10 Best Action Cameras 2025 in the United States

The AKASO EK7000 is a budget-friendly action camera that offers impressive features for its price. It supports 4K video at 30 frames per second and 20MP photos, allowing for high-quality recordings and images. For those who enjoy outdoor adventures, the camera is designed to be durable and waterproof up to 131 feet with its protective case, making it suitable for underwater activities and harsh environments.

The built-in Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS) helps in capturing smooth and steady videos, which is a great addition for action-packed moments. Another convenient feature is the wireless wrist remote control, which allows you to frame shots and record videos easily, though it's worth noting that the remote is not waterproof. Connectivity options include built-in Wi-Fi and HDMI, enabling easy sharing and editing of your footage through the AKASO GO app.

The camera also supports an external microphone, which can be a plus for better audio quality. However, it's important to remember that the microSD card is not included, so you'll need to purchase that separately. The battery life is decent but may require carrying extra batteries for extended use. The mounting options are versatile, fitting various scenarios. The AKASO EK7000 is a solid choice for beginners or those on a budget who need a reliable and feature-rich action camera.

The Insta360 X5 is a high-end 360° action camera that shines with its impressive 8K resolution at 30 frames per second, capturing incredibly detailed and immersive videos. It stands out in low-light conditions thanks to a triple AI chip setup that reduces noise and improves clarity, making it reliable even when lighting isn't perfect. Image stabilization is handled very well through FlowState Stabilization and a 360° horizon lock, so your footage stays steady without extra equipment.

The camera is built tough, with waterproofing up to 49 feet without needing a case, making it great for underwater adventures or rough outdoor use. Battery life is strong, offering about 3 hours of shooting time and quick charging to 80% in just 20 minutes, which is convenient for long outings. The lens is replaceable and sturdy, adding to durability and versatility. While the camera supports microSD cards for storage, the card itself is not included, so you'll need to buy that separately.

Connectivity options are good, and the camera features a touchscreen for easy control. A neat feature is the invisible selfie stick effect, which lets you film without the stick showing up in your shots—although the stick is sold separately. The Insta360 app also helps by using AI to make quick edits or exports for sharing your adventures fast. If you want an action camera that combines top image quality, smooth video, and ruggedness for extreme environments, the Insta360 X5 is an excellent choice. Just keep in mind some accessories like the selfie stick and memory cards are extras to plan for.

The GoPro Hero12 Black E-Commerce Package is a top-tier action camera that stands out with its high-resolution 5.3K60 Ultra HD video and 27MP photos. This impressive resolution allows for incredibly detailed footage and photos, making it ideal for capturing high-action moments. The camera's image stabilization, known as HyperSmooth 6.0, ensures smooth and steady videos even in the most turbulent conditions, which is critical for action-packed adventures.

Additionally, the camera is highly durable and fully waterproof up to 33 feet (10 meters), making it suitable for extreme environments and underwater use. The battery life is another strong point, with up to 70 minutes of continuous recording at 5.3K60, thanks to the efficient Enduro battery. This extended battery life is a significant advantage for long recording sessions.

The camera also offers versatile mounting options, including a curved adhesive mount and mounting buckle, allowing you to attach it to various surfaces and gear. Connectivity is well-covered with Bluetooth audio connectivity for external microphones and earbuds, enhancing audio quality and enabling voice commands. Storage is handled through SD cards, which are widely available and easy to use. On the downside, the GoPro Hero12 Black is relatively expensive, and its high-resolution video files can take up considerable storage space and require a powerful computer for editing. Additionally, some users might find the camera's small screen size of 2.3 inches less convenient for framing shots and reviewing footage. Nonetheless, for those seeking a reliable, high-performance action camera with excellent video and photo quality, the GoPro Hero12 Black is a compelling choice.