September 2023
Action Video Cameras: MetaRanking
This page highlights the aggregate summary of action video cameras rankings posted by key online experts, as of September 2023.
Summary
On 2 Sep 2023, ReviewFinder team examined a total of 76 action camera endorsements from 10 reputable publishers.
26 action cameras were endorsed in total, only 15 made it into this month's ranking. (ReviewFinder requires a minimum of 2 endorsements to be included)
As of 2 Sep 2023, GoPro Hero11 Black takes the cake as the most critically-acclaimed action camera with 9 expert endorsements. 7 experts out of 9 recommended it as the '#1 action camera' this month.
Brand breakdown
-
insta360: 6 action cameras
(#1 is Insta360 X3)
-
GoPro: 5 action cameras
(#1 is GoPro Hero11 Black)
-
DJI: 4 action cameras
(#1 is DJI Osmo Action 3)
-
Akaso: 3 action cameras
(#1 is Akaso Brave 7 LE)
-
Olympus: 1 action cameras
(#1 is Olympus Tough TG-6)
Price breakdown
At a glance - September Ranking
| Rank | Change | Price | Action Camera |
TechRadar
|
PCMag
|
Rtings.com
|
WIRED
|
Wirecutter
|
Camera Jabber
|
Pocket-lint
|
Tom's Guide
|
T3
|
Digital Camera World
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1
|
- | $338 |
GoPro Hero11 Black
The GoPro Hero11 Black is a highly praised action camera that offers impressive video quality, durability, and user-friendly features, making it ideal for capturing high-resolution footage in various scenarios.
|
1
|
1
|
-
|
1
|
3
|
1
|
1
|
1
|
2
|
1
|
|
2
|
- | $249 |
GoPro Hero10 Black
The GoPro Hero10 Black is a highly praised action camera that offers exceptional video quality, durability, and user-friendly features, making it suitable for a wide range of use cases.
|
9
|
-
|
1
|
4
|
1
|
3
|
5
|
3
|
3
|
-
|
|
3
|
+1 | $450 |
Insta360 X3
The Insta360 X3 is a 360-degree camera with impressive video quality, image stabilization, and durability, making it a reliable choice for capturing high-quality footage in various environments and for different purposes.
|
-
|
2
|
-
|
5
|
4
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
2
|
|
4
|
-1 | $329 |
DJI Osmo Action 3
The DJI Osmo Action 3 is a highly recommended action camera that offers impressive video quality, durability, user-friendly interface, and bundled accessories for enhanced shooting capabilities in various scenarios.
|
4
|
-
|
-
|
3
|
-
|
2
|
-
|
5
|
6
|
6
|
|
5
|
- | $249 |
GoPro Hero 9 Black
The GoPro Hero 9 Black is a highly praised action camera known for its exceptional video quality, durability, and user-friendly interface, making it a versatile choice for capturing action-packed footage and creating high-quality videos.
|
-
|
5
|
-
|
8
|
2
|
6
|
-
|
6
|
7
|
-
|
|
6
|
- | $405 |
Insta360 One RS
The Insta360 One RS Action Camera receives positive reviews for its impressive video quality, image stabilization, flexible storage options, durability, user-friendly interface, and range of accessories, making it a great choice for action-packed activities and professional photographers or videographers.
|
-
|
8
|
-
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
4
|
2
|
4
|
-
|
|
7
|
- | $400 |
Insta360 Go 3
The Insta360 Go 3 is a compact camera with impressive video quality, user-friendly features, and a range of accessories, making it suitable for various use cases.
|
6
|
7
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
3
|
4
|
5
|
-
|
|
8
|
- | $277 |
DJI Action 2
The DJI Action 2 is a versatile action camera with impressive video quality, image stabilization, and a range of accessories, but it may struggle in low light conditions.
|
-
|
3
|
-
|
9
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
9
|
4
|
|
9
|
- | $112 |
Akaso Brave 7 LE
The Akaso Brave 7 LE action camera receives positive reviews for its video quality, storage options, durability, battery life, user interface, and included accessories, making it a reliable and versatile option for outdoor activities.
|
2
|
-
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
8
|
|
10
|
New * | $500 |
DJI Osmo Action 4
The DJI Osmo Action 4 is a highly recommended action camera with excellent image stabilization, impressive video quality, and a range of convenient features, making it a versatile choice for action enthusiasts and videographers.
|
-
|
4
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
2
|
-
|
8
|
-
|
|
11
|
- | $349 |
DJI Pocket 2
The DJI Pocket 2 is a compact camera with impressive video stabilization and decent video quality, making it a suitable choice for vloggers and videographers, although it may not be ideal for action shots or in rugged environments.
|
7
|
-
|
5
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
5
|
|
12
|
- | $248 |
GoPro Hero11 Black Mini
The GoPro Hero11 Black Mini is a highly recommended action camera that excels in video quality, durability, and user interface, making it a top choice for outdoor and sports enthusiasts.
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
5
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
3
|
|
13
|
-3 | Check price |
Insta360 Go 2
The Insta360 Go 2 is a compact camera with impressive video quality, reliable image stabilization, user-friendly interface, and a range of accessories that enhance its versatility and usability.
|
-
|
-
|
4
|
-
|
-
|
7
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
14
|
-1 | $399 |
GoPro Max
The GoPro Max is a highly recommended 360-degree camera that offers excellent video quality, image stabilization, and durability, making it ideal for capturing immersive footage in action-packed scenarios or for creating virtual reality content.
|
5
|
6
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
15
|
-1 | $499 |
Olympus Tough TG-6
The Olympus Tough TG-6 is a versatile and durable camera that offers good video quality, making it ideal for capturing action and outdoor adventures, although some reviewers have mentioned issues with audio quality in video recordings.
|
8
|
-
|
-
|
6
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
We ranked GoPro Hero11 Black #1 in September 2023 because:
- 9 independent experts mentioned it in their “best action video cameras” rankings.
- Out of those, 7 experts ranked GoPro Hero11 Black as #1.
TechRadar
The best action camera for most people
|
Versatile aspect ratio for cropping
10-bit mode useful for color grading
|
Still not great in low lighting
Budget rivals offer better value
|
PCMag
Best Action Cam Overall / Editors' Choice
|
Great-looking 5.3K60 video
4K120 and 2.7K240 slow-motion
10-bit color sampling
Numerous time-lapse modes
Waterproof to 33 feet
Solid touch interface and voice command support
Subscription service with useful features
|
Not ideal for long-form recording or macro work
One battery won't get you through the day
|
Camera Jabber
|
Great quality video
Excellent stabilisation and horizon correction
4K 120p video for slow motion creation
|
Doesn't make a significant step-up from Hero10 Black
Can be hard to open the battery compartment
First time connection with a smartphone can be very frustrating
|
Pocket-lint
Best action camera overall
|
Best in class stabilisation
10-bit colour video capture with high bitrate
Extremely wide HyperView digital lens
|
Fairly bulky
Quite expensive
|
Tom's Guide
The best action camera overall
|
Innovative editing features
Larger image sensor
Amazing motion stabilization
|
Bulky
|
T3
Best Action Camera for Vlogging
|
New sensor amps up the quality everywhere
Better battery life
Same physical dimensions as the Hero 10
|
Only incremental improvements over older model
|
Digital Camera World
The TikTok-ready action cam adds simplicity, and a new 8:7 sensor / Editor's Choice
|
Captures versatile 8:7 content
Excellent image stabilization
Horizon locking at up to 5.3K
Simplified interface for beginners
|
Lowlight video isn't great
Front display is not touch sensitive
GoPro membership required to unlock features
|
We ranked GoPro Hero10 Black #2 in September 2023 because:
- 8 independent experts mentioned it in their “best action video cameras” rankings.
- Out of those, 2 experts ranked GoPro Hero10 Black as #1.
TechRadar
The best value older GoPro still available
|
Powerful new processor
Handy 4K/120p mode
Class-leading stabilization
|
Same sensor as Hero 9 Black
Pricier than rivals
|
Pocket-lint
Best value action camera
|
The best image quality around
Incredible image stabilisation
Extreme high resolution and frame rate options
|
Relatively heavy
Can be prone to overheating
|
Tom's Guide
GoPro's older, but still very capable action camera
|
Excellent image stabilization
Removable lens
Media “Mods” add functionality
|
Heavy
|
T3
Top-specced action camera for outdoor enthusiasts
|
Speedy and slick thanks to new processor
Higher resolution and framerate than H9
Water-repelling lens cover
Horizon leveling up to 45-degree tilt
|
Most expensive option
Battery can struggle to keep up
|
Methodology: combine opinions of key experts
Identify Experts
We identify key publishers and experts that consistently review and recommend action video cameras.
Capture Rankings
For each publisher we find a currently recommended "top 10" list of action video cameras, it must be updated in the last 9 months.
Aggregate Rankings
We put all those lists together and aggregate them. The more frequently a product is recommended, the higher it is in our ranking
Experts chosen for September 2023 ranking
TechRadar
PCMag
Rtings.com
WIRED
Wirecutter
Camera Jabber
Pocket-lint
Tom's Guide
T3
Digital Camera World
We ranked Insta360 X3 #3 in September 2023 because:
- 5 independent experts mentioned it in their “best action video cameras” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Insta360 X3 as #1.
PCMag
Best 360 Camera for Creators / Editors' Choice
|
5.7K30 HDR video
Slim, waterproof build
Big touch screen with straightforward interface
Robust desktop and mobile editing tools
Loads of capture modes
|
Video must be processed before editing
A bit of a learning curve to grasp 360-degree editing
Mobile editing app limits resolution
|
T3
Best action camera to buy right now
|
AI-powered in-app image editing
Solid image performance
Waterproof and rugged design
Allows you to create horizontal and vertical videos of the same footage
Can be used as a webcam
|
Stitching is still not perfect
|
Digital Camera World
The best action cam for all-round 360-degree action
|
Phone-based editing
Big touchscreen
Familiar size and shape
|
We wish GPS was built into
5.7K isn't much when re-framing
|
We ranked DJI Osmo Action 3 #4 in September 2023 because:
- 6 independent experts mentioned it in their “best action video cameras” rankings.
TechRadar
The best value alternative to the GoPro Hero 11
|
Best-in-class diving specs
Convenient mounting setup
|
Poor low-light performance
Video quality can’t compete with GoPro
|
Tom's Guide
A great budget GoPro alternative
|
Solid video quality
Innovative mounting options
More affordable than a GoPro
|
Photo quality is limited to 12 MP
Upload and edit process is entirely manual
|
T3
Best value-for-money action camera from DJI
|
Excellent value for money
Light and compact body with two LCDs
Can shoot photos in RAW
Excellent battery life
Magnetic mounting is very convenient
|
Comparatively small sensor (poor low-light performance)
Lower maximum video resolution than GoPro HERO 11 Black
No global positioning (a.k.a. GNSS)
|
Digital Camera World
Best action camera for low light work
|
Dual touchscreen control
Good vlogging tool in vertical or horizontal
No module confusion (compared to Action 2)
Extreme batteries included as standard
Cheaper than GoPro
No subscription payments required
|
12-megapixel images and 4K maximum video resolution
No period of cloud backup included
We’d like to see a start and stop timer
Vertical format use requires frame
Voice control somewhat spotty
|
We ranked GoPro Hero 9 Black #5 in September 2023 because:
- 6 independent experts mentioned it in their “best action video cameras” rankings.
PCMag
Best GoPro for Budget Shoppers
|
Up to 5K quality at 30fps
Front-facing color LCD
Exceptional video stabilization
Up to 240fps HD slow motion
Time-lapse, buffering, and HDR imaging
USB-C charging
Strong app support
Compact and waterproof
|
You'll likely want to carry extra batteries
Subscription service adds recurring costs
Discounted pricing not available from all retailers
|
Camera Jabber
|
No need for waterproof housing
Dual Screen
8X Slow-motion
|
Mods are expensive
Not great in low light
|
Tom's Guide
An older GoPro
|
Front-facing screen
Removable lens
Media “Mods” add functionality
|
Heavy
|
T3
Best affordable GoPro action camera
|
Integrated front-facing screen
Removable lens cover
Native horizon levelling
Very easy to use
|
Not quite as slick as the HERO 10
No hydrophobic lens cover
|
We ranked Insta360 One RS #6 in September 2023 because:
- 5 independent experts mentioned it in their “best action video cameras” rankings.
PCMag
Best for Mixing 360 and 4K Footage
|
Compact design
Swappable lens modules
Waterproof to 16 feet
Stabilized 4K60 and 5.7K 360 video
HDR available at 4K30
2:35 wide-screen mode
Mobile and desktop app support
|
In-camera mics disappoint outdoors
Modular design can get in the way
Small touch LCD
Battery only good for 75 minutes of 4K
Heat can limit long-form recordings
|
Pocket-lint
Best modular action camera
|
The most configurable of the bunch
Robust and waterproof despite modularity
Up to three cameras in one
|
Small screen
Can't compete with GoPro on image quality
|
Tom's Guide
This 360 camera has a modular design
|
Innovative modular design
Multiple lens options including 360 lens
Reversible screen for front facing option
Impressive in-camera stabilization
|
Small screen size
Needs frame for mounting
|
T3
Best action camera for versatility
|
Compelling modular design
Outstanding image quality
Good battery life
|
Fiddly SD/Charge port cover
|
We ranked Insta360 Go 3 #7 in September 2023 because:
- 5 independent experts mentioned it in their “best action video cameras” rankings.
TechRadar
The best modular action camera with a tiny design
|
Action Pod adds lots of functionality
Convenient magnetic mounting
|
Lower resolution than rivals
Weak low-light performance
|
PCMag
Best Wearable Action Cam
|
Stabilized 2.7K30 video
Versatile, ultra-compact design
Waterproof to 16 feet
Action Pod attachment has flip-forward touch LCD
|
Action Pod housing isn't submersible
Non-removable battery and no storage expansion slot
Some video modes require post-processing
Wearable footage looks unsteady
|
Pocket-lint
Best micro action camera
|
Tiny and unobtrusive
Remote monitoring with the Action Pod
Excellent mounting options
|
Quality can't compare to larger cameras
More expensive than its predecessor
|
Tom's Guide
The best tiny action camera
|
Incredibly small
Good looking 2.7K video
Great auto mode and filters
No recording time limit
|
No removable storage
Camera gets warm
No external mic support
Poor low light performance
|
T3
Best action camera for POV shooting
|
Versatile shooting modes
New magnetic mount system works with or without Action Pod
Action Pod allows for smoother on-the-go operation than GO 2's clamshell pod
|
Resolution doesn't match full-size action cameras
It would be great if the action cam had a replaceable battery so you could record POV footage for longer
|
We ranked DJI Action 2 #8 in September 2023 because:
- 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best action video cameras” rankings.
PCMag
Most Innovative Design
|
Tiny, go-anywhere form factor
Magnetic mount and snap-on accessories
Effective digital stabilization
Up to 4K120 video
12MP photos
Waterproof to 33 feet
Works as a webcam
|
Front screen option pushes price high
Overheating is a concern
No card slot or charging port on main camera module
Front screen and battery aren't waterproof
|
T3
An innovative, modular action cam
|
Compact and lightweight
Modular, magnetic system is inspired
Excellent image stabilisation
|
Overheating cuts off video clips
Not great in low light
|
Digital Camera World
The Best Modular Action Camera
|
Use compact or with combo unit
Dual touchscreen interface
Live streaming
|
Internal storage in camera (microSD cards need secondary unit)
Secondary unit must be attached to charge or use memory cards
|
We ranked Akaso Brave 7 LE #9 in September 2023 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best action video cameras” rankings.
TechRadar
The best cheap action camera you can buy
|
Dual screens
Case-free water resistance
Class-leading build quality
|
Poor 60fps footage
Jumpy electronic stabilization
Cheaper options have better 4K
|
Digital Camera World
Best Budget action camera
|
Front LCD screen
4K video capture
6-axis stabilization
Low price
|
Needs to be put in case to be fully waterproof
|
We ranked DJI Osmo Action 4 #10 in September 2023 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best action video cameras” rankings.
PCMag
Best Low-Light Action Cam
|
Wide-angle lens with excellent digital stabilization
Front and rear touch screens
Up to 4K120 slow motion
10-bit D-Log color
Waterproof to 59 feet
Works as a webcam
|
Smartphone-based product activation
Quick-release mount is easy to lose
Rear display isn't visible through polarized sunglasses
|
Pocket-lint
Best action camera for low-light
|
Unmatched low-light performance
Brilliant front-facing touchscreen
Awesome magnetic mounting system
|
Very similar to its predecessor
On the pricey side
|
T3
Best action camera for
|
Improved low-light performance
Goes 18m/59ft underwater without a case
Front and rear LCD touchscreens
Accessory can collect GPS data
Easy to swap between horizontal and vertical
|
No 5.7K video resolution
Small upgrade on predecessor
|
We ranked DJI Pocket 2 #11 in September 2023 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best action video cameras” rankings.
TechRadar
The best action camera for handheld vlogging
|
Useful gimbal stabilization
Impressive tracking
|
Poor low light performance
Can get hot while filming 4K
|
Digital Camera World
Best gimbal-stabilized action camera
|
Sensational stabilization
Fantastic pocketability
Simple operation
|
Relies heavily on extras and accessories
|
We ranked GoPro Hero11 Black Mini #12 in September 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best action video cameras” rankings.
Digital Camera World
best mini action camera
|
Up to 5.3K video
4K at 120fps and 2.7K at 240fps
Dual mounting points
|
No touchscreen
Still bigger than Hero Session
Battery can't be swapped
|
We ranked Insta360 Go 2 #13 in September 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best action video cameras” rankings.
Camera Jabber
|
Miniscule size
Easy to use
Waterproof
Good video quality
|
No 4K video
No microSD card slot
|
We ranked GoPro Max #14 in September 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best action video cameras” rankings.
TechRadar
The best action camera for shooting in 360
|
Shoots 5.6K, 360-degree video
In-camera stitching
|
Low-resolution 2D footage
Not the best in low light
|
PCMag
Best Audio in a 360 Cam
|
360-degree capture
Also works as a single-lens camera
Intuitive software tools
Strong stabilization
Good in-camera audio
Waterproof without a case
Integrated mounting clips
|
Effective resolution is really 1080p
Single-lens capture tops out at 60fps
Requires more editing time to get the best results from spherical footage
|
We ranked Olympus Tough TG-6 #15 in September 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best action video cameras” rankings.
TechRadar
The best tough compact camera for action
|
Internally stacked zoom lens
Up to 4K video resolution
|
Quality drops in bright conditions
Small sensor at its core
|