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9 Best Action Cameras 2026 in the United States
#1
Winner
GoPro HERO13 Black - Waterproof Action Camera with 5.3K60 Video, 27MP Photo + Compatability with HB-Series Lenses
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.
Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,113
Resolution
Durability and Waterproofing
Most important from
1834 reviews
#2
DJI Osmo Action 6 Enhanced Combo, Action Camera with 1/1.1″ Square Sensor, Variable Aperture of f/2.0–f/4.0, Extended Battery Life with 2 Batteries, Action Camera 8K for Extended Outdoor Filming
The DJI Osmo Action 6 Enhanced Combo is designed for outdoor enthusiasts and content creators who want high-quality 4K video with vibrant colors and sharp detail, thanks to its large 1/1.1" sensor and variable aperture (f/2.0–f/4.0) that adapts well to different lighting conditions. It supports up to 4 hours of continuous shooting with two batteries included, which is great for extended filming sessions. The camera is rugged enough to handle dives up to 20 meters without needing an extra case, making it a solid choice for water sports and adventures.
Rating
9.7
Resolution
Battery Life
Mounting Options
Most important from
538 reviews
#3
GoPro HERO12 Black - Waterproof Action Camera with 5.3K60 Ultra HD Video, 27MP Photos, HDR, 1/1.9" Image Sensor, Live Streaming, Webcam, Stabilization
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.
Rating
9.1
Resolution
Frame Rate
Image Stabilization
Most important from
1998 reviews
Top 9 Best Action Cameras 2026 in the United States
#1
Winner
GoPro HERO13 Black - Waterproof Action Camera with 5.3K60 Video, 27MP Photo + Compatability with HB-Series Lenses
GoPro HERO13 Black - Waterproof Action Camera with 5.3K60 Video, 27MP Photo + Compatability with HB-Series Lenses
Resolution: 5.3K
Frame Rate: 60 fps
Image Stabilization: Advanced stabilization
Durability and Waterproofing: Legendary durability, waterproof
Battery Life: Improved
Mounting Options: Various options
Connectivity: USB
Storage: Micro SD
Chosen by 1113 this week
DJI Osmo Action 6 Enhanced Combo, Action Camera with 1/1.1″ Square Sensor, Variable Aperture of f/2.0–f/4.0, Extended Battery Life with 2 Batteries, Action Camera 8K for Extended Outdoor Filming
DJI Osmo Action 6 Enhanced Combo, Action Camera with 1/1.1″ Square Sensor, Variable Aperture of f/2.0–f/4.0, Extended Battery Life with 2 Batteries, Action Camera 8K for Extended Outdoor Filming
Resolution: 4K
Durability and Waterproofing: waterproof up to 20 meters depth
Battery Life: up to 4 hours shooting
Mounting Options: extension rod, quick-release adapters
Connectivity: supports 2 DJI mics, voice, gesture
Storage: built-in 50GB, supports microSD cards
GoPro HERO12 Black - Waterproof Action Camera with 5.3K60 Ultra HD Video, 27MP Photos, HDR, 1/1.9" Image Sensor, Live Streaming, Webcam, Stabilization
GoPro HERO12 Black - Waterproof Action Camera with 5.3K60 Ultra HD Video, 27MP Photos, HDR, 1/1.9" Image Sensor, Live Streaming, Webcam, Stabilization
Resolution: 5.3K
Frame Rate: 60 fps
Image Stabilization: HyperSmooth 6.0
Durability and Waterproofing: Waterproof up to 33 feet
Mounting Options: Curved mount, mounting buckle
Connectivity: Bluetooth
Storage: Micro SD
DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro Adventure Combo, Action Camera 4K with 1/1.3" Sensor, 12h Extended Battery Life with 3 Batteries, Stabilization, Dual OLED Touchscreens, Mini Action Camera for Travel, Vlog
DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro Adventure Combo, Action Camera 4K with 1/1.3" Sensor, 12h Extended Battery Life with 3 Batteries, Stabilization, Dual OLED Touchscreens, Mini Action Camera for Travel, Vlog
Resolution: 4K
Image Stabilization: 360° HorizonSteady
Battery Life: Up to 4 hours per battery
Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi
Storage: microSD cards
Insta360 Ace Pro 2 Dual Battery Bundle - 8K Waterproof Action Camera Co-Engineered with Leica, 1/1.3" Sensor, Dual AI Chip, Leading Low Light, Superior Audio
Insta360 Ace Pro 2 Dual Battery Bundle - 8K Waterproof Action Camera Co-Engineered with Leica, 1/1.3" Sensor, Dual AI Chip, Leading Low Light, Superior Audio
Resolution: 8K
Frame Rate: 4K at 60 fps
Image Stabilization: FlowState technology
Durability and Waterproofing: Waterproof to 39 feet, cold proof
Battery Life: Improved with dual batteries
Mounting Options: Magnetic accessories
Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB
Storage: MicroSD cards
Related Products
Insta360 GO 3S - 128 GB Black 4K Tiny Portable Vlogging Camera, Hands-Free POVs, Mount Anywhere, Stabilization, 140 Min Battery Life, 10m Waterproof, Pet POV
Insta360 GO 3S - 128 GB Black 4K Tiny Portable Vlogging Camera, Hands-Free POVs, Mount Anywhere, Stabilization, 140 Min Battery Life, 10m Waterproof, Pet POV
Resolution: 4K
Image Stabilization: FlowState Stabilization with Horizon Lock
Durability and Waterproofing: IPX8 waterproof, Dive Case 60m
Battery Life: up to 140 minutes
Mounting Options: magnetic design
Connectivity: Wi-Fi
Storage: 128 GB internal memory
Insta360 X5 Virtual Tour Bundle - Waterproof 8K 360° Action Camera, Leading Low Light, Invisible Selfie Stick Effect, Rugged and Replaceable Lens, 3-Hour Battery, Built-in Wind Guard, Stabilization
Insta360 X5 Virtual Tour Bundle - Waterproof 8K 360° Action Camera, Leading Low Light, Invisible Selfie Stick Effect, Rugged and Replaceable Lens, 3-Hour Battery, Built-in Wind Guard, Stabilization
Resolution: 8K
Durability and Waterproofing: rugged, scratch-resistant lenses, waterproof body
Battery Life: up to 3 hours
Mounting Options: 114cm invisible selfie stick, tripod
Connectivity: USB
Storage: microSD cards, 256GB included
DJI Osmo Nano Standard Combo (128GB) - Small 4K/60fps Vlogging Camera with a 1/1.3″ Sensor, 143° Wide FOV Video, 200-Min Recording, Swift Content Transfer, Magnetic POV Cam 4K for Sports, Vlog
DJI Osmo Nano Standard Combo (128GB) - Small 4K/60fps Vlogging Camera with a 1/1.3″ Sensor, 143° Wide FOV Video, 200-Min Recording, Swift Content Transfer, Magnetic POV Cam 4K for Sports, Vlog
Resolution: 4K
Frame Rate: 60 fps
Durability and Waterproofing: waterproof up to 10 meters
Battery Life: up to 200 minutes
Mounting Options: magnetic hat clip, lanyard
Connectivity: fast transfer, DJI Mimo app
Storage: 128GB microSD card included
Insta360 X4 Air Starter Bundle - Lightweight 165g 8K 360 Camera, Invisible Selfie Stick, Replaceable Lenses, Shoot First & Frame Later, Built-in Wind Guard, FlowState Stabilization, AI-Powered App
Insta360 X4 Air Starter Bundle - Lightweight 165g 8K 360 Camera, Invisible Selfie Stick, Replaceable Lenses, Shoot First & Frame Later, Built-in Wind Guard, FlowState Stabilization, AI-Powered App
Resolution: 8K
Frame Rate: 30fps
Image Stabilization: FlowState with 360° horizon lock
Durability and Waterproofing: replaceable rugged lenses
Mounting Options: invisible selfie stick sold separately
Connectivity: Wi-Fi
Storage: microSD cards
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Buying Guide for the Best Action Cameras
When choosing an action camera, it's important to consider what you'll be using it for. Action cameras are designed to capture high-quality video and photos in extreme conditions, so you'll want to make sure the camera you choose can handle the activities you have in mind. Whether you're planning to use it for underwater diving, mountain biking, or just capturing everyday adventures, understanding the key specifications will help you make the best choice.ResolutionResolution refers to the number of pixels in each frame of video or photo. Higher resolution means more detail and clarity. Common resolutions for action cameras include 1080p (Full HD), 1440p, and 4K. If you plan to use your footage for professional purposes or want the highest quality possible, go for 4K. For everyday use and sharing on social media, 1080p or 1440p is usually sufficient.
Frame RateFrame rate is the number of frames captured per second (fps). Higher frame rates result in smoother video, especially during fast action scenes. Standard frame rates are 30fps and 60fps, but some cameras offer 120fps or even 240fps for slow-motion effects. If you want to capture fast-moving activities like sports, a higher frame rate is beneficial. For general use, 30fps or 60fps will work well.
Image StabilizationImage stabilization helps reduce blurriness and shakiness in your videos, which is especially important for action shots. There are two main types: electronic image stabilization (EIS) and optical image stabilization (OIS). EIS is more common in action cameras and works well for most activities. If you plan to record a lot of high-motion activities, look for a camera with good stabilization features.
Durability and WaterproofingAction cameras are often used in rugged environments, so durability and waterproofing are crucial. Many action cameras are built to withstand drops, dust, and water. Some are waterproof without a case, while others require a separate housing. If you plan to use your camera for underwater activities, make sure it can handle the depths you'll be diving to. For general outdoor use, check the camera's durability ratings.
Battery LifeBattery life determines how long you can use your camera before needing to recharge. Action cameras typically have a battery life ranging from 1 to 3 hours, depending on usage and settings. If you plan to use your camera for extended periods, look for one with a longer battery life or consider carrying extra batteries. For shorter activities, standard battery life should be sufficient.
Mounting OptionsMounting options refer to the different ways you can attach your action camera to various surfaces or gear. Common mounts include helmet mounts, chest mounts, and handlebar mounts. The more versatile the mounting options, the more creative you can get with your shots. Consider what activities you'll be doing and ensure the camera you choose has compatible mounts.
ConnectivityConnectivity features like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and GPS can enhance your action camera experience. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth allow you to connect your camera to your smartphone for easy sharing and remote control. GPS can track your location and add data to your videos. If you want to quickly share your adventures or need location data, look for a camera with these connectivity options.
StorageStorage refers to the type and capacity of memory cards the camera supports. Most action cameras use microSD cards, and the maximum supported capacity can vary. Higher resolution and frame rates require more storage space, so if you plan to shoot a lot of high-quality video, choose a camera that supports larger capacity cards. For occasional use, a camera with standard storage options will suffice.