In 2018, action cameras reached a new peak in performance, durability, and value—offering 4K video, waterproof designs, and advanced stabilization at prices that finally made high-quality POV footage accessible to everyday adventurers. Whether you’re snorkeling in tropical waters, shredding mountain trails, or capturing family moments on the go, the best action camera 2018 delivers crisp visuals, rugged reliability, and smart features like night mode and dual screens. We’ve tested and compared the top models to help you find the perfect match for your lifestyle and budget.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 5 Best Action Camera 2018 Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Best 4K Action Camera 2018 with 1/1.3″ Sensor, 65ft Waterproof, Night View, and Stabilization
This action camera stands out as the top pick for 2018 thanks to its large 1/1.3″ sensor that captures stunning detail even in low light. Whether you’re diving, hiking, or filming at dusk, it delivers smooth 4K video and reliable performance in a rugged, waterproof body.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 1/1.3″ sensor for superior low-light clarity
- ✓ 4K video at 60fps with electronic image stabilization
- ✓ 65ft waterproof rating—no housing needed
- ✓ Night View mode enhances dark scenes naturally
- ✓ Durable build ideal for daily adventures
Why We Recommend It
We love how this camera balances professional-grade image quality with user-friendly operation. The night mode is a game-changer for evening rides or campfire videos, and the stabilization keeps footage smooth even on bumpy trails.
Best For
Outdoor enthusiasts who want reliable 4K performance in all lighting conditions, especially low-light environments like forests or nighttime cityscapes.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent low-light performance
- True waterproof design up to 65ft
- Smooth 4K60fps video with stabilization
- Simple interface, great for beginners
Cons:
- Lacks front-facing screen for vlogging
- Battery life could be longer for extended shoots
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I bought this camera for myself as a birthday gift because it was on promotion, and honestly, I didn’t expect too much at first. But it turned out way better than I thought. I brought it with me to Hawaii for snorkeling, and the video quality really surprised me. The underwater footage came out super clear—even the colors looked vibrant!”
Customer Review: “I recently got the Xtra Action Camera, and honestly, it’s been a blast to use. Right out of the box, it feels solid and well-made, and it’s not overly complicated to set up, which I really appreciated. The 1/1.3” sensor is definitely a standout feature—it captures photos and videos with great clarity.”
2. DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro 4K Action Camera 2018 with 1/1.3″ Sensor, 120fps Video, and Dual Touchscreens
DJI brings its drone expertise to action cameras with the Osmo Action 5 Pro, featuring a massive 1/1.3″ sensor and dual touchscreens for flawless framing. It shoots buttery-smooth 4K at 120fps and excels in urban night photography, making it perfect for content creators who demand versatility.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Massive 1/1.3″ sensor for rich low-light detail
- ✓ Dual touchscreens (front and rear) for easy vlogging
- ✓ 4K video at 120fps for slow-motion magic
- ✓ Enhanced subject tracking via 4nm chip
- ✓ Long-lasting battery with quick charge support
Why We Recommend It
This camera is ideal for creators who want cinematic quality without carrying extra gear. The front screen makes solo filming effortless, and the night mode captures cityscapes and dimly lit streets with surprising clarity.
Best For
Vloggers, urban adventurers, and travelers who need a compact yet powerful camera that performs equally well in daylight and nighttime settings.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Outstanding low-light performance
- Dual screens simplify selfie and group shots
- High frame rate enables smooth slow-mo
- Robust build with reliable stabilization
Cons:
- Requires DJI Mimo app activation (not on Google Play)
- Slightly heavier than budget alternatives
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “So far I love it. I used a GoPro2 many years ago, and this is so much better. I have used a GoPro Max a little as well since then. It’s heavier than I expected but not too heavy. Easy to get up and go. 4K recording is awesome. Lots of accessories available. The battery lasts very long, though I have noticed it drains faster in cold weather.”
Customer Review: “This is a fantastic and amazing camera! It has a lot of different options in terms of filming, 1080 to 2K, all the way to 4K—all with two types of ratio, 16:9 or 3:4 I believe. Different options will yield different maximum duration of recording (and data size), but great that it comes with internal storage flexibility.”
3. 4K60FPS Action Camera 2018 with Front LCD, 132ft Waterproof, EIS, and 64GB Memory Card
Don’t let the price fool you—this budget-friendly action camera delivers premium features like a front LCD, 132ft waterproofing, and 64GB of included storage. It’s perfect for families, casual adventurers, or anyone wanting reliable 4K recording without breaking the bank.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Dual screens: 2.0″ rear touchscreen + 1.4″ front LCD
- ✓ 4K video at 60fps with six-axis EIS stabilization
- ✓ 132ft waterproof—ideal for snorkeling and swimming
- ✓ Includes 64GB memory card and mounting accessories
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to operate
Why We Recommend It
For under $50, this camera punches well above its weight. The front screen is a rare find at this price, making it great for selfies and vlogs, while the included memory card saves you an extra purchase.
Best For
Families, teens, and first-time action cam users who want solid 4K performance, waterproof protection, and vlogging-friendly features on a tight budget.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Includes 64GB memory card and mounts
- Front screen enables easy selfie framing
- Strong stabilization for smooth footage
- Excellent value for money
Cons:
- Plastic body feels less premium
- Audio quality is average (expected at this price)
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This camera is such a fun find! For under $50, I wasn’t expecting much, but the video quality is solid and the waterproof design really works—I tested it in the pool with no issues. It’s lightweight, easy to use, and perfect for capturing outdoor adventures without worrying about damage. Battery life is decent for short trips.”
Customer Review: “This underwater action camera is amazing! The dual LCD screens are a total game changer—the front screen is perfect for selfies or vlogging, and the rear touchscreen is super responsive and easy to navigate. I haven’t been able to test out the video quality underwater yet, but since the regular video looks crisp, I’m confident it’ll perform well.”
4. 4K Waterproof Action Camera 2018 with Dual Touch Screens, 6-Axis Stabilization, and 2 Batteries
Packed with dual touchscreens, two batteries, and metal-body durability, this action camera is built for extended adventures. It captures sharp 4K60fps video and includes six-axis EIS to eliminate shake—even during high-speed activities like mountain biking or skiing.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Dual touchscreens: 2.0″ rear + 1.5″ front IPS
- ✓ 4K60fps video with 6-axis electronic stabilization
- ✓ Includes two rechargeable batteries
- ✓ Metal body with all-weather waterproof design
- ✓ Comes with multiple mounting accessories
Why We Recommend It
The inclusion of two batteries is a huge plus for travelers and athletes who can’t afford downtime. Combined with the sturdy build and responsive screens, this camera offers excellent mid-range value.
Best For
Outdoor athletes, road trippers, and content creators who need reliable performance, extra battery life, and durable construction for multi-day adventures.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Two batteries included—great for long shoots
- Metal body feels premium and durable
- Strong stabilization and clear 4K output
- Multiple mounts included out of the box
Cons:
- Slightly bulkier than mini alternatives
- No night mode or advanced low-light features
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “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—perfect for bikes, helmets, and handlebars.”
5. Mini 4K Action Camera 2018 with EIS, Wearable POV Design, and Waterproof for Outdoor Adventures
Small enough to clip onto your shirt or hat, this mini action camera delivers big results. With magnetic mounting, 4K video, EIS stabilization, and waterproof protection, it’s perfect for hands-free POV footage during cycling, hiking, or skiing.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Magnetic clip for hands-free wearable mounting
- ✓ Pocket-sized design—lightweight and portable
- ✓ 4K video with electronic image stabilization
- ✓ Waterproof for outdoor and water sports
- ✓ Large storage capacity supports long recordings
Why We Recommend It
Its tiny size and secure magnetic mount make it ideal for capturing natural, first-person perspectives without bulky gear. Great for athletes who want minimal distraction and maximum freedom.
Best For
Cyclists, hikers, and outdoor adventurers who want a discreet, wearable camera that captures smooth POV footage without added weight or complexity.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Ultra-compact and lightweight
- Magnetic mount stays secure during movement
- Smooth stabilized 4K video
- Waterproof for all-weather use
Cons:
- No screen for playback or framing
- Limited manual controls compared to larger models
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Good little camera. Just what I was looking for. Easy to use.”
Customer Review: “This action camera is highly recommended. When worn on the chest, it offers a very natural POV perspective, allowing for smooth recording while cycling. It’s also waterproof. Its large storage capacity means you don’t have to worry about storage space even during extended use. The image quality is high and consistent.”
Complete Buying Guide for Best Action Camera 2018
Essential Factors We Consider
When choosing the best action camera 2018, we prioritize video resolution (4K is ideal), sensor size (larger sensors like 1/1.3″ perform better in low light), waterproof depth, stabilization technology, battery life, and ease of use. Features like front screens, dual batteries, and included accessories add significant value, especially for vloggers and travelers.
Budget Planning
Action cameras in 2018 range from under $50 to over $300. Budget models offer solid 4K and basic waterproofing, while premium options include night modes, dual screens, and advanced stabilization. Consider your use case: casual family trips may only need a budget pick, while serious creators should invest in models with better sensors and durability.
Final Thoughts
The right action camera depends on your adventure style. Whether you need night vision, vlogging screens, or ultra-portable design, 2018 delivered impressive options across all price points. Focus on what matters most—image quality, durability, or convenience—and you’ll capture memories that last a lifetime.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use these action cameras underwater without a case?
A: Yes! All the cameras listed are waterproof to at least 65ft (20m) without needing an external housing, making them safe for snorkeling, swimming, and shallow diving.
Q: Do any of these cameras have a front screen for vlogging?
A: Yes—the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro, the 4K60FPS model with front LCD, and the 4K waterproof camera with dual touchscreens all include front-facing displays, perfect for framing selfies and vlogs.
Q: What’s the benefit of a 1/1.3″ sensor?
A: A larger sensor like 1/1.3″ captures more light, resulting in clearer photos and videos—especially in low-light conditions like dusk, forests, or nighttime urban settings.
Q: Are these cameras compatible with GoPro mounts?
A: Most use standard action camera mounting systems and are compatible with universal or GoPro-style mounts, though always check the included accessories or adapter compatibility.
Q: How long does the battery last on a single charge?
A: Battery life varies by model and usage, but expect 60–90 minutes of continuous 4K recording. Models with two batteries (like #4) offer extended shooting time.
Ready to capture your next adventure in stunning 4K? Whether you’re diving, biking, or vlogging, one of these top-rated best action camera 2018 picks will deliver professional-quality footage with ease. Click any “Check Price” button above to compare deals and find your perfect match today!
