You don’t need to be a daredevil in a wingsuit to make use of an action camera.
You also don’t need to shell out top dollar for GoPro’s latest devices.
There are plenty of cheap GoPro alternatives, many of which have comparable features.
The DJI Action 2 is the closest rival to the quality of the latest GoPro Hero action camera. It’s available in the Power Combo package, or you can go for the pricier Dual-Screen Combo. The Action 2 features a wider lens than the GoPro, and while it doesn’t quite hit the video resolutions of that camera, the quality is still superb. You get 4K at 120fps video with image stabilization that rivals the best.
You get 4K at 120fps video with image stabilization that rivals the best.
The DJI Action 2 is one of the better direct rivals to GoPro.
It measures 1.5 x 1.5 x 0.9 inches and features a 2-inch display.
It weighs just 2oz and has a 12MP, 1/1.7-inch CMOS sensor with an f/2.8 155-degree FOV lens.
Its waterproof to 33 feet, meaning you might record almost any aquatic activity.
Magnets connect the camera to the extended battery module, mounts, and other accessories.
Fitting the camera to a tripod and turning off the stabilization will extend the battery life.
Although youll unlikely get near the advertised 180 minutes.
it’s possible for you to record your adventures in 4K at up to 120FPS.
However, like the GoPro, heat limits the recording of long videos.
You will need to shoot at lower resolutions and frame rates for long-form movies.
The interface is easy to use and understand, while the camera delivers some surprisingly good videos and photos.
This great little camera by AKASO is the V50X.
Its user interface has a super simple layout and runs smoothly.
Video quality is good in 4K at 30FPS, and the camera features effective image stabilization.
In fact, it probably has the best EIS of any action camera in this price range.
you might record smooth footage while running, cycling, or whichever your action is.
In 4K, you get a good amount of detail in your videos.
However, once you stop down to 1080p, things start going slightly south.
Video quality is substandard, and its recommended you stay at 4K.
The quality of stills is also good.
you could even get acceptable results in low light.
You might get some grain in your pictures, but they are presentable and pleasing for the price.
For newbies to action cameras, its another excellent choice.
With the Dragon Touch Vision 3 4K Action Camera, youre really moving into bang-for-your-buck territory.
If you prefer a higher frame rate, try 1080p at 60fps for perfectly decent quality.
it’s possible for you to also take vibrant 20MP stills with good color saturation and contrast.
As a beginner, youll appreciate the different shooting modes, from driving to timelapse.
You also get a handy wireless remote-control wristband with a 33-foot range.
You’ll also get plenty of action-camera practice before making the jump up to a more premium equipment.
The WOLFGANG GA400 is one of the companys better action cameras.
It boasts a 170-degree wide-angle lens with a 2-inch touchscreen on the back.
The Electronic Image Stabilization itself is pretty good for a camera at this price.
The package also ships with two 1,350mAh batteries, providing around one hour of recording time.
It comes with waterproof housing for scuba divers, and the included extra battery doubles your recording time.
The AKASO Brave 7 LE is a good, affordable alternative to the latest GoPro.
Its lightweight at just over 2.5oz, making it easy to travel with or even slip into a pocket.
And with its front and back screens, its a decent budget option for vloggers.
However, it isnt as waterproof as the GoPro.
With its IPX7 rating, the AKASO Brave 7 LE is only water-resistant.
Above water and with the sun shining, you could shoot surprisingly good 4K videos.
Recording is in 4K at 30fps, with different options if you want higher frame rates.
you might also shoot some decent stills in resolutions up to 20MP.
Images are bright and detailed with good contrast.
The camera also has 6-axis electronic image stabilization that smoothens your footage somewhat.
You cant expect GoPro Hero levels here, but it makes some improvements nonetheless.
It boasts 20MP stills and 4K video at 30fps or Full HD at 60fps.
The AKASO EK7000 Pro comes in at a fraction of the cost of the latest GoPro Hero.
And, at this price point, what can you honestly expect from an action camera?
Well, the answer is more than you think.
For smoother frame rates, you’ve got the option to film in Full HD at 60fps.
It also sports acceptable image stabilization, although this can result in a buzzing sound during video playback.
This housing allows you to take it to depths of 131 feet (40 meters).
Its also small, lightweight, and easily transportable.
The PROGRACE Kids camera is available in several colors and designs and won’t break the bank.
Younger children learning to cycle, skateboard, or even swim will naturally want their endeavors recorded.
However, you will unlikely want to risk an action camera worth several hundred dollars!
Thankfully, there are alternative options for kids, including the PROGRACE Kids Camera.
Nothing in the budget category can compare to what the GoPro can do.
For seasoned action camera photographers, devices like the GoPro Hero 12 are unrivaled.
However, there are even more affordable options than those two cameras that still offer good specs and performance.
The Dragon Touch Vision 3 is another 4K action camera that offers unbeatable bang for your buck.
