Looking for the best action camera with zoom? Whether you’re capturing mountain bike trails, snorkeling underwater, or vlogging your travels, having reliable zoom capability makes all the difference. Unlike standard action cams that rely solely on wide-angle shots, the latest models now include impressive digital zoom—some up to 8X—without sacrificing too much image quality. After testing multiple units in real-world conditions, we’ve rounded up the top-performing action cameras with zoom that deliver crisp 4K video, solid stabilization, and rugged waterproof designs. Let’s dive into our expert picks!
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 7 Best Action Camera With Zoom Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. 4K 60fps Waterproof Action Camera with Dual Touch Screens and 6-Axis Stabilization
This action camera stands out with its dual touch screens and robust build, making it ideal for vloggers and adventurers who want flexibility. It captures crisp 4K video at 60fps and includes advanced 6-axis stabilization for smooth footage even on bumpy trails.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Dual-screen design: 2.0″ rear + 1.5″ front IPS display
- ✓ 6-axis EIS stabilization for ultra-smooth video
- ✓ Waterproof up to 10 meters without a housing
- ✓ Includes 2 rechargeable batteries and mounting kit
Why We Recommend It
Perfect for content creators, this camera lets you frame yourself easily with the front screen while delivering pro-level video quality. The metal body feels premium, and setup is surprisingly simple—even for beginners.
Best For
Vloggers, cyclists, hikers, and anyone needing reliable dual-screen framing with solid zoom capabilities.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent image clarity in 4K
- Sturdy metal construction
- User-friendly touch interface
- Good value with included accessories
Cons:
- No optical zoom (digital only)
- Audio quality is average
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.”
“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.”
2. DJI Osmo Action 4 4K/120fps Waterproof Camera with 1/1.3-Inch Sensor and Long Battery Life
DJI’s Osmo Action 4 brings serious low-light performance and pro-grade color science to the action cam world. With a large 1/1.3-inch sensor and 4K/120fps capability, it’s a powerhouse for serious creators—even if it lacks traditional zoom.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Massive 1/1.3-inch sensor for superior low-light shots
- ✓ 4K/120fps video with 10-bit D-Log M color
- ✓ Waterproof up to 18m (59ft) without a case
- ✓ Long-lasting battery with quick-swap design
Why We Recommend It
While it doesn’t have optical zoom, the large sensor captures so much detail that digital cropping remains usable. Ideal for night rides, underwater filming, or fast-paced sports where lighting isn’t perfect.
Best For
Outdoor athletes, night riders, underwater explorers, and filmmakers needing cinematic color depth.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Outstanding low-light performance
- Professional color grading options
- Rugged and waterproof design
- Easy-to-use interface
Cons:
- No zoom functionality
- Doesn’t include SD card
Customer Reviews
“I absolutely love the DJI Osmo Action 4! The video quality is stunning with 4K/120fps, and the 1/1.3-inch sensor captures incredible detail even in low light.”
“This camera has great quality and great footage. It held up very well with the mud and bumps during my four-wheeling trip.”
3. DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro 4K/120fps Waterproof Action Camera with Dual OLED Screens
The Action 5 Pro upgrades DJI’s formula with brighter OLED screens, smarter subject tracking, and enhanced night imaging—all at a surprisingly accessible price point for the Essential Combo version.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Dual OLED screens with improved brightness
- ✓ Advanced 4nm chip for precise subject tracking
- ✓ 1/1.3-inch sensor with dynamic range boost
- ✓ Streamlined accessory pack for budget buyers
Why We Recommend It
It’s rare to find such advanced tech in a budget-friendly bundle. While zoom isn’t included, the intelligent framing and sharp sensor make it a steal for the price.
Best For
Beginners upgrading from smartphones, travel vloggers, and budget-conscious adventurers.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value in Essential Combo
- Crisp OLED displays
- Great low-light performance
- Compact and lightweight
Cons:
- No zoom feature
- Limited accessories in base combo
Customer Reviews
“This is a fantastic camera! It has a lot of different options in terms of filming—from 1080 to 4K—and the quality is amazing.”
“DJI Osmo Action 5 is small enough to fit into the palm of my hand. Yet the sensor is 1/1.3″, which performs much better in low light.”
4. icefox i8 4K Action Camera with 5X Zoom, Waterproof Design, and EIS Stabilization
The icefox i8 brings real 5X digital zoom to the action cam space—a rare feature that lets you get closer to distant subjects without switching lenses. Paired with 4K recording and solid stabilization, it’s a versatile pick.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ True 5X digital zoom functionality
- ✓ 98ft (30m) waterproof without housing
- ✓ Dual batteries for up to 4 hours of use
- ✓ Built-in EIS for smooth footage
Why We Recommend It
If zoom is your priority, the i8 delivers where most action cams fall short. It’s great for capturing wildlife, mountain peaks, or race details from a distance.
Best For
Nature photographers, trail runners, and outdoor enthusiasts who need zoom flexibility.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Rare 5X zoom in an action cam
- Excellent battery life
- Solid waterproof performance
- Includes useful mounting accessories
Cons:
- Zoom reduces resolution slightly
- App connectivity can be finicky
Customer Reviews
“I’m impressed with the Icefox action camera for the quality, features, and included accessories. The user manual has clear illustrations.”
“I took this on a jet ski ride and snorkeling trip. Setup was super easy, and the video quality blew me away—crystal clear even in full HD.”
5. 4K 60fps 48MP Action Camera with 8X Zoom, Touch Screen, and Underwater Waterproofing
With a massive 8X digital zoom, this camera pushes the limits of what’s possible in a compact action cam. It also shoots 48MP photos and handles underwater use down to 50 feet.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Impressive 8X digital zoom
- ✓ 48MP photo resolution
- ✓ IP68 waterproof rating (50ft)
- ✓ Responsive touchscreen interface
Why We Recommend It
For users who absolutely need maximum zoom range, this model offers the highest magnification on our list. Just keep expectations realistic—digital zoom has limits.
Best For
Adventure racers, surfers, and travelers wanting extreme zoom in a waterproof package.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Highest zoom level (8X) available
- Sharp 48MP stills
- Good underwater performance
- Includes memory card and mounts
Cons:
- Zoom quality degrades beyond 5X
- Battery drains faster with zoom use
Customer Reviews
“This 4K 60FPS action camera exceeded all expectations! The video quality is outstanding—crisp, smooth, and vibrant even during fast motion.”
“The 4K 60 FPS feature captures image and video very clearly without any blur during sports or cycling.”
6. ODDV 4K 60fps Action Camera with Front LCD, 5X Zoom, and 132ft Waterproof Rating
ODDV packs serious value with a front LCD for selfies, 5X zoom, and an incredible 132ft waterproof rating—all under $50. It’s a no-frills workhorse for budget adventurers.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Front LCD + rear touchscreen
- ✓ 5X digital zoom
- ✓ 132ft (40m) waterproof depth
- ✓ Six-axis EIS stabilization
Why We Recommend It
You won’t find better zoom + dual-screen features at this price. It’s perfect for casual users who want flexibility without breaking the bank.
Best For
Students, weekend warriors, and families needing affordable zoom functionality.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Unbeatable price-to-feature ratio
- Great for selfie videos
- Rugged waterproof design
- Easy to operate
Cons:
- Plastic build feels less premium
- Limited app support
Customer Reviews
“This camera is such a fun find! For under $50, the video quality is solid and the waterproof design really works.”
“The dual LCD screens are a total game changer—the front screen is perfect for selfies or vlogging.”
7. Apexcam 4K 60fps Action Camera with 8X Zoom, 64MP Photos, and Waterproof Helmet Mount
Apexcam combines high-resolution 64MP photos with 8X zoom and comes ready to mount on helmets or bikes. It’s a solid all-rounder for motorcyclists and extreme sports fans.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 8X digital zoom
- ✓ 64MP photo resolution
- ✓ Includes helmet mount and remote
- ✓ WiFi + 2.4G remote control
Why We Recommend It
Great for riders who want zoom and high-res stills in one package. The included remote is a nice touch for hands-free operation.
Best For
Motorcyclists, skiers, and action photographers needing zoom and high megapixel counts.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very high photo resolution
- Includes useful mounts
- Remote control adds convenience
- Good video quality for the price
Cons:
- Audio quality is mediocre
- Battery life could be better
Customer Reviews
“This camera is slick – worthy of purchasing. Plenty of accessories and easy to operate. Small but lightweight.”
“I rate the quality of this to be extremely well for video. For sound, it’s good too. Took great footage on my bike commute.”
Complete Buying Guide for Action Camera With Zoom
Essential Factors We Consider
When choosing the best action camera with zoom, we prioritize real-world usability. Key factors include zoom type (digital vs optical), resolution at max zoom, stabilization effectiveness, waterproof depth, battery life, and included accessories. Since most action cams use digital zoom, we test how much detail is preserved when zooming in. We also evaluate ease of use—especially for mounting, screen visibility, and menu navigation during motion.
Budget Planning
Prices range from under $50 (like the ODDV) to over $300 (DJI models). If zoom is critical, expect to pay $100–$200 for decent 5X–8X performance. Budget options sacrifice build quality or app support, while premium models offer better sensors and color science—but rarely optical zoom. Decide whether you need zoom for distant subjects or just occasional cropping.
Final Thoughts
The right action camera with zoom depends on your activity and priorities. For most users, the icefox i8 or ODDV offer the best balance of zoom and value. If you don’t need zoom, DJI’s Osmo series delivers superior image quality. Always check included mounts and battery count—they make a big difference in real adventures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do action cameras have optical zoom?
A: Almost none do. Most use digital zoom, which crops the image. Optical zoom is rare due to size constraints, but digital zoom up to 8X is common in newer models.
Q: Is 5X zoom enough for action sports?
A: Yes—for most scenarios. It lets you capture details like license plates, wildlife, or race numbers without losing too much quality. Beyond 5X, image softening becomes noticeable.
Q: Can I use these cameras underwater with zoom?
A: Yes, but zoom performance may vary underwater due to refraction. Models like the icefox i8 and ODDV are tested for underwater zoom use down to 30–40 meters.
Q: Do I need a front screen if I’m using zoom?
A: Not necessarily, but it helps frame shots when zoomed in—especially for selfies or vlogging. Dual-screen models like the ODDV make zooming much easier.
Q: How does zoom affect battery life?
A: Using zoom increases processing load, which can drain the battery 10–20% faster. Always carry spare batteries if you plan to zoom frequently.
Ready to capture your next adventure with crisp, zoomed-in detail? Whether you’re hitting the trails, diving underwater, or filming your latest ride, one of these best action cameras with zoom will deliver the shots you’ve been missing. Click any “Check Price” button above to compare current deals and find your perfect match today!
