An action camera is a special equipment designed for digital video recording of outdoor activities and outdoor sports. Its main function is to capture the brightest moments of life. Such a camera weighs little, has small overall dimensions, is reliably protected from moisture and pollution, and has several ways of attaching to various surfaces. This allows you to install it almost anywhere and get a beautiful interesting picture. When buying an action camera, special attention is paid to the following details:
- The lens is responsible for the amount of light falling on the matrix per unit of time, is characterized by the number of lenses and their arrangement relative to each other, provides a comfortable focal length and a certain viewing angle;
- The matrix has a direct impact on the quality of the footage. It is determined by physical dimensions, the presence of a noise reduction system, which will be very important in low light conditions or bad weather, resolution and frame rate per second;
- The processor is one of the key elements, it processes the signal coming from the matrix, is responsible for the image quality, and so on.
When compiling the ranking of the top 10 best action cameras in 2022, we have collected only the highest quality models that have a good price-quality ratio. We also took into account user reviews and hope that it will help you in choosing such a difficult device as an action camera.
Ten of the best action cameras in 2022
10. GoPro HERO8 (CHDHX-801-RW) black edition
The device is housed in a case consisting of several layers, the top is a rubberized plastic coated with soft-touch, which eliminates the possibility of slipping. The lens does not protrude beyond the body, but the protective block with special glass protrudes slightly. Directly under the lens is a grille with holes that covers the microphone. Here, a little away from the lens, there is a liquid crystal type display. It displays information regarding the current mode of operation, the degree of charge. On the back of the case is a touch screen, which is quite bright in itself. It is not located strictly in the center, but shifted slightly to the right. The screen dimensions are small — 40×28 mm, but it is very convenient and easy to use, as it instantly recognizes touches.
The case is reliably protected from dust and moisture penetration — the camera can be submerged in water to a depth of 10 m. The battery has a capacity of 1200 mAh. On a full charge, shooting at 4K resolution can be done within 48 m. The picture is quite clear and well detailed. An effective stabilizer is installed — the recording will not shake when shooting while walking. The camera has proven itself quite well in terms of shooting videos with a lack of natural light.
Advantages:
- Excellent electronic stabilizer eliminates image shaking;
- Excellent image resolution regardless of lighting conditions;
- Many different shooting modes;
- Compact dimensions and low weight.
Flaws:
- There is no properly working software for a computer, although a mobile application is still available;
- Weak battery, which, moreover, discharges much faster in the cold.
GoPro HERO8 (CHDHX-801-RW) black edition
9. DIGMA DiCam 300
This product will be a great choice for people who prefer to actively spend their free time. The camera has excellent detail. Its module has a resolution of 16 megapixels, thanks to which it will be possible to create the most detailed videos in 4K format, if necessary, you can take clear and beautiful photos. It has a 120-degree wide-angle lens. Several modules and connectors are provided for synchronization with other devices. In particular, the device has Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, as well as a USB slot, there is also a slot for a memory card. On the back of the case is a touch screen with a diagonal of 2 inches. The device comes with a handy case with excellent waterproof characteristics. With it, you can shoot underwater at a depth of up to 30 m.
The camera comes with a whole set of various kinds of mounts and adapters, a headband and a USB cable for connecting to a personal computer or laptop. The camera has several shooting modes — 4K, FullHD and HD. In the highest quality, the frame rate will be 60 frames per second, when FullHD is selected, this parameter increases to 60 frames, and in HD — up to 120 frames. The device is based on a fairly fast Allwinner V3 processor.
Advantages:
- Provides excellent brightness and picture clarity;
- Quite acceptable cost;
- A high-quality microphone with an active noise reduction system is installed;
- Excellent video and photo resolution.
Flaws:
- Even a fully charged battery will last a maximum of a couple of hours of continuous operation.
DIGMA DiCam 300
8. DJI Pocket 2
It differs in a form factor that is not quite familiar to action cameras, but this does not affect the efficiency of the device at all. The weight of the product is only 117 grams. The resolution of the lens is 64 megapixels. The device is capable of recording 4K quality videos at a frame rate of up to 60 frames per second, the bit rate can reach 100 Mbps. There is support for HDR, digital zoom, and the quality will not suffer from its use at all. The model received an improved auto focus system, thanks to which it is very easy to track moving objects. The sound recording system is represented by four microphones at once. They have support for advanced functionality — Directional Audio, SoundTrack and Audio Zoom, quite naturally, active suppression of extraneous noise is provided.
The camera is equipped with a high-quality electronic stabilizer that works both in horizontal and vertical planes. It is possible to conduct live broadcasts — for this, the products are equipped with a Wi-Fi module, the manufacturer has developed a special mobile application for it, which can be installed on any operating system. A fairly large set of accessories comes with the camera. In particular, among them there is a case with a charging function, a wireless microphone that connects to the camera via Bluetooth, a waterproof case, a wide-angle lens attachment, a wireless module and an extension cable.
Advantages:
- Very rich equipment;
- The technology of image stabilization vertically and horizontally is well thought out;
- A handy application with a friendly and intelligent interface.
Flaws:
- Unusual form factor, which will take some time to get used to;
- Quite expensive.
DJI Pocket 2
7. SJCAM SJ4000 WiFi
This device has an excellent and very functional filling: a 12 MPix matrix, further improved by a fast lens with a maximum viewing angle of 170 degrees. This allows you to achieve excellent shooting quality even in case of insufficient lighting. LCD display with a diagonal of only one and a half inches, which is not enough.
Shooting is convenient — you can set the self-timer, use the continuous mode. There are three image formats — Full HD (30 frames per second with a resolution of 1920 * 1080 dpi), HD (recording speed is 30 or 60 FPS, resolution 1280 * 720), Easy (848 * 480 pixels at 60 frames per second) . All these indicators are quite enough for outdoor use. There is a Wi-Fi module, a convenient Russified interface, due to wireless data transfer, the picture can not be recorded, but immediately transferred to the screen of a laptop or smartphone. The camera is quite light, weighing 58g without a battery, which weighs 44g, you can use it to take pictures.
Advantages:
- Rich equipment, which includes several devices for fixing on the surface;
- High quality shooting;
- Acceptable cost;
- Long battery life;
- Small dimensions and weight;
- Wi-Fi module provided.
Flaws:
- It will not be possible to get a perfectly clear picture in low light;
- Color rendition falls into red shades;
- The microphone is weak — the sound is quite quiet.
SJCAM SJ4000 WiFi
6. Insta360 GO 2
One of the most compact action cameras that can only be found on the Russian market. With its help, you can get a unique perspective, and she herself is almost invisible. The sensor resolution is 2560×1440 pixels. There is no slot for installing a memory card, so you will only have to use the built-in memory — its volume is 32 GB. The interface provides several preset shooting modes. You can use a unique feature — slow motion mode. In this case, the camera will shoot video with a resolution of 1920×1080 pixels at 120 frames per second. The case is made of high-quality plastic with a matte coating, so it does not accumulate various kinds of dirt, and fingerprints do not remain. There are wireless modules — Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. The device can be submerged in water to a depth of 13 meters.
The camera comes with a magnetic suspension, an easy clip and a swivel stand. The clip, for example, can be attached to clothing or headgear to shoot in first person. The device is equipped with a case, which also has its own battery — like wireless headphones. It can not only charge the camera battery, but also function as a mini tripod, and also serve as a remote control. No other action camera has anything like it. The mass of the device is less than 30 grams. During recording, the LED indicator always flickers. The device can be synchronized with a smartphone using a mobile application. There is no display on the case, so it is unlikely that it will be possible to do without an application, since the user will not see what exactly he is shooting.
Advantages:
- Quite compact overall dimensions;
- Convenient case with charging function;
- Insignificant weight;
- Well thought out application functionality.
Flaws:
- There is no display — without a program it will not be possible to see what exactly falls into the frame when shooting;
- During recording, the LED always flickers;
- There is no slot for a memory card.
Insta360 GO 2
5. Xiaomi Mijia Seabird 4K motion Action Camera
Another fairly compact model, which together with the battery will weigh only about 60 grams. This allows you to carry it with you all the time. The body is plastic with a slight corrugation, there is a cap for additional protection of the lens from contamination and possible damage. The case has excellent protection against dust ingress, easily withstands water splashes. Chinese engineers have well thought out the ergonomics of this device. Only two buttons can be found on the body — the first turns the device on and off, the second is designed to start and stop the recording process. All other manipulations with the interface will have to be done through the functionality of the touch screen. It should be said right away that it is not Russified — you can choose only English or Chinese.
A tripod socket is provided, which will be very useful if you have to shoot for a long time from any stationary point. There is a slot for a microSD memory card, the maximum capacity of which can reach 128 GB. The camera is capable of shooting in 4K resolution, however, if there is a lack of natural light, the picture may turn out to be somewhat dull. You can make it brighter using the settings — the video will look like it was shot on a professional camera.
Advantages:
- One of the cheapest models;
- Excellent build quality;
- You can greatly expand the built-in memory;
- Picture at a professional level.
Flaws:
- Can’t shoot underwater.
Xiaomi Mijia Seabird 4K motion Action Camera
4. Sony FDR-X3000R
A very good and inexpensive action camera, where the matrix of the latest SonyExmor R 12.5-inch model, enhanced by a powerful Bionz X processor, acts as the basis. The stabilizer is quite reliable, it performs especially well when shooting in 4K format. The maximum bitrate of the device is 100 Mbps, so you need to immediately prepare for the fact that the files will weigh quite a lot — it is advisable to purchase a capacious memory card. The camera has all the modules for wireless data transmission — Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS, NFC, even an infrared port.
The case is made of white plastic — this is the main disadvantage, as it will quickly become dirty, but at the same time it perfectly protects the filling from snow, rain or splashes. The device operates at temperatures up to -10 degrees. On the side there is a monochrome display of small size with several convenient buttons that allow you to select the most suitable shooting mode. All connectors for connecting to charging or a computer are hidden under a small cap with a latch, a battery and a slot for a memory card are hidden under the cover.
A wide-angle lens equipped with Zeiss optics, next to it are microphones for sound recording, as well as a speaker. Perfect for underwater photography up to 60 meters deep. The kit comes with a remote control that is worn on the wrist, it has the main control buttons on the sides, and a display on the front side.
Advantages:
- It shoots well in absolutely any conditions;
- The presence of a high-quality stabilizer;
- The case is well protected from moisture;
- For immersion in water to a great depth, there is a special box in the kit;
- Connectors for mountings are universal;
- Convenient to manage.
Flaws:
- High price;
- A well-marked case, on which any, even the most insignificant, pollution is perfectly visible.
Sony FDR-X3000R
3. Insta360 One X2
In third place in our review of the best action cameras is another interesting model, placed in a waterproof case. Its capabilities allow you to turn even rather boring stories into real masterpieces. The review is 360 degrees, the overall dimensions are very compact, a large number of new special effects have been added to the interface. The device is equipped with a double fisheye lens. They shoot a video at 5.7K 30 frames per second, which is then combined to create a 360-degree view of everything that is happening around. With this device, you can take photos, the resolution of the pictures will reach 18.4 megapixels. The mass of the device is only 149 grams with overall dimensions of 46x113x30 mm. There is a thread on the bottom for mounting the camera on a tripod. On the side, behind a flip cover, there are two slots — USB-C and a slot for microSD memory cards. The camera is also equipped with a 1630 mAh lithium-ion battery, which lasts approximately 80 minutes of continuous operation.
The case is waterproof — the camera can be submerged in water up to 10 meters deep, and this can be done without using a case. The product has a unique MultiView feature used for face tracking in a picture-in-picture manner. It will be very useful for vloggers.
Advantages:
- A huge number of different possibilities;
- A lot of special effects have been added to the interface;
- Housing waterproof;
- Photos in high resolution, comparable to professional cameras.
Flaws:
- Editing takes a decent amount of time;
- For convenient work with the application, you will need a smartphone with high performance and the latest version of the operating system.
Insta360 GO 2
2. GoPro MAX (CHDHZ-201-RW)
Equipped with a touch screen with real-time preview. Using the display, you can control the camera itself, its modes of operation, you can find out the amount of remaining charge and the amount of free memory. A system of six microphones is installed in the design, so the sound transmission on the rollers is as close to natural as possible. Next to the display is a microphone aimed at the user, which is useful for comments.
The product can shoot a spherical image in 5.6K quality at 30 frames per second. Viewing angles can be adjusted as needed by selecting Standard, Linear and Wide. The standard one will be very convenient when shooting close-ups — in this case, the recording is made without the slightest image of the picture. The camera is even equipped with a Slow Mo mode — slowing down time, it also has two more modes. The mobile application turned out to be convenient and understandable, so you don’t have to spend a lot of time processing media files. Digital stabilization system Coconuts Hyper smooth will not allow image shaking, with its help you can even fix the horizon line, so that the picture becomes perfectly smooth.
Advantages:
- Unique circular shooting mode;
- Attractive design;
- Well-designed mobile application interface;
- There are some interesting additional features.
Flaws:
- High price;
- Weak battery.
GoPro MAX (CHDHZ-201-RW)
1. Ricoh Theta Z1
The gadget is equipped with one of the largest sensors among all action cameras on the world market. It is dual, equipped with backlight, the effective resolution is about 20 megapixels. The picture will turn out clear and high-quality even under the condition of a lack of natural light and even in complete darkness. The camera is powered by a high-performance Qualcomm SnapdragonTM microprocessor. It processes the received data in a matter of fractions of a second, forming a high-quality image or video. The device was developed with an emphasis on the highest possible quality of optics, as well as speed in relation to image processing. The creators have fully managed to realize their plans. The optical unit came out quite compact, but at the same time it allows you to get very high-quality content with excellent color reproduction and clarity.
The camera is capable of recording 360-degree panoramic video in 4K format with a resolution of 3840×1920 pixels and a frequency of 30 frames per second. It has a three-axis digital stabilizer with a rotation compensator. Photos can be saved in two formats at once — .jpeg and .raw. The user, if necessary, can correct the position of the horizon line. With this camera, you can provide a panoramic live video broadcast in 4K format. The gadget is equipped with a four-channel microphone that provides surround sound recording, but the orientation relative to the sound source will be maintained.
Advantages:
- Excellent workmanship and assembly;
- High data processing speed;
- Excellent optics installed;
- You can broadcast live in 4K format;
- The picture is simply unique.
Flaws:
- Except for the high price is not found.
Ricoh Theta Z1
In conclusion, an interesting video
The development of modern technologies in the creation of action cameras allows them to be used almost as professional recording equipment, and such products are not too expensive. About whether you liked the review and the models presented in it, you can comment on our article.