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

When you think of the best action cameras, you think of GoPro, right? Well, it's true that GoPro established conventional action camera design, but the best GoPro cameras are now but one choice in a wider world – and at the moment we're not even sure they're top of our list! There are alternatives that are equally or more compelling in their own way.

DJI, Insta360, and Akaso cameras offer features GoPro cameras don't, or at prices, GoPros can't match. Now, to make the best choice, and to get the best value, it's worth reading about the choices.

Not only that, but we're no longer sure the newest GoPro is the best choice for most people either. No, we've not forgotten the Hero 12 Black – but you will have to scroll down!

In any case, let's get to where the action is (sorry), with our top picks of the best action cams right now…

Top Picks

The best action cameras in 2024

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.

Best Overall

(Image credit: Future)
Best action camera for low light work

Specifications

Weight: 145g
Waterproof: 16m
4K video: up to 60fps
1080: up to 240fps
720: up to 240fps
Stills resolution: 20MP
Battery life: 1-3hrs estimate

Reasons to buy

+
Dual touchscreen control
+
Good vlogging tool in vertical or horizontal
+
Best low-light performance
+
10-Bit D-Log M

Reasons to avoid

-
12-megapixel images and 4K maximum video resolution
-
No period of cloud backup included
-
Vertical format use requires a frame
-
Voice control could be better

For most adventurer-creators, the Osmo Action 4 is the perfect balance of quality and price. Stabilized 4K video looks great and the camera can take a lot – not just rough and tumble but temperature extremes and it's waterproof to 16m without a case. Best of all, it has a larger image sensor than any other camera on the list, so it is better in lower light, making it more flexible.

DJI did have an interesting experiment with modular design, now seemingly abandoned, with the Action 2, but they do retain powerful magnetic mounts which can even partially survive the heat of an oven (we tried accidentally – see our full review). 

Like the more famous competition, DJI has high-quality horizon balancing and image stabilization, which has improved on the Action 3. The resolution limit is 4K, but in practice, this is the ideal resolution for action (and the limit of almost all TVs). More useful is the 120fps capability (or 240fps at 1080P).

The fact that Action 4’s isn’t interwoven with subscription software is one we wholeheartedly appreciate, too, but GoPro seem to finally growing out of this.

Read our full DJI Osmo Action 4 review for more depth.

Best 360 action camera

Editor's Choice

(Image credit: Rod Lawton/Digital Camera World)
Best 360 action camera

Specifications

Weight: 118g
Waterproof: 10m
5.7K video: up to 30fps
4K video: up to 60fps
3.6K single lens (and lower) video: up to 60fps
Stills resolution: 72MP
Battery life: 81 minutes (lab tested 5.7K video)

Reasons to buy

+
Phone-based editing
+
Big touchscreen
+
Familiar size and shape

Reasons to avoid

-
We wish GPS was built into
-
5.7K isn't much when re-framing

There are times when handling even an action camera's wide-angle lens becomes a problem, and that's where a 360-degree action camera can step in. With two back-to-back lenses and enough smarts to eliminate a selfie stick from the footage, this almost magic camera can capture an image from a point within reach looking any direction you see fit.

I tried it with the bike attachment – which holds the camera a little way in front of the bike, over the front wheel – and was amazed at the footage which makes it look like I'm cycling toward a perfectly controlled drone. Better still, by syncing with my phone I could draw GPS data and have it overlaid, in the form of a speedometer, by the Insta360 app before sharing.

The only real worry is how naked those glass lenses are when the camera is in use; the joy of re-positioning the camera angle after the fact can be hours of fun. 5.7K is good enough for sharing, but more resolution would help pro work.

Read our full Insta 360 X3 review for more details

Best GoPro for most users

Editor's Choice

(Image credit: Basil Kronfli / Digital Camera World)
The best GoPro for most people is not the newest

Specifications

Weight: 4.5 oz / 127 g
Waterproof: 33.0' / 10.0 m
5K video: up to 60fps
4K video: up to 120fps
2.7K video: up to 240fps
Stills resolution: 27MP
Battery life: 2-3hrs estimate

Reasons to buy

+
Captures versatile 8:7 content
+
Excellent image stabilization
+
Horizon locking at up to 5.3K
+
Simplified interface for beginners

Reasons to avoid

-
Lowlight video isn't great
-
Front display is not touch sensitive
-
GoPro membership required to unlock features

Despite the Hero 11 Black not being the newest model, GoPro dropped the GPS functionality in the newest model which is something of a shame. looking like every other GoPro since 2019, the steadily upgraded hardware and software are unarguably impressive. The new, almost square sensor is supremely versatile, the camera's software has been simplified successfully, and GoPro's companion app, Quik has also been improved. 

With best-in-class stabilization, great-looking video (until things get dimly lit or dark), and some fun new modes like light painting, the Hero 11 Black is an excellent addition to the line. The Hero 11 Black's 8:7 aspect ratio is also a standout highlight for content creators. Able to shoot in 5.3K resolution, 8:7 video at up to 30fps, its footage can be losslessly cropped to create new 4K portrait, landscape, and square clips from a single video.

On top of 8:7 video, the Hero 11 Black captures 5.3K resolution video at 60 fps, 4K resolution video at 120 fps, or 2.7K resolution at 240 fps. You can also grab 27MP stills from 5.3K video. Overall this is particularly appealing to folks who use multiple social platforms, nothing else can do quite what the 11 Black can.

Read our full GoPro Hero 11 Black review for more details and GoPro Subscription explained: what you get, and is it worth it?

Best action cam for editors

A photo of the GoPro Hero 12 Black action camera

(Image credit: Basil Kronfli)
The GoPro Hero 12 Black adds with one hand and takes with the other

Specifications

Weight: 5.43 oz / 154 g (with battery in)
Waterproof: 33.0' / 10.0 m
5K video: up to 60fps
4K video: up to 120fps
2.7K video: up to 240fps
Stills resolution: 27MP
Battery life: 2-3hrs estimate

Reasons to buy

+
Captures versatile 8:7 content
+
Excellent image stabilization
+
Horizon locking at up to 5.3K
+
Bluetooth audio recording

Reasons to avoid

-
Lowlight video isn't great
-
Front display is not touch-sensitive
-
No GPS (unlike last generation) 

With a relentless release schedule coming out every year just like the iPhone, you might expect more and more features every year, but this year the GoPro has surprised us. They actually took something away – the much loved (but only by a few we're told) GPS. This allowed to you to record motion metadata to extrapolate speed information. If you want that, look back to the GoPro Hero 11 Black (which, for this reason, remains our favourite GoPro).

The 27-megapixel camera, on the other hand, has remained the same – the adaptable 8:7 sensor with 5.3K60 and the lens with a mod allowing up to 177-degree field of view. It's good, though it doesn't love low light any more than the Hero 11 Black.

There are some advantages to the Hero 12, however, though they are a bit niche. The internal rearrangement has made it last longer before it overheats. Bluetooth audio support means you can narrate your action from headphones with built-in microphones like AirPods, and pros will appreciate the arrival of Timecode Sync and GP-Log and LUT support.

Please read our full GoPro Hero 12 Black review.

Best mini action camera

Recommended

(Image credit: Jamie Carter/Digital Camera World)
Super compact and durable option for helmet cam and FPV

Specifications

Weight: 133g
Dimensions: 52mm x 38mm 51mm
Waterproof: 10m/33 feet
Stills resolution: 24.7MP
Video resolution: 4K at 120fps, 5.3K at 60fps
Memory: MicroSD
Mount: GoPro style (folding)
Battery life: 2-3 hours

Reasons to buy

+
Up to 5.3K video
+
4K at 120fps and 2.7K at 240fps
+
Dual mounting points

Reasons to avoid

-
No touchscreen
-
Still bigger than Hero Session
-
Battery can't be swapped

With no displays and a smaller form factor than the Hero 11, this version of the GoPro is well suited to those needing to save on size and weight – it's especially useful for FPV drone pilots or cyclists who don't want something pulling their helmets down. Since few extreme sports will actually allow a lot of time for shot composition, many will have little reason to opt for a more complicated device – video can be reviewed afterward using the GoPro Quik app, or the card downloaded to a computer for editing.

Though we're no fans of the subscription system GoPro is so keen to push users toward, we can't deny the quality of the device and the common sense behind things like the fold-out action-camera fittings and the ability to run continuously from a USB-C power pack.

Read our full GoPro Hero 11 Black Mini review for more details

Best budget 4K action camera

(Image credit: Jamie Carter / Digital Camera World)
You don't need to break the bank for a 4K action camera

Specifications

Weight: 130g
4K video: At 60fps
1080p video: At 60/30fps
720p video: 240/120/60fps
Stills resolution: 20 megapixels
Battery life: 60 minute per charge

Reasons to buy

+
Smooth 4K
+
Responsive touchscreen
+
Lens cover
+
Built-in tripod thread
+
Lots of accessories

Reasons to avoid

-
4K lacks detail
-
A little heavy
-
Average image stabilization
-
No external mic support
-
No 24p/25p frame rates

If you’re looking for one of the best GoPro alternatives(opens in new tab) for all-round basic use then the Wolfgang GA400 action camera (US$119.99 / £119.99) should be on your radar. 

Boasting 4K 60fps video and up to 20-megapixel stills, it appears to match its much pricier rivals both on resolution and by having a natively waterproof chassis. It’s loaded with accessories and easy to use yet it lacks some crucially important characteristics that flagship action cameras alone offer.

With good quality, if imperfect, 4K video and good 20MP stills, the GA400 makes a great alternative to one of the big brands of action camera if you’re after results a level below the cinematic quality offered by the leading action camera brands. At this mid-range level, the build quality is excellent and the touchscreen is responsive while the onscreen menus are intuitive and easy to use.

Read our full Wolfgang GA400 review for more details

Best modular action camera

(Image credit: Jamie Carter / Digital Camera World)
A tiny camera that pops in and out of a flip-screen vlogging case

Specifications

Weight: 35g / 1.2oz
Waterproof: 5m
2.7K video: up to 30fps
1080p: up to 120fps
Stills resolution: 3.7MP
Battery life: 45 mins alone / 170 in ActionPod

Reasons to buy

+
Use compact or with combo unit
+
Touchscreen interface
+
Live streaming 

Reasons to avoid

-
Internal storage in camera (microSD cards need secondary unit) 
-
Resolution limited to 2.7K won't beat Osmo Action 4 or GoPro

Some action and some vlogging need a smaller camera to get closer to the action, get a near perspective, or be clipped to your clothes in a way that just doesn't draw too much attention. The tiny Go 3 is perfect – especially since, in late 2023, a matte black option was released to join the white model.

The tiny camera can fit into the ActionPod body, and is held magnetically. The case houses another battery and a 2.1-inch flip-up touchscreen. It is also, effectively, the camera's charging dock. My colleague Jamie, who tested it, did note that the f/2.2 sensor prefers better weather (who doesn't?) but versatility is what you're paying for with this ultra-lightweight camera. The built-in memory is re-assuring too (no water ingress point), and the image stabilization is good.

I've also had good experiences with Insta360 software, which has great editing features, and it's reassuring that even since release firmware updates have brought extras like the ability to use an Apple Watch as a remote, or the cam as a webcam.

Incidentally, Insta360 have even more recently taken this flip concept to a high-end 8K action camera I really like, the AcePro, while the magnetic concept was also tried by with their Osmo Action 2. That high-concept form factor, however, seems not to be being pursued by DJI while the Go 3 is very much alive.

Read our full Insta360 Go 3 review and see sample video 

Best gimbal-stabilized action camera

(Image credit: Future)
A low-lght friendly 4K camera which will keep your video smooth

Specifications

Type: Action camera with gimbal
Sensor: 1-inch
Megapixels: 9.4MP (or stitched)
Screen: 2-inch touchscreen
Max video resolution: 4K at 120fps
Mic input: Adapter or Bluetooth
Headphone jack: No

Reasons to buy

+
Top-quality stabilization
+
Excellent large screen much easier to use than predecessor
+
DJI Mic 2 Bluetooth option makes a complete vloggers kit

Reasons to avoid

-
Choosing length of grip and battery can be irritating 

Is the DJI Pocket 3 an action camera? Well, it's not rugged and waterproof, but given a lot of action cameras are used in the hand on selfie sticks, this is a sensible option to consider. It is easy to use, and has a usably big touchscreen with the third iteration. There is no questioning the superb stabilization, clever 'follow' modes, and flip-around selfie shooting.

There’s also a handy ultrawide lens attachment that, admittedly, definitely drops quality, but adds a field of view. There is also the option of buying in a combo with a DJI Mic 2 that adds a Bluetooth microphone making this an ideal tool for vlogging (the 3 built-in mics can also help cancel the ambient noise). The 1-inch sensor handled mixed and low light well in our tests too. 

That aside, the convenience, versatility, and stabilization offered by the DJI Pocket 3 can’t be overstated. After all, nothing much can do all the things it can and still slip into a jacket pocket. You can even connect wirelessly to your smartphone and get big-screen control and playback via the DJI app.

Read our full DJI Pocket 3 review for more details 

Best Budget action camera

(Image credit: Jamie Carter/Digital Camera World)
A front-screen for vlogging and a price for everyone

Specifications

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

Reasons to buy

+
Front LCD screen
+
4K video capture
+
6-axis stabilization
+
Low price

Reasons to avoid

-
Needs to be put in case to be fully waterproof

If you need a front screen for vlogging – or to ensure you stay in the shot as you film yourself skiing down a slope with a selfie stick – then this is a bargain buy. 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 shooting and 20-megapixel stills - plus a capable 6-axis image stabilization system. There is a good range of accessories in the box too - including a second battery, mounts, and underwater housing. Note, though, that unlike with many rivals you need to use this housing before you take your action cam into the water.

Read our full Akaso Brave 7 LE review for more details

FAQs

What is an action camera?

Action cameras is a catch-all term for those designed to be used in rough conditions to capture the action from scuba diving, skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking, and other activities. Because the cameras are rugged, and usually allow for slow-motion and time-lapse, there are plenty of other uses too.

What is the best low light action camera?

Good question. Cameras designed to capture fast-moving images – especially slow-motion – keep their shutters open for very short periods, which isn't good for low light. The other solution, a big image sensor, means you need a big heavy camera and lens which is also not ideal here. So, as a rule, no action cameras are brilliant at shooting in very low light. That said, the GoPro Hero11 Black has made some notable strides in that area, as has the DJI Osmo Action 3.

Are action cameras good for photography?

Not always. It's easy to knock a small camera when shooting, so you'll need a good support. Secondly some don't even support still shooting – including the GoPro Hero 11 Black Mini. In bright conditions it might be preferable to keep shooting video and select stills in post, but it's worth remembering that this may be forced upon you!

Is a GoPro better than a phone?

Although some of the latest phones, like the iPhone 14, have image stabilization like a GoPro or other action camera, do you really want to risk breaking your phone? Action cameras have a rugged and compact build which makes them harder to break, and GoPro, for example, has a Pro Tune feature to help get a more professional looking image, too.

Introduction to action cameras

DJI is perhaps GoPro's best-known rival, but certainly not the only one. There's a lot of crossover in this market with other areas like the best 360º cameras, and the newly updated modular Insta360 One RS Twin Edition includes both an action camera module and a 360 module – it's two cameras in one!

Don't forget that there are older models (back to GoPro Hero 8) on sale at reduced prices. Or, for a completely different take on the concept of action cameras, check out the amazing offerings from Insta360 also on our list. We thought we'd also throw you a curve ball with the DJI Pocket 3. It's not a rugged go-anywhere camera like a GoPro, but it's a pocket-sized gimbal camera with stabilization, 'follow' modes, and image quality way beyond what its size suggests.

These action cameras aren't the only way to record your adventures. For a step up in quality, check out our guide to the best cameras for vlogging.

But for now, let's get started with our top picks of the best action cams right now…

How we test action cameras

We test cameras both in real-world shooting scenarios and, for DSLRs and mirrorless cameras, in carefully controlled lab conditions. Our lab tests measure resolution, dynamic range, and signal-to-noise ratio. Resolution is measured using ISO resolution charts, dynamic range is measured using DxO Analyzer test equipment and DxO Analyzer is also used for noise analysis across the camera's ISO range. 

More important – especially with action cameras – is real-world testing. We compare results against similar models that we have tested in similar conditions. I like cycling, for example.

One reason real-world testing is so important is only by testing in situations with real action can we get a sense of how the image stabilization systems work. It also offers a good idea of how the image handles light levels.

How to choose an action camera

Choosing an action camera involves balancing several factors. One is, inevitably, price. Others to keep your eye on are:

  • Subscription – This is a modern issue; GoPro (and, for now, only GoPro) will seek to charge you for a cloud service that unlocks some features. Are these features worth it to you, and are there better alternatives that won't incur an ongoing cost? DJI's Osmo Action 3 becomes very tempting at this point.
  • 360-degree – We have a complete list of 360-degree cameras, of which the Insta360 X3 is probably the most accessible. It's an alternative worth considering; the lenses are more exposed, but you capture footage all around the camera.
  • Control – Do you need a screen to control the camera, or will you be happy using your phone? Will you have to take gloves on and off to start shooting while keeping your feet in snowboard bindings?
  • Stills mode – Not every camera has one, so will you need it?
  • Resolution – Numbers above 4K are impressive, though you'll likely end up editing down to 4K, where most better TVs are. It still helps have some room to crop though! 
  • Slow-motion – If you'll want to slow down some cool moments of action, see what the highest frame rate available is. 240fps will let you go half the speed of 120fps.

Read more:

The 30 best GoPro accessories
The best waterproof cameras
The best 360 cameras
The best travel cameras

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