Looking for the best bargain action camera that doesn’t skimp on quality? You’re in the right place. Whether you’re capturing mountain bike trails, snorkeling adventures, or family hikes, a good action camera should deliver sharp 4K video, solid stabilization, and reliable waterproofing—all without breaking the bank. After testing and comparing dozens of models under $150, we’ve narrowed it down to five standout options that offer unbeatable value. These cameras pack premium features like dual screens, electronic image stabilization (EIS), and long battery life at prices that won’t make your wallet cry.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 5 Best Bargain Action Camera Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. 4K60FPS Action Camera with Front LCD and Touch Rear Screen, 132FT Waterproof, EIS, 64GB Card Included
This camera punches well above its price point, delivering crisp 4K60FPS video and a clever dual-screen setup that makes framing shots effortless. With built-in EIS and a generous 64GB card included, it’s ready to go straight out of the box—perfect for travelers and weekend adventurers on a budget.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Records smooth 4K60FPS video and 30MP photos
✓ Dual screens: 2.0″ touch rear + 1.4″ front LCD for selfies
✓ 132ft waterproof rating—great for snorkeling and pool days
✓ Built-in six-axis EIS for steady footage on bumpy trails
✓ Includes 64GB microSD card and multiple mounting accessories
Why We Recommend It
It’s rare to find a camera under $60 that offers both front and rear screens, true 4K60FPS recording, and reliable stabilization. This model checks all those boxes while staying incredibly user-friendly—even for beginners.
Best For
Families, vloggers, and outdoor enthusiasts who want high-quality footage without the premium price tag.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value for money
- Dual screens simplify framing
- Solid waterproof performance
- Includes essential accessories
Cons:
- Battery life could be longer (about 90 minutes per charge)
- Audio quality is average (not ideal for voice-heavy content)
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 could be better, but for the price, it’s unbeatable.”
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 sharp and smooth, I’m confident it’ll handle depth just fine.”
2. 4K60FPS Waterproof Action Camera with Dual Touch Screens, 66FT Underwater Use, 6-Axis Stabilization
If you’re serious about action footage but still want to keep costs low, this model stands out with its all-metal build, responsive dual touchscreens, and impressive 6-axis stabilization. It handles fast motion smoothly and looks great doing it—ideal for mountain bikers, skaters, and adrenaline junkies.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ True 4K60FPS video and 64MP photo capability
✓ Dual touchscreens: 2.0″ rear + 1.5″ front IPS display
✓ Rugged metal body with 66ft waterproof rating
✓ 6-axis gyroscopic EIS for ultra-smooth footage
✓ Comes with two rechargeable batteries and mounting kit
Why We Recommend It
The metal construction gives it a premium feel rarely seen in budget cameras, and the stabilization is noticeably better than plastic-bodied competitors. Plus, having two batteries means you’re never stuck waiting for a charge mid-adventure.
Best For
Extreme sports lovers and content creators who need durability and reliability without spending hundreds.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Premium metal build quality
- Excellent stabilization in fast motion
- Dual batteries included
- Intuitive touchscreen interface
Cons:
- Front screen isn’t touch-sensitive
- No included memory card (requires separate purchase)
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—great for bikes, helmets, and handlebars.”
3. DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro Waterproof Camera with 1/1.3″ Sensor, 4K120fps, Dual OLED Screens, Stabilization
Yes, it’s slightly above our $150 cutoff—but hear us out. The DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro often drops below $160 on sale and delivers flagship-level performance thanks to its massive 1/1.3″ sensor and dual OLED screens. It’s the best bargain action camera for low-light shooting and professional-grade stabilization.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Large 1/1.3″ sensor excels in low light
✓ Records up to 4K120fps for slow-motion clarity
✓ Dual bright OLED touchscreens (front and rear)
✓ Advanced subject tracking with 4nm chip
✓ RockSteady 3.0 stabilization for buttery-smooth footage
Why We Recommend It
DJI is known for drone tech, and that expertise shows here. The low-light performance blows cheaper cameras out of the water, and the OLED screens are visibly sharper than LCDs. If you can catch it on discount, it’s a steal.
Best For
Night riders, urban explorers, and creators who shoot in varied lighting conditions.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Outstanding low-light image quality
- Premium OLED displays
- Top-tier stabilization
- Reliable brand with strong app support
Cons:
- Requires DJI Mimo app (not on Google Play anymore)
- Higher price point (but worth it on sale)
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 nowadays. In short, the bigger the sensor, the better the pictures and videos. It also performs much better in low-light conditions.”
4. Mini 4K Thumb Action Camera with EIS, 128GB Storage, Waterproof for Running, Cycling, and Hiking
Tiny but mighty—this thumb-sized camera packs 4K recording, EIS, and a massive 128GB of internal storage into a device lighter than a key fob. Its magnetic mount lets you clip it anywhere for hands-free POV shots, making it perfect for runners, cyclists, and hikers who want simplicity without sacrifice.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Pocket-sized design (weighs just 1.27oz)
✓ Built-in 128GB storage—no memory card needed
✓ Magnetic mounting system for secure attachment
✓ 4K video with EIS for smooth motion footage
✓ Waterproof up to 131ft with included case
Why We Recommend It
It’s the ultimate grab-and-go camera. No fumbling with mounts or cables—just stick it on your shirt or hat and start recording. The internal storage is a huge plus, eliminating the risk of losing tiny SD cards.
Best For
Runners, trail cyclists, and minimalist adventurers who prioritize portability and ease of use.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Ultra-compact and lightweight
- No need for external memory cards
- Magnetic mount is secure and versatile
- Great for natural POV perspectives
Cons:
- Limited manual controls
- Short battery life (~60 minutes)
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 surprisingly good for such a small device.”
5. 4K Thumb-Sized Action Camera with 128GB Storage, Waterproof for POV Sports and Outdoor Adventures
Another tiny titan, this model emphasizes safety and simplicity with a magnetic hang mount and safety lanyard. It’s designed for worry-free POV recording during high-movement activities, and the 128GB internal storage ensures you won’t run out of space mid-hike.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ True thumb-sized design (1.27oz)
✓ 128GB built-in storage—no extra cards required
✓ Magnetic back + safety lanyard for double security
✓ Waterproof up to 131ft with protective case
✓ Smooth 4K video with basic EIS
Why We Recommend It
It’s one of the most reliable mini cameras for active users. The dual mounting system (magnet + lanyard) means it won’t fly off during sprints or jumps, and setup takes seconds.
Best For
POV sports enthusiasts, hikers, and anyone who wants a no-fuss, always-ready camera.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely portable and lightweight
- Secure dual-mount system
- No memory card hassles
- Affordable price point
Cons:
- Basic stabilization (not as smooth as EIS in pricier models)
- Limited editing features in-camera
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I’ve only had the 4K Thumb Action Camera for a few days, but it has already made a strong first impression. The size is the first thing that surprised me—it’s truly as small as a thumb, which makes it incredibly easy to carry and mount. I’ve tried it while running and cycling, and the lightweight design means I barely notice it’s there.”
Customer Review: “Great little action camera for the price. The size is super compact and very convenient to use, especially for sports and outdoor activities. Video quality is really good, and it comes with useful accessories right out of the box. Easy to set up, lightweight, and practical to carry anywhere. Overall, a solid choice for casual adventurers.”
Complete Buying Guide for Best Bargain Action Camera
Essential Factors We Consider
When picking the best bargain action camera, we focus on real-world performance over flashy specs. Key factors include video resolution (true 4K60FPS matters more than marketing claims), stabilization quality (EIS should reduce shake, not crop your frame excessively), waterproof depth (at least 30ft for casual use), battery life (90+ minutes ideal), and included accessories (mounts, cards, cases). We also prioritize user reviews—because if it breaks after two uses, it’s not a bargain.
Budget Planning
You don’t need to spend $300 to get great footage. Our top picks range from $40 to $160, with most offering the best value under $100. Set your budget based on usage: under $60 for casual family trips, $80–$120 for regular sports, and $150+ if you need low-light performance or pro features. Always check for bundle deals—cameras that include mounts, batteries, or memory cards save you money long-term.
Final Thoughts
The best bargain action camera isn’t the cheapest—it’s the one that delivers the most reliable performance for your specific needs. Whether you’re vlogging from a kayak or recording your kid’s soccer game, these five models prove you can get excellent quality without overspending.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use these cameras underwater without a case?
A: Most budget action cameras require a waterproof housing for submersion. Only a few (like the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro) are truly waterproof on their own. Always check the depth rating and whether a case is included.
Q: Do I need to buy a memory card separately?
A: It depends! Some models (like #1 and #3) include a card, while others (like #2) don’t. The thumb-sized cameras (#4 and #5) have internal storage, so no card is needed.
Q: Is 4K60FPS really necessary for casual use?
A: Not always—but it future-proofs your footage and allows for smoother slow-motion clips. If you mostly share on social media, 4K30FPS may suffice. But for action shots, 60FPS makes a noticeable difference.
Q: How important is electronic image stabilization (EIS)?
A: Very! Without EIS, footage from biking, running, or skiing can be too shaky to watch. Look for cameras with at least basic EIS—it’s a game-changer for smooth results.
Q: Can I live-stream with these cameras?
A: Most budget action cameras don’t support live streaming. They’re designed for recording and transferring files later. If live streaming is essential, consider higher-end models or smartphones with action mounts.
Ready to capture your next adventure without overspending? Any of these best bargain action cameras will deliver impressive results at a fraction of the cost of premium brands. Click the “Check Price” buttons above to compare current deals—and start filming your world in stunning detail today!
