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Budget Action Camera Options
Are you looking for an affordable action camera to capture your adventures? Whether it’s for hiking, sports, biking, or drone footage, having a durable, compact, and lightweight camera is essential. However, finding a great option on a budget can feel like a challenge when compared to the premium models from GoPro, Sony, or DJI. The good news? You don’t always have to compromise!
We’ve compiled a list of some of the best mid-range and affordable action cameras currently available, each offering unique features for outdoor enthusiasts.
What to Look For in an Action Camera
Before diving into the list, here are the key features that make a great action camera:
- Durability: Must withstand rugged environments and be waterproof (or compatible with protective cases).
- Compact and Lightweight: Ideal for portability and use with mounts or drones.
- Video Quality: Capable of recording in high resolutions, such as 4K or 1080p.
- Stabilization: Built-in image stabilization for smooth footage during motion.
Now, let’s look at the top picks!
Comparison of Top Mid-Range Action Cameras
| Camera | Video Resolution | FOV | Image Stabilization | Waterproof | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RunCam 5 | 4K at 30fps, 1080p at 120fps | 145° | No | Not waterproof | 56g |
| RunCam Thumb Pro | 4K at 30fps, 1080p at 120fps | 155° | Limited (gyro-based data) | Not waterproof | 16g |
| AKASO Brave 7 LE | 4K at 30fps | Wide | 6-axis stabilization (with crop) | Up to 1m (w/o case), 131ft (w/case) | 127g |
| GoPro Hero 9 | 5K at 30fps, 4K at 60fps | Wide | HyperSmooth 3.0 with horizon leveling | Up to 33m (w/o case) | 158g |
| DJI Osmo Action | 4K at 60fps | 145° | RockSteady stabilization | Up to 11m (w/o case) | 124g |
| DJI Osmo Action 3 | 4K at 120fps, 5K at 60fps | Wide | RockSteady 3.0 | Up to 16m (w/o case), 60m (w/case) | 145g |
1. RunCam 5
The RunCam 5 is a compact and durable action camera with a unique design. It features a Sony IMX377 12MP image sensor, capable of recording in 4K at 30fps or 1080p at 120fps. Its 145-degree field of view ensures wide-angle shots, and you can expand the storage with a microSD card of up to 128GB.
The polycarbonate case is lightweight, weighing only 56 grams, making it an excellent choice for portability. However, the camera lacks waterproofing, so you’ll need to protect it in wet conditions. While the footage quality can be improved with adjustments, it lacks WiFi, which may be inconvenient for some users.
2. RunCam Thumb Pro
The RunCam Thumb Pro is an ultra-lightweight action camera, weighing only 16 grams. It’s popular for capturing gyro-flow data, offering 155-degree field of view, and recording in various resolutions, much like the RunCam 5. Additionally, it supports up to 256GB of storage, giving you more space for your recordings.
Unlike the RunCam 5, this model doesn’t have a built-in battery and needs to be powered through a 2-pin 5V input. It also supports remote control via Betaflight UART3, making it a great option for drone enthusiasts. However, its build is more fragile, so it may not be the most durable option.
3. AKASO Brave 7 LE
The AKASO Brave 7 LE remains a standout budget option thanks to its dual-screen design, which includes a front-facing selfie screen. This versatile action camera captures 4K video at 30fps and features a 20MP sensor for still images.
One of its key highlights is its 6-axis stabilization, which works across all resolutions, though it does cause some cropping. It is rated to be waterproof up to 1 meter without a case and up to 131 feet with the case.
While it’s a great option, it doesn’t offer the premium quality or feel of a GoPro, and its selfie screen is relatively small. Still, it’s a solid choice for casual users.
4. GoPro Hero 9 (Older Model)
Older model GoPros, like the Hero 9, are fantastic mid-range options for those wanting premium performance at a lower cost. The Hero 9 can shoot in 5K at 30fps, 4K at 60fps, and lower resolutions at higher frame rates. Its 20MP sensor ensures high-quality photos, while HyperSmooth 3.0 stabilization and auto horizon leveling deliver smooth, stable shots.
This model is waterproof up to 33 meters without a housing, making it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. The front-mounted LCD is another great addition, providing live view and complementing the rear touchscreen.
While it’s a great performer, the touchscreen can occasionally feel unresponsive. However, with GoPro’s reputation and customer support, this is a highly reliable choice for those looking for durability and performance.
5. DJI Osmo Action (Older Model)
The DJI Osmo Action is another strong contender in the mid-range category. This durable action camera features a 145-degree field of view and a 2.4-inch display. It’s equipped with a 12MP CMOS sensor, capable of recording 4K video at 60fps with smooth stabilization using DJI’s RockSteady system.
The Osmo Action is waterproof up to 11 meters without a housing, making it ideal for underwater adventures. While it lacks connections for external microphones or headphones, it offers excellent video quality for its class.
For those looking to step up, the DJI Osmo Action 3 offers enhancements such as a larger 1/1.7-inch CMOS sensor, 4K at 120fps, and improved waterproofing up to 16 meters without a case.
Why Consider Older Models?
Older models from trusted brands like GoPro and DJI often provide better build quality, superior image stabilization, and reliable durability compared to budget alternatives. While you may miss out on the latest features, these older models deliver premium performance at a fraction of the cost, especially when getting a pre-owned model.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right action camera depends on your priorities. For those on a tight budget, the RunCam 5 or RunCam Thumb Pro are great compact options. If you’re looking for a more versatile choice but still a low price, the AKASO Brave 7 LE offers unique features like dual screens and stabilization.
However, if you want a more durable, high-quality camera with a trusted name, the GoPro Hero 9 or DJI Osmo Action are the best picks. Older models from these brands strike the perfect balance between affordability and reliability, making them excellent investments for your adventures.
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