If you’re serious about vlogging on the go, an action camera is your ultimate sidekick. Whether you’re hiking mountain trails, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, or filming your daily adventures in the city, the right action camera delivers sharp 4K footage, rock-solid stabilization, and vlogger-friendly features like dual screens and intuitive controls. In this guide, we’ve tested and reviewed the best action cameras for vlogging in 2024—balancing image quality, ease of use, durability, and value. From premium picks to budget-friendly gems, these cameras are perfect for creators who want professional results without the bulk.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 5 Best Action Camera For Vlogging Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro Essential Combo Waterproof 4K Action Camera for Vlogging
The DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro Essential Combo is a top-tier choice for vloggers who demand cinematic quality in a compact, rugged package. With its advanced 1/1.3″ sensor and pro-grade night imaging, this camera delivers stunning clarity even in low-light urban environments. It’s built for creators who want reliable performance without extra frills.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 4K video recording with exceptional low-light performance
- ✓ 1/1.3″ large sensor for richer detail and dynamic range
- ✓ Advanced 4nm chip ensures fast subject tracking and smooth autofocus
- ✓ Waterproof up to 18 meters without a housing
- ✓ Dual OLED screens for easy framing and playback
Why We Recommend It
This camera strikes the perfect balance between professional features and user-friendly operation. Whether you’re filming nighttime bike rides or daytime adventures, the Action 5 Pro captures crisp, vibrant footage with minimal setup. DJI’s reputation for reliability makes this a trustworthy companion for daily vlogging.
Best For
Vloggers and outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize image quality, durability, and smart tracking in a streamlined package.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Outstanding low-light performance
- Fast and accurate subject tracking
- Compact and waterproof design
- Long battery life for extended shoots
Cons:
- No included mounting accessories in Essential Combo
- Requires DJI Mimo app (not available on Google Play)
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.”
2. 4K 60FPS Waterproof Action Camera,Bare Metal 66FT Underwater Camera,2″ Touch Dual Screen Sports 6…
This rugged, metal-bodied action camera delivers impressive 4K60FPS video and 64MP photos, making it ideal for fast-paced vlogging and underwater adventures. With dual touchscreens and 6-axis stabilization, it’s built for creators who want studio-quality results in extreme conditions.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 4K60FPS video and 64MP photo capture
- ✓ Dual-screen design: 2.0″ rear touchscreen + 1.5″ front IPS screen
- ✓ 6-axis EIS stabilization for ultra-smooth footage
- ✓ Bare-metal waterproof housing up to 66ft (20m)
- ✓ Includes two rechargeable batteries and multiple mounts
Why We Recommend It
The solid metal build and dual-screen setup make this camera a joy to use for vlogging—especially for selfies and front-facing shots. The stabilization is excellent for biking, skiing, or running, and the included accessories add great value right out of the box.
Best For
Adventure vloggers and sports enthusiasts who need a durable, high-performance camera with reliable stabilization and underwater capability.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent video quality at 4K60FPS
- Sturdy metal construction
- Dual screens for easy vlogging
- Comes with extra battery and mounts
Cons:
- Audio quality is average (not ideal for voice-heavy vlogs)
- Touchscreen can be slow in cold weather
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.”
3. DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro Standard Combo 4K Action Camera with Dual OLED Screens
The DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro Standard Combo offers nearly all the power of the Essential model—plus extra accessories—for vloggers who want more flexibility. With enhanced subject tracking and stunning low-light performance, it’s a reliable workhorse for daily content creation.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 1/1.3″ sensor for superior night and dynamic imaging
- ✓ 4nm chip for fast, accurate subject tracking
- ✓ Dual OLED screens for clear preview and playback
- ✓ Waterproof up to 18 meters
- ✓ Includes extra battery, mount, and protective case
Why We Recommend It
This version gives you more value with included accessories, making it easier to start vlogging right away. The image quality rivals much more expensive cameras, and DJI’s ecosystem ensures smooth app integration and firmware updates.
Best For
Budget-conscious creators who still want premium features like OLED screens, night mode, and reliable stabilization.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent low-light video performance
- Includes useful accessories in the box
- Lightweight and easy to mount
- Long battery life
Cons:
- Heavier than some competitors
- App not available on Google Play (iOS only)
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “So far I love it. I used a GoPro2 many years ago, and the this is so much better. I have used a GoPro Max a little as well since then. Its heavier than I expected but not too heavy. Easy to get up and go. 4K recording is awesome. Lots of excessories available. The battery lasts very long, though I ha”
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”
4. Xtra Muse 4K Vlogging Camera with 1-Inch Sensor and 3-Axis Gimbal Stabilizer
The Xtra Muse stands out with its massive 1-inch CMOS sensor and built-in 3-axis gimbal—rare features in the action camera world. This combo delivers cinematic footage with incredible detail, perfect for vloggers who want DSLR-like quality in a pocket-sized device.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 1-inch CMOS sensor for superior image quality
- ✓ 4K video at 120fps for smooth slow-motion
- ✓ Built-in 3-axis gimbal stabilizer
- ✓ 2-inch touchscreen with vertical/horizontal switching
- ✓ Pocket-sized design ideal for travel vlogging
Why We Recommend It
If you’re tired of shaky footage and want buttery-smooth video without external gimbals, this camera is a game-changer. The large sensor captures rich colors and depth, making your vlogs look professional even in challenging lighting.
Best For
Travel and lifestyle vloggers who prioritize image quality and stabilization over extreme ruggedness.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Cinematic video quality with large sensor
- Built-in gimbal eliminates need for external stabilizers
- Compact and lightweight
- Easy-to-use touchscreen interface
Cons:
- Not fully waterproof (requires housing)
- Battery life shorter than action camera average
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I’m new to vlogging and didn’t want to start with anything too complicated or bulky. I came across the Xtra Muse Vlogging Camera and honestly, it’s been amazing so far! It’s small enough to fit in my pocket, but the video quality doesn’t compromise. The user manual is a one pager, but once you start”
Customer Review: “The media could not be loaded.I recently purchased the Xtra Muse Vlogging Camera from Xtra Edge, and I’ve been really impressed with its overall performance and build quality. This compact pocket camera truly stands out for its 1-inch CMOS sensor and ability to record 4K videos at 120fps, which resu”
5. ODDV 4K Action Camera with Dual Screens, 132FT Waterproof, and EIS Stabilization
The ODDV 4K Action Camera packs impressive value with dual screens, 132ft waterproofing, and solid EIS stabilization—all under $50. It’s a great entry-level option for new vloggers or those who want a backup camera for risky shoots.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 4K60FPS video and 30MP photo capture
- ✓ Dual-screen design: 2.0″ touch rear + 1.4″ front screen
- ✓ Six-axis EIS for smooth, shake-free footage
- ✓ Waterproof up to 132ft (40m) with included housing
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to mount on helmets, bikes, or tripods
Why We Recommend It
For the price, this camera delivers surprisingly good video quality and useful features like dual screens and waterproofing. It’s perfect for beginners or casual creators who want to experiment with vlogging without a big investment.
Best For
Beginner vloggers, students, or travelers looking for an affordable, reliable camera for everyday adventures.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely affordable
- Dual screens for easy vlogging
- Good waterproof rating
- Lightweight and portable
Cons:
- Video quality not as sharp as premium models
- Limited app support and editing features
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”
Complete Buying Guide for Best Action Camera For Vlogging
Essential Factors We Consider
When choosing the best action camera for vlogging, we focus on video quality, stabilization, ease of use, and vlogger-specific features like front-facing screens and audio input. A good vlogging action camera should shoot at least 4K30FPS, offer electronic image stabilization (EIS), and have intuitive controls. Battery life, waterproofing, and mounting options are also key—especially if you’re filming outdoors or underwater.
Budget Planning
Action cameras for vlogging range from under $50 to over $400. Entry-level models like the ODDV offer solid basics, while mid-range options (around $200–$300) like the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro deliver pro features. Premium cameras with large sensors or built-in gimbals (like the Xtra Muse) cost more but provide cinematic results. Consider your content style: if you film in low light or need ultra-smooth footage, invest in better sensors and stabilization.
Final Thoughts
The right action camera can elevate your vlogging game—whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned creator. Prioritize features that match your workflow: dual screens for selfies, waterproofing for adventures, or gimbal stabilization for smooth motion. All five cameras on our list offer excellent value, but the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro remains our top pick for its balance of quality, reliability, and smart features.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What’s the best action camera for vlogging under $100?
A: The ODDV 4K Action Camera is our top budget pick. It offers dual screens, 4K recording, and waterproofing for under $50—perfect for new vloggers or casual use.
Q: Do I need a front screen for vlogging?
A: Yes! A front screen lets you see yourself while filming, ensuring proper framing and eye contact. All cameras on this list except some base models include one.
Q: Can action cameras record good audio?
A: Most built-in mics are average, but some models support external mic input. For voice-heavy vlogs, consider using a lapel mic or recording audio separately.
Q: Are action cameras good for low-light vlogging?
A: It depends. Cameras with larger sensors (like the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro or Xtra Muse) perform much better in dim lighting than smaller-sensor models.
Q: Do I need a gimbal with an action camera?
A: Not if your camera has strong EIS or a built-in gimbal (like the Xtra Muse). However, for ultra-smooth motion, an external gimbal can still help.
Ready to start creating? Pick the camera that fits your style and budget, and hit record with confidence. Don’t forget to check current prices on Amazon—deals change fast, and your perfect vlogging companion might be just a click away!
