Best action cameras in 2024: GoPro, DJI, Insta360 & more
Looking for the best action cameras in 2024 doesn’t have to be a chore. Whether you’re scaling mountains, shredding on gnarly trails, or diving into coral reefs, we’ve got recommendations for the best cameras around.
Action cameras help you relive your adventures with heart-pounding immersion. These all-weather rugged cameras offer a unique perspective to your content, and unlike traditional cameras, they are highly compact and easy to operate.
A good action camera should not only be water and dustproof, but also offer features like image stabilization, long battery life, an easy-to-use interface, the ability to record slow motion and time-lapse, and more.
Whether you plan to hike or participate in adventure sports like surfing, rafting, or even an underwater dive, our guide will help you find the right action camera for your needs and budget.
1. GoPro Hero 12
GoProGoPro is the juggernaut of action camera world, and the Hero 12 is the best action camera you can buy right now. This compact powerhouse can record buttery smooth videos at a high resolution of 5.7K at 60 frames per second with its large 1/1.9-inch CMOS sensor.
This camera shoots in an 8:9 aspect ratio that allows you to edit the content and use it for different social media platforms hassle-free.
Horizon Lock and HyperSmooth 5.0 keep your shots level and shake-free, while a larger sensor improves low-light performance. It boasts user-friendly features like a front LCD, which makes vlogging an easy and intuitive experience.
You can wirelessly adjust settings and start or stop recording straight from your phone. Post-production tools allow quick and easy edits on the go, to boot. There’s also waterproofing to 10m without additional housing, which makes it durable for various activities and weather. However, somewhat middling battery life and subscription-based cloud features require some consideration.
2. GoPro Hero 10
GoProThe GoPro Hero 10 is a couple of generations old camera, which means it is among the most affordable flagship-grade action cameras on the market.
The video capture is upgraded to 5.3K60 for ultra-high-resolution shots. It stays sharply focused with HyperSmooth 4.0 stabilization – another upgrade over the earlier versions.
The GoPro Hero 10’s front-colored display screen and integrated microphone make it ideal for vlogging. The GoPro Hero 10 lets you stream live, sharing adventures directly on social media. Its compact design and rugged build make it perfect for on-the-go action. Accessories like additional batteries, mounts, and housings are readily available for most GoPro cameras and help you get more out of the compact powerhouse.
3. DJI Osmo Action 4
DJIThe DJI Osmo Action 4 targets experienced video enthusiasts as it stands out with cinema-grade video specs. Its powerful control allows advanced manual settings preferred by filmmakers.
Stabilization is among the best-in-class, with RockSteady 2.0 smoothing out aggressive footage. The mounting systems can effortlessly grip devices or attach different rigs. A side color screen aids precise framing, while an adjustable front screen turns it into a dual-purpose vlogging camera. It is one of the few action cams with Micro HDMI and USB-C ports for professional workflows.
The Magnus M automatic mode optimizes settings to focus shooting entirely on the subject. Its tool-free modular design means opening for charging or storage is simple without separate accessories. The DJI Osmo 4 is competitively priced for the top-tier specifications, which makes it attractive to pros and serious hobbyists.
The Osmo Action 4 is waterproof up to 59 meters and can double up as a webcam to help you with office meetings you cannot afford to miss.
4. Insta360 Go 3
Insta360The Insta360 Go 3 is the most compact action camera, hands down. Despite its tiny size, it retains rugged toughness to withstand an active lifestyle or even adventure sports. The Insta360 Go 3 is capable of recording stabilized 2.7K30 video.
Its dual-lens 360 design simultaneously records traditional HD footage as well as spherical videos for creative virtual reality applications. Its compact size lets you wear it around your neck or helmet, allowing you to stick it anywhere without intruding on movement. This makes The Insta360 Go 3 ideal for creating videos with a unique perspective.
The mobile app includes advanced in-camera editing options, robust sharing tools, and mods like a tiny tripod or magnetic charger to unlock hidden abilities. Its long battery easily lasts all day, too. The Insta360 Go 3 is also light on the pocket, and its affordable starting cost makes it ideal for beginners or as a backup option due to its convenient small sizing. It is also great for unique immersive VR content in tight spaces too.
5. DJI Pocket 2
DJIAs an all-in-one vlogging camera, the DJI Pocket 2 impresses with its powerful filming capabilities packed inside a remarkably compact body. It can record 4K60 video and can let you produce professional-quality logs with minimal gear. Its 1/1.7″ sensor effectively captures low-light scenarios better than most phone cameras.
The unique 3-axis gimbal stabilization keeps footage butter-smooth even during active movement. DJI’s robust editing app works seamlessly for on-device editing and seamless multicam blending. It also handles both photos and video well for still and live streaming.
Integrated directional mics pick up excellent natural sound without extra attachments. The front screen also flips 180° for self-shooting. You can get up to 140 minutes of battery runtime, which keeps the camera rolling without any worries. Easy setup and intuitive interface make anyone an ace vlogger quickly. Its compact size means you can slide it into pockets for spontaneous capturing while traveling light. All in all, it’s an excellent all-in-one social media machine.
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