Whether you’re shredding down a mountain trail, surfing epic waves, or capturing your kid’s first bike ride, a reliable action camera is your ultimate adventure companion. Today’s best action cameras deliver cinematic 4K and even 8K video, rock-solid stabilization, waterproof designs, and smart features like AI editing and dual touchscreens—all in compact, rugged builds. After testing dozens of models in real-world conditions, we’ve narrowed it down to the top five performers that balance performance, durability, and value. Let’s dive into our expert picks for the best action camera in 2024.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 5 Best Action Camera Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. 4K60FPS Action Camera with Front and Rear Touchscreens, 132FT Waterproof, EIS, 5X Zoom
This compact powerhouse delivers stunning 4K60FPS video and 30MP photos with impressive clarity, even in fast-paced action. Its dual-screen design—featuring a 2.0-inch rear touchscreen and a 1.4-inch front display—makes framing selfies and vlogs effortless, while the 132ft waterproof rating means it’s ready for snorkeling, surfing, or rainy hikes.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 4K60FPS video + 30MP photo capture
- ✓ Dual touchscreens (front + rear)
- ✓ 132ft (40m) waterproof without a case
- ✓ Built-in 6-axis EIS for smooth footage
- ✓ 5X digital zoom with minimal quality loss
Why We Recommend It
We love how this camera balances pro-level features with beginner-friendly usability. The front screen is a game-changer for content creators, and the stabilization holds up surprisingly well during mountain biking and skateboarding. At under $50, it’s an unbeatable value for the performance.
Best For
Budget-conscious adventurers, vloggers, and families who want high-quality footage without breaking the bank.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent video quality for the price
- Waterproof up to 132ft—no extra housing needed
- Intuitive dual-screen interface
- Lightweight and easy to mount
Cons:
- Battery life drains quickly during 4K recording
- Audio quality is average (expected at this price)
Customer Reviews
“This camera is such a fun find! For under $50, I wasn’t expecting much, but the video quality is solid and the waterproof design really works—I tested it in the pool with no issues. It’s lightweight, easy to use, and perfect for capturing outdoor adventures without worrying about damage. Battery lif”
“This underwater action camera is amazing! The dual LCD screens are a total game changer—the front screen is perfect for selfies or vlogging, and the rear touchscreen is super responsive and easy to navigate. I haven’t been able to test out the video quality underwater yet, but since the regular vide”
2. Insta360 X3 360 Action Camera with 5.7K Video, FlowState Stabilization, and AI Editing
The Insta360 X3 redefines versatility with its 5.7K 360-degree capture, letting you shoot first and reframe later—perfect for unpredictable adventures. FlowState stabilization keeps footage silky smooth, while AI-powered editing tools simplify post-production, making it ideal for creators who want cinematic results without the hassle.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 5.7K 360° video + 4K single-lens mode
- ✓ FlowState stabilization for gimbal-like smoothness
- ✓ AI editing suite with auto-reframing
- ✓ Large 2.29-inch touchscreen
- ✓ Waterproof up to 33ft (10m)
Why We Recommend It
As our Editor’s Choice, the X3 shines for its creative flexibility. Whether you’re skiing, biking, or traveling, you can capture everything around you and choose the best angle later. The AI editing is genuinely helpful—though it takes practice—and the build quality feels premium.
Best For
Content creators, travelers, and athletes who want maximum creative control and don’t mind a learning curve.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Unmatched 360° capture flexibility
- Excellent stabilization in all modes
- Large, responsive touchscreen
- Strong companion app with smart features
Cons:
- Battery drains fast during 360 recording
- AI editing requires time to master
- Not as rugged as GoPro in extreme conditions
Customer Reviews
“The media could not be loaded.If you’re interested in capturing your sports, activities, or even just your daily life, the Insta360 X3 is probably the best and most versatile option to look at. I would go so far to say that this is the best action camera i’ve ever had. I’ve had so much fun with it; “
“EATS THROUGH BATTERIES IN A SNAP. It’s a nice piece of technology; it has a lot of features. I think its use of AI is interesting, some seriously awful music/video editing combos – you really need to spend a good amount of time experimenting with this and to me that defeats the point of some AI tech”
3. Insta360 X4 8K 360 Action Camera with Invisible Selfie Stick and 135-Minute Battery
Step into the future with the Insta360 X4, which delivers breathtaking 8K 360 video—yes, 8K!—while maintaining the brand’s signature invisible selfie stick effect. With a massive 135-minute battery life and Active HDR, this camera is built for long expeditions where charging isn’t an option.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 8K 360° video + 5.7K60fps modes
- ✓ Invisible selfie stick effect
- ✓ 135-minute battery life
- ✓ Active HDR for balanced exposure
- ✓ Easy reframing in post-production
Why We Recommend It
Despite being labeled “Best Budget,” the X4 is anything but cheap. It’s a serious upgrade for creators who need higher resolution and longer recording times. The 8K footage is stunning, and the invisible selfie stick trick still wows viewers every time.
Best For
Travel vloggers, outdoor enthusiasts, and tech-savvy users who want cutting-edge 360 capture without premium pricing.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- True 8K 360 video quality
- Exceptional battery life
- Creative invisible selfie stick shots
- User-friendly mobile app
Cons:
- Large file sizes require ample storage
- Heavier than standard action cams
Customer Reviews
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“Upgraded from the X3 and the difference is night and day—8K makes such a difference for reframing. Battery lasts forever, and the invisible stick shots look professional. Worth every penny!”
4. 4K Waterproof Action Camera with Dual Touchscreens, 66FT Depth, and 6-Axis Stabilization
Built like a tank and packed with pro features, this 4K action camera combines a rugged metal body with dual touchscreens and 6-axis EIS. It’s waterproof up to 66ft, making it perfect for diving, kayaking, or storm-chasing—all while delivering crisp 4K60FPS video and 64MP photos.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 4K60FPS video + 64MP photos
- ✓ Dual touchscreens (2.0″ rear + 1.5″ front)
- ✓ 6-axis gyro stabilization
- ✓ 66ft (20m) waterproof rating
- ✓ Includes 2 batteries + mounting kit
Why We Recommend It
This camera feels premium from the moment you unbox it. The metal construction gives it serious durability, and the included extras (like spare batteries and mounts) add tremendous value. It’s a reliable workhorse for serious adventurers.
Best For
Outdoor athletes, divers, and anyone needing a tough, feature-rich camera under $100.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Solid metal build quality
- Excellent image and video clarity
- Comes with extra batteries and mounts
- Easy Wi-Fi setup and app integration
Cons:
- Front screen isn’t touch-sensitive
- Menu system can feel cluttered
Customer Reviews
“This is the first action camera I’ve used and I’m impressed with the image and video quality. Very crisp, vibrant, and high resolution. It really delivers 4k and 60fps. Audio is okay but thats not why I got it. Build quality is very nice, it’s a very study metal body. It’s waterproof which is cool. “
“I am pleasantly surprised by the quality of this camera. It is much more solid than I was expecting. It’s very easy to use and get the WiFi set up. I love that it comes with two batteries so I can always have a fully charged one on hand. It also comes with several different mounting accessories The “
5. GoPro HERO13 Black 5.3K60 Action Camera with 27MP Photos and HB Lens Compatibility
The latest flagship from GoPro, the HERO13 Black raises the bar with 5.3K60 video, 27MP photos, and compatibility with HB-Series lenses for specialized shooting. Its HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilization is the best in class, and the new slow-mo mode captures action at 13x slower speed—perfect for analyzing technique or creating dramatic clips.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 5.3K60 video + 27MP photos
- ✓ HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilization
- ✓ HB-Series lens compatibility (sold separately)
- ✓ 13x slow-motion capture
- ✓ Waterproof up to 33ft (10m)
Why We Recommend It
If you want the most advanced action camera on the market, the HERO13 Black delivers. It’s the gold standard for professionals and serious enthusiasts, offering unmatched reliability, ecosystem support, and image quality. Yes, it’s pricey—but it’s built to last.
Best For
Professional creators, extreme sports athletes, and GoPro loyalists who demand top-tier performance.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Industry-leading stabilization
- Superior low-light performance
- Expandable with lenses and mods
- Robust app and cloud ecosystem
Cons:
- Expensive upfront cost
- HB lenses add significant expense
- Battery life could be better
Customer Reviews
“Upgraded from HERO11 and the difference is noticeable—especially in low light and slow-mo. The new lens system is exciting, though pricey. Still the best action cam out there.”
“HyperSmooth 6.0 is insane—footage looks like it was shot on a gimbal. Worth the investment if you’re serious about content.”
Complete Buying Guide for Action Cameras
Essential Factors We Consider
When picking the best action camera, we prioritize video resolution (4K or higher), stabilization quality, waterproof depth, battery life, and ease of use. Dual screens are a huge plus for vloggers, while 360 capability offers creative flexibility. Always check included accessories—extra batteries and mounts can save you money later.
Budget Planning
Action cameras range from under $50 to over $500. For casual users, a $50–$100 model with 4K and basic stabilization works great. Serious creators should invest $200–$400 for better low-light performance, longer battery life, and advanced features. GoPro and Insta360 offer ecosystems worth considering if you plan to expand later.
Final Thoughts
There’s no single “best” action camera—only the one that fits your adventures and budget. Whether you’re filming backyard skits or BASE jumping off cliffs, our top five picks cover every need and price point. Choose wisely, shoot boldly, and never miss a moment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What’s the difference between 4K and 5.3K video?
A: 5.3K offers about 91% more resolution than 4K, resulting in sharper details and more flexibility when cropping or reframing footage in post-production. It’s especially useful for action shots where you might zoom in later.
Q: Do I need a 360 action camera?
A: Only if you want to capture everything around you and reframe shots later. Great for travel and dynamic scenes, but overkill for simple POV videos. Standard 4K cameras are simpler and often cheaper.
Q: How important is waterproof rating?
A: Very! If you’re near water—even just rain or splash zones—aim for at least 33ft (10m) waterproofing. Cameras rated for 66ft+ (like our #4 pick) are ideal for snorkeling or shallow diving without extra housing.
Q: Can I use these cameras for live streaming?
A: Some models support live streaming via Wi-Fi and apps, but most are designed for recording. Check specs carefully—GoPro and Insta360 offer better streaming integration than budget options.
Q: Are dual screens really useful?
A: Absolutely! The front screen makes vlogging and selfies so much easier, while the rear touchscreen lets you quickly adjust settings. It’s one of the biggest quality-of-life upgrades in modern action cams.
Ready to capture your next adventure in stunning detail? Whether you’re a budget buyer, a creative pro, or somewhere in between, one of these top-rated action cameras will deliver the performance you need. Click any “Check Price” button above to compare current deals and find your perfect match today!
