If you’re into action cameras, you’re probably looking to make sure that you invest in the best one that’s available. There are a lot of great options out there, but not all of them are created equal. Here are a few things to look out for when you’re shopping around or the best action camera.
GoPro HERO 8
The GoPro HERO 8 is a significant upgrade to GoPro’s flagship action camera. It’s a compact, streamlined device that offers plenty of features. It’s perfect for thrill seekers.
GoPro Hero 8 cameras are designed to be tough. They can be used for a number of different things, including running, vlogging, and playing sports. Even the most casual users can find plenty of uses for them.
The new Hero 8 has improved audio quality, and there are also several new digital lenses. Those lenses offer 100Mbps bit rates in both 4K/2.7K and 4K/30 FPS modes.
One of the more impressive features is the HyperSmooth 2.0 stabilization system. This allows the camera to do a super smooth time-lapse while moving.
Aside from that, the HERO 8 also has a new Auto leveling feature. This is an app-driven option that works a lot easier than manually leveling the camera. But it’s not as smooth as the source footage.
The HERO 8 is also better at shooting high definition 1080p footage at higher frame rates. That’s important for action shots.
The Hero 8 also includes a feature called TimeWarp. This lets you capture a short time lapse video and then choose the best part of the shot.
Another major improvement is the improved battery. While the HERO 8 still has a 1,220mAh battery, the new battery lasts for an hour or two of active use.
The front-facing touchscreen is also a great feature. It’s great for vlogging or taking epic selfies.
And don’t forget to take a look at the HERO 8 Black’s line of “mods,” or modular accessories. From a roll cage to a light mod, you can transform this device into the vlogging powerhouse you’ve always dreamed of.
GoPro HERO9 Black
The GoPro HERO9 Black is a rock solid piece of hardware. It’s got a hefty battery, a bright and dazzling front display, voice control, HyperSmooth video stabilization, a touch screen, and plenty of other convenient features. But it’s also quite expensive, and most people probably don’t need it.
However, the camera is waterproof down to 33 feet. It can record in 1080p, 4K, and 5K resolutions. Plus, it records at up to 8x slow motion. This allows for some really cool effects, such as time-lapse videos. And its battery lasts up to 30 percent longer than the previous Hero8 Black.
Another great feature is horizon leveling, which keeps the horizon straight, no matter how you move. You can also use RAW mode for burst photos.
If you’re looking for a camera that’s ready to go anywhere, you should look no further than the GoPro HERO9. Its rugged, waterproof design means it can get through the toughest adventures. And its SuperView technology lets you choose the best image processing for the shot.
The front display is perfect for selfies. It also shows you the lens that’s capturing what you’re recording. You can also schedule capture and customize shortcuts on the viewfinder.
Besides that, it’s also waterproof down to 33 feet, making it ideal for underwater photography. And it comes with five digital lenses.
The GoPro HERO9 Black also has a built-in touch screen, letting you zoom and frame shots perfectly. And it can understand English, Japanese, Italian, Chinese, Korean, Swedish, and Portuguese.
The GoPro HERO9 is compatible with Android devices. It has a supercharger power adapter, so you can charge the battery up to 35% faster.
DJI Osmo Action
The DJI Osmo Action is a tough, versatile action camera that’s perfect for serious thrill seekers. It boasts a class-leading RockSteady electronic stabilization system. And thanks to its new CMOS sensor, it can record at a higher resolution, capturing four times more data in every shot.
With its wide-angle lens, Osmo Action is ideal for catching a range of activities, including sports, travel and landscape footage. This model features two microphones, which help it record audio. Moreover, there are four HDR modes.
HDR recording helps you capture rich details in shadows and highlights. In addition, Osmo Action’s Dewarp function eliminates distortion when shooting close-ups. A time lapse mode condenses long periods of time, allowing you to create fun videos.
It also supports voice control. You can use your voice to adjust the camera’s settings and to start/stop recording. Unlike many other action cameras, you don’t need a smartphone to operate it.
It’s also compatible with a standard action-camera mount. That means you can connect it to the appropriate accessories, such as an extension rod. However, the battery on the Osmo Action isn’t removable.
There’s a dedicated battery inside the body, which is integrated into the frame. The battery is rated to last 91 minutes when recording in 4K at 30fps with stabilization enabled. To prevent damage, the battery is securely locked into place.
The OSMO Action also includes a 2.25-inch touchscreen. But unlike most other action cameras, it’s designed to be used from the back. Despite its size, it offers a clear, 800 nit display.
The Osmo Action is a great option for action enthusiasts, especially those who want a simple and responsive interface. Thanks to its wide-angle lens, the camera can capture smooth footage.
Sony RX0 II
If you’re looking for a camera that’s rugged, waterproof, shock-resistant, and crushproof, then the Sony RX0 II is a great choice. It’s also compact enough to fit in a photographer’s pocket and can be used for vlogging, time-lapses, and other types of images.
The RX0 II is packed with impressive features, including a 1.0-type sensor, image stabilization, and an advanced imaging processor. In addition, it can capture 4K video, and its screen can tilt upward and downward by 90 degrees.
There’s also a new interval recording feature that allows you to shoot up to 60 seconds at a time. You can choose to record 1080p or 960 fps at either NTSC or PAL.
The RX0 II has a f/4 fixed aperture, which gives you some of the best autofocus performance in its class. Sony’s autofocus system is fast and smart, and rarely misses a shot.
The Sony RX0 II is built to be tough, and is even shock-resistant to 6.5 feet. But it can also take stunning still images, and it’s even capable of shooting 4K.
This little camera comes with a handful of great accessories, but it’s a bit of a splurge for a camera that can shoot 4K and has a few minor limitations. For instance, it can’t be controlled through an external mic, and its shutter speed can’t be adjusted manually.
Although it’s a notch below the GoPro Hero 7, the RX0 II has a few nice features that make it an excellent option for anyone seeking a small, durable camera. If you’re looking for a little more control, an optional Camera Control Box can be plugged in to give you the ability to simultaneously control up to five cameras.
Insta360 One R
The Insta360 One R is an amazing 360-degree camera that combines the best features of action cameras with the high-end capabilities of a 360 camera. It can capture 4K video, as well as super slow motion at 200 fps.
Insta360’s flagship camera is small and lightweight, yet it packs a big punch. It has a touch screen on the back, and a powerful AI-powered tracking algorithm.
It also has a built-in housing case and a re-usable battery. In addition, it comes with a variety of lens mods. Some of them include a 1 inch module and a dual-lens 360 module. With these, you can create an impressive array of effects.
You can change between four modes of operation, including daytime, nighttime, live-action, and 3D capture. While the OneR is relatively easy to use, it does require some assembly before it is ready for use.
In addition, the app is available in both iOS and Android. However, you will need a phone with a compatible operating system and a Qualcomm Snapdragon 845.
Insta360’s app features a full-featured editor. This includes a FlashCut feature, which uses artificial intelligence to identify the best 360 video shots. These can then be edited without downloading. Additionally, the app can remove drones from video shots.
One R also offers voice control, allowing users to interact with their photos and videos. Users can speak into the microphone and have their pictures edited in real-time. Another unique feature is the Invisible Selfie Stick.
Another great feature of the OneR is its compatibility with Bluetooth headsets. It can even record audio feedback in real time.
There are three types of One R models, each with a different lens/sensor combo. For instance, the Twin Edition has two lenses, a 360 sensor, and a one inch sensor.