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The DJI Osmo Action 4 is the best action camera for shooting smooth 24fps footage, thanks to its large 1/1.3-inch sensor and advanced stabilization that delivers cinematic quality in any environment. With 4K at 24fps and superior low-light performance, it outperforms rivals like GoPro and Insta360 for filmmakers seeking natural motion and rich detail.
Key Takeaways
- Choose 24fps for cinematic flow: Ideal for smooth, film-like action footage.
- Prioritize stabilization: Ensures steady shots even in high-motion scenarios.
- Look for 4K resolution: Delivers crisp, detailed videos at 24fps.
- Check low-light performance: Crucial for consistent quality in dim environments.
- Opt for durable designs: Waterproof and shockproof for extreme conditions.
- Verify frame rate options: Confirm 24fps is available across resolutions.
📑 Table of Contents
Why 24fps Matters in Action Cameras
Imagine this: You’re hiking a mountain trail, camera in hand, capturing the sunrise over the peaks. You want your footage to feel cinematic—smooth, natural, and immersive, like the kind of scenes you see in movies. That’s where 24fps (frames per second) comes into play. It’s the gold standard for film and storytelling, creating a slightly cinematic “motion blur” that feels more like real life than the hyper-clear look of higher frame rates. While many action cameras boast 60fps or even 120fps for slow-motion effects, 24fps is essential for achieving that classic, cinematic look that’s perfect for vlogs, documentaries, and travel videos.
But not every action camera handles 24fps well. Some struggle with stabilization, color grading, or low-light performance at this frame rate. Others offer 24fps but lack the dynamic range or bitrate to make the footage truly shine. That’s why choosing the right action camera that shoots in 24fps—and does it well—isn’t just about ticking a box. It’s about matching your creative vision with a tool that delivers smooth, cinematic footage without compromise. Whether you’re a content creator, adventure traveler, or filmmaker on a budget, this guide will help you find the best action camera that can shoot in 24fps for smooth, professional-grade results.
What to Look for in a 24fps Action Camera
Frame Rate Consistency and Bitrate
When we talk about 24fps, we’re not just talking about the number—it’s about how the camera handles that frame rate. A camera that shoots 24fps at 50 Mbps is going to deliver far smoother, more detailed footage than one at 20 Mbps. Bitrate is the amount of data the camera records per second, and higher bitrates mean less compression, better color depth, and fewer artifacts. Look for cameras that offer at least 50–100 Mbps in 24fps mode. For example, the DJI Osmo Action 4 records 24fps at 100 Mbps in 4K, which means your footage will retain more detail, especially in fast-moving scenes.
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Also, check for frame rate consistency. Some budget cameras may drop frames or stutter during high-motion sequences. A good test? Try panning quickly across a busy scene. If the video looks choppy or the horizon tilts unnaturally, the camera may not be processing 24fps smoothly.
Stabilization and Motion Smoothing
One of the biggest challenges with 24fps is motion blur. Unlike 60fps, which captures more frames and feels “snappier,” 24fps relies on motion blur to feel natural. But if the camera isn’t stabilized, that blur can turn into shaky, unwatchable footage. This is where in-body stabilization (IBS) and electronic image stabilization (EIS) become critical.
For example, when I was filming a mountain bike trail last summer, my older action camera (without EIS) produced jittery 24fps clips that made viewers feel seasick. Upgrading to a model with RockSteady stabilization (like the DJI Osmo Action 4) transformed the footage—smooth, fluid, and cinematic. Look for cameras that offer advanced stabilization modes specifically tuned for 24fps, as they often use predictive algorithms to smooth out micro-movements.
Low-Light Performance and Dynamic Range
24fps often means longer exposure per frame, which can be a double-edged sword. In bright daylight, it’s perfect. But in low light, longer exposures can lead to noise or motion blur. A camera with a larger sensor (like 1/1.3″ or bigger) and good dynamic range (12+ stops) will handle shadows and highlights better at 24fps.
For instance, the Insta360 Ace Pro uses a 1/1.3″ sensor and claims 13 stops of dynamic range. When I shot a sunset beach walk at 24fps, the footage retained detail in both the dark shadows and the bright sky—something my previous camera failed to do. Also, check if the camera supports HDR modes in 24fps, as this can significantly improve color grading and highlight recovery in post.
Audio Quality and Wind Noise Reduction
Don’t overlook audio—especially if you’re vlogging or filming interviews. A camera that shoots great 24fps video but has poor mic quality will ruin the cinematic feel. Look for built-in mics with directional pickup and wind noise reduction. Some models, like the GoPro HERO12 Black, use a 3-mic array with advanced wind filtering, which makes a huge difference when filming on a windy ridge or during a fast bike ride.
Pro tip: Test the audio in your intended environment. If you’re shooting near water or in windy areas, a camera with an external mic input (or windscreen compatibility) is a smart upgrade.
User Interface and Frame Rate Switching
Switching between 24fps and other frame rates should be quick and intuitive. Some cameras bury the frame rate settings deep in menus, which can be frustrating when you’re on the go. I once missed a perfect sunset shot because my camera took 30 seconds to switch from 60fps to 24fps. Look for models with quick-access buttons or touchscreen presets that let you toggle frame rates in seconds.
Top 5 Action Cameras That Excel at 24fps
1. DJI Osmo Action 4 – Best Overall for 24fps Cinematography
The DJI Osmo Action 4 is a game-changer for 24fps shooters. It features a 1/1.3″ CMOS sensor, which is larger than most competitors, and supports 4K/24fps at 100 Mbps—ideal for high-bitrate, low-noise footage. The RockSteady 3.0 stabilization is excellent, even on bumpy trails or during fast pans. I tested it on a kayaking trip, and the 24fps footage looked like it was shot on a gimbal.
What sets it apart? The color science. DJI’s D-Cinelike profile gives you a flat, film-like image that’s perfect for grading in post. The 24fps clips retain rich shadows and vibrant skies, with minimal noise even at ISO 800. It also has a front-facing screen—great for vloggers who want to frame themselves in cinematic 24fps.
Downside? The battery life is average (around 100 minutes in 4K/24fps), and the lens isn’t removable. But for pure 24fps performance, it’s hard to beat.
2. GoPro HERO12 Black – Best for Versatility and Workflow
The GoPro HERO12 Black is a powerhouse, and its 24fps mode is one of the most polished in the industry. It shoots 5.3K/24fps at 120 Mbps (yes, that’s overkill, but it means incredible detail) and includes HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilization, which is nearly gimbal-level smooth. I used it to film a sunrise hike, and the 24fps footage had that classic cinematic motion blur—perfect for storytelling.
GoPro’s strength is its ecosystem. The HERO12 integrates seamlessly with Quik app and supports HDR10+ and 10-bit color in 24fps, giving you more flexibility in post. It also has a front-facing screen, 3-mic array with wind noise reduction, and a wide range of accessories (like the Volta grip for vlogging).
Downside? The 1/1.9″ sensor is smaller than the DJI’s, so low-light performance isn’t quite as good. But if you’re shooting in daylight or using external lights, it’s a top-tier 24fps choice.
3. Insta360 Ace Pro – Best for Low-Light 24fps
The Insta360 Ace Pro is a sleeper hit for 24fps shooters. Its 1/1.3″ sensor and 13-stop dynamic range make it exceptional in low light. I tested it during a nighttime city walk, and the 24fps footage retained detail in both neon signs and dark alleys—something most action cameras struggle with.
It shoots 4K/24fps at 80 Mbps and includes FlowState stabilization, which is smooth but not as refined as GoPro’s or DJI’s. Where it shines is the AI-powered noise reduction. In dimly lit scenes, the camera automatically reduces grain without smearing details. It also has a unique “FreeFrame” mode, letting you reframe 24fps shots in post—great for vloggers who want cinematic framing without a tripod.
Downside? The touchscreen is small, and the UI isn’t as intuitive as GoPro’s. But for low-light 24fps, it’s unmatched.
4. Sony RX0 II – Best for Cinematic Quality (But Niche)
The Sony RX0 II isn’t a traditional action camera—it’s a rugged, compact camera with a 1″ sensor, which is huge for this category. It shoots 4K/24fps with full pixel readout (no binning), meaning ultra-sharp, detailed footage. The Zeiss lens delivers beautiful bokeh and color, making it perfect for cinematic close-ups.
I used it to film a short travel documentary, and the 24fps clips looked like they were shot on a cinema camera. It also has S-Log2 and S-Log3 profiles, giving you massive dynamic range and grading flexibility.
Downside? It’s expensive, has no stabilization, and the screen isn’t touch-enabled. It’s best for filmmakers who want DSLR-quality 24fps in a rugged body.
5. Akaso Brave 8 – Best Budget Option for 24fps
If you’re on a tight budget, the Akaso Brave 8 delivers solid 24fps performance for under $200. It shoots 4K/24fps at 60 Mbps and includes EIS stabilization, though it’s not as smooth as premium models. I tested it on a skateboard ride, and the 24fps footage was watchable, with only minor jitters.
It has a front-facing screen, 2.4″ touchscreen, and supports external mics. The color is a bit oversaturated out of the box, but it’s easy to adjust in post. For beginners or occasional 24fps shooters, it’s a great entry point.
Downside? The sensor is small (1/2.3″), so low-light performance is poor. But for sunny-day adventures, it’s a steal.
How to Get the Most Out of 24fps Footage
Mastering Shutter Speed and Motion Blur
The key to cinematic 24fps is the 180-degree shutter rule: set your shutter speed to double your frame rate (e.g., 1/50s for 24fps). This creates natural motion blur, mimicking the look of film. Avoid 1/100s or faster—it’ll make your footage look too sharp and “video-like.”
Example: When I filmed a waterfall at 24fps, I used 1/50s. The water looked smooth and silky, not choppy. If I’d used 1/200s, it would’ve looked unnatural.
Using ND Filters for Proper Exposure
At 1/50s, you’ll often need to reduce light to avoid overexposure. That’s where ND filters come in. They’re like sunglasses for your lens, cutting light by 2–6 stops. I always carry a 3-stop ND filter for daytime 24fps shooting. Without it, my skies would be blown out.
Pro tip: Some cameras (like the GoPro HERO12) have built-in ND filters. Others require external filters. Check your camera’s specs!
Stabilization Hacks for 24fps
Even with great EIS, handheld 24fps can still feel shaky. Try these tricks:
- Use a chest mount or gimbal for walking shots.
- Lean against a wall or tree to reduce micro-movements.
- Shoot in 2.7K or 1080p if your camera struggles with 4K stabilization at 24fps.
Color Grading for Cinematic Looks
24fps footage shines in post. Use LUTs (Look-Up Tables) to apply cinematic color grades. I use a “Kodak 2383” LUT for a film-like tone. Also, adjust shadows and highlights—boost shadows slightly and compress highlights to match the cinematic look.
Comparing the Best: 24fps Specs at a Glance
| Camera | Sensor Size | 4K/24fps Bitrate | Stabilization | Dynamic Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DJI Osmo Action 4 | 1/1.3″ | 100 Mbps | RockSteady 3.0 | 12+ stops | Cinematic vlogs, adventure |
| GoPro HERO12 Black | 1/1.9″ | 120 Mbps | HyperSmooth 6.0 | 10 stops | All-around, HDR content |
| Insta360 Ace Pro | 1/1.3″ | 80 Mbps | FlowState | 13 stops | Low-light, night shooting |
| Sony RX0 II | 1″ | 100 Mbps (4K) | None | 13 stops (S-Log2) | Cinematic close-ups |
| Akaso Brave 8 | 1/2.3″ | 60 Mbps | EIS | 8 stops | Budget adventures |
Final Thoughts: Choosing Your 24fps Action Camera
After testing dozens of cameras and shooting hundreds of 24fps clips, I’ve learned that the best camera isn’t always the most expensive—it’s the one that fits your style. If you want cinematic, low-light 24fps, the Insta360 Ace Pro is a no-brainer. For all-around versatility, the GoPro HERO12 Black is a powerhouse. And if you’re all about smooth, cinematic motion, the DJI Osmo Action 4 delivers.
Remember: 24fps is about storytelling. It’s not just about specs—it’s about how the footage feels. Whether you’re filming a mountain sunrise, a city walk, or a family adventure, the right camera will help you capture moments with the smooth, cinematic quality they deserve. So grab your camera, set it to 24fps, and start creating footage that looks like it belongs on the big screen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best action camera that can shoot in 24fps for cinematic footage?
The DJI Osmo Action 4 and GoPro Hero12 Black are top contenders for 24fps shooting, offering smooth, cinematic-quality video. Both feature advanced stabilization and low-light performance, making them ideal for professional-grade action shots.
Why should I choose a 24fps action camera for my videos?
Shooting in 24fps gives footage a film-like, cinematic look preferred by filmmakers and content creators. It’s especially useful for achieving a natural motion blur and smoother playback in post-production.
Can the best action camera that can shoot in 24fps also record in higher frame rates?
Yes, most high-end models like the Insta360 ONE RS and GoPro Hero12 Black support 24fps alongside 30fps, 60fps, and even 120fps for slow-motion. This flexibility lets you adapt to different shooting scenarios without changing gear.
Are 24fps action cameras good for low-light environments?
Modern 24fps action cameras like the DJI Osmo Action 4 feature larger sensors and improved ISO performance, delivering clean footage in low light. Their 24fps mode often pairs well with night-lapse and low-light video features.
Do I need special editing software to work with 24fps action camera footage?
No, 24fps footage from the best action cameras is widely compatible with standard editing software like Adobe Premiere, Final Cut Pro, and DaVinci Resolve. Most platforms natively support 24fps timelines for seamless editing.
Is image stabilization important in a 24fps action camera?
Absolutely—image stabilization ensures smooth, shake-free 24fps footage, especially during high-motion activities. Cameras like the GoPro Hero12 Black offer HyperSmooth stabilization, which works seamlessly at 24fps for professional results.
