The best action camera 2021

The best action camera 2021 : 9 models for the GoPro generation

Are you looking for the best possible action camera for yourself? You have arrived at the right place then. Whether you missed GoPro or some less expensive option, we have tested all the latest models and based on these we have listed below.

Action cameras are your friend if you enjoy cycling, surfing or free fall and want to record your performance for others to watch. Indeed, the best models capture crystal-clear 4K video and feature image stabilization for the worst wobbles. In addition, many are resistant to vibration and are waterproof, so they can withstand even difficult conditions.

In addition to high-quality and stable video, the best action cameras today also offer a comprehensive range of smart features and extensive shooting modes to capture cinematic shots. On the best models, the frame rate rises up to 240 frames, producing silky soft slow-motion shots or spectacular time-lapse shots.

In addition, many models are easy to connect to smartphones where they can be quickly edited and through which videos can be shared or streamed to sometime. Models like the GoPro Max and Insta360 One R can shoot videos up to 360 degrees, so no moment is missed. These can then be adapted into either a traditional video or enjoy the experience with a virtual device.

However, there are a few things to keep in mind when choosing the right action camera. Your own budget is paramount, but you should also check, among other things, whether their mics are protected from the wind. In this case, you can record your own vlog videos regardless of the shooting situation. In addition, the models on the market vary in size and shape, which is also worth considering.

The buying guide below covers our selection of the best action cameras for a variety of price ranges and usage needs. Our current favorite is the GoPro Hero 9 Black, which became the most versatile action camera ever with the latest firmware update. However, those looking for a cheaper one should get acquainted with the company's previous models.

Choose the best camera for you

The supply of cameras has shrunk in recent years - fewer new models are coming, and few new products will remain on store shelves longer before a new version is launched. One would think that the choice would thus be even easier, but the declining number of models has led to a situation where only a few camera types dominate the whole market. The features are similar in many, even if the manufacturer is different. Image quality, which is the most important criterion for most buyers when choosing a new camera, is better than good in almost all cameras sold today. This is especially true for SLRs, both mirrorless and mirrorless, which, regardless of the manufacturer, offer such good image quality that a highly trained eye is required to notice qualitative differences. Thus, other features of the cameras play a more important role. How well does autofocus work? Can the camera maintain a high shutter speed for two seconds or two minutes? Is the device resistant to water and dust? Is a bright telephoto lens available for the camera? Does the video work well? And so on. The easiest way is to read the tests and find out if there is a camera that is best suited for your own use. A photographer who crawls among the undergrowth to capture immortal moments of nature needs quite different qualities than parents who want to photograph their offspring. The best camera depends very much on your own needs. Many needs can be met with a cell phone camera, but they still have their limitations that make many end up buying a decent camera. The right camera still offers better image quality and more options. Before we get to the best cameras of the year, let’s go through a few more basic things about choosing the right device.

The Best Action Cameras 2021:

1. GoPro Hero 9 Black
2. Insta360 One R 1-Inch Edition
3. GoPro Hero 8 Black
4. GoPro Hero 7 Black
5. DJI Osmo Action
6. Insta360 One R
7. GoPro Max
8. GoPro Hero 7 Silver
9. Sony RX0 II

1. GoPro Hero 9 Black

GoPro’s latest flagship model is the most versatile action camera ever made and capable of recording 5K video. Like the DJI Osmo Action at the bottom of the list, it has a color display on the front that makes it easier to compose shots. A larger battery, in turn, extends service life, while new apps like HindSight help record unexpected events that happened 15 to 30 seconds ago. The detail and sharpness are excellent in 5K shooting mode and the front display is convenient. So why isn’t this the number one choice on our list? There are still a few shortcomings here, such as touch screen problems on the back and unreliable auto exposure. The Hero 8 Black is also better priced if you don’t miss 5K video or the front screen. If, on the other hand, you want the most capable option, then this is your choice.

SPECIFICATIONS

  • • Weight: 158 g
  • • Water resistance: 10 m
  • • 4K video recording: 60 fps
  • • 1080 video recording: 240 fps
  • • 720 video recording: 240 fps
  • • Still image resolution: 20 MP
  • • Battery: 1,720 mAh

GoPro HERO9 Black - Waterproof Action Camera with Front LCD and Touch Rear Screens, 5K HD Video, 20MP Photos, 1080p Live Streaming, Stabilization + Sandisk 64GB Card and Extra BatteryGoPro HERO9 Black - Waterproof Action Camera with Front LCD and Touch Rear Screens, 5K HD Video, 20MP Photos, 1080p Live Streaming, Stabilization + Sandisk 64GB Card and Extra Battery
Pros
  • 5K video recording captures detail
  • Front display for vlogging
  • Improved battery life
Cons
  • The rear display is not very responsive
  • Slight improvements to 4K video

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2. Insta360 One R 1-inch edition

The Insta360 One R has already been a tough competitor to the GoPro Hero series, but with a new inch-sized sensor, it’s even more capable. Thanks to the larger sensor, the camera can take brighter, cleaner and thus more detailed images in low light conditions, in addition to which its dynamic range is better than any other action camera. Raw images are compelling, plus the videos are sharp and expressive with the camera capable of up to 5.23K / 25p and 4K / 60p videos. However, the performance of the GoPro models is still better, which is why the Insta360 One R still has flicker and other artifacts at the most lush areas. One R is also exhausted by GoPro's simplicity when shooting, and the slow software lasts forever when taking videos elsewhere. Despite these, the Insta360 One R captures some of the best images and video from action cameras, which are also more stable thanks to the indentations made in the inch cell.

SPECIFICATIONS

  • • Weight: 158.2 g
  • • Water resistance: 5 m
  • • 5.3K video: up to 30 fps
  • • 4K video: up to 60 fps
  • • 1080p video: up to 120 fps
  • • Image resolution: 19 MP
  • • Battery: 1,190 mAh

Insta360 ONE R 1-Inch Edition Co-Engineered with Leica – 5.3K 30fps Action Camera with 1-Inch Sensor, 4K 60fps, Stabilization, IPX8 Waterproof, 19MPInsta360 ONE R 1-Inch Edition Co-Engineered with Leica – 5.3K 30fps Action Camera with 1-Inch Sensor, 4K 60fps, Stabilization, IPX8 Waterproof, 19MP
Pros
  • The large sensor guarantees good quality images
  • An excellent option in dark conditions
Cons
  • Performance deficiencies
  • Slow software

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3. GoPro Hero 8 Black

GoPro Hero 8 Black is easy to use, offers a lot of new features and includes the best possible image stabilization technology. The most significant innovation is live streaming, which allows you to stream your own adventures in real time to Facebook, if you wish. In addition, GoPro has simplified its application to make it even easier to edit and share videos. Mounting the camera is easier than before, as a so-called fixed mounting arm has been added to the bottom of the camera. All in all, this action camera is a real find for both beginners and professionals.

SPECIFICATIONS

  • • Weight: 126 g
  • • Waterproof: up to 10 m
  • • 4K video recording: up to 60 fps
  • • 1080p video recording: up to 240 fps
  • • 720p video recording: up to 240 fps
  • • Photo resolution: 12 MP
  • • Battery capacity: 1220 mAh

GoPro HERO8 Black Waterproof Action Camera with Touch Screen 4K Ultra HD Video 12MP Photos 1080p Live with Accessory Bundle - 1 Additional GoPro USA Batteries + PNY 64GB U3 microSDHC CardGoPro HERO8 Black Waterproof Action Camera with Touch Screen 4K Ultra HD Video 12MP Photos 1080p Live with Accessory Bundle - 1 Additional GoPro USA Batteries + PNY 64GB U3 microSDHC Card
Pros
  • Best-in-class digital stabilization
  • Time-saving Capture Presets settings
  • Fixed frame mounting arm
Cons
  • Image quality is not convincing enough
  • Weak in twilight shooting

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4. GoPro Hero 7 Black

The GoPro Hero7 Black is very similar to its predecessor, the Hero 6 Black, but offers a more user-friendly interface and a few nice upgrades. The most significant addition is the brand new HyperSmooth video image stabilizer, which makes the recording impression smooth. Another new feature is TimeWarp, which combines traditional time-delay shooting with HyperSmooth to result in stabilized hyperlapse video. Like its predecessor, the Hero7 Black records ultra-sharp 4K video at 60 frames per second. Although Hero8 Black recently supplanted Hero7 Black, the latter is undoubtedly still one of the best action cameras.

SPECIFICATIONS

  • • Weight: 118 g
  • • Waterproof: up to 10 m
  • • 4K video recording: up to 60 fps
  • • Full HD video recording: 240 fps
  • • 720p video recording: 240fps
  • • Photo resolution: 12 MP
  • • Battery life: 1-3 hours

GoPro HERO7 Black + Extra Battery - E-Commerce Packaging - Waterproof Digital Action Camera with Touch Screen 4K HD Video 12MP Photos Live Streaming StabilizationGoPro HERO7 Black + Extra Battery - E-Commerce Packaging - Waterproof Digital Action Camera with Touch Screen 4K HD Video 12MP Photos Live Streaming Stabilization
Pros
  • Great 4K video recording
  • Powerful HyperSmooth image stabilization
Cons
  • Problems with voice commands
  • The screen does not always respond to touch

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5. DJI Osmo Action

Above all, the Chinese DJI is known as one of the best drone manufacturers on the market, but its action cameras and gymnals, such as the Osmo Mobile Pocket , are also first-class.
DJI Osmo Action's color front display makes it easier to crop vlog videos and stills, for example. Thanks to RockSteady image stabilization, the image is smooth and vibration-free, even when shooting in uneven terrain. Unfortunately, motion stabilization does not work when shooting HDR videos, and the camera cannot shoot live streams. The camera is also waterproof to a depth of 11 meters and includes voice control, 8x slow motion video recording and built-in wifi and bluetooth connections. This is without a doubt the strongest challenger for GoPro’s flagship model Hero7 Black - and there’s no price appeal either.

SPECIFICATIONS

  • • Weight: 124 g
  • • Waterproof: up to 11 m
  • • 4K video: 60 fps
  • • 1080p video recording: 240 fps
  • • 720p video recording: 240fps
  • • Still image resolution: 12 MP
  • • Battery life: 2 hours 15 minutes

DJI Osmo Action - 4K Action Cam 12MP Digital Camera with 2 Displays 36ft Underwater Waterproof WiFi HDR Video 145° Angle, BlackDJI Osmo Action - 4K Action Cam 12MP Digital Camera with 2 Displays 36ft Underwater Waterproof WiFi HDR Video 145° Angle, Black
Pros
  • Colored front display
  • Good motion stabilization
  • Good color saturation
Cons
  • No motion stabilization in HDR video
  • No live streaming

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6. Insta360 One R

Where the GoPro Hero 8 Black offers a lot of handy accessories, the Insta360 One R itself is a modular action camera consisting of a battery base, a body module and a camera module. In practice, the modular design means that you can switch between a 4K action camera and a 360-degree camera and a 1-inch sensor, depending on the shooting situation. The latter is not included in the basic package. Three cameras in one package sounds like a promise whose true functionality is easy to doubt. Surprisingly, the whole is useful in many ways. Once all the modules are in place, the finished camera is only slightly larger than the Hero Black 8 and feels surprisingly sturdy. However, in order for the camera to withstand water, you need a protective cover. Image quality is sharp and relatively stable and also detailed in dark areas. In other areas, however, the Insta360 One R does not perform as well. The image processing is unmatched by the GoPro Hero 8 Black, and the 1.3-inch screen is too small to crop 16: 9 images. It’s still good to keep in mind that this dual-camera pack costs less than, for example, the GoPro Max alone. The Insta360 One R is a flexible and well-executed modular camera that produces great 4K video and 360 images. Possible software updates may also resolve image processing issues. In this case, you should keep this camera in mind if you are looking for an action camera that produces both 360 images and video material.

SPECIFICATIONS

  • • Weight: 130.5 g
  • • Waterproof: up to 5 m (with protective cover)
  • • 5.7K video: 30 fps
  • • 4K: 30 fps
  • • 1080: 200 fps
  • • Photo resolution: 18.5 MP
  • • Battery: 1150 mAh

Insta360 ONE R Action Camera Twin Edition (360 Camera + 4K Wide Angle), Starter Bundle, Dual Lens Sports Video Stabilization Waterproof, with Extra Battery and Extreme SD CardInsta360 ONE R Action Camera Twin Edition (360 Camera + 4K Wide Angle), Starter Bundle, Dual Lens Sports Video Stabilization Waterproof, with Extra Battery and Extreme SD Card
Pros
  • The modular design brings versatility
  • Stable image quality for 4K videos and 360-degree images
Cons
  • Very small screen
  • Significant errors when starting the device

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7. GoPro Max

If you want to capture the highest quality traditional action camera catalog (non-360 degree), GoPro Hero 8 Black is still the best option. On the other hand, if you value good sound quality and want to re-crop the videos you shoot, you might want to consider GoPro Max. This GoPro’s most expensive action camera is equipped with two fisheye lenses, allowing it to capture 360-degree 5.6K videos. Captured videos can be retrofitted to the traditional 2D video format with OverCapture. Like the Hero 8 Black, the GoPro Max includes six built-in microphones, a TimeWarp feature, and built-in mounts that allow you to mount the camera without additional equipment. The weaknesses of the GoPro Max include poor 2D video quality (due to the image being edited in a fisheye format and poor resolution) and difficulties in low light conditions. Max is still the best water-resistant 360-degree camera action-at least until we have carried out the last of our test promising Insta360 One R for .

SPECIFICATIONS

  • • Weight: 163 g
  • • Waterproof: up to 5 m
  • • 360 degree 5.6K video: 30 fps
  • • 1440p 2D video: 60 fps
  • • Photo resolution: 16.6 MP
  • • Battery life: 108 minutes (1440p), 78 minutes (5.6K)

GoPro MAX — Waterproof 360 + Traditional Camera with Touch Screen Spherical 5.6K30 HD Video 16.6MP 360 Photos 1080p Live Streaming StabilizationGoPro MAX — Waterproof 360 + Traditional Camera with Touch Screen Spherical 5.6K30 HD Video 16.6MP 360 Photos 1080p Live Streaming Stabilization
Pros
  • Records 360-degree 5.6K video
  • Panoramic images
Cons
  • Low resolution for 2D videos
  • Not the best for twilight shooting

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8. GoPro Hero 7 Silver

While the Hero7 Black is by far the number one GoPron action camera in terms of features, the Hero7 Silver from the same manufacturer makes a difference in terms of value for money. Hero7 Silver doesn’t offer all the same tricks as its big siblings, but aggressive pricing makes it an attractive choice. The Hero7 Silver records stabilized 4K video, is waterproof to a depth of 10 meters and includes a convenient two-inch touch screen. Voice commands allow you to control almost all of the camera's main functions without lifting a finger. Hero7 Silver is a great choice, especially for those looking for a first action camera.

SPECIFICATIONS

  • • Weight: 118g
  • • Waterproof: up to 10 m
  • • 4K video recording: 30 fps
  • • 1080p video recording: 60 fps
  • • 720p video recording: 60 fps
  • • Photo resolution: 10 MP
  • • Battery life: 1-3 hours

GoPro HERO7 Silver + PNY Elite-X 32GB microSDHC Card Adapter-UHS-I, U3 - Waterproof Digital Action Camera with Touch Screen 4K HD Video 10MP Photos Live Streaming StabilizationGoPro HERO7 Silver + PNY Elite-X 32GB microSDHC Card Adapter-UHS-I, U3 - Waterproof Digital Action Camera with Touch Screen 4K HD Video 10MP Photos Live Streaming Stabilization
Pros
  • Easy to use
  • Delightful 4K video recording
Cons
  • Limited photography opportunities
  • The images easily show artifacts

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9. Sony RX0 II

The Sony RX0 II is both an action camera and a camera for traditional photography. This tiny second-generation camera, like Sony’s higher-end compact cameras, features a large one-inch sensor that produces 15.3 megapixel photos. The camera also features a state-of-the-art Zeiss Tessar T * 24mm f / 4 wide-angle lens. The RX0 II is not only extremely light but also resistant to compression and water. The camera records 4K video at 30 frames per second and Full HD video at 120 frames per second. Noteworthy features include Soft Skin Effect mode and advanced Eye AF. Sony has also managed to incorporate a convenient up-180-degree and 90-degree-down LCD display into its compact camera. The disadvantage of small size is the difficulty of use. Also, the high price is probably too much for the casual user. However, those looking for an action camera that records high-quality 4K video and is durable should not ignore this option.

SPECIFICATIONS

  • • Weight: 132 g
  • • Waterproof: up to 1 m
  • • 4K video recording: 30 fps
  • • 1080p video recording: 120 fps
  • • 720p video recording: 960 fps
  • • Photo resolution: 15.3 MP
  • • Battery life: About 2 hours

Sony RX0 II 1” (1.0-type) Sensor Ultra-Compact CameraSony RX0 II 1” (1.0-type) Sensor Ultra-Compact Camera
Pros
  • One-inch cell
  • Robust design
Cons
  • Expensive price
  • Narrow controls

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Check these things before buying a new camera

When you buy a new camera, you need to figure out many features and functions. We made a list of the most important things to consider. Feel free to first take a look at camera tests and product reviews, for example in the Digital Image Tool Guide , you will see what experienced professionals have said about the models that interest you.People’s camera needs are different, but there are a few basic things to at least pay attention to when considering stores.

1. Image sensor size

The size of the image sensor is the single technical factor that most affects image quality.The image sensor captures light, as the film did on analog cameras in decades ago.The cells of cheaper compact cameras and smartphones are smaller than the claw of a little dragonfly, while the cells of full-size cameras are the size of a large stamp, so it can collect much more light and image information.

2. Number of focus points

Some cameras have thousands of focus points, but whether they are 50 or 5,000 is not as essential as one might think in light of the numbers. The important thing is that they are evenly distributed over the image area so that the camera can focus even if the subject is at the edge or at an angle. Focus points usually fill a larger portion of the image area when shooting through the screen than when shooting through the optical viewfindr. Focusing is faster when shooting through the viewfinder.

3. Burst speed

Continuous shooting speed refers to how many frames per second the camera can take.For landscape and building photographers and portraits, this is not particularly important, but for sports and bird photographers, for example, it is a good thing if the burst speed is at least ten frames per second.

4. Battery life

The better the battery life, the better - then the risk of losing a good shooting situation in the event of a power outage is reduced. In practice, however, one charge gets more dry than promised in the operating instructions.The operating instructions usually describe a shooting method in which the camera is turned off and on often, and e.g. flash. Video recording, of course, consumes battery power briskly.If the indicated number of shots on a single charge is less than 400, we recommend purchasing a spare battery if there is a lot to shoot in one shooting trip.

5. ISO sensitivity

At high ISO values, you can shoot in low light without shaking the images and showing too much movement. As the ISO sensitivity is increased, the image signal from the cell is amplified, and at the same time the image noise is increased.Some cameras have the option of using six- or seven-digit ISO values, although this may not tell you much about how good or better bad results are obtained at the highest ISO sensitivities.However, a high maximum value can be an indication that medium values ​​such as ISO 25 600 or 51 200 still produce quite valid images.We do not usually exceed ISO 12,800 to ensure that the image quality is always good enough.

6. Display

Today, the size of a liquid crystal display (LCD) is usually 3 to 3.2 inches. Screen accuracy is at least as important. It should preferably have at least a million dots so that the image it reproduces does not pixelate.It’s also at least a good thing if the screen turns in different directions. This makes it much easier to shoot, for example, overhead or on the ground.

7. Ergonomics

You should try the camera at a store, if at all possible. Only then do you feel how it feels in your hands - even when you have a lens attached to it.At the same time, check how conveniently the main controls and buttons are positioned.

8. Resolution

Camera resolution was still a hot topic of discussion a few years ago, but today most cameras have a resolution of at least 12 megapixels, images are always repeated in detail unless printed on paper and enlarged to poster size.The 4K screen is equivalent to 8.3 megapixels, and the 17 megapixel image can already be magnified into a high-quality A3 poster without any worries. The high resolution also allows for severe cropping and partial enlargements.

9. Camera system

When purchasing a SLR camera, you should consider the composition of the included accessories such as a lens, flash unit, etc. - in relation to what you already have.Some systems include, for example, special lenses.It may also be that your old lenses are accessing your new camera through an adapter.

10. Weather protection

You should also consider whether you want a weatherproof model with joints that are all sealed so that water and dust cannot get in.Most cameras can withstand a small cloud of dust and morning fog, but if you want to shoot in heavy rain or at the seaside, you should get a fully weatherproof camera.Digital image number 10/2019 contains a large camera guide that brings together all the SLR cameras on the market.

11. The smart light tent guarantees perfect light and sharp images

With the digital photo tent, you get a nice little home studio that is also easy to take with you anywhere.The new light tent makes it easier than ever to photograph macro objects such as flowers and insects or food and goods that are to be sold over the internet.The uniform background of the light tent gives your images a professional look, and its LED lamps illuminate the images perfectly without shadows or reflections.

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