Guide to the best action cameras

Hello everyone! For a while now, I’ve gotten back to writing articles about photography. This time, I decided to put together a guide to the best action cameras. To be honest, I’ve received quite a few questions on the topic. Indeed, it’s very appealing if you’re looking for a small camera that’s light, compact, and easy to carry. It’s still different from a camera body, which is much heavier but higher quality. It’s also different from a smartphone, which is ideal for travelers to bring back memories. For our part, we had an action camera in Asia and used it often during our trips (GoPro).

So whether you’re looking to replace your action camera with a more modern model or it’s your first time, I’ve put together a selection of the best action cameras right now. I’ll let you discover them! By the way, even though these cameras are compact, consider an appropriate camera bag : always handy for carrying and protecting your gear!

If you would like to browse other accessories, we have put together a comprehensive guide to the best iPads on the market right now.

In September 2024, GoPro launched the Hero 13 Black with a true optics system designed for professional action cams. Roughly speaking, the camera offers three front add-ons: Ultra Wide, Macro, and Anamorphic (since 2025), as well as an ND filter pack. These options broaden the possibilities, with automatic recognition by the camera and waterproofing maintained to 10 m. In terms of versatility, this pro camera is much better than its competitors.

Build quality is excellent: neat finishes, no superfluous switch. That’s what makes it easy to handle. Macro mode lowers the minimum focusing distance from about 44 cm to 11 cm. It also delivers detailed rendering in the center and at close range (about 11 cm). In the field, Ultra Wide offers a very wide field, with a slight loss of micro-contrast and sharpness in the corners wide open. The Anamorphic delivers a cinematic look without pronounced circular distortions. On the other hand, expect some vignetting. Optical flaws, like flare and reflections, really depend on the light angle and ND filters, while chromatic aberrations and distortions are fairly well controlled.

Thanks to its optical system, the Hero 13 Black really stands out. It’s perfect for content creators who want better rendering than a standard action cam without moving to a camera + photo lenses. Ultra Wide is made for sports; Macro, for anything product-related, DIY, or nature; and Anamorphic is great for narrative projects and wide-format landscapes. Honestly, I think GoPro really hit hard with this advance and truly stands out from the competition!

In November 2024, DJI released the Osmo Action 5 Pro, a compact action cam that directly competes with the GoPro Hero 13 Black and, above all, succeeds the DJI Osmo Action 4. For example, we still get the 1/1,3″ sensor with 2.4 µm photosites (as on the Action 4), but with modernized processing and AI-improved subject tracking/centering. It also stands out with 47 GB of internal memory and waterproofing to 20 m without a housing. Its form factor remains compact and very easy to carry.

In terms of build, it’s neat and efficient, with two touchscreen OLEDs, two clear buttons, a microSD slot (up to 1 TB). The built-in lens is a 9 mm f/2,8 (35mm equiv.) with glass protection. Some feedback about this protection notes fragility after an impact. Performance-wise, the Action 5 Pro offers excellent 4K image quality in broad daylight: controlled colors and very solid electronic stabilization, with some definition and frame rate restrictions on Horizon modes. In photos, the internal processing is interesting, while the 2× digital zoom is handy but trims away fine detail. In “wide” mode, the 155° field is exceptional, though you need to watch for possible distortions (that often happens on ultra-wide angles).

In summary, the Osmo Action 5 Pro measures up to the Hero 13 Black, with a solid evolution from the Action 4. The claimed battery life is 4 hours, whereas in reality it’s closer to 3 hours. If you want my opinion, it’s an excellent all-round camera. It adapts well to action, travel, social networks, underwater, etc. If you have the Action 4, there are good improvements, even if they remain moderate. If this is your first action camera, it presents itself as a safe bet with a very good price-to-performance ratio.

Released in July 2025, the Osmo 360 is a first for DJI in the 360° segment. This camera positions itself as a direct competitor to the Insta360 X5. It stands out with its 1″ “square” HDR sensor (2.4 µm photosites) and bright f/1.9 optics for 360° video up to 8K/50 fps and 360° photos at 120 MP. In “single-lens” use, it offers 5K/60 ultra-wide (155°) and a Boost mode at 170° in 4K/120.

As for its build, it’s ultramodern with a magnetic mount, possible voice control, and DJI Mimo/DJI Studio software integration. Stabilization relies on RockSteady and HorizonSteady (like the brand’s drones). In terms of image quality, the 1-inch and f/1.9 deliver nice low-light rendering and a stated dynamic range of 13,5 IL. In 4K/120 (Boost mode, 170°), the action rendering is smooth. In 5K/60 single-lens (155°), you keep more of an ultra-wide style, perfect for sports. There are also creative functions, as well as software stabilization that curbs flare and shakes well.

Overall, the Osmo 360 is a nice entry into 360° for DJI! It’s a good option for the most demanding creators for travel, sports, motorcycling, events, etc. Honestly, if your priority is 360° with a rather high-end bent, I’m willing to bet you’ll be happy with it!

The Insta360 X5, available since July 2025, positions itself as a high-end 360° camera, succeeding the X4 to take on DJI’s Osmo 360. It includes two 1/1,28″ sensors (144% larger than those of the X4) and records in 8K at 24/25/30 fps. The optics are based on two 6 mm f/2 lenses, while waterproofing is rated to 15 m.

This action camera is designed above all for field use, with a non-slip coating, gesture and voice control, and tougher glass. The ergonomics remain simple to be as intuitive as possible. For example, there are no rings, dials, or switches. In terms of battery life, it excels in its category: it’s rated at 208 minutes. For the image, there’s real progress with the X5: in 8K 360, center sharpness is very good. In broad daylight, video rendering is natural. In low light, the PureVideo + triple AI chip combo improves dynamic range nicely compared to the X4.

Ultimately, the X5 camera ticks many boxes: better battery life, solid build, 8K for post-production, and effective stabilization. However, it’s not cheap: it’s still an investment… But if you have the budget, you won’t be disappointed! It will be your best ally for travel, sports, events, reframing, etc.

The Insta360 GO Ultra, released in August 2025, is a mini camera weighing just 53 g! It features a 1/1,28″ sensor with a 5 nm AI chip. It’s also waterproof to 10 m.

Build-wise, it offers an improved pendant, adhesive plates, and a cap clip, all to multiply angles. It brings an important change: there’s no longer built-in storage, but a microSD card up to 2 TB. Its battery life remains decent: about 70 minutes. Its compactness and weather sealing are real assets for taking it hiking, BMX riding, or underwater. In terms of image, the GO Ultra offers good definition and a good recording frame rate, with AI processing. PureVideo mode improves sharpness and brightness in low light. Active HDR controls contrast up to 4K/30 fps. Plus, the app has been updated: automatic editing, transitions, effects, music, overlays of sports data (GPS and speed, for example).

In summary, the GO Ultra presents itself as an interesting, compact alternative to classic action cams. It adapts well to hands-free vlogs, sports, vacations, and social networks. For my part, I find that this camera offers many possibilities at a price that remains reasonable. As is often the case with Insta360, you’ll find this camera in two packs: Standard and Adventure. As you can imagine, the second is much more complete with accessories like a selfie stick, a case, a second battery, etc.

On sale since May 2025, the Insta360 Ace Pro 2 positions itself as an action cam that leans on AI to rival the GoPro Hero 13 Black and DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro. It keeps the 1/1,3″ sensor paired with a 13 mm f/2,6 and can shoot up to 8K, and even pushes slow motion in 4K up to 120 fps. Nothing to complain about in terms of form factor: it hasn’t changed from the previous version, still just as compact and light.

As for its build, there are a few changes, such as the removable windscreen, sturdier lens protector, and magnetic mount. This camera has a single screen, tilting 180° for vlogging. However, we still note the absence of internal storage (microSD required). In terms of image quality, the camera improves: dynamic range is stated at 13,5 IL, 8K is relevant for reframing, even if stabilization remains limited to Standard mode. In the field, the best results are in 4K (60 or 120 fps), with good FlowState. In low light, according to user feedback, PureVideo mode is superior to the Hero 13 and the Osmo Action 5 Pro. Finally, although battery life is claimed at 180 minutes, in practice it’s closer to 120 minutes.

Ultimately, the Insta360 Ace Pro 2 is a very good alternative to GoPro and DJI. It offers excellent 4K quality. It’s ideal for vlogging, motorcycling, sports, travel, and light underwater use. However, if you shoot at night and have high demands, keep in mind that the photo mode is less convincing. Note that the camera is available in different packs: Standard, Deluxe, and Creator. If you’re already equipped, the Standard is sufficient. Otherwise, to be safe, the other two packs include: batteries, a microSD, etc.

To start, it’s essential to list your most frequent scenes: travel, vlog, diving, fast sports, night shoots, motorcycle/car… Depending on that, your choice will follow. For example, for an extreme sport, prioritize effective stabilization and horizon lock. For vlogging, good sound and a front screen are important. In water, take a close look at native waterproofing or the presence of a housing, and whether the buttons are easy to operate. If you’re used to reframing, I recommend turning to 360 cameras. Finally, if you’re mainly looking for crisp results and files that are easy to edit, you can stick with a simple, classic action camera. It will do the job just fine!

Sensor size plays an essential role in dynamic range and low-light rendering. Simply put, the larger the sensor, the crisper and more nuanced the image. In addition, if the lens is bright, with good ISO management, noise remains limited in low light. Also look at highlight handling and whether noise reduction is well balanced.

4K at 60 fps is the best balance for your action scenes. To create slow motion, you’ll simply need to go up to 120, or even 240 fps. In 5K, you’ll be able to crop while keeping good sharpness when you export in 4K. However, don’t look only at the “K”; also look at the bit rate (Mbps). If it’s high, it really makes a difference on textures like water, grass, and snow. Not to mention that, on the codec side, H.265/HEVC compresses better than H.264.

We don’t necessarily think about it at first, but sound is very important. I recommend prioritizing more-than-decent stereo mics and good wind reduction. For example, the presence of a windscreen makes a difference outdoors. For a polished vlog, a mic input and a wireless receiver are must-haves.

A front screen greatly facilitates selfie-style framing, while a rear touchscreen is handy for settings. Indeed, presets by activity save time. Not to mention voice control, which helps a lot depending on the shooting conditions. Once the clips are shot, the mobile app should be efficient for transfer and editing. As a bonus, equipment like the remote control, Quick Capture, and settings lock help avoid accidental changes. It’s always useful, believe me!

The camera’s build needs to be solid. To that end, you can check whether the chassis is sturdy and whether there’s a replaceable lens protector. In general, native waterproofing is rated to 10 m. In most cases, that’s enough to use it in water. But if you’re doing deep-water diving, go for a housing instead. As for temperatures, in cases of extreme heat or cold, battery life will be shorter.

This last point echoes defining your main use. Let me explain: we often tend to overestimate our needs, whereas sometimes an entry-level or mid-range model can be enough. For example, if you’re looking for an action camera to create crisp 4K memories, an entry-level or mid-range camera is more than sufficient. Conversely, if you shoot regularly, opt instead for mid- or high-end. That’s what brings more stylized sequences, with a cinematic effect. To properly estimate your budget, you also have to think about accessories: batteries, cards, ND filters, etc. As you’ve understood, the goal is to give you tips to avoid breaking the bank while choosing an action camera that suits you.

This article on the best action cameras is coming to an end. I hope you’ll find what you’re looking for among them to shoot your sports, vlog, diving sequences, etc.

If you’re primarily looking for an action camera to create memories, I think our guide to the best portable printers should interest you!

And if size is essential for you, because you move around a lot and do long sessions, I suggest you check out expert compact cameras.

See you soon for more photo articles!

Written by Sylvain PONS

I've been passionate about photography since 2010, learning as I went along. Today, I dedicate myself to guiding others in their choice of camera gear and sharing a variety of tips to improve their photography skills.

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