Best Action Camera That Can Shoot in 24 fps for Smooth Footage

The GoPro Hero12 Black stands out as the best action camera that can shoot in 24 fps, delivering buttery-smooth, cinematic footage ideal for fast-paced adventures and professional-grade content. With advanced stabilization, superior low-light performance, and seamless 24 fps recording across multiple resolutions, it sets the benchmark for action cameras built for creative control and dynamic motion.

Key Takeaways

• Choose 24 fps for cinematic flow: Ideal for smooth, film-like action sequences.
• Prioritize image stabilization: Ensures steady footage even in high-motion scenarios.
• Look for 4K resolution: Delivers sharp, detailed videos at 24 fps.
• Check low-light performance: Crucial for consistent quality in varied lighting.
• Opt for durable, waterproof builds: Essential for rugged outdoor adventures.
• Verify frame rate options: Ensure 24 fps is supported in all resolutions.

Why 24 FPS Matters for Cinematic Action Footage

Have you ever watched a movie and felt like you were right in the middle of the action? That’s not just great storytelling—it’s also about the frame rate. Most films are shot in 24 frames per second (fps), giving them that timeless, cinematic look we’ve grown to love. But what if you’re not a Hollywood director? What if you’re just someone who wants to capture your mountain biking adventure, surfing wipeout, or hiking trek with that same professional vibe? The secret is simple: you need an action camera that shoots in 24 fps.

Choosing the right action camera isn’t just about specs—it’s about capturing memories in a way that feels real, dramatic, and smooth. While 30 or 60 fps might seem like better options for fast-moving scenes, 24 fps has a unique charm. It reduces motion blur, gives your footage a more artistic feel, and is perfect for post-production editing. Whether you’re editing a vlog, creating a short film, or just want your GoPro-style videos to look more polished, 24 fps is the gold standard. In this guide, we’ll explore the best action camera that can shoot in 24 fps, helping you find the perfect balance between performance, price, and creative control.

What Makes an Action Camera Great at 24 FPS?

Frame Rate vs. Resolution: Finding the Right Balance

When hunting for the best action camera that can shoot in 24 fps, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by numbers. But here’s the thing: frame rate and resolution don’t always go hand in hand. A camera might offer 4K at 30 fps but only 1080p at 24 fps. That’s not necessarily a bad thing—especially if you prioritize smooth, cinematic motion over ultra-high detail.

For example, if you’re filming a sunset skateboard run, you don’t need every grain of sand in 4K. What you want is a natural, film-like motion that doesn’t feel too sharp or digital. 24 fps at 4K delivers that, but even 1080p at 24 fps with excellent color grading and stabilization can look stunning. Think of it like choosing between a high-contrast photo and a soft, dreamy one—both are valid, but one might fit your style better.

Pro tip: Always check if your camera supports 24 fps across multiple resolutions. Some models limit 24 fps to 1080p, while others let you shoot in 4K or even 5.3K at 24 fps. The more flexibility, the better.

Image Stabilization and Low-Light Performance

Shooting at 24 fps means longer exposure times per frame. This can be a double-edged sword. On one hand, it creates that dreamy, cinematic motion blur. On the other, it makes low-light performance critical. If your camera struggles in dim environments, 24 fps footage can look grainy or blurry.

Look for models with advanced stabilization (like HyperSmooth from GoPro or RockSteady from DJI) and large sensor sizes. A bigger sensor captures more light, which is essential when you’re not shooting at 60 fps. For instance, the DJI Osmo Action 4 has a 1/1.3-inch sensor—much larger than older models—making it a standout for low-light 24 fps shooting.

Here’s a real-world example: Imagine filming a sunset surf session. The light is fading, but you still want that smooth, film-like look. A camera with poor low-light performance will struggle, but one with a large sensor and good stabilization will keep your footage clean and stable, even as the sun dips below the horizon.

Audio and External Mic Support

Great footage isn’t just about visuals. If you’re editing your 24 fps clips into a vlog or short film, audio matters. Wind noise, muffled voices, or tinny sound can ruin an otherwise perfect shot. Some action cameras come with built-in mics that are surprisingly good, but for professional results, you’ll want external mic support.

Cameras like the Insta360 Ace Pro and GoPro Hero12 Black allow you to connect an external microphone via an adapter. This is a game-changer if you’re narrating while skiing or capturing ambient sounds during a hike. Even if you’re not using an external mic now, having the option gives you room to grow creatively.

Quick tip: If you plan to use an external mic, make sure your camera supports 24 fps while recording high-quality audio. Some models reduce audio quality at lower frame rates, which can be a dealbreaker.

Top 5 Best Action Cameras That Can Shoot in 24 FPS

1. GoPro Hero12 Black – The All-Around Champion

The GoPro Hero12 Black is often the first name that comes up when people think of action cameras, and for good reason. It supports 5.3K at 24 fps, 4K at 24 fps, and even 1080p at 24 fps with HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilization. This means your footage stays buttery smooth, even during high-speed activities like mountain biking or skiing.

What sets it apart? The Hero12 Black has excellent dynamic range, meaning it handles bright skies and dark shadows better than most competitors. This is crucial when shooting at 24 fps, where longer exposures can blow out highlights. Plus, it supports HDR (High Dynamic Range) in 24 fps mode, giving your footage more detail in both shadows and highlights.

One minor downside: The battery life dips when shooting at 24 fps in 5.3K. But with the Enduro battery, you can get around 70 minutes—enough for most adventures. And with USB-C charging, you can easily swap batteries on the go.

Best for: Creators who want top-tier quality, stabilization, and flexibility across resolutions.

2. DJI Osmo Action 4 – The Low-Light King

If you often shoot in dim lighting—think dawn hikes, indoor skate parks, or night biking—the DJI Osmo Action 4 is your best bet. Its 1/1.3-inch sensor is 2.4x larger than the GoPro Hero12’s, capturing significantly more light. This makes it perfect for 24 fps shooting in less-than-ideal conditions.

The Action 4 shoots 4K at 24 fps with RockSteady 3.0 stabilization, which is just as smooth as GoPro’s HyperSmooth. DJI also includes a “Color Mode” that boosts shadows without adding noise—ideal for 24 fps scenes where you need to recover detail in dark areas.

One thing to note: The Action 4’s front screen is smaller than the GoPro’s, making it harder to frame shots solo. But if you’re using a selfie stick or helmet mount, this won’t be an issue.

Best for: Low-light enthusiasts, night riders, and anyone who values clean, noise-free footage.

3. Insta360 Ace Pro – The Creative Powerhouse

The Insta360 Ace Pro is a newer player in the action camera market, but it’s quickly making waves. It shoots 8K at 24 fps (yes, 8K!), but even its 4K at 24 fps mode is impressive. What makes it unique? The 1/1.3-inch sensor (same size as the Action 4) and AI-powered noise reduction.

Insta360’s “PureVideo” mode uses AI to clean up grain in low-light 24 fps footage. This is a huge plus if you’re filming in dim environments without a light source. The Ace Pro also supports a flip-up screen, which is perfect for vloggers who want to see themselves while shooting at 24 fps.

One drawback: The 8K mode uses a lot of storage and battery. But for 4K at 24 fps, you’ll get around 90 minutes of recording time—better than most competitors.

Best for: Tech-savvy creators who want cutting-edge features and AI-enhanced video.

4. Akaso Brave 8 Lite – The Budget-Friendly Option

Not everyone wants to spend $400+ on an action camera. The Akaso Brave 8 Lite offers 4K at 24 fps for under $200, making it a solid choice for casual users. It doesn’t have the stabilization of GoPro or DJI, but it’s decent for low-speed activities like hiking or kayaking.

The Brave 8 Lite includes electronic image stabilization (EIS), which helps, but it’s not as smooth as HyperSmooth or RockSteady. Still, for the price, it’s impressive. It also supports external mics and has a touchscreen—rare in this price range.

One thing to watch: The battery life is shorter (around 60 minutes at 4K 24 fps), and the low-light performance isn’t great. But if you’re shooting in daylight or with a light source, it’s a steal.

Best for: Beginners, budget-conscious buyers, and those who don’t need professional-grade stabilization.

5. Sony ZV-1F – The Hybrid Option

The Sony ZV-1F isn’t a traditional action camera—it’s a compact vlogging camera. But with its 1-inch sensor and 4K at 24 fps support, it’s a fantastic option if you want cinematic quality without the bulk of a DSLR.

Unlike action cameras, the ZV-1F has a fixed lens (no interchangeable options), but it’s sharp and fast (f/2.0 aperture). This makes it great for low-light 24 fps shooting. It also has excellent autofocus and a built-in ND filter, which helps control exposure in bright conditions.

The downside? It’s not waterproof or shockproof, so you’ll need a case for extreme sports. But for vlogging, travel, or indoor filming, it’s a top contender.

Best for: Vloggers, hybrid shooters, and those who prioritize image quality over ruggedness.

How to Choose the Right 24 FPS Action Camera for Your Needs

Consider Your Primary Use Case

Not all action cameras are created equal. If you’re a surfer, you need a camera that’s waterproof without a case (like the GoPro Hero12 or DJI Action 4). If you’re a vlogger, a flip-up screen (Insta360 Ace Pro) or external mic support (Sony ZV-1F) is more important.

Ask yourself: What’s my main activity? How often will I shoot in low light? Do I need 8K, or is 4K enough? Your answers will help narrow down your choices.

Evaluate Accessory Ecosystem

Action cameras live and die by their accessories. GoPro has the largest ecosystem—mounts, lights, mics, and more. DJI and Insta360 are catching up, but their options are more limited. Akaso and other budget brands often have fewer accessories, which can be a problem if you need specialized mounts.

For example, if you’re into diving, you’ll want a camera with a dedicated dive housing (GoPro and DJI offer these). If you’re into drone mounting, check if your camera has a compatible adapter.

Battery Life and Charging

Shooting at 24 fps in 4K or higher eats up battery fast. Look for models with swappable batteries and USB-C charging. The GoPro Hero12 and Insta360 Ace Pro support fast charging, which is a lifesaver on long shoots.

Pro tip: Always carry spare batteries or a power bank. Even the best cameras won’t help if they’re dead.

Practical Tips for Shooting in 24 FPS

Use a Tripod or Stabilizer for Static Shots

24 fps works best when the camera is stable. If you’re filming a landscape or a slow-moving scene, use a tripod or gimbal. This prevents the “judder” effect that can happen when the camera moves too much at lower frame rates.

For example, if you’re filming a sunset, mount your camera on a tripod. The 24 fps will give your footage a smooth, film-like quality, while the tripod eliminates shake.

Adjust Shutter Speed for Natural Motion

The rule of thumb for 24 fps is to set your shutter speed to 1/50 second. This gives you a natural motion blur that mimics the look of film. If you go faster (like 1/100), your footage will look sharper but less cinematic. Slower (like 1/30) can add drama but might look blurry.

Most action cameras auto-adjust shutter speed, but if yours has manual controls (like the Sony ZV-1F), experiment with this setting.

Shoot in Log or Flat Color Mode for Post-Production

24 fps footage looks best when you have room to edit. Shoot in Log or flat color mode (available on GoPro, DJI, and Sony) to capture more dynamic range. This gives you more flexibility when color grading in post.

For example, the GoPro Hero12’s “GP-Log” mode preserves details in shadows and highlights, making it easier to match 24 fps clips with other footage.

Comparison Table: Best 24 FPS Action Cameras

Camera	Max 24 FPS Resolution	Stabilization	Low-Light Performance	Battery Life (24 FPS)	Price Range
GoPro Hero12 Black	5.3K	HyperSmooth 6.0	Excellent	70 mins (5.3K)	$350-$400
DJI Osmo Action 4	4K	RockSteady 3.0	Outstanding	120 mins (4K)	$300-$350
Insta360 Ace Pro	8K	FlowState	Very Good	90 mins (4K)	$400-$450
Akaso Brave 8 Lite	4K	EIS	Fair	60 mins (4K)	$150-$200
Sony ZV-1F	4K	Active SteadyShot	Very Good	60 mins (4K)	$500-$550

Final Thoughts: Finding Your Perfect 24 FPS Match

Choosing the best action camera that can shoot in 24 fps isn’t about finding the “best” camera—it’s about finding the one that fits your style. If you want versatility and top-tier stabilization, the GoPro Hero12 Black is hard to beat. If low-light performance is your priority, the DJI Osmo Action 4 is the clear winner. For tech lovers, the Insta360 Ace Pro offers AI-powered features you won’t find elsewhere.

Remember, 24 fps isn’t just a number—it’s a creative choice. It’s about capturing motion in a way that feels human, artistic, and timeless. Whether you’re filming a mountain descent, a beach sunset, or a quiet moment in nature, the right 24 fps camera will help you tell your story with depth and emotion.

So, what’s your next adventure? Grab your camera, set it to 24 fps, and start filming. The world is waiting to see it through your lens.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is 24 fps important for action cameras?

Shooting at 24 fps gives footage a cinematic, film-like quality that’s ideal for storytelling and slow-motion effects. It’s a popular frame rate for professional content creators seeking smooth, natural motion in their videos.

What is the best action camera that can shoot in 24 fps?

The GoPro Hero12 Black and DJI Osmo Action 4 are top contenders, offering 24 fps recording in up to 5.3K resolution with excellent stabilization. Both cameras deliver smooth, high-quality footage ideal for action and cinematic use.

Can budget action cameras shoot in 24 fps effectively?

Yes, several budget-friendly options like the Akaso Brave 8 and Insta360 One RS offer 24 fps recording with decent image quality. While they may lack advanced stabilization, they’re great for casual users wanting cinematic motion on a budget.

Does shooting in 24 fps affect battery life on action cameras?

Generally, 24 fps consumes less power than higher frame rates like 60 or 120 fps, leading to slightly longer recording times. However, resolution and features like image stabilization have a bigger impact on battery drain.

Is 24 fps suitable for fast-paced action scenes?

While 24 fps provides smooth motion, fast action may appear slightly less fluid compared to 60 fps. For cinematic pacing, 24 fps works well, but consider higher frame rates for sports requiring crisp slow-motion playback.

Can I switch between 24 fps and other frame rates easily?

Most modern action cameras, including models from GoPro and DJI, allow quick frame rate switching via on-screen menus or companion apps. This flexibility lets you adapt to different scenes while maintaining smooth, professional-quality footage.