Action cameras are versatile tools, prized for their compactness, lightness, and often waterproof design. Their mounting versatility allows them to be attached to a variety of objects, from sports equipment like skateboards and bicycles to helmets, body parts, and even pets.
In recent years, action cameras have largely supplanted traditional camcorders in the consumer market. Whether for family memories or creative projects, many now turn to cameras like GoPro for their wide-angle shots and vlogs. Meanwhile, smartphones and newer mirrorless cameras have become the go-to devices for casual home movies.
Even in professional settings, action cameras find utility. While larger sensor cameras with interchangeable lenses are preferred, modern action cams can produce video of sufficient quality to be intercut with footage from other sources. For example, shots capturing the interior of an exploding car may well have been captured using a GoPro.
Below, we’ve curated a list of our favorite action cameras across various budget ranges, catering to different needs and preferences.
QUICK LIST
Last update on 2024-03-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.
Top 5 BEST 4K ACTION CAMERAS OF 2024
GoPro Hero12 Black
- High Dynamic Range Video plus Photo: HERO12 Black takes its best-in-class image quality to the next level with HDR for both videos (5.3K and 4K) and photos. Great in environments with both shadows and bright light, HDR captures the subtle details of the scene that might typically blend into the darkness of shadows or disappear in the bright spots of your shot. The result is dynamic footage with true-to-life color and precision.
- Unbelieveable Image Quality: With 5.3K video that gives you 91% more resolution than 4K and an incredible 665% more than 1080p, HERO12 Black captures the action with crisp detail and cinematic image quality with High Dynamic Range (HDR) while also taking 27MP photos. You can also grab stunning photos up to 24.7MP of your favorite shots from your videos using the GoPro Quik app.
- Emmy Award- Winning HyperSmooth 6.0 Stabilization: HyperSmooth continues to set the bar for insanely smooth footage and has the hardware to back it up—a 2021 Emmy for In-Camera Sensor and Software Stabilization. HERO12 Black makes it even better by maximizing HyperSmooth AutoBoost performance with more stabilization while still delivering less image cropping. Bike, skate, ski, chase your kids through the park or get awesome pet POV shots—even the shakiest footage comes out silky smooth.
Last update on 2024-03-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.
The GoPro Hero12 Black stands out as the top choice in the action camera market today. As the latest iteration of the camera that pioneered the genre, it represents the pinnacle of technical advancement. Offering support for 5.3K60, 4K120, and 2.7K240 capture rates, it pairs these capabilities with best-in-class stabilization and horizon-leveling technology. Additionally, scenes with varying lighting conditions benefit from HDR at 5.3K30 or 4K60. Moreover, its nearly square image sensor enhances picture quality, particularly for creators producing vertical 9:16 frames for platforms like TikTok. Furthermore, its rugged and waterproof design eliminates the need for additional casing, ensuring durability in challenging environments.
The Hero12 Black caters to a broad audience of users seeking a versatile action camera. From extreme sports enthusiasts such as surfers and skateboarders, who can mount the camera for first-person views of their stunts, to vloggers who will appreciate features like the front-facing color display, standard tripod socket, and compatibility with the Media Mod accessory system. Additionally, its 10-bit video capabilities with customizable color profiles (standard, HDR, or log) are a significant boon for editors seeking flexibility and high-quality footage.
Pros
- Class-leading video stabilization
- 10-bit HDR, GP-Log, and SDR video profiles
- Up to 5.3K60, 4K120, or 2.7K240 recording capabilities
Cons
- Long-running GPS feature has been dropped
- One battery may not last an entire day of use.
2.Insta360 X3
- 360 Capture & Reframing: X3 captures 5.7K 360 Active HDR video, so you’ll never miss the action. Choose your favorite angle after the fact with easy reframing tools in the AI-powered Insta360 app.
- Dual 1/2″ 48MP Sensors: X3’s new sensors pack in more pixels for greater clarity and detail, even in low light. Capture 72MP photos, 8K timelapses and more.
- 4K Single-Lens Mode: Select a lens to shoot wide-angle footage just like a single-lens action cam. Get maximum resolution with 4K30fps or an extremely wide 170° field of view with 2.7K MaxView. Your first-person view footage has never looked so good.
Last update on 2024-03-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.
The Insta360 X3 emerges as the top choice for those seeking a dual-lens, 360-degree video camera. It excels at capturing a comprehensive view of the surroundings and provides users with powerful software tools for creative editing and manipulation of the footage. With its waterproof construction and durability, it’s well-suited for mounting in various action-oriented scenarios.
The Insta360 X3 appeals to creators looking to explore the realm of 360-degree capture and experiment with associated editing techniques. Its HDR video profile effectively handles mixed lighting conditions, while its capabilities extend to producing special effects shots such as Matrix-style bullet time and motion-based time-lapse sequences.
Pros
- Boasts 5.7K30 HDR video resolution for exceptional footage quality.
- Features a slim, waterproof build, ensuring durability and adaptability.
Cons
- Requires video processing before editing, potentially extending the workflow.
- Involves a learning curve to master 360- degree editing techniques effectively.
3.GoPro Hero10 Black
- Revolutionary Processor: Faster. Smoother. Better. The powerful new GP2 engine changes the game—snappy performance, responsive touch controls and double the frame rate for amazingly smooth footage. Designed specifically for the demanding nature of the GoPro, the GP2 “system on a chip” is by far our fastest ever.
- High-Res Photos plus Videos, High Frame Rate: Step up to the sharpest-shooting GoPro ever. Upgraded to incredible 23MP photos and 5.3K video resolution at 60fps, HERO10 offers double the frame rate for amazingly smooth motion. Plus, there’s 8x slo-mo at 2.7K and you can pause videos and grab 15.8MP still photos from 5.3K video that look amazing.
- Unbelievable Image Quality: Shoot with fine detail, realistic textures and stunning contrast, even in low light. Images look their best thanks to a new water-shedding hydrophobic lens cover that repels water while helping to eliminate lens flare and other artifacts.
Last update on 2024-03-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.
Despite being two generations old, the Hero10 Black remains a part of the GoPro lineup as the budget-friendly option. While it lacks some of the advanced features of its newer counterparts, such as HDR profile and a versatile aspect sensor, it still offers impressive recording capabilities with 5.3K60 and 4K120 video resolution. Additionally, it maintains effective stabilization and compatibility with the Media Mod accessory system, ensuring versatility in usage.
The Hero10 Black is an excellent choice for action camera enthusiasts seeking affordability without compromising on performance. it offers a competitive alternative to other GoPro and DJI models. Moreover, with the option of an annual GoPro subscription, users can access additional features like automated video editing and direct uploads from the camera to the cloud, enhancing the overall value proposition.
Pros
- Offers 5.3K capture at up to 60fps, ensuring high-resolution footage.
- upports 120fps 4K recording for impressive slow-motion shots.
Cons
- ncluded battery drains quickly, potentially necessitating frequent recharging.
- Heat issues may limit long-form recording, affecting extended shooting sessions.
4.DJI Action 2
- Snap Into Your Environment – Action 2’s innovative magnetic design allows you to effortlessly switch out accessories as you capture life on the go. Snap on any of Action 2’s diverse accessories and discover creative ways to film your adventure.
- Action on the Go – The ultra-compact DJI Action 2 takes up next to no room in your travel bag. With the Magnetic Lanyard and Magnetic Headband, you can effortlessly wear the lightweight camera on your head or chest as you capture the world around you.
- Footage That Speaks for Itself – Record stunningly smooth 4K/120fps [2] video with richer details than ever before. Action 2’s ultra-wide FOV lets you capture more of your surroundings as you explore.
Last update on 2024-03-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.
The DJI Action 2 introduces a fresh perspective to action camera design with its modular construction and magnetic mounting points, allowing for versatile placement in tight spaces where traditional action cameras may struggle. Additionally, the included pendant necklace mount enables users to utilize the camera as a wearable body cam, further expanding its functionality. With strong video quality, including 4K120 recording capabilities for action and slow-motion shots, the Action 2 proves to be a formidable competitor in the market.
The DJI Action 2 is an excellent choice for individuals seeking a compact, wearable camera for documenting travel logs and adventures. Its competitive video features rival those of GoPros, while its sleek industrial design appeals to style-conscious influencers.
Pros
- Compact, portable form factor makes it ideal for on-the-go use.
- Features magnetic mount and snap-on accessories for easy attachment.
Cons
- Front screen option increases the overall price.
- Overheating can be a concern during prolonged use.
5.DJI Osmo Action 4
- Impeccable Image Quality, Day or Night – Experience stunning image clarity and unparalleled low-light performance with the 4K action camera’s large 1/1.3-inch sensor, capturing every adventure in breathtaking detail from dawn to dusk.
- Vivid, True-to-Life Colors – Elevate your footage using 10-bit and D-Log M Color Performance to capture dazzling effects in golden sunrises and vibrant sunsets. Impress your audience with the action camera’s vivid brilliance.
- Long-Lasting Power, Even in Extreme Cold – Tackle low temperatures of -20°C (-4°F) and record up to 150 minutes non-stop with this reliable action camera, ensuring every thrilling moment is captured in the harshest conditions.
Last update on 2024-03-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.
The DJI Osmo Action 4 stands out for its utilization of a large Type 1/1.3 format image sensor, delivering crisp video quality even in low-light conditions, surpassing the performance of the GoPro Hero12 in this aspect. While the Osmo’s pixel count may not match that of the Hero 12, it still supports impressive video resolutions of up to 4K120 or 1080p240, along with 10MP snapshots. Additionally, its noteworthy features include a 75-minute battery life, dual touch screens, and a waterproof rating of 59 feet.
The Osmo Action 4 appeals to adventurers who often explore in low-light environments. Its front touch screen proves convenient for self-recording, and its robust build quality ensures durability even during rugged use.
Pros
- Wide-angle lens paired with excellent digital stabilization ensures smooth and steady footage.
- Functions as a webcam for versatile usage scenarios.
Cons
- Quick-release mount may be prone to loss due to its design.
Buying Guide: The Best Action Cameras for 2024
Do Action Cameras Need 4K?
The video resolution of a camera should be taken into account first. These days, 4K resolution is the least needed, and the top models provide more than twice that amount. For example, the GoPro Hero12 Black supports 5.3K.
Examine the available frame rates next, which are stated in frames per second (fps). Action cameras can capture at up to 240 frames per second (fps), while ultra-budget models might only record at 30. The latter is good for normal playback, but when you wish to slow down film in editing to create dramatic situations, frame rate becomes more important. Recordings at 240 frames per second can be seamlessly played back at a quarter of their original pace, for example. Choose a camera that offers a 24 frames per second capture option if you want a theatrical effect.
The Best Action Cameras With Wide Lenses and 360-Degree Video
The lens on the majority of action cameras has an incredibly wide field of vision. As a result, fish-eye distortion is likely to occur, particularly if you mount it extremely near to the subject of the video. However, more recent versions automatically eliminate this effect. Additionally, some cameras allow you to choose a smaller recording angle to prevent distortion right away.
Though fewer than at the height of the 360-degree video craze, some entries offer two lenses enabling spherical video capture. The cameras that made it through are dual-purpose, use software to output video on flat screens and virtual reality headsets. The GoPro Max movie above demonstrates how you can alter footage in unique ways with software tools.
Which Action Camera Should You Get?
To find out where each gadget stands in the field, we’ve shot hours of video with many of the top competitors. Performance and usability should ultimately determine your decision.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the 4K action camera market in 2024 offers a diverse range of options catering to various user needs and preferences. The GoPro Hero12 Black emerges as the top choice with its cutting-edge features, including high-resolution recording, advanced stabilization, and a waterproof design. DJI Action 2 stands out for its modular design and strong video quality, making it suitable for adventurous users seeking versatile mounting options. The Insta360 X3 excels in capturing immersive 360-degree footage and provides powerful editing tools for creative expression. Meanwhile, the DJI Osmo Action 4 impresses with its low-light performance and rugged build, ideal for nighttime adventurers. Lastly, the GoPro Hero10 Black offers budget-friendly performance without compromising on quality, making it a reliable option for cost-conscious consumers. Overall, whether you’re an extreme sports enthusiast, a vlogger, or an outdoor adventurer, there’s a 4K action camera to suit your needs in 2024.