When it comes to capturing high-quality footage in low-light conditions, not all action cameras are created equal. Whether you’re filming nighttime mountain biking adventures, underwater dives at dusk, or vlogging under city lights, having a camera with strong night shooting capabilities is essential. The best action camera for night shooting combines a large sensor, advanced image stabilization, high ISO performance, and smart software processing to deliver clear, vibrant, and stable video—even when the sun goes down. In this roundup, we’ve tested and reviewed the top performers that excel in low-light environments without breaking the bank.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 5 Best Action Camera For Night Shooting Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. 4K Action Camera with Front LCD and Touchscreen for Night and Underwater Shooting
This action camera delivers impressive performance in low-light settings, thanks to its large sensor and dual-screen design. Whether you’re filming nighttime adventures or underwater scenes, it captures sharp 4K video and detailed 30MP photos with minimal noise.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 4K60FPS video recording with crystal-clear detail
✓ Dual-screen setup: 2.0″ rear touchscreen + 1.4″ front LCD for easy framing
✓ Built-in six-axis EIS for smooth, shake-free footage
✓ Waterproof up to 66ft without a housing case
✓ Night shooting mode enhances low-light clarity
Why We Recommend It
We love how intuitive and reliable this camera is—especially for beginners. The front screen makes vlogging a breeze, and the stabilization holds up surprisingly well during fast-paced night rides. It’s also one of the few budget-friendly options that doesn’t sacrifice night performance.
Best For
Nighttime outdoor enthusiasts, underwater explorers, and content creators who want dual-screen convenience without spending hundreds.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value under $50
- Solid build quality and waterproof design
- Easy-to-use touchscreen interface
- Reliable battery life for casual use
Cons:
- Audio quality is average
- No advanced manual controls
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 with 1/1.3″ Sensor and 4K Video for Night and Sports
DJI’s latest flagship action camera raises the bar for night shooting with its massive 1/1.3″ sensor and pro-grade image processing. Designed for serious creators, it captures stunningly clean footage even in near-darkness.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 1/1.3″ sensor for superior low-light sensitivity
✓ 4K/120fps video with HDR support
✓ Advanced 4nm chip for real-time subject tracking
✓ Dual native ISO for reduced noise in dark scenes
✓ RockSteady 3.0 stabilization for ultra-smooth results
Why We Recommend It
If you’re serious about nighttime action footage, this is the gold standard. The larger sensor collects more light, and DJI’s software intelligently balances exposure and color. We tested it during a moonlit trail run—footage looked crisp with natural colors and minimal grain.
Best For
Professional creators, athletes, and filmmakers who demand top-tier night performance and reliability.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Best-in-class low-light performance
- Excellent dynamic range and color accuracy
- Fast autofocus and subject tracking
- Durable, weather-sealed build
Cons:
- Higher price point
- Battery life could be longer for all-day shoots
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Upgraded from the Action 4, and the night mode is noticeably better. The larger sensor really makes a difference—less noise, more detail. Perfect for night skiing and evening hikes.”
Customer Review: “Worth every penny if you shoot in low light often. The stabilization is insane, and the front screen is great for framing selfies in dim lighting.”
3. Xtra Pro 4K Action Camera with Night View and Stabilization for Outdoor Activities
Don’t let the price fool you—this Xtra Pro model punches above its weight with a big 1/1.3″ sensor and dedicated Night View Mode. It’s built for adventurers who want reliable night performance without overspending.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Large 1/1.3″ sensor for improved light capture
✓ Night View Mode brightens low-light scenes naturally
✓ 4K/60fps video with electronic image stabilization
✓ Waterproof up to 66ft with included case
✓ Includes two rechargeable batteries
Why We Recommend It
We were genuinely surprised by how well this camera handles darkness. The Night View Mode doesn’t over-brighten or wash out colors—it just makes things visible. Great for campfire videos, evening bike rides, or underwater twilight dives.
Best For
Budget-conscious travelers, weekend warriors, and casual creators who need solid night performance.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value for under $80
- Large sensor rivals premium models
- Comes with extra battery and mounts
- Easy setup and user-friendly interface
Cons:
- App connectivity can be slow
- No front-facing screen
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I bought this camera for myself as a birthday gift because it was on promotion, and honestly, I didn’t expect too much at first. But it turned out way better than I thought. I brought it with me to Hawaii for snorkeling, and the video quality really surprised me. The underwater footage came out supe”
Customer Review: “I recently got the Xtra Action Camera, and honestly, it’s been a blast to use. Right out of the box, it feels solid and well-made, and it’s not overly complicated to set up, which I really appreciated. The 1/1.3” sensor is definitely a standout feature—it captures photos and videos with great clarit”
4. 4K 60FPS Waterproof Action Camera,Bare Metal 66FT Underwater Camera,2″ Touch Dual Screen Sports 6…
Built like a tank with a full metal body, this camera delivers cinematic 4K footage and handles low-light conditions better than most mid-range competitors. Its dual-screen design and 6-axis stabilization make it ideal for dynamic night shoots.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Rugged bare-metal waterproof housing (66ft depth)
✓ 2.0″ rear touchscreen + 1.5″ front IPS display
✓ 6-axis gyro stabilization for ultra-smooth video
✓ 4K/60fps recording with 64MP photo capability
✓ Includes dual batteries and mounting kit
Why We Recommend It
The build quality alone sets this apart—it feels premium and durable. We dropped it during a night trail run (accidentally!), and it kept working perfectly. Night footage was clean with minimal grain, and the stabilization made handheld shots look like they were on a gimbal.
Best For
Extreme sports enthusiasts, night explorers, and users who want a tough, reliable camera with dual-screen convenience.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent build quality and durability
- Dual screens enhance usability
- Great stabilization and video clarity
- Comes with extra battery and accessories
Cons:
- Heavier than plastic alternatives
- Menu system takes time to learn
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 “
5. 4K Thumb Action Camera | 128G Sports Camera for POV Photoshooting: Waterproof Sports Camera The S…
Ultra-compact and lightweight, this thumb-sized camera is perfect for POV night shooting. With built-in night mode and magnetic mounting, it’s ideal for hands-free adventures in low light.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Weighs only 1.27oz—easy to mount anywhere
✓ Magnetic back + lanyard for secure POV attachment
✓ 4K video with night shooting enhancement
✓ Waterproof up to 131ft with included case
✓ 128GB internal storage—no memory card needed
Why We Recommend It
For hands-free night recording—like helmet cams or chest mounts—this tiny powerhouse is unbeatable. We clipped it to a bike helmet during an evening ride, and the footage was surprisingly stable and clear. The night mode brightened shadows without overexposing streetlights.
Best For
POV creators, cyclists, skaters, and anyone needing a discreet, wearable night camera.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight and portable
- No need for external memory card
- Strong magnetic mount stays secure
- Great for tight spaces and unique angles
Cons:
- No viewfinder or screen
- Limited manual controls
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Perfect for my night bike rides! The magnetic mount sticks firmly to my helmet, and the 4K footage looks sharp even in dim street lighting. Love that it has built-in storage.”
Customer Review: “Tiny but mighty! I use it for skateboarding at dusk, and it captures smooth video with decent color. Wish it had a screen, but for the size, it’s impressive.”
Complete Buying Guide for Best Action Camera For Night Shooting
Essential Factors We Consider
When evaluating the best action camera for night shooting, we focus on sensor size, low-light performance, image stabilization, and ease of use. A larger sensor (like 1/1.3″) captures more light, reducing noise in dark scenes. Look for cameras with dedicated night modes, high ISO ranges, and strong EIS to keep footage smooth. Dual screens, waterproofing, and battery life also matter depending on your use case.
Budget Planning
You don’t need to spend $300+ to get great night footage. Budget options under $80 (like the Xtra Pro) offer solid performance, while mid-range models ($100–$200) add better stabilization and sensors. Premium cameras (like the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro) are worth it if you shoot professionally or in extreme conditions.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re filming nighttime adventures, underwater dives, or POV content, the right action camera can make all the difference. Our top picks balance performance, durability, and value—so you can focus on capturing the moment, not fighting your gear.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What makes a good action camera for night shooting?
A: A large sensor, high ISO capability, effective image stabilization, and dedicated night mode are key. These features help reduce noise, improve brightness, and keep footage smooth in low light.
Q: Can budget action cameras record good night footage?
A: Yes! Models like the Xtra Pro use larger sensors and smart software to deliver impressive low-light performance at under $80. While they may lack pro features, they’re great for casual and outdoor use.
Q: Do I need a front screen for night vlogging?
A: It’s highly recommended. A front screen lets you frame yourself properly in dim lighting, which is especially helpful when adjusting exposure or positioning in dark environments.
Q: Are waterproof action cameras good for night underwater shooting?
A: Absolutely—if they have strong low-light performance. Look for models with night modes and good stabilization, like the 4K Action Camera with Front LCD or the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro.
Q: How important is image stabilization for night filming?
A: Very important. In low light, cameras use slower shutter speeds, making shakes more noticeable. Strong EIS (like 6-axis stabilization) keeps your footage smooth even when handheld or mounted on moving gear.
Ready to capture stunning night footage? Click any “Check Price” button above to find the best action camera for your adventures—whether you’re on a tight budget or ready to invest in pro-grade gear. Don’t let the dark stop your story.
