Best Budget Action Cameras 2023 | GoPro Alternatives

Looking for a high-quality, affordable action camera to capture your adrenaline-fueled adventures in 2023? Look no further!    With GoPro dominating the market, finding a budget-friendly alternative that can still deliver stunning footage and withstand …

sjcam sj8 air

Looking for a high-quality, affordable action camera to capture your adrenaline-fueled adventures in 2023? Look no further! 

 

With GoPro dominating the market, finding a budget-friendly alternative that can still deliver stunning footage and withstand the elements can be a daunting task. But fear not! In this article, we’ve done the research and testing to bring you the top contenders for the best budget action cameras in 2023.

 

 From native 4K resolution to wifi capability and underwater use, we’ve got you covered. So buckle up and read on to find the perfect camera for your next adventure!

 

How We Tested The Budget Action Cameras

paragliding in puerto rico with a budget action camera

During our week-long trip around Puerto Rico, we tested each budget action camera by putting it through its paces in a range of conditions. We wanted to see how these cameras would perform in real-life scenarios, so we took them with us underwater at the beaches, paragliding over San Juan, and hiking through El Yunque.

 

We shot video and still images, paying close attention to the quality of the footage, the stability of the camera, and the ease of use. We tested the cameras’ battery life, wifi capabilities, and underwater functionality to ensure that they could withstand the elements.

 

Our team of reviewers has years of experience testing action cameras, and we pride ourselves on our thoroughness and objectivity. We understand that our readers are looking for reliable, unbiased reviews that they can trust when making a purchase. That’s why we approached each camera with an open mind, carefully evaluating its features and performance.

 

We believe that our hands-on testing provides valuable insights for our readers, and we’re confident that our reviews can help them make informed decisions when choosing a budget action camera. So you can trust our reviews to be honest, thorough, and based on real-world experience.

 

Is a GoPro Worth It?

durability of new gopro

Yes, for the price and quality, a GoPro can be worth it for some photographers and travelers. However, there are other cheaper alternatives that can deliver similar features and quality, making them a more cost-effective option. 

 

In many cases, these cheaper alternatives are more than sufficient for the average user’s needs, and they can save a significant amount of money compared to purchasing a GoPro. Ultimately, whether a GoPro is worth the investment will depend on each individual’s needs and budget.

 

How To Choose a Budget Action Camera

When it comes to choosing a budget action camera, there are a few key factors to consider to ensure you get the best camera for your needs. Here are some important things to look for:

 

Native 4K vs Non-Native 4K

native 4k vs non-native 4k

Choosing an action camera with native 4K resolution versus non-native 4K can have a significant impact on the quality of the footage you capture. Native 4K cameras capture footage at a resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels, while non-native 4K cameras use interpolation to upscale lower-resolution footage to 4K.

 

Native 4K cameras are able to capture much more detail in the footage, resulting in a sharper and more detailed image. They also have better color reproduction and a wider dynamic range, which allows for more accurate colors and better contrast between dark and light areas in the footage.

 

On the other hand, non-native 4K cameras use interpolation to increase the resolution of the footage, resulting in a lower-quality image that may be less sharp and detailed than native 4K footage. Interpolation can also cause artifacts and distortion in the footage, which can be particularly noticeable in fast-moving scenes.

 

Included Accessories

included accesories

When choosing a budget action camera, it’s important to consider the included accessories that come with the camera. Having the right accessories can make a big difference in how easy and versatile it is to use the camera in different situations.

 

Some common accessories that may be included with a budget action camera include mounting brackets, straps, cases, and various adapters. These accessories can help you attach the camera to your body or equipment, protect it from damage, and use it in different environments.

 

For example, if you plan to use the camera for skiing or snowboarding, a camera with a chest or helmet mount may be ideal. If you’re going to be using the camera in wet conditions, a waterproof case is essential. If you plan to use the camera for vlogging or selfie videos, a camera with a flexible tripod or a selfie stick can be helpful.

 

By considering the included accessories, you can choose a budget action camera that is more versatile and user-friendly, saving you money and making it easier to use the camera in different situations. When comparing different cameras, be sure to check what accessories are included and what accessories are available for purchase separately.

 

Wifi Capability

action camera remote

When choosing a budget action camera, it’s important to consider wifi capabilities. Many modern action cameras come with built-in wifi, which allows you to connect the camera to your smartphone or other devices wirelessly. This can provide a number of benefits, including:

 

  • Remote Control: With wifi capabilities, you can use your smartphone as a remote control for the camera. This allows you to easily adjust settings, start and stop recording, and even preview footage from your phone.
  • File Transfer: With wifi, you can quickly and easily transfer files from the camera to your smartphone or computer. This makes it easier to share your footage with others or edit your videos.
  • Social Sharing: Many action cameras also come with companion apps that allow you to easily share your footage on social media. With wifi, you can quickly upload your videos and photos to your favorite social networks without having to transfer files manually.
  • Firmware Updates: Wifi capabilities also allow you to easily update the camera’s firmware, ensuring that you have access to the latest features and improvements.

 

When comparing different budget action cameras, be sure to check for wifi capabilities and whether the camera comes with a companion app. Also, consider the range of the wifi signal and the speed of data transfer, as slower transfer speeds may result in longer wait times for transferring large files. Overall, wifi capabilities can be a valuable feature that can make it easier and more convenient to use your action camera.

 

Low-Light Quality

low light settings on action camera

When choosing a budget action camera, it’s important to consider the low-light quality of the camera. Low-light performance refers to how well the camera can capture footage in low-light environments, such as indoors or in low-light outdoor settings.

 

Some factors that can affect low-light performance include the size and quality of the camera sensor, the lens aperture, and the ISO sensitivity. Cameras with larger sensors tend to perform better in low-light situations, as they can capture more light and produce less image noise. A larger aperture, represented by a lower f-stop number, can also allow more light into the camera and improve low-light performance. Higher ISO settings can help to brighten the footage, but can also increase image noise and reduce overall image quality.

 

Good low-light performance is particularly important if you plan to use your camera indoors or in low-light outdoor environments, such as during sunrise or sunset. Without good low-light performance, your footage may appear blurry or grainy, making it difficult to see important details.

 

When comparing different budget action cameras, be sure to consider their low-light performance and check sample footage taken in low-light conditions. Look for cameras with larger sensors, lower f-stop numbers, and higher ISO settings for better low-light performance. Overall, good low-light performance can be a valuable feature that can greatly enhance the overall quality of your footage, even in challenging lighting conditions.

 

Underwater Use

insta360 action cam for deep sea fishing

When choosing a budget action camera, it’s important to consider whether the camera is suitable for underwater use. Many action cameras are designed to be waterproof, allowing you to take them snorkeling, scuba diving, or swimming without the need for additional waterproof housing.

 

When considering a camera for underwater use, it’s important to look at the camera’s waterproof rating, which is measured in meters or feet. The higher the rating, the deeper the camera can be taken underwater. It’s also important to consider the camera’s ability to capture clear and sharp images underwater, which can be affected by factors such as the lens quality, image stabilization, and low-light performance.

 

In addition to the camera’s performance underwater, it’s important to consider any additional accessories that may be needed for underwater use. For example, some cameras may require a special underwater housing to provide additional protection and waterproofing.

 

When comparing different budget action cameras for underwater use, look for cameras with a high waterproof rating, good low-light performance, and reliable image stabilization. Also, consider any additional accessories that may be required for underwater use, such as a waterproof housing or additional mounting brackets. By choosing a camera that is suitable for underwater use, you can capture stunning footage and images of marine life and aquatic environments without worrying about damaging your camera.

 

Battery Life

akaso battery

When choosing a budget action camera, battery life is an important consideration. Most action cameras have a built-in battery that can provide anywhere from one to several hours of continuous use, depending on the camera’s specifications and usage. When choosing a camera, it’s important to consider how long you’ll be using the camera and whether the battery life is sufficient for your needs.

 

Battery life can be affected by a number of factors, including the camera’s resolution, frame rate, and usage of additional features like wifi or image stabilization. It’s also important to consider how long it takes to recharge the battery and whether the camera comes with a spare battery or external charger.

 

If you plan to use your camera for extended periods, such as on a day-long hike or during a long bike ride, it may be worthwhile to consider a camera with a longer battery life or one that comes with a spare battery. Additionally, it’s important to remember that cold temperatures can also affect battery life, so be sure to keep the camera warm and fully charged when using it in colder environments.

 

When comparing different budget action cameras, be sure to check the battery life specifications and read reviews to see how the camera performs in real-world scenarios. Consider the camera’s resolution and frame rate, as higher resolutions and frame rates may drain the battery faster. Overall, choosing a camera with sufficient battery life can help ensure that you don’t miss any important moments and can capture all of the action.

 

Camera Modes

When choosing a budget action camera, it’s important to consider the camera modes that are available. Camera modes refer to the various shooting options that are available on the camera, such as time-lapse, slow motion, and burst mode. These modes can add creativity and versatility to your footage, allowing you to capture unique perspectives and interesting effects.

 

Some common camera modes to look for in a budget action camera include:

 

  • Time-lapse: This mode allows you to capture a series of photos over a period of time and then combine them into a single video. This is a great option for capturing sunsets, cityscapes, and other time-lapse footage.
  • Slow motion: This mode allows you to capture footage at a higher frame rate, resulting in slow-motion footage when played back at regular speed. This can be a great option for capturing fast-moving action, such as skiing or snowboarding.
  • Burst mode: This mode allows you to capture a series of photos in rapid succession, which can be useful for capturing action shots or fast-moving subjects.
  • Night mode: This mode is designed to improve the camera’s low-light performance, allowing you to capture clear and sharp images in low-light conditions.

 

When comparing different budget action cameras, be sure to check the camera modes that are available and consider which modes are important to you. Look for cameras with a variety of modes that can add creativity and versatility to your footage. Overall, having a range of camera modes can help you capture more interesting and engaging footage, and make the most of your budget action camera.

 

GoPro vs Cheap Alternatives

 

Akaso Brave 4 Pro Akaso EK7000 Pro SJCam SJ8 Air Wolfang GA300 Apeman TRAWO
Display Front and Back Back Back Back Back
Max Resolution 4K 30fps 4K 30fps 4K 30fps 4K 60fps 4K 50fps
Stabilization Stabilization 2.0 Digital Stabilization Yes Yes Yes
Voice Control Yes No No No Yes
Waterproof 131ft 98ft 98ft 131ft 98ft
Battery Life 90 minutes 90 minutes 130 minutes 80 minutes 90 minutes
Price $109.99 $87.99 $119.00 $109.99 $89.99

 

Top Budget Action Cameras in 2023

 

Akaso Brave 4 Pro

Akaso Brave 4 Pro

The Akaso Brave 4 Pro is a budget action camera that delivers impressive performance and a range of features for its price. We tested this camera during our week-long trip around Puerto Rico, specifically during our paragliding adventure over San Juan.

 

Pros:

 

  • Native 4K Resolution: The Akaso Brave 4 Pro can shoot at a native 4K resolution, providing high-quality footage with excellent detail and clarity.
  • Great Value: For the price, the Brave 4 Pro is an excellent value. It offers many of the same features as more expensive cameras, such as wifi connectivity and waterproofing, but at a fraction of the cost.
  • Good Low-Light Performance: The camera performed well in low-light conditions, producing clear and sharp footage even in darker environments.
  • Good Image Stabilization: The camera’s built-in image stabilization helped to reduce shakiness and produce smooth footage, even during our paragliding adventure.

Cons:

 

  • Limited Accessories: The camera comes with a limited set of accessories, and some users may need to purchase additional mounts or cases separately to use the camera in different situations.
  • Short Battery Life: The battery life is relatively short, lasting only a few hours with continuous use. This may not be sufficient for longer adventures, such as all-day hikes or extended bike rides.

 

Tested Activity: Paragliding over San Juan.

 

During our paragliding adventure over San Juan, the Akaso Brave 4 Pro performed well, delivering smooth and stable footage despite the fast-moving and shaky conditions. The camera’s image stabilization helped to reduce shakiness, and the camera’s native 4K resolution captured excellent detail and clarity in the footage. 

 

Overall, the Akaso Brave 4 Pro is a great option for those looking to capture action-packed adventures, such as paragliding, without spending a lot of money.

 

Akaso EK7000 Pro

Akaso EK7000 Pro

The Akaso EK7000 Pro is a budget action camera that provides excellent value for its price. We tested this camera during our week-long trip to Puerto Rico, specifically during our hiking adventure through El Yunque.

 

Pros:

 

  • Affordable: The EK7000 Pro is an excellent value for its price, providing many of the features of more expensive cameras without breaking the bank.
  • Good Low-Light Performance: The camera performed well in low-light conditions, producing clear and sharp footage even in darker environments.
  • Good Battery Life: The battery life is relatively long, lasting up to 90 minutes of continuous recording, which is good for a budget camera.
  • Waterproof: The camera is waterproof up to 40 meters (131 feet) with the included case, making it suitable for underwater adventures.

Cons:

 

  • Limited Accessories: The camera comes with a limited set of accessories, and some users may need to purchase additional mounts or cases separately to use the camera in different situations.
  • No Image Stabilization: The camera does not have built-in image stabilization, which may result in shakier footage, particularly during fast-paced activities like hiking.
  • Non-Native 4K Resolution: The camera can shoot at up to 4K resolution, but this is achieved through interpolation rather than native 4K resolution, which may result in lower-quality footage.

 

Tested Activity: Hiking through El Yunque.

 

During our hiking adventure through El Yunque, the Akaso EK7000 Pro performed well, capturing clear and sharp footage despite the challenging lighting conditions. The camera’s waterproof case also protected the camera from the occasional rain shower, and the camera’s long battery life meant we didn’t have to worry about running out of power during our hike. 

 

However, the lack of built-in image stabilization did result in some shakier footage, particularly during fast-paced sections of the hike. Overall, the Akaso EK7000 Pro is a great option for those looking for an affordable action camera for hiking and other outdoor activities.

 

SJCam SJ8 Air

sjcam sj8 air

The SJCam SJ8 Air is a budget action camera that provides solid performance and a range of features for its price. We tested this camera during our week-long trip to Puerto Rico, specifically during our underwater adventure at the beaches.

 

Pros:

 

  • Native 4K Resolution: The SJ8 Air can shoot at a native 4K resolution, providing high-quality footage with excellent detail and clarity.
  • Good Battery Life: The battery life is relatively long, lasting up to 90 minutes of continuous recording, which is good for a budget camera.
  • Waterproof: The camera is waterproof up to 30 meters (98 feet) with the included case, making it suitable for underwater adventures.
  • Good Low-Light Performance: The camera performed well in low-light conditions, producing clear and sharp footage even in darker environments.
  • Good Image Stabilization: The camera’s built-in image stabilization helped to reduce shakiness and produce smooth footage, even during our underwater adventure.

Cons:

 

  • Limited Accessories: The camera comes with a limited set of accessories, and some users may need to purchase additional mounts or cases separately to use the camera in different situations.
  • Slow Wi-Fi Transfer Speeds: The camera’s wifi transfer speeds can be slow, which can be frustrating when trying to transfer large files to a smartphone or computer.
  • Non-Responsive Touch Screen: The camera’s touch screen can be unresponsive at times, which can be frustrating when trying to adjust settings or preview footage.

 

Tested Activity: Underwater adventure at the beaches.

 

During our underwater adventure at the beaches, the SJCam SJ8 Air performed well, delivering clear and smooth footage with excellent detail and clarity. The camera’s image stabilization helped to reduce shakiness and produce smooth footage, even in the challenging underwater environment. The camera’s waterproof case also provided reliable protection for the camera during our underwater adventures. Overall, the SJCam SJ8 Air is a great option for those looking for an affordable action camera for underwater adventures and other outdoor activities.

 

Wolfang GA300

Wolfang GA300

The Wolfang GA300 is a budget action camera that offers a range of features for its price. We tested this camera during our week-long trip to Puerto Rico, specifically during our snorkeling adventure at the beaches.

 

Pros:

 

  • Good Image Stabilization: The camera’s built-in image stabilization helped to reduce shakiness and produce smooth footage, even during our snorkeling adventure.
  • Affordable: The GA300 is an excellent value for its price, providing many of the features of more expensive cameras without breaking the bank.
  • Good Battery Life: The battery life is relatively long, lasting up to 90 minutes of continuous recording, which is good for a budget camera.
  • Waterproof: The camera is waterproof up to 30 meters (98 feet) with the included case, making it suitable for underwater adventures.
  • Included Accessories: The camera comes with a range of accessories, including a waterproof case and multiple mounting options, making it easier to use in different situations.

Cons:

 

  • Non-Native 4K Resolution: The camera can shoot at up to 4K resolution, but this is achieved through interpolation rather than native 4K resolution, which may result in lower-quality footage.
  • Limited Low-Light Performance: The camera’s low-light performance is limited, with footage becoming grainy and less detailed in darker environments.
  • Slow Wi-Fi Transfer Speeds: The camera’s wifi transfer speeds can be slow, which can be frustrating when trying to transfer large files to a smartphone or computer.

 

Tested Activity: Snorkeling adventure at the beaches.

 

During our snorkeling adventure at the beaches, the Wolfang GA300 performed well, delivering clear and stable footage with good detail and color, even in the challenging underwater environment. The camera’s image stabilization helped to reduce shakiness and produce smooth footage, even while swimming. The camera’s included waterproof case and multiple mounting options made it easy to use in different situations. Overall, the Wolfang GA300 is a great option for those looking for an affordable action camera for underwater adventures and other outdoor activities.

 

Apeman TRAWO

Apeman TRAWO

The Apeman TRAWO is a budget action camera that provides solid performance and features for its price. We tested this camera during our week-long trip to Puerto Rico, specifically during our hiking adventure through El Yunque.

 

Pros:

 

  • Native 4K Resolution: The TRAWO can shoot at a native 4K resolution, providing high-quality footage with excellent detail and clarity.
  • Good Battery Life: The battery life is relatively long, lasting up to 90 minutes of continuous recording, which is good for a budget camera.
  • Good Image Stabilization: The camera’s built-in image stabilization helped to reduce shakiness and produce smooth footage, even during our hiking adventure through El Yunque.
  • Included Accessories: The camera comes with a range of accessories, including a waterproof case and multiple mounting options, making it easier to use in different situations.
  • Good Low-Light Performance: The camera performed well in low-light conditions, producing clear and sharp footage even in darker environments.

Cons:

 

  • Limited Wi-Fi Connectivity: The camera’s wifi connectivity can be limited, which can be frustrating when trying to transfer files to a smartphone or computer.
  • Limited Frame Rates: The camera’s frame rates are limited compared to more expensive action cameras, which may limit the creative options available to users.
  • Non-Responsive Touch Screen: The camera’s touch screen can be unresponsive at times, which can be frustrating when trying to adjust settings or preview footage.

 

Tested Activity: Hiking adventure through El Yunque.

 

During our hiking adventure through El Yunque, the Apeman TRAWO performed well, capturing clear and stable footage with excellent detail and color. The camera’s built-in image stabilization helped to reduce shakiness and produce smooth footage, even during the fast-paced sections of the hike. The camera’s included accessories, such as the waterproof case and multiple mounting options, made it easy to use in different situations. Overall, the Apeman TRAWO is a great option for those looking for an affordable action camera for hiking and other outdoor activities.

 

FAQs

 

Which camera is best for action?

When it comes to action cameras, the GoPro is still the industry leader, and for good reason. Its cameras provide excellent image and video quality, reliable performance, and a range of features that make it easy to capture action-packed footage. However, this quality and performance come at a higher price point than most budget action cameras.

 

If you’re willing to spend more money for higher quality footage, then the GoPro is a great option. But if you’re on a budget, there are many affordable alternatives, such as the Akaso Brave 4 Pro, Akaso EK7000 Pro, SJCam SJ8 Air, Wolfang GA300, and Apeman TRAWO, which all offer impressive performance and features for their price.

 

Is there a cheaper GoPro?

Yes, there are cheaper GoPro options available, particularly if you don’t need the latest and greatest features. Some of the older GoPro models, such as the HERO7 and HERO8, are still excellent options that hold up well for everyday photographers.

 

The GoPro HERO7, for example, provides reliable performance and excellent video and image quality, despite being a few years old. It can shoot at up to 4K resolution, has built-in image stabilization, and is waterproof up to 33 feet without the need for a case. Additionally, it offers a range of camera modes and features, such as time-lapse and slow-motion, that make it easy to capture creative footage.

 

What is the disadvantage of action camera?

While action cameras have many advantages for capturing outdoor and action-packed activities, there are also some disadvantages to consider.

 

One of the biggest disadvantages of action cameras is their smaller sensor size, which can result in lower image quality compared to professional DSLR cameras. This is particularly noticeable in low-light conditions or when shooting at higher ISOs, where image noise can become more pronounced. Additionally, action cameras often have limited lens options, which can limit their versatility in different shooting situations.

 

Another disadvantage of action cameras is their limited control options, particularly when it comes to manual settings such as aperture, shutter speed, and ISO. While some action cameras offer manual controls, they are often limited compared to professional DSLR cameras, which provide more extensive control over the image.

 

Finally, action cameras often have limited battery life, which can be a disadvantage for longer shoots or trips where charging options may be limited. Additionally, the smaller form factor of action cameras can make them harder to hold and operate comfortably for extended periods, particularly for those with larger hands.

 

Compared to professional DSLR cameras, action cameras have many advantages in terms of portability, ruggedness, and ease of use, particularly for outdoor and action-packed activities. However, professional DSLR cameras typically provide higher image quality, more extensive control options, and a wider range of lens options, making them better suited for professional photography or more demanding shooting situations.

 

Is there anything as good as GoPro?

Yes, there are other action camera brands that are just as good as GoPro, including DJI and Insta360.

 

DJI has recently entered the action camera market with the DJI Osmo Action, which offers excellent performance and image quality. The camera can shoot at up to 4K resolution, has built-in image stabilization, and is waterproof up to 36 feet without the need for a case. Additionally, it offers a range of camera modes and features, such as HDR video and slow motion, that make it easy to capture creative footage.

 

Another great alternative to GoPro is the Insta360 ONE R. This camera is unique in that it is modular and can be configured in a variety of ways, including as an action camera, 360 camera, or even a camera for vlogging. It can shoot at up to 5.3K resolution and has built-in image stabilization. Additionally, it offers a range of camera modes and features, such as slow motion and timelapse, that make it versatile and easy to use.

 

Bottom Line: Which Budget Action Camera is Best?

best budget action camera

After testing multiple budget action cameras during our trip to Puerto Rico, we have determined that the Akaso Brave 4 Pro is the best budget option for those looking for a high-quality camera at an affordable price.

 

The Akaso Brave 4 Pro offers a range of features that make it an excellent value for its price, including native 4K resolution, built-in image stabilization, and a range of camera modes and features, such as time-lapse and slow motion. Additionally, it comes with a range of accessories, such as a waterproof case and multiple mounting options, making it easier to use in different situations.

 

Furthermore, the Akaso Brave 4 Pro performed well during our tests, delivering clear and stable footage with good detail and color in various environments. It was particularly impressive during our paragliding adventure over San Juan, where its image stabilization helped to produce smooth footage, despite the fast-paced and shaky environment.

 

While there are other great budget action cameras available, such as the Akaso EK7000 Pro, SJCam SJ8 Air, Wolfang GA300, and Apeman TRAWO, the Akaso Brave 4 Pro stands out as the best option for its performance, features, and value.

 

Overall, if you’re looking for a budget action camera that provides excellent quality footage, reliable performance, and a range of features at an affordable price, then the Akaso Brave 4 Pro is the best option to consider.