Rating of the TOP 16 best action cameras in 2021: reviews, features, prices, top manufacturers

Action cameras - rating and review of models. Description, technical parameters, pros and cons of popular devices. Features of action cameras of different price ranges.

Action camera is a specialized equipment for digital video filming of outdoor activities and sporting events.

Such a device It weighs little, it is quite compact and protected from moisture and dirt..

With the help of special devices, it is possible to mount the device to various surfaces.

This review presents the best models of action cameras, describes their technical features, discusses the advantages and disadvantages.

Rating TOP 16 best action cameras

Place	Model	Price
Best 4K UHD Models
#1	Sony FDR-X3000R
#2	GoPro HERO8 Black Edition (CHDHX-801-RW)
#3	DJI Pocket 2
#4	DJI Osmo Pocket
#5	DJI Osmo Action
#6	GoPro HERO7 (CHDHX-701)
#7	Sony ZV-1
#8	GoPro HERO9 Black Edition (CHDHX-901-RW)
Top models with Full HD 1080p
#1	Sony HDR-AS300
#2	Sony HDR-AS300R
#3	Sony HDR-AS50
The best inexpensive models up to 4000 rubles.
#1	SJCAM SJ4000
#2	X-TRY XTC191 EMR UltraHD
#3	Rekam A310
#4	X-TRY XTC163
#5	DIGMA DiCam 300

Criteria for choosing an action camera

Keep in mind! When buying such a device, special attention should be paid to the following details:

Video resolution.
Professional devices allow you to get a picture in 4K resolution.
For amateur shooting, in principle, Full HD resolution (1920 × 1080 pixels) is sufficient.
Matrix.
Directly affects the quality of the footage.
It is determined not only by physical dimensions, but also by the presence of a noise reduction system, which is incredibly important for shooting in low light conditions.
Stabilization.
To shoot high-quality video, optical image stabilization is required.
Expensive action cameras are equipped with such a system, budget devices often have a digital image stabilizer.
interfaces.
HDMI, USB, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC expand the capabilities of the device, allowing you to connect remote control, “connect” with smartphones and computers, perform other tasks.
Autonomy.
Depends on battery capacity.
As a rule, an action camera allows you to shoot continuously from two to three hours of video in high quality.
Photography.
Almost all modern devices have this capability.
But the photo quality here is far from ideal, because action cameras are primarily designed for shooting video.
Peculiarities.
Special modes, touch screens, bitrate change, control from a smartphone, etc. increase the usability of the camera, but significantly affect its price.

Best 4K UHD Models

Devices with UHD 4K video resolution allow you to shoot professional-quality videos even in the most difficult conditions.

Rating of the TOP 8 best action cameras from various manufacturers in terms of price and quality ratio with 4K resolution.

Sony FDR-X3000R

Sony Action Camera The FDR-X3000R in a compact body made of high-quality materials is an incredibly convenient and powerful device for shooting in active conditions.

The device is equipped with a complete plastic holder and an adapter for holders of other types.

For even greater ease of use, the model is equipped with a remote control and a monochrome display.

With a frame rate of 240 units on this unit, the video length is 135 minutes.

The viewing angle of this gadget is 170 degrees. The device is equipped with an aquabox, wired and wireless communication ports.

Specifications:

video - UHD 4K (3840 × 2160);
matrix - CMOS, 8.2 MP;
interfaces - HDMI, USB, Wi-Fi, NFC, Bluetooth;
memory expansion - MS, micro SD;
features - remote control, photography mode, GPS;
battery life - 2.35 hours;
dimensions (W ? H ? D) and weight - 83? 47? 29 mm, 114 g;

Advantages

convenient external remote control with full functionality;
recording light indication;
manual setting of all main modes;
the ability to select a bitrate, many formats;
quality stabilization.

Flaws

noise in low light conditions;
poor recording quality from a microphone;
unreliable remote control strap.

GoPro HERO8 Black Edition (CHDHX-801-RW)

GoPro action camera HERO8 Black Edition (CHDHX-801-RW), as a new version of the famous predecessor, will delight users with the innovative Hyper Smooth 2.0 stabilization system.

The latter compensates for shaking during fast movement with automatic horizon line alignment.

The device is also equipped with a multimedia unit with a directional microphone and a set of up-to-date interfaces.

The device menu allows you to choose the most suitable focal length, use the Super View mode for maximum frame coverage and the fisheye effect, Linear technology with zero geometric distortion, and activate other functions.

Specifications:

video - UHD 4K (3840 × 2160);
matrix - CMOS, 12 MP;
interfaces - HDMI, USB, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth;
memory expansion - micro SD;
features - touch screen, sports shooting, photography mode, GPS, voice control;
battery life - 0.5 h;
dimensions (W ? H ? D) and weight - 66? 49? 28 mm, 103 g.

Advantages

excellent image stabilization;
high quality video;
the ability to create many modes in the form of presets;
waterproof.

Flaws

not the best ergonomics;
high price;
poor set.

DJI Pocket 2

The DJI Pocket 2 is an incredibly compact pocket camera that allows users to capture memorable moments in high-quality photos and stabilized video.

The device allows you to get an ultra-clear picture, while the three-axis stabilizer will help to avoid blur and interference.

Built-in HDR enhances video quality, while 8x zoom captures the finest details.

Wi-Fi and Bluetooth modules on board provide communication with other devices, make it possible to share photos and videos with other people.

The powerful lithium-polymer battery provides up to 140 minutes of battery life.

Specifications:

video - UHD 4K (3840 × 2160);
matrix - CMOS, 16 MP;
interfaces - USB, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth;
memory expansion - SDHC, SDXC;
features - touch screen, photography mode;
battery life - 2.2 hours;
dimensions (W ? H ? D) and weight - 38? 125? 30 mm, 117 g.

Advantages

compact dimensions;
excellent quality of shooting in 4K;
power bank option when connecting a smartphone;
convenient built-in application;
high quality color touch screen.

Flaws

heating when working at maximum settings;
the camera is not fixed after turning off.

DJI Osmo Pocket

Equipped with a comfortable grip and mechanical image stabilization, the DJI Osmo Pocket lets you capture cinematic-quality video in the toughest conditions.

Powerful optics and an impressive matrix will capture bright shots even in low light conditions.

4K resolution and 60 frames per second make it possible to get smooth videos with excellent detail.

The action camera offers a variety of shooting modes such as focusing on the face, tracking moving objects, nine-frame panorama, interval shooting, long exposure and much more.

Specifications:

video - UHD 4K (3840 × 2160);
matrix - CMOS, 12 MP;
interfaces - USB;
memory expansion - micro SD;
features - display, photography mode;
battery life - 2.2 hours;
dimensions (W ? H ? D) and weight - 29? 122? 37 mm, 116 g.

Advantages

compact dimensions;
Ease of use;
high build quality;
excellent shooting quality.

Flaws

poor sound recording quality;
lack of a strap on the camera itself (the included strap is used for the case);
lack of zoom.

DJI Osmo Action

The DJI Osmo Action action camera, made in a stylish case made of modern high-quality materials, allows you to shoot moving objects without any distortion.

The device is equipped with a system of protection against mechanical damage, moisture, deformation when dropped from a height of 1.5 meters.

The device can work in eightfold slowdown mode, it is equipped with a removable lens glass and can be controlled by voice.

The Snap Shot button allows you to turn on the device and start recording within two seconds, easy switching between modes is available through the use of the quick start key.

Specifications:

video - UHD 4K (3840 × 2160);
matrix - CMOS, 12 MP;
interfaces - USB, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth;
memory expansion - micro SD;
features - display, photography mode, voice control;
battery life - 2.3 hours;
dimensions (W ? H ? D) and weight - 65? 42? 35 mm, 124 g.

Advantages

Ease of use;
high-quality stabilization;
capacious battery;
stable work;
natural colors;
the presence of a programmable button.

Flaws

noise during evening shooting;
there is no way to change the viewing angle;
does not show the battery percentage (only when turned on).

GoPro HERO7 (CHDHX-701)

The GoPro HERO7 (CHDHX-701), a professional action camera that shoots 4K video in extreme conditions, elevates cinematography and directing to a level never seen before.

Despite the professional purpose, mastering the control of the device is quite simple.

The main touch and auxiliary front displays, a convenient and understandable settings menu and a quick view of important information, voice control will help the user with this.

Powerful hardware components and a built-in image stabilization system will take care of the high quality of the videos, and the waterproof case will protect the device from moisture even at a depth of 10 meters.

Specifications:

video - UHD 4K (3840 × 2160);
matrix - CMOS, 12 MP;
interfaces - HDMI, USB, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth;
memory expansion - micro SD;
features - touch screen, photo mode, GPS, voice control;
battery life - 1.5 hours;
dimensions (W ? H ? D) and weight - 62? 45? 33 mm, 116 g.

Advantages

excellent picture quality;
excellent stabilization;
convenient manual settings;
water resistance;
clear voice control.

Flaws

does not connect to all phones via Wi-Fi;
high price;
does not behave well at low temperatures.

Sony ZV-1

The lightweight and compact Sony ZV-1 camera, combined with powerful features, is designed for video recording and is aimed at vloggers and athletes.

The built-in Exmor RS sensor, ZEISS lens and modern focusing system allow you to realize the bokeh effect (blurring the background) with the selection of the object against the general background, fixing and tracking the object with high accuracy and speed, high resolution and low image noise.

The touchscreen, side-opening display makes shooting easy, while advanced features let you unleash your creative vision.

Specifications:

video - UHD 4K (3840 × 2160) m;
matrix - CMOS, 20.1 MP;
interfaces - HDMI, USB, Wi-Fi, NFC, Bluetooth;
memory expansion - SDHC, SDXC, MS;
features - touch screen, photography mode;
battery life - 1.15 hours;
dimensions (W ? H ? D) and weight - 106? 44? 60 mm, 267 g.

Advantages

the camera is very compact and convenient;
the display opens to the side and rotates;
good stabilization;
ultra-fast focusing;
effective background blur.

Flaws

inconvenient menu;
low autonomy;
no headphone jack.

GoPro HERO9 Black Edition (CHDHX-901-RW)

Capturing ultra HD video, the GoPro HERO9 Black Edition (CHDHX-901-RW) delivers superbly detailed footage.

The camera supports video recording in 4K, 2.7K, 1440p and 1080p. The device allows you to broadcast what is happening live.

Image Stabilizer Hyper Smooth 3.0 guarantees smooth movement even in difficult conditions.

Also available - support for the horizon leveling option, Time Warp 3.0 mode for spectacular time-lapse videos, a front screen, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth modules.

Voice control available.

Specifications:

video - UHD 4K (3840 × 2160);
matrix - CMOS, 23.6 MP;
interfaces - USB, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth;
memory expansion - micro SD;
features - touch screen, webcam function, photo mode, voice control;
battery life - 1.1 h;
dimensions (W ? H ? D) and weight - 71? 55? 34 mm, 158 g.

Advantages

interchangeable lens;
many shooting modes;
long battery life;
excellent video quality;
convenient voice control.

Flaws

large dimensions;
high price tag;
The touch screen is a little sluggish.

Top models with Full HD 1080p

Full HD Cameras ideal for covering sporting events and vlogging on various topics.

Review of the best action cameras with Full HD resolution according to customer reviews and ratings.

Sony HDR-AS300

The compact action camera Sony HDR-AS300 in a stylish and compact body made of high-quality materials allows you to capture the most interesting adventures and sports feats.

The device is equipped with high-end optics, it is able to record video in the best quality with a bright detailed picture and realistic colors.

The wireless communication implemented in the device allows you to quickly save the footage to an external device.

The gadget is reliably protected from external influences - it is not afraid of dust, moisture and diving (in a special box included in the kit) to a depth of up to 60 meters for half an hour.

Specifications:

video - Full HD (1920 × 1080);
matrix - CMOS, 8.2 MP;
interfaces - HDMI, USB, Wi-Fi, NFC, Bluetooth;
memory expansion - micro SD, MS;
features - display, photography mode, GPS;
battery life - 2.55 hours;
dimensions (W ? H ? D) and weight - 83? 47? 29 mm, 109 g

Advantages

excellent stabilization;
good sound quality;
high speed of work;
excellent shooting quality.

Flaws

high price;
meager equipment;
no lens cap.

Sony HDR-AS300R

With the Sony HDR-AS300R camera, users will be able to capture breathtaking high-quality videos without any shaking, even when shaken heavily.

Such powerful stabilization is achieved thanks to the advanced Balanced Optical Steady Shot system.

The case of the device is reliably protected from dust and moisture, and when using the complete aquabox, shooting underwater at a depth of up to 60 meters is permissible.

The Live View Remote Control enhances the comfort of using the camera. The accessory can be attached to the wrist or used separately, fixed with additional fasteners.

Specifications:

video - Full HD (1920 × 1080);
matrix - CMOS, 8.2 MP;
interfaces - HDMI, USB, Wi-Fi, NFC, Bluetooth;
memory expansion - micro SD, MS;
features - display, photography mode, remote control, GPS;
battery life - 2.55 hours;
dimensions (W ? H ? D) and weight - 83? 47? 29 mm, 109 g

Advantages

control panel included;
useful viewfinder function;
the ability to switch the "+" and "-" keys to the zoom mode;
price-quality ratio.

Flaws

long synchronization of the remote control with the camera;
not the most powerful battery;
small screen.

Sony HDR-AS50

Equipped with an Exmor sensor, BIONZ X processor and ZEISS optics, the Sony HDR-AS50 action camera delivers incredibly clear and high-contrast footage in any environment.

The device supports manual setting of exposure parameters, white balance, color correction for a variety of artistic effects.

Various viewing angles are available, from standard to wide-angle optics.

In HD video mode, you can increase the frame rate up to 120 frames per second.

The presence of Wi-Fi allows you to use an optional remote control or a smartphone with the Play Memories app for more convenient control and settings.

Specifications:

video - Full HD (1920 × 1080);
matrix - CMOS, 11.1 MP;
interfaces - USB;
memory expansion - micro SD;
features - display, photography mode;
battery life - 2.35 hours;
dimensions (W ? H ? D) and weight - 83? 47? 24 mm, 58 g

Advantages

convenient and simple menu;
good shooting quality;
excellent image stabilization;
clear sound (without aquabox) with noise reduction.

Flaws

impressive price tag;
No remote control strap included.

The best inexpensive models up to 4000 rubles.

Budget devices are not distinguished by the highest video quality, but it is not a pity to use them in the most extreme conditions.

SJCAM SJ4000

Convenient and easy to use, the SJCAM SJ4000 is the ideal camera for outdoor activities, sports and extreme adventures.

The device is securely attached to the arm, bike, surfboard. The included aquabox allows you to shoot underwater.

With Full HD video quality, the frame rate reaches 30 frames per second, with HD quality, the parameter increases to 60 frames per second.

A capacious 900 mAh battery allows you to work with the camera for more than an hour. Autonomy can be increased by enabling automatic display shutdown.

Specifications:

video - Full HD (1920 × 1080);
matrix - CMOS, 3 MP;
interfaces - HDMI, USB;
memory expansion - micro SD;
features - display, photography mode;
battery life - 1.3 hours;
dimensions (W ? H ? D) and weight - 59? 41? 29 mm, 44 g.

Advantages

democratic price;
a large number of fasteners included;
the presence of a screen;
built-in timelapse;
light weight.

Flaws

Poor photo quality
poor sound quality;
no stabilizer.

X-TRY XTC191 EMR UltraHD

The X-TRY XTC191 EMR UltraHD model is a small and lightweight device with an Allwinner V3 video processor, an Omni Vision OV4689 sensor and a 170-degree wide-angle lens for maximum quality.

Video resolution here corresponds to 16 MPx. The number of frames in Full HD mode is 60 fps, with HD resolution, the value reaches 120 fps.

Many photo modes - auto, multi, loop shooting, single shot - allow you to take high-quality static shots.

The built-in battery allows you to record videos up to 90 minutes long. A special container in the kit makes it possible to shoot underwater at a depth of up to 30 meters.

Specifications:

video - UHD 4K (3840 × 2160);
matrix - CMOS, 8 MP;
interfaces - HDMI, USB, Wi-Fi;
memory expansion - micro SD;
features - display, photography mode, remote control;
battery life - 1.3 hours;
dimensions (W ? H ? D) and weight - 59? 41? 30 mm, 58 g.

Advantages

good price / quality ratio;
excellent picture;
availability of Wi-Fi;
ergonomics at the level.

Flaws

poor equipment;
no image stabilization;
bad audio quality.

Rekam A310

The action camera Rekam A310, presented in a minimalist case with a 2-inch display for viewing multimedia content, comes with a special box that allows the camera to be submerged to a depth of 30 meters.

The basic equipment is also represented by a USB cable for charging and data transfer, a cover, safety fasteners, a set of straps, an adapter for attaching the device to a tripod, a set of fasteners, including an adapter for motorcycles and bicycles.

The camera is equipped with a 900 mAh battery that allows you to shoot videos up to 2.5 hours long.

USB and HDMI interfaces, as well as a slot for a micro SD card up to 64 GB expand the capabilities of the device.

Specifications:

video - UHD 4K (3840 × 2160);
matrix - CMOS, 8 MP;
interfaces - HDMI, USB;
memory expansion - micro SD;
features - display, photography mode;
battery life - 2.5 hours;
dimensions (W ? H ? D) and weight - 59? 41? 29 mm, 61 g

Advantages

luxury equipment;
high quality video;
capacious battery;
low price.

Flaws

no stabilization;
when working in boxing, it can get warm.

X-TRY XTC163

The X-TRY XTC163 camera with two batteries, a waterproof transparent case and a set of mounts for additional accessories, will create impressive video footage up to 4K resolution.

The camera is equipped with an IMX179 sensor, a lens with a wide viewing angle and a built-in Wi-Fi module.

Content is stored using a micro SD memory card.

Ease of operation is enhanced by four intuitive buttons and a color LCD display.

The rechargeable battery allows you to shoot for an hour and a half in continuous mode. Using an additional battery doubles the battery life of the device.

Specifications:

video - UHD 4K (3840 × 2160);
matrix - CMOS, 8 MP;
interfaces - HDMI, USB, Wi-Fi;
memory expansion - micro SD;
features - display, photography mode;
battery life - 1.5 hours;
dimensions (W ? H ? D) and weight - 59? 41? 30 mm, 60 g.

Advantages

affordable price tag;
wireless connection to a smartphone;
availability of a spare battery;
wide range of settings.

Flaws

not the best video quality;
lack of internal memory;
It is not possible to charge the camera without removing it from the aquabox.

DIGMA DiCam 300

The compact model DIGMA DiCam 300 weighing 56 grams, designed for outdoor enthusiasts, will allow you to save the most vivid moments of sports events and outdoor activities.

The maximum recording resolution here is 3840 ? 2160 pixels in accordance with the 4K standard.

The device supports Wi-Fi and HDMI interfaces. The gadget is equipped with a bike handlebar and helmet mount.

The user gets the opportunity to shoot from different angles, leaving his hands completely free.

Diving enthusiasts can use the complete aqua box.

Specifications:

video - UHD 4K (3840 × 2160);
matrix - CMOS, 8 MP;
interfaces - HDMI, Wi-Fi;
memory expansion - micro SD;
features - display, photography mode;
battery life - 1 hour;
dimensions (W ? H ? D) and weight - 59? 41? 30 mm, 56 g.

Advantages

democratic price;
good basic kit
the ability to use as a registrar;
good video recording quality.

Flaws

faint sound;
fast battery drain.

Reviews

Customer Reviews

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Conclusion

Action camera is a specialized gadget for shooting video during outdoor activities or sports.
When choosing devices needed pay attention to resolution, matrix parameters, stabilization, interfaces and autonomy.
High-definition video devices let you capture professional-quality content, budget solutions are suitable for extreme conditions.

Useful video

This video provides an overview of the best action cameras:

Reviews Ratings

12 Comments

Vadim He speaks

This is not a mass device, and therefore, when choosing, you must be guided strictly by your needs and clearly understand why you are making this purchase. For example, resolution is extremely important to me, but at the same time, I am not ready to overpay, because I am sure that soon the price of gadgets will fall, and even more modern models will come to the market. At the moment I have a Rekam A310 in use, and everything suits me ...

Anthony He speaks

I bought a Sony FDR-X3000R action camera in order to blog. I often go to nature: mountains, forest, sea. The criteria for choosing a camera were the following characteristics: compactness, image fixation, simplicity, high-quality housing. I found all this in the Sony FDR-X3000R camera.But it is more expensive than its classmates of other brands. I chose in a white case, immediately purchased a tripod. There is a convenient remote control, work via bluetooth and wi-fi. I didn't regret the purchase one bit.

Trickster C He speaks

Very interesting article. Looking for an action camera for my vlog. But there is a question. Does the listed action cameras have a night mode? I need a camera for shooting at night.

1. Igor Zubarev He speaks
  
  Action cameras cannot boast of good shooting at night, most likely additional lighting is needed.
  
az09289 He speaks

My husband and I have long wanted to buy an action camera, because it is small, very comfortable and easy to attach. And we also love to travel and capture every moment of our lives). I advise people to buy it for sure

Denis He speaks

Action camera Sony ZV-1 was given to me by friends for another celebration in honor of my birthday. I can say that this model combines easy-to-use functionality and modern image processing technologies. It's easy to shoot beautiful and interesting videos with the ZV-1. It features a grip on the body, a recording indicator, and a vari-angle LCD screen for easy selfie shooting. A directional three-capsule microphone with a windscreen delivers clear, noise-free sound. In a word, cool stuff!

Alexei He speaks

I liked the Sony HDR-AS50 action camera model. It is equipped with everything necessary to ensure that, in any situation, the frames are extremely clear and contrasting. I'm quite happy with manual exposure settings, as well as color adjustments.Different viewing angles are also welcome. It is also convenient that there is Wi-Fi. Well, we can not fail to note the convenient menu, clear sound, as well as excellent image stabilization.

Regina He speaks

Thank you very much for this article. I have finally found what matters most to me. As a girl, I didn’t really understand this, but now I understand everything. You have covered the most important topics. Now I want to buy Sony HDR-As50. Thank you very much again

Daria He speaks

The article seemed extremely useful to me, because I looked at these cameras with completely different eyes. Previously, it was a dark forest for me, but now I see that this is a unique opportunity to capture the moment and extend it, because it will be recorded. I liked the GoPro Hero 8 for its compactness and characteristics, so that you can speed up the video and get high-quality results at the same time. Thanks

Julia He speaks

I bought it for amateur filming under water and I can immediately say that I was pleasantly surprised, the picture is clear, bright, the assembly of the camera and the aqua-box is strong, of high quality, the buttons are pressed easily, they do not stick. It is possible to connect to a smartphone via Wi-Fi, which is good news. An affordable action camera with a Russified menu and a high resolution. It is comfortable to hold in your hand.

Natasha K He speaks

A week ago, my husband and I decided to buy a camera, because we often travel, we want to capture all these moments. But neither I nor my husband are a complete zero in understanding such gadgets. Thank you for the article, we already know approximately which one we will purchase !!

Anna Mitrofanova He speaks

My 15 year old child asks us for an action camera. Yes, not any there, but the cool one itself. But I think it's not worth overpaying for a camera for an amateur teenager.We need a device that weighs little, is quite compact and protected from moisture and dirt. I studied your rating, considered the advantages and disadvantages, compared the price. And I opted for the Sony HDR-AS50 action camera. It has crisp sound, good picture quality, and is reasonably priced.