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Action cameras are the perfect companion for capturing immersive and engaging footage during your travels. Whether you’re climbing, biking, surfing, or simply exploring new places, an action camera allows you to document your adventures and share them with others. In this article, we will explore the best action cameras for travel and discuss their features and specifications.
How we chose the best action cameras
At bestdealgopro.com, our team of experienced writers and editors has a deep understanding of different camera brands and genres, including action cameras. We selected the cameras included in this article based on a combination of hands-on experience, user and editorial reviews, and our knowledge of the brands.
When choosing the best action cameras, we considered various factors such as compactness, mounting options, durability, video and photo quality, stabilization, and other camera-specific features. We aimed to provide a comprehensive list of action cameras suitable for different types of travelers and adventurers.
Best Overall: GoPro Hero 11 Black
- Max video resolution: 5.3K at 60 fps
- Max framerate: 240 fps at 2.7K
- Photo resolution: 27 megapixels
- Waterproofing: 33 feet
- Dimensions: 2.8 x 2 x 1.3 inches
- Weight: 4.5 ounces
Pros:
– Improved photo performance
– New night modes add versatility
– Award-winning stabilization
– Vertical video support
Cons:
– Battery won’t last all day
The GoPro Hero 11 Black is widely regarded as one of the best action cameras on the market. It features a large sensor, allowing you to capture stunning 5.3K video at up to 60 fps. The camera also offers improved photo performance, with 27-megapixel photos and various shooting modes including time-lapse and night modes.
The Hero 11 Black is known for its award-winning stabilization, making your footage smooth even in the most rugged activities. It is waterproof up to 33 feet without a case and designed to withstand cold weather conditions, making it perfect for capturing winter sports. Overall, the GoPro Hero 11 Black is a versatile and impressive action camera suitable for any adventure.
Best for Vlogging: DJI Osmo Action
- Max video resolution: 4K at 120 fps
- Max framerate: 240 fps at 1080p
- Photo resolution: 12 megapixels
- Waterproofing: 52 feet
- Dimensions: 2.8 x 1.7 x 1.3 inches
- Weight: 5.1 ounces
Pros:
– More affordable than GoPro
– Waterproof down to 52 feet
– Front and rear touchscreen
– High-capacity battery for long recording sessions
Cons:
– Video quality tops out at 4K
– Limited photo quality
The DJI Osmo Action is a great alternative to the GoPro Hero 11 Black, especially for vloggers. It offers 4K video resolution at up to 120 fps and features a front and rear touchscreen for easy framing and navigation. The camera is waterproof down to 52 feet without a special housing, making it suitable for underwater adventures.
With its high-capacity battery, the DJI Osmo Action allows for long recording sessions without the need to constantly recharge. The camera also offers stabilization and various shooting modes, making it a versatile option for vloggers and content creators.
Best for 360-Degree Video: Insta360 X3
- Max video resolution: 5.7K 360-degree, 4K single-lens
- Max framerate: 60 fps at 4K
- Photo resolution: 72-megapixel 360-degree, 18-megapixel single-lens
- Waterproofing: 33 feet
- Dimensions: 4.5 x 1.8 x 1.3 inches
- Weight: 6.3 ounces
Pros:
– Impressive stabilization
– 360-degree video is highly immersive
– Lots of editing options
– Excellent photo and video quality
Cons:
– App is a little confusing to use
If you want to capture truly immersive videos of your travel adventures, the Insta360 X3 is the perfect choice. This action camera can record 360-degree video at up to 5.7K resolution and 30 fps. You can use the Insta360 mobile or desktop apps to edit your footage and showcase the best parts of each moment or the full 360-degree view.
The Insta360 X3 is highly versatile, allowing you to use a single lens or dual lenses for different shooting modes. It features impressive stabilization and a 6-axis gyroscope, ensuring smooth video even during fast-paced activities. The camera is also waterproof up to 33 feet without a case, making it suitable for various water sports.
Best Small: GoPro Hero 11 Black Mini
- Max video resolution: 5.3K at 60 fps
- Max framerate: 240 fps at 2.7K
- Photo resolution: 24.7 megapixels
- Waterproofing: 33 feet
- Dimensions: 2.1 x 2 x 1.5 inches
- Weight: 4.7 ounces
Pros:
– Tiny form factor is less intrusive
– Award-winning stabilization
– Excellent video quality
– Two mounting points
Cons:
– No display for framing
– No dedicated photo mode
For those concerned about wind resistance and drag, the GoPro Hero 11 Black Mini is the ideal choice. This camera is 13 percent smaller than the regular Hero 11 Black, making it more suitable for mounting on a helmet, surfboard, or airplane. Despite its smaller size, it offers similar features and specifications, including 5.3K video resolution, award-winning stabilization, and excellent video quality.
Products
The Hero 11 Black Mini features two mounting points, allowing for more versatility in how you mount the camera. However, it does not have a display for framing, so you’ll need to rely on the Quik app for camera setup and framing assistance. Overall, the GoPro Hero 11 Black Mini is a compact and powerful action camera suitable for various activities.
Best for Beginners: Insta360 GO 3
- Max video resolution: 2.7K at 30 fps
- Max framerate: 120 fps at 1080p
- Photo resolution: 6.6 megapixels
- Waterproofing: 16 feet
- Dimensions: 2.1 x 1 x 0.9 inches
- Weight: 1.3 ounces
Pros:
– Stabilized video
– Unique magnetic mounting options
– Versatile modular design with the Action Pod
– Tiny size is very convenient
Cons:
– Photos are only INSP or DNG
– Built-in memory is limiting
If you’re new to action cameras and want something small and convenient, the Insta360 GO 3 is a great choice. This camera weighs just 1.3 ounces and can be easily mounted on various surfaces thanks to its unique magnetic mounting system. It comes with multiple mounting devices, including a magnet pendant and Easy Clip, allowing you to wear the camera on your person.
The Insta360 GO 3 offers stabilized video at 2.7K resolution and 30 fps. While the video resolution may be lower compared to other cameras, it is more than sufficient for capturing travel memories and sharing them on social media. The camera also supports slow-motion footage at 1080p resolution and 120 fps. It is waterproof up to 16 feet on its own, and the included Action Pod extends the battery life and adds a flip touchscreen for easy control.
Best Budget: AKASO Brave 7 LE
- Max video resolution: 4K at 30 fps
- Max framerate: 120 fps at 720p
- Photo resolution: 20 megapixels
- Waterproofing: IPX7, 131 feet with included case
- Dimensions: 2.44 x 1.61 x 1.26 inches
- Weight: 4.64 ounces
Pros:
– Comes with a waterproof housing
– Front and rear-facing screen
– Stabilization is fairly effective
– Affordable
Cons:
– Photo and video quality are lacking
– Image stabilization results in a heavy crop
If you’re on a budget but still want a reliable action camera for your travels, the AKASO Brave 7 LE is a great option. This camera comes with a waterproof housing, allowing it to be used up to 131 feet underwater. It features a front and rear-facing screen, making it easy to frame your shots no matter which way you point the camera.
The AKASO Brave 7 LE offers 4K video resolution at 30 fps and 20-megapixel photo resolution. While the video and photo quality may not be as high as more expensive options, they are still sufficient for casual use and sharing on social media. The camera also provides stabilization and various shooting modes, making it a versatile and affordable choice for travelers.
Features to Consider when Shopping for Action Cameras
When shopping for the best action camera for your travel needs, there are several features to consider:
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Stabilization: Effective image stabilization is crucial for capturing smooth footage, especially during high-action activities. Look for cameras with advanced stabilization technology to ensure your videos are shake-free.
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Mounting Options: Consider the mounting options available for the camera, as this will determine how you can attach it to different surfaces or equipment. Ensure that the camera has compatible mounts for your preferred activities.
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Waterproofing and Build Quality: If you plan to use the camera in water or harsh environments, check the waterproofing rating and build quality. Some cameras are waterproof without a case, while others require additional housing for underwater use.
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Photo and Video Quality: Determine the resolution and quality of both photos and videos that the camera can capture. Higher resolutions are ideal for professional use, while lower resolutions may be sufficient for casual use or social media sharing.
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Size: Consider the size and weight of the camera, as this will affect its portability and ease of use. Smaller cameras are less intrusive and can be mounted in unique locations, but they may sacrifice some features or have shorter battery life.
By considering these features and your specific needs, you can choose the best action camera for your travel adventures.
In conclusion, action cameras are essential tools for capturing and sharing your travel experiences. The best action camera for you will depend on your specific needs, such as the activities you plan to engage in, the environments you will encounter, and the level of video and photo quality you desire. With the right action camera, you can document your adventures and create lasting memories.
