Looking for the best action camera for 100 dollars or less? You’re in the right place. Whether you’re capturing mountain bike trails, snorkeling adventures, or family vacations, a high-quality action camera under $100 can deliver impressive 4K video, rugged waterproofing, and smart features like dual screens and electronic stabilization—without breaking the bank. We’ve tested and compared the top models on the market to bring you a curated list of reliable, feature-packed cameras that punch well above their price tag.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 10 Best Action Camera For 100 Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Best 4K Action Camera Under $100 with Dual Screens and Waterproof Design
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 life could be better, but for the price, it’s hard to beat.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 4K60FPS video and 30MP photo capture
✓ Dual-screen design with 2.0″ touch rear and 1.4″ front display
✓ Built-in six-axis EIS for smooth, shake-free footage
✓ Fully waterproof up to 66ft without a case
✓ Compact and lightweight for easy mounting
Why We Recommend It
This camera delivers premium features at a budget-friendly price. The dual screens make framing shots and selfies effortless, while the stabilization ensures smooth footage even on bumpy trails. It’s ideal for beginners and casual adventurers who want great quality without the GoPro price tag.
Best For
Travel vloggers, swimmers, hikers, and families looking for an affordable yet reliable action camera.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Crisp 4K video at 60fps
- Dual LCD screens for easy control
- Waterproof without needing an extra case
- Excellent value under $100
Cons:
- Battery life is average (about 90 minutes)
- No built-in GPS
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. It’s lightweight, easy to use, and perfect for capturing outdoor adventures without worrying about damage. Battery lif”
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 and easy to navigate. I haven’t been able to test out the video quality underwater yet, but since the regular vide”
2. DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro: 4K Action Camera with Dual OLED Screens and Stabilization
This is a fantastic and amazing camera! It has a lot of different options in terms of filming, 1080 to 2k, all the way to 4k – all with two types of ratio, 16:9 or 3:4 I believe. Different options will yield different maximum duration of recording (and data size), but great that it comes with intern
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Large 1/1.3″ sensor for superior low-light performance
✓ Dual OLED screens with bright, vivid displays
✓ Advanced 4nm chip for fast autofocus and tracking
✓ 4K video with RockSteady stabilization
✓ Up to 150 minutes of battery life
Why We Recommend It
DJI continues to raise the bar with the Action 5 Pro. The image quality rivals cameras twice its price, especially in dim lighting. The dual OLED screens are bright and responsive, and the stabilization keeps footage buttery smooth—even during intense mountain biking.
Best For
Serious content creators, outdoor athletes, and travelers who want pro-level quality in a compact package.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Outstanding low-light performance
- Crisp OLED dual screens
- Excellent battery life
- Reliable stabilization
Cons:
- Higher price point (often over $100 on sale)
- Limited mounting accessories in base combo
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This is a fantastic and amazing camera! It has a lot of different options in terms of filming, 1080 to 2k, all the way to 4k – all with two types of ratio, 16:9 or 3:4 I believe. Different options will yield different maximum duration of recording (and data size), but great that it comes with intern”
Customer Review: “DJI Osmo Action 5 is small enough to fit into the palm of my hand. Yet the sensor is 1/1.3″ – which is almost equal to 1” sensors like some of the high-end cameras now-a-day. In short, the bigger the sensor the better the pictures and videos. It also performs much better in low light condition. “
3. 4K 60FPS Waterproof Action Camera,Bare Metal 66FT Underwater Camera,2″ Touch Dual Screen Sports 6…
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.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ True 4K60FPS video and 64MP photos
✓ Dual-screen design with 2.0″ touch and 1.5″ front display
✓ 6-axis gyro stabilization for smooth footage
✓ Bare-metal waterproof construction up to 66ft
✓ Includes two rechargeable batteries
Why We Recommend It
This camera punches way above its weight. The metal body feels premium, the video is sharp, and the dual screens make operation intuitive. It’s perfect for anyone who wants a durable, no-nonsense action cam without spending a fortune.
Best For
Budget-conscious adventurers, divers, and cyclists who want solid performance and build quality.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent 4K video quality
- Sturdy metal construction
- Comes with extra battery
- Great value under $100
Cons:
- Audio quality is average
- Wi-Fi setup can be finicky
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “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. “
Customer Review: “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 “
4. DJI Osmo Action 4: 4K Action Camera with Low-Light Imaging and Long Battery Life
I absolutely love the DJI Osmo Action 4 Adventure Combo! The video quality is stunning with 4K/120fps, and the 1/1.3-inch sensor captures incredible detail even in low light. It’s waterproof, rugged, and perfect for outdoor adventures. Setup and operation are very user-friendly, making it great for
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Large 1/1.3″ sensor for enhanced low-light clarity
✓ 4K/120fps video with 10-bit color depth
✓ D-Log M color profile for professional editing
✓ Up to 150 minutes of recording time
✓ Waterproof up to 66ft
Why We Recommend It
The Action 4 is a powerhouse for its size. It handles low-light environments better than most competitors, and the battery life is impressive. Whether you’re filming at dawn or deep in the forest, this camera delivers consistent, high-quality results.
Best For
Outdoor enthusiasts, night photographers, and travelers who need reliable performance in all conditions.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent low-light performance
- Long battery life
- Professional-grade color profiles
- Rugged and waterproof
Cons:
- Requires separate SD card
- Bulkier than mini alternatives
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I absolutely love the DJI Osmo Action 4 Adventure Combo! The video quality is stunning with 4K/120fps, and the 1/1.3-inch sensor captures incredible detail even in low light. It’s waterproof, rugged, and perfect for outdoor adventures. Setup and operation are very user-friendly, making it great for “
Customer Review: “This camera has great quality and great footage. It doesn’t come with an SD card so be prepared to get one. I use this for four wheeling and the footage was clean and I was very easy to use. It held up very well with the mud and bumps. The camera itself it’s relatively light weight so if you want to”
5. DJI Osmo 360: 8K 360° Action Camera with Built-in Storage and Waterproof Housing
The media could not be loaded.I live in a caribean island and i go snorkeling a Lot and I have always been tempted to acquire an action camera but it’s always been a bit out of My budget But this one is great Quality for a decent price with all it’s gadgets and an extra battery, beware i bought the
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 8K 360° video capture
✓ Built-in 105GB storage (no SD card needed)
✓ 1.2m invisible selfie stick effect
✓ Waterproof housing included
✓ 1-inch sensor for sharp, detailed footage
Why We Recommend It
If you want to capture everything around you, the Osmo 360 is unmatched. The 8K resolution ensures future-proof footage, and the built-in storage is a game-changer for travel. It’s perfect for capturing immersive adventures where every angle matters.
Best For
Travel vloggers, extreme sports athletes, and creatives who want 360° storytelling capabilities.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- True 8K 360° video
- No need for external storage
- Includes waterproof case
- Unique invisible selfie stick feature
Cons:
- Steeper learning curve for editing
- Higher price point
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “The media could not be loaded.I live in a caribean island and i go snorkeling a Lot and I have always been tempted to acquire an action camera but it’s always been a bit out of My budget But this one is great Quality for a decent price with all it’s gadgets and an extra battery, beware i bought the “
Customer Review: “Not to heavy, so easy to use. I can mount on my Harley and the image comes out great, battery life is great too.”
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