Choosing an action camera: how to choose the right one, characteristics and top 10 models

There are several proven methods to help you understand how to choose an action camera for an amateur. First of all, you need to pay attention to indicators that affect video quality (frame rate, resolution, etc.). It is equally important to study the battery life and additional characteristics described in this article.

Main selection criteria

First of all, you should figure out how to choose an action camera. To do this, it is important to consider several technical parameters and consumer characteristics. The most important criteria are as follows.

Shooting resolution

When considering which action camera to choose, many users rightly begin their review with the shooting quality. It is important to understand that this is a complex indicator that is influenced by several characteristics at once. One of the most important is the video resolution.

Choosing an action camera for hobbyists usually involves models that provide high HD quality. But it is better to purchase a Full HD device, which corresponds to a resolution of 1920*1080. This will be enough for both amateur photography and for publishing high-quality videos on social networks, including on the YouTube channel.

However, if you analyze how to choose an action camera for slow motion, it is better to focus on models with a maximum resolution of 4K.These are advanced professional-level models that provide frame rates of 60 per second.

Frame frequency

Another characteristic of shooting quality that shows which action camera to choose is the frame rate. It is quite obvious that the larger the value, the higher quality the video will be. In addition, the picture will change more smoothly, which is especially important for scenes with jumps, stunts and other sudden movements.

For such purposes, it is better to choose an action camera with a minimum of 30 frames per second. But if higher quality shooting is required, it is worth considering devices with a frequency of 50-60. There are often models with 120 frames per second. However, you shouldn’t chase them, because such devices have a reduced resolution.

Viewing angle

Important characteristics of an action camera are also related to the viewing angle. It is clear that the greater this criterion, the more objects will be included in the frame. On the other hand, small angles also have their advantages, as they allow you to focus on a specific subject and capture it in detail. In addition, if the angle is small, it is more convenient in terms of not having to select the optimal angle.

The standard indicator is 120 degrees. But there are also wider ones - 130-170. In some cases, the maximum angle is 360 degrees. The choice of an action camera with this indicator is usually made by athletes and amateurs who prefer to shoot panoramic videos and photos.

Battery life

The battery characteristics of an action camera are not directly related to video quality, but they are also of great importance. Typically, devices work up to 2 hours on one full charge. This is quite enough for several dozen short videos.

On the other hand, if you plan to shoot for a long time, you need to choose devices with a long battery life (from 3-4 hours). The best action camera can shoot for 8-10 hours straight.

Additional features

Choosing the right action camera. To do this, you should consider additional functions:

1. Protection of the case from water - complete sealing allows for underwater photography. Although because of this, in the event of a breakdown, neither the battery nor other spare parts can be replaced.
2. When considering which is better - a video camera or an action camera, many pay attention to the type of signal transmission. All devices are able to communicate via Bluetooth. Also, many models are equipped with built-in Wi-Fi. Advanced versions have the ability to broadcast live to remote displays.
3. Since shooting may involve sudden movements, it is better to use action cameras with image stabilization. Such devices smooth out sudden movements and ensure smooth shooting.
4. It is quite common to find a camera with an external lens. It is equipped with a special module, which houses the matrix along with the lens. Thanks to this, the remote part can be placed in any place where it would not be possible to place a conventional device.
5. It is also useful to understand what fov is in an action camera. This is the name for the viewing angle, which can be either small (120 degrees) or extreme (360).

Top 10 best cameras

A video camera or an action camera are considered based on approximately the same characteristics. If you prepare a review taking into account not only technical parameters, but also user reviews, you will get the following rating:

1. GoPro Hero10 Black provides the highest quality video, works in 4K and 5K modes. Even with sudden movement, the frames change smoothly, and thanks to the presence of a stabilizer, the quality of the videos is comparable to the level of cinema.
2. Insta360 ONE RS Twin Edition has 2 lenses and a maximum viewing angle of 360 degrees. Resolution works in 5K mode. Thanks to the presence of a special application, you can use ready-made templates to create beautiful clips.
3. If you are considering which action camera to choose for YouTube, you can choose this model.
4. DJI Action 2 is a waterproof device weighing only 56 g. The blocks are fixed with magnets. The files are sent directly to the device’s memory. The touch screen provides comfortable control.
5. Akaso Brave 7 LE is equipped with a front screen, operates in 4K mode, and is sold at a very affordable price. Weights only 61 g, the case is completely waterproof.
6. GoPro Hero9 Black works in 5K mode, is equipped with an automatic processing option and a fairly simple interface. If you choose this model, there is no doubt about what is better – an action camera or a camera. Only action can provide high-quality shooting in conditions of sudden movements.
7. Insta360 Go 2 is a small device that resembles a classic flash card. Allows you to conduct hidden shooting, record tricks on skate areas thanks to its small size and weight of only 26.5 g.
8. The Akaso EK7000 is another good action camera to choose for the amateur. Provides shooting in 1080p format. Operates autonomously for 90 minutes when fully charged. It is possible to do slow motion or continuous shooting.
9. Apeman A100 is a device with a durable, waterproof casing and operates in 4K mode. Allows you to shoot for 150-180 minutes (on a full charge).
10. OCLU can perform the functions of not only an action camera, but also a car recorder, as well as a power bank. The case is waterproof, total weight is 101 g. Control is quite simple, using 3 buttons.

When choosing a specific model, you should take into account the manufacturer’s brand and price factor. Even for a very small amount you can purchase a high-quality device with an optimal price-quality ratio. Examples include OCLU or Akaso Brave 7 LE.