Made popular by the GoPro brand, these devices are created for outdoor enthusiasts. If you want to take photos or videos of anything that would be too risky with a regular camera, an action camera is the perfect solution. As a reminder, these are small, portable and rugged devices that can record videos and still images. If you are looking for a reference in the matter, the GoPro Hero9 Black is a must. This little wonder is capable of shooting 5K video at 30fps and is also waterproof up to 10m. Another impressive alternative is the DJI Osmo Action. It features a front-facing screen perfect for vloggers, making it easier than ever to record yourself and produce amazing content for social media and YouTube.
Buying Guide – How To Choose A Good Action Camera?
As you read this article, you are probably wondering where to buy the best action camera or even which action camera to choose. These devices may differ in terms of features and also price. It is then necessary to identify which action camera best meets your specific expectations. Help yourself with this buying guide for the best action cameras you can buy in Canada right now.
The frame rate
The frame rate is expressed in frames per second or FPS (frame per second in English). This is a measure of how many successive frames an action camera can handle each second. For you to have concrete references, a classic camera films at 30 FPS while television is limited to 24 or even 30 FPS. How to choose the best action cameras of 2022 often comes down to relying on key criteria like this.
High-end action cameras can capture footage at 60 FPS. This makes movements smoother. Some devices may support higher frames per second. This is the case of action cameras which can produce videos of 120 FPS. These can then be used to create crisper slow motion footage.
The resolution
Resolution is the number of pixels in each image captured by a device. It is also an index of the amount of detail present in a photo. For your information, 720p (1280 x 720 pixels) and 1080p (1920 pixels wide by 1080 pixels high) video format are considered standard HD resolutions.
4K resolution, which is 3,840 x 2,160 pixels, is about four times as many pixels as Full HD. Even if you don’t have a 4K monitor, it’s worth looking into 4K camera stock first for top quality images and video.
Battery life
Keep this in mind: even the best action camera with a great battery will only be able to run for a few hours. It is therefore essential to invest in a portable charger or in several batteries. This way, your action camera won’t run out of juice when you need it most.
Memory
Opting for flexible memory is highly recommended to get the most out of your action camera. When shooting HD movies, video files take up a lot of storage space. For this kind of case, it is therefore highly recommended to choose a high capacity memory card to ensure that you can record as many sequences as possible.
Most action cameras use micro SD cards. For these models, it is suggested to purchase a Class 10 card to ensure exceptional video quality. The higher the class of your card, the faster it can record your video. You guessed it, going for a slower class of card than recommended means video that will be jerky.
Water resistance
It is also necessary to select very waterproof action cameras if you plan to use your machine underwater. A few devices are only water resistant, which means that they can only be submerged in water to a very limited depth.
Other models require a special waterproof case to capture footage underwater. Always take the time to check the camera specifications for details on acceptable water depths.
Image stabilization
If you want videos that are stable and therefore easy to watch, opt for an action camera with built-in image stabilization. If your budget allows, you can also buy a stabilizer.
The field of vision
A wide field of view is essential for action cameras. Indeed, this one allows you to record videos or still images in a more immersive perspective than a normal camera. As a reminder, field of view is a measure of the total visible area at any given time and it is measured as an angle. The larger the value, the wider the viewing angle.
The mounting system
The majority of these devices are made to be attached to different surfaces. The editing system is indeed important for filming videos of your adventures from a first-person perspective.
Most cameras come with one or two mounts in the box. That said, additional mounts cost extra. So if you are looking to attach your camera to a specific area, such as the handlebars of a bike, you will need to get a specific bike mount.
A good action camera will offer a universal mounting system. Because of this, you can attach your camera to anything without the need to purchase additional accessories.
Your budget
The money you are willing to invest could heavily influence the selection of device and even where to buy a new action camera. If you have a rather tight budget, you will surely be interested to know how to buy an action camera with better value for money. To do this, it is interesting to consult a price comparison.
The 5 Best Action Cameras (Reviews & Tests) of 2022
So what is the best action camera on the market? Generally, a great model has a mix of ruggedness, connectivity, and video capability. In order to save you time, we have prepared a comparison of the most viable models at the moment. We’ve considered all sorts of different factors, including price, so you can be sure you’re getting a good deal.
1. GoPro Hero9 Black Waterproof Action Camera with Display
It would be hard to talk about action camera without mentioning GoPro. This is undoubtedly what launched and popularized the modern movement of these devices. But the top action camera brand continues to increase the quality and quantity of its devices’ features, all in a small package with the HERO9 Black.
The latter makes 5K video recording possible, capturing even the smallest details of texture, light and color. The HERO9 is also up to the challenges of live streaming, with the ability to live stream in 1080p. The HyperSmooth 3.0 video stabilization is pretty amazing and does a great job of stabilizing even shaky footage.
For still shots, the 20MP SuperPhoto takes professional-level photos and can select the best ones to use. Meanwhile, the TimeWarp 3.0 feature makes it easy to record time-lapse scenes, ideal for things like documentaries or a travel digest.
The device has a front screen allowing to have a suitable shooting.
The excellent waterproofness of the HERO9 makes long underwater captures possible. It is therefore ideal for diving enthusiasts.
The HERO9 has 20MP for photos and 14.7MP for videos.
The HyperSmooth 3.0 option is most relevant for the most hectic sequences.
The HERO9 features a larger physical size than other GoPros, which could be a problem when transporting or storing the device.
2. Dji Osmo Action
DJI has spent the better part of a decade dominating the drone world and developing class-leading image stabilization technology. And now, the brand has concentrated its know-how in the manufacture of its first action camera. The DJI OSMO Action is slightly bigger and heavier if compared to the HERO7 Black.
However, this is acceptable considering how it packs a color display on the front in addition to a 2.25-inch touchscreen on the back. Much like the GoPro, the OSMO Action offers a range of control options, including voice activation.
There are two built-in microphones, but it is recommended to add an external microphone to enjoy the best audio quality. The DJI OSMO Action is generally cheaper. However, it is also the most efficient. Plus, it offers that front display that is a must for vloggers.
Of course, it’s a go-to alternative for any other activity where you want the camera pointed at you and need to see how you’re framed.
The front LCD monitor is highly recommended for vlogging.
The OSMO Action offers impeccable image stabilization. However, it is not expensive at all.
The OSMO Action does not have all the accessory options of the GoPro line.
3. Yi 4K Action & Sports Camera
The YI 4K Action Camera draws heavily from the latest versions of technology found in the HERO4 Black. These specifications result in an action camera that has the same shooting options as the latter. These include recording video in high bitrate 4K resolution at 30 FPS, 1080p at 120 FPS and 720p at 240 FPS.
The YI 4K has better battery life compared to the HERO4 Black. Moreover, the performance is so much better that YI even put a touch screen on the back. This is an option that is only available for the HERO4 Black as an additional accessory. That said, however, we note the absence of support for the waterproofing of the device during the purchase.
In addition, you may have some trouble reaching the Micro SD card of the YI 4K. Also make sure you are in the shade when you plan to use the device’s LCD screen.
This is thanks to the technology found in the YI 4K action camera. For a better user experience, its touch screen is also of a very rich quality.
The wi-fi stability offered by the YI 4K action camera is very convenient for those who often log in to social networks.
An additional protective housing is required for underwater use, resulting in additional costs.
It is a bit difficult to access the Micro SD slot.
It is complicated to use the LCD screen when you are under the sun.
4. Apexcam Apexel 4K Action Camera
The Apexel 4K is an extremely versatile and affordable entry-level action camera. It has most of the features you would expect from a high caliber camera. This action camera can be used in all sorts of situations, delivering stunning 4K quality at 30 FPS.
Video is at an incredible 20MP image resolution, offering EIS anti-shake, image stabilization and features a 170° super wide-angle lens. This allows you to enjoy smooth and stable HD video without distortion and with sharpness. This camera promises to be a safe option for any sports enthusiast.
Mount your camera with the included mounting accessories, then control functions with the 2.4G wireless wrist remote. Preview footage on the two-inch LCD screen. The camera is IP68 rated and is durable enough to operate in 40 meters of deep water.
The Apexel 4K has plenty of features to ensure smooth footage is captured.
Outstanding video quality at a decent price.
The Apexel 4K is waterproof enough to film several hours underwater.
The Apexel 4K suffers from poor shot synchronization.
Connectivity via a Wi-Fi network is unreliable for performing remote operations with this action camera.
5. The Dragon Touch 4K Action Camera Vision 3
The Dragon Touch 4K is a versatile action camera that can be used as a dashcam, webcam and surveillance camera. Therefore, it can turn out to be a great investment for anyone looking for a capture medium for different purposes. This is a simple camera for scuba diving that allows you to take images up to 30m underwater.
You can also take photos/videos using the wireless wrist remote which you can easily export to your computer later. The wireless range extends up to a distance of 10m, which leaves plenty of flexibility for capturing moments in hard-to-reach places.
Capable of outputting 4K video at 30 FPS, 1080p at 60 FPS, it’s one of the best beginner dual-sensor cameras you’ll come across on the market today. Indeed, the Dragon Touch 4K is very easy to use.
The Dragon Touch 4K boasts a compact size, which is convenient for storage and travel.
The capture of still images and 4K videos from the Dragon Touch 4K is most qualitatively satisfactory.
This action camera is versatile with its many available modes and settings to choose from.
It is possible to use this device underwater up to a depth of 30m.
The Dragon Touch 4K boasts a long runtime, which is ideal for long adventure sessions.
The Dragon Touch does not have sensors for image stabilization. In addition to the fact that the micro card is not provided when purchasing the device, its remote control is not waterproof.
frequently asked Questions
Q1: What is an action camera?
This is a device that takes photos and videos. However, unlike regular cameras, action cameras come with a range of accessories that allow you to attach them to virtually anything.
What’s the point of that? You will be able to make epic mini movies and take unreal photos. Action cameras let your loved ones feel what you see as you zipline down a mountain or through surreal landscapes.
Q2: How do I use an action camera?
To make your video more engaging, try shooting it multiple times with the camera mounted from different positions. This helps you get a more comprehensive view of actions. You may find that some positions work better than others. The handlebars of your mountain bike may produce coarser images than the view from your chest, for example.
Here are some tips that can make using your action camera even easier:
– Always capture additional footage to have something to work with during editing.
– Look for cameras with Wi-Fi connectivity so you can instantly share videos or photos.
– Many cameras have on-the-go editing capability, so you can string together footage as you go. Many even have proprietary editing software built-in.
Q3: Where should the camera be placed in relation to the axis of action?
You can’t always walk around holding your device, and there are times when you’ll need both hands (for climbing, for example). Attaching the action camera to one part of your body is the easiest way for you to digitally record your entire trip while keeping all your limbs free.
To do this, you can use various supports such as:
– A helmet support for action camera
– A chest support for action camera
– A shoulder support for action camera
Q4: What is a Wi-Fi action camera?
These are devices that can be controlled via devices like smartphones using a Wi-Fi network. Most Wi-Fi action cameras are capable of recording 4k video in pristine quality without any issues. Thanks to their large sensors, they are also able to capture excellent photos that can be immediately transferred to your smartphone using Wi-Fi.
Q5: How to mount an action camera on a motorcycle helmet?
The most typical area to mount your action camera is the top of the helmet, but it’s not the most effective. If you don’t aim the camera correctly, you may not see everything in your field of vision. However, this is excellent for a front or rear view.
Place the bracket at the top center of the helmet and look for vents that the bracket straps will pass through. Open the clips on the sides, thread the straps through the clips and vents on each side. Pull the straps tight and close the clips. Once the mount is secure and not moving, install the camera and tighten the screws to hold it in place.
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