Top 10 Good Action Camera Apps for Stunning Footage in 2026

Discover the top 10 action camera apps of 2024 that deliver stunning, professional-grade footage with intuitive controls and powerful editing tools. From real-time stabilization to AI-enhanced color grading, these good action camera apps seamlessly connect to your device, letting you capture, edit, and share high-octane adventures instantly—whether you’re diving, biking, or skydiving. Elevate your content game with apps designed for speed, quality, and creativity.

Key Takeaways

• Choose apps with real-time editing for instant, stunning footage adjustments on the go.
• Prioritize stabilization features to ensure smooth videos even in high-motion scenarios.
• Opt for multi-platform support to seamlessly transfer and edit across devices.
• Look for AI-powered enhancements that auto-optimize lighting, contrast, and colors.
• Use cloud backup integrations to securely save and share your best clips effortlessly.
• Select apps with live streaming to broadcast adventures in real time to your audience.

Why the Right App Makes All the Difference for Your Action Camera

Let’s be real: you didn’t spend hundreds on an action camera just to record shaky, poorly edited clips that end up forgotten on a hard drive. You bought it to capture real moments—the kind that make you laugh, gasp, or even cry when you watch them back. Whether you’re skydiving, surfing, biking down a mountain, or just chasing your kids through the park, your footage deserves to shine. But here’s the thing: even the most expensive action camera is only as good as the tools you use to control, edit, and share what it captures. That’s where good action camera apps come in.

Think of your action camera app as your backstage crew. It’s not the star, but without it, the show can’t go on. These apps help you start and stop recording remotely, adjust settings on the fly, preview your shots in real time, stabilize footage, add effects, and even share your adventures instantly. In 2024, the best action camera apps aren’t just remote controls—they’re full-featured production studios in your pocket. And the good news? Many of them are free or offer excellent value with their premium upgrades. So if you’ve ever felt frustrated trying to frame the perfect shot while your camera’s mounted on your helmet or handlebars, or if you’ve spent hours editing clips just to make them watchable, this guide is for you.

What Makes an Action Camera App “Good”?

Before we dive into the top picks, let’s talk about what actually makes a good action camera app. It’s not just about having a flashy interface or a long list of features. A truly great app solves real problems—like poor connectivity, confusing menus, or clunky editing—while making your creative process smoother and more enjoyable.

Reliability and Connectivity

Nothing’s worse than trying to start recording only to find your phone and camera aren’t talking to each other. A good app connects quickly and stays connected, even in motion. Look for apps that use Wi-Fi or Bluetooth efficiently, with minimal lag. For example, GoPro’s Quik app has improved its pairing process over the years, and DJI’s Mimo now supports dual-band Wi-Fi for faster transfers. If your camera disconnects mid-ride or mid-dive, you’ve lost the moment—and that’s a dealbreaker.

User-Friendly Interface

You’re not editing a documentary in a studio. You’re on a trail, at a beach, or in the middle of a race. Your app needs to be intuitive. Buttons should be big, menus should be clear, and settings should be easy to find. I once used a third-party app that buried the “start recording” button under three submenus. By the time I found it, the mountain biker I was filming had already disappeared over the ridge. A good app puts the essentials front and center.

Real-Time Preview and Remote Control

This is a game-changer. Being able to see what your camera sees from your phone means you can frame shots perfectly, even when the camera’s mounted in hard-to-reach places. DJI’s Osmo Action 4, for instance, pairs with the Mimo app to give you a live feed with minimal delay. This is especially helpful for vlog-style setups or when you’re using a selfie stick and need to make sure your face is in frame.

Editing Tools and AI Features

Modern apps don’t just control your camera—they help you edit. Features like auto-trimming, stabilization, speed ramping, and AI-powered highlight detection save you hours. GoPro’s Quik app, for example, can scan your footage and automatically create a polished video with music and transitions. That’s huge if you’re posting to Instagram or TikTok and don’t have time to edit manually.

Cloud Integration and Sharing

Once your video is ready, you want to share it fast. Apps that integrate with cloud storage (like Google Drive, iCloud, or Dropbox) or social platforms (YouTube, TikTok, Instagram) make this easy. Some even let you upload directly from the app. DJI’s Mimo app, for instance, lets you post to YouTube with just a few taps. No need to transfer files to your computer first.

Top 10 Good Action Camera Apps in 2024

Now that you know what to look for, let’s get into the list. These are the best good action camera apps available right now, tested across different brands, budgets, and use cases. Whether you’re a pro filmmaker or a weekend adventurer, there’s something here for you.

1. GoPro Quik (iOS/Android)

GoPro’s Quik app is the gold standard for a reason. It’s sleek, fast, and packed with smart features. The app connects to any GoPro (from Hero9 up) and lets you control recording, change modes, and preview footage in real time. But where Quik really shines is in editing. Its AI-powered “Highlight” tool scans your clips and picks the best moments—perfect for creating quick social media content. You can also add music, text, transitions, and even adjust speed with a tap. The free version is surprisingly powerful, though the $9.99/month Quik Pro subscription unlocks 100+ music tracks, premium filters, and unlimited cloud backups.

Best for: GoPro users who want fast, professional-looking edits with minimal effort.

Tip: Use the “Auto-Upload” feature to back up your clips automatically when connected to Wi-Fi.

2. DJI Mimo (iOS/Android)

DJI’s Mimo app is the perfect companion for Osmo Action, Pocket, and Ronin users. The interface is clean and modern, with a live preview that’s impressively low-latency. You can adjust ISO, shutter speed, and white balance remotely—great for low-light or changing conditions. The app also includes a “Story” mode, which gives you pre-made templates for vlogs, travel videos, and more. Just shoot your clips, and the app assembles them with music and effects. The AI tracking feature keeps your subject in frame, even when you’re moving fast.

Best for: DJI camera owners who want creative control and smart editing tools.

Tip: Enable “Quick Capture” in settings to start recording with a single tap from the lock screen.

3. Insta360 App (iOS/Android)

If you’re using an Insta360 camera (like the One RS or X3), this app is a must. It’s not just a remote control—it’s a full 360° video studio. You can refocus your shots in post, extract flat 16:9 videos, and even create “Tiny Planet” effects with a swipe. The app also supports AI-powered object tracking, so you can follow a surfer or a skateboarder without moving the camera. One standout feature is the “AI Edit” tool, which analyzes your footage and suggests edits based on motion, faces, and scenery.

Best for: 360° camera users who want creative flexibility and advanced editing.

Tip: Use the “Deep Track” mode for smoother tracking of fast-moving subjects.

4. Sony Imaging Edge Mobile (iOS/Android)

Sony’s app is often overlooked, but it’s surprisingly powerful. It works with Sony’s action cameras (like the RX0 II) and even some mirrorless models. The app offers full manual control over exposure, focus, and white balance, which is rare in action camera apps. You can also use it as a wireless mic for vlogging. The interface is a bit more technical than others, but if you’re into photography, you’ll appreciate the depth. One downside: it can be slow to connect at first, so give it a minute.

Best for: Sony camera users who want pro-level control and RAW support.

Tip: Enable “Auto Transfer” to back up your clips to your phone automatically.

5. Yi Action (iOS/Android)

Yi (now rebranded as Kami) makes solid budget action cameras, and their app is just as user-friendly. It’s simple and reliable, with a clean layout and fast pairing. You can preview footage, change modes, and even set up time-lapse or loop recording. The app also includes basic editing tools—trim, rotate, add music—which is great if you’re on a tight budget. It lacks some of the AI features of pricier apps, but it gets the job done.

Best for: Budget-conscious users who want a no-nonsense app.

Tip: Use the “Quick Share” button to send clips to WhatsApp or WeChat instantly.

6. Garmin VIRB Edit (iOS/Android)

Garmin’s VIRB app is built for athletes and adventurers. It integrates with Garmin’s fitness trackers and GPS devices, so you can overlay speed, altitude, heart rate, and more onto your videos. This is perfect for mountain bikers, skiers, or hikers who want to show off their stats. The app also has strong stabilization tools and lets you create multi-cam edits (if you have multiple Garmin cameras). The interface is a bit clunky, but the data-rich overlays are worth it.

Best for: Outdoor athletes who want to add performance data to their videos.

Tip: Sync your Garmin watch to automatically tag your footage with location and activity data.

7. Akaso GO (iOS/Android)

Akaso’s app is another budget-friendly option. It’s compatible with most Akaso and SJCAM models and offers basic remote control and editing. The interface is straightforward, with large buttons for recording, photo, and mode switching. You can also preview footage and transfer files over Wi-Fi. It’s not as polished as GoPro or DJI apps, but it’s reliable and free. One nice touch: the app remembers your last settings, so you don’t have to reconfigure every time.

Best for: Entry-level users or those with older action cameras.

Tip: Use the “File Manager” to delete clips directly from your phone and free up space.

8. SJCAM Zone (iOS/Android)

SJCAM’s app is similar to Akaso’s but with a few extra features. It supports real-time preview, remote control, and basic editing. The app also includes a “Live Streaming” mode, which lets you broadcast directly to YouTube or Facebook. This is great if you’re doing live vlogs or adventure streams. The interface is a bit outdated, but it works well for what it is.

Best for: Live streamers or users who want to go live from their action camera.

Tip: Test your connection before going live—Wi-Fi can be unstable in remote areas.

9. VIRB Mobile (iOS/Android)

Wait, didn’t we already mention Garmin VIRB? Yes, but this is the newer, updated version. It’s faster, more responsive, and has a cleaner interface than the older VIRB Edit. It still includes all the data overlay features, but now with better AI stabilization and easier sharing. The app also supports voice commands (“Start recording” or “Take a photo”), which is handy when your hands are busy.

Best for: Garmin users who want a modern, responsive app with data integration.

Tip: Use voice commands in noisy environments—they work surprisingly well.

10. Open Camera (Android Only)

Yes, it’s not brand-specific, but Open Camera is a hidden gem for Android users. It’s open-source, free, and works with many third-party action cameras via Wi-Fi or USB. You can control resolution, frame rate, and audio settings, and even use it as a remote viewfinder. It’s not as polished as the others, but it’s incredibly flexible. Great for tinkerers or if your brand’s official app is buggy.

Best for: Android users who want a free, customizable app.

Tip: Pair it with a Wi-Fi adapter for better remote control range.

How to Choose the Right App for Your Needs

With so many options, how do you pick the best one? It depends on your priorities. Let’s break it down.

Brand Compatibility

First and foremost, make sure the app works with your camera. GoPro users should stick with Quik, DJI users with Mimo, and so on. Third-party apps like Open Camera can work, but they’re not always optimized for your model.

Your Skill Level

If you’re new to action cameras, go for an app with simple controls and guided editing (like Quik or Mimo). If you’re more experienced, you might prefer apps with manual settings (like Sony Imaging Edge or Insta360).

Editing Needs

Do you want to edit on your phone, or do you prefer using desktop software? Apps with strong mobile editing (Quik, Mimo, Insta360) are great for quick social posts. If you’re doing heavy editing later, you might not need advanced tools in the app.

Budget

Most apps are free, but some have premium features. Decide if you’re willing to pay for extras like cloud storage, music tracks, or advanced AI tools. GoPro’s Quik Pro is worth it if you post often. Others, like Yi Action, offer everything you need for free.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Action Camera App

Now that you’ve picked your app, here are some pro tips to make your footage even better.

Use the App to Frame Your Shots

Mount your camera, then use the live preview to adjust the angle. This is especially helpful for selfie sticks, helmet cams, or chest mounts.

Save Your Favorite Settings

Most apps let you save custom profiles (e.g., “Skiing – 4K, 60fps, HyperSmooth”). Save a few presets so you don’t have to reconfigure every time.

Enable Auto-Upload

Back up your clips to your phone or cloud automatically. You’ll never lose footage to a lost or damaged camera.

Use AI Editing Wisely

AI tools are great, but don’t rely on them completely. Review the auto-edited video and tweak it to match your style.

Keep Your App Updated

Manufacturers often release updates that fix bugs, improve connectivity, and add new features. Check for updates monthly.

Comparison Table: Top Action Camera Apps at a Glance

App Name	Best For	Key Feature	Price	Platform
GoPro Quik	Fast editing, social sharing	AI highlight detection	Free / $9.99/month	iOS, Android
DJI Mimo	Creative control, live preview	Story mode templates	Free / In-app purchases	iOS, Android
Insta360 App	360° editing, reframing	AI object tracking	Free / In-app purchases	iOS, Android
Sony Imaging Edge	Manual control, RAW support	Wireless mic feature	Free	iOS, Android
Yi Action	Budget users, simplicity	Quick share to messaging apps	Free	iOS, Android
Garmin VIRB	Data overlays, athlete tracking	Performance metrics	Free	iOS, Android

Final Thoughts: Your Footage Deserves the Best App

At the end of the day, your action camera is only as good as the app you use to control it. The right good action camera app can turn shaky, forgettable clips into cinematic masterpieces—without hours of editing. Whether you’re a weekend warrior, a travel vlogger, or a professional content creator, there’s an app on this list that fits your needs.

Remember: it’s not about having the most features. It’s about having the right features—ones that make your life easier, your footage better, and your stories more engaging. So take the time to try a few apps, see how they feel, and find the one that just clicks. Because when you’re out there chasing the next adventure, you don’t want to be fighting with your technology. You want to be capturing the moment—and sharing it with the world.

Now go grab your camera, fire up your app, and start creating something amazing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best good action camera apps for 2024?

The top 10 good action camera apps in 2024 include GoPro Quik, DJI Mimo, Insta360, and Akaso Go, offering advanced editing tools, stabilization, and seamless connectivity. These apps are optimized for high-quality footage and user-friendly interfaces.

Can I edit 4K videos directly from my action camera app?

Yes, most modern action camera apps like GoPro Quik and DJI Mimo support 4K video editing with features like speed ramping, color correction, and audio syncing. They ensure professional-grade output without needing a computer.

Are there free good action camera apps with no watermark?

Apps like Open Camera and FiLMiC Pro offer free versions without watermarks, though premium features may require a subscription. Many budget-friendly options provide robust editing tools for action footage.

How do action camera apps improve video stabilization?

Good action camera apps use AI-powered stabilization algorithms (e.g., HyperSmooth in GoPro Quik) to smooth shaky footage. Some apps also allow manual adjustment for finer control over stabilization levels.

Which app works best for live-streaming from an action camera?

DJI Mimo and Insta360 are top choices for live-streaming, offering real-time filters, multi-platform sharing, and stable connections. Both integrate seamlessly with their respective action cameras.

Do I need a specific app for my action camera brand?

While most action camera apps are cross-compatible, brand-specific apps (e.g., GoPro Quik for GoPros) unlock exclusive features like firmware updates and advanced presets. Always check compatibility for optimal performance.