The Best Action Cameras For Adventures
If you like to live on the wild side but you’re having a hard time filming your adventures, you may need an action camera to document your trips. Filming with your phone is convenient, but it can break if it falls or gets wet. Unlike phones, action cameras are notoriously durable and they’re meant to withstand all kinds of exposure to the elements. If you’re in the market for an action camera of your own, we’ve rounded up the best of the best to help you find the one that’s right for you.
What to Look For
When narrowing down the best action cameras for adventures, we considered durability, picture quality, overall camera features, and price. For example, if you want a rugged camera with unmatched video quality, the GoPro HERO9 Black shoots in 5K definition for a stunning picture. If you want something that’s built to take underwater, the LeadEdge action camera comes with a red filter that can make underwater colors more realistic. Read on to see all our top picks and find the action camera that’s right for your adventures.
GoPro HERO9 Black
A modern classic
When it comes to action cameras, GoPro is no stranger to the limelight. Their rugged designs and innovative features have made them quite the reputation, and this Hero9 model is no exception. This action camera shoots in 5K resolution for image quality that’s leaps and bounds ahead of the competition. It also has intuitive controls to make it easier to capture the perfect shot, like SuperPhoto technology that automatically chooses the best settings for the moment. It has a simple layout, a large touchscreen, and plenty of battery life to last on your adventure. In terms of picture quality and overall features, this action camera is a sure winner.
Pros:
- Shoots 5K video
- SuperPhoto technology automatically picks the best settings
- Large rear touchscreen
- Bigger 1720mAh battery
- HyperSmooth 3.0 image stabilization
Cons:
- If you accidentally touch the screen while in use it may change the settings
AKASO Brave 4 4K 20MP WiFi Action Camera
Don't break the bank
If you’re working with a tight budget but you don’t want to compromise on features, this affordable action camera from Akaso may be just what you’re looking for. Despite boasting a low price tag, this action camera has a lot of the same features that high-end options have like image stabilization, 4K video, waterproof durability, time-lapse video, zooming functions, and more. On top of all those features, it also comes with a robust accessory pack that includes all kinds of different mounts. Considering everything you get, this combo pack brings you some serious bang for your buck.
Pros:
- Adjustable view angles
- Share via Wi-FI, USB, or HDMI port
- Two batteries for a total of up to three hours of battery life
- Comes with 19 accessories
- Great price
Cons:
- Not as user-friendly as competitors
GoPro HERO10 Black
Top of the line
If you’re looking for the best and brightest of what action cameras have to offer, look no further. This state-of-the-art model from GoPro is filled to the brim with tech-heavy features that prove to be a game-changer for creators. For starters, the Hero10 has a GP2 engine for faster processing power and better performance than ever before. It captures unbeatable 5.3K video at up to 60FPS for crisp and clear footage. It also offers features that most competitors don’t have like Hindsight, LiveBurst, Schedule Capture, Duration Capture, and live-streaming. If you want the newest features to stay ahead of the crowd, this action camera is worth the buy.
Pros:
- Faster GP2 engine processor
- 5.3K video resolution at 60FPS
- LiveBurst captures 45 frames in just a few seconds
- Capable of 8X slo-mo
- The Hindsight feature films 30 seconds before you hit the record button
Cons:
- Prone to overheating issues
COOAU 4K 20MP WiFi Action Camera
Listen up
If you’re a content creator and you film vlogs, there’s a good chance you’ll need an external microphone to get a good-quality recording of your dialogue. Built-in microphones on cameras aren’t the best, and even a simple upgrade to the most basic external mic can be a huge improvement. With this camera from COOAU, now you can have the durability of an action camera with the added audio clarity of an external mic. On top of better audio, this camera also offers features like time-lapse, self-timer, slo-mo, and more. Whether you use it for high-quality YouTube videos or just for filming your mountain biking sesh, this camera has plenty to offer.
Pros:
- Comes with an external microphone
- Offers time-lapse videos
- Features a self-timer mode
- You can adjust ISO and exposure settings
Cons:
- Video stabilization is sub-par
LeadEdge Action Camera
Below deck
If you’re going scuba diving or swimming in the Bahamas, this underwater action camera from LeadEdge can help your photos and videos come out more beautiful than ever. This camera comes with a special red filter that, when used underwater, automatically makes colors look more accurate. Normal action cameras may make the water look hazy and dull, but with the filter, colors are more likely to pop. On top of all that, it has several different recording modes, it shoots in 4K, and it even comes with a remote control for easy filming on the go. For underwater filming, this bargain is almost unbeatable.
Pros:
- Comes with a waterproof case
- Features a red filter for accurate color
- Offers a loop recording mode
- Comes with remote control
- Great low price
Cons:
- There’s a 15-minute limit on recording time
Frequently Asked Questions
Can all action cameras be attached to helmets?
Yes, most can, but they require a special attachment. Some use a headband attachment, while others can use a suction cup attachment to stick directly on the helmet. There are many attachments on the market, so attaching your camera to any piece of gear is just a matter of finding the right accessory to attach it.
Do I need to use an external microphone with my action camera?
That depends on how important the audio is to your recording. If you’re recording a vlog or an interview, you may need an external mic to get a better recording of the dialogue. If not, the built-in microphone should be fine. Most action cameras don’t have very high-quality microphones, but even the most basic ones can do the trick for scenarios like mountain biking, underwater swimming, snowboarding, and any intense activities.
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