The best action cameras in 2024: capture life's adventures, wherever they take you!

man in red coat stook on a snowy mountain top with a gopro
(Image credit: GoPro)

When I think of a tough little camera built to capture action, GoPro naturally comes to mind, doesn't it? It's so ingrained that I was out testing a competing brand and my then 7-year-old son called it "a GoPro".

It has to be said, though, that GoPro may have pioneered the action camera concept, and dominated the space for years – they haven’t always held the top spot.

They have, in many respects, been edged out on tech grounds by DJI, and also face touch and different competition from Insta360 who offer (as the name implies) 360-degree cameras which are, frankly, better than GoPro's one effort. They also offer a quite special Action Camera, on which we've seen some good deals!

Adam Juniper holding a GoPro Hero 13 Black and a DJI Action 5 Pro
Adam Juniper

Adam is a big fan of action cameras, especially for drones (he's our drone guy – and the author of bestselling books including The Drone Pilot's Handbook). He's also been known to find ways to attach them to his bike and even snowboard (no, really), plus he owns and travels with a 360-degree camera, and tests as many as he can get his hands on.

Why you can trust Digital Camera World Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out how we test.

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Test results
AttributesNotesRating
Features10-bit video, pressure sensor, large sensor, top notch image stabilization, good flat profile for pros, and both screens are touchscreen★★★★★
DesignPlain and simple design, waterproof without housing, and big usable screens – very simple, but usable. ★★★★★
Video qualityLarge sensor does the business in most situations – even caves – and processing is good if you want it. ★★★★★
ValueFor significantly less than the GoPro, offering better video and dynamic range, DJI wins here (as a premium product) unless you really want an anamorphic lens attachment!★★★★★
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Test results
AttributesNotesRating
FeaturesThe new lens mount, sensor, the return of GPS, and 400FPS option are all great features alongside a top-tier list.★★★★
DesignThe addition of a magnetic mount without dramatic alteration can be considered a triumph by long-term GoPro users with existing accessories.★★★★
Video qualityWith 5.3K with great stabilization no real issues here so long as the light is good.★★★★★
ValueWhile it's a premium price, this feels like it's coming together as a premium product again after a less than perfect year (but we still don't like the idea of subscription features).★★★★
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Test results
AttributesNotesRating
FeaturesThere are a lot of possibilities to play with standard designs can't match★★★★★
DesignDual lenses less vulnerable thanks to removable guards★★★★
Video quality8K is much better than 5.7K 360, but 'aimed' cameras are still better and low light isn't perfect★★★★
ValueEither a great deal (if you want 360) or a pricey action cam!★★★★
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Test results
AttributesNotesRating
FeaturesLove the GPS, and the 8:7 sensor is handy for social creators★★★★
DesignIt's something of a standard, though the front screen is a monitor only★★★★
Video qualityWith 5.3K (and10-bit log for pros) ★★★★
ValueYou get a better deal on this than the newer model (which lacks the GPS)★★★★★
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Test results
AttributesNotesRating
FeaturesEverything you could wish for.★★★★★
DesignThis is brilliant and innovative.★★★★★
Video qualityFor me, I think there is a slight tendency toward saturation, but the detail is spectacular.★★★★
ValueIt's tough to say the price is entirely as good as some of the other premium action cameras, but you do get extra features.★★★
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Test results
AttributesNotesRating
FeaturesThe 8:7 sensor is handy for social creators★★★★
DesignRugged design is not to be argued with, but it feels a bit 'big'★★★★
Video qualityWith 5.3K (and10-bit log for pros) quality it great★★★★
ValueNot a cheap option, but for some niches it works★★★★
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Test results
AttributesNotesRating
FeaturesDual screens are great in a value camera★★★★
DesignGood looking but not natively waterproof★★★
Video qualityDecent video with stabilization (though not. at DJI/GoPro standarrds)★★★
ValueGreat for vloggers able to handle sound separately★★★★★
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Test results
AttributesNotesRating
FeaturesTop notch image stabilization, good flat profile for pros, and both screens are touchscreen★★★★★
DesignPlain and simple design, waterproof without housing★★★★★
Video qualityLarge sensor does the business in most situations – even caves!★★★★★
ValueFor significantly less than the GoPro, but arguably better image quality and with a better app and dual touchscreens the DJI wins here (as a premium product)★★★★★
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Test results
AttributesNotesRating
FeaturesFlexibility is the main feature★★★★
DesignA brilliant solution to a relatively niche problem (that might be getting less niche)★★★★★
Video qualityWithout 4K and a small sensor it's good, but could be better★★★★
ValueSince in-body this is more or less. anormal 4K action camera, this is quite a good value cam from one perspective!★★★★
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Test results
AttributesNotesRating
FeaturesGimbal and excellent app control adds a lot★★★★★
DesignRobust and adaptable core feels sturdy but provides good screen size★★★★★
Video qualityThe relatively large sensor is impressive★★★★
ValueAs many, this seems expensive, but offers good quality and options if its what you need★★★★
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Test results
AttributesNotesRating
FeaturesAtop standard shooting, full range of features like starlapse, and even gesture and voice control★★★★★
DesignSlightly sacrificing size to provide a big folding touchscreen will make a lot of sense to many★★★★
Video qualityThe relatively large sensor is impressive, and 8K is impressive (if you need it!)★★★★★
ValueDo you really need 8K? Here is the device's main problem!★★★★
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Adam Juniper
Managing Editor

With over 20 years of expertise as a tech journalist, Adam brings a wealth of knowledge across a vast number of product categories, including timelapse cameras, home security cameras, NVR cameras, photography books, webcams, 3D printers and 3D scanners, borescopes, radar detectors… and, above all, drones. 

Adam is our resident expert on all aspects of camera drones and drone photography, from buying guides on the best choices for aerial photographers of all ability levels to the latest rules and regulations on piloting drones. 

He is the author of a number of books including The Complete Guide to Drones, The Smart Smart Home Handbook, 101 Tips for DSLR Video and The Drone Pilot's Handbook