Whether you’re into adventure sports or just want to log your day-to-day activities, an action camera is the way to go. On top of regular models from the likes of GoPro, DJI and Insta360, you can film your adventures with 360-degree models and a new class of tiny cams that can even be attached to kids or pets. In other words, there are more options than ever for types of action shooting or vlogging.
With all the new choices, which have the best features for your personal exploits? Engadget has been testing action cameras for more than 16 years and with that experience, we can help you find the right model for your budget and needs.
Best action cameras for 2025
GoPro Best action camera for most people GoPro Hero 13 Black It’s close, but GoPro still makes the best action camera overall with the Hero 13, even with DJI nipping at its heels. The biggest upgrade from before is the new family of modular lenses called the HB series (ultra-wide, anamorphic and macro), making it far more versatile. It also has a slightly bigger battery that allows longer capture times — up to 90 minutes for 4K 30fps video. Other specs remain the same, including resolution up to 5.3K at 60fps in 10-bit color with high data rates, and 8:7 capture that uses the entire sensor. Elsewhere, the Hero 13 still has the best digital stabilization (aka Hypersmooth) of any action camera — the key to its number one ranking. It also has a full-color front screen and the best image quality in its class, along with the widest range of accessories ranging from mounts to waterproof remotes to harnesses. The main drawback is the mediocre low-light capability — one area where DJI’s Osmo Action 5 Pro is superior. Pros Can shoot up to 5.3K at 60fps in 10-bit color
Excellent digital stabilization
Works with modular HB lenses
Bigger battery Cons Poor performance in low-light conditions $379 at Amazon Explore More Buying Options $479 at Macy's$380 at Best Buy
Steve Dent for Engadget 85 100 Expert Score Best action camera for most people - runner up DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro Read our full DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro review Action cams have been a weak point with DJI, but it finally broke through with the Action 5 Pro. Its best feature is the large 1/1.3-inch sensor that makes it better than the Hero 13 in low light. It also tops the action cam battery life charts at two hours-plus while shooting 4K 60fps. Another nice feature is 47GB of internal storage, a big help if you forget your microSD memory card. And the Osmo Action 5 Pro works directly with DJI’s noise-cancelling Mic 2 and Mic Mini wireless microphones, providing an easy way to record high-quality sound. The Action 5 Pro's main downsides are relatively low resolution and slightly poorer stabilization compared to the competition. DJI's device tops out at 4K 120fps, which is lower than the GoPro Hero 13's 3K 60fps (both can record log, though). And while the DJI camera's stabilization is capable, it doesn't quite match the excellence of the GoPro 13. Pros Best action cam battery life
Good in low light
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