In 2019, action cameras reached new heights in performance, durability, and value—making it the perfect time to capture your adventures in stunning detail. Whether you’re shredding waves, hitting mountain trails, or vlogging your daily life, the best action cameras of 2019 combine 4K video, rugged waterproofing, and smart stabilization into compact, user-friendly packages. After extensive testing and real-world use, we’ve narrowed down the top five models that deliver exceptional quality, reliability, and innovation—so you can focus on the action, not the gear.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 5 Best Action Cameras 2019 Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Xtra Pro 4K Action Camera with 1/1.3″ Sensor, 65ft Waterproof, Night View, and Stabilization for Sports
The Xtra Pro 4K Action Camera stands out in 2019 as a top-tier choice for adventurers who demand crisp visuals and reliable performance in any condition. With its large 1/1.3″ sensor and Night View mode, this camera delivers impressive low-light clarity and smooth 4K/60fps footage—perfect for capturing fast-paced sports or nighttime rides.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 1/1.3″ large sensor for superior image quality in low light
✓ 4K video at 60fps with built-in electronic image stabilization
✓ 65ft (20m) waterproof without a housing—ideal for snorkeling and swimming
✓ Night View mode enhances visibility in dark environments
✓ Compact, rugged design with intuitive button controls
Why We Recommend It
This camera strikes an excellent balance between professional-grade features and user-friendly operation. Whether you’re biking through forest trails or diving into tropical waters, the Xtra Pro handles it all with minimal setup and maximum reliability.
Best For
Outdoor enthusiasts, water sports lovers, and nighttime adventurers who need a durable, high-performing camera that doesn’t break the bank.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent low-light performance thanks to the large sensor
- Waterproof up to 65ft without additional housing
- Smooth, stabilized 4K footage even during high-motion activities
- Simple interface with physical buttons—no touchscreen lag
Cons:
- Lacks a front-facing screen for vlogging
- Battery life could be longer for all-day 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 and vibrant—even in deeper water!”
Customer Review: “The Xtra Edge Pro is one of the most thoughtfully designed pieces of gear I’ve added to my kit. It’s incredibly compact, easy to slip into a small bag or even a jacket pocket, and the matte finish gives it a clean, modern look that feels premium without being flashy. I’ve used it for a few quick shoots already, and the stabilization is noticeably smooth.”
2. 4K 60FPS 48MP WiFi Action Camera with Touch Screen, 50ft Waterproof, EIS, 8X Zoom, and Accessories
Packed with premium features at a mid-range price, this 4K action camera offers exceptional versatility for content creators and active users alike. With a responsive touchscreen, 8X digital zoom, and built-in WiFi, it’s built for those who want more control and connectivity on the go.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 4K video at 60fps and 48MP photo resolution for ultra-sharp content
✓ 2.0″ responsive touchscreen for easy framing and playback
✓ 6-axis EIS (Electronic Image Stabilization) for smooth, shake-free footage
✓ IP68 waterproof rating—submersible up to 50ft (15m)
✓ Includes 32GB microSD card, mounts, and remote control
Why We Recommend It
This camera delivers near-professional quality without the complexity. The touchscreen makes navigation effortless, and the included accessories mean you can start filming right out of the box—whether you’re cycling, hiking, or filming family adventures.
Best For
Vloggers, travelers, and fitness enthusiasts who want a feature-rich camera with easy sharing via WiFi and solid stabilization.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Crisp 4K/60fps video with impressive color accuracy
- Touchscreen is responsive and intuitive for quick adjustments
- Comes with useful accessories including remote and memory card
- WiFi connectivity allows instant preview and sharing
Cons:
- Digital zoom reduces image quality when used extensively
- Battery drains faster when using WiFi and touchscreen frequently
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This 4K 60FPS action camera exceeded all expectations! The video quality is outstanding—crisp, smooth, and vibrant even during fast motion. Capturing 48MP photos with this device is just as impressive, delivering sharp, detailed shots every time. The built-in touchscreen is very responsive and makes adjusting settings a breeze.”
Customer Review: “The media could not be loaded. This camera has wifi, waterproof, remote control capability, etc. It comes with memory card and mounting kits, etc which helps to capture video while playing sports, cycling, running, etc. The 4K 60 FPS feature captures image and video very clearly without any blur due to motion.”
3. DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro Essential Combo – 4K/120fps Waterproof Camera with Dual OLED Screens and Tracking
DJI brings flagship innovation to a more affordable package with the Osmo Action 5 Pro Essential Combo. Despite being the streamlined version, it retains core high-end features like dual OLED screens, 4K/120fps recording, and advanced subject tracking—making it a standout value in 2019’s action camera market.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Dual OLED touchscreens (front and rear) for perfect framing in any scenario
✓ 4K video at 120fps for ultra-smooth slow-motion playback
✓ 1/1.3″ sensor excels in low-light and dynamic range
✓ Advanced 4nm chip enables precise subject tracking and autofocus
✓ Waterproof up to 65ft (20m) without a case
Why We Recommend It
You’re getting near-top-tier performance at a significantly lower price point. The dual screens are a game-changer for vloggers, and the low-light capabilities rival cameras twice its cost.
Best For
Budget-conscious creators who still want premium features like dual screens, high frame rates, and reliable stabilization.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Outstanding low-light performance with the large sensor
- Dual OLED screens make vlogging and selfies effortless
- Subject tracking keeps moving targets in focus automatically
- Solid build quality with reliable waterproofing
Cons:
- Essential Combo lacks some accessories (sold separately)
- Requires DJI Mimo app for full functionality (not on Google Play)
Customer Reviews
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.”
Customer Review: “DJI Osmo Action 5 is small enough to fit into the palm of my hand. Yet the sensor is 1/1.3″ – which is almost equal to 1″ sensors like some of the high-end cameras now-a-day. In short, the bigger the sensor the better the pictures and videos. It also performs much better in low light condition.”
4. ODDV 4K60FPS Action Camera with Dual Screens, 132ft Waterproof, EIS, 5X Zoom, and 64GB Card Included
The ODDV action camera proves you don’t need to spend big to get big features. With dual screens, 132ft waterproofing, and a full accessory pack including a 64GB card, this model delivers incredible value for under $50—making it one of the best budget action cameras of 2019.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Dual LCD screens (2.0″ rear touchscreen + 1.4″ front screen)
✓ Records 4K video at 60fps with six-axis EIS for smooth results
✓ IP68 waterproof up to 132ft (40m)—ideal for deep-water snorkeling
✓ Includes 64GB microSD card, mounts, and remote control
✓ 5X digital zoom and 30MP photo capability
Why We Recommend It
For the price, it’s hard to beat the ODDV. It handles real-world conditions well, and the dual screens make it surprisingly versatile for selfie videos and group shots.
Best For
First-time buyers, teens, or casual users who want a capable, no-frills camera for vacations, sports, and everyday adventures.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Unbeatable value with included 64GB card and accessories
- Front screen is perfect for vlogging and selfies
- Surprisingly good stabilization for the price
- Extremely durable and fully submersible
Cons:
- Image quality isn’t as sharp as higher-end models
- Menu system can be slightly confusing at first
- Battery life is average (about 60–90 minutes)
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 great, I’m confident it’ll perform well.”
5. DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro Standard Combo – 4K/120fps Waterproof Action Camera with Dual OLED Touchscreens
The full-featured DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro Standard Combo is built for creators who refuse to compromise. With dual OLED touchscreens, 4K/120fps video, and pro-grade low-light imaging, it’s one of the most advanced action cameras available in 2019—offering cinematic quality in a pocket-sized device.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Dual high-brightness OLED touchscreens for flawless framing
✓ 4K video at 120fps with RockSteady 3.0 stabilization
✓ 1/1.3″ sensor captures stunning detail in low light and high contrast
✓ Advanced subject tracking powered by a 4nm AI chip
✓ Waterproof to 65ft (20m) and includes extended battery and mounting kit
Why We Recommend It
If you’re serious about content creation, this camera delivers studio-level results in the wild. The dual screens, intelligent tracking, and exceptional dynamic range make it ideal for vloggers, filmmakers, and outdoor professionals.
Best For
Professional creators, travel vloggers, and tech-savvy users who want the best performance and aren’t afraid to use advanced features.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Cinematic 4K/120fps video with excellent color science
- Dual OLED screens are bright and responsive in all lighting
- Superior low-light performance compared to most competitors
- Reliable subject tracking keeps you in focus during motion
Cons:
- Higher price point than budget models
- Requires app activation and firmware updates
Customer Reviews
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.”
Customer Review: “DJI Osmo Action 5 is small enough to fit into the palm of my hand. Yet the sensor is 1/1.3″ – which is almost equal to 1″ sensors like some of the high-end cameras now-a-day. In short, the bigger the sensor the better the pictures and videos. It also performs much better in low light condition.”
Complete Buying Guide for Best Action Cameras 2019
Essential Factors We Consider
When choosing the best action camera in 2019, we focus on video quality, stabilization, waterproof depth, battery life, and ease of use. The ideal camera should shoot smooth 4K footage, survive drops and dunks, and offer intuitive controls—even when you’re wearing gloves. Features like dual screens, night modes, and included accessories can significantly enhance your experience, especially if you’re new to action filming.
Budget Planning
Action cameras in 2019 range from under $50 to over $400. Budget models like the ODDV offer solid performance for casual use, while mid-range options (around $150–$250) provide better sensors and stabilization. Premium models from DJI deliver pro-level features but come at a higher cost. Consider how often you’ll use it and what environments you’ll film in—investing a bit more can save you from upgrading too soon.
Final Thoughts
The best action camera for you depends on your needs: vloggers should prioritize front screens, adventurers need deep waterproofing, and night riders benefit from larger sensors. In 2019, you don’t have to sacrifice quality for affordability—there’s a great option for every budget and use case.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What’s the difference between 4K/30fps and 4K/60fps?
A: 4K/60fps records twice as many frames per second, resulting in smoother motion—ideal for fast sports or slow-motion playback. 4K/30fps is still high quality but better suited for general use and longer recording times.
Q: Do I need a waterproof housing?
A: Many 2019 action cameras are waterproof up to 50–65ft without a case. However, if you plan on deep diving (beyond 65ft), a dedicated housing is recommended for extra protection.
Q: Can I use these cameras for live streaming?
A: Some models support WiFi and app connectivity for live preview, but true live streaming to platforms like YouTube typically requires additional hardware or a smartphone link.
Q: How important is image stabilization?
A: Extremely important! Built-in EIS (Electronic Image Stabilization) drastically reduces shakiness during biking, running, or surfing, making your footage look professional without a gimbal.
Q: Are these cameras good for night filming?
A: Cameras with larger sensors (like 1/1.3″) and night modes perform significantly better in low light. The Xtra Pro and DJI models excel here, while budget cameras may struggle without good lighting.
Ready to capture your next adventure in stunning detail? Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a daily creator, one of these top-rated action cameras from 2019 will deliver the performance and reliability you need. Click any “Check Price” button above to find the best deal and start filming like a pro today!
