10 Best Cheap Action Cameras 2025 in the United States

The Insta360 X4 Standard Bundle is a compelling choice for those seeking a budget-friendly action camera with high-end features. One of its standout strengths is its impressive 8K 360° video resolution, offering highly detailed and immersive footage. It also supports 5.7K at 60fps and 4K at 60fps, catering to different filming needs and ensuring smooth video capture.

The camera's wide field of view, especially the 170° MaxView at 4K30fps, provides broad and dynamic shots which are great for capturing action scenes. Additionally, the FlowState Stabilization and 360° Horizon Lock technology ensure ultra-stable footage, even in intense action scenarios, making it ideal for sports and adventure enthusiasts. The battery life is another strong point, with up to 135 minutes of runtime, significantly longer than some competitors and enhanced by fast charging capabilities.

Durability is well addressed; the camera is both cold-resistant and waterproof up to 33ft without a dive case, demonstrating robust build quality for outdoor use. The removable lens guards and rugged design add to its resilience, protecting against damage during rough activities. The Insta360 X4 also offers convenient connectivity options with a Type-C cable included and is user-friendly with a bright 2.5-inch display.

The GoPro HERO13 Black is an advanced action camera that stands out with its impressive 5.3K video resolution at 60 frames per second, ensuring high-quality, smooth footage. The 27MP photo capability allows for sharp and detailed still images. This camera is built to withstand tough conditions, thanks to its legendary durability and waterproof design, making it ideal for adventurous activities.

With the inclusion of the new HB-Series Lenses, users can expect enhanced image quality and versatility in their shots. Additionally, the HERO13 Black features robust image stabilization, which helps in capturing stable and clear videos even during high-motion activities. The connectivity options, including USB, make it easy to transfer files and charge the device. The camera also supports a Micro SD card for ample storage.

The battery life, while more powerful than previous models, may still require users to carry spare batteries for extended shooting sessions. The 2.27-inch screen is relatively small but functional for basic navigation and framing shots. While it offers diverse mounting options, some users might find the additional accessories necessary for various mounting setups a bit pricey. With a weight of 5.5 ounces, it is lightweight and portable. Suitable for creators and adventurers who need a reliable and high-performing action camera, the GoPro HERO13 Black is a solid choice despite some minor drawbacks.

The GoPro Hero12 Black stands out as a high-resolution action camera with 5.3K60 Ultra HD video and 27MP photos, offering significantly detailed imaging. Its HDR feature ensures excellent color accuracy and detail even in varying lighting conditions. The 1/1.9" image sensor provides an expansive field of view, ideal for capturing immersive footage. This camera is also designed for durability, being rugged and waterproof up to 33 feet (10 meters), perfect for adventurous environments.

The Enduro battery enhances battery life, giving you up to 70 minutes of continuous recording at the highest resolution, which is a considerable improvement over previous models. Additionally, Emmy Award-winning HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilization ensures smooth footage even in shaky conditions, and the 360° Horizon Lock keeps your shots level without needing a gimbal. For those who love slow motion, the Hero12 Black can capture up to 8x slo-mo in 2.7K resolution.

Connectivity is a strong point, with Bluetooth allowing for wireless audio connections to external microphones or earbuds, improving audio quality and convenience. However, despite these strengths, the GoPro Hero12 Black leans towards the higher end of the price spectrum for 'cheap' action cameras, which might not align with budget-conscious users. The camera is also relatively heavier at 12 ounces and its small 2.3-inch screen size could be less user-friendly for those who prefer larger displays. Potential buyers should weigh their need for high-end features against their budget constraints.