Looking for the best cheap action cameras that deliver solid performance without breaking the bank? You’re in the right place. Whether you’re capturing mountain bike trails, snorkeling adventures, or family vacations, affordable action cameras today offer impressive 4K video, waterproof designs, and smart features once reserved for premium models. We’ve tested and compared the top budget-friendly options to help you find a reliable, high-quality camera that fits your lifestyle and wallet.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 7 Best Cheap Action Cameras Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Luxebell Accessories Kit for AKASO EK5000 EK7000 4K WiFi Action Camera GoPro Hero 12 11 10 9 8 7 …
This isn’t a camera itself—but if you already own an AKASO or GoPro action cam, the Luxebell Accessories Kit is one of the smartest upgrades you can make. It turns your existing device into a full adventure-ready setup with mounts for every scenario.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Adjustable chest strap and head strap for hands-free POV shots
✓ Extendable selfie stick perfect for group hikes or water sports
✓ Strong suction cup mount for cars, boats, or smooth surfaces
✓ Lightweight and travel-friendly design
✓ Compatible with GoPro Hero 7 through 12 and AKASO models
Why We Recommend It
Instead of buying a whole new camera, this kit maximizes what you already have. It’s durable, versatile, and far cheaper than official GoPro mounts—making it ideal for budget-conscious adventurers who want professional-style footage.
Best For
Action camera owners who want expandable mounting options without overspending. Great for skiing, cycling, kayaking, and travel vlogging.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value for money
- Wide compatibility with major brands
- Sturdy build quality
- Comprehensive set of mounts included
Cons:
- Only useful if you already own a compatible camera
- No carrying case included
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Best value and quality for the price the go pro 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.”
2. S70 2.7K Thumb Action Camera, 64GB Mini Body Camera, Wearable Pocket Cam with Magnetic Lanyard, H…
Tiny but powerful, the S70 Thumb Action Camera slips into your pocket—or clips magnetically to your chest—to capture 2.7K video wherever life takes you. It’s perfect for hands-free recording during workouts, walks, or travel.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 2.7K HD video at 2688×1520 resolution
✓ 180° rotatable lens for flexible framing
✓ Built-in 64GB storage (no extra card needed)
✓ Magnetic lanyard for secure, wearable mounting
✓ 1.47-inch real-time preview screen
Why We Recommend It
For under $50, the S70 delivers surprisingly crisp video and a clever magnetic design that keeps your hands free. It’s not meant to replace a GoPro, but as a secondary POV cam or daily vlogging tool, it shines.
Best For
Fitness enthusiasts, travelers, and content creators who want lightweight, wearable footage without complex setups.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Ultra-compact and discreet
- No need for external memory cards
- Magnetic mounting is innovative and secure
- Great for POV and first-person shots
Cons:
- Video quality not quite 4K
- Build feels slightly plasticky
- Limited mounting options beyond the lanyard
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This S70 2.7K Thumb Action Camera is small but mighty! The video quality is incredibly sharp for such a compact device, and it’s perfect for capturing hands-free POV footage during walks, workouts, or travel. The magnetic lanyard is genius—it holds the camera securely without weighing you down.”
Customer Review: “Very cheap quality of materials and videos. Better buy insta360, if care about quality and durability.”
3. ODDV 4K60FPS 30MP Action Camera with Front LCD and Touch Rear Screens, Underwater Camera with 64G…
Packed with premium features at a fraction of the cost, the ODDV action camera shoots smooth 4K video at 60fps and includes dual screens—including a responsive rear touchscreen—for easy framing and playback.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ True 4K60FPS video and 30MP photos
✓ Dual-screen design: 2.0″ touch rear + 1.4″ front LCD
✓ Built-in 64GB storage and 6-axis EIS stabilization
✓ Waterproof up to 30 meters without a housing
✓ Includes remote control and multiple mounts
Why We Recommend It
This camera punches well above its price point. The 6-axis stabilization makes bumpy rides look smooth, and the dual screens are rare in this price range—perfect for vloggers who need to see themselves while recording.
Best For
Budget buyers wanting near-GoPro performance for underwater adventures, biking, or family trips.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent 4K video quality
- Dual screens enhance usability
- Strong stabilization for the price
- Comes with useful accessories
Cons:
- Battery life could be longer
- App connectivity occasionally glitchy
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.”
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.”
4. Apexcam Action Camera 4K with 64G SD Card Sports Cameras 20MP 131FT Waterproof Underwater Camera …
The Apexcam delivers reliable 4K recording, a wrist remote, and comes bundled with a 64GB SD card—making it one of the most complete starter kits under $60. It’s built for action, with a rugged design and solid waterproofing.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 4K/30FPS video and 20MP photos
✓ Wireless 2.4G wrist remote for easy control
✓ 131ft (40m) waterproof without extra housing
✓ Built-in Wi-Fi for phone app control
✓ Includes 64GB microSD card and dual batteries
Why We Recommend It
You get everything in one box: camera, remote, memory card, and mounts. The wrist remote is a standout feature—letting you start/stop recording from your handlebars or helmet without fumbling with the camera.
Best For
Beginners and outdoor adventurers who want a no-fuss setup with reliable performance across multiple activities.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Great value bundle
- Convenient wrist remote
- Solid waterproof performance
- Easy Wi-Fi pairing with phone
Cons:
- 4K limited to 30fps (not 60fps)
- App interface feels basic
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “The media could not be loaded.NOTE: long review but worth reading for tips and features.I shopped for a tiny sport camera that had to meet two criteria: it had to fit the 3D printed camera mount on my bike and it had to have an HDMI port to play back videos directly on my TV. With the APEXCAM I got both!”
Customer Review: “For a cheap budget build this item works well, 4k in 30 fps is meh but every other resolution works well and quality definitely surprised me. Also get so much for what you order so I would definitely recommend this item!”
5. 4K 60FPS Waterproof Action Camera,Bare Metal 66FT Underwater Camera,2″ Touch Dual Screen Sports 6…
With a rugged bare-metal body, dual touchscreens, and true 4K60FPS recording, this camera rivals models twice its price. It’s built for extreme conditions and delivers cinematic-quality footage whether you’re surfing or skiing.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 4K60FPS video and 64MP photo capability
✓ Dual-screen design: 2.0″ touch rear + 1.5″ front IPS
✓ 6-axis gyro stabilization for smooth footage
✓ 66ft (20m) waterproof metal housing
✓ Includes two batteries and mounting kit
Why We Recommend It
This is one of the few budget cameras that feels premium. The metal build adds durability, and the 6-axis stabilization makes even rocky trails look buttery smooth. Ideal for serious adventurers on a budget.
Best For
Outdoor athletes and travelers who need rugged reliability and high frame-rate recording without spending $200+.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Premium metal construction
- True 4K60FPS performance
- Excellent stabilization
- Dual touchscreens are intuitive
Cons:
- Slightly heavier than plastic models
- No included SD card
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 that’s not why I got it. Build quality is very nice, it’s a very sturdy 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.”
6. Action Camera with Dual Color Screen,Body Waterproof Camera Suitable for Travel Motorcycle Helmet…
Weighing just 40 grams, this ultra-light dual-screen camera is perfect for motorcycle riders, travelers, and vloggers. It records in 4K and features a front screen for selfies—all while being fully waterproof out of the box.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Dual color LCD screens (front + rear)
✓ 4K video recording and 16MP photos
✓ Weighs only 40g—pocket-sized and portable
✓ No-housing waterproof up to 2 meters
✓ Includes helmet and handlebar mounts
Why We Recommend It
It’s rare to find a sub-$50 camera with dual screens and decent 4K output. While not built for deep diving, it’s perfect for rain, splash zones, and everyday adventures where weight and size matter.
Best For
Motorcyclists, travelers, and casual vloggers who want a lightweight, easy-to-mount camera with selfie support.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight
- Front screen great for vlogging
- Affordable price point
- Includes useful mounts
Cons:
- Shallow waterproof rating (only 2m)
- Video quality dips in low light
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I bought this instead of a Go Pro and am not disappointed with the ease of operation and the clear videos. The hardware was easy to install on my quad and the camera works very well. I am also impressed the camera is rated waterproof down to 2 meters.”
Customer Review: “Très bon produit en plus waterproof je recommande pour les vacances”
7. 4K Vlogging Camera with Wireless Mic, Dual Lens, and 64GB SD Card
Designed specifically for content creators, this vlogging camera includes a wireless lavalier mic, dual lenses for wide and close-up shots, and comes ready to use with a 64GB SD card. It’s a complete YouTube starter kit under $100.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Dual-lens system for versatile framing
✓ Includes wireless lapel mic with auto-pairing
✓ 4K video recording and 48MP photos
✓ Infrared remote for hands-free control
✓ 64GB SD card and rechargeable battery included
Why We Recommend It
Most budget action cameras ignore audio—but this one includes a reliable wireless mic that actually works. The dual lenses add flexibility, making it ideal for talking-head videos, tutorials, or travel vlogs.
Best For
YouTubers, students, and remote workers who need clear video and audio without investing in separate gear.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Wireless mic included (huge value)
- Dual lenses offer creative options
- Plug-and-play setup
- Great for indoor and outdoor vlogging
Cons:
- Not waterproof
- Battery life shorter than action-focused models
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Setting this wireless mic up took no effort at all. I plugged the receiver into my phone, powered on the mic, and it linked by itself. I used it to record a few video clips around the house, and the sound stayed consistent wherever I walked. Voices sound clean and real without that hollow tone phone mics produce.”
Customer Review: “Setting this wireless mic up took no effort at all. I plugged the receiver into my phone, powered on the mic, and it linked by itself. I used it to record a few video clips around the house, and the sound stayed consistent wherever I walked. Voices sound clean and real without that hollow tone phone mics produce.”
Complete Buying Guide for Best Cheap Action Cameras
Essential Factors We Consider
When picking the best cheap action cameras, we prioritize real-world performance over specs alone. Key factors include video resolution (4K is ideal), stabilization (EIS or gyro-based), waterproof depth, battery life, included accessories, and ease of use. We also test build quality—because a camera that breaks after one hike isn’t a bargain.
Budget Planning
You can find excellent action cameras between $40 and $100. Under $50, expect solid 2.7K–4K30FPS performance with basic mounts. From $50–$80, look for 4K60FPS, dual screens, and better stabilization. Always check what’s included: some kits come with SD cards and remotes, while others require separate purchases.
Final Thoughts
The right budget action camera depends on your use case. For underwater fun, prioritize waterproof depth. For vlogging, dual screens and audio input matter most. And if you already own a camera, an accessories kit like the Luxebell can be the smartest upgrade. Don’t overspend—today’s affordable models deliver surprising value.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can cheap action cameras really record good 4K video?
A: Yes! Many budget models like the ODDV and 4K60FPS Metal Camera deliver sharp, usable 4K footage. While they may not match GoPro’s color science or low-light performance, they’re perfect for daylight adventures and casual recording.
Q: Do I need to buy a separate memory card?
A: Not always. Some cameras (like the S70 and Apexcam) include built-in storage or come with a 64GB card. Always check the product details—buying a separate high-speed microSD card can add $10–$20.
Q: Are these cameras compatible with GoPro mounts?
A: Most budget action cameras use standard mounting systems and work with universal or third-party mounts. The Luxebell kit explicitly supports GoPro-style attachments, making it a great complement to existing gear.
Q: How long does the battery last on these cameras?
A: Typically 60–90 minutes of continuous 4K recording. Many models include two batteries (like the 4K60FPS Metal Camera), which is a big plus for all-day trips.
Q: Can I use these for live streaming?
A: Most are not designed for live streaming. However, the 4K Vlogging Camera with Wireless Mic supports real-time audio and can connect to phones for mobile streaming via apps.
Ready to capture your next adventure without overspending? Any of the best cheap action cameras on this list will deliver impressive results for the price. Whether you’re hitting the trails, diving into the waves, or starting your YouTube journey, there’s a budget-friendly option built for you. Click the “Check Price” buttons above to compare current deals and grab yours today!
