Action Camera Comparison Chart 2014 Top Picks and Reviews

The 2014 action camera market was defined by fierce competition, with top contenders like GoPro, Sony, and Garmin pushing boundaries in durability, image quality, and mounting versatility. Our Action Camera Comparison Chart 2014 cuts through the hype, ranking the year’s best models based on real-world performance, video resolution, battery life, and value. Whether you’re a pro athlete or weekend adventurer, this guide delivers the essential insights to choose the right camera for your action-packed lifestyle.

Key Takeaways

• Compare specs side-by-side: Use the chart to quickly evaluate resolution, frame rates, and battery life.
• Prioritize durability: Choose models with proven waterproof and shockproof performance for extreme conditions.
• Check mount compatibility: Ensure your preferred mounts work with the camera’s design before buying.
• Evaluate image stabilization: Opt for cameras with built-in stabilization for smoother action footage.
• Review app connectivity: Select cameras with reliable Wi-Fi/Bluetooth for easy sharing and remote control.
• Balance price and features: Match your budget to essential features, avoiding unnecessary extras.

Why the 2014 Action Camera Market Was a Game-Changer

If you were into outdoor adventures, extreme sports, or just capturing life’s wildest moments back in 2014, you know that action cameras were having a moment. It was the year when these tiny, rugged devices went from niche gadgets to must-have tools for vloggers, athletes, and weekend warriors alike. Remember when you first saw someone mount a camera on their helmet and film a full downhill mountain biking run? That was the magic of 2014—action cameras were no longer just for professionals. They were becoming accessible, affordable, and packed with features that made them indispensable.

But with so many brands and models flooding the market, choosing the right one felt like navigating a minefield. GoPro had already set the bar high with its Hero3 and Hero3+ series, but new players like Sony, Garmin, and Drift were stepping up their game. Suddenly, you had options—4K recording, image stabilization, Wi-Fi connectivity, and even touchscreen displays. It was exciting, yes, but also overwhelming. That’s why an action camera comparison chart 2014 wasn’t just helpful—it was essential. Whether you were a surfer chasing waves, a hiker exploring remote trails, or a parent recording your kid’s first skateboard trick, you needed a camera that could keep up. And that’s exactly what we’re diving into today.

Key Features to Look for in a 2014 Action Camera

Video Quality and Resolution

Back in 2014, 1080p was the sweet spot for most action cameras, but 4K was starting to make waves. GoPro’s Hero3+ Black Edition was one of the first to offer 4K at 15fps (frames per second), while others like the Sony Action Cam HDR-AS100V offered 1080p at 60fps, which was perfect for smooth slow-motion playback. The key wasn’t just resolution—it was frame rate. A 1080p video at 60fps looked way smoother than one at 30fps, especially when you were filming fast-paced action like skiing or BMX racing.

Here’s a quick tip: if you were planning to shoot in slow motion, look for cameras that offered 720p at 120fps. The Drift Ghost-S, for example, did this well, and it was a favorite among motorsports enthusiasts. But remember, higher frame rates meant larger file sizes. A 16GB card might only hold 20 minutes of 1080p/60fps footage, so storage planning was crucial.

Image Stabilization and Lens Quality

One thing that often got overlooked was lens quality. A wide-angle lens (around 170°) was standard, but not all lenses were created equal. GoPro used high-quality glass, which reduced distortion at the edges. In contrast, some budget models had softer corners, making your footage look a bit blurry when you zoomed in.

Electronic image stabilization (EIS) was still in its early stages in 2014. Only a few models, like the Sony HDR-AS200V, had it built-in. Most relied on post-processing or software stabilization. If you were filming on bumpy terrain—think trail running or motocross—EIS made a big difference. Without it, your videos could end up looking like a shaky home movie from the ’90s.

Durability and Mounting Options

Action cameras were built to survive the elements, but not all were created equal. The GoPro Hero3+ was waterproof up to 40 meters with its housing, while the Drift Ghost-S was rated for 3 meters without one. That meant if you were snorkeling or caught in a sudden downpour, GoPro had the edge.

Mounting flexibility was another big differentiator. GoPro’s ecosystem of mounts (chest, head, handlebar, suction cup) was unmatched. But some users preferred the Drift Ghost-S for its modular design—you could swap lenses and add accessories like external mics. If you were into custom setups, Drift offered more versatility. For example, a friend of mine used the Drift to film a full-day motorcycle trip, mounting it on his helmet, tank, and even the tailpipe (yes, really—it survived).

Top Contenders: The Best Action Cameras of 2014

GoPro Hero3+ Black Edition: The Benchmark

The Hero3+ Black was the gold standard in 2014. It offered 4K video (15fps), 1080p at 60fps, and a new SuperView mode that gave a wider, more immersive look. The image quality was sharp, and the color reproduction was vibrant—perfect for sunny beach days or snowy mountain runs.

But it wasn’t perfect. Battery life was a common gripe. On a single charge, you’d get about 1.5 hours of continuous 1080p/60fps recording. If you were filming a full day at the ski resort, you’d need at least two spare batteries. Also, the touchscreen on the optional LCD BacPac was sluggish. It worked, but it wasn’t as responsive as modern screens.

Sony Action Cam HDR-AS200V: The Dark Horse

Sony’s entry into the action cam market was impressive. The HDR-AS200V had 1080p at 60fps, built-in image stabilization, and a unique “SteadyShot” mode that worked even when the camera was mounted on a shaky surface. It also had a built-in GPS, which was great for tracking your speed and location during activities like trail running or cycling.

One standout feature was the ability to pair it with a wrist-mounted remote. You could start/stop recording without touching the camera—handy when you were wearing thick gloves or had the cam mounted out of reach. The downside? The battery life was only about 1 hour, and the app for iOS/Android was clunky. But if you prioritized stabilization and connectivity, Sony was a solid choice.

Drift Ghost-S: The Modular Maverick

The Drift Ghost-S was the rebel of the bunch. It had a 1080p/60fps mode, 720p/120fps for slow motion, and a unique “loop recording” feature that let you set it to continuously record, overwriting old footage when the card was full. This was perfect for security use or capturing unexpected moments—like a bear crossing your hiking trail.

Its modular design meant you could add an external mic, extra battery, or even a different lens. The flip-up screen was also a game-changer. Unlike GoPro’s rear screen (which required the BacPac), the Drift had a built-in screen that flipped up for selfies or framing shots. The only downside? It was slightly bulkier than the GoPro, which made helmet mounting a bit trickier.

Garmin VIRB Elite: The GPS Powerhouse

Garmin wasn’t just a GPS company—they brought their expertise to action cameras with the VIRB Elite. It had 1080p/60fps, but its real strength was the built-in GPS and sensors (accelerometer, barometer, compass). You could overlay speed, altitude, and G-force data onto your videos, which was a dream for athletes tracking their performance.

The VIRB also had a unique “G-Metrix” mode that analyzed your movements—think jump height, airtime, or cornering speed. For mountain bikers or skiers, this was gold. The downside? The interface was clunky, and the app was buggy. But if you wanted data-driven insights, Garmin was unmatched.

Contour+2: The Underdog with a Twist

The Contour+2 was the last of the “old guard”—a brand that focused on simplicity. It had 1080p/60fps, a laser alignment guide for perfect framing, and a top-mounted record button (great for gloves). The video quality was good, but it lacked Wi-Fi or app connectivity, which made sharing clips a pain in 2014’s social media-driven world.

Still, its “one-button” design was loved by users who wanted to set it and forget it. No menus, no settings—just press and go. If you were into backcountry skiing or fishing (where you didn’t want to fiddle with tech), the Contour+2 was a reliable pick.

Budget-Friendly Options: Getting the Most Bang for Your Buck

When to Skip the Premium Price Tag

Not everyone needed 4K or GPS. In 2014, budget action cameras like the Xiaomi Yi (yes, Xiaomi was in the game!) and the DBPower APEMAN offered 1080p/30fps for under $100. These weren’t GoPro killers, but they were great for casual use.

Take the Xiaomi Yi. It had a 16MP sensor, Wi-Fi, and a companion app for remote control. The video quality was surprisingly good in daylight, though low-light performance was poor. But for $99, it was a steal for vloggers or parents filming kids’ soccer games. The catch? The battery life was only 90 minutes, and the build quality felt a bit plasticky.

Hidden Gems in the Mid-Range

The Olympus TG-Tracker (released late 2014) was a wildcard. It was waterproof to 30 meters, shockproof to 2.1 meters, and had built-in GPS and a barometer. It shot 1080p/30fps, but its real strength was durability. It could survive a fall off a kayak or a drop into a river—something GoPro users had to worry about.

Another mid-tier option was the Sony HDR-AZ1, a tiny cube-shaped cam that fit in your pocket. It had 1080p/60fps and Wi-Fi, and its small size made it perfect for mounting on a drone or a pet harness. The downside? The battery life was only 50 minutes, and the lens had noticeable fisheye distortion.

Tips for Saving Money Without Sacrificing Quality

• Buy last year’s model: The GoPro Hero3 (not the +) was still excellent in 2014 and cost $100 less than the Hero3+.
• Skip the extras: You didn’t need the LCD BacPac or extra mounts right away. Buy them later if you need them.
• Check for bundles: Many retailers offered “starter kits” with extra batteries, mounts, and memory cards—great value.
• Look for refurbished: Refurbished GoPros from the official site were often 30% off and came with a warranty.

Accessories That Made a Difference in 2014

Must-Have Add-Ons for Every Camera

Even the best camera was only as good as its accessories. In 2014, these were the essentials:

• Extra batteries: Most action cams lasted 1–2 hours. Carry at least two spares for all-day filming.
• MicroSD cards: 64GB Class 10 cards were ideal for 1080p/60fps. Avoid cheap cards—they could corrupt your footage.
• Waterproof housings: Even “waterproof” cams like the Drift needed a housing for deep diving.
• External mics: Built-in mics picked up wind noise. A lavalier mic (like the Rode SmartLav+) improved audio quality.

Mounts: The Unsung Heroes

Mounts were where creativity met practicality. GoPro’s suction cup mount was perfect for cars, while the chest harness was ideal for skiing. The Joby GorillaPod was a favorite for vloggers—you could wrap it around a tree branch or a fence for unique angles.

One of my favorite setups was the Handlebar Mount on a mountain bike. It gave a first-person view of the trail, and the vibration from the ride actually made the footage more immersive. But remember: not all mounts were compatible with all cameras. Check the specs before buying.

Apps and Software: The Digital Side

In 2014, Wi-Fi and app connectivity were still new. GoPro’s app let you preview shots and change settings remotely, but it was slow and prone to disconnecting. Sony’s app was better for GPS tracking, while Drift’s app had a unique “story builder” feature that auto-edited clips into a mini-movie.

For post-production, GoPro’s Studio software (free) was the go-to for editing and color correction. But if you were on a Mac, iMovie worked well too. Just don’t expect Hollywood-level effects—2014 software was basic.

Data Table: Action Camera Comparison Chart 2014

Model	Max Resolution	Frame Rates	Waterproof	Battery Life	Special Features	Price (USD)
GoPro Hero3+ Black	4K	1080p/60fps, 720p/120fps	40m (with housing)	1.5 hrs	SuperView, Wi-Fi, App	$399
Sony HDR-AS200V	1080p	1080p/60fps, 720p/120fps	60m (with housing)	1 hr	SteadyShot, GPS, Remote	$299
Drift Ghost-S	1080p	1080p/60fps, 720p/120fps	3m (without housing)	3 hrs	Flip-up screen, Loop recording	$399
Garmin VIRB Elite	1080p	1080p/60fps	50m (with housing)	2 hrs	GPS, G-Metrix, Barometer	$399
Xiaomi Yi	1080p	1080p/30fps	30m (with housing)	1.5 hrs	Wi-Fi, App, 16MP sensor	$99
Olympus TG-Tracker	1080p	1080p/30fps	30m	2 hrs	GPS, Barometer, Shockproof	$399

Final Thoughts: What 2014 Taught Us About Action Cameras

Looking back, 2014 was a turning point for action cameras. It was the year when features that are now standard—4K, Wi-Fi, image stabilization—started appearing on mainstream models. The action camera comparison chart 2014 wasn’t just a buying guide; it was a snapshot of a rapidly evolving market. Brands were experimenting, users were demanding more, and the result was a wave of innovation that shaped the next decade of action filming.

If you were choosing a camera in 2014, the decision came down to your priorities. Need 4K and the best ecosystem? GoPro. Want stabilization and GPS? Sony or Garmin. Craving modularity and long battery life? Drift. And if you were on a budget, the Xiaomi Yi proved you didn’t have to spend a fortune to get great footage.

Today, many of these cameras are outdated, but the lessons they taught us are timeless. Think about your use case. Do you need slow motion? GPS data? A flip-up screen? The right camera isn’t the one with the most features—it’s the one that fits your life. So whether you’re revisiting 2014 tech or just curious about the history of action cams, remember: the best camera is the one you’ll actually use. And in 2014, that camera was out there, waiting to capture your next adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-rated action cameras in the 2014 comparison chart?

The Action Camera Comparison Chart 2014 highlights top picks like the GoPro Hero4 Black, Sony Action Cam HDR-AS100V, and Garmin VIRB Elite, based on video quality, durability, and features. These models stood out for their 4K/1080p recording, rugged designs, and advanced stabilization.

How do I choose the best action camera for my needs in 2014?

Consider factors like resolution (4K vs. 1080p), frame rates, battery life, and accessory compatibility. The 2014 chart helps narrow options by comparing specs, such as low-light performance and mounting versatility, tailored to activities like diving or biking.

Which 2014 action camera offers the best video quality?

The GoPro Hero4 Black leads the Action Camera Comparison Chart 2014 with 4K at 30fps and 1080p at 120fps, ideal for slow-motion shots. Sony’s AS100V also excels with its Exmor R sensor for crisp, low-noise footage.

Are budget-friendly action cameras worth it in the 2014 market?

Yes—models like the Yi Action Camera and SJCam SJ4000 offer 1080p recording and Wi-Fi at lower prices. While they lack 4K or advanced stabilization, they’re great for casual users on a budget.

What accessories are essential for 2014 action cameras?

Key accessories include waterproof housings, chest mounts, and extra batteries for extended use. The 2014 chart notes compatibility with third-party gear, like GoPro mounts, for added flexibility.

How does image stabilization compare across 2014 action cameras?

High-end models like the GoPro Hero4 Black feature digital stabilization, while others rely on lens-based systems (e.g., Sony’s SteadyShot). The Action Camera Comparison Chart 2014 breaks down stabilization performance for smooth footage in rough conditions.