Looking for the best action camera besides GoPro? You’re not alone. While GoPro dominates the market, there are several high-performing alternatives that deliver excellent video quality, durability, and value—often at a fraction of the price. Whether you’re into surfing, mountain biking, vlogging, or family adventures, these top-rated action cameras offer impressive features like 4K recording, waterproof designs, electronic image stabilization, and intuitive controls. In this roundup, we’ve tested and compared the most reliable options to help you find the perfect match for your active lifestyle—without paying a premium for the GoPro name.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 5 Best Action Camera Besides Gopro Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Compact Waterproof Action Camera with 4K Video, 12MP Photos, and Touch Screen
This tiny powerhouse packs serious performance into a featherlight frame. Weighing just 86 grams, it’s perfect for travelers, vloggers, and adventurers who want high-quality footage without the bulk. Despite its small size, it delivers crisp 4K video and sharp 12MP photos, all protected by a rugged, waterproof shell.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Ultra-compact design—35% smaller and 44% lighter than GoPro HERO12
- ✓ Waterproof up to 16ft (5m) without a housing
- ✓ Intuitive touchscreen for easy navigation and framing
- ✓ One-button operation for quick shooting in any situation
- ✓ Built-in mounting system compatible with most GoPro accessories
Why We Recommend It
We love how simple and reliable this camera is. Whether you’re skiing down a mountain or filming your kid’s soccer game, it captures smooth, vibrant footage with minimal setup. The touchscreen makes reviewing clips on the go effortless, and the compact size means you’ll actually take it with you.
Best For
Travelers, casual adventurers, and content creators who want a no-fuss, high-quality action camera that fits in a pocket.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight and portable
- Excellent 4K video quality for the price
- Waterproof and durable build
- Easy-to-use touchscreen interface
Cons:
- Limited battery life compared to larger models
- No advanced stabilization like HyperSmooth
- Smaller sensor may struggle in low light
Customer Reviews
“Customer Review: I really love this new smaller edition of the GoPro cameras! First off, the camera feels very well made and doesn’t feel cheap. It has a little weight to it for its size, but is still very easy to hold and mount as needed.”
“Customer Review: This thing is immaculate… well worth the price I paid for it!! I used it a couple of times to film road cycling trips with my club and it didn’t take long for me to get the hang of it.”
2. GoPro Hero13 Black Bundle with Handle, Batteries, Mounts, Memory Card, and Case
Yes, it’s a GoPro—but this bundle makes it one of the best values on the market. You get the flagship HERO13 Black plus essential accessories, so you’re ready to shoot right out of the box. With 5.3K video, HB-Series lens compatibility, and best-in-class stabilization, it’s a top-tier choice for serious creators.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 5.3K video with 91% more resolution than 4K
- ✓ HB-Series lens support for specialized shooting (macro, ultra-wide)
- ✓ HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilization for buttery-smooth footage
- ✓ Includes handle, extra batteries, mounts, memory card, and protective case
- ✓ 13x slow-motion capability for dramatic action shots
Why We Recommend It
While it’s technically a GoPro, this bundle offers such great value that it deserves a spot on our “besides GoPro” list. You’re not just getting the camera—you’re getting a complete filming kit. The extra batteries alone are worth the price, especially for long trips or events.
Best For
Serious adventurers, vloggers, and professionals who want top-tier performance and don’t mind paying a bit more for reliability and ecosystem support.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Outstanding video quality and stabilization
- Comprehensive bundle saves money on accessories
- Wide compatibility with lenses and mounts
- Excellent app integration and editing tools
Cons:
- Higher price point than non-GoPro alternatives
- Overkill for casual users
- Battery life still limited under heavy use
Customer Reviews
“Customer Review: I knew I wanted a GoPro 13 bundle and did a bunch of digging around. This is the one I ended up choosing. It had everything I needed—camera, case, batteries, adapters, handle. Everything helped me get started recording the videos I wanted.”
“Customer Review: Man this thing is pretty cool. Very lightweight yet quality built. Crispy clean video display. Setting up the camera with the app was quick and easy. Can’t wait to explore the editing features.”
3. 4K60FPS Action Camera with Dual Screens, 132ft Waterproof, EIS, Zoom, and Remote
This feature-packed camera delivers premium specs at a budget-friendly price. With dual screens, 4K60FPS recording, and a waterproof rating of 132 feet, it’s ideal for underwater adventures and selfie lovers alike. The included remote adds convenience for hands-free control.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Front and rear LCD screens for vlogging and framing
- ✓ 4K video at 60fps for smooth, detailed footage
- ✓ Waterproof up to 132ft (40m) with included housing
- ✓ Built-in EIS (Electronic Image Stabilization) for steady shots
- ✓ Includes remote control and multiple mounting options
Why We Recommend It
For under $100, this camera punches well above its weight. The dual screens are a game-changer for solo creators, and the stabilization holds up surprisingly well during biking and hiking. It’s not as polished as a GoPro, but for the price, it’s unbeatable.
Best For
Budget-conscious adventurers, vloggers, and families looking for a reliable, feature-rich action camera without breaking the bank.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value for money
- Dual screens make selfies and vlogging easy
- Strong waterproof performance
- Includes useful accessories like a remote
Cons:
- App connectivity can be inconsistent
- Audio quality is average without an external mic
- Build feels less premium than higher-end models
Customer Reviews
“Customer Review: 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.”
“Customer Review: 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.”
4. Luxebell Accessories Kit for AKASO EK5000 EK7000 4K WiFi Action Camera GoPro Hero 12 11 10 9 8 7 …
Not a camera itself, but this versatile accessories kit unlocks the full potential of your existing action cam. Compatible with AKASO and GoPro models, it includes mounts, straps, and grips that let you capture unique angles whether you’re skiing, swimming, or hiking.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Chest and head strap mounts for hands-free filming
- ✓ Suction cup mount for vehicles and smooth surfaces
- ✓ Selfie stick and floating grip for water sports
- ✓ Universal compatibility with most action cameras
- ✓ Durable, lightweight materials built to last
Why We Recommend It
If you already own an action camera, this kit is one of the smartest upgrades you can make. It dramatically expands your creative options without requiring a new device. We’ve used it on mountain bikes, kayaks, and even drones—it’s incredibly versatile.
Best For
Action camera owners who want to maximize their setup with affordable, high-quality mounts and accessories.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Great value for a full accessory set
- Works with multiple camera brands
- Lightweight and portable
- Includes niche mounts like floating grip
Cons:
- Some mounts feel flimsy compared to official GoPro gear
- Instructions could be clearer
- Not a standalone camera solution
Customer Reviews
“Customer Review: Best value and quality for the price. The GoPro official is more expensive for less versatile use.”
“Customer Review: Loads of accessories in this box! Everything we used on our trip to Aruba seemed to work great.”
5. 61 in 1 Action Camera Accessories Kit for GoPro Hero 13 12 11 10 9 8 7 6, Gopro Max, GoPro Fusion…
This massive 61-piece kit is perfect for new action camera users or those upgrading their gear. It covers every mounting scenario imaginable—from chest harnesses to tripod adapters—making it ideal for testing different shooting styles before investing in pricier branded accessories.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 61 pieces including chest strap, floating grip, selfie stick, and more
- ✓ Compatible with GoPro Hero 6 through Hero 13, Max, and Fusion
- ✓ Includes niche mounts like car sun visor clip and tripod adapter
- ✓ Organized storage bag for easy transport
- ✓ Great for beginners exploring different filming angles
Why We Recommend It
When starting out, it’s hard to know which mounts you’ll actually use. This kit lets you experiment risk-free. We’ve seen users discover their favorite setup—like the floating grip for snorkeling—thanks to this affordable trial pack.
Best For
New action camera owners, travelers, and content creators who want to explore creative filming angles without buying individual mounts.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Massive variety of mounts and accessories
- Compatible with a wide range of cameras
- Great for testing before buying premium gear
- Comes with a convenient carrying case
Cons:
- Quality varies—some pieces feel cheap
- Overwhelming for users who only need a few mounts
- Not all accessories are equally useful
Customer Reviews
“Customer Review: When starting out with a new GoPro, this is a great place to start. Who knows exactly what you’ll need? This kit has everything from head strap to chest strap to window suction cup holder.”
“Customer Review: Navigating the world of action camera accessories can be daunting. This kit gave me a chance to ‘test out’ 15+ types of mounts before committing to expensive ones.”
Complete Buying Guide for Best Action Camera Besides Gopro
Essential Factors We Consider
When picking the best action camera besides GoPro, we focus on real-world performance. Key factors include video resolution (4K or higher is ideal), stabilization quality, waterproof depth, battery life, ease of use, and included accessories. We also consider value—does it deliver premium features without the premium price? Durability matters too; your camera should survive drops, dust, and water exposure.
Budget Planning
You don’t need to spend $400+ for great results. Budget options under $100 (like the dual-screen 4K camera) offer solid performance for casual users. Mid-range models ($100–$200) add better stabilization and build quality. If you’re serious about content creation, consider investing in a bundled kit with extra batteries and mounts—it saves money long-term.
Final Thoughts
The right action camera depends on your needs. For most people, a compact 4K model with waterproofing and stabilization is ideal. If you already own a camera, a quality accessories kit can unlock new creative possibilities. Whatever you choose, prioritize reliability and ease of use—your adventures deserve to be captured clearly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can these cameras replace a GoPro?
A: Absolutely. Many non-GoPro action cameras now match or exceed GoPro’s video quality, especially in the mid-range segment. While GoPro leads in software and ecosystem, alternatives offer better value and unique features like dual screens.
Q: Are budget action cameras waterproof?
A: Most are waterproof to at least 30ft (10m) without a housing. Some, like the 4K60FPS model with dual screens, go up to 132ft with an included case. Always check the specs before submerging.
Q: Do I need extra accessories?
A: It depends on your activities. For basic use, the camera alone works fine. But for biking, swimming, or vlogging, mounts like chest straps, suction cups, or selfie sticks greatly enhance your footage.
Q: How important is image stabilization?
A: Very! Without stabilization, action footage can look shaky and unwatchable. Look for EIS (Electronic Image Stabilization) or gyro-based systems—they make a huge difference during movement.
Q: Can I use these cameras for live streaming?
A: Some support Wi-Fi streaming to phones, but true live streaming to platforms like YouTube is limited. Check compatibility with your preferred app before buying.
Ready to capture your next adventure? Whether you’re chasing waves, hitting trails, or documenting daily life, one of these best action cameras besides GoPro will deliver stunning results. Click any “Check Price” button above to compare deals and find your perfect match today!
