Are you looking for a small camera that you can take anywhere—even underwater—and record epic slow-motion videos of surfing, rock climbing, parasailing, or other adventurous activities? If so, you need an action camera. These compact wonders support fast frame rates, high-pixel video, and can be mounted on your person or in tight spaces. They also stabilize handheld recording, making them suitable for vlogs and travel videos, so you don't have to be a thrill seeker to use one. I've been reviewing action cameras at PCMag for over 12 years, and I most strongly recommend the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro for adventures and vlogs, and the Insta360 X5 for 360-degree video. However, you won't find a bad camera among our top choices. If you're not an action cam expert, make sure to read past the list for a full rundown of what you need to know before buying.
Overview
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Best Action Camera OverallDJI Osmo Action 5 Pro
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Best 360 Degree Camera OverallInsta360 X5
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Best Action Camera for Slow MotionGoPro Hero12 Black
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Most Durable 360 CameraGoPro Max2
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Best Affordable 360 CameraInsta360 X3
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Best Budget-Friendly Action CameraDJI Osmo Action 4
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Best Wearable Action CameraInsta360 Go Ultra
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Best Action Camera for Conversion Lens SupportGoPro Hero13 Black
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Best Action Camera for Mixing 360 and 4K FootageInsta360 One RS
You Can Trust Our Reviews
Deeper Dive: Our Top Tested Picks
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Best Action Camera OverallDJI Osmo Action 5 Pro
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro uses a big Type 1/1.3 format image sensor to produce crisp video in dim light that looks better than what you get from the GoPro Hero13 Black. The Osmo's video resolution isn't as ambitious as the Hero 13's, but it still supports up to 4K120 or 1080p240, and it outperforms any GoPro for stills with 40MP Raw DNG and JPG capture. We love its large, dual touch screens, two-hour battery life at 4K60, and waterproofing for depths up to 59 feet.
Who It's For
Adventurers: The Action 5 Pro lives up to its name. It is built to withstand drops, is waterproof down to 59 feet, and is compact enough to mount on a helmet or skateboard, allowing you to capture your outdoor activities.
Content creators: Vloggers will appreciate the Osmo's fantastic digital stabilization, good low-light recording quality, dual touch screens, and excellent battery life. It's also compatible with DJI's popular Mic 2, Mic 3, and Mic Mini wireless microphones.
Specs & Configurations
35mm Equivalent (Wide) 9 Battery Type DJI Osmo 1,950mAh Connectivity Bluetooth Connectivity USB-C Connectivity Wi-Fi Dimensions 1.7 by 2.8 by 1.3 inches Display Resolution 854400 Display Size 2.5 inches Flat Profile HDMI Output None Maximum ISO 51200 Maximum Waterproof Depth 65.6 Memory Card Format microSDXC Memory Card Slots 1 Minimum ISO 100 Sensor Resolution 40 Sensor Size Type 1/1.3 Sensor Type CMOS Stabilization Digital Touch Screen Type Action Camera Video Resolution 4K Weight 5.2 Learn More DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro Review -
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Credit: Craig Wilson
Best 360 Degree Camera OverallInsta360 X5
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Insta360 X5 is one of the best cameras for capturing dual-lens, 360-degree video at 8K resolution, providing a clear and detailed picture. It captures an all-around view of the world and works with a clever smartphone app, allowing you to creatively reframe the all-around video for display on flat screens. The camera is waterproof and can withstand rough handling, making it suitable for mounting and capturing action.
Who It's For
Creative editors: Creators who want to try their hand at 360-degree capture will love using the X5. Its smartphone app provides all the tools you need to pan and zoom through its spherical video, allowing you to add effects like Big Little Planet projections and Matrix-style bullet-time slow-motion.
Specs & Configurations
35mm Equivalent (Wide) 6 Battery Type Insta360 Rechargeable Battery for X5 (2,400mAh) Connectivity Bluetooth Connectivity USB-C Connectivity Wi-Fi Dimensions 4.90 by 1.81 by 1.50 inches Display Size 2.7 inches Flat Profile HDMI Output None Maximum ISO 6400 Maximum Waterproof Depth 49 Memory Card Format microSDXC Memory Card Slots 1 Minimum ISO 100 Sensor Resolution 48 Sensor Size Type 1/1.28 Sensor Type CMOS Stabilization Digital Touch Screen Type 360-Degree Video Resolution 8K Weight 7.1 Learn More Insta360 X5 Review -
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Best Action Camera for Slow MotionGoPro Hero12 Black
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The GoPro Hero12 Black may not be the latest from the action cam powerhouse, but we see it as the best value option in the company's current lineup. For $60 less than the newer Hero13, you get video that's just as good, with excellent slow-motion options (5.3K60, 4K120, and 2.7K240), plus 10-bit color in HDR, SDR, or flat profiles. 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
Adventurers: The Hero12 Black is small, tough, and waterproof down to 33 feet, so you can mount it, abuse it, or take it snorkeling. Slow-motion video is a strong point; it pushes 120fps frames at 4K, good enough for a 4x slow-mo effect on a standard 30fps timeline.
Content creators: With 10-bit video and an uncommon 8:7 aspect ratio sensor, the Hero12 Black is a good action cam to use for vlogs and social media. You can pull out both vertical and widescreen footage from the same clip.
Specs & Configurations
Battery Type GoPro Enduro Connectivity Bluetooth Connectivity USB-C Connectivity Wi-Fi Dimensions 2.0 by 2.8 by 1.3 inches Display Size 2.3 inches Flat Profile HDMI Output None Maximum ISO 6400 Maximum Waterproof Depth 33 Memory Card Format microSDXC Memory Card Slots 1 Minimum ISO 100 Sensor Resolution 27 Sensor Size Type 1/1.9 Sensor Type CMOS Touch Screen Type Action Camera Video Resolution 5.3K Weight 4.5 Learn More GoPro Hero12 Black Review -
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Credit: Craig Wilson
Most Durable 360 CameraGoPro Max2
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Max2 combines GoPro's expertise in action camera design with dual-lens capture. It records 360-degree video at up to 8K30 quality, tightly integrates with GoPro's Quik smartphone app and subscription service, and serves as a traditional action cam with single-lens 5.6K60/4K100 recording capabilities. It earns extra points for durability; you can take it snorkeling at 16-foot depths without a case, and if you scratch or crack either of its lens guards, you can replace them in the field without needing extra tools.
Who It's For
Creative editors: Like other dual-lens cameras, the Max2 captures a 360-degree spherical image, allowing you to take its footage into the editing room and add pans, zooms to guide viewers through the scene. Additionally, it supports creative reframing shots, such as the popular Little Big Planet projection.
Adventurers: The Max2 is built tougher than other 360-degree cameras, allowing it to withstand drops and submerge underwater without worry. You can even change its lens guards without any tools, so it's easy to perform quick repairs in the field in the event that you crack or scratch either lens.
Specs & Configurations
Connectivity Bluetooth Connectivity USB-C Connectivity Wi-Fi Dimensions 2.74 by 2.52 by 1.92 inches Display Size 1.82 inches Flat Profile Maximum Waterproof Depth 16 Memory Card Format microSD Memory Card Slots 1 Sensor Resolution 29 Sensor Size 1/2.3-inch Sensor Type CMOS Touch Screen Type 360-Degree Type Action Camera Video Resolution 8K Weight 6.88 Learn More GoPro Max2 Review -
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Best Affordable 360 CameraInsta360 X3
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Insta360 X3 is the best 360-degree camera for creators on a budget. Its dual lenses capture the entire world, and a smartphone editing app lets you creatively reframe the spherical video to draw attention to a subject. The X3 records at 5.7K resolution, so it can withstand reframing edits, and the camera also features a single-lens 4K capture mode for traditional 16:9 video. It's waterproof too, so you can use it for action scenes and take it as deep as 33 feet without worry.
Who It's For
360 video fans on a budget: The X3 is a couple of generations old, so it's now selling at a steep discount versus the newer X5. If you want to try out spherical video to see if you like it, the X3 is a good camera with which to start.
Specs & Configurations
35mm Equivalent (Wide) 6.7 Battery Type Insta360 1800mAh for X3 Connectivity Bluetooth Connectivity USB-C Connectivity Wi-Fi Dimensions 1.8 by 4.5 by 1.3 inches Display Size 2.3 inches Flat Profile HDMI Output None Maximum ISO 3200 Maximum Waterproof Depth 33 Memory Card Format microSDXC Memory Card Slots 1 Minimum ISO 100 Sensor Resolution 48 Sensor Size Type 1/2 Sensor Type CMOS Stabilization Digital Touch Screen Type 360-Degree Video Resolution 5.7K 360° Weight 6.3 Learn More Insta360 X3 Review -
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Best Budget-Friendly Action CameraDJI Osmo Action 4
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Osmo Action 4 isn't the latest from DJI, but it is an exceptionally good action camera, especially when you get it on discount. It records crisp 4K video at up to 120fps with standard and HDR color, plus its oversized Type 1/1.3 sensor captures brighter video in dim light than comparable cameras from GoPro. Like other action cameras, it is built tough, can be used underwater, and is small enough to mount on a vehicle or helmet.
Who It's For
Budget shoppers: The Action 4 is selling for less than its $289 retail price, making it a good option if you're trying to curb your spending, especially considering its nearly equivalent performance to the newer Action 5 Pro.
Specs & Configurations
35mm Equivalent (Wide) 11 Connectivity Bluetooth Connectivity USB-C Connectivity Wi-Fi Dimensions 1.7 by 2.8 by 1.3 inches Display Size 2 inches Flat Profile HDMI Output None Maximum Waterproof Depth 59 Memory Card Format microSDXC Memory Card Slots 1 Sensor Resolution 10 Sensor Size Type 1/1.3 Stabilization Digital Touch Screen Type Action Camera Video Resolution 4K Weight 5.1 Learn More DJI Osmo Action 4 Review -
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Best Wearable Action CameraInsta360 Go Ultra
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Insta360 Go Ultra is the first wearable action camera we've tried that doesn't make sacrifices in favor of its form factor. It records clear 4K60 video with fantastic stabilization and rich color, and is really two cameras in one. You can wear it using an included clip or magnetic pendant, or put it in the included Action Pod and use it like any other action camera.
Who It's For
Content creators: The Go Ultra's tiny design is ideal for vloggers who want a camera that they can mount on a shirt or helmet to get a true first-person perspective, and the bundled Action Pod housing includes a flip-up screen for handheld and selfie videos.
Specs & Configurations
35mm Equivalent (Wide) 14.3 Battery Type Internal Connectivity Bluetooth Connectivity USB-C Connectivity Wi-Fi Dimensions 1.9 by 2.8 by 1.3 inches HDMI Output None Maximum ISO 6400 Maximum Waterproof Depth 33 Memory Card Format microSDXC Memory Card Slots 1 Minimum ISO 100 Sensor Resolution 50 Sensor Size Type 1/1.28 Sensor Type BSI CMOS Stabilization Digital Touch Screen Type Action Camera Video Resolution 4K Weight 5.7 Learn More Insta360 Go Ultra Review -
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Best Action Camera for Conversion Lens SupportGoPro Hero13 Black
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The GoPro Hero13 Black is a relatively modest upgrade from the previous generation, and is just as good for video thanks to its support for 5.3K60 and 4K120 video, waterproof build rated for depths up to 33 feet, and compatibility with most of the same accessories. It includes a new battery that promises longer run times, and it supports new anamorphic, macro, and ultra-wide add-on lenses, as well as extreme slow-motion (including 400fps at 720p and 120fps at 5.3K) in short bursts (5- to 15-second).
Who It's For
Adventurers: The Hero13 delivers the tough build and fantastic video quality you expect from GoPro, plus it works with an ultra-wide add-on lens so you can get even wider, epic views of your outdoor activities.
Creative content creators: The Hero13 builds on its predecessor's capabilities as a vlog camera with support for add-on lenses. It works with optional ultra-wide, macro, and anamorphic widescreen optics to get shots that other action cameras can't.
Specs & Configurations
Battery Type GoPro Enduro (1,900mAh) Connectivity Bluetooth Connectivity USB-C Connectivity Wi-Fi Dimensions 2.0 by 2.8 by 1.3 inches Display Size 2.3 inches Flat Profile HDMI Output None Maximum ISO 6400 Maximum Waterproof Depth 33 Memory Card Format microSDXC Memory Card Slots 1 Minimum ISO 100 Sensor Resolution 27 Sensor Size Type 1/1.9 Sensor Type CMOS Stabilization Digital Touch Screen Type Action Camera Video Resolution 5.3K Weight 5.6 Learn More GoPro Hero13 Black Review -
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Best Action Camera for Mixing 360 and 4K FootageInsta360 One RS
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Insta360 One RS is an action camera that supports swappable lenses, a unique capability indeed. 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 recordings, Insta360 offers Leica-branded modules for both single-lens and dual-lens setups, making the camera upgradable.
Who It's For
Content creators: You can take advantage of the One RS's modular design to try out different lenses and looks for your vlogs. It works with a standard 4K lens for action scenes, a large sensor add-on for low-light vlogging, and a dual-lens 360-degree module for spherical recording.
Specs & Configurations
Battery Type Internal Connectivity Bluetooth Connectivity USB-C Connectivity Wi-Fi Dimensions 1.9 by 2.8 by 1.3 inches Flat Profile HDMI Output None Maximum ISO 6400 Maximum Waterproof Depth 16 Memory Card Format microSDXC Memory Card Slots 1 Minimum ISO 100 Sensor Resolution 48 Sensor Type CMOS Stabilization Digital Touch Screen Type Action Camera Video Resolution 4K Video Resolution 5.7K 360° Weight 4.3 Learn More Insta360 One RS Review -
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4.5 Outstanding |
4.5 Outstanding |
4.5 Outstanding |
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4.0 Excellent |
4.0 Excellent |
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3.5 Good |
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Best For | Best Action Camera Overall | Best 360 Degree Camera Overall | Best Action Camera for Slow Motion | Most Durable 360 Camera | Best Affordable 360 Camera | Best Budget-Friendly Action Camera | Best Wearable Action Camera | Best Action Camera for Conversion Lens Support | Best Action Camera for Mixing 360 and 4K Footage | Best Action Camera Overall | Best 360 Degree Camera Overall | Best Action Camera for Slow Motion |
Dimensions | 1.7 by 2.8 by 1.3 inches | 4.90 by 1.81 by 1.50 inches | 2.0 by 2.8 by 1.3 inches | 2.74 by 2.52 by 1.92 inches | 1.8 by 4.5 by 1.3 inches | 1.7 by 2.8 by 1.3 inches | 1.9 by 2.8 by 1.3 inches | 2.0 by 2.8 by 1.3 inches | 1.9 by 2.8 by 1.3 inches | 1.7 by 2.8 by 1.3 inches | 4.90 by 1.81 by 1.50 inches | 2.0 by 2.8 by 1.3 inches |
Weight | 5.2 | 7.1 | 4.5 | 6.88 | 6.3 | 5.1 | 5.7 | 5.6 | 4.3 | 5.2 | 7.1 | 4.5 |
Type | Action Camera | 360-Degree | Action Camera | 360-Degree, Action Camera | 360-Degree | Action Camera | Action Camera | Action Camera | Action Camera | Action Camera | 360-Degree | Action Camera |
Sensor Resolution | 40 | 48 | 27 | 29 | 48 | 10 | 50 | 27 | 48 | 40 | 48 | 27 |
Sensor Type | CMOS | CMOS | CMOS | CMOS | CMOS | BSI CMOS | CMOS | CMOS | CMOS | CMOS | CMOS | |
Sensor Size | Type 1/1.3 | Type 1/1.28 | Type 1/1.9 | 1/2.3-inch | Type 1/2 | Type 1/1.3 | Type 1/1.28 | Type 1/1.9 | Type 1/1.3 | Type 1/1.28 | Type 1/1.9 | |
Lens Mount | ||||||||||||
Memory Card Slots | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
Memory Card Format | microSDXC | microSDXC | microSDXC | microSD | microSDXC | microSDXC | microSDXC | microSDXC | microSDXC | microSDXC | microSDXC | microSDXC |
Battery Type | DJI Osmo 1,950mAh | Insta360 Rechargeable Battery for X5 (2,400mAh) | GoPro Enduro | Insta360 1800mAh for X3 | Internal | GoPro Enduro (1,900mAh) | Internal | DJI Osmo 1,950mAh | Insta360 Rechargeable Battery for X5 (2,400mAh) | GoPro Enduro | ||
Minimum ISO | 100 | 100 | 100 | 100 | 100 | 100 | 100 | 100 | 100 | 100 | ||
Maximum ISO | 51200 | 6400 | 6400 | 3200 | 6400 | 6400 | 6400 | 51200 | 6400 | 6400 | ||
35mm Equivalent (Wide) | 9 | 6 | 6.7 | 11 | 14.3 | 9 | 6 | |||||
35mm Equivalent (Telephoto) | ||||||||||||
Optical Zoom | ||||||||||||
Stabilization | Digital | Digital | Digital | Digital | Digital | Digital | Digital | Digital | Digital | |||
Display Size | 2.5 inches | 2.7 inches | 2.3 inches | 1.82 inches | 2.3 inches | 2 inches | 2.3 inches | 2.5 inches | 2.7 inches | 2.3 inches | ||
Display Resolution | 854400 | 854400 | ||||||||||
Touch Screen | ||||||||||||
Viewfinder Type | ||||||||||||
Viewfinder Magnification | ||||||||||||
EVF Resolution | ||||||||||||
Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB-C | Bluetooth, USB-C, Wi-Fi | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB-C | Bluetooth, USB-C, Wi-Fi | Bluetooth, USB-C, Wi-Fi | USB-C, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB-C | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB-C | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB-C | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB-C | Bluetooth, USB-C, Wi-Fi | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB-C |
Maximum Waterproof Depth | 65.6 | 49 | 33 | 16 | 33 | 59 | 33 | 33 | 16 | 65.6 | 49 | 33 |
Video Resolution | 4K | 8K | 5.3K | 8K | 5.7K 360° | 4K | 4K | 5.3K | 4K, 5.7K 360° | 4K | 8K | 5.3K |
HDMI Output | None | None | None | None | None | None | None | None | None | None | None | |
Flat Profile |
Buying Guide: The Best Action Cameras for 2026
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 largely replaced traditional camcorders in the market. 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 large sensor and interchangeable lenses whenever possible, but modern action cams capture video that's good enough to intercut. Consider movie or TV scenes that depict the interior of an exploding or crashing car—a GoPro likely captured the footage.
Do Action Cameras Need More Than 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 Hero13 Black, for instance, supports 5.3K resolution. Those extra pixels are useful for cropping out widescreen and vertical frames from the same clip. For single lens cameras, 4K is plenty, but you'll want more pixels for 360-degree video; however, 5.7K at minimum and 8K to capture the clearest detail.
(Credit: Jim Fisher)Next, examine the available frame rates, expressed in frames per second (fps). Some action cameras offer up to 240fps recording, whereas ultra-budget options might top out at only 30fps. A 30fps cadence is perfectly fine for standard playback, but the frame rate becomes crucial when you want to slow down footage in editing to create dramatic scenes. For instance, you can slow 240fps recordings down and play them back smoothly at one-quarter speed. If you want a cinematic look with pleasingly blurred motion, choose a camera with a 24fps capture option; that's the standard speed used by most Hollywood productions.
The best action cams for slow-motion combine fast frame rates and high pixel counts—the GoPro Hero13 Black, for example, pushes 240fps at 2.7K, which is better than the 1080p240 you get from the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro.
(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 12-bit Raw video support in an action cam. That level of video quality is still restricted to big cameras with interchangeable lenses.
Digital stabilization is also important 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 models include extremely effective digital stabilization, allowing you to capture smooth footage regardless of whether you're handholding or mounting the camera.
The Best Action Cameras With Wide Lenses and 360-Degree Video
Most action cameras have a lens with a wide field of view. Thus, you are likely to encounter some fish-eye distortion, especially if you mount it 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.
Increasingly, action cameras are equipped with two lenses for capturing 360-degree spherical video. These cameras serve a dual purpose and include editing apps that allow you to extract flat video, which you can creatively reframe and manipulate to guide a viewer through a scene, or simply output spherical video for display in a VR headset. Software tools allow you to manipulate video in interesting ways, as you can see in the Insta360 X5 clip above.
There are also outliers in the design department. The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 has a gimbal-stabilized camera. It's not rugged or waterproof, so it does not qualify as an action cam, but vloggers should take a look.
How to Mount an Action Cam
You should also consider your specific needs. Not all cameras are suitable for every sport, and certain designs are better suited to specific activities. Additionally, different shapes accommodate various mounting accessories and possibilities. Pay close attention to a camera's size if you want to capture a unique perspective, such as an under-skateboard shot.
GoPro's mount system is prevalent across the industry. Most action cameras include built-in or bundled mounts that match the integrated mounting clips on recent GoPros. DJI Osmo cameras use removable mounts and include both GoPro's clip and thumbscrew system, as well as 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. Magnetic mounts are becoming increasingly common; they are now found on GoPro, DJI, and Insta360 cameras. Many action cameras offer multiple mounting options.
(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.
The Best Editing Tools for Action Cameras
Longtime editors might be happy working with desktop editing software, but adventurers might want to cut footage on a smartphone or tablet. If mobile editing is important, look for a model with built-in Wi-Fi at a minimum.

Name-brand options offer better software support. DJI, GoPro, and Insta360 all offer full-featured smartphone apps for on-the-go editing, allowing you to upload videos directly to your social channels.
If you choose a brand that doesn't provide an editing app, you will need to bring your own. However, it's easy enough to use iMovie or Adobe Premiere Rush to cut clips together on your phone. If you need software for your desktop or laptop, check out our top video editing recommendations.











