Choosing the best Action Camera is not an easy task: there are many very different models on the market that can easily confuse a user during the decision-making process.
The primary objective is to establish the use that will be made of an Action Cam. In fact, it will be an extension to decide the budget that we have to serve and not the opposite unless you are looking for an affordable camera without any claims.
Even in this case, however, it is really easy to run into models that negatively exceed the minimum quality threshold and that, even if they bring with them a good saving, they will most likely remain unused. So let us guide you to discover the right Action Camera for every use.
Best Action Camera 2018: Which to Buy
Now it’s time to go into the details of our guide and show you the Best Action Camera 2018 currently available on the market. Below you will find a handy info that will allow you to move easily between the various price ranges.
Best Action Camera Under $100
YI Action Camera
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Xiaomi aims to dominate other markets as well as that of smartphones and the premises are more than good. In this figure, you can not find better since the quality of the recording is comparable to higher-end products. The display is certain, but simply connect your smartphone via Bluetooth to be able to view live images.
APEMAN 4K Action Camera
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If you really cannot give up the display, but still look for a cheap product, this Action Cam is certainly one of the most interesting models. The integrated WiFi and a good supply of accessories combined with a quality that is more than sufficient.
ACTIVEON CX
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ACTIVEON CX Gold Action Camera (Black Gold) | Buy on Amazon |
Another great budget Action Camera is here: in this case, you can choose different filters and effects depending on what the recording environment is. The interface has been designed with the user in mind who can activate the various functions of the CX model by using only on two buttons.
Best Action Camera Under $200
GoPro HERO7 White
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GoPro Hero7 White — Waterproof Action Camera with Touch Screen 1080p HD Video 10MP Photos | $241.00 $228.00 | Buy on Amazon |
The new GoPro HERO7 White is offered with some features less than the more expensive models, but with a much more aggressive price. Remaining among the mid-range Action Cams, in fact, you can bring home a product with excellent quality, equipped with most of the technical features that have made the fortune of GoPro.
GoPro HERO5 Session
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GoPro Hero5 Session, 1080p | $199.99 $189.97 | Buy on Amazon |
Even this GoPro aims very high, thanks to high-quality materials, video recording up to 4K and 10MP photos in single mode, sequence, and timing. Designed to be tough, the HERO5 Session is water resistant to 10m (33 ft) without an enclosure. Too bad for the lack of battery life.
Xiaomi Mijia Mini 4K
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Xiaomi Mijia Mini 4k Action and Video Camera Sport Camera 30fps 145 Angle 2.4" HD Screen Bluetooth... | Buy on Amazon |
We open this category with another Action Camera from Xiaomi able to record video in 4K. For the selling price, you will bring home an excellent product that can give you satisfaction with any type of use.
Polaroid Cube+
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Polaroid Cube+ 1440p Mini Lifestyle Action Camera with Wi-Fi & Image Stabilization (Black) | Buy on Amazon |
Who said that an Action Cam must necessarily have sober colors? This model, in addition to being particularly flashy, contains an 8MP sensor that allows you to record excellent videos in 2K. Even the battery life is also not bad.
SJCam M20
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SJCAM SJ4K Action Camera Full HD 4K Helmet Waterproof Underwater Camera for Snorkeling 12MP Sports... | Buy on Amazon |
This SJCam M20 also has a different style from the usual action cam. It convinces thanks to the Sony IMX206 16MP sensor that gives very good photos and, together with the Novatek 96660 chipset, allows recording videos at 2K at 30fps and up to 4K at 24fps. Another strong point is its weight of just 55 grams.
YI 4K Action Camera
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YI 4K Action and Sports Camera, 4K/30fps Video 12MP Raw Image with EIS, Live Stream, Voice Control -... | $249.00 | Buy on Amazon |
The best in this price range is undoubtedly the Yi 4K Action Camera, equipped with a 12MP Sony IMX377 sensor, 7 layers of glass lenses and Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS) to ensure high-resolution, ultra-clear 4K video stable. Excellent performance even in low light conditions, it can record videos up to 4K at 30fps and has a 160-degree wide-angle lens.
Best Action Camera Under $300
GoPro HERO5 Black
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GoPro Hero5 Black — Waterproof Digital Action Camera for Travel with Touch Screen 4K HD Video 12MP... | $398.00 $369.76 | Buy on Amazon |
GoPro has monopolized the Action Camera market in recent years, thanks to superior quality models compared to the competition. Precisely for this reason, even if Hero5 is a product of 2016, it remains always current. Inside there is a sensor that can record 4K video and the software is really light years ahead of other brands.
GoPro HERO7 Silver
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GoPro Camera HERO7, Silver | $144.98 | Buy on Amazon |
The new “budget” model of GoPro also allows those who do not want to spend exaggerated figures to approach high-quality products. The 10MP sensor is used and allows video recording in 4K at 30fps. There is no lack of touchscreen, which can be bypassed by voice commands and excellent stabilization, but not at the level of the elder brother.
Best Action Camera Above $300
GoPro HERO7 Black
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GoPro Hero7 Black — Waterproof Action Camera with Touch Screen 4K Ultra HD Video 12MP Photos 720p... | $249.99 $204.98 | Buy on Amazon |
Just introduced, the new GoPro Action Cam is already enjoying a lot of success. Although at first glance it may seem very similar to the previous model, the changes are tangible and not negligible. The 12MP sensor is indeed significantly improved compared to the past and thanks to the HyperSmooth stabilization, allows perfect shooting even in the most difficult conditions. Do not miss the water resistance up to 10meters, voice commands, and HDR photos.
GoPro HERO6 Black
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GoPro HERO6 Black — Waterproof Digital Action Camera for Travel with Touch Screen 4K HD Video 12MP... | $259.89 | Buy on Amazon |
GoPro HERO6 Black, however, remains a product more than current and high-level features at a price all in all correct. The sensor is able to record 4K video at 60fps and to take excellent HDR photos even in RAW format. Do not miss the impermeability up to 10 meters.
Sony HDR-AZ1VR
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If you are looking for a product out of the chorus, both as a design and as a feature, we can only recommend this Sony Action Camera. The recordings are made using an excellent 12MP Exmor R sensor which, working with Zeiss Tessar optics, allows to obtain an above-average quality. Connectivity is also high level, thanks to the presence of WiFi and NFC.
Nikon KeyMission 170
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Nikon KeyMission 170 | $258.00 | Buy on Amazon |
Nikon has always been secure in the video/audio field and is not denied even with his action camera line up. This model is equipped with an excellent 170-degree ultra-wide angle sensor so as not to miss a single detail of the scene you are recording. This is combined with water resistance up to 10 meters and resistance to cold, bumps and dust.
Garmin Virb Ultra 30
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Garmin VIRB Ultra 30 Action Camera | $599.99 | Buy on Amazon |
This Action Cam from Garmin deserves to be included in this guide, which is aimed directly at sports and outdoor enthusiasts. The technical specifications allow it to record videos up to 4K at 30fps and is equipped with G-Metrix – GPS 10 Hz with high sensitivity and integrated accelerometer.
Most sold Action Cameras of the Moment
After the full purchase guide on the Best Action Camera 2018, you can also take a moment to the point of the situation on the best-selling Action Cameras on the Amazon. The inclinations to purchases by users can say a lot about which models are most appreciated.
- 4K Ultra HD action camera: Professional 4K30Fps & 2.7K30Fps video with 20MP photos at up to 30 frames per second for incredible photos, which is 4 times the resolution of traditional HD cameras.
- Smooth Stabilization: Built-in Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS) delivers steady and smooth videos. It can enable excellent footage even you or the object is in fast-moving.
- 131ft waterproof camera: AKASO EK7000 is designed to withstand extreme environments, together with durable waterproof case. With the accessories, transform it for indoor and outdoor activities.
- Wireless wrist remote control sports camera: With a wrist 2.4G remote, you can capture the world in an all-new way. Controlling the camera, framing shots or recording video is convenient. (THE REMOTE IS NOT WATERPROOF)
- Built-in Wi-Fi & HDMI, edit & share your action in minutes: Just download App(AKASO GO) on your phone or tablet and connect with this action camera. Wi-Fi signal ranges up to 10 meters. MicroSD card is not included.
- 4K30fps Video & 20MP Photo: Capture every detail of life’s most beautiful moments with video resolutions from 4K 30fps to 1080P 60fps and 20MP photos so you can relive them anytime, anywhere. Start recording the wonders of your life.
- 170° Adjustable View Angle and Image Stabilization: With four customizable viewing angles of 170°, 140°, 110°, and 70°, capture the perfect perspective for any situation. Built-in smart gyroscope technology ensures shock-resistant and stable shooting, leading to incredibly smooth, professional-looking footage that stands out from the competition.
- Sport Camera with Wifi and HDMI: This action camera comes equipped with both Wi-Fi and HDMI capabilities, allowing you to quickly and effortlessly share and edit videos with the free app. Simply download the app on your phone or tablet and connect with the camera. With a Wi-Fi signal range of up to 10 meters and an HDMI port for TV connectivity, you can easily share your exciting experiences with friends and family in high quality and on a bigger screen.
- 131FT Waterproof Camera and Dual Screen: Place your action camera into the waterproof case and securely fasten it, then you can dive below 40 meters. This underwater camera is ideal for water sports such as swimming, surfing, diving, etc. Equipped with a 2“ rear screen and 0.96” front screen, you can effortlessly shoot in various scenarios, ensuring you get the perfect shot every time.
- Free Valuable Accessories: This underwater camera comes with mini selfie stick and a USB Dual Charger and 2 rechargeable 1050mAh batteries, each battery can record up to 90 minutes. We have optimized some accessories for the new version of Brave 4 to make it more suitable for bicycle/motorcycle activities. And the medium-sized bag makes it convenient to carry cameras and accessories.
- 【1080P HD Images and Videos】Dsoon (TL2100) time-lapse camera uses advanced chips and fill light technology, combined with a 110° wide-angle starlight lens, which will capture and share your world in 1080P resolution, providing clear images for your projects even in challenging low-light conditions.
- 【Extra Long-Time Stanby】 Forget the hassle of constantly charging your construction camera. With a remarkable battery life of up to half a year, you can confidently embark on long-term projects without worrying about power. The battery lasts up to 180 days with a 5-minute capture interval.
- 【Effortless Time-lapse Setup】 Experience quick and hassle-free setup! Connect to the power supply, and the time-lapse camera will continuously cycle through shots until the SD card reaches full capacity, providing a seamless solution for extended time-lapse photography.
- 【Versatile Shooting Modes】 Whether you're into timed shooting, video time-lapse, or photo time-lapse, our camera has you covered. With manual macro focus capability, you can capture both macro and infinity shots. Document long-term environmental changes, create short video clips, or even produce entertaining stop-motion animation movies!
- 【Professional-Grade Equipment】 Engineered with IP66 and housed in a Waterproof design, this timelapse camera is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. The comprehensive package includes the Timelapse Camera, Wall Bracket,Round Tube Bracke, Installation Strap and Rope , SD card, USB Cable, and User Manual. Capture every moment with confidence and precision.
- Best-in-class 5.3K60 video and legendary durability combine with new HB-Series Lenses1 and a more powerful battery to make HERO13 Black the essential camera for every creator.
- 4K30fps Video & 20MP Photo: Capture every detail of life’s most beautiful moments with video resolutions from 4K 30fps to 1080P 60fps and 20MP photos so you can relive them anytime, anywhere. Start recording the wonders of your life.
- 170° Adjustable View Angle and Image Stabilization: With four customizable viewing angles of 170°, 140°, 110°, and 70°, capture the perfect perspective for any situation. Built-in smart gyroscope technology ensures shock-resistant and stable shooting, leading to incredibly smooth, professional-looking footage that stands out from the competition.
- Sport Camera with Wifi and HDMI: This action camera comes equipped with both Wi-Fi and HDMI capabilities, allowing you to quickly and effortlessly share and edit videos with the free app. Simply download the app on your phone or tablet and connect with the camera. With a Wi-Fi signal range of up to 10 meters and an HDMI port for TV connectivity, you can easily share your exciting experiences with friends and family in high quality and on a bigger screen.
- 131FT Waterproof Camera and Dual Screen: Place your action camera into the waterproof case and securely fasten it, then you can dive below 40 meters. This underwater camera is ideal for water sports such as swimming, surfing, diving, etc. Equipped with a 2“ rear screen and 0.96” front screen, you can effortlessly shoot in various scenarios, ensuring you get the perfect shot every time.
- Free Valuable Accessories: This underwater camera comes with a 64GB U3 card and 2 rechargeable 1050mAh batteries, each battery can record up to 90 minutes. We have optimized some accessories for the new version of Brave 4 to make it more suitable for bicycle/motorcycle activities. The kits are available for most kinds of cameras even Gopro. The remote wristband is not waterproof.
- 【5 Hours Long-lasting Experience】- This action camera comes with 2 x 1350mAh batteries, providing up to 2 hours of continuous shooting, eliminating concerns about recording time and ensuring extended usage without interruptions
- 【4K60FPS Ultra HD Action Camera】- Professional 4K 60fps & 2.7K 60fps video（60fps is only available when EIS is turned off.） and 20MP photos provide up to 30 frames per second, delivering exceptional photo quality that is four times higher in resolution compared to standard HD cameras
- 【Capacity of up to 128GB】- Every moment worth cherishing deserves to be captured. With support for up to 128GB micro SD cards, this camera's powerful storage capability helps you capture and preserve more vivid moments with outstanding clarity
- 【131ft Waterproof Camera】- The 4K underwater camera is waterproof up to 131 feet (40M) and has an IP68 enclosure to ensure durability in challenging conditions. Whether you enjoy water sports such as swimming, surfing, and snorkeling, or take part in other exciting outdoor activities, this camera is the perfect companion for you. In addition, it comes with a range of free accessories to enhance your experience, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. It should be noted that the accessory remote control needs to be waterproof before entering the water
- 【Intuitive Touch Screen Contorls】- Featuring an intuitive touch screen, this camera offers simple and streamlined capture modes, making it effortless to dive in and capture great shots. With easy swipe and tap controls, getting the perfect shot is a breeze
- 【Fence Phone & Camera Mount】 Secure a smartphone or action camera to a chain link fence or grid wall to record exciting memories. For live streaming games of baseball, basketball, football, softball, tennis, volleyball, soccer, lacrosse, and other sports with this camera & cell phone holder fence game changer mounting accessories kit, compatible with GameChanger app for iphone for score keeping, vlogging, video recording, compatible with Mevo Start for live streaming. Max Load 4.4lb/2kg
- 【Stable & Secure Fence Grip】 With metal clamps and elastic hooks, the phone fence mount can be easily attached to the fence, ensuring stable and shake free footage even in strong winds or when a ball hits. Besides, the independent knobs of the joints reliably tighten the fence mount after each adjustment, giving you peace of mind during recording sessions
- 【Flexible Fence Mounting】 The action camera mount can move sideways in a range of 4.3" (11cm) and rotate at 360° for the most optimal shooting angles. Or use the included phone holder for left to right, up and down adjustment, ensuring that the fence does not obstruct the screen during video recording
- 【For Phone & Action Camera】 The 2"-3.3" (5.4-8.5cm) phone clamp clip of fence mount accessories kit for baseball is compatible with iPhone 16 15 Pro Max Plus 14 13 Samsung Galaxy S24 S23 Ultra Google Pixel 9 8 7 Pro. A cold shoe for a monitor, fill light, microphone. The mount adapter is compatible with GoPro Hero 13 12 11 10 9 8 7 Black go pro Max compatible with DJI OSMO Action 5 Pro 4 3 2 compatible with Insta360 X4 X3 GO3S insta 360 Ace Pro compatible with AKASO Brave 8 7 4 combos, etc.
- 【Hassle Free Setup】 The camera fence mount features an integrated design, making installation and disassembly incredibly simple, without the need for any extra tools, and is versatile for various types of fences
- CAPTURE ADVENTURE IN 4K60FPS: Record stunning 4K60FPS video and 30MP photos with sharp precision. Shoot up to 60 frames per second of crystal-clear stills, providing 4 times the resolution of standard HD cameras. Plus, with the INCLUDED 64GB MEMORY CARD, you won't have to worry about storage limitations or missed moments. Perfect for high-action environments like snowboarding, biking, motocross, hiking, climbing, skateboarding, skydiving and ziplining
- DUAL SCREEN DESIGN: This action camera features a dual screen design, including a 2.0-inch touch-sensitive HD rear screen and a 1.4-inch non-touch front screen. The intuitive interface allows for easy adjustments to settings, seamless switching between shooting modes, and convenient previewing and playback, while also catering to your selfie needs
- EXCEPTIONAL STABILIZATION PERFORMANCE : Built-in six-axis electronic image stabilization (EIS) provides exceptional anti-shake performance for steady and smooth videos, eliminating the frustration of shaky footage. Whether capturing thrilling adventures or everyday moments, this feature ensures smooth footage even in fast motion, letting you relive your experiences with clarity and confidence
- UNDERWATER ADVENTURE READY: This underwater camera, with its rugged waterproof case, allows dives up to 132 feet, letting you capture underwater adventures without fear of damage. Perfect for water sports like snorkeling, surfing, diving, swimming, motorboating, kayaking, and rafting, it ensures you never miss a moment of your aquatic experiences
- CONVENIENT REMOTE CONTROL: This video camera comes with a wrist 2.4G remote, allowing you to easily control the camera, frame shots, and record video with convenience. (Note: The remote is not waterproof.)
- Action Camera 4K+ Dual-Screen: Speed 20 underwater camera records high-resolution 4K 60FPS videos and 20MP HD photos. It is equipped with a 2 inch touch sensitive HD rear screen and a 1.4 inch non-touch front screen, facilitating easy selfies. With a 170° fish-eye lens, it captures wide-angle shots that encompass the entire scene.
- EIS Anti-Shake: EIS 6-Gypro Sensor technology guarantees stable and seamless footage while using the sports camera, capturing key moments with sharp clarity. Waterproof camera underwater 131ft with the waterproof housing. Please note that EIS is not functional at 5K.
- Wireless Remote: Underwater action camera features a convenient portable remote control for effortless switching between video and photo modes with a single click. Please note that the wireless remote for the 4k action camera is not waterproof.
- APP Connectivity and Sharing: Utilize the action camera app by downloading it and connecting via built-in WiFi to begin. Easily download videos and photos from the 4k underwater camera and share stunning scenes and memorable moments whenever you like.
- Extended Battery Life: Speed 20 action camera 4k+ includes 2x1350mAh batteries, providing a total recording time of up to 4.5 hours, ideal for extended outdoor use. It also comes with a remote control, waterproof case, and multiple accessories, ensuring its versatility across various scenarios. Please note, the package does not include memory card.
- BORN ALL-WEATHER ACTION CAMERA - Brave 7 LE action camera is weatherproof and distinct to unlock all the filming scenarios and ease your vlogging experience. Its IPX7 water-resistant design can protect the action camera from rain, snow and water splashing. Your underwater adventure can even down to 131FT/40M while equipped with the included waterproof housing.
- CONVENIENT DUAL-DISPLAY - With innovate dual color screens design, you can change framing and monitoring views between back and front, especially the vivid front screen can satisfy your selfies need and 2-inch back touch screen makes it easy to use than ever. Press and hold Mode button to switch between the front screen and the touchscreen camera view.
- SHOOT 4K VIDEO & 20MP PHOTO - This action camera can take hyper-quality 4K 30Fps video and 20MP photo, recording your adventure without missing any details!
- ELECTRONIC IMAGE STABILIZATION 2.0 - This action camera is equipped with improved 6-axis EIS, it can provide gimbal-like stabilization and greatly boost the stability and fluency of your recording. It can enable excellent footage even you or the object is in fast-moving.
- A FULL SET OF PROFESSIONAL FUNCTIONS & FREE ACCESSORIES - Digital zoom function and various shooting modes, such as time-lapse, burst photo and fast motion, help you create your footage beyond imagination. Included accessories of 2 rechargeable batteries, remote, waterproof housing and multifunctional mounting kits help you expand your usage scenarios with pleasant budget.
Final line
Just for the moment, our journey in search of the Best Action Camera 2018 ends here. The models that we have presented, conveniently divided by price range, are the best you can currently find on the market.
If you are more passionate about the camera, we recommend reading some insights that have already been published on our site: here you will find many other Action Camera models for all tastes.
- Best Accessories for GoPro Action Cameras
- Best Camera Backpack: Which One Should I Buy
- Best Budget Action Cam: Which One I Should Buy
- Best Underwater Action Cam: Which One I Should Buy
- Best 360 Video Camera: Which One I Should Buy
- Best Action Camera: Which One I Should Pick
- Best Underwater Camera: Which one to Buy
