,USB-C Cable,Thumb Screw ,Camera Case
- Live Streaming plus Webcam - Live stream in 1080p on social, get HyperSmooth stabilization as you broadcast
- HyperSmooth 3.0 - Experience the ultimate smoothness with our most advanced video stabilization ever
GoPro Hero8 Black
The ultimate action camera is now even better
- Weight: 126g
- Waterproof: 10m
- 4K video: up to 60fps
- 1080: up to 240fps
- 720: up to 240fps
- Stills resolution: : 12MP
- Battery life: 1-3hrs estimate
The 2020 edition of the GoPro dynasty is undoubtedly the best action camera specialist ever and the best action camera you can get, as long as your budget runs out. An important difference with its predecessors is that there are folding feet, which means you have a camera bracket built-in.
And then you can expand the Hero8 Black even further with a new range of beautifully designed optional extras called Mods – we especially like the Display Mod, which adds a second monitor that’s perfect for vloggers. These add-ons cost you more – but you don’t buy the Hero8 Black if you are looking for a budget camera – you buy it because it offers the best video footage, and the best image stabilization system we have used so far. Overall, this is one of the best action cameras right now.
GoPro HERO8 Black - Waterproof Action Camera with Touch Screen 4K Ultra HD Video 12MP Photos 1080p Live Streaming Stabilization
8 used from $139.98
Features
- HyperSmooth 2.0: HERO8 Black has three levels of stabilization: On, High and Boost. Get the widest views, or boost to the smoothest video ever offered in a HERO camera. Works with all resolutions and frame rates, and features in-app horizon leveling
- Streamlined Design: The re-imagined shape is more pocketable, and folding fingers at the base let you swap mounts quickly. A new side door makes changing batteries even faster, and the lens is now 2x more impact-resistant compared to previous models
- Expandable Mods: Vloggers, pro filmmakers and aspiring creators can do more than ever imagined with our HERO8 Black mods (sold separately). Media Mod gives you shotgun-mic performance and lets you attach Light Mod and Display Mod to up your capture game
- Live Streaming in 1080p: Share while you’re there. Live stream in 1080p on social media, get HyperSmooth stabilization as you broadcast via the GoPro app and save footage to your SD card to check out later
- TimeWarp 2.0: Capture super-stabilized time lapse videos while moving through an activity. Automatically adjust speed based on motion, scene detection and lighting. Slow the effect to real time – savoring special moments – and then tap to speed it back up
GoPro Hero7 Black
The Hero8 Black is the new flagship, but the Hero7 Black is still great
- Weight: 118g
- Waterproof: 10m
- 4K video: up to 60fps
- 1080: up to 240fps
- 720: up to 240fps
- Stills resolution: : 12MP
- Battery life: 1-3hrs estimate
For anyone who thought the Hero6 Black could not be improved, GoPro Hero7 gives you HyperSmooth, a brand new in-camera video stabilization system that is so good that it creates new creative possibilities. It even works up to 4K 60 fps. Those using a gimbal on their GoPro can do this because HyperSmooth even gives a handheld video a silky look. It also brings a new possibility to life; handheld TimeLapse video.
Calling TimeWarp, the new 2GB memory of the Hero7 Black makes it possible to apply HyperSmooth to handheld frame-by-frame time-lapse recordings. In addition to this super-stabilized hyper-lapse, the Hero7 Black offers an extended dynamic range, SuperPhoto, and 12 separate voice commands. Overall, this is one of the best action cameras.
GoPro HERO7 Black + Extra Battery - E-Commerce Packaging - Waterproof Digital Action Camera with Touch Screen 4K HD Video 12MP Photos Live Streaming Stabilization
Features
- E-COMMERCE PACKAGING: GoPro HERO7 Black Camera plus Extra Battery- This product is in manufacturer E-Commerce packing (see pictures). The product itself is identical to the one found in retail packaging & it is covered under full standard warranty
- 4K60 VIDEO AND 12MP PHOTOS: Awesome as the moments themselves. 8x Sol-Mo Video - With ultra high frame rate 1080p240 video, you can slow things down by up to 8x to relive funny, interesting or epic moments in all their glory
- HYPERSMOOTH VIDEO STABILIZATION: Get gimbal-like stabilization—without the gimbal. HERO7 Black predicts your movements and corrects for camera shake to deliver insanely smooth footage
- TIME WARP VIDEO plus SUPER PHOTO: Capture super stabilized time lapse videos while you move about a scene. Increase the speed up to 30x to turn longer activities into shareable moments. Get the best photos automatically. With Super Photo, HERO7 Black intelligently applies HDR, local tone mapping or noise reduction to optimize your shots.
- RUGGED plus WATERPROOF: Share experiences you can’t capture with your phone. HERO7 Black is rugged, waterproof without a housing to 33ft (10m) and up for any adventure
DJI Osmo Action
DJI’s entry into the action camera market brings with it a forward-facing selfie-screen
- Weight: 134g
- Waterproof: 11m
- 4K video: up to 60fps
- 1080: up to 240fps
- 720: up to 240fps
- Stills resolution: 12MP
- Battery life: 1-2.25hrs (est)
DJI is best known for its camera drones (and to a lesser extent for its handheld gimbal camera stabilizers) – but with the advent of the Osmo Action has shifted its attention to the action camera market. It looks like it was made to be a direct competitor of the GoPro Hero7 Black – and does a really good job of giving the GoPro a run for its money. We especially love the addition of a full-color front LCD display – making it one of the best action cameras for selfie sequences or vlogging.
DJI OSMO Action Cam Digital Camera Bundle with 2 Displays 36FT/11M Waterproof 4K HDR-Video 12MP 145° Angle, 128gb Micro SD Card, Card Reader, Must Have Accessories
Features
- Bundle for the FPV Pro
- Experience the Thrill of Flying: Enjoy total immersion and intuitive control with DJI Avata. When you combine Avata with the goggles and motion controller, flight becomes accessible to all.
- Flight has Never Been Easier: With the DJI Motion Controller, intuitive flight is in your hands. Squeeze the trigger and bolt forward or turn a corner with the swivel of your wrist.
- Ultra-Smooth 4K Footage: Avata features an upgraded camera system so that no extra attachments are needed. Enjoy next-level imagery with the 1/1.7-inch sensor, 155° FOV, and flagship stabilization.
- Palm-Sized and Agile: The lightweight and compact design of Avata makes it easy to carry and more capable of agile maneuvers. Fly between gaps, though branches, and take it with you on any adventure.
Sony RX0 Mark II
The RX0 Mark II gets the much needed internal 4K recording
- Weight: 110g
- Waterproof: 10m
- 4K video: 30p
- 1080: up to 1000fps
- 720: up to 1000fps
- Stills resolution: 15.3MP
- Battery life: 60 mins
The Sony RX0 II is expensive but comes with features that make it worth considering. The ability to make short movies at speeds of up to 1,000 fps is one of them – you certainly can’t do that with a GoPro. And while the RX0 was able to produce 4K UHD footage only on an external recorder, the RX0 Mark II was able to record 4K internally (and it was about time). The 1-inch sensor produces beautiful images, whether photos or videos, expand the camera with low light output, and offers a beautiful dynamic range.
It is an expensive proposal to be sure, but if you need beautiful slow-motion images there is nothing better and you are looking for ultimate image quality, this is one of the best action cameras to get now. The Sony RX0 II also gets a flip-action front-facing screen, which makes it much more effective as a premium-quality vlogging and content creation tool. Overall, this is one of the best action cameras on the market.
Sony RX0 II 1” (1.0-type) Sensor Ultra-Compact Camera
10 used from $565.00
Features
- 1” (1.0-Type) stacked back-illuminated Exmore RS CMOS sensor
- 24mm F4 Zeiss tessar T lens delivers high-resolution images. Battery life (STILL IMAGES)(CIPA) - Approx. 240shots / Approx. 120 min. Battery life (MOVIES ACTUAL SHOOTING)(CIPA) - pprox. 35minch. Battery life (MOVIES CONTINUOUS SHOOTING)(CIPA) - Approx. 60min
- Internal 4K movie with Pro features and image stabilization; Focus Range (From the Front of the Lens): Approx. 50 cm
- Matchbox sized durable Duralumin, water/shock/crush proof body
- 15.3MP raw up to 16Fps continuous and interval REC. For time-lapse
Insta360 ONE R Twin Edition
A unique proposition of both 4K and 360 action cams
- Weight: Not specified
- Dimensions: 72 x 48 x 32.4 mm
- Waterproof: 16 feet (optional housings also supported)
- Stills resolution: Not specified
- Video resolution: 5.7K
- Memory: MicroSD
- Mount: Bespoke mounting bracket
- Battery life: Not specified
The Insta360 ONE R Twin Edition, which will be released in early 2020, is indeed a very tempting proposition because it can be used both as an action camera and as a 360 camera. In essence, it is called “Twin Edition” because it is two cameras in one, with two lens modules that can be easily swapped. One turns it into a 4K action camera, the other gives it the ability to take 360º images, and it also has a lot of extra features, including 5m waterproofing (which can be extended with a special housing).
AI algorithms also enhance the various shooting modes, and in particular the impressive Auto Frame mode, which can automatically find and select the action in a 360º video. There is also a 1-inch Leica camera mod that gives you another option – you can swap the 360 module for a high-end actioncam. The Insta360 ONE R Twin Edition is a great buy if you want to use your action camera to capture footage in all sorts of different directions. Overall, this is one of the best action cameras right now.
Insta360 ONE R Twin Edition – Action Camera & 360 Camera with Interchangeable Lenses, Stabilization, IPX8 Waterproof, Touch Screen, AI Editing
$439.99 in stock
Features
- 5.7K 360 + 4K Wide Angle: ONE R Twin Edition transforms on the fly from a 360-degree camera to a wide-angle 4K 60fps action camera. Just swap out the lenses.
- FlowState Stabilization: FlowState achieves gimbal-like image stabilization without the gimbal. Thanks to a new scene-detection algorithm, your footage stays clear and steady even in low light.
- Super 5.7K: The Dual-Lens 360 Mod raises the bar with Super 5.7K resolution, leveraging H.265 encoding, advanced image processing and an AI-powered finishing algorithm to preserve detail and make your footage pop.
- IPX8 Waterproof: Whether you're poolside or on a rainy-day ride, this waterproof action camera can handle it. Insta360 ONE R is IPX8 waterproof to 5 meters (16.4ft) when built in the included Mounting Bracket. Or use the Dive Case to keep your camera protected in rough water conditions (e.g. surfing).
- In the Box: 1x 4K Wide Angle Mod, 1x Dual-Lens 360 Mod, 1x Core, 1x Battery Base, 1x Lens Cap and 1x Mounting Bracket.
SJCAM SJ8 Pro
A great-value 4K action camera offering surprisingly high-quality footage
- Weight: 85g
- Waterproof: 30m
- 4K video: up to 60fps
- 1080: up to 120fps
- 720: up to 240fps
- Stills resolution: 12MP
- Battery life: 90 mins
Taking more than a few cues from GoPro, the SJCAM SJ8 Pro offers much of the functionality of top-quality Hero cameras, but at a considerably friendlier price. Not only does it have 4K footage at 60p, but this footage also benefits from six-axis image stabilization, which really comes in handy in action shooting situations.
Thanks to the standard GoPro mount, the SJ8 can be mounted on anything you want to attach it to, and there’s also decent slow-motion if you lower the resolution to 1080p or 720p. The waterproof housing is a bit clunky to use, with a lever lock system that can be tricky to operate, but this is arguably the best action cam at this price. Overall, this is one of the best action cameras right now.
SJCAM SJ8 Pro WiFi Sport Action Camera,HD 4K 60fps12MP 30M Waterproof Camcorder Digital Zoom 2.33” Dual Touch Screen Sports Action Cam
Features
- 4K Ultra HD camera, equipped with SONY IMX377 recording native 4K/60PFS video and 12MP photos. shoot more wonderful photos, more rich videos. Using the latest Ambarella H22 S85 action camera chipset solution, better at handling and achieving high quality video and photos with ease.
- USB Type-C connector, faster transfer than all previous models with external Mic-support. 1200mAh high capacity battery, lasts 90mins while shooting on 4K/60PFS.
- Supports RAW format, you can save image files in lossless format, more convenient for post-editing, Makes it easier to create professional photos.
- Submersible to 30 meters with waterproof case, 170-degree wide angle, best for sports enthusiasts like snorkeling, riding, swimming and other, perfect for capturing amazing moments.
- Large 2.33'' UHD touchscreen, operate the camera with better comfort. Supports 2.4GHz & 5GHz Wi-Fi communication with mobile devices, uses gyro EIS stabilization, clear 8x digital zoom, and a more user-friendly dual UI interface. › See more product details
GoPro HERO6 Black
GoPro’s older flagship model is still a great buy
- Weight: 118g
- Waterproof: 10m
- 4K video: up to 60fps
- 1080: up to 240fps
- 720: up to 240fps
- Stills resolution: 12MP
- Battery life: 1-3hrs (est)
What is not nice about the genre-defining GoPro HERO6 Black? Yes, it is pricey, but the 4K video recording of the action camera at 60 fps video is hard to beat. This is partly due to the low-light performance that has improved over the previous HERO5 Black and excellent image stabilization to suppress camera shake, although there is much more to see here than video quality.
Voice activation is useful when you have your hands full, and the native drop-proof, waterproof design – up to 10 m without an extra housing – makes it incredibly useful. This also applies to the excellent Quik app for smartphones, which comes with a QuikStories function that automatically transfers and edits video for you. With many functions, the GoPro HERO6 Black is one of the best action cameras in the area.
GoPro HERO6 Black Action Camera
Features
- Capture and playback the coolest moments exactly as they happened with what HERO is calling its best stabilization to-date, plus two times the performance at 4k60 and 1080/240 to record life at double the frames per second for smooth footage and unparalleled slow-motion playback
- Take 12mp photos; a series of photos at 12mp/30fps; time lapse photos with .5, 1.2, 5, 10, 30 and 60 second intervals; night photos with seven different exposure settings to choose from; and night lapse photos with up to 60 minute intervals
- Built-in GPS capabilities capture speed, elevation and other real-time stats, so your footage tells the whole astonishing story and use QuikStories to share an auto-edited rewind of the day, with total customization such as music, titles and more
- With the new built-in GP1 processor, image quality looks unbelievably crisp—because it is; added 5GHz Wi-Fi means video and image transfers to your phone happen three times faster than before for seamless sharing
- Use up to 12 voice commands without ever hitting a button, so you play action hero and director simultaneously
Sony FDR-X3000
4K meets ever image stabilization in this Sony action camera
- Weight: 114g
- Waterproof: 60m
- 4K video: up to 30fps
- 1080: up to 120fps
- 720: up to 240fps
- Stills resolution: 12MP
- Battery life: 2-3hrs
The highlight of Sony’s latest attempt at creating an action camera should be the Live-View Remote – a wireless, handheld touchscreen that lets you control the FDR-X3000 and watch a live feed from the ZEISS Tessar lens. In practice, that accessory is unreliable, but the FDR-X300 has much more to offer.
The 4K 30fps video is of excellent quality, with its impressive balanced Optical SteadyShot which turns out to be the highlight; in one way or another, even the unsustainable shots in the hand smooth out, Sony’s camera shock compensation tech is unrivaled. As a bonus, the MPK-UWH1 waterproof case from Sony is in the box, making the FDR-X3000 waterproof up to 60 meters. This is one of the best action cameras you can get.
Sony FDRX3000/W Underwater Camcorder 4K, White
Features
- Ultimate image stabilization from Balanced Optical SteadyShot Professional 4K with ZEISS lens and Exmor R CMOS sensorCamera control.Power Requirements 3.6 V (battery pack),Battery type NP-BX1
- Splash-proof body or use incl. waterproof housing down to 197ft. Selectable viewing angle: Wide, Medium or Narrow and 3x zoomHigh quality 12MP still images and up to 10 fps in burst mode
- Interval record at 8.3MP for stills and 4K time-lapse videoHigh Quality stereo sound with wind noise reductionBuilt-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC, GPS, HDMI, USB and mic jack
- Intuitive interface, 3x rec. lights and adjustable beep volume;Shoot at desired angle with adjustable FOV and zooming
- NOTE: Refer User Manual on Technical Specification before use.Monaural Speaker
TomTom Bandit
Auto-editing makes this bullet-cam stand out
- Weight: 190g
- Waterproof: no
- 4K video: up to 15fps
- 1080: up to 60fps
- 720: up to 120fps
- Stills resolution: 16MP
- Battery life: up to 3hrs
The TomTom Bandit has all the core functions, but they are offered here in ‘lite’. For example, there is no water resistance, but a supplied splash-proof lens cap is sufficient for most users (and a lens cap of 40 m is available). Idem the resolutions; 4K at 15 fps is not great, and effective slow-motion can only be performed in less than HD resolution, but that also applies to deal-breakers.
The TomTom Bandit, however, has GPS, accelerometer, gyroscope and pressure sensors and these are used by the ‘Create a Story’ section of the smartphone app to automatically select the highlights from your recordings. In fact, the only thing you need is a shake to make a compilation video that is easy to upload and share. The battery life is also an impressive three hours. Overall, this is one of the best action cameras to buy right now.
TomTom Bandit 4k Action Video Camera
Features
- 4k HD video camera provides the highest resolution action footage
- Long battery life allows for 3h of nonstop filming with cable free batt stick
- Sport Action camera contains built in sensors to monitor speed, g force, altitude, and rotation and appears on playback videos to prove your performance
- Use the bandit app (iOS & android) for instant playback and to easily drag, drop and share all Action footage
- Premium pack includes: remote control, handle bar mount, dive lens cover, 360 pitch mount, power cable and go pro mount adapter
Olympus Tough TG-Tracker
A data-hungry and exceptionally tough action camera for extreme climates
- Weight: 180g
- Waterproof: 30m
- 4K video: up to 30fps
- 1080: up to 60fps
- 720: up to 240fps
- Stills resolution: 8MP
- Battery life: 90 mins
Designed to cope with the difficult things, the 4K-capable Tough TG-Tracker is watertight up to 30 meters without housing and can perform up to -10ºC. Not only that, but it is drop-resistant from 2 meters and even resistant to 100 kg. A fold-out 3.8-inch screen makes it easy to see what is being filmed, while a LED headlamp allows night shots.
In addition, the Action Track Sensors suite (for GPS, compass, accelerometer, barometric pressure, temperature, and water) adds data to video. A must-have action camera for adventurers in extreme climates, this data-hungry, pocket-sized shooter’s only real weakness is the low-resolution photos. But still, it is one of the best action cameras on the market.
Olympus TG-Tracker with 1.5-Inch LCD (Green)
5 used from $299.99
Features
- 4K 30P Video capture
- Dimensions 35.0 x 56.5 x 93.2mm,1.37 x 2.22 x 3.67 inches. 204 Degree Extreme Angle f2.0 High-Speed Lens
- Waterproof to 100 feet/30 meters without housing
- Built in Wi-Fi
- 5 Built-In sensors capture movement: GPS, eCompass, Accelerometer, Thermometer, and Barometer
SJCAM SJ7 Star
A great-value 4K action camera, though it excels with Full HD
- Weight: 74g
- Waterproof: 30m
- 4K video: up to 30fps
- 1080: up to 120fps
- 720: up to 200fps
- Stills resolution: 12MP
- Battery life: 2hrs
At first glance, the SJ7 Star action camera corresponds to a GoPro, where it matters. The 4K video is detailed and colorful and there is a 2-inch touchscreen and even still images impress (it shoots in 12 MP, but interpolates to 16 MP). The simple, compact design is another plus and a supplied waterproof case achieves up to 30 m, while an optional SJ Remote clicks on a watch strap. Dig deeper, however, and the SJ7 Star lacks a few professional qualities.
For example, image stabilization is not possible when recording in 4K and you can not take pictures in RAW format. There is also no GPS or voice control – or a decent smartphone app – and that touchscreen is not pleasant to use. For users of a smooth, reliable Full HD video, however, the SJ7 Star remains one of the best action cameras to buy.
SJCAM SJ7 STAR 4K 12MP 2" Touch Screen Metal Body Gyro Waterproof Sports Action Camera Black
Features
- DESCRIPTION:SJ7 STAR is truly a wonder with true 4K video and a metal body and 2" Touch screen this is really the camera everyone has been waiting for. The camera comes equipped with gyro stabilization and slow motion record and time lapse and is sure to please any action recording enthusiasts.
- ACCESSORIES:SJ7 STAR comes with a variety of mounts including the waterproof case, bicycle mount, flat mount for a dash cam option and a curved mount fitted with adhesive for a helmet. A multi-language booklet comes with the camera so anyone can start shooting their favorite subjects. There is also a quick release j-hook buckle and other mounts such as the universal 1/4" tripod mount and another tripod mount adapter.
- FEATURES:The SJ7 STAR has remote capabilities with the SJCAM app and also the SJCAM remote selfie stick and the SJCAM remote watch. These tools easily pair with the SJ7. This camera can use the SJCAM external microphone which enhances audio. The mics come with clips to easily attach where you need them most.
- PHOTO/VIDEO:Video can be shot at 1080P 4K: 3840×2160 16:9 30fps (Native 4K), 960P, and 720P. Single Images are 12 MP and are interpolated to 16 MP.
- BATTERY/WARRANTY:The battery for the SJ7 STAR is a 1000 mAh Lithium-Ion Rechargeable Battery and one is included with the package. SJCAM honors a 1 year warranty on the camera and a 6 month warranty for the battery.
GoPro HERO5 Black
It may have been surpassed, but this classic action camera still impresses
- Weight: 118g
- Waterproof: 10m
- 4K video: up to 30fps
- 1080: up to 120fps
- 720: up to 240fps
- Stills resolution: 12MP
- Battery life: 1-3hrs (est)
The most important drop-down function when you defrost the latest HERO6 Black in favor of the HERO5 Black is that the latter reduces the video quality from 4K at 60 fps to 4K at 30 fps, but whether this is important or not is your call. Other than that, it weighs the same and is also waterproof up to 10 m, and has both voice control commands and GPS. Oh, and the brilliant editing apps that really help GoPro stand out from the crowd.
There are, however, a few disadvantages. The image stabilization is not as sophisticated as with the newer version and the touch screen can be difficult to use, especially when it is wet. Apart from that, the GoPro HERO5 Black remains one of the best action cameras that has more value now than it has been replaced.
GoPro HERO5 Black 4K Action Camera - Black
Features
- Stunning 4K video and 12MP photos. In Single, Burst, and Time Lapse modes
- RAW photos provide the most flexibility when using advanced photo editing software. WDR photo mode captures both added detail in shadows and highlights in the scene
- Fine-tune exposure settings with simple on-screen Exposure Control
- Advanced audio processing captures left and right stereo audio channels.
- Captures the location where your photos and videos are taken.
Akaso EK7000 Pro
Best budget-priced action camera
- Weight: 61g
- Waterproof: Yes, to 40 metres
- 4K video: At 25fps
- 1080p video: At 60fps
- 720p video: No
- Stills resolution: 16 megapixels
- Battery life: Up to 90 minute per charge
This upgrade of the 2016 EX7000 model sticks a ‘Pro’ suffix to the name and shoehorns in 4K shooting. It looks like we’re getting our money’s worth quite a bit, as this model also has 16MP stills and a two-inch touchscreen. There’s also anti-shake, albeit of the electronic variety, while the waterproof body allows it to withstand depths of 40 meters and a selectable dive mode allows users to compensate for the lack of red light for underwater scenes.
Images are stored on an optional microSD card, which of course has an additional cost. Included in the box is a remote control that can be attached to your wrist, plus various mounts and cables and the two lithium polymer batteries required. As the above suggests, Wi-Fi is included, as is the ability to achieve time-lapse special effects, so all in all, this is an option worth exploring further. Overall, this is one of the best action cameras right now.
AKASO EK7000 Pro 4K Action Camera with Touch Screen EIS Adjustable View Angle Web Camera 40m Waterproof Camera Remote Control Sports Camera with Helmet Accessories Kit
$84.99 in stock
2 used from $77.88
Features
- UPGRADE SERIES OF AKASO EK7000: AKASO EK7000 Pro action camera delivers 4K/30fps, 1080P/60fps videos and 20MP photos that capture every moment in crisp detail and unparalleled clarity.
- INTUITIVE UI DESIGN: Ultra 2 inch IPS touch screen shows everything crystal clearly and brightly, easy to change settings, switch shooting modes, preview and playback footage.
- ELECTRONIC IMAGE STABILIZATION: Built-in Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS) delivers steady and smooth videos. AKASO EK7000 Pro sports camera ensures excellent experience in shooting fast-moving objects.
- WATERPROOF CAMERA UP TO 131FT: Equipped with the upgraded waterproof case, this underwater camera can deep dive up to 131 feet, ready to capture all details of your adventures. Ideal for water sports such as swimming, surfing, diving, snorkeling, etc.
- ADJUSTABLE VIEW ANGLE: You can set the view angle of this action camera depending on your needs between super wide, wide, medium and narrow. It's easier to hit someone with low angle. With high angle you can see more.
Akaso Brave 7 LE
A twin-screen action cam for less
- Weight: 61g
- Waterproof: 3ft/1m (131ft/40m with supplied casing)
- 4K video: At 30fps
- 1080p video: At 60/30fps
- 720p video: 240/120/60fps
- Stills resolution: 20 megapixels
- Battery life: Up to 90 minute per charge
If you need a front-facing screen for vlogging – or to make sure you stay in focus when filming yourself skiing down a slope with a selfie stick – this is a bargain. It has the same killer feature found on the GoPro Hero 9 and the DJI Osmo Action, but the second screen comes at a fraction of the cost.
You get 4K recording and 20 megapixel photos – plus a capable 6-axis image stabilization system. In the box, you’ll also find a host of accessories, including a second battery, mounts and an underwater housing. Note that, unlike many competitors, you must use this housing before taking your action cam into the water. Overall, this is one of the best action cameras right now.
AKASO Brave 7 LE 4K30FPS 20MP WiFi Action Camera with Touch Screen Vlog Camera EIS 2.0 Remote Control 131 Feet Underwater Camera with 2X 1350mAh Batteries
$109.99 in stock
Features
- BORN ALL-WEATHER ACTION CAMERA - Brave 7 LE action camera is weatherproof and distinct to unlock all the filming scenarios and ease your vlogging experience. Its IPX7 water-resistant design can protect the action camera from rain, snow and water splashing. Your underwater adventure can even down to 131FT/40M while equipped with the included waterproof housing.
- CONVENIENT DUAL-DISPLAY - With innovate dual color screens design, you can change framing and monitoring views between back and front, especially the vivid front screen can satisfy your selfies need and 2-inch back touch screen makes it easy to use than ever. Press and hold Mode button to switch between the front screen and the touchscreen camera view.
- SHOOT 4K VIDEO & 20MP PHOTO - This action camera can take hyper-quality 4K 30Fps video and 20MP photo, recording your adventure without missing any details!
- ELECTRONIC IMAGE STABILIZATION 2.0 - This action camera is equipped with improved 6-axis EIS, it can provide gimbal-like stabilization and greatly boost the stability and fluency of your recording. It can enable excellent footage even you or the object is in fast-moving.
- A FULL SET OF PROFESSIONAL FUNCTIONS & FREE ACCESSORIES - Digital zoom function and various shooting modes, such as time-lapse, burst photo and fast motion, help you create your footage beyond imagination. Included accessories of 2 rechargeable batteries, remote, waterproof housing and multifunctional mounting kits help you expand your usage scenarios with pleasant budget.