Surfing, skydiving or something equally action-packed: capturing adventurous video requires the best action camera. What that actually means for you depends on what and how you like to shoot. You might favor a rugged build over outright image quality, or prefer something capable of cinematic video. We’ve put together this guide to help you work that out.
If we had to choose an action camera for ourselves, it would be the GoPro Hero 13 Black. Based on our in-depth testing, we think it's the most versatile GoPro flagship to date, especially when paired with new Lens Mods and ND filters. But that doesn't mean it's right for you. Take the Akaso Brave 8 Lite: a bargain with two screens, we think it's the best cheap action camera.
Our round-up covers a full range of action cameras, including a few older models that represent excellent value. Every spec has been put to the test by our expert team, in the kind of conditions you’d expect to use an action camera – all so that you can be sure our recommendations are the real deal.
The quick list
If you want a shortcut to the best action cameras, you can use the quick list below for an instant overview of the top options. If you’d like to know more about a specific model, the link beneath each entry will take you to our in-depth summary.
Best action camera overall
Not a radical upgrade, the Hero 13 Black is a 5.3K action cam that builds on previous models, with better battery life and useful new Lens Mods.
Best budget action camera
Its isn't the most robust, but the Brave 8 Lite is a compact and affordable action camera that records decent 4K video when the light is good.
The best premium 8K action camera
Wide-angle and well-built, the Ace Pro is an 8K action cam with top performance, a flip-up screen and excellent image quality in most conditions.
Best Hero 13 alternative
A capable GoPro rival, the Action 5 Pro is a tough action camera with excellent features and solid battery life, and it works well with the DJI Mic 2.
Best 360-degree action camera
Using two lenses to shoot in full 360, the GoPro Max lets you shoot first and frame later, with excellent six-mic audio to go with your video.
The best modular action camera
A tiny 4K action camera with magnetic mounting and a modular Action Pod attachment, the Go 3S lets you capture unique creative perspectives.
Best tough action camera
A rugged compact for all conditions, the TG-7 is a practical and reliable family camera with a surprisingly versatile set of photography features.
Best value GoPro
If you’d like a capable GoPro but don’t need the very latest flagship features, Hero 10 Black represents excellent value, with the ability to shoot 4K/120p video.
Tim is TechRadar's Cameras Editors, with more than 15 years in the photo video industry. As a freelance photographer and tech journalist, Tim's has tested many of the best action cameras over the last 10 years, including GoPro flagships and challengers from the likes of Insta360. As a result, he has a deep knowledge of what makes a good action camera. Tim notes, "while GoPro remains the brand to beat in the action camera market, Insta360 is offering serious competition. Its latest model, the Ace Pro, is the first action camera to record 8K video. DJI's Osmo Action series is keeping things interesting, too."
The best action camera in 2024
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Below you'll find full write-ups for each of the best action cameras in our list. We've tested each one extensively, so you can be sure that our recommendations can be trusted.
The best action camera overall
GoPro Hero 13 Black sample video
✅ You want a versatile action cam: Support for optional Lens Mods and ND filters make this a flexible tool to shoot with.
✅ You want cinematic video: New color profiles and slow-mo modes complement an arsenal of useful modes for filmmakers.
❌ You don’t need to swap lenses: If you don’t need the option to swap in new Lens Mods, previous editions are better value.
❌ You shoot a lot in low light: If you’re recording after dark, the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro delivers better results than the 13 Black.
Like most recent GoPro flagships, the Hero 13 Black isn’t a radical upgrade from its predecessor. It has the same sensor, video resolution and useful 8:7 aspect ratio, the same class-leading HyperSmooth stabilization and the same waterproofing specs as the Hero 12 Black – and the Hero 11 Black before it. So if you already own either of those perfectly capable action cameras, it isn’t necessarily worth upgrading. But based on our in-depth testing, there are a few upgrades that make the Hero 13 Black our top pick.
Chief among them is a new range of Lens Mods and ND filters. These attach to a redesigned mount on the 13 Black that detects which accessory is attached and adjusts settings accordingly, instantly unlocking creative shooting options. In our review, we also praised the addition of magnetic mounting, as well as improved battery life and heat dissipation. Burst Slo-Mo mode also gives you the option to shoot 400fps at 720p, although clips are slow to process. While these improvements aren’t revolutionary, they all add up to make the Hero 13 Black the most complete GoPro action camera to date.
Read our in-depth GoPro Hero 13 Black review
The best budget action camera
Akaso Brave 8 Lite sample video
✅ You're on a tight budget: The Akaso Brave 8 Lite offers fantastic features and value for a reasonable price.
✅ You want dual screens: Despite its low cost, the Brave 8 Lite features front and rear displays to help with framing.
❌ You need reliable stabilization: In shaky scenarios, image stabilization struggles to produce usable footage.
❌ You shoot a lot in low light: Video quality drops off significantly in low-light conditions, with a lot of noise.
A cheaper, lighter version of the Akaso Brave 8, the Lite is an affordable action camera for buyers on a budget. In our review, we noted that the cost savings can be felt in the flimsy plastic construction. Yet we also commented positively on its modern design, compact dimensions and lightweight build. Other takeaways from our testing include the smartphone app, which we found easier to use than the camera’s own interface. In ideal lighting, 4K video footage also proved vivid and accurate, if a little high in contrast.
That’s not the case in lower lighting, where we found that the sensor struggles, with a large amount of noise negatively affecting image quality. Stabilization was disappointing too, with the Brave 8 Lite failing to smooth out camera shake while walking or cycling. At 150 minutes of 1080p footage, battery life wasn’t remarkable either. Yet while its video quality won’t worry premium flagships, we still think the Brave 8 Lite offers fantastic value, with a solid set of specs that’s tough to beat for the price.
Read our in-depth Akaso Brave 8 Lite review
The best premium 8K action camera
Insta360 Ace Pro sample video
✅ You want an 8K action camera: Not everyone will need it, but the Ace Pro is the only action camera capable of outputting 8K footage.
✅ You like the idea of a flip screen: The 2.4-inch rear display flips up to face the front, giving you a high-res framing option in both directions.
❌ You’re on a budget: There’s no denying its top-tier specs, but the Insta360 Ace Pro also demands an asking price that’s the highest in this list.
❌ You want the lightest option: 179.8g is hardly heavyweight, but it is more than the Hero 12 Black (154g) and the DJI Osmo Action 4 (145g).
The Insta360 Ace Pro is the first action cam to offer 8K video. That resolution will be overkill for many, as will its 48MP stills, and the high price tag they demand. But if you want rugged 8K recording, the Ace Pro is the way to go. Physically, our review found the Ace Pro nicely built. It’s heftier than its competitors, hitting the scales at 179.8g, which makes it feel substantial in the hand. We also rate its flip-up display, which hinges at the top to deliver a selfie experience that’s more responsive than GoPro and DJI rivals. Mounting options are plentiful, too, with a magnetic base plate for quick switching.
As you’d expect of a sensor co-engineered with Leica, image quality is superb. Our tests found results across all resolutions to be excellent, with good clarity, punchy colors and solid noise-handling in low light (aided by AI processing). Active HDR does pretty well at balancing high-contrast lighting, while FlowState and Horizon Lock stabilization are proven performers. Professional filmmakers might wish for log capture and higher 8K frame rates, but this is still a mighty impressive action camera.
Read our in-depth Insta360 Ace Pro review
The best Hero 13 alternative
DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro sample video
✅ You want a reliable action cam: Freeze-proof, waterproof to 20m and good for up to 4 hours, the Action 5 Pro is solid.
✅ You have a DJI Mic 2 for audio: Compatibility with DJI’s tiny wireless mic makes the Action 5 Pro great for voiceovers.
❌ You want the sharpest footage: 4K will be fine for most, but others offer higher-res results at up to 8K.
❌ You want perfect results after dark: SuperNight mode delivers better results than a GoPro, but it’s still average.
Breathing down the neck of GoPro’s Hero 13 Black, the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro is a feature-packed action camera that gives our top pick a good run for its money. Waterproof to 20m, it can survive at double the case-free depth of GoPro’s best. With a wider window of operating temperatures, it’s the best choice for shooting in all conditions. We also praised its interface in testing: the Action 5 Pro is small and light, with touchscreens front and rear that are sharp and clear.
While its maximum 4K resolution is bettered by others in this list, we were impressed by the dynamic range and detail displayed in test footage. We also praised the Action 5 Pro’s long battery life and reliable video stabilization in our review, as well as the ability to pair it seamlessly with the DJI Mic 2 for crisp wireless audio recording on location. Image quality does drop off in low lighting, but DJI’s SuperNight mode still produces better results than most action cameras. If you want something reliable, versatile and more affordable than the GoPro Hero 13 Black, this is your winner.
Read our in-depth DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro review
The best 360-degree action camera
GoPro Max sample video
✅ You want easy 360 video: On-camera processing and in-app reframing removes many of the pain points of 360 shooting.
✅ You want to mount up: Using the same fingers as other GoPro cameras makes the Max compatible with standard mounts.
❌ You want to shoot flat footage: Designed for 360, the Max's 2D shooting modes can't compete with single-lens rivals.
❌ You plan to shoot in low light: The Max works best in good lighting, struggling to keep things sharp when it's dark.
If you only want to record standard action camera footage at the best possible quality, the GoPro Hero 12 Black is a better choice. But if you like the sound of being able to reframe videos after they've been shot in 360 degrees – and you're looking for great audio quality – then the Max is well worth considering. GoPro's most expensive action camera uses two fisheye lenses to shoot spherical 5.6K video, which you can later crop into standard 2D video using OverCapture software.
In our review, we found that the six-microphone setup records excellent audio, if not quite up to the level of GoPro's 'shotgun mic' claims. Our tests also revealed that it doesn't offer the best 2D video quality, due to the need to convert it from a fish-eye image, and the max 1440/60p resolution. It can't match standard rivals like the GoPro Hero 11 Black in low light situations, either. But it remains the best waterproof, 360-degree action camera around.
Read our in-depth GoPro Max review
The best modular action camera
Insta360 Go 3S sample video
✅ You want the smallest action camera: Lightweight and miniature, the Go 3S is as tiny as 4K cameras get, unlocking unique angles.
✅ You want a range of shooting options: Use the clever FreeFrame mode and you can choose a vertical or horizontal aspect later.
❌ You want a completely rugged system: The Action Pod upgrades the shooting experience but it doesn’t have the same waterproofing.
❌ You want all-day battery life: Due to its size, the Go 3S has a modest battery life that can’t compete with rival cameras.
We praised the Insta360 Go 3 for its miniature design, foolproof interface and useful magnetic mounting abilities. Its successor improves on that proposition with a sharper 4K resolution, which makes the FreeFrame mode more versatile: based on our review, you can stick the Go 3S in places other cameras can’t go, then choose your preferred video orientation after the fact. If you want an easy way to capture unique angles or creative POV footage, the Go 3S will serve you well.
Its tiny size does come at the expense of battery life and overall video quality, especially in low-light conditions. Inserting the Go 3S into the Action Pod attachment does extend longevity, as well as enhancing the shooting experience with a responsive flip-up touchscreen, but it’s worth noting that the Action Pod doesn’t benefit from the same waterproof credentials. All the same, if versatility matters more to you than overall resolution, we think there’s no action camera quite like the Insta360 Go 3S.
Read our in-depth Insta360 Go 3S review
The best tough action camera
OM System Tough TG-7 sample images
✅ You want a rock-solid family camera: Easy to use and as rugged as the come, the TG-7 is the perfect point-and-shoot for family adventures.
✅ You shoot images in all conditions: Designed mainly for stills, the TG-7 offers a surprising range of photography features and modes.
❌ You want the best quality: Even with its range of photo modes, the sensor size and resolution mean many smartphones shoot sharper.
❌ You want a touchscreen interface: The 3-inch LCD is usable enough, but it’s not touch-sensitive, which may put discourage some users.
A rugged point-and-shoot that’s easy to use and packed with a versatile set of photography features, we think the OM System Tough TG-7 is a top choice if you want a compact you can rely on in all conditions. It doesn’t represent a huge upgrade over the Tough TG-6, but it’s still the one we’d pick. Its durability credentials aren’t in any doubt, with protection against dust, drops, crushing, freezing and submersion. In testing, we also appreciated its tactile controls and accessible handling, even though its screen isn’t touch-sensitive.
We did find its 4K/30p video dated in our review, while image quality from its 12MP sensor can be bettered by most modern smartphones. That’s true, even with a fast f/2 aperture at the wide end of its 25-100mm zoom range. On the other hand, we were pleasantly surprised by its range of shooting modes, which includes macro focusing and white balance presets based on water depth. While this isn’t a camera to buy for the best quality images, it will see you through just about any type of action.
Read our in-depth Olympus Tough TG-7 review
The best value GoPro
GoPro Hero 10 Black sample video
✅ You want a great GoPro for less: If you don't need 10-bit video, this is a modern, capable GoPro at a lower price.
✅ You shoot slow-mo: 4K/120p recording gives the Hero 10 Black slow-mo credentials to match the Hero 11 Black.
❌ You want to shoot vertically: With its 8:7 aspect ratio sensor, the Hero 11 Black is a better choice for vertical recording.
❌ You want 10-bit video: If you like to color grade in post-production, later GoPro Hero models offer 10-bit video support.
It's no longer top of the GoPro range, but the Hero 10 Black remains an excellent choice if you want a good value GoPro that still has the skills to capture smooth, sharp 4K footage. In testing, we found its ability to capture 4K/120p video genuinely impressive, while it's far more responsive touchscreen makes it a better choice than the GoPro Hero 9 Black.
In our review, we found it more versatile and fun to use than its predecessor. With GoPro's effective HyperSmooth stabilization available across most shooting modes, it's an ideal tool for recording 4K adventures and handheld vlogs alike. Thanks to its waterproof build, it's also more durable than your smartphone. The newer GoPro Hero 11 Black offers greater editing flexibility, while cameras like the DJI Osmo Action 3 probably represent better value overall. But if you want a GoPro action camera for less than flagship money, we think the Hero 10 Black is a great choice.
Read our in-depth GoPro Hero 10 Black review
How to choose the best action camera for you
How to choose the best action camera
While many of the best action cameras have unique features which set them apart from the competition, there are certain core skills that every good action cam should have.
An action camera should be rugged enough to endure your adventures, plus waterproof down to at least a few meters. It should also be straightforward to use and operate, even in extreme conditions. Touchscreens can make an action cam easier to control, but if you plan to shoot while wearing gloves, it might make more sense to select a model with physical buttons.
You’ll probably use an action cam on the move, so image stabilization is an important feature. This should smooth out camera shake to produce more watchable footage. The quality of image stabilization can vary significantly, so it’s worth thinking about how smooth your video needs to be (or whether you can live with a few wobbles). A higher resolution sensor can help: digital image stabilization will often crop the frame to eliminate movement. Footage cropped from 4K will look better than video that’s been reduced down from 1080p.
Many of the top action cameras also offer smartphone connectivity, which allows you to easily edit and share your latest videos quickly. Some models also support live-streaming straight to platforms like YouTube. This can be demanding on battery life, but will be useful if you plan on vlogging directly to social media.
Most action cameras can shoot slow-motion footage at upwards of 120fps, while some of the top models also offer more creative shooting modes, such as hyperlapses. Some in-camera effects can be replicated with editing software, but it’s worth considering a camera with creative presets if you’re looking to add variety to your videos with minimal effort.
The majority of models ship with a range of mounting options. If you’re planning to use one during a more niche activity, be sure to check that there’s a suitable attachment available to fit your needs. A few action cams go further, offering a modular setup which allows you to augment your shooting with optional accessories, such as microphones, lights or even a 360-degree lens.
What is an action camera used for?
The best action cameras are compact, tough and easy to operate. Thanks to their rugged build, action cams can be used to shoot footage in the kind of scenarios where most standard cameras simply can’t survive. And because the top options offer outstanding image stabilization, action cams are ideal for recording smooth video while you’re on the move.
Many people use action cameras to capture footage of their adventurous pursuits, such as mountain biking, skydiving or snowboarding. The best action cams are also waterproof, so some outdoor enthusiasts employ them to shoot watersports or record underwater video while swimming or diving. Most action cams come with a range of mounts, which make it easy to attach them to your helmet, handlebars or even a strap which wraps around your chest. So you should always be able to find an attachment that suits.
Action cameras can also be fitted inside vehicles, either to record the road like a substitute dash cam, or to capture what the driver is doing. Several motorsport series fit in-car action cameras to record racing drivers.
Not everyone uses action cameras for extreme activities, though. Because the best models are easy to control, feature creative shooting modes and offer excellent connectivity options (including live-streaming support), a lot of vloggers use models like the GoPro Hero 10 Black to shoot videos for social media. Image stabilization means they’re great for walking and talking, while their compact size makes action cams good for on-the-go recording.
Some content creators deploy action cams as a second camera alongside their main mirrorless model, for shooting slow-motion b-roll or capturing additional angles to add variety to their videos.
How we test action cameras
☑️ 100s of cameras reviewed
☑️ 15 years of product testing
☑️ Over 16,000 products reviewed in total
☑️ Nearly 200,000 hours testing tech
Action cameras are among the toughest cameras around, so we properly put them through their paces to make sure they live up to their rugged billing – and can shoot excellent video and stills, too.
We take each one through a range of real-world tests including cycling, swimming and, if possible, an experience like an adventure course. These not only give us a good idea of each model's ability to withstand the elements, but how easy they are to operate in difficult conditions.
When it comes to footage, we record in a variety of resolutions and frame-rates to help gauge each action camera's strengths, and review these clips on a calibrated monitor. We look at default color reproduction and noise levels in shadows and highlights, and look out for any common image quality issues including clipping, softness, barrel distortion and over-zealous processing.
We go through a similar process to analyze each camera's image stabilization, which is crucial to maintaining image quality during movement, and look at the quality of any special shooting modes too, including slo-mo and timelapses.
For battery life tests, we continuously record at different resolutions and frame-rates. We note down both how long the action cams lasts and when it has to shut down due to overheating. Lastly, we evaluate how user-friendly each camera is, by testing both their touchscreen interfaces and companion apps.
