15 best action cameras

Action Camera - a device designed to shoot video on the move in an aggressive environment. Most often used by travel enthusiasts, extremes and journalists. These cameras are small in size and high strength, able to withstand falls, shocks and shaking. Some models can shoot even under water. The first action cameras were developed by GoPro, thus opening a new direction in video technology.

In compiling the ranking of the best action cameras, we took into account the following characteristics and indicators:

• Quality of shooting - the presence of fullHD shooting is obligatory. The best cameras are able to shoot in ultraHD (2K) and ultraHD (4K) resolution.
• Viewing angle - the larger the viewing angle, the wider the area the device can record. An additional plus get action cameras with a viewing angle of 150 grams.
• Battery - the more battery power, the longer it will power the device. Often, the battery life depends on the battery capacity. Recommended indicator - from 1000 mAh.
• Weight of the device - it is logical to assume that the lighter the device, the more convenient it is to use it. The best action cameras, even with the rich filling, have a mass of not more than 100 grams.
• Additional functions - the presence of functions such as digital stabilization, continuous shooting, etc.
• Completion - the advantage is given to cameras, complete with which there are: protective box, curved mount, mount on the steering wheel, hand strap, 3-axis mount.

Also, when choosing the best devices, the cost of the device (price - quality), customer reviews and expert opinion were taken into account.

Best cheap action cameras from China

A distinctive feature of the "Chinese" action cameras, oddly enough, is the low price. At the same time, in their characteristics they are rarely inferior to eminent brands. And this is not surprising, since today 90% of all video equipment is assembled in China. What can I say, even the ancestors of the action-direction - GoPro cameras are going in the sky. Who, if not Chinese manufacturers, know all the details of the production of such equipment?

The most popular manufacturers of Chinese action cameras are Xiaomi, SJCAM and EKEN. Gadgets of these brands and appear in our ranking of the best.

3 Xiaomi Yi Action Camera Basic Edition

Xiaomi Yi ranks third in the budget rating of action cameras from China. The manufacturer has added a minimum of functions to it, but they are implemented with almost no complaints. The buyer is met by a small monochrome packaging. It contains a booklet with a QR code for downloading software, a USB cable, a battery and, of course, the camera itself. The gadget is made of corrugated and matte plastic, it is pleasant to hold it in your hand.

Despite the fact that there are no accessories in the package, Xiaomi Yi has to use a tripod, aquabox and screen (on the camera itself it is not). Recording is done on a microSD card, and the A7LS processor from the manufacturer of Ambrella is responsible for video compression (they are also used by GoPro).

The application for the smartphone compensates for the lack of a screen, but, according to user feedback, it is not very well translated into Russian. Recording is done in 480p, 720p and 1080p formats, with the minimum number of frames per second being 60. During dynamic shooting in 1080p, the picture is slightly blurred.

Probably the most serious drawback of the camera is the low battery life. When fully charged shooting lasts a maximum of an hour. Nevertheless, Xiaomi Yi is a serious competitor even to GoPro 3, so it is worth looking at it at least.

User Review:

Yes, the quality of shooting Xiaomi Yi is really close to GoPro 3, but many minor flaws (serious overheating, a short USB cable, inconvenient software for a smartphone, etc.) are very annoying. Nevertheless, I understand that for such money you can hardly think of something better.

2 SJCAM SJ4000 WiFi

SJCAM SJ4000 WiFi takes a well-deserved second place in the ranking, overtaking the Xiaomi Yi action camera in almost all respects. The device comes in a bright glossy packaging, which lists the main properties of the camera. Inside there are a lot of mounts (on the wheel of the bike, bicycle helmet, car) and various accessories (aquabox, etc.), which already puts the SJCAM SJ4000 in a winning position.

A 1.5-inch display will provide useful service to those who do not want to use the smartphone once again, because if you are shooting, for example, in the rain, then who wants to get an expensive gadget to take a couple of shots? Nevertheless, the application is well Russified and has many useful functions (continuous shooting, resolution change, various filters, image stabilizer, etc.). However, during the broadcast from the camera to the smartphone appears a small but tolerable delay.

The battery allows you to shoot video for two hours, which is twice as good as the results of a number of budget competitors. Thus, we have, although not perfect, but a worthy device that can compete freely with other representatives of the low price category.

User Review:

Another camera from the series "like GoPro, but it is several times cheaper ", but the authors of reviews forget about the pitfalls. For example, when changing the battery, the date gets lost, and, accordingly, the numbering of the video begins anew. Sjcam Sj4000 justifies, but a lot of flaws really bother with active use.

Video Review

1 EKEN H9R

Not only toys at one time, but also quite high-quality action cameras can have a pleasant price, which proves the existence of the EKEN budget model. The most popular and at the same time most accessible development of a relatively young, but still quite well-known company, in addition to cost, takes excellent image quality for devices of this type. The ability to shoot full 4K video with a resolution of 4096 by 2160 pixels allows you to create really clear content. Also an inexpensive action camera boasts a bright design and a very worthy set of properties for its price. Among the best of them is the remote control, thanks to which the camera can be controlled remotely.

In addition, according to reviews, the high quality of the assembly and materials, durability, convenient operation, a clear display and an expanded package of equipment have become a plus for this participant. The model is complemented by a huge number of various holders and fixtures.

Best action cameras in terms of price - quality

Since budgetary action cameras, as a rule, have relatively poor functionality and are inferior to others in autonomy, picture and sound quality, and top-end designs often cost a fortune, the middle class occupies a special place on the video market. With a slightly higher price, they show outstanding results.

The most simple and still fairly accessible action cameras of the category look original, comfortable, have all the most important functions, but are not overloaded with additions, which makes them an ideal choice for a beginner. The best are able to press some premium models due to the abundance of modes and a great picture.

3 Motorola VerveCam +

The action camera of the world-famous company was among the participants of the TOP, mainly due to its very original properties, some of which are noticeable at a glance. Unlike its main competitors, the Motorola model received a streamlined circular shape with a lens in the center, a bright blue indicator at the top and a small number of buttons, which makes it unusual in appearance and very easy to use. Such an action camera is the best for a beginner who wants to share his impressions with the world. Her main task is streaming video.

The ease of learning uncomplicated functionality does not make a compact device less interesting. After all, the development records video in a rare but popular format, known as QHD 2.5K. This is a non-standard shooting resolution, which is used as a compromise between Full HD and 4K UHD, which makes the action camera a very good option for those who find it difficult to choose between these two options.

2 AC Robin Zed5

Few Russian manufacturers dare to create action cameras, and firms that adequately cope with this difficult work and even less. The AC Robin brand was a happy exception and therefore deserves special attention, as well as one of its best representatives - Zed5. However, the model won a place in the rating not so much by its origin, as by very good properties for a budget gadget. Zed5 is pleased with a set of popular interfaces that is quite extensive for its value, including Wi-Fi, a memory card, Bluetooth and even an HDMI output. The last line is not very common and is used primarily to connect to the TV.Equally useful was the ability to install a memory card up to 128 GB.

In addition, in response to this action camera, many are praised for good image quality, modest weight, tolerable work time and availability of instructions in Russian. At the same time the model is well equipped. Not only aquabox and various fixings are attached to it, but even an external microphone.

1 Xiaomi YI 4K Action Camera

This participant TOPA is considered by many to be the best value for money and not in vain. While most mid-range action cameras can offer only a few standard settings and one or two formats, this model does allow the photo lover to unleash their creative potential. After all, this representative of the rating not only pleases with a viewing angle of 155 degrees, which significantly expands the frame, with a 12-megapixel matrix and UHD 4K resolution, but also with a variety of settings. The action camera is equipped with both auto exposure, white balance presets and some other automatic modes, as well as manual exposure setting and the ability to adjust the white balance manually, which makes it somewhat similar to professional and semi-professional devices.

Another favorite feature of all those who do not want to miss a single important moment was the opportunity to take photos during video filming. Also in reviews, the model is often praised for an excellent stabilizer and a good battery.

The best action cameras of premium class

Premium action cameras are not just the most fashionable models from well-known companies with high-resolution video recordings and a powerful stabilizer, but also long-livers with the best properties. They work for a long time without recharging, support most of the popular interfaces, are replete with all sorts of modes, and sometimes are endowed with rare properties. All this makes them a real jewel for knowledgeable people.

Also, many elite action cameras are not alien to the add-ons, including the remote control, input for an external microphone and even the microphone itself. Of course, the models are reliable and successfully cope with all their tasks. Such developments are in the top of the best.

3 GoPro HERO6 Black (CHDHX-601)

The rating could not do without its most popular participant, developed by a company that once created an action camera as a view. As always, GoPro keeps the brand, giving its creations the ability to shoot video in UHD 4K format with the highest frame rate - 60 for 4K shooting and as many as 240 frames with Full HD resolution. Another significant advantage of the famous action camera can be called a rare, but incredibly useful feature, thanks to which the shooting can be done even in the rain, in the pool and at sea. The case is reliably protected from moisture, which means that the model with honor will withstand even a slight immersion, which opens up new horizons for the lover of video.

Responses to this action-camera are very numerous and note the high quality of the image even in the dark when using the night mode, an effective software stabilizer, a clear touch-screen display and logical settings. A special feature of GoPro is an accurate GPS receiver that allows you to save the coordinates of the place where the video was made.

2 Sony HDR-AS300

The creation of the famous brand, famous for creating the best photo and video equipment, is one of the most powerful and at the same time the most universal representatives of this TOP. Sony's elite action camera takes the clearest and most detailed videos and snapshots even when shooting with hands on the move, as it is endowed with a really good optical stabilizer that effectively compensates for image vibrations at the level of the optical system. This type of stabilization is recommended by the vast majority of specialists.Also, the best features of the model include a triple digital zoom, a wealth of settings, standards and formats, better sound recording, especially when using an external microphone, and autonomy.

This action camera runs on a single charge an order of magnitude longer than its counterparts, as evidenced by positive reviews. On average, the battery lasts for 2-3 hours of continuous shooting, which is one of the best results for such compact devices.

1 Sony FDR-X3000R

Sony is one of the recognized leaders in the field of photo and video equipment. Model FDR-X3000R - the crown of their creations. Yes, the camera is incredibly expensive, but the result is worth it. Recording up to 4K / 30 fps, FullHD - 120 fps. But much more pleased with the optical stabilization - with it the picture becomes really smooth and pleasant to the eye. Sound is recorded on a stereo microphone, but if its quality does not suit you, you can connect an external one.

But the advantages do not end there. The battery life is excellent - 2.35 hours. Also worth noting is the presence of a complete remote control and waterproof case. The remote is worn on the arm, you can start recording from it, look at the recorded image and change the settings.

Advantages:

• Excellent picture quality due to optical stabilization
• Good sound quality
• Long running from a single charge
• Remote control

Disadvantages:

• High price

Top 360-degree cameras

Panoramic all-rounder videos are gradually becoming more popular due to the advent of massive VR headsets. But is it possible to seriously consider 360-degree cameras for purchase? Hardly. The technology is not yet completely tested, and you will almost certainly encounter many problems. Nevertheless, the top three are not perfect, but there are still some good models on the market.

3 Rico theta sc

Original and fairly easy, when compared with the closest competitors, an action camera with a non-trivial design will undoubtedly appeal to lovers of style and uniqueness. Unlike all the others, this model is made in an unusual form, somewhat reminiscent of the neuralizer from the film “Men in Black”, which not only gives it a mysterious look, but also allows you to conveniently take the device in your hand. Another stylish advantage of the Ricoh action camera was the choice of six body colors, including not only classic gray and white, but also beige, blue, pink and other shades that are rare for this category.

From the interesting appearance does not lag behind technical data. The model with two 12-megapixel matrices makes high-quality Full HD video, supports many formats and standards, making it easy to open files in any program. Own 8 GB memory is also a plus, but this action camera doesn’t have a slot for memory cards, so the volume for storing files does not expand.

2 GoPro Fusion (CHDHZ-103)

GoPro Fusion is one of the most sought-after action cameras with a 360 degree viewing angle. The model from the famous brand, which first began to develop devices of this type, gained popularity not only because of the smooth panoramic shooting, but also due to the record HD video format of 5.2K with a resolution of 4992 by 2496 pixels, which provides high detail. In addition, the camera is equipped with a night mode, which allows you to successfully shoot in very low light, as well as an impact-resistant and moisture-resistant case, which makes it suitable for recording during surfing, snowboarding and other activities associated with water and snow.

You can make videos on this camera not only with your hands. Built-in tripod with sliding monopod will allow you to install an action camera anywhere. At the same time, to control the shooting process, it is not necessary to stand next to it, because the model has received voice control Fusion, which allows to give simple commands to the device from a distance.This property is especially loved by users and is often noted in reviews among the pros.

1 Xiaomi MiJia 360 Panoramic Camera

Although the technology developed in China, all are treated differently, hardly anyone would argue with the fact that this action camera is an outstanding gadget with the best ratio of quality, properties and cost. With a relatively average price, this member of the rating perfectly copes with its main function, shooting first-class videos in 4K quality. Thanks to two matrices with a resolution of 16 megapixels, the image is really detailed and sharp, which makes this model one of the leaders among all popular action cameras. In addition, Xiaomi is distinguished from most analogs by the ability to install a microSD memory card with the largest memory capacity - 128 GB.

In addition to excellent quality, design reviews are also often featured in reviews. Xiaomi action camera is one of the thinnest models, because its thickness does not exceed 24 millimeters. High quality of materials, high-quality assembly and deep classic body color make it really attractive and stylish.

The best action cameras with waterproof housing

Action cameras won the attention of travelers and athletes the ability to shoot anywhere, anytime. Nevertheless, this principle works mainly in dry weather. In such conditions, it is often possible to replace an action camera with a conventional one or even a camera phone, but there is also a sphere in which compact video recording devices take the lead.

Video reviews and photographs of the rain and the underwater world are rapidly gaining momentum, and for shooting in such difficult conditions you will need a special type of device - a moisture-proof action camera. Such gadgets have a special design that protects the filling from splashes, and sometimes a large amount of moisture.

3 Rekam XPROOF EX640

Surprisingly, it was the Canadian model that turned out to be the most budget and at the same time the best inexpensive action camera, reliably protected from drops, splashes and even water. All this makes it an excellent option for shooting on water and under water, but it is important to consider that the quality of the image under water is somewhat weaker than when used on land. Nevertheless, even when diving, it removes better than most competitors in the budget category, which allowed Rekam to proudly enter the TOP along with the more expensive devices. In addition, it is the most popular action camera in the entire economy class, because it is ideal as a basic option and is great for beginners.

According to myriad reviews, the model is not only equipped with an effective stabilizer and is pleased with a decent working time without recharging, but is also very easy to use. The menu is intuitively clear to everyone, and the body is not overloaded with incomprehensible levers and buttons. The manufacturer made the device minimalistic, but still supplied with everything necessary.

2 Olympus Tough TG-Tracker

The price is only slightly higher than the average did not prevent the Japanese company to make its model truly unique. The development of Olympus has become a representative of a rare, but very useful type of device - action cameras with a waterproof case and a built-in illuminator. Therefore, it can be safely used even at night at sea. A powerful backlight will not only allow you to shoot in absolutely any light, but also help orient in the dark, because if necessary, the lamp shines for a long time. Of course, when shooting in such conditions, setting the desired white balance can be difficult, but the company has provided this, giving the action camera a whole set of preset light modes, as well as a good matrix and the ability to shoot in UHD 4K format.

Users also often include good ergonomics and convenience in general, realistic colors, a wide viewing angle, and a very decent sound recording.The latter aspect markedly sets it apart from competitors who rarely succeed in this.

1 GoPro HERO7 Black (CHDHX-701)

The best GoPro creation, recognized by many experts as the most reliable premium development category, is deservedly becoming the leader of the TOP gadgets with water protection. The shockproof housing, perfectly protected from moisture, allows, without a shadow of a doubt, to hunt beautiful views under water. The 4K shooting format in combination with a large number of frames per second and a powerful electronic stabilizer ensures realistic photos and video. Despite the possibility of using underwater, the action camera is rich in useful features and connectors. The model provides for the installation of a memory card, remote control via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, as well as the determination of coordinates by GPS. A microphone input allows you to connect an external microphone to improve the sound.

Happy buyers, among other things, praise GoPro and for good proprietary software for further processing of footage. Everybody also notes the excellent colors and TimeWarp function, which opens up a lot of creative possibilities.

Popular vote - who is the best manufacturer of action cameras?
We vote!

GoPro

Sony

Polaroid

Xiaomi

Sjcam

Aee

Panasonic

Olympus

Smarterra

X-TRY

AC Robin

Motorola

Rekam

Ricoh

Total votes: 1031

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