Action cameras are one of the most rapidly growing and interesting sectors of the camera market.
You’ll find them popping up in all manner of places, even if you ordinarily might think that a cell phone camera does the job.
These are cameras that can handle all sorts of scenarios that your cell phone can’t. They’re (usually) waterproof, can stand to be chucked around, and give you the opportunity to record all of your various adventures.
You don’t need a huge budget to pick up an action camera, with some starting from as little as $50. Choose the best action camera from techspunk guide in your budget.
As you might expect, cameras at this end of the pricing spectrum aren’t always super reliable, but by the time you reach the $100-$150 mark, you start to get real quality.
Think about video quality before you pick up an action camera. 4K is starting to become the standard across all types of cameras, but some action models - especially the cheaper ones - stick to Full HD.
Also, think about frame rates - the higher the frame rate, the smoother your video will be.
Optical image stabilization is particularly important for action cameras, which tend to be used in bumpy situations, so that’s another specification to look out for.
1. GoPro Hero 6
GoPro is pretty much the dominant force in the action camera market, but with a camera that offers decent value for money, as well as some of the best specs available, it’s not hard to see why.
The GoPro Hero 6 isn’t the cheapest camera in our group - heck, it’s not even the cheapest GoPro camera in our group - but if you’re looking for something which ticks all the boxes, then the Hero 6 is the one to go for.
For your money, you get 4K video recording which is available up to 6ofps. Image stabilization is present - but note that you can only use it on frame rates up to 30fps.
It’s very well-performing and one of the main reasons for choosing the Hero 6 over the Hero 5, if your budget can stretch to it.
Voice control means you can get the Hero 6 to do a few things without needing to touch it. Waterproofing down to 32 feet is included without the need for any additional housing - but you can buy some separately if you want to go deeper.
Use the Hero 6’s inbuilt WiFi to connect to your phone, especially with the free QuikStories app, which collates clips together for something you can share on social media.