The Best Advanced Action Cameras
The world of video content creation has grown by leaps and bounds in the last few decades, and camera technology has grown along with it. Cameras aren’t as bulky as they used to be, and now you can get a quality one that’s just as adventurous as you are. Modern-day action cameras can be virtually life-proof, and most shoot in 4k definition. Whether you want to bring it along on a simple camping trip in the mountains or swimming with sharks in the Caribbean, we’ve narrowed down the best advanced action cameras so you can record it all.
What to Look For
When narrowing down the best advanced action cameras on the market, we considered durability, video quality, overall features, and price. For example, if you want a well-rounded camera that’s chocked-full of features and accessories, the GoPro HERO11 black accessory bundle is a great option. If you want something that’s a little more affordable but still has its fair share of features, the AKASO V50X Native 4K30fps WiFi action camera is a great bargain buy. Read on to see all our top picks and find the action camera that’s right for you.
GoPro HERO11 Black Accessory Bundle
A modern classic
GoPro is a classic when it comes to action cameras, and for good reason. Their intuitive design and game-changing durability put them on the map and made them one of the most mainstream action cameras available. Even though they’ve been evolving over time, their newer additions still live up to their impressive reputation. With the GoPro Hero11, they offer the newest and most high-end features including their award-winning video stabilization, great picture resolution, detailed slo-mo, and all kinds of extras. It may be pricey, but this camera provides durability and quality that don’t disappoint.
Pros:
- Video can be played in 8X slo-mo
- HyperSmooth 5.0 Stabilization
- Comes with plenty of accessories including a head strap
- 5.3K video at 60FPS
- Offers several different aspect ratios
Cons:
- Pricier than other options
AKASO V50X Native 4K30fps WiFi Action Camera
Don't break the bank
It can be hard to find a decent action camera with advanced features for a reasonable price, but if you’re shopping on a budget, look no further. Don’t be fooled by the price tag; this affordable action camera from Akaso offers plenty of premium features and can meet the competition head-on. It’s capable of video stabilization, 4K resolution, 60FPS video, and adjustable viewing angles, all of which are features that would feel at home in most higher-end models. Best of all, you can activate distortion calibration to compensate for wide viewing angles, so your video looks natural even in ultra-wide shots. For the price, this quality is virtually unbeatable.
Pros:
- Touch screen functionality
- Simple capture controls
- Battery life up to 180 minutes
- Distortion calibration can compensate for wide angles
Cons:
- Audio quality is sub-par
GoPro HERO8 Black Bundle
Back to basics
Although not as fresh-faced as its brand-new brother, the Hero11, the GoPro Hero8 is still a full-fledged action camera with plenty of features that give GoPro its renowned reputation. It shoots in 4K, has slo-mo features, image stabilization, different lens options, and impressive waterproof durability. You can even shoot time-lapse videos to showcase your adventure in a compact project. Best of all, it’s more affordable than the newer GoPro models, so it’s a great way for a beginner to get their hands on a GoPro without breaking the bank.
Pros:
- Impact-resistant lens
- Easy-access side door for batteries
- Waterproof down to 60 meters
- TimeWarp 2.0 functionality for time-lapse videos
- Four digital lens options
Cons:
- May not work well in low-light scenarios
DJI Osmo Action 3 Standard Outdoor Action Camera
Freeze frame
If you’re planning on taking a trip to the mountains any time soon, this action camera from DJI is the perfect pairing for a cold-weather adventure. This durable action camera is fit for temperatures as low as negative 20 degrees Celsius, meaning that it can function in the cold much better than other action cameras. You can also capture stunning 4K video in 10-bit color depth for up to one billion available colors on screen. It comes with a protective frame for extra durability, so you can keep shredding the mountain even if you stumble and fall. With all its built-in features for incredible image quality and stabilization, it rivals even the most impressive competitors.
Pros:
- 10-bit color depth
- Can record in temperatures as low as negative 20 degrees Celsius
- Quick-release mounting design
- Comes with a protective frame
- Includes front and back touchscreens
Cons:
- Wireless mic receivers will block the power switch when in use
insta360 ONE X2 360 Degree Waterproof Action Camera
Get the shot
If you’re a content creator that’s looking for a convenient way to record videos in all kinds of different scenarios, look no further. This versatile camera can do it all. It’s compact, so it’s perfect for bringing along on all your adventures, and it also comes with a selfie stick for getting the perfect shot angle. Better yet, the selfie stick can edit itself out of your shot in the app, so it looks like a floating drone shot. This camera can even shoot in 360-degree angles for an ultra-wide shot that shows all sides. For portability, editing, and getting the perfect view, this camera is a game-changer for content creators.
Pros:
- Capture 360-degree shots
- Four mics for multi-directional audio
- The invisible selfie stick removes itself from your edit
- The app provides AI editing features
Cons:
- Transferring files to and from the app can be a painstaking process
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use action cameras as regular cameras for vlogs and Youtube videos?
Yes, these cameras normally have great video quality so there’s nothing stopping you from using it as a regular video camera. Some action cameras use a built-in fish-eye lens effect to get ultra-wide shots, so they may not work as well for regular vlog-style videos. However, in terms of picture quality and ease of use, they’re perfectly capable of being used as a regular camera.
Are all action cameras waterproof?
In theory, they should be. As action cameras, they’re designed to hold up to all kinds of abuse from Mother Nature including dirt, mud, debris, and water. While their individual capabilities may vary, all action cameras should be waterproof at least to a certain degree. Some are waterproof until a certain depth, while others are more water-resistant.
About the Author
Why Trust Us
With the constantly shifting landscape in the world of technology, GameRevolution seeks to provide gamers and tech-enthusiasts with the information they need to select the right products for their needs. Since 1996, our experts have used their knowledge on all the latest gadgets – everything from headphones to standing desks – to help millions of people navigate specs and answer common questions.