As adventurers, we’re all about capturing the pulse-pounding moments that define our journeys. From climbing to the top of soaring summits to scuba diving below the crashing waves and everything in between.
Action cams have made these sort of insane shots accessible and available to your average Joe here. Where you needed expensive and specialised equipment in the past for underwater pictures or super wide angle images. Now it all fits into your pocket and comes in at under 350 bucks!
It used to be that if you wanted an action camera, you could choose between a GoPro… or a err well, a GoPro! It’s true that GoPro revolutionised if not invented the entire damn action camera genre. Whilst they pretty much cornered the market for a long time, those days are well and truly behind us. A plethora of worthy GoPro alternatives have emerged, each offering their own unique blend of features, performance, and value.
Unfortunately, there are still TONS of knock-offs and bad products out there. We don’t want you to get ripped off or spend your money on a crap camera that will leave you disappointed when you return from the trip of a lifetime.
In this guide, we’ll embark on a quest to uncover the best GoPro alternatives that rival the iconic action cam in both capability and versatility. To do so we will break down 12 unbelievable action cameras and show you why they’re great GoPro alternatives. We’ll dive into the features, specs, price and real-world performance of each contender, arming you with the knowledge to make an informed choice for your next adventure.
By the end of this article, you’ll know EXACTLY which action camera is best for you (and your wallet!).
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
Quick Answers: Best GoPro Alternatives in 2025
OCLU Action Camera
- Price > $199
- Weight > 101g (with battery & metal door)
- Size > 6.15 mm / 2.4 inches
Akaso Brave 7
- Price > $139
- Weight > 2.9 ounces
- Size > 2.4 x 1.6 x 1.4 inches
Garmin VIRB Ultra 30
- Price > $450
- Weight > 3.2 ounces
- Size > 2.4 x 1.2 x 1.6 inches
Yi 4k +
- Price > $250
- Weight > 93 g
- Size > 2.6 x 1.7 x 1.2 inches
Can’t Beat The Real Thing?
Let’s be honest here, whilst some alternatives are great products, sometimes you really cannot beat the real thing. Just like with Coca Cola, the original GoPro is still the best and if you can stretch to it and find the extra bucks, may be a sound investment. A proper GoPro will serve you well for miles and miles and years and years of adventuring. If your budget stretches, then why opt for a GoPro knock off when you can have the real deal, innit?!
Don’t worry too much though the Go Pro rivals we have reviewed in this post still pack a helluva punch…
REI is one of America’s biggest and most-loved outdoor gear retailers.
Now, for just $30, get a lifetime membership that entitles you to 10% OFF on most items, access to their trade-in scheme and discount rentals.
Join REI Today!The Best GoPro Alternatives
Without further ado, let’s dive in and look at the best non-Go Pro action cameras on the great global free market today.
#1 OCLU Action Camera: Our Pick For The Best Go Pro Alternative
Specs:
- Price: $199
- Weight: 93.5 g
- Waterproof Depth: 10m (33ft)
- 4K Videos: Yes, up to 60fps
- 1080: Yes, up to 240fps
- Still Resolution: 12 MP
- Battery Life: Up to 1 hour and 15 minutes of continuous recording
Meet the OCLU action camera. This cleverly designed action cam has been turning heads for the last few years – at a cost that won’t totally upend your gear budget. This may well be my favorite new camera I have tested this year. Why? Its versatile design, waterproof housing, and accessory options cater to an array of activities, with GPS tracking adding an extra layer of functionality for adventurers.
Featuring Live Cut functionality, the OCLU camera enables on-the-go editing, ensuring users capture only the best shots. Seamless integration with smartphones enhances usability and allows easy acces to settings. While the smooth image stabilization at 1080P @ 30 / 60 FPS ensures high-quality footage, even without shooting in 4k. Still, though, the camera captures 4k footage at 30 FPS. Not back for a knock off Go Pro!
The shape of the camera took us a little getting used to, but it should be noted that it is indeed small, fits right in your hand and hardly weighs a thing. Our team felt this was the best “Go Pro knock off” because rather than trying to replicate the GoPro exactly, the OCLUAction Camera has a completely different profile. Resolution and image quality wise the team were super impressed by what this little powerhouse was able to produce.
All and all a dope camera at a budget price. If you need more deets, check out our OCLU camera review.
- Has a wide variety of shooting modes; timelapse, burst, loop record.
- Compatible w/ many different mounts made my OCLU
- Live cut editing
- No image stabilization in 4k.
- Photo quality is not as high as other cameras.
- Requires additional case to be totally waterproof.
#2 Akaso Brave 7 : Best Ultra Budget GoPro Alternative
Specs:
- Price: $139
- Weight: 108 g
- Waterproof Depth: 10m (33ft)
- 4K Videos: Yes, up to 30fps
- 1080: Yes, up to 60fps
- Still Resolution: 20 MP
- Battery Life: Up to 90 minutes of continuous recording
The Akaso Brave 7 LE offers impressive features at a fraction of the cost compared a GoPro. Priced around $139, it boasts 4k recording, a remote control, dual-screen recording, and extra batteries. If you’re looking for an action camera that’s really cheap, then the Akaso Brave 4 LE is the best ultra-budget alternative out there!
With recording capabilities up to 30 fps at 4k resolution and 120 fps at 720p, the Akaso Brave 7 LE delivers a commendable performance. While its built-in electronic image stabilizer enhances video smoothness it’s not quite up to GoPro standards. Its hardware includes a touchscreen, USB, and HDMI ports, with waterproofing up to 30m with the included case, making it versatile for various outdoor activities.
The team were impressed by the power of the Brave 7 LE especially as it comes with accessories which are an extra purchase with the already pricy GoPro. Equipped with a basic remote control and Wi-Fi connectivity for smartphone integration, the Brave 7 LE is convenient to use. They also felt that, for the money, the quality produced by the Brave 7 LE was super impressive.
If you want to learn about this action cam, be sure to read our in-depth review of the Akaso Brave 7 LE!
- Clean 4K recording.
- Dual screens.
- Very affordable.
- Sound quality is not the best.
- No SD card included.
- Limited quality above 30 fps
Do You Want to Travel FOREVER??
Pop your email in below to get a FREE copy of ‘How to Travel the World on $10 a Day!’.
#3 Garmin VIRB Ultra 30: Good Overall GoPro Alternative
Specs:
- Price: $450
- Weight: 160 g
- Waterproof Depth: 10m (33ft)
- 4K Videos: Yes, up to 30fps
- 1080: Yes, up to 120fps
- Still Resolution: 15 MP
- Battery Life: Up to 1 hour and 5 minutes of continuous recording
Thanks to its excellent construction, superb video quality, and the inclusion of several innovative features like voice recognition and informative overlays, the Garmin VIRB Ultra 30 is a great GoPro alternative! Although not waterproof on its own, the Garmin VIRB becomes so with the addition of an external housing, which is rated at a maximum water depth of 131 feet.
In terms of video quality and recording, the Garmin VIRB Ultra delivers yet again. For the first time in the Garmin line, 4k recording is possible at 30 fps. There are several other recording options, like 1080p at 120fps, 720p at 240fps, etc. The Garmin VIRB Ultra 30 comes equipped with a voice control feature that, though not perfect, performs very well. WiFi connectivity is included and can be used to sync up with your phone and even stream live videos on Youtube.
Build-wise there’s little wrong with the Garmin VIRB Ultra 30. It’s pretty tough and small and features a scratch resistant touchscreen which works even with the housing installed. Video/image quality is superb with rich colors and excellent sharpness, perhaps even sharper than the GoPro. The Garmin VIRB Ultra does have some flaws though. Battery life is limited, especially shooting in 4k.
If you are still not convinced and want to see how the brand new GoPro Hero11 Black compares, well then I don’t blame you.
- Excellent connectivity thanks to solid voice recognition and the G-Metrix system.
- Compatible w/ GoPro mounts and accessories.
- Excellent video and image quality.
- Shorter battery life.
- Image stabilization isn’t great.
- Requires additional case to be waterproof though touch screen and voice recognition still works.
#4 Yi 4k +: Best Budget GoPro Alternative
Specs:
- Price $250
- Weight: 93 g
- Waterproof Depth: 40m (131ft) with included housing
- 4K Videos: Yes, up to 60fps
- 1080: Yes, up to 120fps
- Still Resolution: 12 MP
- Battery Life: Up to 70 minutes of continuous recording
The Yi 4k + emerges as a formidable competitor to GoPro cameras for almost half the price. Built similarly to a GoPro with a tough and compact design, the Yi 4k + stands out with its large touchscreen for convenient settings adjustment. As the name implies, 4k video recording is possible at up to 30 fps and 240 fps is possible at 720p. However, it does struggle in bright light conditions.
Electronic image stabilization is present in the Yi but it’s nothing too spectacular. The Yi 4k + does lack a lot of shooting modes found on the GoPro, though popular ones like slow-motion and time-lapses are still possible. What stands out though is the large touchscreen found on the back of this camera and it’s long battery life. However the camera itself is not waterproof without separately purchased housing.
The Yi 4k + is a built-in similar fashion to the GoPro – it’s tough, small, and somewhat utilitarian in aesthetics. Optically, the Yi 4k + can give GoPros a run for their money. Videos are crisp and, quality-wise, equal to those from the GoPro HERO4. Images taken from Yi 4k + are very attractive and are surprisingly devoid of vignetting, chromatic aberrations, and other distortions. You can thank in-camera corrections for the lack of these tarnishes.
- Solid 4k video recording.
- Large responsive touchscreen.
- Great battery life.
- No extra accessories or waterproof housing.
- Reliance upon touchscreen hampers usability.
- Somewhat stripped-down version of a GoPro feature-wise.
#5 Sony FDR X3000: Best Premium GoPro Alternative
Specs:
- Price: $
- Weight: 114 g
- Waterproof Depth: 60m (197ft) with included housing
- 4K Videos: Yes, up to 30fps
- 1080: Yes, up to 120fps
- Still Resolution: 8.2 MP
- Battery Life: Up to 1 hour and 5 minutes of continuous recording
The Sony FDR X3000 earns its place as the best premium action camera with its high-quality video recording capabilities, the super useful Live View Remote and its excellent built-in image stabilization. While it comes at a higher price point, its performance justifies the investment for those seeking superior video quality and additional features.
Recording in 4k is, of course, an option and the FDR X3000 does it so very well. The superior CMOS sensor provides still images of great quality, though it does somewhat fall down on the MP side of things. Uniquely, the Sony FDR X3000 comes with a separate Live View Remote accessory, which is meant to be mounted on a nearby surface like a bike handle or a wrist. By doing so, you’ll be able to view the live video without actually stopping the recording.
Due to its bullet shape, the Sony FDR X3000 may not fit in the same places that smaller cubical action cameras could, but it remains versatile with a built-in tripod mount compatible with GoPro accessories. The body itself is only splashproof and an external case is required for underwater use. The Sony FDR X3000 does also suffer from a poor battery, though the photographers on our team swear by this action cam.
- Some of the best image stabilization in an action camera.
- Live View Remote.
- Top video quality
- Not so good still image quality.
- Shorter battery life.
- High price that may dissuade some.
#6 Garmin VIRB 360: Best 360 GoPro Alternative
Specs:
- Weight: 160 g
- Waterproof Depth: 10m (33ft)
- 4K Videos: Yes, up to 30fps
- 1080: Yes, up to 120fps
- Still Resolution: 15 MP
- Battery Life: Up to 1 hour and 5 minutes of continuous recording
With superior optics, the ability to shoot at 5.7k, and at a reasonable price, the Garmin VIRB 360 is the best action camera for those who want to shoot with a 360 camera. This type of recording creates very immersive videos and has been touted as the beginning of a VR-like experience. Buying a 360 camera is certainly an investment in the future of content creation.
Its impressive optics ensure crisp 360 videos, with the added versatility of recording traditional 4k videos at 30 fps and 120 fps at 720p. This makes it effective as both a 360 camera and an standard action camera. Unfortunately, the VIRB 360 cannot stitch 360 videos that are shot in 5.7k in-body – for these, you’ll have to use a companion software.
Build-wise, the VIRB 360 delivers in every way that Garmin action cam should. The camera is waterproof without a separate housing for up to 100 feet and is very durable. Control-wise, the VIRB 360 is straightforward, offering a series of physical buttons and an LCD screen for accessing in-camera menus. The team love how durable this little tank of a camera is. On top of that the 360 field of view was mega fun to use and gave them a lot more flexibility.
- Can shoot 5.7k.
- Is still very rugged and waterproof.
- Is reasonably affordable.
- Stitching 5.7k can be a hassle.
- Battery drains quickly with 360 videos.
- Is still expensive by action camera standards.
Are you a content creator looking for your tribe?
Tribal Hostel is Bali’s first purpose-built co-working hostel, and perhaps the greatest hostel in the world!
An ideal hub for Digital Nomads, content creators, and backpackers, this very special hostel is finally open…
Come on down, mingle with fellow creators, and enjoy amazing coffee, high-speed wifi, and a game of pool.
#7 SJCAM SJ6Pro: GoPro Alternative Honorable Mention
Specs:
- Weight: 74 g
- Waterproof Depth: 30m (98ft) with included housing
- 4K Videos: Yes, up to 30fps
- 1080: Yes, in fact, it does 4k!
- Still Resolution: 24 MP
- Battery Life: Up to 110 minutes of continuous recording
The SJCAM SJ6Pro presents a budget-friendly alternative to the GoPro. It does this by offering a more stripped-down version of the famous action cam that still manages to feature specs such as 4k recording and a touchscreen. Whilst it still does feature built-in electronic (Gyro) image stabilization it performs only ok but is inferior to other mechanical image stabilizers.
Constructed from aluminium, the SJ6Pro boasts acceptable durability, although prolonged use may lead to overheating issues affecting battery life and usability. The majority of the camera’s settings and controls are found within the LCD menus that are accessed via the rear touchscreen.
Though responsive, the rear touchscreen suffers from glare in bright lights, which is a common phenomenon. The SJCAM SJ6Pro is not waterproof on its own and requires a separate housing (100 ft) to be so. However, the housing in addition to several other accessories is included with the SJCAM SJ6Pro camera package. The team weren’t blown away by this camera in many ways, but when told the price, they changed their minds!
- Excellent 4k video recording.
- Decent image stabilization.
- Good price.
- Aluminum body gets very hot.
- No tripod mount threading.
- Suffers from the usual frustrations of touchscreen-reliant cameras.
Get 15% OFF when you book through our link — and support the site you love so dearly 😉
Booking.com is quickly becoming our go-to for accommodation. From cheap hostels to stylish homestays and nice hotels, they’ve got it all!
View on Booking.com#8 Olympus Tough TG-Tracker: GoPro Alternative Honorable Mention
Specs:
- Weight: 180 g
- Waterproof Depth: 30m (98ft) without housing
- 4K Videos: Yes, up to 30fps
- 1080: Yes, up to 60fps
- Still Resolution: 8 MP
- Battery Life: Up to 95 minutes of continuous recording
The Olympus Tough TG-Tracker stands out as a top-tier action camera that offers something very different to both the GoPro and the other cameras on this list. Its shape and features make it more akin to using a traditional video camera. Thanks to its superlatively robust design and myriad features it makes shooting super exciting! Though, the whopping 204 degrees FOV isn’t to everyone’s taste and adjusting it can be a bit cumbersome.
Video quality is excellent with the Olympus TG-Tracker. All the usual bells and whistles of a good action camera are present – 4k, 240fps at 720p, and image stabilization – and these do a fine job. The 8 Mp sensor creates decent still images though they tend to be a little soft and lack contrast. The TG-Tracker’s most commendable feature is the superior GPS and environmental sensors that can track temperatures, barometric pressure, GPS, and much more.
The TG-Tracker is very light, weighs only 180 grams and can easily fit in your pocket. Since it’s waterproof by itself it won’t get any bigger with the addition of a separate housing! The Olympus Tough TG-Tracker is straightforward to use. There are multiple buttons on the camera body for changing settings and starting videos.
- Special environmental sensors.
- Fully waterproof without case.
- Excellent performance.
- Complicated menus and mobile app.
- The lens may be too wide and changing FOV is tedious.
- Still not as small as a GoPro.
#9 Sony RX0 II: GoPro Alternative Honorable Mention
Specs:
- Weight: 117 g
- Waterproof Depth: 9.14m (30ft) without housing
- 4K Videos: Yes, up to 30fps (via HDMI output only, not internal recording)
- 1080: Yes, up to 60fps
- Still Resolution: 15.3 MP
- Battery Life: Up to 60 minutes of continuous recording
The Sony RX0 stands out as a unique option in the action cam world. Offering a different shooting experience with its narrower field of view and exceptional optics it resembles more of a hybrid compact camera than a GoPro. Regardless, it’s still one of the best action cameras available. The Sony RX0’s greatest weapon is its gorgeous 24mm f/4.0 Zeiss lens, which offers stunning optical quality.
Images shot with this camera are sharp and have good contrast. With a maximum image resolution of 15.3 megapixels, there’s plenty of captured detail as well. Though the f/4.0 aperture is somewhat slow, the larger image sensor does a good job of controlling noise. The Sony RX0 offers decent video recording and full HD is possible at 100 fps. In a sense, the Sony RX0 sacrifices some video capability for better still images.
At 24mm (FF equivalent), the Sony RX0’s FOV is much narrower than the usual action camera. Those who hate the fisheye effect that is present in action cameras will feel much better about the RXO’s tighter, more photographer-friendly framing. Though the RX0’s optics feel more like a conventional camera, its construction is still purely an action camera. The RX0 is tiny – around the size of a GoPro – and fully waterproof.
- Excellent image quality – some of the best on this list.
- Fully waterproof.
- Still tiny.
- Expensive.
- No internal 4k video recording.
- Narrower FOV.
#10 icefox Action Camera: GoPro Alternative Honorable Mention
The icefox Action Camera is another budget-friendly action camera. Like many action cameras on this list, the icefox Action Camera is built very similarly to the GoPro but is offered at a much lower price. Boasting solid optical performance with crisp videos and images, including 4k recording at 60 fps, it certainly stands up on its own.
The icefox Action Camera is built very well and rivals the GoPro in ruggedness and portability. When inside of the housing, the camera is waterproof up to 40 meters. Battery life is rated at 2 hours of video recording and the pack includes an extra battery. The camera has a companion mobile app that can act as a Live View and remote control, however, it has trouble staying connected and is generally unreliable.
The icefox Action Camera is around the same size as the GoPro both in and out of its waterproof housing. Overall, the icefox Action Camera is very easy to use. Three physical buttons are used for turning the camera off/on, shooting, and changing settings. There is a touchscreen LCD screen as well but it suffers from the usual glare that afflicts such screens. The team feel for half the price of a GoPro this camera offers a performance that is only slightly below that of the more expensive option.
- Cheap.
- Good video quality.
- Lots of included accessories plus the ability to use GoPro mounts
- Limited FPS, especially at 4k.
- Unresponsive smartphone app.
- Unoriginal.
The Best Go Pro Alternatives – Comparison Table
| Model | Weight | Waterproof | 4k Videos | 1080 | Still Resolution | Battery Life |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GoPro Hero 11 | 12.6 oz | 10m (33ft) | Up to 5.3K at 60fps | Yes, up to 240fps | 27MP | Up to 1 hour and 15 minutes of continuous recording |
| OCLU Action Camera | 3.56 oz | 10m (33ft) | Up to 60fps | Yes, up to 60fps | 12 MP | Up to 1 hour and 15 minutes of continuous recording |
| Akaso Brave 7LE | 2.9 oz | 10m (33ft) | Up to 30fps | Yes, up to 30fps | 20 MP | Up to 90 minutes of continuous recording |
| Garmin VIRB Ultra | 3.2 oz | 10m (33ft) | Up to 30fps | Yes up to 120fps | 12 MP | Up to 1 hour and 15 minutes of continuous recording |
| Yi 4k + | 93 g | 40m (131ft) with included housing | Up to 60fps | Yes, up to 120fps | 12 MP | Up to 70 minutes of continuous recording |
| Sony FDR X3000 | 3.2 oz | 60m (197ft) with included housing | Up to 30fps | Yes, up to 30fps | 8.2 MP | Up to 1 hour and 5 minutes of continuous recording |
| Garmin VIRB 360 | 160 g | 10m (33ft) | Up to 30fps | Yes, up to 120fps | 15 MP | Up to 1 hour and 5 minutes of continuous recording |
| SJCAM SJ6Pro | 74 g | 30m (98ft) with included housing | Up to 30fps | Yes, in fact, it does 4k! | 24 MP | Up to 110 minutes of continuous recording |
| Olympus Tough TG-Tracker | 180 g | 30m (98ft) without housing | Up to 30fps | Yes, up to 60fps | 8 MP | Up to 95 minutes of continuous recording |
| Sony RX0 | 110 g | 10m (33ft) | Up to 30fps | Yes, up to 60fps | 15.3 MP | Up to 1 hour of continuous recording |
Buying an action camera is a slightly different experience than buying a regular DSLR. Though certain features are still taken into consideration – like sensor quality, size, weight, etc – more emphasis is put on other aspects.
With an action camera, the most important features are related to video quality, durability, and battery life. Essentially, a good action camera will shoot better, longer, and in more unfavorable conditions. Other features, like where you can mount the camera and built-in WiFi are nice added bonuses and, depending on your shooting style, may actually be vital.
Below I’ve created a list of things that one should consider when buying an action camera. Take them into consideration when choosing the right camera for you.
Video Resolution
These days, the video quality that action cameras offer runs the gamut from basic to professional-level videography. Add in many new technological developments like image stabilization and adjustable field of view and you can find some really crazy cameras out there.
The highest current video recording resolution is 4k. Several action cameras have the ability to shoot 4k and, though they shoot with fewer megapixels, these videos are still gorgeous to look at. If 4k is not possible, then nearly every action camera shoots at least 1080p (HD Quality), speaking for the ones in this article at least. Think about whether or not 4k is necessary in the first place as well – if your videos are just put on a 1080p screen, then 4k is worthless.
Frame rate (FPS) is something else that one should consider when buying the best possible GoPro alternative. 30 fps is the standard for most cameras these days and is used most frequently. 25 fps, once the industry standard for cinematography, creates a lovely “motion picture” look. If one intends to catch some very intense action scenes or even slow-motion videos, then they’ll have to crank up the fps – 60 fps, 120 fps, and 240 fps are all becoming common features and will create smoother slow-motion videos as the fps increase.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
Construction/Durability
Action cameras are supposed to be built to last; how well they’re built and how much of a beating they can take is imperative. Of equal importance are their size, shape, and weight as well – being able to mount the camera on your body or whatever object, for that matter, and not feel encumbered can make or break your shooting experience.
Most action cameras these days are built fairly well and can be beaten up a lot. How well they hold up under duress really comes down to building quality. Even many lower quality Go Pro clones offer decent housing.
Of special note is the waterproof depth of an action camera, that is, how far it can be submerged before the sealing is compromised. 30 feet is generally the shallowest depth for action cameras though an increasing amount can go upwards of 150 feet. If you’re a deep-water diver, these numbers will mean more to you.
The size and weight of an action camera are pretty straightforward. The smaller and lighter it is, the more useful it is. Be careful when buying as many are built from less reliable materials and are, thus, more prone to breaking.
Action cameras come in two shapes as well – cubical and bullet. Cubes are the most common variety and are most often very useful. Bullet shapes may suit other people more though and often bullet shape cameras come with more tech and features due to their increased size.
Ergonomics/Connectivity
For many, the biggest complaint that they have with action cameras is that they’re a little hard to use due to their limited surface area and controls. Many modern actions camera developers have alleviated these problems, somewhat, thanks to some pretty intuitive technologies.
Touch screens are becoming increasingly common and are usually quite useful. These eliminate the need to have and use manual controls on the camera. Of increasing occurrence are voice controls, which, though in their fledgling years and not totally effective yet, are still an inspiring step in the right direction.
WiFi connectivity is practically mandatory in action cameras these days. With the ability to connect your action camera to a phone or electronic device, you can share photos wirelessly and even take remote photos. Even though most if not every action camera has some sort of WiFi feature included, not everyone performs well. Keep an eye out for wireless efficiency when looking for a good action cam as well.
Battery Life
All of those 4k and slow-motion videos mean jack if you’re camera runs out of battery after only a few moments. Nothing is more frustrating than filming some amazing, action-packed scene, only to have your action camera die right at the best part. How long the battery lasts for your GoPro alternative is thus one of the most important aspects that you need to consider.
Most action cameras last anywhere between 1 and 3 hours if recording continuously. Most manufacturers will withhold official battery lives for whatever business reasons as well so judging an action camera based on official numbers can be tricky. The best thing is to just listen to reviews and see what the consensus is.
Certain activities, like filming in higher resolutions, higher fps, and using WiFi, can drain a battery faster. For this reason, higher-end cameras with more advanced technology will need better batteries to run longer. Some lower-end cameras with less energy-consuming tech may last a greater amount of time.
Many action cameras have batteries that can be changed on the fly. Investing in several spare batteries is probably your best bet when it comes to extending shooting times. If an action camera’s batteries are not interchangeable, then you can send them to a third party for replacement. Prices for this service vary but are usually reasonable.
FOV/Image Stabilization
Most action cameras have a field of view (FOV) of between 140 and 170 degrees – this is equivalent to 17mm and 20mm on a full-frame camera. Some only provide one setting for the field of view while others are able to switch between multiple angles. Note that these angles are very wide (so that they can capture lots) and that a fisheye effect is often a symptom. Most post-production software has the ability to fix fish eyeing though.
Image stabilization is a relatively new form of technology that is being incorporated into action cameras. Image stabilization or IS essentially compensates for a shaky camera and makes footage more smooth. This is done either mechanically or electronically. Note that incorporating IS technology into cameras usually jacks the price up.
For more on IS in action cameras, check out Action Cam Guide’s informative article.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
Accessories
For extreme videographers and athletes, an action camera is only as good as its accessories. You can’t carry that camera all the time, especially if your hands are full with the task at hand, so being able to mount the camera quickly and effectively is key to a good shooting experience.
Depending on your intended activity – i.e surfing, traveling with a drone, mountain biking – you’ll need to consider the size, weight, and shape of the camera, and if the proper mount is available. Each brand produces its own mounts and accessories so be sure to check their catalogs. Some cameras may even be compatible with GoPro’s own extensive line thus poaching the competition. Several other third parties produce mounts and accessories as well that may be compatible with your action camera.
Some action cameras will require separate housing for submersion. Even if a camera is rated for, say, 33 feet, it can still be comprised at lesser depths in rare occurrences. Having extra protection against water can be a good idea. Most GoPro’s are now at least rated as waterproof without casing for shallower depth, but many knock off GoPros still require housing.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
Value
At the end of the day, it’s all about what you’re willing to spend on a GoPro alternative. Thankfully, action cameras come in many shapes and sizes these days and at many different price points. You can, with research, find the perfect action camera for you at the price you want to pay. The thing about choosing an off brand Go Pro is that sometimes you just don’t actually need all the bells and whistles of the OG, so why pay for them!?
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have some questions? No problem! We’ve listed and answered the most commonly asked questions below. Here’s what people usually want to know:
Our GREATEST Travel Secrets…
Pop your email here & get the original Broke Backpacker Bible for FREE.
Final Thoughts on The Best GoPro Alternatives
So there you have them – the best GoPro alternatives of 2024! Over the course of 12 different action cameras, we’ve covered nearly every basis from more budget-friendly selections to upgrades to even a 360 camera. As you can see, it’s not just GoPro rip offs, but legitimate alternatives that offer different features and functionality.
If you can take anything away from this guide it’s that, whilst GoPros are still good cameras, you don’t have to settle for them to take great adventure videos! Consider your options wisely and then invest in the perfect GoPro alternative for you.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
Buy Us a Coffee!
A couple of you lovely readers suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!
You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee. If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂
