Action Camera Comparison 2019 Top Picks and Key Differences

The 2019 action camera comparison reveals that image stabilization, resolution, and durability are the top deciding factors for adventurers and content creators. With standout models like the GoPro Hero7 Black, DJI Osmo Action, and Sony RX0 II, key differences in low-light performance, rugged design, and user interface help narrow the best pick for your needs. Whether you’re chasing extreme sports or vlogging your travels, this breakdown cuts through the hype to spotlight real-world performance and value.

Key Takeaways

• Choose GoPro Hero7 Black for unmatched stabilization and 4K60fps video quality.
• DJI Osmo Action rivals GoPro with dual screens and better low-light performance.
• Prioritize battery life—some models last 30% longer under heavy use.
• Waterproof ratings vary; check depth limits before underwater adventures.
• Accessory compatibility matters—older mounts may not fit new models.
• Voice control improves usability in fast-paced action scenarios.

Why Choosing the Right Action Camera Matters in 2019

Let’s be honest—picking an action camera in 2019 feels like trying to choose a favorite flavor at an ice cream shop with 50 options. You want something that captures your mountain biking adventure, your snorkeling trip, or that epic surf session without breaking the bank or your patience. Action cameras have come a long way since the early days of bulky, low-resolution gear. Now, they’re compact, rugged, and packed with features that even pro filmmakers appreciate.

But with so many options flooding the market—GoPro, DJI, Sony, Garmin, and more—how do you know which one is right for you? That’s where this action camera comparison 2019 comes in. I’ve spent hours testing, comparing, and even dropping these cameras (accidentally, of course) to give you the real scoop. Whether you’re a vlogger, an adrenaline junkie, or a weekend warrior, this guide will help you cut through the noise and find the perfect match.

Top Contenders in the 2019 Action Camera Comparison

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let’s meet the main players in this year’s showdown. These are the cameras that dominated the market and earned their spot in our action camera comparison 2019:

• GoPro Hero7 Black – The reigning champion with a reputation for reliability and innovation.
• DJI Osmo Action – GoPro’s biggest rival, offering a fresh take on design and stabilization.
• Sony RX0 II – A premium compact with a large sensor and cinema-grade quality.
• Garmin VIRB Ultra 30 – A GPS-heavy favorite for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Insta360 One R (1-Inch Edition) – A modular powerhouse with a Leica co-engineered sensor.

Each of these cameras brings something unique to the table. The key is figuring out what matters most to *you*. Are you chasing 4K footage? Need rock-solid stabilization? Or maybe you want a camera that doubles as a vlogging tool? Let’s break it down.

GoPro Hero7 Black: The Gold Standard

The Hero7 Black set a high bar in 2019. It’s not just about 4K60 video or 1080p240 slow-mo (though those are impressive). What really stands out is HyperSmooth stabilization—GoPro’s answer to gimbals. I tested this on a rocky trail run, and the footage looked like it was shot with a $500 rig. No jello effect, no wobbles. Just smooth, cinematic motion.

Another standout? TimeWarp, which turns your walking shots into hyperlapse videos with stabilization built-in. Perfect for vloggers or anyone who wants dynamic travel content without carrying extra gear. The downside? The touchscreen can be sluggish in cold weather, and the battery life (2.5 hours) isn’t great for long hikes.

Pro tip: Pair it with the GoPro app for seamless editing and sharing. The QuikStories feature automatically stitches clips into shareable videos—great for beginners.

DJI Osmo Action: The Challenger

DJI, known for drones, shook up the action cam world with the Osmo Action. Its dual screens (front and back) are a game-changer for vloggers. Imagine framing your ski selfie without guessing if you’re in the shot. The front screen is 1.4 inches and bright enough for outdoor use.

DJI’s RockSteady stabilization is almost as good as GoPro’s HyperSmooth. I compared them side-by-side on a mountain bike, and the difference was barely noticeable. The Osmo Action also has a slightly better battery (2.7 hours) and a more intuitive menu system. But… the app is clunkier, and the lens cover is a pain to remove for cleaning.

Real-world example: A friend used the Osmo Action for a scuba diving trip. The underwater colors were vibrant, but the touchscreen stopped working at 10 meters. DJI later fixed this with a firmware update—just keep your camera updated!

Sony RX0 II: The Premium Pick

Sony’s RX0 II is the “iPhone of action cameras”—small, sleek, but pricey. Its 1-inch sensor captures stunning detail and performs well in low light. I shot a sunset surf session, and the dynamic range blew me away. The camera also shoots 4K with no pixel binning (unlike GoPro), meaning sharper footage.

But there’s a catch: no stabilization. You’ll need a gimbal or post-processing to smooth out shaky clips. The RX0 II is also fragile compared to GoPro or DJI. One drop on concrete cracked the lens. And at $700, it’s hard to justify unless you’re a serious filmmaker.

When to choose it: If you prioritize image quality over ruggedness or need a B-camera for professional shoots.

Key Features Compared: What Sets These Cameras Apart?

Now that we’ve met the contenders, let’s get into the weeds. Here’s how these cameras stack up on the features that matter most.

Stabilization: The Battle of the Gimbals

Stabilization is everything. A shaky video can ruin an epic moment. Here’s how the top cameras perform:

• GoPro Hero7 Black: HyperSmooth is the best-in-class. It uses a wide-angle crop to stabilize footage without a gimbal. Even in 4K, the results are buttery smooth.
• DJI Osmo Action: RockSteady is a close second. It’s slightly less aggressive than HyperSmooth, which means less cropping. Great for wide-angle shots.
• Sony RX0 II: No built-in stabilization. You’ll need external tools like Adobe Premiere’s warp stabilizer or a gimbal.
• Insta360 One R: FlowState stabilization is excellent for 360 videos but less effective in 4K single-lens mode.

Tip: For extreme sports (e.g., downhill mountain biking), GoPro’s HyperSmooth wins. For vlogging, DJI’s dual screens + stabilization combo is unbeatable.

Video Quality: Resolution, Frame Rates, and Low Light

Most 2019 action cameras shoot 4K, but not all 4K is created equal. Let’s compare:

• GoPro Hero7 Black: 4K60, 1080p240. Good dynamic range, but shadows can get noisy.
• DJI Osmo Action: 4K60, 1080p240. Similar to GoPro, with slightly better color science.
• Sony RX0 II: 4K30 (no 60fps), but the 1-inch sensor delivers better detail and low-light performance.
• Insta360 One R (1-Inch): 5.3K30, with a larger sensor than GoPro. Great for cropping or reframing shots in post.

Real-world test: I filmed a night hike with the GoPro and DJI. Both struggled with noise, but the DJI preserved colors better. For low light, Sony is the clear winner—if you can live with 30fps.

Audio: Can You Hear Me Now?

Audio is often an afterthought, but it’s crucial for vloggers. Here’s the breakdown:

• GoPro Hero7 Black: Built-in mic is okay but picks up wind noise. Use the Media Mod (sold separately) for better sound.
• DJI Osmo Action: Better wind resistance. The mic is front-facing, which helps with voice clarity.
• Sony RX0 II: Excellent audio quality, but no mic input. You’re stuck with the built-in mic.
• Garmin VIRB Ultra 30: Includes a mic input and wind noise reduction—ideal for outdoor narration.

Pro tip: Always use an external mic for vlogging. The Rode VideoMicro is a popular budget option.

Design and Usability: Size, Durability, and Ease of Use

A camera’s specs are important, but so is how it feels in your hands. Let’s talk design.

Size and Mounting

Most action cameras are small, but differences matter:

• GoPro Hero7 Black: Classic design. Compatible with 100+ mounts. The side door for battery/microSD is fiddly.
• DJI Osmo Action: Slightly bulkier but has a built-in mounting system. No need for a separate frame.
• Sony RX0 II: Tiny but fragile. The lens protrudes, making it prone to scratches.
• Insta360 One R: Modular design lets you swap lenses/batteries. The 1-inch edition is bulkier than the standard model.

Example: I used the DJI on a helmet for a motorcycle ride. The built-in mounts saved me time, but the camera’s size made it wobble at high speeds.

Durability: Water, Shock, and Temperature

Action cameras are built to take a beating, but some handle abuse better:

• GoPro Hero7 Black: Waterproof to 33ft (10m) without a housing. Survived my accidental drop down a ski slope.
• DJI Osmo Action: Waterproof to 36ft (11m). The lens cover is a weak point—mine cracked after a beach trip.
• Sony RX0 II: Waterproof to 33ft, but the body isn’t as rugged. One friend cracked the screen on a rock.
• Garmin VIRB Ultra 30: Built like a tank. Survived a kayaking mishap in whitewater rapids.

Tip: For extreme sports, prioritize shockproofing over extra features. The Garmin and GoPro are the toughest.

User Interface and Touchscreen

A clunky menu can ruin your workflow. Here’s how they compare:

• GoPro Hero7 Black: Touchscreen is responsive but freezes in cold weather. Voice commands work well.
• DJI Osmo Action: Simpler menu system. The front screen makes vlogging easy.
• Sony RX0 II: Tiny screen with tiny buttons. Not ideal for quick adjustments.
• Insta360 One R: App-based control is smooth but requires a phone for most settings.

Real-world test: I tried changing settings on the Sony while snorkeling. The tiny buttons were frustrating—stick to presets.

Battery Life, Accessories, and Ecosystem

No one wants their camera dying mid-adventure. Let’s talk power and add-ons.

Battery Life and Charging

Average battery life (in minutes):

• GoPro Hero7 Black: 90 (4K60)
• DJI Osmo Action: 110 (4K60)
• Sony RX0 II: 60 (4K30)
• Insta360 One R: 70 (5.3K30)
• Garmin VIRB Ultra 30: 100 (4K30)

The DJI leads here, but the Hero7’s Quick Charge (50% in 30 mins) is a lifesaver. Sony’s battery life is the worst—bring spares.

Accessories and Expandability

What can you add on?

• GoPro: Media Mod (mic + HDMI), Max Lens Mod (for 360), and 100+ mounts.
• DJI: Limited accessories. The Charging Hub is handy for multiple batteries.
• Insta360: Modular design lets you swap lenses (360, 4K, 1-inch). The Drone Mount is unique.
• Garmin: GPS and ANT+ compatibility for tracking speed, altitude, and more.

Tip: The Insta360’s modularity is perfect for creators who want versatility. For GPS junkies, Garmin is king.

Software and App Experience

Editing and sharing matter. Here’s how the apps compare:

• GoPro: Quik app is beginner-friendly. Auto-editing is great for social media.
• DJI: Mimo app is improving but lags behind GoPro.
• Insta360: Reframe tool for 360 videos is revolutionary. App is smooth but complex.
• Garmin: VIRB Edit is powerful for data overlays (speed, heart rate).

Example: I edited a 360 video with Insta360’s app. The reframing tool let me “direct” the shot after filming—mind-blowing!

Price and Value: Which Camera is Right for You?

Let’s talk money. Here’s a quick price comparison (2019 MSRP):

• GoPro Hero7 Black: $399
• DJI Osmo Action: $349
• Sony RX0 II: $699
• Insta360 One R (1-inch): $549
• Garmin VIRB Ultra 30: $499

Budget-Friendly Picks

The DJI Osmo Action is the best value. At $50 less than the GoPro, it offers similar performance with unique perks (dual screens, better battery). The GoPro Hero7 White ($199) is a solid budget alternative, though it lacks 4K60 and HyperSmooth.

Mid-Range and Premium Options

For creators who want versatility, the Insta360 One R is worth the splurge. The modular design lets you switch between 360, 4K, and 1-inch modes. If you’re a filmmaker, the Sony RX0 II is unmatched for image quality—but only if you can afford the extra gear (gimbal, mic, etc.).

Best for Specific Use Cases

• Adrenaline Sports: GoPro Hero7 Black (best stabilization).
• Vlogging: DJI Osmo Action (dual screens).
• Professional Filmmaking: Sony RX0 II (1-inch sensor).
• 360 Video: Insta360 One R (modular design).
• Outdoor Tracking: Garmin VIRB Ultra 30 (GPS/ANT+).

Final Thoughts: Making Your Decision

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer in this action camera comparison 2019. Your choice depends on what you value most: stabilization, image quality, battery life, or ecosystem. Here’s how to decide:

• First-time buyer? Start with the DJI Osmo Action. It’s affordable, easy to use, and great for vlogging.
• Serious adventurer? GoPro Hero7 Black is the most reliable.
• Filmmaker or pro? Sony RX0 II or Insta360 One R for versatility.
• Outdoor enthusiast? Garmin VIRB Ultra 30 for data tracking.

Remember: action cameras are tools, not trophies. Focus on the features that align with your needs, not the hype. And always test before you buy—rent or borrow a friend’s camera to see what feels right. Happy filming!

Frequently Asked Questions

What were the top action cameras in the 2019 action camera comparison?

The leading models in the 2019 action camera comparison included the GoPro Hero7 Black, DJI Osmo Action, and Sony RX0 II. These stood out for their 4K stabilization, rugged designs, and innovative features like front-facing screens and HDR video.

How does the GoPro Hero7 Black compare to the DJI Osmo Action in 2019?

The GoPro Hero7 Black excelled with HyperSmooth stabilization and better app integration, while the DJI Osmo Action offered a competitive dual-screen design and RockSteady stabilization at a lower price. Both delivered excellent 4K video quality, making them top contenders in the 2019 action camera comparison.

Which 2019 action camera has the best battery life?

The DJI Osmo Action led in battery life, offering up to 135 minutes of 1080p recording. The GoPro Hero7 Black followed closely with 110 minutes, while smaller cameras like the Sony RX0 II required spare batteries for extended use.

Are there budget-friendly options in the 2019 action camera comparison?

Yes, the Akaso V50 Pro and Campark X30 provided solid 4K video and basic stabilization at under $200. While lacking premium features like front screens or advanced stabilization, they were ideal for casual users on a tight budget.

Which action camera is best for low-light performance in 2019?

The Sony RX0 II outperformed others in low-light conditions thanks to its 1-inch sensor and f/4.0 lens. The GoPro Hero7 Black and DJI Osmo Action relied on smaller sensors but improved low-light results via software processing and HDR modes.

Do 2019 action cameras support live streaming?

Yes, the GoPro Hero7 Black was the first to offer native live streaming via Wi-Fi or LTE at 720p resolution. Other models like the DJI Osmo Action required third-party apps or external devices for live streaming functionality.