Jump to:
GoPro might be synonymous with the action camera space, but it’s not an end-all and be-all solution for tough, light, and small cameras. We’ll show you our top picks for the 7 best GoPro alternatives in 2022 and the features to consider when buying.
What Are the Best GoPro Alternatives?
GoPro is a pioneer in the action camera industry. However, the manufacturer is no longer the only quality option you can purchase. But so many options can make it hard to find a camera that accommodates your requirements and application.
Whether you’re after an excellent action camera for diving, a high-quality version for 4k video, or a cheap but good GoPro knockoff, we’ve got you covered.
Our Picks for the Best GoPro Alternatives
- Best Overall: DJI Osmo Action
- Best Value for Money: YI 4K Action
- Best Vlogging Alternative: AKASO Brave 7 LE
- Best Handheld Alternative: DJI Pocket 2
- Best Underwater Alternative: OLYMPUS Tough TG-6
- Best Budget Alternative: AKASO V50X
- Best Tiny Form Factor Alternative: NSTA360 GO 2
There are many GoPro alternatives on the market, but each device on this list ranks as a high-quality unit for quality video and image results. However, why should you be looking at GoPro alternatives?
Why You Need GoPro Alternatives
Alexander_Magnum/Shutterstock
With the latest release of the GoPro camera, more people are looking into other similar action cameras. The newest GoPros are expensive and don’t have more to offer that you won’t find in the previous models.
Many quality-to-price alternatives to the GoPro bring you features such as image stabilization, Wi-Fi, and even voice control. Such features make the action cameras excellent alternatives for users who want more than just HD video.
And you may find that the GoPro features don’t quite fulfill a unique requirement. Fortunately, there are many fantastic alternatives to choose from.
Best GoPro Alternatives: Our Top 7 Picks
We detail below descriptions of our top seven picks for the best GoPro alternatives. All devices are available online for reasonable prices.
1. DJI Osmo Action Cam: Best Overall
- Good still photo and video quality
- A dedicated built-in slow-motion mode
- Easy-to-use menus
- You don’t get an HDMI port or GPS
- Image quality isn’t as good as GoPro
DJI Osmo Action has a sturdy construction capable of withstanding temperatures as low as 14 degrees Fahrenheit and an advertised 36-foot depth. The DJI camera has a second front-facing screen for easy self-monitoring during recording.
You get 4k video support up to 60 fps and 1080p up to 240 fps, so you can shoot multiple frame rates for different filming styles.
A built-in digital stabilization mode ensures smooth recordings, but you’ll experience a 1.3x crop effect. The DJI Osmo Action has a 1,300 mAh battery that lasts about 85 minutes for recording 4k continuously.
Keep the camera going longer using the USB-C cable in the package for uninterrupted recording sessions. The Osmo Action looks a lot like a GoPro, and its features make it one of the best alternatives you can get without paying a premium.
2. YI 4K Action: Best Value for Money
- Detailed 2-hour 4k videos at 30fps
- 130-minute long battery life for long videos
- A larger touchscreen than the GoPro
- No GPS or voice-activated control
- A hard-to-access MicroSD card slot
This unit may seem basic, but the 2.2-inch touchscreen offers intuitive and smooth controls. You can control the camera by remote via Bluetooth or use its built-in Wi-Fi capability to connect to the internet.
The remote control feature allows flipping between live view, time-lapse, and loop modes, with the first option taking pictures as you record video.
You get a library laying out the clips and images you capture and an option to transfer low- or high-resolution versions to a phone. There’s an option to use a micro USB cable to download high-resolution files to a PC for further editing.
YI 4k Action boasts a minimalist design with an open front. Most of the rear houses the touchscreen with a 160-degree viewing angle.
The camera is impact resistant and is only waterproof when you add a case. A large, rechargeable 1,400 mAh lithium-ion battery pack supports an impressive two and eight hours of recording and standby, respectively.
3. AKASO Brave 7 LE: Best Vlogging Alternative
- A selfie screen
- The effective image stabilization feature
- Compatible with almost all mounts
- The camera can’t capture 4k at 60 fps
- The selfie screen is small
The camera has a back screen for controlling and navigating the menu, while a front display makes taking selfies and immersive Point of View (POV) shots easy. This Akaso Brave 7 LE has several features often in higher-priced units.
A six-axis image stabilization feature makes the footage look smooth. The voice control feature allows controlling camera functions hands-free, which is convenient when your hands are busy holding onto something or the camera is out of reach.
You can connect the Brave 7 LE to a smartphone using the Akaso Go app. Pairing over local Wi-Fi makes framing a shot and operating the shutter effortless from your phone. You can also review photos on the camera.
The highest video capability of the Akaso Brave 7 LE camera is 4k at 30 fps, which is enough for many users. Recorded videos look good in all conditions, making the Brave 7 LE a big hit for vloggers.
4. DJI Pocket 2: Best Handheld Alternative
- A physical stabilization gimbal
- Excellent face tracking capabilities
- Lightweight and portable
- Gets hot when filming a 4k video
- Cumbersome for non-vlogging purposes
The action camera is selfie-ready right out of the box. Further, a built-in 3-axis motorized gimbal means you don’t rely on battery-sapping stabilization software.
You have an option of several stabilizing options locking the camera into one or more axes for effects such as preventing back-and-forth camera tilting or horizon leveling. The Pocket 2 boasts one of the best handheld designs on a GoPro alternative.
An autofocus system brings you an activity tracking feature, so the camera follows your movement automatically. You also get a large sensor offering better quality video, especially in low light.
The camera shoots in 4k and 1080p up to 60 fps, and a slow-mo mode captures 1080p video at 240 or 120 fps. On-body and wireless microphones offer users decent sound quality. Wireless mics are worth considering if you want to hide the microphone holes.
Further, the wireless mic feature is critical while using the tracking feature of the Pocket 2. Download the DJI Mimo app and take full advantage of the capabilities of your camera using a smartphone. The app has a comprehensive manual packed with how-to videos, tricks, and tips.
You can also get in touch with the DJI support and forum and share videos you take with other DJI enthusiasts. You don’t have to rely on expensive editing software because the app has an editor.
5. OLYMPUS Tough TG-6: Best Underwater Alternative
- A tough and durable build that can take a licking
- A super slow-mo video feature
- Includes GPS tracking
- The LCD and image quality suffer under bright conditions
- You don’t get an eye-level viewfinder
This GoPro alternative boasts a 12 MP sensor and a 4x optical zoom lens. The design makes it a worthy purchase for parents and shooters that want something that can drop into wet environments and serious underwater photographers.
If underwater is your scene, choose the fish mode for multiple choices that depend on the situation. The underwater macro mode helps optimize close-up shots of small objects, and an underwater microscope lets you get close-and-personal views of a subject.
Choose the underwater wide mode when in a dark environment in water, while the underwater snapshot feature uses natural light in shallow water situations.
The underwater HDR mode records multiple exposures to reproduce the dark and bright dramatic underwater scenes. Adventurous such as hikers will appreciate the camera sensors and tracking abilities.
A GPS records the location of each photo you take during the journey. Other environmental sensors in the Olympus Tough TG-6 include a depth gauge, accelerometer, compass, and thermometer.
You can see all the data the camera’s capturing when exploring the outdoors by pressing the “info” button. This Olympus action camera comes with an impressive collection of accessories.
Some of these include an underwater housing for underwater shots as deep as 50 feet below the surface. You also get fisheye and wide-angle conversion lenses. The Olympus Tough TG-6 works with wireless flashes.
6. AKASO V50X: Best Budget Alternative
- Excellent value for money
- You get an impressive amount of bundled accessories
- More features than many competitors
- Poor color accuracy in low light
- The internal microphone offers poor sound pickup
Our pick for the best budget alternative is this Akaso V50X, shooting 4k videos at 30 fps and stills at 20MP. The camera has many software and hardware features, making it a unique entry into the budget alternative scene.
The Akaso V50X built-in image stabilization ensures shaky hands and vibrations don’t ruin your shots. You also get a standard battery life maxing out at about 90 minutes.
Switching between four viewing angles is possible with the camera, something we hope other low-cost cameras could offer. A narrow view field prevents barrel distortion, which is common with many action camera videos.
Akaso offers an optional clip-on mic for plugging into the side USB port of the V50X. The camera also supports many accessories, including an extra battery and dedicated charger for when you’re on the move.
Other accessories include different mounts, a waterproof case, and a wrist-mount remote. There’s iOS and Android app support, and connecting your phone via Wi-Fi offers control over file transfers and settings.
7. INSTA360 GO 2: Best Tiny Form Factor Alternative
- Good image quality
- Accessories include a protective charger case and built-in tripod
- The case is also a wireless remote
- No scene composition screen
- In-camera stabilization isn’t as good as the GoPro
The pill-shaped camera is barely bigger than the thumb and only weighs as much as an AA battery. Filming without buttons is as simple as a tap on the space under the lens! The tiny form factor of the Go 2 makes it versatile.
A magnetic back lets you stick the camera onto several metal surfaces. For example, you can snap it to your fridge and record time-lapse footage for TikTok or stick it to the handlebars and capture your biking adventures.
Insta360 also includes a pendant necklace in the package for POV-style footage. You can connect to the Insta360 Go 2 action camera using an app via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.
Use the app as a remote control with live view, send button commands, and switch settings. The editing capabilities of the app use an AI algorithm to select the best sections in longer clips.
Finding the Best GoPro Alternative for You
frantic00/Shutterstock
Make sure you choose an alternative that’s right for you.
Image and Video Quality
The video and image quality of any camera is the most important considerations. You’ll want to capture memories in the highest resolution possible.
Many GoPro alternatives provide 4k at a 30 fps frame rate. Also, look for a GoPro alternative that offers at least 1080p resolution.
The Size and Weight
A small and lightweight action camera makes carrying it around easy. These specs are critical when you plan to carry the camera along to document travel adventures.
Also, consider the camera shape. Square action cameras are easier to hang around your neck, for example.
Battery Life
Select a cam with long battery life. Some action cameras can offer up to five hours of recording time on a single charge.
The last thing you want to worry about is running out of battery when having the time of your life. So, check the specs!
Water Resistance
Many cameras are splash-proof, but not all work underwater. Always look for a water-resistant GoPro alternative if you plan to travel to the beach or take underwater videos.
Even better, choose a camera specifically for underwater filming. This will let you capture beautiful moments when kayaking, diving, or snorkeling.
Durability
An action camera documents your adventures. So, you need a durable device capable of withstanding all weather conditions.
You also require a camera that can take a few beatings. Otherwise, it’ll not last long, and you’ll spend much more on fixing or replacing it.
Image Stabilization
Image stabilization helps prevent blurred images and shaky videos. The feature ensures scenes in your fast-paced sports are smooth. Many GoPro alternatives come with electronic image stabilization, which is suitable for casual use.
Connectivity
Photos and videos of your adventures let you relive these moments later. You can also share your adventures with family and friends. So, good connectivity is critical.
Does the camera action come with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity options? How easy is transferring the footage and images to your smartphone, computer, or even the cloud?
Accessories
You’re capturing dynamic activities, so additional accessories are necessary. Some of these include helmet mounts, tripods, and carrying cases. Make sure the camera you choose has accessories that make shooting the scenes comfortable.
Frequently Asked Questions
wk1003mike/Shutterstock
Here are some questions we frequently get from those looking for GoPro alternatives.
What’s a GoPro camera?
GoPros are compact and sleek action cameras for taking quality photos and videos. The durable, rugged, and waterproof camera construction makes them ideal for carrying when in the ocean, running, hiking, biking, and anywhere you dare go!
Why do I need an action camera?
Action cameras are lightweight, small, and easy to mount on anything. The units fit in the hand and are far easier to carry along on your adventures than the standard DSLR or digital cameras.
Is GoPro worth it?
We say yes. The cameras are useful tools for outdoor activities and sports activities. GoPro cameras easily attach to surfboards, bikes, or helmets so you don’t carry a large unit. However, there are times you should invest in a different action camera model.
Are there cheap GoPros?
Technology is making cameras more affordable and even better. Yes, you can get a GoPro for $100 today. However, you must look at how you intend to use the camera. For example, a GoPro budget action camera will probably not last if you want to film underwater scenes.
What is the best cheap action camera on the market?
The Akaso V50X ranks as the most affordable action camera. However, you’ll find other units cheaper. The critical factor here is quality and durability.
So, What Are the Best GoPro Alternatives?
We’ve covered seven action cameras, from advanced models to budget-friendly options. Our guide shows the GoPro is still the best action camera.
But you don’t need to rely on them to make exceptional outdoor adventure videos. Make sure you weigh all the options and choose the best GoPro alternative.