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 action camera is a strong contender for those seeking high-quality video and photo capabilities. It boasts an impressive 5.3K resolution at 60 frames per second, providing ultra-clear and detailed footage that is ideal for capturing fast-paced action. The camera also excels in photo quality, offering 27MP images and the ability to extract 24.7MP stills from video clips through the GoPro Quik app.

One of the standout features is its Emmy Award-winning HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilization, which ensures smooth footage even in the most dynamic environments. This makes it a great choice for activities such as biking, skiing, or any adventure where there is a lot of movement. Its robust build is designed to withstand tough conditions, being waterproof up to 33 feet (10 meters), allowing users to film underwater without fear of damage.

HDR capability enhances both video and photo quality by capturing details in both shadows and highlights, thus making it perfect for scenes with varying lighting conditions. This ensures vibrant and true-to-life images and videos, which is a great advantage for action sports enthusiasts.

The camera's connectivity options include Bluetooth, but the lack of Wi-Fi might be a limitation for some users who prefer quick wireless transfers. The included accessories, such as a curved adhesive mount and a mounting buckle, provide versatile mounting options, though more advanced mounts might be necessary for specific activities.

Battery life is not specified in detail but comes with an Enduro rechargeable battery known for better performance in cold weather, which could be a significant advantage in extreme conditions. The GoPro HERO12 Black is well-suited for adventurers and sports enthusiasts who need a durable camera with superior image quality and stabilization. However, those needing extensive connectivity options might find it somewhat lacking.