Are you looking for a small camera that you can take anywhere—even underwater—and use to grab epic slow-motion videos of surfing, rock climbing, parasailing, or another adventurous activity? If so, you need an action camera. These compact wonders support fast frame rates, high-pixel video, and mounting on your person or in a tight space. They also provide stabilization for handheld recording, making them suitable for vlogs and travel videos. PCMag has been independently reviewing action cams for more than 12 years, and our current Editors’ Choice winners are the single-lens GoPro Hero12 Black and the dual-lens Insta360 X4 for 360-degree recording. But you can trust that all our picks below are well worth a look if neither of those grabs your attention. Make sure to read past the list for a full rundown of what you need to know before buying.
Deeper Dive: Our Top Tested Picks
Best Overall
GoPro Hero12 Black
Pros & Cons
Class-leading video stabilization
10-bit HDR, GP-Log, and SDR video profiles
Up to 5.3K60, 4K120, or 2.7K240 recording
More useful Easy Controls than on Hero11
Front and rear displays
Pro controls and timecode sync
Tough, waterproof build
Small enough to mount in tight spots
Drops long-running GPS feature
Only a few headphones support wireless audio feature
One battery won’t last all day
Why We Picked It
The GoPro Hero12 Black is, bar none, the best action cam you can buy today. It’s the latest version of the camera that defined the concept and the most technically advanced. It supports 5.3K60, 4K120, and 2.7K240 capture and matches them up with best-in-class stabilization and horizon-leveling. Scenes with mixed lighting benefit from HDR at 5.3K30 or 4K60. A nearly square image sensor boosts picture quality for creators pulling vertical 9:16 frames for TikTok, while its rugged and waterproof build means you don’t need an add-on case.
Who It’s For
The Hero12 Black is as versatile an action cam as you can find. Surfers, skateboarders, and other X Games participants can strap the camera to their person or board to get first-person views of stunts. Vloggers should appreciate its front-facing color display, standard tripod socket, and Media Mod accessory system. And 10-bit video with your choice of standard, HDR, or log color is a real benefit for editors.
Specs & Configurations
Dimensions
2.0 by 2.8 by 1.3 inches
Weight
4.5 oz
Type
Action Camera
Sensor Resolution
27 MP
Sensor Type
CMOS
Memory Card Slots
1
Memory Card Format
microSDXC
Battery Type
GoPro Enduro
Minimum ISO
100
Maximum ISO
6400
Display Size
2.3 inches
Connectivity
Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB-C
Maximum Waterproof Depth
33 feet
Video Resolution
5.3K
HDMI Output
None
Learn More
GoPro Hero12 Black Review
Best 360 Camera for Creators
Insta360 X4
Pros & Cons
Up to 8K video capture
Easy to hold and use
Waterproof build
Large touch screen
Capable editing software
Accessories add to cost
Runs hot
Why We Picked It
The Insta360 X4 is the camera to get for dual-lens, 360-degree video. It captures an all-around view of the world and gives you the software tools to do interesting and creative things with the video. The camera is waterproof and can survive rough handling, too, so it’s suitable for mounting and capturing action.
Who It’s For
Creators who want to try their hand at 360-degree capture and the editing techniques that go with it should find a lot to like about the X4. Its HDR video profile handles mixed lighting well and you can use the camera for special effects shots like Matrix-style bullet time and time-lapse with motion.
Specs & Configurations
Dimensions
4.87 by 1.46 by 1.01 inches
Weight
7.19 oz
Type
360-Degree
Sensor Resolution
72 MP
Sensor Type
CMOS
Sensor Size
1/2
Memory Card Slots
1
Memory Card Format
microSDXC
Battery Type
Lithium Ion
Minimum ISO
100
Maximum ISO
6400
35mm Equivalent (Wide)
6.7 mm
Stabilization
Digital
Display Size
2.7 inches
Connectivity
Bluetooth, USB-C, Wi-Fi
Maximum Waterproof Depth
33 feet
Video Resolution
8K
Learn More
Insta360 X4 Review
Best GoPro for Budget Shoppers
GoPro Hero10 Black
Pros & Cons
5.3K capture at up to 60fps
120fps 4K for slow motion
Class-leading video stabilization
Front-facing color screen
Waterproof without an add-on case
Media Mod support
Extended-run Enduro battery available as add-on
Wi-Fi and USB transfer for phones and tablets
Included battery drains quickly
Heat limits long-form recording
Why We Picked It
Now two generations old, the Hero10 Black remains in the GoPro lineup as the affordable option. It records 5.3K60 and 4K120 video just like the Hero12, but it uses a 4:3 aspect sensor that isn’t as versatile for pulling out vertical frames and lacks the newer model’s HDR profile. Even so, the camera produces sharp video with effective stabilization and works with the same Media Mod accessory system.
Who It’s For
This is a good pick for action cam fans on a budget. At around $250, it undercuts the price of other GoPro and DJI models, and if you’re willing to pay for an annual GoPro subscription, adds useful features like automated video editing and direct uploads from camera to cloud.
Specs & Configurations
Dimensions
2.8 by 2.2 by 1.3 inches
Weight
5.4 oz
Type
Action Camera
Sensor Resolution
23 MP
Sensor Type
CMOS
Memory Card Slots
1
Memory Card Format
microSDXC
Stabilization
Digital
Display Size
2.3 inches
Connectivity
Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB-C
Maximum Waterproof Depth
33 feet
Video Resolution
5.3K
HDMI Output
None
Learn More
GoPro Hero10 Black Review
Most Innovative Design
DJI Action 2
Pros & Cons
Tiny, go-anywhere form factor
Magnetic mount and snap-on accessories
Effective digital stabilization
Up to 4K120 video
12MP photos
Waterproof to 33 feet
Works as a webcam
Front screen option pushes price high
Overheating is a concern
No card slot or charging port on main camera module
Front screen and battery aren’t waterproof
Why We Picked It
The DJI Action 2 rethinks the action cam design. It’s modular and has magnetic mounting points that let you place the camera in tight spots that can’t quite hold a GoPro. You can even use the camera as a wearable body cam with the included pendant necklace mount. Video quality is strong too, with 4K120 recording available for action and slow motion.
Who It’s For
If you’re looking for a small, wearable camera for travel logs and adventures, the Action 2 is a good choice. The camera’s video features are competitive with GoPros and the industrial design is a winner for style-conscious influencers.
Specs & Configurations
Dimensions
1.5 by 0.9 inches
Weight
2 oz
Type
Action Camera
Sensor Resolution
12 MP
Sensor Type
CMOS
Memory Card Slots
1
Memory Card Format
microSDXC
Battery Type
Internal
Stabilization
Digital
Display Size
2 inches
Connectivity
Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB-C
Maximum Waterproof Depth
33 feet
Video Resolution
4K
HDMI Output
None
Learn More
DJI Action 2 Review
Best Low-Light Action Cam
DJI Osmo Action 4
Pros & Cons
Wide-angle lens with excellent digital stabilization
Front and rear touch screens
Up to 4K120 slow motion
10-bit D-Log color
Waterproof to 59 feet
Works as a webcam
Smartphone-based product activation
Quick-release mount is easy to lose
Rear display isn’t visible through polarized sunglasses
Why We Picked It
The DJI Osmo Action 4 uses a big Type 1/1.3 format image sensor to produce crisp video in dim light, better than what you get from the GoPro Hero12. The Osmo’s pixel count isn’t as high as the Hero 12’s, but it still supports up to 4K120 or 1080p240 video and takes 10MP snapshots. We also like its 75-minute battery life, dual touch screens, and 59-foot waterproof rating.
Who It’s For
The Osmo Action 4 is worth a look if you like to explore the world after the sun goes down. The front touch screen is handy for self-recording, and the camera’s tough build quality means you don’t have to worry about it breaking during rough-and-tumble use.
Specs & Configurations
Dimensions
1.7 by 2.8 by 1.3 inches
Weight
5.1 oz
Type
Action Camera
Sensor Resolution
10 MP
Sensor Size
Type 1/1.3
Memory Card Slots
1
Memory Card Format
microSDXC
35mm Equivalent (Wide)
11 mm
Stabilization
Digital
Display Size
2 inches
Connectivity
USB-C, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi
Maximum Waterproof Depth
59 feet
Video Resolution
4K
HDMI Output
None
Learn More
DJI Osmo Action 4 Review
Best Audio in a 360 Cam
GoPro Max
Pros & Cons
360-degree capture
Also works as a single-lens camera
Intuitive software tools
Strong stabilization
Good in-camera audio
Waterproof without a case
Integrated mounting clips
Effective resolution is really 1080p
Single-lens capture tops out at 60fps
Requires more editing time to get the best results from spherical footage
Why We Picked It
GoPro’s dual-lens action camera uses two lenses to record the entire world around it, but can also function as a single-lens action cam. The Max’s strengths as a 360-degree camera are its sharp video quality and software reframing tools. That’s not to mention the six internal microphones that grab the best in-camera audio of any action cam we’ve tested. As you might expect from a GoPro, the Max is also tough and waterproof (though only to 16 feet).
Who It’s For
The GoPro Max is a top pick for creators who want a dual-lens 360 camera and care a lot about audio quality. Travel vloggers and others who present to the camera won’t have to fiddle with an external mic with this one, and the Max is waterproof to boot. GoPro offers reframing tools for creative edits too, though they’re not quite as polished as what you get with the Insta360 X3.
Specs & Configurations
Dimensions
2.7 x 2.5 x 1.6 inches
Weight
5.8 oz
Type
Action Camera, 360-Degree
Sensor Resolution
18 MP
Sensor Type
CMOS
Memory Card Slots
1
Memory Card Format
microSDXC, microSD, microSDHC
Battery Type
GoPro ACBAT-001
Minimum ISO
400
Maximum ISO
6400
Stabilization
Digital
Display Size
1.7 inches
Connectivity
USB-C, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Maximum Waterproof Depth
16 feet
Video Resolution
5.6K
HDMI Output
None
Learn More
GoPro Max Review
Best Wearable Action Cam
Insta360 Go 3
Pros & Cons
Stabilized 2.7K30 video
Versatile, ultra-compact design
Waterproof to 16 feet
Action Pod attachment has flip-forward touch LCD
Action Pod housing isn’t submersible
Non-removable battery and no storage expansion slot
Some video modes require post-processing
Wearable footage looks unsteady
Why We Picked It
Cameras don’t get much smaller than the Insta360 Go 3. The capsule-sized model records 2.7K30 video, is waterproof, and works well for point-of-view captures, an aspect that video creators are sure to like. The included Action Pod housing turns the Go into a standard action cam with a flip-forward touch screen, so it’s not a one-trick pony.
Who It’s For
The Go 3 should appeal to creators who want a wearable camera or adventurers who want something they can mount in interesting places to capture unique perspectives. Make sure you are comfortable with video editing tools, however, since the Go 3 requires you to run footage through its app to create time lapses or apply digital stabilization.
Specs & Configurations
Dimensions
2.1 by 1.0 by 0.9 inches
Weight
1.2 oz
Type
Action Camera
Memory Card Format
Internal
Battery Type
Internal
35mm Equivalent (Wide)
11 mm
Connectivity
Bluetooth, Wi-Fi
Maximum Waterproof Depth
16 feet
Video Resolution
2.7K
HDMI Output
None
Learn More
Insta360 Go 3 Review
Best for Mixing 360 and 4K Footage
Insta360 One RS
Pros & Cons
Compact design
Swappable lens modules
Waterproof to 16 feet
Stabilized 4K60 and 5.7K 360 video
HDR available at 4K30
2:35 wide-screen mode
Mobile and desktop app support
In-camera mics disappoint outdoors
Modular design can get in the way
Small touch LCD
Battery only good for 75 minutes of 4K
Heat can limit long-form recordings
Why We Picked It
The Insta360 One RS is an action cam that supports swappable lenses, a unique capability for sure. When we tested a basic kit with a 4K main lens for 16:9 footage and a dual-lens 360 module for all-around recording, we appreciated the versatility and creative features. For higher-quality recording, Insta360 offers Leica-branded modules for both single-lens and dual-lens recording, thus making the camera upgradeable.
Who It’s For
If you can’t quite decide between a standard single-lens cam and a dual-lens 360 model, the Insta360 One RS might be the camera for you. It records pleasing 4K60 video with stabilization and supports extra-wide 2.35:1 recording. The dual-lens module does 5.7K30 and works with Insta360’s excellent editing tools.
Specs & Configurations
Dimensions
1.9 by 2.8 by 1.3 inches
Weight
4.3 oz
Type
Action Camera
Sensor Resolution
48 MP
Sensor Type
CMOS
Memory Card Slots
1
Memory Card Format
microSDXC
Battery Type
Internal
Stabilization
Digital
Connectivity
Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB-C
Maximum Waterproof Depth
16 feet
Video Resolution
4K, 5.7K 360°
HDMI Output
None
Learn More
Insta360 One RS Review
Buying Guide: The Best Action Cameras for 2024
What Are Action Cameras?Action cameras are small, lightweight, and sometimes even waterproof. They’re useful because you can mount them to pretty much anything—from skateboards, surfboards, and bicycles to helmets, body parts, and even your pets.They have all but replaced traditional camcorders in the marketplace. Family historians and budding cinematographers now use a GoPro or similar camera for wide shots and vlogs, while smartphones and newer mirrorless cameras are the tools of choice for home movies. Action cams also have a place in professional work. You should use a camera with a big sensor and interchangeable lenses when you can, but modern action cams capture video that’s good enough to intercut. Think about movie or TV scenes that show the interior of an exploding or crashing car—a GoPro likely recorded the footage. Do Action Cameras Need 4K?The first thing to consider is a camera’s video resolution. 4K is a minimum requirement these days, and the best models offer more than double that resolution. The GoPro Hero12 Black, for instance, supports 5.3K.Next, take a look at the available frame rates, expressed as frames per second (fps). Some action cameras offer up to 240fps recording, whereas ultra-budget options might top out at only 30fps. The latter is perfectly fine for standard playback, but the frame rate matters when you want to slow footage down in editing to create dramatic scenes. You can slow 240fps recordings down and play them back smoothly at one-quarter speed, for instance. If you want a cinematic look, pick a camera that has a 24fps capture option; that’s the speed that most Hollywood productions use.The best action cams put fast frame rates and high pixel counts together—the GoPro Hero12 Black pushes 240fps at 2.7K, for example, better than the 1080p240 you get from the DJI Osmo Action 4.
DJI Osmo Action 4 (Credit: Jim Fisher)
If you’re more serious about video, look for a model that offers a flat video profile that grades easily. We’ve not yet seen Raw video support in an action cam, but you can get that feature from larger models, including the Blackmagic Pocket Cinema 6K. Some sort of stabilization is important as well since it can help you get smooth footage without a tripod or gimbal. As long as you buy a newer DJI, GoPro, or Insta360 action cam, you won’t have to worry much. All include extremely effective digital stabilization, so you can get smooth footage regardless of whether you’re handholding or mounting the camera.
The Best Action Cameras With Wide Lenses and 360-Degree VideoMost action cams have a lens with a wide, wide view of the world. You are thus likely to encounter some fish-eye distortion, especially if you mount it really close to what it’s filming. Newer models compensate for that effect automatically. Most action cams also let you select a narrower angle for recording to avoid distortion at the outset.
Some entries have two lenses for spherical video capture, though not as many as during the height of the 360-degree video fad. The cameras that survived serve a dual purpose, leveraging software so you can use video for both VR headsets and flat screens. Software tools allow you to manipulate video in interesting ways, as you can see in the GoPro Max clip above.There are also outliers in the design department. The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 has a gimbal-stabilized camera—it’s not rugged, but vloggers should take a look.How to Mount Your Action CamYou should also consider your specific needs. Not all cameras are suitable for every sport and certain designs lend themselves better to particular activities. On top of that, different shapes allow for different mounting accessories and possibilities. If you want to catch a unique perspective, like an under-skateboard shot, pay close attention to a camera’s size.
Recommended by Our Editors
GoPro’s mount system is prevalent across the industry. Most action cams include built-in or bundled mounts that match up with the integrated mounting clips on recent GoPros. DJI Osmo cameras use removable mounts and include both GoPro and standard tripod options in the box. Meanwhile, the Insta360 X4 has a standard tripod socket, and the GoPro Hero12 Black is the first model in the series to include both clips and a standard tripod socket.
GoPro Hero10 Black (Credit: Jim Fisher)
Waterproofing is an important aspect to consider if you plan to record underwater or even around water. Some waterproof cameras can go deeper than others or even have built-in waterproofing, so you don’t need to worry about an extra housing. Longtime editors might be happy working with desktop editing software, but adventurers might want to cut footage on a smartphone or tablet. Look for a model with built-in Wi-Fi at a minimum if mobile editing is important.
Mobile editing in the GoPro app (Credit: GoPro/Jim Fisher)
You get better software support from name-brand options. DJI, GoPro, and Insta360 all include full-featured smartphone apps for on-the-go editing, so you can get videos right onto your social channels.If you go with a brand that doesn’t supply an editing app, you have to bring your own. It’s easy enough to use iMovie or Adobe Premiere Rush to cut clips together on your phone, however. If you need software for your desktop or laptop, check out our top video editing recommendations.
