The best action cameras for 2025

If you love capturing your adventures, from mountain biking trails to underwater dives, an action camera is a must-have in your gear bag. The best action camera delivers crisp footage, rugged durability and the flexibility to shoot in just about any environment — including in the rain, snow or under water. These compact, often wearable devices are built to go where your phone or mirrorless camera simply can’t, offering features like image stabilization, wide angle lenses and impressive video resolution for smooth, immersive footage.Many models now support HDR for vibrant colors, slo-mo for dramatic effect and advanced settings like adjustable aspect ratio and frame rates. Some are even designed as a single-lens solution that can still give you stunning results, without the complexity of multi-camera rigs. And if you're planning long shoots or travel adventures, don’t forget to look for extra batteries and a reliable SD card — two essentials that make a big difference in how much you can capture on the go.Whether you're new to the world of video cameras or you're a seasoned pro, this buying guide covers our top picks across different price points and use cases. From high-end rigs to the best waterproof camera options, we’ll help you find the best action cam with the compatibility and features you need to capture every epic moment. Best action cameras for 2025 What to consider before choosing an action camera Action cameras have certain traits that separate them from regular cameras or smartphones. The most important is ruggedness that makes them resistant to water, dust and shocks. Most action cameras are now waterproof cameras without the need for a separate enclosure. At the same time, you can purchase housing accessories to make them waterproof to even greater depths. Video quality is also key. Every model we recommend goes to at least 4K 60fps, but some models like GoPro’s latest Hero 13 boost video resolution up to 5.3K 60fps, or even 8K 30p with the Insta360 Ace Pro 2. That allows you to crop in on shots and capture vertical video at higher resolutions for social media. Another nice feature is log video that improves dynamic range when filming on sunny, contrasty days — and many newer models now support HDR for even more vibrant footage. Plus, if you film in dim environments, you’ll want the largest sensor possible for the best low-light performance, much like with high-end video cameras or mirrorless systems. For activities with bumps and jolts like mountain biking, image stabilization is incredibly important. You want your video to look smooth, but still need to convey the thrill and speed of the action. The Hero 13 is still the top pick in this regard, delivering jolt-free video that makes the viewer feel like they’re going down the bike trail or ski slope, with no annoying digital artifacts. DJI and Insta360’s products are good, but not quite at that level yet. Some action cameras are easier to handle and use, so take that into account as well. You’ll want bright and colorful displays both front and back, buttons you won’t have to fumble to find and easy-to-use menus. Remote control is another factor that can ease operation. And you’ll want to check which software is available to improve image stabilization, edit video, remove selfie sticks and more. Also, look out for compatibility with third-party accessories or apps that can expand what your camera can do. Then there's the area of accessories. Do you need helmet or chest mounts, extra batteries, waterproof housings, or a fast SD card? GoPro has the largest number of those, but DJI makes handy wireless mics that connect directly with its cameras. And of course, battery life is critical for action shooting as it’s hard to change one when you’re out surfing.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/cameras/best-action-camera-130017459.html?src=rss

May 2, 2025 - 11:34

If you love capturing your adventures, from mountain biking trails to underwater dives, an action camera is a must-have in your gear bag. The best action camera delivers crisp footage, rugged durability and the flexibility to shoot in just about any environment — including in the rain, snow or under water. These compact, often wearable devices are built to go where your phone or mirrorless camera simply can’t, offering features like image stabilization, wide angle lenses and impressive video resolution for smooth, immersive footage.

Many models now support HDR for vibrant colors, slo-mo for dramatic effect and advanced settings like adjustable aspect ratio and frame rates. Some are even designed as a single-lens solution that can still give you stunning results, without the complexity of multi-camera rigs. And if you're planning long shoots or travel adventures, don’t forget to look for extra batteries and a reliable SD card — two essentials that make a big difference in how much you can capture on the go.

Whether you're new to the world of video cameras or you're a seasoned pro, this buying guide covers our top picks across different price points and use cases. From high-end rigs to the best waterproof camera options, we’ll help you find the best action cam with the compatibility and features you need to capture every epic moment.

Best action cameras for 2025

What to consider before choosing an action camera

Action cameras have certain traits that separate them from regular cameras or smartphones. The most important is ruggedness that makes them resistant to water, dust and shocks. Most action cameras are now waterproof cameras without the need for a separate enclosure. At the same time, you can purchase housing accessories to make them waterproof to even greater depths.

Video quality is also key. Every model we recommend goes to at least 4K 60fps, but some models like GoPro’s latest Hero 13 boost video resolution up to 5.3K 60fps, or even 8K 30p with the Insta360 Ace Pro 2. That allows you to crop in on shots and capture vertical video at higher resolutions for social media. Another nice feature is log video that improves dynamic range when filming on sunny, contrasty days — and many newer models now support HDR for even more vibrant footage. Plus, if you film in dim environments, you’ll want the largest sensor possible for the best low-light performance, much like with high-end video cameras or mirrorless systems.

For activities with bumps and jolts like mountain biking, image stabilization is incredibly important. You want your video to look smooth, but still need to convey the thrill and speed of the action. The Hero 13 is still the top pick in this regard, delivering jolt-free video that makes the viewer feel like they’re going down the bike trail or ski slope, with no annoying digital artifacts. DJI and Insta360’s products are good, but not quite at that level yet.

Some action cameras are easier to handle and use, so take that into account as well. You’ll want bright and colorful displays both front and back, buttons you won’t have to fumble to find and easy-to-use menus. Remote control is another factor that can ease operation. And you’ll want to check which software is available to improve image stabilization, edit video, remove selfie sticks and more. Also, look out for compatibility with third-party accessories or apps that can expand what your camera can do.

Then there's the area of accessories. Do you need helmet or chest mounts, extra batteries, waterproof housings, or a fast SD card? GoPro has the largest number of those, but DJI makes handy wireless mics that connect directly with its cameras. And of course, battery life is critical for action shooting as it’s hard to change one when you’re out surfing.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/cameras/best-action-camera-130017459.html?src=rss