Best Action Camera Ball Mounts for Stable Shots in 2024

Action camera ball mounts deliver unmatched stability and versatility for dynamic shots in 2024, making them essential for adventurers and content creators. With 360-degree adjustability and rugged, vibration-dampening designs, these mounts ensure smooth, cinematic footage across any terrain—whether you’re mountain biking, skiing, or diving. Top models now feature tool-free swaps and universal compatibility, setting a new standard for on-the-go filming.

Key Takeaways

• Choose ball mounts with anti-slip rubber for secure, vibration-free action shots.
• Prioritize quick-release mechanisms to swap angles fast during dynamic shoots.
• Opt for aluminum or reinforced polymer for durability in rugged conditions.
• Verify 360-degree rotation capability to capture seamless, multi-angle footage.
• Match mount thread size to your camera model for guaranteed compatibility.
• Use included safety leash to prevent drops in high-motion scenarios.

Why a Ball Mount Can Make or Break Your Action Camera Footage

If you’ve ever tried filming with an action camera, you know the struggle. You strap it to your helmet, your bike, your dog—only to watch the footage later and realize it’s shaky, crooked, or worse, pointing at the sky the whole time. I’ve been there. One of my earliest attempts at capturing a mountain bike descent turned into a 10-minute video of the ground and my handlebars, with zero usable shots. That’s when I discovered the unsung hero of action camera gear: the action camera ball mount.

Unlike standard mounts that lock your camera into one fixed angle, a ball mount gives you the freedom to adjust your shot on the fly. Think of it like a tiny tripod head that lets you pivot, tilt, and swivel your camera with precision. Whether you’re filming a high-speed skate session, a family hike, or a vlog from your kayak, a good ball mount keeps your footage stable, level, and perfectly framed—no more guessing or re-mounting mid-ride. In this guide, I’ll walk you through what makes a ball mount worth your money, how to pick the right one, and which models are actually worth your time in 2024.

What Is an Action Camera Ball Mount and Why Do You Need One?

Let’s start with the basics. An action camera ball mount is a small, adjustable mounting accessory that connects your camera (like a GoPro, DJI Osmo, or Insta360) to a base—whether that’s a helmet, chest harness, handlebar, or tripod. The “ball” part refers to the spherical joint that lets you rotate the camera 360 degrees and tilt it in any direction. Tighten the mount, and the camera stays put. Loosen it, and you can reframe your shot in seconds.

How It Differs from Standard Mounts

Standard mounts are great for simple setups—like strapping your camera to your chest for a POV shot. But they’re rigid. Once it’s on, it’s on. A ball mount, on the other hand, adds a level of flexibility that’s hard to beat. For example:

• Helmet mounting: A standard mount might tilt up or down slightly, but a ball mount lets you fine-tune the angle mid-ride. No more filming your boots or the skyline.
• Handlebar mounting: Bumpy roads? A ball mount lets you adjust for vibration and keep your horizon level, even on rough terrain.
• Tripod use: Want to film a time-lapse or a group shot? A ball mount lets you point your camera exactly where you need it, without reattaching anything.

Who Should Use a Ball Mount?

Honestly, anyone who uses an action camera more than once a year. But here’s who benefits most:

• Adventure sports enthusiasts: Skaters, bikers, climbers, and surfers who need dynamic angles and stable footage.
• Content creators: Vloggers and social media creators who want clean, professional-looking shots without carrying a full rig.
• Travelers and families: People who want to capture memories without worrying about shaky or misaligned videos.
• DIY tinkerers: If you’re into building custom rigs (like a chest mount with a swivel), ball mounts are essential.

I remember using a standard chest mount during a hiking trip. The trail was steep, and my camera kept pointing straight down at my knees. With a ball mount, I could’ve tilted it up slightly to capture the trail and the view. It’s those little details that make a big difference in the final video.

Key Features to Look for in a Quality Ball Mount

Not all ball mounts are created equal. Some are flimsy, some are overpriced, and some just don’t hold up under pressure. After testing a dozen models and reading countless user reviews, I’ve narrowed down the features that truly matter.

Build Quality and Materials

The last thing you want is a mount that snaps mid-ride. Look for mounts made from reinforced nylon, aluminum, or high-grade plastic. Aluminum mounts (like those from GoPro or Joby) are more durable and better for heavy-duty use, but they’re also heavier. Nylon and plastic mounts are lighter and often more affordable, but make sure they’re reinforced—especially around the ball joint.

Pro tip: Check for rubberized or textured grips on the ball. These help prevent slippage when you tighten the mount.

Adjustability and Range of Motion

The whole point of a ball mount is flexibility. You want a model that offers:

• 360-degree rotation (for horizontal panning)
• Near-vertical tilt (at least 90 degrees up and down)
• Smooth, fluid motion (no jerky adjustments)

Avoid mounts with “click” adjustments—they’re too rigid for action use. You want a smooth, continuous range of motion so you can make subtle tweaks on the fly.

Locking Mechanism

A good locking system should be easy to use but secure. Most mounts use a twist knob or lever to tighten the ball. The knob should be large enough to grip with gloves (if you’re biking or skiing), but not so big it gets in the way.

I once used a mount with a tiny plastic knob—great in theory, but impossible to adjust with cold fingers. Now I always test the knob size before buying.

Weight and Portability

If you’re mounting to a helmet or bike, every gram counts. Lightweight nylon mounts (under 50g) are ideal for long rides or hikes. But if you’re using a heavy camera (like a GoPro with a battery pack), you might need a sturdier aluminum mount to avoid wobble.

Compatibility

Most ball mounts use the GoPro-style 3-prong base, which works with GoPro, DJI Osmo Action, and most third-party action cams. But always double-check. Some mounts come with adapters for other systems (like Sony or Insta360), but others don’t. If you’re using a non-standard camera, look for mounts with universal screw threads (1/4”-20).

Price vs. Performance

You don’t need to spend $50 to get a good ball mount. I’ve found excellent options under $20, but they’re usually plastic and better for light use. Mid-range ($25–$40) is where you get the best balance of durability and features. High-end models (like GoPro’s official mounts) are worth it if you need extreme durability or specialized use (like underwater filming).

Top 5 Action Camera Ball Mounts in 2024 (Tested & Reviewed)

After months of testing, here are the five ball mounts that stood out—each for different reasons. I’ve used these in real-world scenarios, from mountain biking to kayaking, and here’s what I found.

1. GoPro Ball Joint Mount (Official)

Best for: Durability and brand loyalty
Price: $39.99
Weight: 62g
Material: Reinforced nylon with aluminum ball

This is the gold standard. The GoPro Ball Joint Mount is built like a tank. The twist knob is easy to grip, and the ball holds its position even on bumpy trails. I’ve used it on a downhill mountain bike run with zero slippage. The only downside? It’s a bit bulky for helmet use, and the price is on the higher side. But if you want reliability, this is it.

2. Joby GripTight PRO 2

Best for: Versatility and creative angles
Price: $44.95
Weight: 75g
Material: Aluminum with rubberized grip

Joby is known for tripods, but their ball mounts are just as good. The GripTight PRO 2 has a unique locking lever that’s easier to use than twist knobs—especially with gloves. It also comes with a cold shoe mount, so you can add a microphone or light. The only issue? The ball is a bit tight at first, so it takes some breaking in. But once it’s smooth, it’s butter.

3. Smatree Adjustable Ball Mount

Best for: Budget-friendly performance
Price: $16.99
Weight: 48g
Material: Reinforced nylon

Don’t let the price fool you. This mount punches way above its weight. It’s lightweight, easy to adjust, and holds a GoPro securely. I used it on a 20-mile bike ride, and it stayed put the whole time. The only thing missing is a rubberized ball—so it can slip if you don’t tighten it enough. But for casual use, it’s a steal.

4. Ulanzi ST-03

Best for: Vloggers and content creators
Price: $22.95
Weight: 54g
Material: Aluminum and nylon

This mount has a unique feature: a built-in level bubble. It’s a small thing, but it makes a huge difference when you’re trying to keep your horizon straight. The twist knob is smooth, and the ball holds its position well. I use it for vlogging, and it’s saved me from crooked shots more times than I can count. The only downside? The level bubble is tiny and hard to read in bright sunlight.

5. Peak Design Out Front Mount

Best for: Cyclists and handlebar use
Price: $49.95
Weight: 88g
Material: Anodized aluminum

This mount is overkill for most people, but if you’re a serious cyclist, it’s worth every penny. It’s designed specifically for handlebars, with a low-profile base that keeps your camera close to the stem. The ball joint is rock-solid, and the mount itself is nearly indestructible. I’ve crashed with this on my bike, and it didn’t even scratch. The only downside? It’s heavy and expensive. But for pro-level use, it’s unmatched.

How to Use a Ball Mount for Stable, Professional-Looking Shots

Having a ball mount is one thing—using it well is another. Here are my top tips for getting the most out of your action camera ball mount.

Leveling Your Shot

Nothing ruins a video faster than a crooked horizon. Use a level bubble (like the one on the Ulanzi ST-03) or your camera’s built-in horizon leveling (if it has one). If not, frame your shot so that the horizon line is visible, and use the ball mount to tilt until it’s straight.

Quick tip: If you’re filming on a bike, align the camera so the handlebars are horizontal—this gives you a natural reference.

Minimizing Vibration

Even with a ball mount, vibration can ruin your footage. To reduce shake:

• Use a rubberized or shock-absorbing base (like a silicone handlebar mount).
• Position the camera close to the mounting point—the shorter the lever, the less wobble.
• Tighten the ball mount firmly, but not so much it’s hard to adjust later.

Dynamic Angles for Better Storytelling

Don’t just point your camera forward. Use the ball mount to create interesting angles:

• Low-angle shots: Tilt the camera up slightly for a dramatic, “heroic” perspective.
• Over-the-shoulder shots: Mount on a chest harness and tilt the camera toward your back.
• Side views: Attach to a helmet side mount and pan the camera sideways.

I once filmed a skate session using a ball mount on my helmet, tilted slightly to the side. The result? A dynamic, cinematic shot that felt like a pro video.

On-the-Fly Adjustments

The real magic of a ball mount is adjusting mid-action. If you’re biking and the sun moves, loosen the knob, tilt the camera down to avoid glare, then tighten. Or if you’re vlogging and want to include a friend in the frame, just swivel the camera toward them.

Pro tip: Practice adjusting the mount before you hit record. The last thing you want is to fumble with it during a key moment.

Maintenance and Care

Ball mounts can collect dirt and grit, especially if you’re using them outdoors. Clean the ball and socket with a soft brush or cloth after each use. If it feels sticky, a drop of silicone lubricant can help (just avoid oil-based lubes—they attract dirt).

Action Camera Ball Mount Comparison Table (2024)

Model	Material	Weight	Adjustability	Locking Type	Best For	Price
GoPro Ball Joint Mount	Nylon/Aluminum	62g	360° + 90° tilt	Twist knob	Durability	$39.99
Joby GripTight PRO 2	Aluminum/Rubber	75g	360° + 120° tilt	Locking lever	Versatility	$44.95
Smatree Adjustable	Reinforced Nylon	48g	360° + 90° tilt	Twist knob	Budget use	$16.99
Ulanzi ST-03	Aluminum/Nylon	54g	360° + 90° tilt	Twist knob	Vlogging	$22.95
Peak Design Out Front	Anodized Aluminum	88g	360° + 90° tilt	Twist knob	Cyclists	$49.95

Final Thoughts: Is a Ball Mount Worth It?

Let’s be real: a action camera ball mount isn’t flashy. It’s not going to double your frame rate or add cinematic filters. But it might be the most practical upgrade you can make to your gear. It’s the difference between usable footage and footage you end up deleting.

I’ve used ball mounts in every kind of situation—from filming a thunderstorm on a hiking trail to capturing my kid’s first bike ride. They’re not perfect (some are heavy, some are expensive), but when you find the right one, it becomes part of your go-to kit. The ability to adjust your shot in seconds, keep your horizon level, and experiment with angles is invaluable.

My advice? Start with the Smatree if you’re on a budget, or the GoPro Ball Joint if you want something that’ll last years. If you’re into vlogging, the Ulanzi ST-03 is a great middle ground. And if you’re serious about cycling or adventure sports, don’t hesitate to invest in the Peak Design or Joby models.

At the end of the day, a ball mount is about control. Control over your framing, your stability, and your story. And in a world where everyone’s filming everything, that control is what separates good videos from great ones. So strap in, adjust that ball joint, and go make something worth watching.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an action camera ball mount and why do I need one?

An action camera ball mount is a flexible mounting accessory that uses a ball-and-socket mechanism to provide 360-degree adjustability for your camera. It’s ideal for achieving stable, dynamic shots in fast-paced environments like biking, skiing, or vlogging, making it a must-have for action camera users.

How do I choose the best action camera ball mount for my needs?

Look for mounts with durable materials (like aluminum or high-grade plastic), strong locking mechanisms, and compatibility with your camera model (e.g., GoPro, DJI). Prioritize mounts with vibration-dampening features for ultra-stable footage in 2024’s demanding action scenarios.

Can I use an action camera ball mount with other accessories?

Yes, many ball mounts feature standard 1/4″-20 or GoPro-style threads, allowing you to attach lights, microphones, or secondary cameras. Just ensure the mount’s weight capacity matches your gear to avoid instability.

Are ball mounts waterproof for underwater action shots?

Most ball mounts are water-resistant but not fully waterproof. For underwater use, pair them with a waterproof housing or choose mounts specifically rated for submersion (e.g., rated to 40m/130ft).

How do I prevent my action camera ball mount from loosening during use?

Tighten the ball joint securely before recording, and consider mounts with rubberized or textured grips to enhance friction. Some models include locking nuts or anti-slip designs for added security during high-impact activities.

What’s the difference between a ball mount and a traditional fixed mount?

A ball mount offers real-time angle adjustments without remounting, while fixed mounts are rigid. Ball mounts excel in versatility, letting you reframe shots instantly—perfect for unpredictable action or creative filming.