In recent weeks, you may have seen a lot of chatter and hype regarding the latest action camera releases. Filmmakers and online video creators can now choose from the GoPro Hero 13, DJI’s Osmo Action 5 Pro and Insta360’s Ace Pro 2. All of them are standout action cameras in their own right and come with a slew of incredible features that push the boundaries of what’s possible in this camera format.
So, how do you choose? To answer that, let’s tackle a few key questions, including what exactly makes an action camera an action camera, and how best to film with one. You’ll also read thoughts on the three latest flagship offerings, alongside a few essential gear recommendations to help you get the most out of your new purchase.
What is an action camera?
First of all, what is an action camera? The clue is in the name here — it’s any type of small, rugged camera that’s been built and designed for ‘action’. This broad term covers everything from skiing to surfing, hiking, paragliding and just about everything in between.
The main characteristics of an action camera
A great action camera is almost always going to be a compact, rugged, and waterproof camera that’s been designed to capture high-quality video and photos in extreme or fast-paced environments. With these factors in mind, it’s typically lightweight and portable, with a wide-angle lens to capture immersive, exciting footage both above land and underwater.
Action cameras are most popular for activities like sports, outdoor adventures, and travel, and they’ll often feature image stabilization and 4K video recording, as well as mounts that allow them to be attached to helmets, bikes, or other gear. The mark of the best action camera on the market is in the build quality — it can withstand the rough conditions you put it through, while continuing to deliver crisp, dynamic shots.
Top tips on filming with action cameras
Here are six top tips on how to film with an action camera.
1. Use the right mount
You always want to make sure that your action camera is securely mounted for stability, whether it’s on a helmet, bike, or strapped to your chest. This helps create steady, immersive shots without constant camera handling. Buying an action camera head mount and other various mounts is always a great idea.
2. Leverage that wide-angle lens
Action cameras often have really wide lenses, so you want to get as close to the action as possible to avoid distant or underwhelming footage. This helps to create a dynamic, first-person perspective.
3. Enable image stabilization
The best action cameras all offer amazing image stabilization features nowadays, which smooth out shaky footage, especially during fast movements like biking or running. Make sure this setting is enabled whenever possible.
4. Experiment with different angles
Action cameras are really small and compact, which means you can position them in places you wouldn’t normally be able to if you were using a DSLR or mirrorless camera. Remember to get creative with your camera placement and angles — try low angles, top-down views, or unique perspectives to make your shots stand out.
5. Think about lighting
Action cameras usually have quite small sensors in comparison to other types of cameras, so make sure to shoot in well-lit environments for the best quality footage. If you’re filming in low light, use in-camera settings that optimize exposure.
6. Try out different video modes
Each action camera comes packed with different video modes for you to try out. Time lapses are always a great way to make your videos more dynamic, while shooting in slow motion is what action cameras were made for!
What is the best action camera on the market right now?
So, with all of the above information in mind, what’s the best action camera for you? As mentioned, there are a few top competitors. Let’s dive into each in a little more detail to help you decide which one is the right fit for your needs.
Insta360 Ace Pro 2
Insta360 have been busy setting the pace in the world of 360 video with their latest X4 release, but they’re also pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with a classic action camera. Their new release, the Ace Pro 2, builds on the success of the original Ace Pro and solidifies its position as one of the “big three”.
The core marketing for the Ace Pro 2 is that it can record 8K video, but its real strength lies in its overall video performance. Small, lightweight, and rugged, this action camera excels with its 4K video capabilities, offering great stabilization and a new I-log picture profile for improved dynamic range and color. The large 1/1.3 inch sensor developed in collaboration with Leica guarantees beautiful image quality, and it’s particularly amazing in low-light conditions thanks to the PureVideo Plus setting.
Additionally, the Ace Pro 2 boasts an action camera first with dual AI chips, providing more shooting modes at higher specifications, making it ideal for fast-moving motion and high-intensity action. The flip touchscreen is now larger and sturdier than its predecessor, and in another first for action cameras, there’s an innovative, removable wind guard design that keeps wind and noise at a minimum during those peak moments.
Insta360 Ace Pro 2 specs at a glance
| Sensor | 1/1.3-inch |
| Video | 8K/30p, 4K/120p, FHD/240p |
| Photo | 50MP / 12.5MP |
| Screen | 2.5-inch flip touchscreen |
| Video modes | Video, FreeFrame Video, PureVideo, Slow Motion, Starlapse, Timelapse, TimeShift, Loop, Dashcam, Pre-Recording |
| Connectivity | USB-C 3.0, Bluetooth 5.2, Dual-band Wi-Fi |
| Weight | 177g |
| Dimensions | 71.9 x 52.2 x 38mm |
GoPro Hero 13 Black
GoPro practically created the action camera niche from scratch, and for a long time dominated it. But with competitors now catching up, can it remain number one? The GoPro Hero 13 Black is, as expected, a solid entry to their most famous camera lineup.
The best way to describe the GoPro Hero 13 Black is that it offers a refined upgrade on its predecessor, the Hero Black 12. It remains a polished 5.3K shooter with enhanced slow-motion capabilities, a new lens, and ND filter accessories, along with easier magnetic mounting, all combining to make it a more well-rounded option for serious filmmakers. The auto-detection feature for the new HB-series lenses and the Macro Lens Mod are particularly impressive, especially for vlogging purposes.
Pros include a superb range of accessories, improved battery life, better heat dissipation, and excellent 5.3K video quality. However, the sensor and resolution remain unchanged from the Hero Black 12, the slow-motion processing takes time, and it’s clear that Insta360 cameras still perform better in low-light scenarios. The additional cost of Lens Mods can also add up.
GoPro Hero 13 Black specs at a glance
| Sensor | 1/1.9-inch, 27MP multi-aspect 8:7 |
| Video | 5.3K 60fps, 4K 120fps, slow-mo 720p 400fps |
| Photo | 27MP |
| Screen | 2.27-inch rear touchscreen, 1.4-inch front |
| Video modes | TimeWarp, Time Lapse, Slo-Mo, Night |
| Connectivity | USB-C 3.2, Wi-Fi 6GHz, Bluetooth 5.0 |
| Weight | 159g |
| Dimensions | 71.8 x 50.8 x 33.6 mm |
DJI Osmo Action 5
Last, but certainly not least, the Osmo Action 5 Pro shows that DJI is a strong competitor in the action camera market, rivaling GoPro with its excellent all-around performance. More waterproof and freeze-proof than its rivals, it also boasts longer battery life and close compatibility with the DJI Mic 2 for crisp wireless audio. Its versatility and range of features make it a great choice for content creators and vloggers alike.
Key pros include good dynamic range and detail, dual OLED screens, waterproofing up to 20m without a case, long battery life, and seamless integration with the DJI Mic 2. However, it lacks a 5.3K+ video option, and its SuperNight mode pales in comparison with the Insta360 Ace Pro 2.
DJI Osmo Action 5 specs at a glance
| Sensor | 1/1.3” CMOS |
| Video | Up to 4K/120fps |
| Photo | 40MP |
| Screen | 2.5-inch rear OLED touchscreen, 1.46-inch OLED touchscreen front |
| Video modes | Standard, Slo-Mo, SuperNight, Hyperlapse, Subject Tracking |
| Connectivity | USB-C 3.0, Wi-Fi 6.0, Bluetooth |
| Weight | 145g |
| Dimensions | 70.5 x 44.2 x 32.8 mm |
Action camera gear
If you really want to get the most out of your action camera, then you need to invest in additional gear. Here are a few essentials to get you started.
Action camera protector
Your action camera is rugged and durable, but there’s no harm in buying a lens or body protector for when it’s not in use.
Action camera head mount
For really fun, interesting shots that offer the unique perspective only an action camera can, you should get a head mount.
Action camera body mount
Alongside a head mount, a body mount is also a great idea for those classic POV shots.
Tripod
If you’re looking to vlog with your action camera, then having a tripod with you is always a good idea. It helps you set up a variety of interesting shots, as well as keeping your hands off the camera body, ensuring there are no unwanted scuffs or scratches on the audio.
Extra batteries
While the battery life of action cameras is getting better and better, it’s always a good idea to have a spare on hand. Sometimes you might be out in the middle of nowhere with no opportunity to charge for days on end, so an extra battery is going to come in very handy.
SD Card
A micro SD card is going to be essential for storing high-quality footage and ensuring smooth recording at higher frame rates.
The final verdict
In conclusion, choosing the right action camera is ultimately going to depend on your specific needs and preferences, as the latest models from Insta360, GoPro, and DJI all offer outstanding features suited to different types of creators. Whether you prioritize image quality, ruggedness, or advanced video modes, each camera has its strengths, from Insta360’s groundbreaking 8K video and low-light performance to GoPro’s enhanced slow-motion capabilities and DJI’s exceptional battery life and waterproofing.
When you pair your camera with the right accessories, such as mounts, extra batteries, and an SD card, you can get the most out of your shooting experience, making sure that you capture stunning footage in any environment.
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