Best Action Cameras of 2023
With the rapid advancements in technology, action cameras have become more compact, powerful, and versatile than ever before. In this blog, I list the best sports cameras of 2023 and review some of the top action cameras on the market and highlight their key features, pros, and cons.
From GoPro to DJI to Insta, we will cover a range of brands and models to help you make an informed decision when choosing the perfect action camera to suit your needs.
One of the best ways to remember adventures or show your friends is to record them, a lot of times it can be hard or uncomfortable to carry a DLSR camera or a phone, action cameras seem to be the perfect solution, resistant, waterproof, and very light you can take action cameras everywhere.
When searching online you can find hundreds of different sports cameras with different specifications, different brands, etc. It can be easy to get confused or get tricked into getting a camera that isn’t as good as you thought it was. So, whether you’re planning your next outdoor adventure or looking to upgrade your current camera setup, read on to discover the best action cameras of 2023.
The GoPro Hero 11 is a compact, durable action camera with a new lens, improved stabilization, and a front screen. It has a longer-lasting Enduro battery and can shoot up to 5.3K
The Insta360 ONE RS is a versatile cam with interchangeable lenses, capable of 5.7K and 360º video, 48MP photos, impressive stabilization, and waterproof up to 10m
DJI Osmo Action 3 can take 12MP photos and 4K videos at 120fps. It’s durable, waterproof up to 16m. RockSteady 3.0 stabilization provides smooth footage for up to 160 minutes.
The GoPro Hero 10 is capable of 5.3K videos and 23MP pictures, it has a durable design and great stabilization, and a front screen, its capable of going underwater up to 10m .
The Insta360 X3 is a 360º cam capable of 5.7K video and 72MP photos. It has a sleek design, can go underwater UP TO 10M, and features FlowState stabilization
Some of the best high-quality product companies are GoPro, DJI, and Insta360 but Chinese companies are the ones who produce most of the action cameras you see on the market. Most of the cheapest action cameras are very similar and low-quality.
When it comes to action cameras, there are two types of cameras that stand out: wide-angle cameras and 360º cameras.
Wide-angle action cameras are designed to capture a wide field of view, allowing you to capture more of the action in a single shot. These cameras typically have a field of view that ranges from 90 to 170 degrees, allowing you to capture a lot of the environment around you. Wide-angle action cameras are perfect for capturing action sports such as surfing, snowboarding, and mountain biking, as well as for recording travel vlogs and other adventures.
On the other hand, 360º action cameras offer a completely different perspective, capturing a full 360-degree view of your surroundings. These cameras use multiple lenses to capture everything around you, creating an immersive viewing experience that makes the viewer feel like they are right there with you. 360º action cameras are great for capturing all kinds of footage as well.
GoPro Hero 11
The GoPro Hero 11 is a compact, durable, and high-quality action camera designed for capturing high-quality photos and videos. It is similar in size to last year’s model, the Hero 10, but is a bit bigger than older GoPros.
The Hero 11 has a new lens that GoPro claims is more durable and water-repellent, which makes it great for filming underwater. It can go underwater without a waterproof housing and can withstand depths up to 10m (33ft). It also has a front screen, and the screen is much more responsive with the new GP2 sensor.
The camera has a removable 1720mAh Enduro battery, which is an upgraded battery that lasts longer than lithium batteries and improves performance in cold temperatures. The battery can last up to 180 minutes when recording 1080p Full HD video, but the life will drop dramatically when capturing 5K video.
The Hero 11 has improved stabilization, called HyperSmooth 5.0, which works great and eliminates the need for gimbals. It also has a “Boost” mode and “Portrait Orientation” for even more stabilization and keeping the video locked to the horizon level.
The camera can shoot pictures with modes such as SuperPhoto + Improved HDR, LiveBurst, Wide, Linear, and Narrow Lenses, and it can shoot in JPG or RAW format for more detail in post-production.
The Hero 11 can record up to 5.3K resolution and 60 frames per second, and videos are stored in .mov format with the H.264 or H.265 codecs. The video quality is very similar to the Hero 10 and is perfect for video editing with the ability to zoom in while still maintaining great quality.
Overall, the GoPro Hero 11 is a great action camera for capturing high-quality photos and videos and is ideal for vloggers, travelers, and action sports enthusiasts.
Insta360 ONE R Twin
the new Insta360 ONE RS Twin Edition, an action camera capable of 4K resolution and 360º videos, up to 48MP pictures, and improved stabilization.
The most impressive feature of the new Insta360 ONE RS Twin Edition is its ability to change the lens and transform a 4K wide lens camera into a 360º camera by simply swapping the lens. Additionally, the design of the camera is very unique, as it can change its size and shape depending on which lens is attached.
One of the camera’s most notable features is its ability to go underwater without the need for a waterproof housing, allowing it to be submerged up to 10m (33 feet). The camera also features a front screen.
The dimensions of the Insta360 are 70 x 49 x 32 mm (2.7 x 1.9 x 1.2 inch) with the Boost lens, 70 x 49 x 43 mm (2.7 x 1.9 x 1.7 inch) with the 360º lens, and 79 x 56 x 47 mm (2.7 x 2.2 x 1.8 inch) with the Wide angle lens. The camera’s weight ranges from 125g to 163g (4.4 ounces to 5.7 ounces), depending on the lens.
The Insta360 ONE RS Twin Edition can record 5.7K with the 360º lens and 4K at 60fps with the wide lens, and it can shoot 48MP photos with the new 8:7 aspect ratio. The camera uses a 170° super wide-angle lens with an aperture of F1.8. It also comes with a removable 1445mAh lithium battery that can last up to 80 minutes while recording in 4K resolution. It takes about 70 minutes to recharge when powered off.
One of the camera’s standout features is its FlowState stabilization, which keeps footage smooth while filming. Insta360 has mastered stabilization over the last few years, and the FlowState stabilization is one of the best on the market, almost as good as GoPro’s HyperSmooth 5.0.
The camera also comes with Horizon Lock, which levels shots regardless of how much the camera is tilted. All three lenses support 360 horizon leveling. The FlowState stabilization is a game-changer for action cameras and gimbal users, as it works exceptionally well and can eliminate the need for gimbals.
DJI Osmo Action 3
DJI Osmo Action 3 is an advanced action camera that offers a range of features and great specifications. DJI is a market leader in the action camera industry and the largest producer of drones.
The DJI Osmo Action 3 captures 12 MP photos in 4:3 and 16:9 formats, with a high resolution that provides good detail in the pictures. The Osmo Action 3 is capable of recording up to 4K resolution at 120 frames per second. The video quality is pretty good, with natural colors and good sharpness.
One of the key features of the Osmo Action 3 is its new image sensor, which provides a larger field of view for capturing more of the sky and horizon in each shot. The camera features a new design compared to the Osmo Action 2, with a more typical sports camera appearance similar to that of GoPro.
The materials used are more durable and resistant, with rough details to improve grip, and the camera is capable of resisting falls of up to 1.5 m (5 ft). The camera is also waterproof, allowing you to take it underwater up to 16m (52 ft) without a waterproof case.
The camera is equipped with a front touch screen, perfect for vloggers and setting up your shots without having to look at the back screen. On the front, you will find the lens, microphone, and front screen, while the upper side houses the shutter button.
The DJI Osmo Action 3 weighs 145g (5.1 ounces) and measures 71 x 44 x 32mm (2.8 x 1.7 x 1.3 inch). The camera uses a removable 1770 mAh battery that is capable of resisting extreme temperatures and has a battery life of up to 160 minutes.
The stabilization technology has also been improved with RockSteady 3.0, a game-changer for action cameras and gimbal users. The Horizon Balancing mode is a new addition, which levels the horizon up to 45º and is available in 4K at 60fps. The stabilization technology is highly effective, producing smooth results and eliminating the need for gimbals.
GoPro Hero 10
GoPro has released its latest camera, the Hero 10, which is an action camera capable of recording at 5.3K resolution with 60fps, great battery time, and a lot of new and better specifications.
The most significant improvement in the Hero 10 is its new processor, which has been upgraded from the GP1 to the GP2. This is the start of a new chapter in GoPro’s cameras, and it brings some impressive new features to the table.
The Hero 10 is the same size as last year’s model, the Hero 9, which is a bit bigger than older GoPros. The Hero 10 also comes with a new lens that GoPro claims is more durable and waterdrop repellent, making it a great help when filming around water. The dimensions of the Hero 10 are 71 x 55 x 33.6mm (2.8 x 2.1 x 1.3 inch), and its weight is 159g (5.6 ounces).
Like most new sports cameras, the Hero 10 can go underwater without the waterproof housing, and it can go underwater up to 10m (33feet). The Hero 10 also comes with a front screen like the previous model, the Hero 9, which is perfect for vloggers and allows you to set up your shot perfectly without having to look on the back screen. With the new GP2, the screen is much more responsive.
As for specifications, the Hero 10 has incorporated the new GP2 chipset, which allows it to record 5.3K 60fps and 4K 120, and 23MP photos using a 170° super wide-angle lens with an opening of F1.8. It uses HyperSmooth 4.0 Video Stabilization, which supports up to 5K.
The Hero 10 also comes with a Wi-Fi connection, and it’s a bit faster to connect thanks to the new processor. The app connects with the GoPro smartphone app to control the camera through your phone or enjoy hands-free control of your camera via simple voice commands. The GoPro App can also automatically back up footage to GoPro’s cloud subscription service (over Wi-Fi).
Insta360 X3
The Insta360 X3 is the improved version the Insta X series, a camera designed for capturing 360-degree photos and videos. With its advanced features and sleek design, the X3 has become a popular choice.
One of the standout features of the X3 is its advanced 360º camera technology. With a dual-lens system, this camera captures 5.7K video, ensuring that your footage is always crisp and clear, it can also shoot impressive pictures up to 72MP in 360º format.
The Insta360 X3 has a sleek and modern design that sets it apart from other 360-degree cameras on the market. Its compact size makes it easy to carry, while its stylish look and attractive finish give it a premium feel that is sure to impress. The dimensions of the ONE X3 are 114 x 46 x 33 mm (4.4 x 1.8 x 1.3 inch) and its weight is 180g (6.3 ounces).
Like most new sports cam, the Insta360 X3 can also go underwater without the waterproof case. It can go underwater up to 10m (32 ft), and all of the compartments close well and under pressure, avoiding the entry of water, which gives the X3 an IPX8 rating.
In terms of functionality, the X3’s design is impressive. The camera’s buttons and ports are logically placed and easily accessible, making it simple to navigate and control. The camera’s 360-degree lens provides a full view of the world creating an immersive shooting experience.
The X3 uses a powerful 1800 mAh battery that can last up to 80 minutes of recording time. When it comes time to recharge the battery, the X3 features a quick charging time of only 90 minutes.
Like the last few Insta360 models, the X3 comes with a powerful stabilization technology called FlowState. FlowState Stabilization and 360 Horizon Lock come together to deliver incredibly smooth videos and being capable of locking on the horizon, making it easy to capture stunning footage, even on the go.
In this blog, we also offer you all the information you need on where to buy a 4k budget sports camera, what specifications are exactly, the best camera accessories, more about GoPro’s action cams, and more.
Down below you can see a comparative chart with these 5 action cameras comparing different specifications so you can easily see some differences and similarities between them, keep in mind there are a lot more aspects to keep in mind besides these specifications.
Video Resolution
5.3K, 4K, 2.7K
1080p, 720p
5.7K, 4K, 2.7K
1080p, 720p
4K, 2.7K
1080p, 720p
5.3K, 4K, 2.7K
1080p, 720p
5.7K, 4K, 2.7K
1080p, 720p
Mega Pixels
27 MP
48 MP
12 MP
23 MP
72 MP
Battery
1720 mAh
1445 mAh
1770 mAh
1720 mAh
1800 mAh
Stabilization
HyperSmooth 5.0
FlowState
RockSteady 3.0
Hypersmooth 4.0
FlowState
SD Card
512 GB
1 TB
256 GB
128 GB
1 TB
Size Dimensions
71 x 51 x 33 mm
79 x 56 x 47 mm
71 x 44 x 32 mm
71 x 55 x 33 mm
114 x 46 x 33 mm
GoPro's Action Cameras
GoPro is a company that develops, and produces the best action cameras in the market. Some sports cams come close to catching up but GoPro still has some of the best action cameras you can find.
The Hero 11, Hero 10, and the Hero 9 are pretty similar, they offer very similar video quality, design, and specs. Every year GoPro improves the Hero GoPro camera with new features, better stabilization, and better specs…
The GoPro cameras are some of the best action cameras available today. With their high-quality footage, durability, ease of use, and amazing stabilization, they’re a great choice for anyone looking to capture their outdoor adventures. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting, a GoPro camera is sure to deliver the results you’re looking for.
Best 360º Action Cameras
360-degree action cameras can record 360-degree field of view, allowing you to capture everything around you in a single shot or video. These cameras are becoming increasingly popular because of their ability to create immersive experiences, and they’re commonly used in areas like virtual reality, tourism, and all kinds of sports activities.
360º cameras typically use multiple lenses or sensors to capture a full view of their surroundings. The images and videos captured by these cameras are then stitched together using software to create a seamless 360-degree panorama. Many 360-degree cameras come with built-in stabilization technology to reduce the shakiness of footage and improve the overall viewing experience.
Among the many options available on the market, three of the best 360-degree cameras are the Insta360 X3, Insta360 ONE R Twin, and Insta360 ONE X2.
Insta360 X3: The Insta360 X3 is a compact and easy-to-use 360-degree camera that offers high-quality 5.7K resolution video and 72-megapixel photos. It features FlowState stabilizzation and comes with advanced features such as HDR photo and video, time-lapse, and live streaming and more
Insta360 ONE R Twin: The Insta360 ONE R Twin is a versatile camera that can be used as a 360-degree camera, and a wide-angle camera with its interchangeable lenses, including a 360-degree lens and a 4K wide-angle lens, that can be easily swapped. The camera also features advanced stabilization, HDR photos and video, and waterproof.
Insta360 ONE X2: The Insta360 ONE X2 is a popular 360-degree camera that offers high-quality 5.7K resolution video and 24-megapixel photos. It features FlowState stabilization, a range of shooting modes, including time-lapse, slow motion, and great battery time.
What to look for in an Action Camera
If you’re in the market for an action camera, there are several factors to consider before making a purchase. Here’s what to look for in an action camera:
Image Quality: The image quality of the camera is essential to capture your adventure in high definition. Look for an action camera that records at least 1080p resolution with a high frame rate to ensure your footage is smooth and clear. Higher-end models can record in 4K, which will produce even better quality footage.
Stabilization: Stabilization is essential to ensure smooth footage when capturing action-packed moments. Some cameras feature in-camera stabilization to stabilize the footage. Most new high-end sports cameras come with great stabilization such as the HyperSmooth 5.0.
Durability: Action cameras are designed to withstand rugged conditions and go underwater, so look for a camera with a durable body that is waterproof and shockproof. This will ensure the camera can withstand any accidental drops or harsh weather conditions.
Battery Life: Battery life is important when it comes to action cameras, so make sure you select a camera with a long-lasting battery. Most cameras feature removable batteries, which can be useful for extended shooting sessions with a 2n one.
Ultimately, the best action camera for you will depend on your needs and preferences. Consider the type of activities you will be filming and how you want to film, your budget, and the features you prioritize when making your decision. With so many options available, you’re sure to find an action camera that will capture all of your adventures in stunning detail.
