14 Best GoPro Action Camera Alternatives

GoPro may be the first name that comes to mind when it comes to action cameras, but it is certainly not your only option. Many companies, big and small, have entered the industry over the past few years, and quite a few of them offer extremely compelling products at much lower price-points, so you can buy yourself a decent action camera these days without burning a hole in your pocket. So, if you are in the market for an action camera, let’s check out the 14 best GoPro alternatives you can buy in 2020.

Best GoPro Action Camera Alternatives

Seeing as GoPro has a whole host of devices in its portfolio, including action cameras like the Hero 8, 360-degree cameras, as well as smaller, inexpensive devices like the Session, we’re including a number of options that will also cover the entire gamut. So, irrespective of which GoPro camera you have in mind, you’ll very likely find an alternative for it on our list.

Here, we have categorized the list into three sections based on the price-point. Depending on your budget, you can click on the link below and move to the desired section easily.

1. GoPro Alternatives: High-end
2. GoPro Alternatives: Mid-range
3. GoPro Alternatives: Entry-level
4. Spec Comparison Table

• Buying Guide for Beginners

If you are looking to buy an action camera like GoPro then you should check if it comes with OIS. If not OIS then at least, it should come with EIS with a robust algorithm to shake off any vibration from videos. Next, a premium action camera should have 4K/60FPS recording capability, and budget action cameras should support 1080/60FPS recording. In addition, if the action camera offers you a touchscreen then it will be great for customizing video parameters on the go.

Further, you must check the build quality because action cameras are supposed to be rugged to survive the harsh atmosphere. Last but not the least, an action camera must be waterproof that can withstand at least 10m of water pressure. And if you get features like voice command, remote control through an app, wide-angle lens, HDR processing then those are added bonus.

Something that doesn’t relates to the action camera capabilities but is also quite important is the accessory support. Go Pro cameras have great accessory support, thanks to their popularity. If you are buying an action camera, make sure to see if it has the needed accessory market to allow you to adapt the camera for different shooting scenarios.

GoPro Alternatives: High-end

1. DJI Osmo Action

For a long time, the action camera space has been dominated by GoPro, but now with DJI’s foray into the pocket camera domain, the competition has gotten fierce. Last year, DJI launched its action camera under the Osmo series and it got rave reviews from all quarters. For good measure, it comes with 4K video recording at 60FPS. But that is not all. Osmo Action also supports HDR video rendering at 4K-60FPS which is just amazing.

It comes with three Aspherical Layers Lens and RockSteady technology which can shake off any jitter or vibration, delivering rock-solid footage just like GoPro cameras. Apart from that, you can shoot 8X slow-motion videos, control the camera with your voice, and customize quick switch button for easy navigation. The notable feature of DJI Osmo Action is the duo screen which is available on the back and front.

You can effortlessly choose various parameters and shoot videos then and there. Osmo Action is also waterproof at depths of up to 11 meters so that is good. Considering all the points, I would say DJI Osmo Action is an excellent alternative to GoPro action camera and you must give it a try.

Pros

• 4K at 60FPS
• Excellent stabilization
• 8X slow-motion
• HDR rendering

Cons

• No big cons as such
  

Buy From Amazon: ($239)

2. Insta360 ONE X

Midway between price-effectiveness and best features, the Insta360 ONE X supports up to 360-degree video recording at up to 5.7K. With the additional support of 50 fps recording, the videos turn out to be very smooth and satisfying. If you want stunning and cinema-quality video clips in slow motion, the ONE X supports 3K video recording at 100 fps. It is equipped with 210-degree dual fisheye lenses along with a Sony sensor.

Furthermore, the ONE X features FlowState Stabilization for Gimbal-like stability and super-smooth and stabilized hyperlapse videos. For direct transfer to smartphones, the camera features support for 5GHz Wi-Fi with a maximum of 50MBps speed. Additionally, the camera can not only take great videos but also shoot 18-megapixel circular photos and correction options to mask the official selfie stick and make it invisible.

Pros

• Best for 360-degree videos
• 5.7K recording
• FlowState stabilization
• WiFi direct sharing

Cons

• Battery life is low

Buy From Amazon: ($399.95)

3. Ricoh Theta V

Ricoh Theta V is a new addition to the company’s portfolio of action cameras and brings sharp 4K shooting the table. Besides 4K, it also shoots 360-degree videos at 30 fps. It has an excellent spherical camera that can help you shoot some great 360 videos.

What helps us count it among the greatest GoPro alternatives is its support for remote control, which lets you operate the action camera without touching it. For noisy environments, you may, instead, use the remote control included in the box.

Further, you can adjust the viewing angle of the lens and change between wide, medium, and narrow fields of view. For those who love to swim, Ricoh Theta V is a great option for capturing life underwater and can bear with any abrasion from water.

The only slightly disappointing bit may be the lack of optical image stabilization but it comes with Advanced EIS which should help you keep the videos defy the vibrations of adventure and adrenaline rush. Besides these features, the Ricoh Theta V also features Bluetooth and direct Wi-Fi sharing.

Pros

• Supports 4K
• 360-degree recording
• Advanced EIS
• WiFi sharing

Cons

• No display
• Need case for waterproofing

Buy From Amazon: ($376.95)

4. Sony FDR-X3000/R Action Cam

Sony’s flagship action camera, the FDR-X3000, may not necessarily be the market leader in its segment, but offers one critical feature that you won’t get with the GoPro Hero 8 – OIS (Optical Image Stabilization).

The FDR-X3000 is one of the best GoPro alternatives in the market right now, although, unlike the GoPro devices that look more like small boxes with a lens affixed on one side, it looks more like a sized-down camcorder than anything else. The device comes with a 12MP Exmor R CMOS sensor with ZEISS lens. It can shoot 4K videos at up to 30fps and super slow-mo videos at up to 240fps, but only if you’re willing to live with 720p resolution.

The Sony FDR-X3000 comes with built-n Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC, GPS, HDMI, USB and microphone jack, and has 3x rec. lights and adjustable beep volume for better control. There’s also an ‘R’ version that comes with a LiveView Remote – the RM-LVR3 – which connects to the camera via Bluetooth, allowing it to be controlled remotely. The camera also comes with a splash-proof design, but there’s also a waterproof case that allows it to be used at up to 197 meters under water.

Sony also makes the HDR-AS50 action camera, which is priced nearly half as the X3000 but brings almost the same features. The only areas where it lags behind the X3000 or X3000R are the smaller focal range, and limitation of Full HD videos to 60fps, while the 120fps mode is only available in HD (720p) videos.

Pros

• 4K recording
• Supports OIS
• ZEISS Lens
• Great underwater performance

Cons

• Slightly bulky

Buy From Amazon: ($368) 

5. Olympus Tough TG-6

Olympus may be a well-known name for photography enthusiasts, but the company only recently entered the action camera market with the TG-6 that stands out from the crowd of me-too action cameras with a rugged and stylish design. The device also got the specs and features to match those looks, making it a serious GoPro alternative.

The device features a 12MP sensor that’s paired with an f/2.0 lens to capture fast action with crispness and clarity. At 204-degree angle of view, the lens is also wider than the GoPro Hero 8 Black, which has a maximum angle of view of around 150 degrees. The camera can shoot 4K videos at 30 frames per second (fps), but 1080p can go up to 120 fps.

There’s also 5-axis electronic image stabilization (EIS) to reduce blur and camera shakes. There’s a 1.5” tilt-out LCD monitor to make it easier for users to compose shots while on the move, and a front LED headlight of 60 lumens to make it possible to shoot in the dark.

The device also comes with Wi-Fi connectivity, is waterproof up to a depth of 100 feet, and has 5 built-in sensors including, GPS, magnetometer (e-Compass), accelerometer, thermometer and barometer. Overall, the tough design, waterproofing and good quality photos and videos make the Olympus Tough TG-6 a great action camera, especially when you take into account its price-point.

Pros

• 4K recording
• WiFi support
• Built-in sensors
• Rugged design

Cons

• No touchscreen

Buy From Amazon: ($379)

6. Garmin Virb 360

If the Campark X30 is on the affordable side of things, the Garmin Virb 360 is at the other end of the spectrum. It’s rugged, it’s waterproof, it’s bigger, it’s heavier, and it comes with features that even the GoPro Fusion can only dream. If you thought the ability to shoot 4K videos on the Fusion was cool, the Virb 360 is on another planet altogether.

The device can snap 15MP images and shoot 5.7K videos at 30fps, although, un-stitched. It can also shoot standard 4K videos at the same frame-rate with in-camera stitching. The device also has 4 built-in microphones to capture 360-degree audio, as well as 4K spherical stabilization’ to ensure smooth videos regardless of camera movement.

In terms of hardware, the Garmin Virb 360 ships with 2x 1/2.3-inch 12MP CMOS sensors, and has built-in GPS and GLONASS. It is also compatible with Garmin’s proprietary G-Metrix technology that displays data overlays in 360-degree augmented reality.

Another cool feature of the camera is that it can be controlled through voice, with “OK Garmin” being the trigger words. Sensors include GPS, accelerometer, barometer, gyroscope and magnetometer (e-compass), while wireless connectivity features include Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth and ANT+. The device carries a 1,250mAh battery that is said to shoot more than 1 hour on a single charge.

Pros

• 360-degree video support
• Supports 5.7K resolution
• Decent battery life
• Spatial audio

Cons

• No built-in stabilization
• Cost is high

Buy From Garmin: ($799.99)

GoPro Alternatives: Mid-range

7. AKASO Brave 7

The AKASO Brave 7 action camera is one feature-packed GoPro alternative you might want to consider. This is an action camera that features a 2“ touch display, supports 4K at 30FPS video recording with advanced EIS and captures 20MP photos. All that is great but what makes this action camera a great buy are the unique features.

First of all, this is a pretty compact and lightweight action camera weighing in at just 80 grams with a battery inside. Secondly, it has features like the diving mode, which filters the red light underwater, and since the camera comes with a waterproof case in the box, you can take it for a swim.

There are a lot more features here, like wireless app control, an adjustable view angle lens that has four different settings up to super wide-angle, support for timelapse, slow motion, wind noise reduction, long exposure and more.

The AKASO Brave 7 action camera is available on Amazon for $139 and it’s a great deal because it comes with all the accessories you are going to need. The package includes two 1350mAh batteries for the action camera, a waterproof case, a remote control, a bicycle stand, a 10x mount, a 2x helmet mount, five tethers, a protective backdoor and more.

Yes, the Brave 7 has you covered when it comes to features and the accessories, so if you are looking for a feature-packed and affordable GoPro alternative, the AKASO Brave 7 should be a good bit.

Pros

• Sharp 4K recording
• Advanced EIS
• Supports timelapse, slow-motion
• Touchscreen available

Cons

• No 60FPS support

Buy from Amazon: ($139.99)

8. Campark X30

Campark X30 is the latest addition to the company’s series of action cameras and noticeably the most powerful one. The camera is capable of shooting 4K video at 60 fps and 1080p at 120fps. The Campark X30 sports a 12-megapixel sensor for still photography and comes with a smart LCD display inside the box package which hooks on to the action camera.

Besides the LCD display, the Campark X30 comes with a score of accessories within the box including a protective case, tripod mounts, adhesive pads, lens protector, decals, lanyards, and a USB cable.

The Campark X30 uses a 1350 mAh battery, which is claimed to last for up to three hours of continuous recording. Moreover, with the dedicated app for Android and iOS, adventurers can download captured videos and images over Wi-Fi, or view and even share a live video directly on your social media.

The Campark X30 is packed with additional features like the automatic recording when the inbuilt gyroscope sense any change in the gravity, making it one of the desirable GoPro alternatives.

Pros

• 4K at 60FPS supported
• Touchscreen display
• Great battery life
• Can withstand deep waters

Cons

• None

Buy From Amazon: ($108.99)

9. Drift Ghost X

Designed and marketed by U.K.-based Drift Innovation, the Drift Ghost X is yet another cool GoPro alternative that was launched recently as a significant upgrade over its predecessor, the Drift HD Action Camera that was released back in 2016.

While its predecessor could only shoot 720p videos at 30fps, the Drift Ghost X can do 1080p videos at up to 30fps. The camera comes with the 12MP Sony IMX117CQT 1/2.3 CMOS sensor with 4GB NAND Flash and 8GB DDR3L (low-voltage) memory. The device also comes with dual-band Wi-Fi connectivity over 2.4GHz and 5.8GHz.

Buy From Amazon: ($99)

GoPro Alternatives: Entry-level

10. AKASO EK7000

Last, but definitely not the least, we have the undisputed king of the inexpensive action cameras – the AKASO EK7000. The device costs barely $75 on Amazon, but comes with a list of features that belies its price. It’s got a 12-megapixel sensor that’s paired with a 170-degree wide-angle lens, and can shoot 4K videos at 25fps.

The camera supports Wi-Fi and HDMI connectivity and, comes with 2 rechargeable 1,050mAh batteries, each of which is said to record videos for up to 90 minutes. The device features a 2″ LCD display and, is waterproof up to 100 feet.

The EK7000 ships with a ‘Wireless Wrist Remote’ that makes it convenient to control the camera, frame shots or record video remotely via Wi-Fi. The camera also offers a burst mode that shoots photos at 30 frames per second, while a time-lapse mode shoots photos automatically at set time intervals from 0.5 to 60 seconds. All things considered, the EK7000 is very likely the best, time-tested, inexpensive GoPro alternative if there ever was one.

Pros

• 4K recording
• Remote control
• Comes with two rechargeable batteries
• Wireless sharing

Cons

• Battery life is mediocre

Buy From Amazon: ($59.99)

11. Campark 4K

If you’ve found Campark’s above-mentioned action camera to be an attractive option but are cash-strapped, the Campark 4K can be a good choice. Despite being priced at one-fourth of the X30, the Campark 4K comes with 4K recording at 30 fps thanks to the Sony IMX206 sensor. The action camera is equipped with dual-band Wi-Fi and Bluetooth to let you control the camera remotely and to share the captured media using a smartphone.

The power-packed and pocket-friendly Campark 4K can also capture images at 20MP and features EIS to keep the images still. There’s a 2-inch display for I/O and the inbuilt battery can capture videos at 1080p continuously for over two hours. Lastly, to have more control over your shots, you can also set individual image quality parameters to capture good-looking shots irrespective of the ambiance.

Pros

• 4K recording 
• Withstand deep waters
• External mic included
• Remote control

Cons

• No touchscreen

Buy From Amazon: ($39.99)

12. Dragon Touch 4K

Dragon Touch 4K offers the rich features of a great and reliable action camera in a much smaller form factor. It comes in quirky colors and small modular designs. The small camera is more suitably a lifestyle action camera. However, it comes with electronic image stabilization and the ability to remotely control the device, which makes it a worthy GoPro alternative.

The Dragon Touch 4K supports up to 4K videos at 30 fps and can capture at Full HD resolution at 60 fps. Besides videos, it takes 8-megapixel images and comes with a 900mAh battery that can last for over 100 minutes of continuous high definition recording.

Dragon Touch 4K also offers a variety of accessories such as the waterproof and shockproof casing, a variety of mounts, and a protective cover to give you the confidence of taking the Dragon on adventures.

Pros

• Supports 4K 
• 170-degree wide-angle camera
• 60FPS at 1080p
• EIS available

Cons

• Battery life is mediocre

Buy From Amazon: ($39.99)

13. Crosstour Action Camera

Crosstour Action Camera has been upgraded over the last-gen camera and comes with key upgrades over the previous version. The most attractive and welcome addition is that of support for 4K recording at this price. The Crosstour Action Camera now has a 2-inch screen and the smaller bezels give it a more modern look.

The Crosstour Action Camera comes with built-in dual-band Wi-Fi and using the waterproof case, you can take it for a swim with you. It can be submerged in water for a depth of up to 40 meters.

The Crosstour Action Camera also has a bigger, 1050mAh battery compared to its predecessor and uses gyro-based stabilization to ensure the videos are unshakable as your enthusiasm. The DV King 4K app comes in handy when you wish to remotely control the camera as well as for automatically backing up captured media can to your phone.

Pros

• 4K recording
• Great underwater performance
• Sturdy design
• Dedicated app
• WiFi sharing

Cons

• Battery life is low

Buy From Amazon: ($39.99)

14. VanTop Moment 3

VanTop Moment 3 is our final action camera on this list which offers you all the basic features of GoPro cameras. But even at this price, it offers you 4K recording at 30FPS which is simply amazing. The VanTop Moment 3 uses a premium Sony sensor so you can expect a much better output. And if you want to shoot at 1080p then you can take advantage of 60FPS recording. That’s quite too much for the price, right?

Apart from that, you can take still shots of 16MP, take ultra-wide videos (170-degree), create time-lapse and slow-motion videos as well. Not to mention, there is support for wireless sharing and remote control too through its XDV app. Lastly, talking about waterproofing, it can remain underwater to the depth of 30m. All in all, VanTop Moment 3 is an excellent GoPro alternative if you want an action camera for an affordable price.

Pros

• Sony sensor
• Can record 4K videos
• 60FPS support for 1080p videos
• Advanced EIS

Cons

• No touchscreen

Buy From Amazon: ($39.99)

Spec Comparison Table

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What is a Cheaper Alternative to a GoPro?

I would easily recommend the new DJI Osmo Action. It costs much lesser than the latest GoPro Hero 8. But if you are on a budget then go for Akaso Brave 7 or Campark 4K.

Q. Is GoPro Still the Best?

GoPro is still the king when it comes to shooting high-motion videos. It comes with HyperSmooth stabilization, HDR processing, rugged build-quality and tons of accessories to make your footage stand-out. That said, companies like DJI are catching up by offering cheaper and robust alternatives.

Q. Which GoPro Should I Buy in 2020?

If you can’t afford the Hero 8 then you can go for Hero 7. It has got most of the latest features and costs almost half.

Q. Which is Better GoPro 8 or Max?

If you have a higher budget then surely go for Max. As the name suggests, GoPro has literally maxed out the specs. You have got 6K recording, improved HyperSmooth stabilization, bigger screen, 270-degree panorama, and much more.

Q. Which GoPro is Best for Underwater?

All GoPro models can sustain water depth of 10m without any external casing. However, keep in mind GoPro Max is the only exception and it’s only resistant up to 5m which is surprising. So all I would say is get the standard GoPro model and use a case to extend waterproofing.

Q. Why is GoPro so Expensive?

GoPro is generally expensive because it really offers you a rock-solid experience. You have HyperSmooth technology which is unparalleled in the industry, excellent build quality that is unmatched, spatial audio recording, and much more.

Pick the Best GoPro Alternative

GoPro cameras are some of the best that money can buy, but if you do sniff around, there are enough deals to be had that can get you either similar devices at much lower price points or higher-spec devices at similar price-points. Since offerings from unknown manufacturers are always a risk, we have largely restricted ourselves to recommending products from reputable vendors, such as DJI, Garmin, and Olympus, all of whom offer great GoPro alternatives at pocket-friendly prices to satiate your hunger for the best action camera.