The Best Action Cameras in 2025: What’s Worth Your Money?

The GoPro Hero 13 Black enters a market that’s no longer just its playground. With competitors like Insta360 and DJI innovating fast—especially the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro—GoPro’s latest flagship sticks to what it knows best: rugged reliability, familiar design, and a few strategic improvements.

Physically, the Hero 13 Black doesn’t stray far from its roots. It keeps the dual LCD screens (front and rear), which continue to be a hit for vloggers and casual creators. What’s new is the HB lens series—GoPro’s latest optics designed for improved image clarity and durability — and a continued push toward modular design, allowing users to customize setups with add-ons like lights or mics.

While DJI's competing model boasts dual OLED screens, lower weight, and better waterproofing (up to 20m without a case), the Hero 13 Black still appeals to those who trust GoPro’s no-nonsense build. It's slightly heavier at 154g, but that comes with a sense of durability that many users still associate with the GoPro brand. Compared to rivals like DJI Osmo Action 5, the Hero 13 wins in image quality, mod support, and stabilization. It’s not the cheapest, but it’s the most versatile and reliable.

Where it starts to fall behind is in innovative features. The Hero 13 doesn’t deliver any standout new sensor or low-light performance upgrades — areas where DJI is now pulling ahead. Battery life and thermal handling remain solid but unexceptional.

That said, image quality is still very good, stabilization is top-tier, and usability is familiar and intuitive—ideal for those who don’t want a steep learning curve.

Verdict: The Hero 13 Black is the most complete action camera available — durable, powerful, and creator-friendly. It’s the one to beat in 2025. For users new to action cams or upgrading from much older models, it delivers the GoPro experience you expect. But if you're looking for cutting-edge features, better low-light, or the best screen tech, competitors like DJI’s Action 5 Pro now offer more for the same money.

If you’re expecting a radical redesign or breakthrough features in the GoPro Hero 11 Black, temper your expectations. Visually, it's nearly identical to the Hero 10—the only obvious change is the “11” stamped on the side. But under the hood, there are some modest yet meaningful upgrades, especially for those who use their GoPro for more than just action-packed footage.

One of the most important changes is a larger sensor, but don't expect miracles in low light — GoPro still hasn’t cracked that nut. Where this sensor shines is in flexibility. You now get 360° Horizon Lock, which keeps footage level no matter how much the camera rotates (as long as you’re shooting in Linear mode). It’s a lifesaver if you tend to mount your camera on the fly and don’t always get the angle right.

Video capabilities have seen minor but useful boosts. SuperView mode now supports 5.3K, and you get a bit more wiggle room for slow motion in 4K. Photo resolution has been bumped from 23MP to 27MP, though let's be honest — most users grab stills from video rather than using the GoPro like a DSLR.

Stabilization is as solid as ever, and the Hero 11 Black maintains GoPro’s reputation for rugged, reliable performance in fast-moving environments. But if you were hoping for better low-light video or a more compact form factor, those wishes remain unfulfilled.

Verdict: The Hero 11 Black is a refinement, not a revolution. If you’re upgrading from an older GoPro (pre-Hero 9), it’s a worthwhile step up. But for Hero 10 users or those focused on low-light or indoor shooting, the changes are too subtle to make a strong case. Great for outdoor, action-heavy use, but not a must-have for everyone.

For someone who's long dismissed action cameras as toys for adrenaline junkies, the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro is a genuine surprise and a serious creative tool. Built on the momentum of DJI’s camera innovations, this compact beast delivers impressive image quality without the need to lug around a rig the size of a small suitcase.

The star feature here is the 1/1.3-inch sensor, which immediately sets it apart from the GoPro crowd. It delivers noticeably better low-light performance, richer dynamic range, and natural colors—none of that overcooked Instagram-filter look. Add to that 10-bit D-Log M color support, and you've got the freedom to color grade your footage without it falling apart. It's the kind of flexibility that makes you feel like a filmmaker, not just a hobbyist.

The Action 5 Pro doesn’t just shoot well—it adapts well. It’s rugged, waterproof up to 10 meters, and feels like it was made to be punished. The stabilization is excellent, even without a gimbal, and that means whether you’re biking down a mountain or running after your kid, your footage won’t look like it came from a shaky phone camera.

Battery life is respectable. You’re not going to shoot a feature film on a single charge, but for most casual users — vlogging, travel, day trips — it holds up just fine. There’s also a clear sense that DJI refined the user interface to make things easy for people who don’t want to scroll through endless menus.

That said, it’s not perfect. The audio is passable but nothing to write home about. And while the compact form is a win for portability, the lack of a larger screen can be annoying if you’re used to previewing shots on the fly. It's also not the cheapest option in its class — but you’re paying for that sensor and pro-level features.

Verdict: We ranked the Osmo Action 5 Pro third because GoPro’s Hero 13 Black still leads in pure image quality and extras (like 5.3K video and lens mods), and the older Hero 11 Black delivers slightly richer color output. Still, if you're looking for the best GoPro alternative, the Action 5 Pro is a superb all-rounder that earned its spot on our 2025 list.

The Insta360 Ace Pro 2 enters the action cam arena with one big headline feature: 8K video at 30fps. That sounds impressive — and it is, especially in well-lit environments. The detail is crisp, the colors vibrant, and the footage feels cinematic straight out of the camera. But like most tech flexes, there’s a catch.

Insta360 recommends only using 8K in bright, well-lit conditions, and that advice is spot on. In lower light, noise creeps in fast, and the magic starts to fade. For casual users hoping for plug-and-play excellence, this limitation might be frustrating. If you’re mainly shooting in daylight or outdoors, though, it’s a noticeable step up.

Stabilization? Like its top-tier competitors (GoPro Hero 13 and DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro), the Ace Pro 2 handles shake like a pro. Whether you’re biking, walking, or doing backflips — your footage will stay steady and smooth.

One issue that stands out is focusing distance. The Ace Pro 2 struggles when the subject is too close — a bit of a surprise for a camera that seems geared toward vlogging and active selfies. You’ll want to keep it at least an arm’s length away for sharp, usable results. In this specific area, the GoPro still has the upper hand.

As far as design and ease of use go, the Ace Pro 2 is solid. Menus are intuitive, and the hardware feels premium. Plus, the ability to shoot 8K gives you flexibility in post-production — you can crop in, reframe, or punch into your footage without losing detail.

Battery life is middle of the pack. It’s good enough for most users, but if you’re planning extended shoots, keep a spare on hand.

Verdict: The Insta360 Ace Pro 2 is a high-resolution beast that's best used in bright, outdoor conditions. If you shoot mainly in daylight and value post-editing flexibility, it's a worthy contender. Just don’t expect miracles in dim light or close-up shots.

The GoPro Hero 10 Black might be a few generations old, but we were surprised by just how capable it still is in 2025. We tossed it into backpacks, strapped it to bikes, helmets, and paddleboards — and it never flinched. 

Video quality is still strong with 5.3K at 60fps and 4K at 120fps, which gives you buttery slow-motion and sharp footage even today. The GP2 processor keeps things responsive—menus feel snappy, and it boots fast, which is something we really appreciated when capturing fleeting moments.

Stabilization via HyperSmooth 4.0 holds up surprisingly well. Sure, newer versions are better, but we shot a lot of trail runs and cliff dives with the Hero 10, and the footage still came out smooth and watchable. Add in 23MP photos, and you've got a reliable all-rounder.

Where it shows its age is battery life. It's... fine. Expect around 45–60 minutes of active 4K recording before needing a recharge. It also runs a bit warm if you’re pushing high-res clips for long sessions.

Verdict: The Hero 10 Black may not be flashy in 2025, but it’s still tough, capable, and up for anything. A fantastic choice for newcomers or budget-conscious adventurers who want classic GoPro performance without breaking the bank.

The GoPro Hero 9 Black marked a turning point in the GoPro lineup — not just a refresh, but a meaningful step forward. With a new 23.6MP sensor, 5K video recording, and an all-new front-facing screen, it was clearly designed to address both creator feedback and rising competition.

Let’s start with the headliner: 5K video. Do you need it? Probably not. But the extra resolution is great for cropping in post without killing image quality — especially helpful if your framing wasn’t perfect. Even better, you can pull 14.7MP stills from that footage, meaning you can treat your video like a photo bank.

GoPro also delivered major gains in stabilization. HyperSmooth Boost is the top-tier mode, and it looks impressively fluid. Footage remains steady even in intense motion, and you don’t have to worry about the over-processed “floaty” look that plagued earlier versions.

The front display makes a big difference for vloggers and solo shooters. It’s not huge, but it's enough to confirm framing. Combine that with the rear touchscreen, and the usability gets a nice boost — though the interface still lags at times, especially during heavy use.

Battery life sees a modest improvement, thanks to a larger battery. It’s still not all-day reliable, but it’s more forgiving than earlier models.

There’s one caveat: low-light performance is mediocre, and hasn’t seen the same progress as resolution and stabilization. If you shoot a lot indoors or at night, be prepared for noise and detail loss.

Verdict: The Hero 9 Black is a meaningful upgrade, especially if you’re coming from a Hero 7 or earlier. It brings solid improvements in video resolution, stabilization, and usability. But its weak low-light performance and slightly clunky interface remind you it’s still a GoPro—powerful, but not perfect.

The GoPro Hero 12 Black doesn’t reinvent the wheel—in fact, you might mistake it for last year’s Hero 11 Black at first glance. That’s because the design, sensor, and core video specs (5.3K at 60fps, 4K at 120fps) haven’t changed. What GoPro has done here is fine-tune — with some helpful, if not headline-making, upgrades.

Let’s start with battery life. One of the most practical gains this year, the Hero 12 squeezes more runtime out of the same size battery. It won’t double your shooting time, but it’s a noticeable improvement for longer sessions, especially when shooting in higher resolutions.

There’s also a new GP Log mode, giving you more flexibility in color grading during post. If you’re not into editing, this won’t matter — but for creators who like dialing in their own look, it’s a solid bonus. The addition of HDR video adds a bit more dynamic range out of the box, which is great for high-contrast scenes.

The Hero 12 also introduces vertical video recording without needing to rotate the camera, making life easier for TikTok and Instagram users. And a new mounting option adds convenience for different setups.

But here’s the rub: it’s still using the same small sensor, and as a result, low-light performance is still mediocre. Night scenes get noisy quickly, and there’s no real breakthrough in image quality unless you're in well-lit conditions.

The Hero 12 is priced the same as the Hero 11, making it a decent value for new buyers — but for current Hero 11 users, the gains might not be worth the upgrade.

Verdict: The Hero 12 Black is a thoughtful but incremental update. If you’re new to GoPro or upgrading from a much older model, it’s a solid buy. But for Hero 11 users or those hoping for better low-light or image quality, this version won’t change the game.

To help you find exactly what fits your needs, here are the top picks from our list sorted by specific use-case categories:

Best Overall Action Camera: GoPro Hero 13 Black

This camera earns its spot thanks to its industry-first 8K60 resolution, cutting-edge HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilization, and superior low-light performance with NightBoost. It excels across all major performance metrics: resolution, stabilization, durability, and smart features like voice control and live streaming. For users wanting the best of everything without compromise, this is the definitive choice.

Best Budget Action Camera: GoPro Hero 9 Black

Ideal for price-conscious buyers, the Hero 9 delivers 5K30 video and 20MP photos—features that are rare at this price point. It includes HyperSmooth 3.0 stabilization, a front-facing screen for vlogging, and modular accessory compatibility. It's a well-rounded performer that doesn't break the bank.

Best for Content Creators/Vloggers: GoPro Hero 12 Black

Optimized for modern creators, the Hero 12 supports HDR video at 5.3K60 and adds Bluetooth audio connectivity for wireless mic support. Its improved heat management allows longer recording sessions—perfect for YouTube, interviews, or travel vlogs. Add a tripod and mic mod, and it's a full mobile production setup.

Best 360-Degree Camera: Insta360 Ace Pro 2

This model shines in creative flexibility, capturing 8K 360-degree video and featuring AI-powered reframing to create cinematic edits from any angle. FlowState stabilization is smooth and reliable, and the dual-lens design makes it a dream tool for immersive content and social media storytelling.

Best for Extreme Sports: GoPro Hero 11 Black

Built to withstand the most punishing conditions, the Hero 11 offers 5.3K60 video, HyperSmooth 5.0 stabilization, and Horizon Lock for maintaining level footage during intense movements like mountain biking, skiing, or motocross. Paired with the Enduro battery, it's perfect for long shoots in harsh environments.

Best Action Camera for Still Photography: Insta360 Ace Pro 2

If capturing high-resolution stills is your priority, the Insta360 Ace Pro 2 stands out as the best action camera for still photography in 2025. With its large 1/1.3" sensor, advanced image processing, and Leica optics, it delivers exceptional photo clarity even in challenging lighting. For creators who want both versatility and pro-level image quality, this camera offers a compelling alternative to traditional compact cameras. 

Best Low-Light Performance: DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro

With a large 1-inch sensor and excellent night shooting algorithms, this camera delivers rich detail and clarity in low-light scenes. Whether you're filming sunsets, indoor events, or cityscapes, the Osmo Action 5 Pro stands above the rest for evening and dusk shoots.

Smallest High-End Performer: GoPro Hero 10 Black

Compact yet incredibly capable, the Hero 10 offers 5.3K60 video with the lightning-fast GP2 processor for snappy performance and reduced lag. It's ideal for travelers or anyone needing high-spec recording in a small form factor.

Pairing the right accessories with your action camera can significantly enhance performance, versatility, and convenience. Here are the top-rated accessories compatible with the leading models featured in this guide:

1. Extra Batteries and Fast Chargers
Long shoots or cold weather conditions can drain batteries fast. Look for official or Enduro batteries (GoPro) and rapid dual-slot chargers to keep your gear running all day.

2. Floating Hand Grips and Waterproof Cases
Even if your camera is waterproof by design, a floating grip ensures it won’t sink. Dedicated dive housings allow deeper underwater shooting for scuba and snorkeling trips.

3. Magnetic Mounts and Suction Cups
Perfect for mounting to vehicles, helmets, or metal surfaces for dynamic POV footage. Look for rugged, vibration-resistant mounts for high-speed activities.

4. 3-Way Tripods and Extension Arms
GoPro’s 3-Way 2.0 or similar tripods offer handheld, extended, and tripod use cases. Great for vlogging, selfies, and capturing wide-angle scenes.

5. ND Filters and Lens Protectors
Neutral Density (ND) filters help control light and motion blur, while lens protectors safeguard your camera’s optics from scratches and dirt.

6. Wireless Microphones and Bluetooth Adapters
For clearer audio, especially in noisy environments, wireless mic kits (compatible with GoPro Hero 12/13 and Insta360) elevate production quality.

7. Memory Cards (UHS Speed Class 3 or V30+)
High-resolution recording demands fast, high-capacity microSD cards. Brands like SanDisk Extreme and Lexar Professional are reliable options.

8. Carrying Cases and Modular Storage Kits
Protect your investment with padded cases that hold your camera, mounts, filters, and batteries securely during travel.

These accessories complement the strengths of the best action cameras of 2025, giving you more control, better stability, and higher production value wherever your adventures take you.