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The Best Action Cameras for 2026

If you want to capture outdoor sports or underwater excursions, you need a tough and portable action camera. I've been testing action cameras for more than a decade and am here to help you pick the best one.

 & Jim Fisher Principal Writer, Cameras

Our team tests, rates, and reviews more than 1,500 products each year to help you make better buying decisions and get more from technology.

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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.

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Deeper Dive: Our Top Tested Picks

  • DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro
    Best Action Camera Overall

    DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro

    4.5 Outstanding

    Pros & Cons

      • 10-bit 4K120 video
      • Class-leading battery life
      • Continuous recording without overheating
      • Extremely effective digital stabilization
      • Dual touch displays
      • Waterproof to 65.6 feet
      • Small, mountable design
      • Smartphones are better in dim light
      • App features not as strong as GoPro

    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
    Get It Now
  • Insta360 X5
    Credit: Craig Wilson
    Best 360 Degree Camera Overall

    Insta360 X5

    4.5 Outstanding

    Pros & Cons

      • Up to 8K video, 72MP stills capture
      • Large touch screen
      • Intuitive app and editing presets
      • Waterproof to 49 feet
      • Improved wind reduction from last gen
      • Lots of compatible accessories
      • Expensive
      • Learning curve to edit 360-degree videos

    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
    Get It Now
    Learn More Insta360 X5 Review
  • GoPro Hero12 Black
    Best Action Camera for Slow Motion

    GoPro Hero12 Black

    4.5 Outstanding

    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 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
    Get It Now
  • GoPro Max2
    Credit: Craig Wilson
    Most Durable 360 Camera

    GoPro Max2

    4.5 Outstanding

    Pros & Cons

      • Shoots 8K 360 video and 29MP stills
      • Supports 8-bit, 10-bit, and GP-Log profiles
      • 16:9 output at 4K
      • Rugged construction
      • Waterproof to 16 feet
      • User-replaceable lenses
      • Optional pro-level controls
      • Accessories add to cost
      • Automatic edits can be hit or miss
      • Some features require a subscription

    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
    Get It Now
    Learn More GoPro Max2 Review
  • Insta360 X3
    Best Affordable 360 Camera

    Insta360 X3

    4.0 Excellent

    Pros & Cons

      • 5.7K30 HDR video
      • Slim, waterproof build
      • Big touch screen with straightforward interface
      • Robust desktop and mobile editing tools
      • Loads of capture modes
      • Video must be processed before editing
      • A bit of a learning curve to grasp 360-degree editing
      • Mobile editing app limits resolution

    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
    Get It Now
    Learn More Insta360 X3 Review
  • DJI Osmo Action 4
    Best Budget-Friendly Action Camera

    DJI Osmo Action 4

    4.0 Excellent

    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 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
    Get It Now
  • Insta360 Go Ultra
    Best Wearable Action Camera

    Insta360 Go Ultra

    4.0 Excellent

    Pros & Cons

      • Stabilized 4K60 video recording
      • Converts between a wearable and a traditional action camera
      • Action Pod includes a flip-up touch screen
      • Waterproof to 33 feet without a case
      • Works with DJI Mic and Apple AirPods
      • About two hours of 4K60 recording on a full battery
      • 8-bit video encoding
      • Internal, non-replaceable battery
      • Pricier than larger action cams

    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
    Get It Now
  • GoPro Hero13 Black
    Best Action Camera for Conversion Lens Support

    GoPro Hero13 Black

    4.0 Excellent

    Pros & Cons

      • Superb digital video stabilization
      • 10-bit HDR HLG, GP-Log, and SDR profiles available
      • Continuous 5.3K60, 4K120, and 2.7K240 capture
      • Short slow-motion clips at up to 400fps
      • Dual displays
      • Rugged, waterproof chassis
      • Small enough to mount
      • New battery provides minor improvements
      • Accessory lenses and mounts add to cost
      • Rear screen is overdue for an upgrade

    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
  • Insta360 One RS
    Best Action Camera for Mixing 360 and 4K Footage

    Insta360 One RS

    3.5 Good

    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 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
    Get It Now
The Best Action Cameras for 2026

Compare Specs

Select Up To 3Select Up To 2
Our Pick
Rating
4.5 Outstanding
4.5 Outstanding
4.5 Outstanding
4.5 Outstanding
4.0 Excellent
4.0 Excellent
4.0 Excellent
4.0 Excellent
3.5 Good
4.5 Outstanding
4.5 Outstanding
4.5 Outstanding
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 inches4.90 by 1.81 by 1.50 inches2.0 by 2.8 by 1.3 inches2.74 by 2.52 by 1.92 inches1.8 by 4.5 by 1.3 inches1.7 by 2.8 by 1.3 inches1.9 by 2.8 by 1.3 inches2.0 by 2.8 by 1.3 inches1.9 by 2.8 by 1.3 inches1.7 by 2.8 by 1.3 inches4.90 by 1.81 by 1.50 inches2.0 by 2.8 by 1.3 inches
Weight
5.27.14.56.886.35.15.75.64.35.27.14.5
Type
Action Camera360-DegreeAction Camera360-Degree, Action Camera360-DegreeAction CameraAction CameraAction CameraAction CameraAction Camera360-DegreeAction Camera
Sensor Resolution
404827294810502748404827
Sensor Type
CMOSCMOSCMOSCMOSCMOSBSI CMOSCMOSCMOSCMOSCMOSCMOS
Sensor Size
Type 1/1.3Type 1/1.28Type 1/1.91/2.3-inchType 1/2Type 1/1.3Type 1/1.28Type 1/1.9Type 1/1.3Type 1/1.28Type 1/1.9
Lens Mount
Memory Card Slots
111111111111
Memory Card Format
microSDXCmicroSDXCmicroSDXCmicroSDmicroSDXCmicroSDXCmicroSDXCmicroSDXCmicroSDXCmicroSDXCmicroSDXCmicroSDXC
Battery Type
DJI Osmo 1,950mAhInsta360 Rechargeable Battery for X5 (2,400mAh)GoPro EnduroInsta360 1800mAh for X3InternalGoPro Enduro (1,900mAh)InternalDJI Osmo 1,950mAhInsta360 Rechargeable Battery for X5 (2,400mAh)GoPro Enduro
Minimum ISO
100100100100100100100100100100
Maximum ISO
512006400640032006400640064005120064006400
35mm Equivalent (Wide)
966.71114.396
35mm Equivalent (Telephoto)
Optical Zoom
Stabilization
DigitalDigitalDigitalDigitalDigitalDigitalDigitalDigitalDigital
Display Size
2.5 inches2.7 inches2.3 inches1.82 inches2.3 inches2 inches2.3 inches2.5 inches2.7 inches2.3 inches
Display Resolution
854400854400
Touch Screen
Viewfinder Type
Viewfinder Magnification
EVF Resolution
Connectivity
Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB-CBluetooth, USB-C, Wi-FiBluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB-CBluetooth, USB-C, Wi-FiBluetooth, USB-C, Wi-FiUSB-C, Bluetooth, Wi-FiWi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB-CWi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB-CBluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB-CWi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB-CBluetooth, USB-C, Wi-FiBluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB-C
Maximum Waterproof Depth
65.6493316335933331665.64933
Video Resolution
4K8K5.3K8K5.7K 360°4K4K5.3K4K, 5.7K 360°4K8K5.3K
HDMI Output
NoneNoneNoneNoneNoneNoneNoneNoneNoneNoneNone
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.

Mobile editing in the GoPro app
(Credit: GoPro/Jim Fisher)

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.

About Our Expert

Jim Fisher

Jim Fisher

Principal Writer, Cameras

My Experience

Images, and the devices that capture them, are my focus. I've covered cameras at PCMag for the past 14 years, which has given me a front row seat for the changeover from DSLRs to mirrorless cameras, the smartphone camera revolution, and the emergence of drones for aerial imaging. I have extensive experience with every major mirrorless and SLR system, and am also comfortable using point-and-shoot and action cameras. As a Part 107 Certified drone pilot, I’m licensed to fly unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) for commercial and editorial purposes, and am knowledgeable about federal rules and regulations regarding drones.

The Technology I Use

I use all of the major camera systems on a regular basis, swapping between Canon, Fujifilm, L-Mount, Micro Four Thirds, Nikon, and Sony systems. I still find time to use Leica M rangefinders and Pentax SLRs on occasion, too. I keep an iPhone 13 in my pocket for the rare occasions I'm not carrying a camera.

I'm not a brand-specific photographer. For product review photos, I swap between a Canon EOS R5 and a Sony a7R IV. I use Flashpoint and Godox TTL lights and Peak Design tripods, and I most often reach for a Think Tank or Peak Design backpack to carry equipment.

When it comes to computers, I'm an unapologetic Mac person and have been for the past 20 years. I write in Pages and use Numbers for spreadsheets. I currently swap between an Intel i9 MacBook Pro and an Apple Silicon Mac Studio for writing and use a calibrated BenQ 32.5-inch with the Studio for photo and video editing. I rely on a LaCie 6big RAID for media storage. I also keep a PC around for gaming, but please don't tell my Macs about it; they'll get jealous.

I split time between several different software apps depending on the type of editing I'm doing. For Raw image processing, Adobe Photoshop Lightroom Classic is my standard. I pair it with a LoupeDeck CT console to supplement my keyboard and trackpad, and I lean on RNI All Films 5 presets when I want to give an image a film look. I use Apple Final Cut Pro for video editing.

My first digital camera was the Canon PowerShot Elph S200, and my first DSLR was the Pentax *ist DL. I have a soft spot for antique film gear. I still use a 1950 vintage Rolleiflex Automat TLR and love trying mid-century Leica lenses on film and digital alike. I mainly use whatever's in front of me for review for digital snaps, but I pick up either my Leica M Typ 240 or Pentax K-3 III Monochrome when I want to step away from review work. In my downtime, I enjoy bird watching, reading, video games, and both good and bad movies, especially in the sci-fi and horror genres.

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