Action Camera Comparison Chart 2017 Top Picks and Key Features

The 2017 action camera comparison chart highlights top picks based on performance, durability, and value, helping adventurers choose the perfect model for extreme conditions. Featuring key specs like 4K video, image stabilization, and waterproof ratings, this guide cuts through the noise to spotlight the year’s best performers—from budget-friendly options to pro-grade gear.

Key Takeaways

• Prioritize resolution: Choose 4K for sharpest footage in fast-moving scenarios.
• Stabilization matters: Opt for built-in EIS to reduce shaky action shots.
• Battery life varies: Carry spares for extended outdoor filming sessions.
• Waterproof ratings differ: Check housing depth limits before underwater use.
• Accessory compatibility: Verify mounts and add-ons for seamless gear integration.
• Low-light performance: Test night footage quality before buying for dim environments.

Why Choosing the Right Action Camera Matters

Remember that time you went skydiving and wanted to capture every scream, every flip, and that breathtaking view as you floated down? Or maybe you were mountain biking down a gnarly trail and thought, “I wish I had footage of this!” That’s where action cameras come in—tiny, rugged, and ready for adventure. But with so many options on the market in 2017, picking the right one can feel like trying to find your way through a foggy forest. That’s why we put together this action camera comparison chart 2017—to help you cut through the noise and find the perfect match for your lifestyle.

Whether you’re a weekend warrior, a professional filmmaker, or just someone who loves sharing epic moments on Instagram, the right action camera can make all the difference. But it’s not just about the highest resolution or the longest battery life. It’s about how well the camera fits *you*—your budget, your adventures, and your tech comfort level. In this guide, we’ll walk through the top contenders of 2017, compare their key features, and even share some real-world tips to help you make an informed decision. No fluff, no hype—just honest insights from someone who’s tested these little powerhouses in the wild.

Top Contenders in the 2017 Action Camera Market

2017 was a big year for action cameras. The competition was fierce, and innovation was at an all-time high. While GoPro still ruled the roost, brands like Sony, DJI, Garmin, and Yi were stepping up their game. Let’s meet the main players in our action camera comparison chart 2017.

GoPro Hero5 Black: The Industry Standard

The GoPro Hero5 Black was the gold standard in 2017. It wasn’t just about specs—it was about ecosystem. With built-in GPS, voice control, and a sleek waterproof design (up to 10m without a housing), it was a dream for adventurers. The 4K video at 30fps and 1080p at 120fps made it ideal for slow-motion shots. Plus, the touchscreen was a game-changer—no more squinting at tiny buttons.

But here’s the catch: the battery life was only about 90 minutes in 4K, and the price tag was steep. Still, if you wanted a reliable, feature-packed camera, this was the one to beat.

Sony FDR-X3000: The Stabilization King

Sony’s FDR-X3000 stood out with its Balanced Optical SteadyShot (B.O.SS) stabilization—essentially a built-in gimbal. That meant buttery-smooth footage, even on bumpy mountain bike trails or while skiing down a mogul field. It shot 4K video and had a Zeiss lens for crisp, vibrant colors.

The downside? It was bulkier than the GoPro, and the menu system felt clunky compared to GoPro’s intuitive interface. But if smooth footage was your top priority, this was a serious contender.

DJI Osmo Action: The New Kid on the Block

Wait—DJI? The drone company? Yes, and they surprised everyone with the Osmo Action. Launched later in 2017, it packed a dual-screen setup: a rear touchscreen *and* a front-facing screen for vloggers. It shot 4K at 60fps, had excellent image stabilization, and was priced competitively.

The early models had some firmware bugs, and the app wasn’t as polished as GoPro’s. But for content creators who wanted to film themselves (think: travel vlogs or workout videos), the front screen was a revelation.

Garmin VIRB Ultra 30: The Data-Driven Choice

Garmin’s VIRB Ultra 30 wasn’t just a camera—it was a data logger. With built-in GPS, altimeter, and accelerometer, it captured not just video but also speed, altitude, and G-force data. Perfect for skiers, racers, or anyone who wanted to overlay telemetry on their footage.

The downside? It was heavier, and the interface felt more like a fitness tracker than a camera. But for data nerds, it was a dream come true.

Yi 4K+: The Budget Powerhouse

Yi’s 4K+ was the dark horse. It shot 4K at 60fps—something even GoPro didn’t offer at the time—and had a 2.2-inch touchscreen. The price? Less than half of the Hero5 Black. It even supported external microphones.

But the app was buggy, and customer support was hit-or-miss. Still, if you were on a budget and wanted high-res video, this was a steal.

Key Features Compared: What Really Matters?

When comparing action cameras, it’s easy to get lost in specs. But not all features are created equal. Let’s break down the ones that actually matter—based on real-world use, not just marketing hype.

Video Quality and Resolution

4K was the gold standard in 2017, but not all 4K is the same. The GoPro Hero5 Black and Yi 4K+ both shot 4K, but the Hero5 had better color grading and dynamic range. The Sony FDR-X3000’s 4K was sharp, but the stabilization stole the show. The DJI Osmo Action’s 4K/60fps was great for fast action, but the bitrate was lower than GoPro’s.

Pro tip: If you’re filming in low light (like dawn or dusk), look for a camera with a larger sensor. The Sony FDR-X3000 had a slight edge here, but the GoPro Hero5 wasn’t far behind.

Stabilization: Smooth vs. Bumpy

Stabilization is everything. Without it, your footage looks like a shaky cam from a 90s horror movie. The Sony FDR-X3000’s B.O.SS was the best—no contest. The DJI Osmo Action and GoPro Hero5 used electronic image stabilization (EIS), which was good but not as smooth. The Yi 4K+ had EIS, but it struggled with fast motion.

Real-world example: I took the Sony FDR-X3000 mountain biking. Even on rocky trails, the footage was smooth. The GoPro Hero5? Decent, but I could see the jitters when I hit a bump.

Battery Life: How Long Can It Last?

Battery life varies *a lot*. The GoPro Hero5 Black: 90 minutes in 4K. The DJI Osmo Action: about 120 minutes. The Yi 4K+: 100 minutes, but it drained faster in cold weather. The Garmin VIRB Ultra 30: 100 minutes, but the GPS and sensors ate up power.

Tip: Always pack a spare battery—or two. And if you’re filming in the cold (like skiing), keep the camera close to your body to preserve battery.

Waterproofing and Durability

Most action cameras are waterproof, but the depth ratings differ. The GoPro Hero5 Black and DJI Osmo Action were waterproof to 10m without a housing. The Sony FDR-X3000 needed a housing for anything deeper than 1m. The Yi 4K+ was rated to 40m *with* a housing, but the housing was sold separately.

Anecdote: I once dropped my GoPro Hero5 into a river. It survived, but the housing’s seal was compromised. Lesson: always check the seals, and consider investing in a third-party housing for extra protection.

Ease of Use and Interface

A great camera is useless if you can’t operate it with gloves on. The GoPro Hero5 Black’s touchscreen was intuitive—tap to record, swipe to change modes. The DJI Osmo Action’s dual screens were genius for self-filming. The Garmin VIRB Ultra 30’s interface felt clunky, with too many menus. The Yi 4K+’s touchscreen was responsive, but the app was frustrating.

Tip: Test the camera in your intended environment. Can you change settings while skiing? Can you review footage with wet hands? These small things matter.

Accessories and Ecosystem: Beyond the Camera

A camera is just the start. The real magic happens with accessories. In 2017, the ecosystem was a major differentiator.

Mounts and Attachments

GoPro dominated here. Their mounts were everywhere—chest straps, head straps, bike mounts, suction cups. You could mount a GoPro on a helmet, a surfboard, or even a dog (yes, really). DJI and Sony had good mounts, but the selection was smaller. Yi and Garmin were catching up, but their accessory lines were limited.

Real-world use: I once used a GoPro chest mount while kayaking. The footage was epic—until the mount loosened and the camera fell in. Lesson: always double-check your mounts, and consider a safety tether.

Audio and External Microphones

Built-in mics on action cameras are… okay. But for vloggers or interviews, an external mic is a must. The GoPro Hero5 Black and Yi 4K+ had mic inputs. The DJI Osmo Action didn’t, but it had a wind noise reduction feature. The Sony FDR-X3000 needed an adapter for external mics.

Tip: If you’re filming in windy conditions (like on a boat or a bike), use a deadcat (furry windscreen) or record audio separately and sync it in post.

Apps and Editing Tools

GoPro’s Quik app was the gold standard. It auto-edited footage, added music, and even stabilized shaky clips. DJI’s app was improving but still buggy. Sony’s PlayMemories Mobile was functional but clunky. Yi’s app was… let’s just say it needed work.

Pro tip: Even if your camera doesn’t have a great app, you can edit footage on your phone or computer. Apps like Adobe Premiere Rush or iMovie are great for quick edits.

Storage and Compatibility

All cameras used microSD cards, but the speed requirements varied. For 4K, you needed a UHS-I card with at least 10MB/s write speed. The GoPro Hero5 Black recommended a Class 10 card. The Yi 4K+ could handle slower cards, but 4K/60fps needed a U3 card.

Anecdote: I once used a cheap microSD card in my Yi 4K+. It corrupted after a few hours of filming. Lesson: invest in a high-quality card—it’s worth it.

Budget vs. Premium: Finding the Right Balance

Not everyone needs a $400 camera. The 2017 market had options for every budget—from $100 to $500. Let’s break it down.

Under $200: Yi 4K+ and Garmin VIRB XE

The Yi 4K+ was the standout here. 4K/60fps, touchscreen, and a mic input for under $200? Yes, please. The Garmin VIRB XE (an older model) was also great for data lovers, but it lacked 4K.

Who it’s for: Budget-conscious adventurers, vloggers, or anyone who wants high-res video without breaking the bank.

$200–$350: DJI Osmo Action and Sony AS300

The DJI Osmo Action was the sweet spot. 4K/60fps, dual screens, and solid stabilization for $300. The Sony AS300 (a cheaper version of the FDR-X3000) had good stabilization but no 4K.

Who it’s for: Content creators who want a front-facing screen, or anyone who values smooth footage over 4K.

$350+: GoPro Hero5 Black and Sony FDR-X3000

The GoPro Hero5 Black was the premium choice. 4K, voice control, GPS, and the best ecosystem. The Sony FDR-X3000 was pricier but offered unbeatable stabilization.

Who it’s for: Professionals, serious adventurers, or anyone who wants the best of the best.

Hidden Costs to Consider

Don’t forget the extras: spare batteries, mounts, microSD cards, and housing. A $300 camera can easily become a $500 setup. The GoPro Hero5 Black’s accessories were expensive but high-quality. Third-party options were cheaper but sometimes less reliable.

Tip: Look for starter kits. Many brands offered bundles with mounts, batteries, and cases at a discount.

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Action Camera Comparison Chart 2017: The Data

Here’s a quick-reference table of the top cameras in 2017. Use it to compare specs side by side.

Model	Max Resolution	Stabilization	Battery Life (4K)	Waterproof (No Housing)	Price (USD)
GoPro Hero5 Black	4K @ 30fps	EIS	90 min	10m	$399
Sony FDR-X3000	4K @ 30fps	B.O.SS (Optical)	100 min	1m (with housing)	$499
DJI Osmo Action	4K @ 60fps	EIS	120 min	10m	$349
Garmin VIRB Ultra 30	4K @ 30fps	EIS	100 min	10m	$449
Yi 4K+	4K @ 60fps	EIS	100 min	40m (with housing)	$199

Remember: specs don’t tell the whole story. A camera with 4K/60fps might struggle in low light, while one with optical stabilization might lack features. Always consider your needs.

Final Thoughts: Which One Should You Choose?

After testing these cameras in real-world conditions—skiing, biking, hiking, and even filming a friend’s wedding—I’ve learned that the “best” camera depends on *you*. Here’s how to decide:

If you want **the best all-around camera**, go for the GoPro Hero5 Black. It’s not the cheapest, but the ecosystem, ease of use, and reliability are unmatched. It’s the camera I grab when I’m not sure what adventure lies ahead.

If **smooth footage** is your priority, the Sony FDR-X3000 is worth the extra cost. The stabilization is magical, and the image quality is excellent. Just be prepared for the bulk.

If you’re a **vlogger or content creator**, the DJI Osmo Action is a no-brainer. The front screen makes self-filming effortless, and the price is right.

If you love **data and telemetry**, the Garmin VIRB Ultra 30 is a unique choice. It’s not for everyone, but for racers and athletes, it’s a game-changer.

And if you’re on a **tight budget**, the Yi 4K+ delivers incredible value. It’s not perfect, but for under $200, it’s hard to beat.

At the end of the day, no camera is perfect. But with this action camera comparison chart 2017, you now have the tools to find the one that fits your life. So get out there, film your adventures, and share your story. The world is waiting to see what you capture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-rated action cameras in the 2017 comparison chart?

The 2017 action camera comparison chart highlights top picks like the GoPro Hero6 Black, DJI Osmo Action, and Sony RX0, based on video quality, durability, and advanced features. These models stood out for their 4K resolution, image stabilization, and rugged designs.

How does the GoPro Hero6 perform compared to other 2017 action cameras?

In the 2017 action camera comparison, the GoPro Hero6 excels with its 60fps 4K video, improved image stabilization, and faster processor. However, competitors like the Yi 4K+ offer similar specs at a lower price point.

What key features should I look for in an action camera according to the 2017 chart?

The 2017 comparison chart emphasizes features like 4K video capability, waterproof housing, image stabilization, and frame rate options. Battery life and accessory compatibility are also critical for adventure-focused users.

Are budget action cameras worth it based on the 2017 comparison?

Yes—the 2017 action camera comparison shows budget options like the Akaso V50 Pro deliver solid 4K performance and Wi-Fi connectivity at half the price of premium models. Just expect compromises in low-light performance and build quality.

Which 2017 action camera has the best battery life?

The Garmin VIRB Ultra 30 leads in battery life (2+ hours of 4K recording) in the 2017 comparison chart, while most competitors average 70-90 minutes. Consider spare batteries for extended use.

How important is image stabilization in the 2017 action camera comparison?

Image stabilization is a key differentiator in the 2017 chart, with electronic stabilization (EIS) in models like the Hero6 and DJI Osmo Action producing smoother footage. Cameras without EIS show noticeable shake during fast-paced activities.