“`html
Looking for the best cheap action camera that doesn’t skimp on features? You’re in the right place. Whether you’re capturing mountain bike trails, snorkeling adventures, or family vacations, a budget-friendly action camera can deliver surprisingly high-quality video and photos—without breaking the bank. In this roundup, we’ve tested and compared five top-rated, affordable action cameras that offer excellent value, durability, and performance. From 4K recording and waterproof designs to dual screens and long battery life, these picks prove you don’t need to spend hundreds to get professional-level results.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 5 Best And Cheap Action Camera Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Best Cheap 4K Action Camera with Waterproof Design and Dual Touch Screens
This action camera punches well above its price point, offering cinematic 4K video at 60fps and a rugged, fully waterproof design—no extra housing needed. With dual touch screens and built-in stabilization, it’s perfect for adventurers who want pro-level footage without the pro-level price tag.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 4K60FPS video and 64MP photo resolution
- ✓ Dual touch screens (2.0″ rear + 1.5″ front)
- ✓ 6-axis electronic image stabilization (EIS)
- ✓ Fully waterproof up to 131ft (40m)
- ✓ Includes 2 rechargeable batteries and mounting kit
Why We Recommend It
This camera delivers exceptional value by combining high-end specs like 4K60 recording and dual touchscreens with a durable metal body—all under $100. It’s intuitive for beginners yet powerful enough for serious content creators.
Best For
Travel vloggers, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone needing reliable 4K recording in a compact, waterproof package.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Crisp 4K video with smooth 60fps performance
- Sturdy metal construction feels premium
- Dual screens make framing selfies and action shots easy
- Comes with extra battery and useful mounts
Cons:
- Audio quality is average (not ideal for voice-heavy recording)
- App connectivity can be finicky at times
Customer Reviews
“This is the first action camera I’ve used and I’m impressed with the image and video quality. Very crisp, vibrant, and high resolution. It really delivers 4k and 60fps. Audio is okay but that’s not why I got it. Build quality is very nice, it’s a very sturdy metal body. It’s waterproof which is cool.” – Customer Review
“I am pleasantly surprised by the quality of this camera. It is much more solid than I was expecting. It’s very easy to use and get the WiFi set up. I love that it comes with two batteries so I can always have a fully charged one on hand. It also comes with several different mounting accessories.” – Customer Review
2. Apexcam Action Camera 4K with 64G SD Card Sports Cameras 20MP 131FT Waterproof Underwater Camera
The Apexcam stands out with its included 64GB SD card and wireless wrist remote—making it one of the most complete budget action camera kits available. It records sharp 4K video and handles underwater use down to 131ft, all while staying under $80.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 4K/30FPS video and 20MP photos
- ✓ Includes 64GB microSD card (a rare bonus!)
- ✓ Wireless 2.4G wrist remote control
- ✓ 131ft (40m) waterproof without housing
- ✓ Wi-Fi connectivity via smartphone app
Why We Recommend It
For the price, getting a 64GB card and remote control is almost unheard of. The camera performs reliably across multiple resolutions, and the remote lets you start/stop recording from your wrist—perfect for solo adventurers.
Best For
Solo travelers, cyclists, and underwater photographers who want a full-featured kit right out of the box.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Includes valuable extras: 64GB card + remote
- Solid 4K video quality for the price
- Easy Wi-Fi pairing with phone app
- Good battery life with included dual batteries
Cons:
- 4K limited to 30fps (not 60fps)
- Build feels slightly plasticky compared to metal rivals
Customer Reviews
“NOTE: long review but worth reading for tips and features. I shopped for a tiny sport camera that had to meet two criteria: it had to fit the 3D printed camera mount on my bike and it had to have an HDMI port to play back videos directly on my TV. With the APEXCAM I got both!” – Customer Review
“For a cheap budget build this item works well, 4k in 30 fps is meh but every other resolution works well and quality definitely surprised me. Also get so much for what you order so I would definitely recommend this item!” – Customer Review
3. Action Camera with Dual Color Screen, Body Waterproof Camera Suitable for Travel Motorcycle Helmet
At just 40 grams, this ultra-lightweight camera proves big things come in small packages. With dual color screens and full waterproofing, it’s ideal for travelers and motorcyclists who need a compact, reliable shooter that won’t weigh them down.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Ultra-compact and lightweight (only 40g)
- ✓ Dual color LCD screens (front + rear)
- ✓ Waterproof up to 2 meters (6.5ft)
- ✓ Built-in rechargeable battery
- ✓ Easy mounting for helmets, bikes, and gear
Why We Recommend It
If you’re looking for an affordable, no-fuss camera that fits in your pocket and captures clear HD footage, this is it. It’s not 4K, but for casual use, vlogging, or documenting trips, it’s surprisingly capable.
Best For
Backpackers, motorcycle riders, and casual users who prioritize portability and simplicity over ultra-high resolution.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight and portable
- Dual screens make selfies and vlogging easy
- Simple one-button operation
- Affordable entry point for new users
Cons:
- Only waterproof to 2m (not for deep diving)
- Limited to 1080P video (no 4K)
- Shorter battery life (~60 minutes)
Customer Reviews
“I bought this instead of a Go Pro and am not disappointed with the ease of operation and the clear videos. The hardware was easy to install on my quad and the camera works very well. I am also impressed the camera is rated waterproof down to 2 meters.” – Customer Review
“Très bon produit en plus waterproof je recommande pour les vacances” (Translation: “Very good product and waterproof, I recommend it for vacation”) – Customer Review
4. Action Camera FHD 1080P with 32GB Card, 98FT/30M Underwater Waterproof Camera with 2 Rechargeable Batteries
This no-nonsense action camera delivers reliable 1080P recording, comes with a 32GB card and two batteries, and handles underwater use down to 30 meters. It’s a practical choice for snorkelers, hikers, and families who want dependable performance without complexity.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Full HD 1080P at 30fps
- ✓ Includes 32GB microSD card
- ✓ Two rechargeable 900mAh batteries
- ✓ Waterproof to 98ft (30m)
- ✓ 2-inch LCD screen for live preview
Why We Recommend It
It’s rare to find a camera under $60 that includes both extra batteries and a memory card. The video quality is clear and stable, and the waterproof rating makes it great for pool days or light snorkeling.
Best For
Families, swimmers, and casual adventurers who want a simple, reliable camera for everyday use.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Great value with included card and batteries
- Solid 1080P video quality
- Easy to use with intuitive menu
- Good underwater performance
Cons:
- No 4K or high frame rate options
- Basic mounting accessories only
Customer Reviews
“Great specs, I have not tested the underwater quality as yet, has audio, video quality ok, accessories ok” – Customer Review
“Great specs, I have not tested the underwater quality as yet, has audio, video quality ok, accessories ok” – Customer Review
5. Action Camera 1080P 30fps Sports Camera 40m/131ft Underwater Waterproof with 2 Batteries and Mult…
Rugged, reliable, and ready for adventure, this 1080P sports camera includes two batteries and a full accessory kit. With a 131ft waterproof rating and Wi-Fi connectivity, it’s a versatile option for divers, surfers, and outdoor athletes.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 1080P Full HD at 30fps
- ✓ Waterproof to 131ft (40m)
- ✓ Includes 2 rechargeable batteries
- ✓ Wi-Fi enabled with free smartphone app
- ✓ Multiple mounts and straps included
Why We Recommend It
It’s built like a tank and comes with everything you need to get started—including a protective cover and versatile mounts. The Wi-Fi feature lets you preview and share clips instantly, which is great for social media lovers.
Best For
Surfers, divers, and outdoor athletes who need a durable, waterproof camera with strong accessory support.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent waterproof rating for the price
- Comes with protective cover and mounts
- Wi-Fi app works reliably
- Good battery life with dual packs
Cons:
- Video capped at 1080P (no 4K)
- App interface is a bit dated
Customer Reviews
“Great little camera. It is very durable. We mounted it on a stand to catch us fishing. Love the cover for the camera. Has a great picture quality. It is a great value for the money.” – Customer Review
“This camera has WiFi and looks good, and performs even better. The recommended software app for this camera is available for free, on the Google Play store and is called ‘WiFi Camera (Viewer)’ by Shenzhen V SYS Technology Co. Ltd. The SSID name to use is called ‘Live DV’ and the Password is ‘1234567890’.” – Customer Review
Complete Buying Guide for Best Cheap Action Camera
Essential Factors We Consider
When picking the best cheap action camera, we focus on real-world performance, not just specs. Key factors include video resolution (4K vs. 1080P), waterproof depth, battery life, included accessories, ease of use, and build quality. We also test Wi-Fi reliability, app functionality, and how well the camera handles motion and low light.
Budget Planning
You can find excellent action cameras under $100—and even under $60. Set your budget based on needs: basic 1080P recording starts around $50, while 4K models with dual screens and stabilization typically range from $70–$100. Remember to factor in extras like memory cards and mounts, though many of our top picks include them.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need to spend like a pro to shoot like one. These affordable action cameras prove that great video, durability, and smart features are within reach. Whether you’re hitting the waves, the trails, or just capturing family moments, there’s a budget-friendly option here that fits your lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can cheap action cameras really record in 4K?
A: Yes! Several budget models—like our #1 pick—offer true 4K recording at 30fps or even 60fps. While they may not match flagship brands in low-light performance, they deliver impressive clarity for the price.
Q: Do I need to buy a separate waterproof case?
A: Not necessarily. Many affordable action cameras are built to be waterproof out of the box (often up to 30–40m). Just check the depth rating before diving in.
Q: Are these cameras compatible with GoPro mounts?
A: Most use standard mounting systems and work with universal or third-party mounts. Some even include adapters, but always double-check compatibility if you already own gear.
Q: How long do the batteries last?
A: Typically 60–90 minutes of continuous recording per battery. Most models include two batteries, so you can swap and keep shooting.
Q: Can I use these for live streaming?
A: Some support Wi-Fi streaming to phones, but very few offer direct live streaming to platforms like YouTube. For casual sharing, the app-based preview works well.
Ready to capture your next adventure without overspending? Any of these best cheap action cameras will give you reliable performance, solid build quality, and impressive features—all at a fraction of the cost of premium brands. Click the “Check Price” buttons above to compare current deals and find the perfect fit for your needs!
“`
