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In 2022, action cameras reached new heights in performance, durability, and user-friendly features—making it the perfect time to upgrade your adventure gear. Whether you’re capturing mountain bike trails, surfing waves, or family vacations, the best action camera in 2022 delivers crisp 4K video, rock-solid stabilization, and rugged waterproof designs. After extensive testing and real-world use, we’ve narrowed down the top five models that stand out for their innovation, reliability, and value. From premium flagship options to budget-friendly powerhouses, this list covers every type of adventurer.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 5 Best Action Camera In 2022 Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro Waterproof Action Camera with 4K Video and Dual Touchscreens
The DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro is a powerhouse built for serious creators and outdoor enthusiasts. With its advanced 1/1.3-inch sensor and dual touchscreens, it delivers pro-grade night imaging and dynamic range that rivals high-end cameras. Whether you’re filming in low light or fast-paced action, this camera keeps your subject centered and sharp.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 4K video recording with exceptional low-light performance
✓ Dual touchscreens (front and rear) for easy framing and playback
✓ Advanced 4nm chip for fast autofocus and subject tracking
✓ Waterproof up to 18 meters without a housing
✓ Long-lasting battery with up to 2-hour continuous recording
Why We Recommend It
This camera sets the bar for image quality and usability in 2022. Its large sensor captures more light and detail than most competitors, making it ideal for sunrise hikes, night rides, or underwater adventures. The intuitive interface and reliable stabilization make it a joy to use, even for beginners.
Best For
Adventure photographers, vloggers, and anyone who wants cinematic footage in a compact, rugged package.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Outstanding low-light performance
- Dual screens simplify vlogging and selfies
- Robust build with excellent waterproofing
- Fast and accurate autofocus
Cons:
- Higher price point than budget models
- Limited accessory compatibility compared to GoPro
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 intern”
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.”
2. GoPro HERO13 Black – Waterproof Action Camera with 5.3K60 Video, 27MP Photo + Compatability with …
The GoPro HERO13 Black continues the brand’s legacy with groundbreaking 5.3K video, HB-Series lens compatibility, and slow-motion capabilities up to 13x. It’s a versatile, high-performance action camera designed for athletes, filmmakers, and travelers who demand top-tier quality and ecosystem flexibility.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 5.3K video at 60fps—91% more resolution than 4K
✓ Compatible with HB-Series lenses for specialized shooting
✓ HERO Burst Slo-Mo slows action down to 13x normal speed
✓ HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilization for ultra-smooth footage
✓ Waterproof to 33 feet (10m) without a housing
Why We Recommend It
GoPro remains the gold standard for action cameras, and the HERO13 Black proves why. Its ecosystem of mounts, lenses, and editing tools makes it incredibly versatile. The 5.3K resolution future-proofs your content, while the intuitive app simplifies setup and sharing.
Best For
Extreme sports athletes, content creators, and professionals who rely on a full-featured, expandable camera system.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Unmatched accessory and lens ecosystem
- Superior video resolution and slow-motion options
- Excellent app integration and cloud backup
- Durable, compact, and lightweight design
Cons:
- Battery life could be better during 5.3K recording
- Premium price with add-on costs for lenses
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I knew I wanted a GoPro 13 bundle and did a bunch of digging around. This is the one I ended up choosing. It had everything I needed. It had the camera, a case, a couple of batteries, adapters, and a handle. Everything in this helped me get started recording the videos I wanted to record. Everything”
Customer Review: “Man this thing is pretty cool. Very light weight yet quality built. Crispy clean video display. Setting up the camera with the app was quick and easy. Can’t wait to explore the editing feature I subscribed to.”
3. ODDV 4K60FPS 30MP Action Camera with Front LCD and Touch Rear Screens, Underwater Camera with 64G…
The ODDV 4K60FPS action camera proves you don’t need to spend hundreds to get solid performance. With dual screens, 6-axis stabilization, and included 64GB memory card, it’s a complete package for budget-conscious adventurers who still want high-quality video and photos.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 4K video at 60fps and 30MP photos
✓ Dual-screen design: 2.0″ touch rear + 1.4″ front LCD
✓ Built-in 6-axis EIS for smooth, shake-free footage
✓ Includes 64GB microSD card and waterproof housing
✓ Wi-Fi connectivity and smartphone app control
Why We Recommend It
For under $50, this camera delivers features typically found in models twice the price. It’s easy to use, surprisingly durable, and perfect for casual users or families wanting to document trips without breaking the bank.
Best For
Beginners, travelers, and families looking for an affordable, feature-packed action camera.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value for money
- Dual screens enhance usability
- Includes essential accessories
- Good video quality for the price
Cons:
- Low-light performance is average
- Build quality not as rugged as premium brands
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”
4. 4K 60FPS Waterproof Action Camera,Bare Metal 66FT Underwater Camera,2″ Touch Dual Screen Sports 6…
This rugged, metal-bodied action camera combines 4K60FPS video, dual touchscreens, and 6-axis stabilization in a waterproof design rated for 66 feet. It’s built for extreme sports and delivers impressive image clarity and durability at a mid-range price.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 4K video at 60fps and 64MP photo mode
✓ Dual screens: 2.0″ touch rear + 1.5″ IPS front
✓ 6-axis gyro stabilization for smooth footage
✓ Bare-metal construction with 66ft waterproof rating
✓ Includes two batteries and mounting accessories
Why We Recommend It
The solid metal build and included extras make this camera a great all-in-one solution. It’s reliable, easy to operate, and handles rough conditions—from mountain biking to snorkeling—with ease.
Best For
Outdoor enthusiasts and extreme sports lovers who need a tough, reliable camera with great stabilization.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Sturdy metal body
- Excellent stabilization and video quality
- Comes with two batteries and mounts
- Great value for mid-tier performance
Cons:
- App interface is basic
- Audio quality is average
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”
5. DJI Osmo Action 4 Standard Combo, 4K/120fps Waterproof Action Camera with a 1/1.3-Inch Sensor, St…
The DJI Osmo Action 4 Standard Combo offers pro-level imaging in a more affordable package. With a 1/1.3-inch sensor, 4K/120fps video, and excellent low-light performance, it’s ideal for creators who want high quality without the flagship price tag.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 1/1.3-inch sensor for superior low-light clarity
✓ 4K video at 120fps for smooth slow-motion
✓ D-Log M color profile for professional editing
✓ Waterproof to 18 meters without housing
✓ Includes battery, case, and mounts in combo
Why We Recommend It
This camera delivers near-flagship performance at a better value. The large sensor captures rich detail, and the included accessories make it ready to use right out of the box. It’s a smart pick for serious hobbyists and semi-pros.
Best For
Content creators and outdoor adventurers who want high-end image quality without paying top dollar.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent low-light performance
- High frame rate 4K recording
- Great value in the Standard Combo
- Reliable stabilization and build quality
Cons:
- No front screen (unlike Action 5 Pro)
- Limited accessory ecosystem vs GoPro
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”
Complete Buying Guide for Action Cameras
Essential Factors We Consider
When choosing the best action camera in 2022, we focus on video resolution, stabilization, battery life, durability, and ease of use. A good action camera should shoot at least 4K video, offer electronic image stabilization (EIS), and survive drops, water, and extreme temperatures. Dual screens, app connectivity, and accessory compatibility are bonuses that enhance the experience.
Budget Planning
Action cameras range from under $50 to over $500. Budget models like the ODDV offer solid performance for casual use, while mid-tier options like the DJI Osmo Action 4 provide pro features at a fair price. Premium models like the GoPro HERO13 Black justify their cost with unmatched ecosystems and cutting-edge tech. Decide what features matter most and choose accordingly.
Final Thoughts
The best action camera in 2022 balances performance, durability, and value. Whether you’re a pro filmmaker or a weekend warrior, there’s a model on this list that fits your needs. Don’t overlook stabilization, low-light performance, and included accessories—they make a big difference in real-world use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What resolution should I look for in an action camera?
A: For 2022, 4K at 60fps is the sweet spot. It delivers sharp, smooth footage suitable for most uses. If you plan to slow down clips, consider 5.3K or 4K/120fps for better results.
Q: Are action cameras really waterproof?
A: Yes—most are waterproof without a housing up to 10–18 meters. For deeper dives, use a dedicated underwater housing. Always check the IP rating or depth rating before submerging.
Q: Do I need image stabilization?
A: Absolutely. EIS (electronic image stabilization) is essential for smooth footage during biking, running, or skiing. Look for 6-axis gyro stabilization for the best results.
Q: Can I use an action camera for vlogging?
A: Yes! Models with front screens (like the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro or ODDV) are ideal for vlogging. Pair with a gimbal or tripod for even better framing.
Q: How important is the sensor size?
A: Very. Larger sensors (like 1/1.3-inch) capture more light and detail, especially in low-light conditions. This leads to cleaner, more vibrant footage.
Ready to capture your next adventure in stunning detail? Whether you’re scaling peaks, shredding waves, or just documenting life’s moments, one of these top-rated action cameras will deliver. Click any “Check Price” button above to compare deals and find the perfect match for your needs—and start filming like a pro today!
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