Top Accessories for Action Cameras to Elevate Your Shots

Unlock the full potential of your action camera with must-have accessories designed to stabilize, protect, and expand your creative options. From rugged waterproof housings and versatile mounts to external mics and lighting, these tools ensure professional-grade footage in any environment, whether you’re diving, climbing, or capturing fast-paced motion.

Key Takeaways

• Stabilize your shots: Use gimbals to eliminate shaky footage in motion.
• Expand versatility: Mounts unlock creative angles for unique perspectives.
• Enhance audio: External mics improve sound quality in windy conditions.
• Protect your gear: Waterproof cases ensure durability in extreme environments.
• Boost lighting: LED attachments brighten low-light scenes effectively.
• Extend battery life: Carry spares for longer shooting sessions without interruption.

Top Accessories for Action Cameras to Elevate Your Shots

Remember the first time you took your action camera out of the box? That little device felt like a ticket to adventure. Whether you were chasing waves, hiking mountain trails, or filming your kid’s first bike ride, you probably thought the camera itself was all you needed. And honestly, it’s a great start. But here’s the truth: accessories for action cameras can transform your footage from “cool” to “cinematic” — often with just a few clever additions.

I learned this the hard way. A few years back, I was filming a sunrise hike with my GoPro. The lighting was perfect, the trail was epic, but when I played the footage back, it looked like I was filming through a shaky, out-of-focus window. My hands were cold, my grip was loose, and the audio was drowned out by wind. I realized then that the magic wasn’t just in the camera — it was in the gear that helped me use it better. Since then, I’ve tested dozens of accessories, from basic mounts to high-end audio tools, and I’ve found that the right ones don’t just make filming easier — they make it more fun, more professional, and more rewarding.

1. Mounts and Grips: The Foundation of Stable, Creative Shots

Let’s start with the basics. You can have the most advanced action camera in the world, but if it’s not securely mounted or held, your footage will suffer. Mounts and grips are the unsung heroes of action camera accessories. They give you control, stability, and creative freedom. Think of them as your camera’s best friends — the ones that let you get the shot without the blur.

Handheld Grips and Tripods

For handheld shooting, a good grip is non-negotiable. I used to rely on the standard grip that came with my camera, but after a few sweaty hikes, I upgraded to a padded, ergonomic grip with a built-in tripod thread. The difference was night and day. My hands stayed dry, and I could easily switch between handheld and tripod mode.

• Joby GorillaPod Action Kit: This flexible tripod is a game-changer. Its bendable legs let you wrap it around tree branches, bike handlebars, or even a fence post. I’ve used it to film a squirrel climbing a tree — yes, really — and the footage was rock-solid. It’s lightweight and packs down small, perfect for travel.
• DJI OM 6 Smartphone Grip (with adapter): While designed for phones, this grip works wonders with action cameras using a universal mount. It has a built-in extension rod and a magnetic phone clamp, making it ideal for selfie-style vlogging or low-angle shots.

Tip: Always check the weight capacity of your grip. Some cheaper models can’t handle the weight of a camera with a housing or filter attached.

Helmet and Body Mounts

Want to capture a first-person view? Helmet and body mounts are your go-to. I’ve used them for mountain biking, snowboarding, and even kayaking. The key is finding a mount that’s secure but doesn’t feel like a helmet anchor.

• GoPro Helmet Front + Side Mount: This dual-position mount lets you switch between front and side views without removing the adhesive. I love it for biking — front view for wide-angle trail shots, side for capturing the wind in my face (and the occasional tree branch).
• Peak Design Capture Clip: Not a traditional mount, but this belt-mounted clip holds your camera securely while hiking or running. It’s quick to access, and I’ve never had it slip — even on steep, rocky trails.

Tip: Use a tether (a safety leash) with any helmet or body mount. I once lost a camera mid-bike jump because the mount came loose. A tether would’ve saved me $300 and a lot of heartache.

Vehicle and Surface Mounts

Want to film from a car, boat, or surfboard? Suction cup and adhesive mounts are your best bet. But not all mounts are created equal. I’ve had suction cups fail on bumpy roads and adhesive mounts peel off in the sun.

• GoPro Suction Cup Mount: This one’s a classic. It sticks to smooth surfaces like windshields, boat decks, and even kayaks. I used it to film a sunrise paddle, and it held strong — even when I hit a small wake.
• 3M Adhesive Pads (for flat surfaces): For permanent or semi-permanent setups, these are gold. They’re used in professional rigs for a reason. Just clean the surface with alcohol before applying, and let it cure for 24 hours for maximum hold.

Tip: Always test your mount before relying on it. Do a quick shake test — if it wobbles, reposition or reinforce it.

2. Audio Accessories: Because Great Video Needs Great Sound

Here’s a hard truth: most action cameras have terrible built-in mics. Wind noise, muffled voices, and ambient chaos can ruin even the best footage. But the right accessories for action cameras can fix that — and fast.

External Microphones

Adding an external mic is the single best way to improve your audio. I’ve tested a few, and the results are impressive.

• Rode VideoMic Me-L: This tiny directional mic plugs into your camera’s USB-C or Lightning port (via adapter). It’s designed for vloggers and works great for interviews or on-the-go commentary. The sound is clear, and the wind muff (included) reduces noise in light breezes.
• Deity V-Mic D3 Pro: A step up for serious creators. It has a built-in shock mount, adjustable gain, and a low-cut filter to reduce wind and rumble. I used it for a hiking vlog, and the audio was crisp — even with a 15 mph wind.

Tip: Use a windscreen or deadcat (furry cover) with any external mic. I once filmed a beach scene without one — the audio was so windy, it sounded like a hairdryer.

Wireless Audio Systems

For interviews, vlogs, or capturing ambient sound, wireless mics are a game-changer. They let you move freely without being tethered to your camera.

• DJI Mic 2: This compact wireless system has two transmitters (mics) and a receiver that plugs into your camera. The audio quality is excellent, and the range is up to 820 feet (in open areas). I used it for a group hike, and everyone’s voices were clear, even when we spread out.
• Rode Wireless GO II: Another top pick. It has built-in recording on the transmitters, so even if the signal drops, your audio is safe. The range is slightly shorter than DJI’s, but the audio clarity is just as good.

Tip: Always do a sound check before filming. Test the levels, check for interference, and make sure the mics are charged. Nothing’s worse than getting home and realizing your audio is silent.

3. Filters and Lenses: Enhance Color, Reduce Glare, and Expand Your Vision

Ever filmed a sunset and ended up with blown-out highlights or a washed-out sky? Or tried to shoot through a car windshield and got annoying reflections? Filters and lenses can solve these problems — and open up new creative possibilities.

Polarizing Filters (CPL)

A polarizing filter reduces glare and reflections, making colors pop. It’s perfect for shooting water, glass, or bright skies.

• PolarPro QuartzLine CPL Filter: This high-quality filter screws onto your camera’s housing or filter mount. I used it to film a lake scene, and the difference was dramatic — the water looked deeper, and the sky had more contrast. It also reduces reflections on car windshields and windows.

Tip: Rotate the filter to find the sweet spot. The effect changes depending on the angle of the sun and the camera.

ND Filters (Neutral Density)

ND filters reduce the amount of light entering the lens, letting you use slower shutter speeds in bright conditions. This is crucial for achieving cinematic motion blur (like smooth waterfalls or moving clouds).

• Freewell Magnetic ND Filters: These snap onto your camera with magnets, making them easy to swap. I used a 3-stop ND filter to film a waterfall at noon, and the water looked silky smooth — not frozen in time.

Tip: Use ND filters when you want to blur motion, not when you want sharp, fast-action shots. They’re not for sports or fast movement.

Wide-Angle and Macro Lenses

Want to get closer to the action or capture more of the scene? Lens accessories can help.

• GoPro Max Lens Mod: This wide-angle lens gives you a 155-degree field of view (vs. the standard 120). I used it for a tight indoor space, and it made the room feel huge. It also reduces fisheye distortion.
• Telesun Macro Lens: For close-up shots of flowers, insects, or gear details. It attaches with a magnetic ring and works best at 2-4 inches from the subject.

Tip: Clean your lens and filters with a microfiber cloth before every shoot. Dust and fingerprints are the enemies of sharp footage.

4. Power and Storage: Never Run Out of Juice or Space

Nothing kills a filming session faster than a dead battery or a full memory card. Power and storage accessories keep you rolling — literally.

Extra Batteries and Charging Hubs

Action cameras are power-hungry. I’ve had my GoPro die mid-hike more times than I’d like to admit. The solution? Extra batteries.

• GoPro Enduro Battery: This high-capacity battery lasts 30-40% longer than the standard one, and it performs better in cold weather. I used it for a winter ski trip, and it outlasted my old battery by nearly an hour.
• Wasabi Power Charging Hub: This compact hub charges 4 batteries at once, with LED indicators for each slot. I keep it in my camera bag and top up my batteries between shoots.

Tip: Store batteries at 40-60% charge if you’re not using them for a while. Fully charged or fully drained batteries degrade faster.

High-Speed Memory Cards

Action cameras shoot high-bitrate video, so you need fast, reliable cards. I’ve had cheap cards corrupt my footage — never again.

• SanDisk Extreme Pro 128GB UHS-I: This card has a 170MB/s write speed, perfect for 4K/60fps video. I’ve used it for weeks of continuous filming with zero errors.
• Lexar 1800x 64GB: Another reliable option. It’s slightly cheaper and works great for 1080p/4K shooting.

Tip: Format your card in-camera, not on a computer. This ensures the card is optimized for your camera’s file system.

5. Protective and Specialty Accessories

Finally, let’s talk about gear that protects your camera or unlocks unique filming styles.

Housings and Domes

Most action cameras come with a basic housing, but upgraded ones offer better protection and optical clarity.

• GoPro Super Suit: This rugged housing is waterproof to 196 feet and has a hydrophobic lens cover to reduce water droplets. I used it for snorkeling, and the footage was crystal clear.
• SeaLife DC2000 Dome Port: For underwater filming, this dome port corrects the lens distortion you get when shooting through water. It’s a bit bulky, but the results are worth it.

Drone and Gimbal Mounts

Want to fly your action camera? Or smooth out handheld shots? These accessories are for you.

• DJI Ronin-SC (with adapter): This 3-axis gimbal stabilizes your camera for buttery-smooth motion. I used it for a walking tour, and the footage looked like it was shot on a dolly.
• DJI Mavic Air 2 Action Camera Mount: Lets you attach your GoPro or similar camera to your drone. I’ve used it for aerial shots, and it’s surprisingly stable.

Smart Accessories

Some accessories add smarts to your setup.

• Insta360 Remote Control: This wrist-worn remote lets you start/stop recording without touching your camera. I used it for solo hiking videos, and it was a lifesaver.
• GoPro Smart Remote: Similar idea, but with a larger screen and longer range (up to 600 feet).

Putting It All Together: A Real-World Example

Let’s say you’re planning a weekend adventure: a sunrise hike, a midday kayak trip, and a sunset campfire. Here’s how you’d use your accessories for action cameras:

Activity	Accessories Used	Why They Work
Sunrise Hike	Helmet mount, ND filter, external mic	Helmet mount for POV, ND filter for smooth sky, mic for narration
Kayak Trip	Suction cup mount, polarizing filter, extra battery	Suction mount on kayak, filter for clear water, battery for long shoot
Campfire	Tripod, wireless mic, 128GB card	Tripod for stability, wireless mic for group audio, card for 4K footage

With the right accessories, every part of your adventure becomes a cinematic moment — not just a shaky memory.

The beauty of accessories for action cameras is that they’re not one-size-fits-all. You don’t need everything. Start with the basics — a good grip, an extra battery, and a polarizing filter — then add gear as your needs grow. The goal isn’t to collect gadgets; it’s to tell better stories. And when you see your footage come alive with stable shots, crisp audio, and vibrant colors, you’ll know it was worth it. So grab your camera, pick a few accessories, and go make something amazing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best accessories for action cameras to improve video quality?

Top accessories like external microphones, ND filters, and high-quality mounts can dramatically enhance your footage. These tools help stabilize audio, manage lighting, and secure your camera for professional-grade results.

Which action camera accessories are essential for underwater filming?

Waterproof housings, anti-fog inserts, and floating grips are must-haves for underwater adventures. These accessories protect your camera from water damage while ensuring clear, stable shots in aquatic environments.

Can I use third-party mounts with my GoPro or other action camera?

Yes, most third-party mounts are compatible with popular action cameras like GoPro, DJI, and Insta360. Always check the mounting system (e.g., GoPro-style clip or screw) before purchasing to ensure a secure fit.

How do I reduce wind noise when recording with my action camera?

Use a windscreen or deadcat microphone cover, especially for high-speed activities. For even better audio, pair it with an external mic—many action camera accessories now include dedicated audio solutions.

What are the most versatile accessories for action cameras in extreme sports?

Chest mounts, helmet straps, and handlebar mounts offer hands-free filming during biking, skiing, or climbing. These accessories keep your camera stable and capture immersive POV shots in high-motion scenarios.

Do I need a gimbal for my action camera, or is stabilization built-in enough?

While modern action cameras have excellent in-body stabilization, a compact gimbal adds extra smoothness for cinematic shots. It’s a valuable accessory for action cameras if you’re shooting dynamic scenes or vlogging.