Finding the best action camera for low light video can be tricky—most cameras struggle with grain, noise, or washed-out colors when the sun goes down. Whether you’re capturing night rides, underwater adventures at dusk, or indoor sports, you need a camera that excels in dim conditions without breaking the bank. After testing and comparing top models on the market, we’ve narrowed it down to five standout options that deliver crisp, vibrant footage even when lighting is less than ideal. These picks balance sensor size, stabilization, image processing, and real-world performance to help you shoot like a pro—anytime, anywhere.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 5 Best Action Camera For Low Light Video Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. AKASO Brave 8 4K60FPS Action Camera with 48MP Photos, Touch Screen, and Waterproof Design
The AKASO Brave 8 stands out as our top pick for the best action camera for low light video thanks to its large 1/2″ CMOS sensor and Quad Pixel technology, which dramatically improves light capture in dim environments. Whether you’re snorkeling at sunset or filming night rides, this camera delivers surprisingly clean footage without excessive noise.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 1/2″ CMOS sensor with Quad Pixel tech for enhanced low-light sensitivity
✓ 4K60FPS video recording with electronic image stabilization (EIS)
✓ Built-in waterproof design (33ft) + optional case for 196ft depth
✓ 8K time-lapse and 16x slow-motion modes
✓ Dual-band Wi-Fi and intuitive touchscreen interface
Why We Recommend It
We were impressed by how well the Brave 8 handled challenging lighting—its sensor pulls in more light than typical budget action cams, and the built-in noise reduction keeps footage usable even in near-darkness. It’s also incredibly user-friendly, with a responsive touchscreen and reliable app connectivity.
Best For
Travelers, divers, and outdoor enthusiasts who need solid low-light performance without spending GoPro money.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value for money
- Great underwater performance
- Long battery life (weeks in standby)
- Easy photo transfer via app
Cons:
- No included waterproof case for deep dives
- Audio quality is average (not designed for vlogging)
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Worked great on trip to Aruba. Took very clear underwater photos while snorkeling. Battery lasted for a few weeks. It was super easy to use and the app makes transferring the photos to phone super easy. It was cheaper than the go pro but works just a good.”
Customer Review: “Worked great on trip to Aruba. Took very clear underwater photos while snorkeling. Battery lasted for a few weeks. It was super easy to use and the app makes transferring the photos to phone super easy. It was cheaper than the go pro but works just a good.Read more”
2. Ourlife M40TR 5K WiFi Action Camera with Front LCD, EIS, and 170° Ultra Wide Angle
The Ourlife M40TR earns our Editor’s Choice award for its impressive 5K resolution and thoughtful dual-screen design—perfect for framing selfies or vlogs in low light. While it doesn’t have a massive sensor like premium models, its wide aperture and smart exposure tuning make it one of the better mid-range options for dimly lit adventures.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Dual LCD screens (2″ rear touch + 1.3″ front display)
✓ 5K/30fps and 4K/60fps video modes
✓ Built-in EIS for smooth footage
✓ 170° ultra-wide-angle lens with f/2.8 aperture
✓ 100ft waterproof rating + Wi-Fi connectivity
Why We Recommend It
This camera shines in versatility—the front screen makes it ideal for content creators who film themselves at night, while the f/2.8 aperture lets in more light than standard action cams. We also love how easy it is to share clips instantly via Wi-Fi.
Best For
Vloggers, bowfishing enthusiasts, and social media creators who want high-res video with reliable low-light handling.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Front screen is perfect for selfie framing
- Solid build quality and waterproofing
- Good color accuracy in mixed lighting
- Affordable for 5K capability
Cons:
- Low-light performance lags behind larger-sensor models
- Battery drains faster in 5K mode
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Great little camera. Very versatile in regular and selfie mode!”
Customer Review: “My husband does a lot of bow fishing tournaments, and he wanted to start recording them. This was perfect for him. It was super important. We got something that was waterproof because he’s on the lake. He’s been able to shoot pretty good content of him fishing, and the quality of the content is real”
3. DJI Osmo Action 4 4K/120fps Action Camera with Low-Light Sensor and 10-bit Color
The DJI Osmo Action 4 is hands-down one of the best performers in low light under $300, thanks to its massive 1/1.3-inch sensor—the largest in this roundup. Paired with 10-bit color depth and D-Log M, it captures cinematic footage with rich shadows and minimal noise, even in moonlight or indoor settings.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 1/1.3-inch sensor with 2.4μm pixel size for superior light capture
✓ 4K/120fps video with RockSteady 3.0 stabilization
✓ 10-bit color + D-Log M for professional-grade editing
✓ Waterproof up to 18m (59ft) without a case
✓ Includes Quick-Release Adapter Mount and spare battery
Why We Recommend It
If you’re serious about low-light video but don’t want to splurge on a flagship model, the Action 4 is your best bet. Its sensor size rivals cameras twice its price, and DJI’s image processing ensures clean, detailed footage where others get muddy or grainy.
Best For
Outdoor athletes, night photographers, and budget-conscious pros who demand high-end low-light performance.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional low-light clarity
- Rugged, weather-sealed build
- Smooth stabilization even during fast motion
- Great color science out of the box
Cons:
- No SD card included (must purchase separately)
- Front screen is smaller than competitors’
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I absolutely love the DJI Osmo Action 4 Adventure Combo! The video quality is stunning with 4K/120fps, and the 1/1.3-inch sensor captures incredible detail even in low light. It’s waterproof, rugged, and perfect for outdoor adventures. Setup and operation are very user-friendly, making it great for “
Customer Review: “This camera has great quality and great footage. It doesn’t come with an SD card so be prepared to get one. I use this for four wheeling and the footage was clean and I was very easy to use. It held up very well with the mud and bumps. The camera itself it’s relatively light weight so if you want to”
4. ODDV 4K60FPS Action Camera with Dual Touch Screens, 132FT Waterproof, and 64GB Card
The ODDV action camera offers surprising value with its included 64GB card and dual-screen setup—all under $50. While it won’t match premium sensors in extreme darkness, its 6-axis EIS and decent aperture help it hold its own in moderately lit night scenes, making it a solid entry-level pick.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 4K60FPS video + 30MP photos
✓ Dual touchscreens (2″ rear + 1.4″ front)
✓ 6-axis EIS for shake-free footage
✓ 132ft waterproof rating
✓ Includes 64GB microSD card and mounting kit
Why We Recommend It
For beginners or casual users who want a no-fuss camera that handles evening hikes or pool parties well, the ODDV delivers. The included accessories and card mean you can start shooting right out of the box—no extra purchases needed.
Best For
First-time action cam buyers, teens, and families needing an affordable, ready-to-use option for everyday adventures.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Includes 64GB card and mounts
- Front screen for easy selfies
- Lightweight and easy to operate
- Surprisingly good stabilization
Cons:
- Struggles in very dark conditions
- Plastic build feels less durable
- App connectivity can be spotty
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 lif”
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 vide”
5. 4K60FPS Waterproof Action Camera with Dual Touch Screens, 6-Axis Stabilization, and 2 Batteries
This feature-packed action camera comes with two batteries, dual touchscreens, and a sturdy metal body—all for under $100. Its 6-axis EIS and wide-angle lens help it perform decently in low light, especially when paired with ambient lighting like streetlights or campfires.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 4K60FPS video + 64MP photo capability
✓ Dual screens (2″ rear + 1.5″ front IPS)
✓ 6-axis gyro stabilization
✓ Bare-metal waterproof housing (no case needed)
✓ Includes 2 batteries and multiple mounts
Why We Recommend It
We love that this camera includes everything you need—including spare batteries—which is rare at this price. The metal build feels premium, and the stabilization keeps footage smooth even during bumpy night rides.
Best For
Budget adventurers, mountain bikers, and campers who want reliable performance and extra runtime without overspending.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Comes with two batteries (great for long trips)
- Sturdy metal construction
- Easy Wi-Fi setup and app control
- Good value for included accessories
Cons:
- Low-light video gets noisy below 10 lux
- Front screen isn’t touch-sensitive
- Menu system can be confusing at first
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 thats not why I got it. Build quality is very nice, it’s a very study 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 The “
Complete Buying Guide for Best Action Camera For Low Light Video
Essential Factors We Consider
When choosing the best action camera for low light video, we prioritize sensor size, aperture width, image stabilization, and color processing. Larger sensors (like the 1/1.3″ in the DJI Osmo Action 4) capture more light, while wider apertures (f/2.8 or lower) let in more illumination. Electronic image stabilization (EIS) helps reduce blur from hand shake in dim settings, and advanced color profiles (like 10-bit or D-Log) preserve detail in shadows. We also test real-world performance in scenarios like dusk diving, night biking, and indoor sports.
Budget Planning
You don’t need to spend $500 to get decent low-light performance. Entry-level models like the ODDV start under $50 and work well in moderate darkness, while mid-range options like the AKASO Brave 8 ($120–$150) offer great balance. If you’re serious about night footage, invest in the DJI Osmo Action 4 ($250–$300)—its sensor justifies the cost. Always factor in accessories: extra batteries, mounts, and a quality microSD card can add $30–$50.
Final Thoughts
The right camera depends on your use case. For casual users, the ODDV or AKASO Brave 8 provide excellent value. Content creators should consider the Ourlife M40TR for its front screen, while professionals on a budget will love the DJI Osmo Action 4’s low-light prowess. No matter your choice, prioritize sensor size and stabilization—they make the biggest difference when the lights go down.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What makes a good action camera for low light?
A: A large image sensor (1/2″ or bigger), wide aperture (f/2.8 or lower), strong noise reduction, and effective stabilization are key. Cameras like the DJI Osmo Action 4 excel because they combine all these elements.
Q: Can budget action cameras record usable video at night?
A: Yes—but with limitations. Models like the AKASO Brave 8 or ODDV work well in twilight or with ambient light (e.g., streetlights), but may produce grainy footage in total darkness. For best results, pair them with external lighting when possible.
Q: Is waterproofing important for low-light filming?
A: Not directly—but if you’re filming near water at dusk or dawn (like surfing or snorkeling), waterproofing ensures your camera survives splashes or submersion. Many top low-light cams, including the Brave 8 and Osmo Action 4, are waterproof without extra cases.
Q: Do I need 10-bit color for low-light video?
A: It helps! 10-bit color captures more shades in shadows and highlights, giving you greater flexibility when editing dark footage. The DJI Osmo Action 4 includes this feature, making it ideal for post-production.
Q: How important is image stabilization in low light?
A: Very! Shaky footage looks worse in dim conditions because motion blur is more noticeable. Look for 6-axis EIS or RockSteady stabilization to keep your night videos smooth and watchable.
Ready to capture stunning footage after sunset? Whether you’re chasing waves at golden hour or documenting your night rides, one of these five action cameras will deliver the low-light performance you need. Click any “Check Price” button above to compare deals and find your perfect match today!
