10 Best Action Cameras 2025 in the United States

The DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro is a strong choice for anyone who wants a reliable and versatile action camera, especially for sports, vlogging, and outdoor adventures. It records sharp 4K video at up to 120 frames per second, which means your footage will be smooth and detailed — great for fast action moments. The 1/1.3" sensor helps capture better images in low light, so nighttime or darker scenes are clearer than with many other cameras. One of its standout features is the advanced image stabilization, called 360° HorizonSteady, which keeps your videos steady even when your ride or run gets rough.

Two bright OLED touchscreens make framing shots and reviewing footage easy and fun. The camera is waterproof, rugged, and designed to handle active use, which is exactly what you'd want from an action camera. Battery life is impressive, running up to around 4 hours on a single charge — enough for long sessions without needing to swap batteries frequently. It connects via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, allowing smooth transfers and remote control through the DJI Mimo app, though downloading the app requires scanning a QR code instead of using Google Play, which could be a small inconvenience. Storage is handled through microSD cards, giving you flexibility to choose capacity based on your needs.

Audio quality is improved by support for DJI’s microphone system, which is a big plus if you want clear sound for vlogs or commentary. Some users might find the need to activate and update the device via the app a bit tricky, and the camera weighs a bit more than some ultra-compact models, but these are minor trade-offs for its strong video quality and stabilization. If you want an action camera that handles low light well, offers excellent stabilization, and provides good battery life with useful accessories, the Osmo Action 5 Pro is worth considering.

The GoPro HERO13 Black is a robust choice for anyone interested in capturing high-quality action footage. With an impressive video resolution of 5.3K at 60 frames per second, it ensures that your videos are clear and fluid, making it perfect for sports enthusiasts or travelers looking to document their adventures. The 27MP photo capability also offers vibrant still shots, so you won’t miss any great moments.

One of the standout features is its legendary durability and waterproofing, which allows you to take it underwater or in harsh environments without worrying about damage. The camera also boasts advanced image stabilization, which helps to smooth out shaky footage, a critical feature for fast-paced activities. Battery life has seen improvements, meaning you can record longer without the need for frequent recharges. Additionally, the HERO13 Black supports various mounting options, making it versatile for different activities, from biking to skydiving. Its USB connectivity and compatibility with HB-Series Lenses open up further creative possibilities.

There are a few drawbacks to consider. While the camera excels in many areas, the resolution and frame rate may require a powerful device for editing. New users might also find the multitude of features and settings a bit overwhelming initially. The included storage via micro SD cards is great, but you'll need to invest in higher-capacity cards to take full advantage of the high-resolution recording.

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.