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 Insta360 X4 is a standout action camera that caters especially well to adventure enthusiasts looking for high-quality video capture. With its ability to record in stunning 8K resolution and 5.7K at 60 frames per second, it excels in delivering immersive 360° video, making it perfect for capturing breathtaking landscapes or action-packed moments. The Active HDR feature enhances color accuracy, ensuring vibrant shots even in dynamic environments.

One of the notable advantages of the X4 is its versatility, allowing users to switch to 4K wide-angle filming at 170° MaxView, which is fantastic for standard action shots. The FlowState Stabilization technology ensures that your videos remain smooth and level, regardless of the intensity of your activities. Additionally, the 135-minute battery life, significantly improved from its predecessor, means less downtime and more shooting time.

Durability is another strong point; the X4 is designed to withstand tough conditions, being waterproof up to 33 feet without additional casing, and cold-resistant, allowing usage in temperatures as low as -4ºF. The inclusion of removable lens guards adds a layer of protection while making it easier to maintain. However, while the camera is packed with features, some users may find the initial learning curve a bit steep, particularly when it comes to utilizing the advanced AI editing functionalities and reframing capabilities. Additionally, the Invisible Selfie Stick effect, although innovative, requires a separate purchase of the stick for full effect, which may be an extra cost to factor in.