- 9.99/10 1. Editors choice: GoPro Hero8 Black Digital Action Camera
- 9.99/10 2. Premium pick: Insta360 One R Sports Video Adaptive Action Camera
- 8.00/10 3. Best value: VanTop Moment 3 4K Action Camera
- 9.00/10 4. GoPro MAX Waterproof 360
- 8.00/10 5. GoPro Hero7 Black
- 9.99/10 6. DJI Osmo Action Cam
- 9.00/10 7. AKASO EK7000 4K WIFI Sports Action Camera
- 8.60/10 8. GoPro Hero5 Black
- 8.50/10 9. Campark ACT74 Action Camera
- 8.40/10 10. GoPro Hero 7 Silver Waterproof Digital Action Camera and Sandisk Extreme
There are many reasons to buy a GoPro camera. There are just some places that you can’t—or shouldn’t—take your cell phone when you want photos or videos. For instance, you aren’t going to want to strap your fragile and expensive Smartphone to your chest while water skiing or repelling down a rocky mountainside. The best GoPro camera is an ideal choice to capture the action during adventurous activities and much more.
A GoPro, or GoPro-type action camera, is one of the most effective and cost-efficient cameras available today. They are tiny powerhouses of photo and video technologies inside a small but tough housing that can withstand impacts, water, extreme cold, and more.
The best GoPro camera is a good choice, not only for an active lifestyle but also for kids or young adults because of their highly durable build. It’s a great way for a budding photographer to safely experiment with many different types of action shots, footage, and editing techniques.
Most GoPro cameras offer a wide range of technologies, including 4K or panoramic video, wide-angle lenses, and such fun features as slow-motion, time-lapse, and photo burst technologies. These features are fun to use and allow you to never miss a moment of any action. You can play your finest moments again and again, slow them down, speed them up, store them to a micro SD card, or live-stream straight to social media. What’s more, because they are made for action footage, GoPro cameras have integrated stabilizing functions that allow for smooth, shake-free footage even during running, snowboarding, or other vigorous activities that would cause a shaking, jittering appearance in most typical camera footage. Many also have horizon-orienting features, so your footage is always aligned with the horizon even if the camera moves sideways during the exciting action.
The best GoPro camera is the perfect addition to any active lifestyle. It offers the best way to share and store your most exciting moments in any adventure so you can relive them repeatedly!
One of the best GoPro cameras from the name you trust most in action cameras is the GoPro Hero8 Black Digital Action Camera. This is the most recent camera in the Hero line and features a sleek, updated look and design improvements, including a simpler, folding-finger type base for faster mounting and a more easily accessible battery door for fast battery changes. It also can withstand twice the impact of older models, making this the best GoPro yet for toughness and durability even in extreme action situations.
The GoPro Hero8 Black Digital Action Camera delivers UHD 4K videos. It has advanced features such as intuitive touchscreen display, 15-command voice control recognition in many language options, and direct live-streaming to Facebook live, as well as options to stream to other social media platforms. This action camera also includes special functions such as face, smile, and scenery detection to ensure the perfect shots. You can use fantastic effects such as slow-motion and time-lapse functions, so you need never miss a moment. Also, enjoy live-burst still photos at 12MP resolution with HDR support. Best of all, the integrated HyperSmooth 2.0 video stabilization feature ensures that your videos are smooth and steady, without shakiness, even during intense live-action footage.
The GoPro Hero8 Black Digital Action Camera is waterproof up to 33 feet without a special waterproof housing or sleeve, so you can always take it where the action is, even during surfing, snorkeling, or water-skiing.
This GoPro bundle package includes the updated camera with a rechargeable battery, curved mount, mounting buckle, thumbscrew, and USB cable. It also includes an astonishing array of 50 handy accessories, including special mounts, straps, tripods, and much more, making this the best GoPro for everything you need in an all-in-one purchase.
- Bundle package including Hero8 camera, case, and 50 piece accessory kit
- UHD 4K Video with hypersmooth stabilizing feature
- 12MP still photos with HDR support
- Includes slo-mo, time-lapse, time-warp, live-burst, and night-lapse features
- Face detection, smile detection, and scenery detecting features
- Multi-language voice control with 15 command recognition
- Live stream recordings straight to social media
- Updated, super-sleek design with improved base, redesigned battery door for fast change-outs, and better impact resistance
- Accessory kit includes many pieces, but they are not top quality compared to camera quality
- Battery life needs improvement
The Insta360 One R Sports Video Adaptive Action Camera in the Twin Edition is one of the best GoPro type cameras for extensive options for use. This small, lightweight action camera packs in the technology to instantly transform on the go with a reversible lens from a 360-degree camera to a 4K wide-angle recorder with 60 frames per minute speeds to capture the most intense action. With the integrated FlowState technology and automatic horizon orienting, even the fastest action will be smooth, steady, and free of shaking. The combination of steadiness and super 5.7K resolution results in the most stunning action and scenery videos available from any action camera today.
The Insta360 has many technology bonus features such as a point-to-track system that works like an invisible selfie stick, which allows users to capture a third-person perspective and aerial angle shots in the 360-degree lens. Other functions allow users endless options such as bullet time 2.0 with smart speed ramp-up, timeshift feature with cinematic slow-motion options, and stable hyperlapse technology to speed things up. The voice command options and point-and-track algorithm keep your subject locked into center frame sight even with obstacles, making this the ideal way to keep the focus on your subject no matter how fast the action may be. With the Shot Lab, you can creatively edit your shots and videos through a wide range of templates and editing options. You can even amp up the color with Color Plus to add vibrancy and contrast to your footage and photos.
Nighttime images have never looked better thanks to Night Shot to capture clear, natural-looking photos after dark. The special Starlapse mode can be used to capture stunningly beautiful timelapse footage of the sky at night.
With all of these amazing features, as well as the inclusion of two lens types, battery base, lens cap, and mounting bracket, the Insta360 One R Sports Video Adaptive Action Camera is one of the best GoPro type cameras available today.
- Transforms while on the go from 360 action camera to 4K 60 frames per second wide angle camera
- Integrated stabilizer with FlowState, for smooth action
- 5.7K resolution and advanced image processing
- Includes cinematic slow-motion and hyperlapse to slow down or speed up the action
- Amp up the vibrant color with Color Plus
- Reversible screen and invisible selfie stick
- IPX8 waterproofing to protect up to 5 meter depth
- Automatic horizon leveling feature
- Superb stabilization for smooth, steady footage even in rough action
- Creative edits available through Shot Lab
- Starlapse mode captures beautiful images and timelapse recordings of night sky
- Instant playback previews
- Not compatible with all phone types
- Instructions need improvement
One of the best GoPro type action cameras in a much lower price range is the dependable little VanTop Moment 3 4K Action Camera. This rugged little camera with a 2-inch display comes in a very handy foam-padded carrying case with a wrist remote, extra battery, and many more GoPro compatible accessories. The protective foam and zippered case (with handle) are ideal for protecting your action camera equipment even in your most active adventures.
The VanTop Moment 3 Camera is waterproof up to 100 feet and features 16 MP photos and stunningly vibrant 4K technology with a top-quality Sony sensor. It has enhanced image focusing and fast processing speeds, allowing burst technology and time-lapse photos. The extra-wide integrated 170-degree lens allows a panoramic view for full immersive quality and high-performance range. Enjoy loop recording, and burst shooting, which means you will never miss a moment. Use the wireless remote control on the wrist strap to capture all of your important moments during any exciting activity. You can instantly share shots and videos through the XDV App to Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Snapchat, or Youtube. You can even edit photos and videos on the go with just a few finger touches before sharing or saving.
The VanTop Moment 3 4K Action Camera delivers incredible sequence photos with drama shot modes. Then you can view and choose the perfect motion shot of a lifetime to save. It also has a loop recording feature and can be used as a dashcam, making this one of the best GoPro-type action cameras for versatile use and multiple functions. It’s a tiny little powerhouse of a camera in a much lower price range.
- 170 degree ultra-wide lens and many modes
- Includes wireless wrist remote control
- Burst shooting and loop recording features
- 16MP photos and 4K video
- Highly sensitive Sony sensor for improved focus, and processing speed
- Waterproof up to 100 ft
- Instant posting to social media platforms through the available app
- Includes carrying case with protective foam padding
- fast editing for instant social media sharing
- No touch screen
- Micro SD card must be purchased separately
4. GoPro MAX Waterproof 360
One of the best GoPro cameras for creative freedom to shoot traditional Hero-type videos and photos, or to choose immersive 360-degree footage, is the GoPro MAX. This is also the best GoPro choice for amazing audio quality with stereo sound and six microphones for true to life panoramic sound.
With the GoPro Max you can shoot footage and live stream in 1080p right to social media with cinematic-quality smoothness and stability. It features HyperSmooth integrated stabilization with horizon leveling in HERO mode. Users can run, flip, shake, and vibrate, and the footage stays perfectly smooth, oriented, and shake-free, making this the ideal action camera for your most exciting sports and adventures.
The GoPro Max features distortion-free panoramic photos for action shots, selfies, and vertical photos, all while keeping a constant level horizon. With a simple tap of the touchscreen, you can choose from an array of 4 digital lens options, including narrow, wide, linear, and the widest lense to date—the superview Max 13mm. Get a stunning panoramic shot with a simple point and click, without having to actually pan your camera. You can choose your digital lens to always get the perfect shot to share or save.
Use the timewarp feature to achieve the ultimate in stable time-lapse videos for even the most active-intense moments. In-camera stitching technique allows you to easily offload and edit any 360-degree footage. Upload to the cloud with a GoPro Plus subscription and add a micro SD card to store photos and footage right in your GoPro Max camera.
The GoPro MAX comes with the camera, rechargeable battery, curved adhesive mount, two lenses, lens caps, thumbscrew, mounting buckle, microfiber protective bag, and USB-C charging cable.
This is the best GoPro camera choice for panoramic shots and high-quality audio so you can share and save all of your most adventurous moments.
- Choose 360 immersive footage or traditional Hero videos and photos
- Incredible self-stabilization feature with horizon leveling
- 180 degree wide angle capture and 270 degree panoramic photos with no distortion
- Stereo quality with six mics for 360 audio
- 4 digital lenses in HERO mode, including narrow, linear, wide, and MAX super-view
- 360 degree stereo audio for the best audio quality in a GoPro
- Live stream in 1080p on social media and save to an SD card
- Reframe your 360 footage into traditional video and still shots, edit and share
- No burst mode
5. GoPro Hero7 Black
The GoPro Hero7 Black may be the best GoPro for stabilization, with an integrated self-stabilizing feature that delivers super smooth, shake-free footage no matter how active you are while recording. This GoPro offers the stability of a gimbal built right into the technology. Time-lapse video will be completely stable and professional-looking, and you can enjoy sharing the stunning footage in 720p with instant live streaming through the GoPro App to Facebook Live, and to other social media platforms.
The GoPro Hero7 Black is rugged, durable, and waterproof, allowing users to get footage that is too dangerous to capture with a fragile phone. Just swipe and tap the touch screen on the tiny camera or use the voice control to command the camera to take a photo or start recording, so you can stay completely in the moment and even hands-free. The vivid, stunning 10MP photos will allow you to keep and share your most exciting moments. Get up to 15 photos per second with burst mode, or capture stunning 4K60 video footage, for viewing that’s nearly as great as being there. Shoot vertically and capture your photos with portrait orientation, ideal for social media platforms. Stream live, and then save streamed videos in high resolution with your SD card.
The GoPro Hero7 Black lets you shoot in TimeWarp Video technology for stable time-lapse video footage as you move. You can also increase the speed up to 30 times, so even lengthy videos can be condensed into moments you can easily share. Share and save slow-motion video at eight times slower speeds so no detail will ever be missed.
Remember not to leave yourself out of the recorded action by using the photo timer to jump into the frame, take a group shot, or the perfect selfie.
This camera comes with a frame, mounting, rechargeable battery, and USB cord. It’s definitely one of the best GoPro cameras available today to help you share the action and fun!
- Rugged, waterproof build which doesn't require housing
- Self-stabilizing function
- Live streaming in 720p to Facebook Live, use RTMP URL for other social media platforms
- Intuitive HDR, local tone mapping, and noise reducing technology
- Self-stabilizing for hypersmooth footage without camera shake
- Multi-lingual voice control convenience
- 4K60 video capability up to 60 frames per second
- Enjoy stunning 12 MP photos
- Time warp, timer, and 8x slo-mo functions
- Live streams only in 1080p, not 4K
- Runs hot while recording in 4K
6. DJI Osmo Action Cam
One of the best GoPro type cameras not from the GoPro brand is the DJI Osmo Action Cam. This handy, versatile camera is an ideal choice to take with you wherever the action is, even in extreme elements such as sand, water, and snow. This durable action camera can withstand even extremely cold temperatures and water depths of up to 11 meters with a watertight seal and waterproof coating. The 145-degree wide-angle lens lets you take stunning photos with 12 MP for vivid colors and crystal clarity. The video footage you take on the go delivers completely immersive images in bold 4K technology so you can relive your best action moments over and over, and share them on social media.
The DJI Osmo 4K Action Camera has a unique two-display design with a front screen to allow you to frame yourself in any beautiful setting, while the back screen can take vivid and vibrant photos or videos through the clear, super-responsive 2.25-inch display.
DJI Osmo 4K Action Camera has an 8x slow-motion feature with 1080p resolution and 240 frames per second, so you never have to miss a single moment of even the most intense action. The RockSteady feature has integrated stability, making the DJI Osmo one of the best GoPro type cameras for shake-free footage no matter how intense the action is during your recording.
The DJI Osmo 4K Action Camera comes with a camera frame, flat mount, curved mount, quick release base, battery and battery case, locking screw, and USB cable. Use the DJI Mimo App with your iOS or Android device.
This is one of the best GoPro type cameras to take into any kind of action and store and share every action-packed moment for a lifetime of exciting memories.
- Action camera with dual screens to allow you to frame yourself in shots as well as back screen for stunning panoramic photos
- 145 degree wide angle lens
- 4 K HDR video, 12 MP photos, and 8X slow motion function
- Integrated stability for shake-free footage
- De-warping function to prevent "fish eye" curved photos
- Waterproof up to 11 meters and much more with waterproof case
- RockSteady technology for surprising stability through any action footage
- Built to endure even extreme cold
- Slight lag when using RockSteady mode
The AKASO EK7000 4K WiFi Sports Action Camera may be the best GoPro type camera in a lower price range. This little camera with a 2-inch display is a small powerhouse with ultra HD and 170-degree wide-angle lens. Just like in the more expensive brands, the AKASO EK7000 4K WiFi Sports Action Camera delivers 4K ultra HD video footage and 12MP photos at up to 30 frames per second. It also features such technologies as loop recording, burst photos, and time-lapse pictures, just as in the more expensive brands. Capture more of the scenery and action with the ultra-wide-angle 170-degree lens, and store it or share it to your favorite social media platforms.
With the AKASO you can instantly share your stunning videos and still frame photos with the built-in WiFi. Connect the action camera to your phone, tablet, or other device and use the App to preview and post your content to social media. Use a 32GB Class 10 Micro SD card to store all of your photos and footage so you can enjoy reliving your most memorable, action-packed moments in fully immersive videos and photos. With dual batteries with 90-minute battery life for each, you’ll enjoy a total of 180 minutes of photo and video taking per charge.
With the AKASO EK7000 4K WiFi Sports Action Camera, you can even take photos while water skiing, surfing, or engaging in other water activities. This sturdy little sports camera is waterproof for up to 98 ft and withstands extreme conditions, including water and snow. Instantly shoot with the shutter button itself, or use the splash-proof remote control to get exciting footage from a distance without having to miss a thing. Switch between photos and videos right from the remote and choose from multiple modes such as burst, loop recording, and time-lapse photo.
With a full set of mounting accessories for bikes, helmets, and more, you can take your AKASO Sports camera anywhere and enjoy the best GoPro type features at a much lower price.
- 4K Extra HD action camera with 12MP photos
- 30 FPS, for 4 times the resolution of typical HD cameras
- Wireless wrist remote and Built-in WiFi for instant sharing through Smart DV App
- Waterproof up to 100 feet and built to withstand extreme elements and environment
- 170 degree wide angle lens
- Brand: Akaso
- Long battery life with dual rechargeable batteries
- Loop recording, burst, and time lapse features
- Store photos and footage on camera with 32GB class 10 Micro SD card
- Photos may be blurred during action shots
8. GoPro Hero5 Black
One of the best GoPro Cameras is the classic GoPro Hero5 Black. This sturdy, durable little camera with a 2-inch screen and touch display, can go anywhere and shoot photos and videos with complete, shake-free stability. You can preview playback and edit your shots and videos, or change modes and settings right on your GoPro. Take stunning video in 4K and 12MP photo shots in singles, bursts, or time-lapse by changing the mode.
The GoPro Hero5 Black Camera is waterproof up to 33 feet, even without a waterproof housing. It comes with a frame, mounting, buckle, curved and flat adhesive mounts, thumb screw, and USB-C cable. Use the simple, single-button shutter control to power on and immediately start recording, or you can use the easy touch display or activate voice control for hands-free commands, so you never have to miss a moment of the action.
With the QuikStories enabled, the Hero% Black can send your new footage right to your phone, and auto uploads to the cloud with GoPro Plus and an AC power plug. Use a micro SD card for storage.
With the GoPro Hero5 Black you can capture all of your memories for saving or sharing and then relive them in stunning, vibrant 4K video, even those memories that are right in the middle of the action during the most exciting and fast-moving parts of your adventure. This is the best GoPro classic to make your memories last forever with vivid realism.
- Durable, waterproof action camera
- 12 MP photos and Vibrant 4K video
- Playback and preview right on the GoPro
- Immersive 4K technology
- Voice control technology
- 30 FPS Burst and time-lapse video features
- Crisp, clear audio
- Automatically updates footage to your Cloud account
- Automatic stabilizing
- Wind-noise reduction
- Touch screen
- Slight graininess in low lighting shots
- Battery life needs improving
9. Campark ACT74 Action Camera
The best GoPro type camera for use with an Android or iOS phone is the Campark ACT74 Action Camera. This durable little camera with a 2-inch display is ready for any action with a 170-degree extra-wide angle lens and Sony sensor for 4K recording. Your video footage will be stunning and immersive enough to capture every detail for sharing and saving. Your best moments can be lived over and over again.
The Campark ACT74 comes with a waterproof case for up to a 98-foot depth so you can enjoy recording and taking photos during water sports, snow, or other wet conditions. With 4K recording at 30 frames per second and 16M photo quality, your footage will be bold, vivid, and worth sharing. You can easily control your action camera with the WiFi remote control and compatibility with iOS and Android phones. Control your shots and videos in real-time and enjoy sharing them on social media platforms or send them instantly through email. You’ll have professional quality action photos and footage with life-like clarity and vibrant detail.
The Campark ACT74 aCTION Camera comes with a waterproof case, dual batteries, USB cable, and multiple mounts, including a handlebar mount, a fixed base, a helmet base, stickers, and more. The fast-charging dual batteries charge in only two to three hours, and each battery lasts for 90 minutes or 180 minutes total, making the Campark ACT74 Action Camera one of the best GoPro type action cameras for extra-long battery life, so you never have to miss a moment. Store all of your best action shots on a Max 32GB class 10 micro SD card right in the camera.
- Includes Sony Sensor for super 4K video
- Action camera with 2 inch screen and WiFi remote control
- Compatible with iOS and Android systems to control camera through your phone
- 4K videos and 16M photos
- 170 degree wide angle lens
- Adding a 32GB Micro SD card allows photo storage on camera
- Extra long battery life up to 180 minutes with dual battery system
- Waterproof up to thirty meters
- No low battery warning
If you want the simplicity of a GoPro Hero White model, but the 4K video technology included in the GoPro Black, then the GoPro Hero7 Silver Waterproof Digital Action Camera may be the best GoPro for you.
The GoPro Hero 7 Silver allows you to take photos at 10M, for clear, crisp quality at up to 15 frames per second. Video footage is 4K30 quality with built-in stabilization. It also delivers vertical portrait mode shots, ideal for social media platforms. A built-in timer allows you to jump into the action in any photo, group shot, or video. With voice command controls, you can also direct your phone to take photos or videos without having to lift a finger, ensuring you never miss a moment of the action.
With the GoPro Hero7 Silver, you can take advantage of time-lapse photo capturing function and other great features, including a built-in GPS that allows you to track speed, distance, and more. With waterproofing for up to 98 feet, you can enjoy watersports, and take all the photos and videos you’d like to share or store so that you can enjoy them over and over again.
This GoPro comes with a built-in rechargeable battery for further water-resistance. It includes the Sandisk Extreme 32GB MicroSDHC memory card for storage.
This deal also comes with a complete accessories kit. While some of the included accessories are less than top quality, you will still enjoy many usable pieces from the foam-padded accessory case, including a monopod selfie-stick, head and chest mounts, wrist strap, flexible tripod, floating handle, tripod mount, J-hook mount, and more.
This is one of the best GoPro action cameras to come with all of the bells and whistles with a simple design and easy-to-use functions for immersive 4K action video and high-quality still photos. And the included memory storage card allows us to save it all so we can look back on the fun later!
- GoPro Hero7 camera and accessory kit
- Records 4K30 Video, and captures 10MP photos up to 15 FPS
- Includes a full accessories kit with selfie stick mount, sports mounts, and tripod
- Built-in GPS feature
- Includes integrated stabilization feature
- Voice control command technology
- Timer feature included
- GPS function to track speed and distance
- Includes time-lapse function
- Accessories are not high quality
- Rechargeable battery is not removable
If your idea of a day of action means playing your best Xbox One game all day and engaging in digital combat until you finally blast your way to the next level, then you probably don’t need a GoPro camera. Your cell phone is probably perfect for those occasions when you venture out the door and pose for a selfie or a group shot at your favorite hangout. However, if your idea of action is surfing the perfect tube in Kauai, or snowboarding in Telluride, then the best GoPro camera is a major must-have if you want to capture the magic moments of your action-packed adventures.
While your phone camera is perfect for taking a ton of photos and videos on vacation so you can share your journey on social media, you can’t take your phone into the water with you to get that perfect snorkeling selfie or let go of the handlebars to use your phone to record the roughest part of your trail bike experience at fast speed down the side of a mountain. Instead, the best GoPro camera on a bike, or helmet mount, or underwater with a wrist mount, can capture the perfect still shots and most immersive videos for you to share and to save to look back on the fun in the future, and never miss a moment.
So if you’ve been trying to decide if a GoPro camera is for you, now is the time to know what to look for before you choose the right one for your active lifestyle.
What To Know About A GoPro
When choosing a GoPro, first, it’s important to understand their basic features. A typical GoPro—or another brand of action camera—is very small and lightweight. Their display screen is normally only about two inches in size, and the entire camera is about the same size as a small brownie. They look, in fact, more like a child’s toy than a real camera. However, there is nothing child-like about the power that is packed into these tiny devices.
The best GoPro cameras are waterproof even without an added waterproof casing. Most will maintain their integrity in water up to almost 100 feet, and some even deeper. This means you can take pictures and record videos underwater and in the midst of the action during your favorite water sports. They withstand extreme cold temperatures as well, so you can get that perfect shot while skiing or snowboarding.
Despite being tiny enough to take anywhere without being intrusive, a good GoPro is super tough and durable, with a housing that’s not only waterproof but also can withstand most accidental impacts. Unlike a phone camera, you don’t have to worry about taking your GoPro into the most intense action activities. Their small size and tough casing also make these cameras highly wearable. There are mounts available to attach them to your head, chest, wrist, and many kinds of sports equipment, so they can be right where the action is. Many of them come with a variety of accessories as part of the package, and more are sold separately.
Extras In The Best GoPro Or Action Camera
Once you’ve decided that a GoPro is an appropriate choice for you, it’s time to think about what special features you might need, and which is the best GoPro or other action camera to deliver them in your price range. Most of today’s best GoPro cameras offer stunning 4K video recording technology. You can record the most exciting moments and then share them to social media or save them to watch later in exquisite, immersive detail. They also offer still photos in qualities ranging from 10 MP (megapixels) to 16 MP. Look for those action cameras that offer high dynamic range for crystal clarity and vivid color. Wide-angle lenses are also a good quality to produce the best images. Most GoPro cameras offer wide angles at 145 degrees or extra-wide at 170-degree angle lenses.
If instant uploads to social media are important to you—and your followers—look for the best GoPro to offer uploads right from the camera or through apps that work with your phone or tablet. GoPros with WiFi capability allow you to monitor your camera through your device and let you control the GoPro without having to touch it. Some cameras also offer voice command controls.
A GoPro action camera is ideal for those times when the action is too intense for your cell phone camera. They are durable, tough, and a GoPro is good to go wherever the action will be.