The compact size and the ability to install an action camera almost anywhere have made this segment of video equipment very popular and in demand by a large audience of buyers. This applies not only to athletes, but also to ordinary users who like to create vivid landscapes or dynamic videos while pedaling. True, not all gadgets are able to guarantee the correct recording quality. We have tried to compile a useful rating of the best action cameras of 2021 based on customer reviews, taking into account current parameters. And the first thing to pay attention to is the resolution:
- HD (1280 by 720) – the cheapest resolution option, which already implies insufficient quality detail, taking into account the dynamic development of gadgets;
- FullHD (1920 x 1080): the most balanced option in terms of price / quality ratio;
- 4K (3840 by 2160 pixels) is the latest format and is slowly replacing FHD resolution.
The best budget action cameras
I’ll note right away that budget models that allow you to shoot 4K video physically cannot satisfy with decent detail in this mode. The fact is that such an image is taken by interpolating frames (stretching the image to the required resolution). Exceptions cannot please with a good frame rate, so creating a dynamic video is difficult. For budget models, the equipment, viewing angle, sound quality and FullHD video parameters are most important.
Rekam A310
The top 10 action cameras are opened by the Rekam A310, which belongs to the entry-level category. The main drawback of this series is the quality of the sound recording. Otherwise, the gadget fully meets the expectations of sophisticated buyers, as can be judged by user reviews. The device is made in a monoblock housing, complemented by a small two-inch display. The kit includes a special box that supports immersion in water to a depth of 30 meters. The kit also includes a charging adapter, carrying case, safety devices, a wide range of straps and a tripod mount. You can install the camera on any two-wheeled vehicle. Quite good autonomy is justified by the presence of a 900 mAh battery.
Advantages:
- resolution 3840 × 2160 pixels;
- 64 GB microSDHC card;
- 150 minutes of battery life;
- excellent equipment.
Flaws:
- mediocre sound.
SJCAM SJ4000 WiFi
The list of cheap but good action cameras is completed by the SJCAM SJ4000 Wi-Fi model, which attracts with a more affordable price than the SJ5000 with almost the same parameters. The gadget allows you to shoot FullHD video at 30 frames per second. In HD, you can enjoy 60 frames per second. It will not be superfluous to note the high quality of photos – you can shoot in 4K. Many buyers use this invention as a DVR, which is explained by a good viewing angle, versatility and the presence of useful modes. The device has a small screen with a resolution of 960 x 240 pixels. The downside is that the 900 mAh battery only lasts for 40 minutes of use.
Advantages:
- functional device;
- low price;
- you can take pictures in 4K;
- durable body.
Flaws:
- real autonomy of 40 minutes.
EKEN H9R Silver
If you don’t know which cheap action camera to choose with good specifications, take a look at the EKEN H9R Silver model with 4K video support, but with a frame rate of 25 fps. Of course, this indicator is not enough for shooting dynamic content. It is important to note a good camera with a resolution of 12 megapixels, but the viewing angle leaves much to be desired – it is difficult to use it as a DVR. Minor shortcomings are compensated by a good 1050 mAh battery, as well as excellent equipment. Included with the device is a special waterproof cover that allows you to operate the device at a depth of up to 30 meters.
Advantages:
- battery capacity;
- good matrix;
- photosensitivity;
- decent stabilization.
Flaws:
X-TRY XTC191 EMR Ultra HD
For lovers of objective economy, our list of action cameras has an affordable but high-quality model from the X-TRY XTC191 series with a 170 ° field of view. The compact device received a limited number of supports, but a powerful Allwiner V3 processor. In addition to stable operation, I would like to note the presence of the OV4689 matrix and digital ZOOM. Implemented decent digital stabilization, the ability to shoot video in FullHD 1080p at 60 frames per second. In the basic configuration, I would like to note a good sealed box, as well as a universal holder. The rest of the accessories, judging by customer reviews, do not surprise with anything extraordinary.
Advantages:
- viewing angle;
- good processor;
- quality matrix;
- good design.
Flaws:
- budget equipment.
SJCAM SJ6 Legend
The best budget action camera of 2021 is the SJCAM SJ6 Legend, capable of 4K video playback at 24fps. However, the recommended mode is FullHD at 30fps. I like the excellent 166 degree viewing angle. The design has a 2-inch display with good performance. However, it will be more convenient for everyone to view the material thanks to the Wi-Fi module on a smartphone or tablet. The kit comes with a high-quality box, which allows the device to withstand immersion to a depth of 30 meters. Users are also positive about the wide range of media as well as the footage for shooting videos from different locations. Battery life is 60 minutes.
Advantages:
- good lens;
- resistant body;
- self-employment;
- excellent equipment.
Flaws:
The best 4K action cameras
The main difference between the models presented in this collection is a good frame rate. Even cheap solutions, as you already understood, can work in 4K, but the FPS is not enough to create dynamic content. Another thing is the flagship sector, where high-end video recording solutions are concentrated almost anywhere: from transport to immersion in water. By the way, the gadgets of this collection have more expensive components.
DJI Osmo Pocket
Another popular action camera with a good battery and 4K video support. In this case, the manufacturer decided to use an expensive 1 / 2.3-inch CMOS sensor, which has an excellent viewing angle. Three-axis optical stabilization deserves special attention. DJI Osmo Pocket has a solid body with a small weight (116 grams) and a fairly clean design. Given the value for money, I would not look for flaws in the form of equipment or other minor inconveniences. However, there are no customer reviews for the software.
Advantages:
- excellent stabilization;
- excellent matrix;
- compact size;
- durable body.
Flaws:
- DJI Mimo app.
Insta360 One R 1 Inch
The rating of action cameras has been replenished with a model from a well-known automotive manufacturer – this is Insta360 One R 1 Inch. The main advantage of this device is its high strength and durability. The gadget can withstand temperatures from -20 to +40 degrees. In this case, battery life may exceed 60 minutes. The case of the device is protected according to the IPX8 standard. An excellent shot is justified by the presence of a 1-inch sensor with excellent optical stabilization. Among other things, the ability to control the gadget using the Apple Watch is implemented. However, users had a negative attitude towards switching modes on the touch screen.
Advantages:
- resistant body;
- moisture protection IPX8;
- control via Apple Watch;
- optical stabilization.
Flaws:
- switching mode.
DJI Pocket 2 Creator Combo
Another premium all-in-one action camera with good features and specifications. The DJI Pocket 2 Creator Combo features a compact 1.5-inch LCD screen and a highly durable body that can withstand immersion in water up to 50 meters deep. Inside the compact design is an 875 mAh battery. Of course, for good autonomy, the indicated power is not enough. However, the main features of this series are associated with an improved lens and stabilization. The device can shoot video in 4K Ultra HD (3840×2160) without delay. The 1/1.7 inch CMOS sensor, in turn, guarantees an excellent viewing angle and detail. The sensor resolution is 64 megapixels.
Advantages:
- microSD up to 256 GB;
- expensive sensor;
- good screen;
- availability of Wi-Fi, Bluetooth;
- protected cover.
Flaws:
- battery life.
Sony FDR-X3000
If you’re looking for a tried and tested premium solution, the Sony FDR-X3000 is worth giving credit to. The 4K action camera of this series differs from the X3000R version only in the lack of a full screen mode. In this case, the device can shoot video in 3840 × 2160 pixels at 30 frames per second. The 3x zoom and advanced optics of this gadget deserve special attention. A full range of communications has been implemented, thanks to which it is possible to control the recording of video clips using portable devices. The battery capacity is 1240 mAh, which explains the good battery life. The kit includes a special box.
Advantages:
- battery capacity;
- 3x zoom;
- excellent optics;
- high bitrate.
Flaws:
- not a new model.
GoPro HERO8
The best action camera of 2021 in all respects is the GoPro HERO8, equipped with amazing HyperSmooth 2.0 digital stabilization. Traditionally, one of the leading manufacturers has equipped its products with a durable housing protected from moisture and dust. At the same time, 8x slowdown deserves special attention, and the maximum data transfer rate is 100 frames per second. There is a goal to change the viewing angle, improve the technology of extended dynamic range. You can create timelapses, save presets. Inside is a large 1220 mAh battery. The device weighs about 126 grams.
Advantages:
- battery life;
- excellent stabilization;
- improved HDR;
- many operating modes.
Flaws:
How to choose a good action camera?
Of course, in our selection, not all users will find a suitable solution for themselves. If you do not know how to choose an action camera, we also recommend that you pay attention to the main features:
- Hull shape: there are longitudinal and frontal models. The convenience of using a particular model depends on the purpose and objectives. The front cameras are made in the shape of a rectangle and look like classic cameras.
- Protection class: Models for shooting in extreme conditions are equipped with a case protected from moisture and dust according to the IPXX standard, where the last two characters are arbitrary numbers. The higher they are, the better the resistance to moisture resistance and pressure at depth.
- Shooting resolution: WVGA and HD standards are no longer relevant, and devices capable of shooting Full HD (1080p), QuadHD and 4K, respectively, are in great demand. There is also support for 8K videos, but they are not very popular yet. The more pixels, the more expensive the technique. In this case, it is worth paying attention not only to the resolution, but also to the frame rate.
- Viewing angle: varies from 180 to 360 degrees, which explains the scope of the method.
- Stabilization – Compared to optical stabilization, digital stabilization is simpler and more reliable, but it costs more. The first option, in turn, is cheaper, eliminates the risk of creating bad photos due to vibrations, handshakes, but the system of gyroscopes and lenses in such a lens is weaker.
- Noise reduction is a necessary option if you are shooting video with sound.
- A microphone can also come in handy when recording with vocals. The more of these details, the better, but it is important that noise reduction is implemented.
If you don’t know how to choose a good action camera at all, and at the same time don’t know where to start, look also at the additional features of modern models to know what you can get.
Additional options for action cameras
- Take a photo during the video: usually a separate button is used to implement the option;
- Continuous shooting: allows you to quickly create several images at the same time;
- One-click video recording is useful if you work with a large amount of content;
- Live streaming – provides direct access to services, including YouTube hosting;
- Wi-Fi support – used to quickly connect and upload files to the network;
- The presence of GPS – satellite navigation, which allows you to determine and issue the coordinates of the gadget;
- Bluetooth support – for quick connection of smartphones and content transfer.
What is the best action camera to choose in 2021?
With the help of our assessment, we tried to highlight not only some lines, but also brands that deserve attention. If you don’t know which action camera to choose, you can also check other versions of these brands’ products. As for our conclusion for today:
- Cheap but good model – X-TRY XTC191;
- A good action camera in terms of price / quality ratio – SJCAM SJ6 Legend;
- Reliable and durable model with 4K support – Sony FDR-X3000;
- Best Premium Action Camera: GoPro HERO8
Share your opinion, dear friends, or at least vote for the model that you think deserves attention.
Rekam A310 0% SJCAM SJ4000 Wi-Fi 27.27% EKEN H9R Silver 9.09% X-TRY XTC191 EMR UltraHD 0% SJCAM SJ6 Legend 36.36% DJI Osmo Pocket 0% Insta360 One R 1 inch 0% DJI Pocket 2 Creator Combo 0% Sony FDR -X3000 27.27% GoPro HERO8 0% Voted: eleven