An action camera is a small, lightweight video camera that is designed to capture life in motion. It can produce wide-angle video of the highest quality in almost any setting.
More of the best inexpensive action cameras here
Action cameras are designed to be highly durable, rugged pieces of equipment, some of which are inside a special housing.
You can use various types of mounts to capture video in ways that you cannot do with a regular video camera. Some of the more common uses include mounting it on your helmet, a surfboard, or even your body. If you are interested in purchasing an action camera without breaking the bank, take a look at the models listed below.
Best Sturdy Action Camera
This pocket-sized camera – Olympus TG-Tracker is tough enough to go with you on all of your adventures. It can be frozen, dropped, or submerged in up to 100 feet of water and will continue filming. It is also shockproof, dustproof and crushproof. Using advanced Olympus optics, it will record stunning Ultra HD 4K video. It features a tilt-out monitor and a LED headlight to help you capture difficult shots. A powerful lithium ion battery enables you to record for extended periods of time. Built-in Wi-fi, GPS, and action sensors allow you to record and share every amazing experience.
Users noted that this camera functions as well as a GoPro and that it’s speed is actually faster. They appreciated how easy it is to control and that they don’t need to purchase a lot of accessories. Reviewers stated they have everything they need right out of the box. They said that setting it on HD gives them a generous six hours of recording time. Consumers reported great image quality for both photos and videos. They loved the built-in screen so that they can see what they are recording.
Best Action Camera for the Money
This model – GoPro Hero4 features a built-in touch display that allows you to frame shots and playback content by simply tapping and swiping the screen. It also features a HiLight tag that allows you to mark certain shots to make them easier to find later. Save short highlight clips for easy sharing with built-in video trimming. It captures 12MP photos at a whopping 30 frames per second and 1080p60 and 720p120 video with sharp clarity. Quikcapture enables you to start recording with just the push of a button. It is waterproof up to 131 feet.
Consumers appreciated how compact and solidly built these cameras are. They stated that while the video produced is stunning, their snapshots are quite amazing, too. One reviewer noted that they got incredible video of swimming with a whale shark. They like that it also captures extremely wide shots. Consumers said they would definitely purchase this camera again. They deemed it an excellent value for the money.
Top Rated HD Action Camera
In addition to shooting ultra high resolution video, you can also capture beautiful 12MP singles or set it for a fast burst of 10 photos per second or time lapse with the Veho Muvi K-Series K-2 Pro. A smart LCD touch screen allows you to preview videos and photos, and the menu is easy to navigate to change preferences and settings. It features built-in Wi-fi so you can record, live view, and share on social media using a free smartphone app. It’s lithium-ion interchangeable battery provides up to three hours of uninterrupted recording time.
Reviewers loved the time lapse setting. They said the camera then puts the time lapse photos together for you and renders them in a single video file. Users stated it delivers high-quality videos and performs very well in darker light. They would recommend this camera to anyone who is looking for a quality action camera.
Best Budget Action Camera to Buy
This economically priced model – Sony HDR Action Cam will capture the action with a stereo mic that reduces wind noise and built-in Wi-fi. Edit your adventures into one video with Sony’s Highlight Movie Maker software that is included with this purchase. It is capable of recording in seven different video modes and features SteadyShot image stabilization to compensate for camera shake to deliver smooth video from full telephoto to wide-angle shooting. It’s splash-proof body can be used out of its housing even in the rain. It features loop recording settings to ensure you catch all of the action without running out of space on your card.
Customers noted that the video was of very high quality. They loved how easy it was to use. Users appreciated how lightweight this camera is and that it has a mount on it so that you can mount it to almost anything without needing a bulky case. They liked that it is splashproof. Reviewers praised the built-in stabilization and one consumer stated that they were able to record a fantastic video while going 70 mph on gravel roads. They said it is easy to connect with your cellphone for live video feed.
Find top rated budget action cameras here
If you are looking for an action camera on a budget, any one of the four models listed above have all the right bells and whistles to ensure a lifetime of photographic memories.