In recent years, action cameras have become a popular tool for capturing all kinds of outdoor activities, from extreme sports to family vacations. These rugged and versatile cameras are built to withstand the elements and take a beating, but even the toughest models are vulnerable to one common problem: scratches on the lens.
A scratched lens can ruin your shots and even render your camera useless, which is why many action camera owners invest in lens protectors. In this article, we will take a look at some of the best action camera lens protectors on the market, and what features to consider when choosing the right one for your camera.
Whether you’re a professional athlete or a casual adventurer, a lens protector is an essential accessory for protecting your investment and capturing your memories in high-quality.
Types of Lens Protectors
There are several types of lens protectors available for action cameras, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here are the four most common types of lens protectors:
Tempered Glass Protectors
These protectors are made of thin, transparent tempered glass that is scratch-resistant and provides excellent optical clarity. They are easy to install and remove, and some models come with additional features like anti-glare or anti-fingerprint coatings. However, they are more expensive than plastic protectors and may shatter upon impact.
Plastic Protectors
Plastic protectors are the most affordable option for protecting your action camera’s lens. They are made of thin, clear plastic and are easy to install and remove. However, they are not as durable as tempered glass protectors and may scratch more easily.
Hybrid Protectors
Hybrid protectors combine the best features of both tempered glass and plastic protectors. They are made of a thin layer of tempered glass with a plastic frame that provides additional shock absorption. They offer excellent protection against scratches and impacts and provide great optical clarity. However, they are more expensive than plastic protectors and may still shatter upon impact.
Lens Filters
Lens filters are glass or plastic attachments that go onto the front of the camera’s lens, and are designed to alter the way light enters the camera. Different types of filters are available, each with its own unique properties and effects.
Some common types of filters include polarizing filters, neutral density filters, and UV filters. The benefits of using lens filters with your action camera include improved color accuracy, reduced glare and reflections, enhanced contrast and saturation, and reduced haze or atmospheric distortion.
Filters can also help protect your camera’s lens from dust, dirt, and moisture. Overall, lens filters are a valuable accessory for any action camera user who wants to take their photography or videography to the next level.
When choosing a lens protector, it is important to consider the level of protection you need, your budget, and any additional features that may be important to you, such as water and dust resistance or anti-glare coatings.
Features to Consider When Choosing A Lens Protector
When choosing a lens protector for your action camera, there are several features to consider to ensure that you select the best option for your needs.
Compatibility with Camera Models
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a lens protector for your action camera is compatibility with your specific camera model. Not all lens protectors are universal, and some may only fit certain camera models or lens sizes.
It is important to ensure that the protector you choose is designed to fit your camera, as a poorly fitting protector can cause damage to your camera’s lens or affect the quality of your photos and videos. Before purchasing a protector, check the product specifications or consult with the manufacturer to ensure that it is compatible with your camera model.
By choosing a protector that is specifically designed for your camera, you can ensure optimal performance and protection for your valuable equipment.
Thickness and Durability
The thickness and durability of a lens protector are crucial factors to consider when choosing a protector for your action camera. A protector that is too thin may not offer adequate protection against scratches, while a protector that is too thick may add unwanted weight or interfere with the camera’s focus or zoom capabilities.
It is important to find a protector that strikes a balance between thickness and durability, providing sufficient protection without impeding the camera’s performance. Additionally, a durable protector can help safeguard your camera’s lens against impacts and drops, which can be particularly important for those who use their action cameras in extreme or high-impact environments.
Look for protectors made from high-quality materials that are designed to withstand wear and tear, and check for product reviews or ratings to ensure that the protector has a reputation for durability and reliability.
Optical Clarity and Transparency
Optical clarity and transparency are essential factors to consider when choosing a lens protector for your action camera. A protector that is cloudy or distorts the image quality can render your camera useless, and may even make it difficult to see what you are filming or photographing.
It is important to select a protector that is made from high-quality materials that offer optical clarity and transparency, so that your photos and videos are not affected by any distortions or discolorations. Many protectors are designed to be as clear and transparent as possible, and some even come with additional features like anti-glare coatings or anti-fingerprint treatments, which can further enhance their performance.
When choosing a lens protector, opt for a product that has been tested and reviewed for its clarity and transparency, so that you can be confident that your photos and videos will be of the highest quality.
Ease of Installation and Removal
Ease of installation and removal is an important factor to consider when choosing a lens protector for your action camera. A protector that is difficult to install or remove can be frustrating and time-consuming, and may even cause damage to your camera’s lens if installed incorrectly.
Look for protectors that are designed to be easy to install and remove, with clear instructions or online tutorials available if needed. Some protectors may use adhesive or suction to attach to the camera’s lens, while others may rely on a snap-on or screw-on design. Consider your own preferences and needs when choosing a protector, and choose a product that is easy and convenient for you to use.
Additionally, if you frequently switch between different protectors or camera accessories, look for protectors that are compatible with other accessories or have a universal design, so that you can easily swap them out as needed.
Water and Dust Resistance
Water and dust resistance can be an important consideration when choosing a lens protector for your action camera, particularly if you frequently use your camera in wet or dirty environments. Some protectors may offer water resistance, which can help prevent damage to your camera’s lens in the event of rain or splashing.
Additionally, protectors with dust resistance can help keep your camera’s lens clean and free of debris, which can be particularly useful for outdoor or adventure photography. Look for protectors that are designed to be waterproof or dustproof, with ratings or certifications that indicate their level of protection.
It’s important to note that not all protectors will offer the same level of resistance, so consider your own needs and the environment in which you plan to use your camera when choosing a protector with water and dust resistance.
Anti-Glare and Anti-Fingerprint Coating
Anti-glare and anti-fingerprint coatings can be useful features to consider when choosing a lens protector for your action camera. Anti-glare coatings can help reduce unwanted reflections and glare in bright or outdoor lighting conditions, which can improve the visibility of your photos and videos.
Similarly, anti-fingerprint coatings can help keep your protector clean and free of smudges or fingerprints, which can be particularly important for those who frequently handle their camera or use it in dirty or dusty environments. Look for protectors that offer these features, and check product reviews or ratings to ensure that the coatings are effective and long-lasting.
Keep in mind that some coatings may affect the clarity or transparency of the protector, so consider your own needs and preferences when choosing a protector with anti-glare and anti-fingerprint coatings.
Best Action Camera Lens Protectors
Orzero Anti-Scratch Lens Protector Compatible for DJI OSMO
The Orzero Full Screen Protector for DJI OSMO Action is a top-quality product that provides excellent protection for your camera’s screen. This screen protector is specially designed to fit the DJI OSMO Action, and offers a full coverage of the screen. The ultra-thin glass material provides an original screen-like experience, which means that you won’t even notice that there’s a protector on your screen.
One of the standout features of this screen protector is its 9H strong-hardness, which helps to prevent keys and other outside objects from scratching the screen. Additionally, the 2.5D Round Edge and 99% HD clarity provide excellent visual quality, and maintain the original touch experience of the screen.
Installation of the screen protector is made easy with the included dust remover, screen wipe, and lint-free dry cloth. This ensures that you get a bubble-free and easy installation process. The Orzero Service and Lifetime Replacement protect your screen from any manufacturing defects or accidental damages.
Overall, the Orzero Full Screen Protector for DJI OSMO Action is an excellent product that provides superior protection and clarity for your camera’s screen. Its easy installation process, durability, and high-quality visual output make it a top choice for anyone looking to protect their screen and enhance their photography or videography.
FiTSTILL Lens Film Foil For DJI OSMO
The FitStill Lens Protector is an excellent product that provides superior protection for your DJI OSMO Action Camera’s screen and lens. This screen protector is specially designed for the DJI OSMO Action Camera, providing maximum scratch protection for your device. Made with high-quality tempered glass, this screen protector is an ideal solution for protecting your camera from dust and scratches.
One of the standout features of this screen protector is its ease of installation. The screen protector attaches smoothly and bubble-free, ensuring a hassle-free installation process. Additionally, there is no residue left behind when the protector is removed, which ensures that your screen remains pristine all day long. It is essential to wipe any dust and impurities from the screen before installation.
The FitStill Lens Protector is only 0.3mm thick, which maintains the original touch experience of your camera’s screen. The highly transparent surface of the protection film for DJI OSMO Action allows a pin-sharp and genuine presentation of contents and colors on the screen.
The package includes 2 x front screen protection film, 2 x back screen protection film, 2 x lens protection film, 2 x screen cleaning paper, 1 x cleaning cloth, and 1 x thanks card. Moreover, the product comes with a lifetime warranty from FitStill and 90 days money-back guarantee, providing you with peace of mind when purchasing this screen protector.
Overall, the FitStill Lens Protector is an excellent product for protecting your DJI OSMO Action Camera’s screen and lens. The product is easy to install, highly transparent, and provides superior scratch protection, making it a top choice for anyone looking to protect their camera’s screen and lens.
Akwox Lens Cap Cover
The Akwox Lens Cap Cover is an exceptional product that provides the greatest protection for your device. This product is designed to offer maximum body coverage and is precisely laser cut for your DJI Osmo Action. It provides 99.99% HD clarity and touchscreen accuracy, ensuring that you can enjoy the highest response and transparency for your device.
The DJI Osmo Action Lens Screen Protector is made of high-quality materials, ensuring an extremely high hardness that resists scratches up to 9H Tempered Glass with long-lasting protection. This product provides the greatest protection for your device against any scratches, impacts, and shocks.
Installation of the DJI Osmo Action Lens Screen Protector is easy and hassle-free. You only need to wipe down your lens, carefully align the space to set up the lens protector to your DJI Osmo Action Camera Lens, and you’re ready to go. The package includes 2 x Lens Cap Cover, 2 x Lens Screen Protector, 2 x Black LCD Screen Protector, and 2 x Front LCD Screen Protector for DJI Osmo Action. Additionally, it comes with 6 x wet and dry Screen Cleaning Paper and 6 x Sticker, ensuring that you have everything you need to install your screen protector.
Overall, the Akwox Lens Cap Cover is an excellent product that offers maximum protection and clarity for your device. The product is easy to install and comes with everything you need to get started. If you’re looking for a reliable, high-quality screen protector that provides excellent protection, this product is definitely worth considering.
ULBTER GoPro Lens Screen Protector & Lens Cap
The ULBTER GoPro Lens Screen Protector & Lens Cap is a must-have accessory for those who want to protect their camera screen. The protector is perfectly designed to fit the GoPro Hero 8 Black Camera, and the 100% bubble-free adhesives ensure an easy and hassle-free installation process. The 9H hardness of the protector ensures maximum protection against high impact drops, scratches, scrapes, and bumps.
The silicone lens cap provides additional protection to the camera lens, preventing dirt, dust, and scratches. The 99.99% HD clarity offers a high-definition clear viewing experience, and the hydrophobic screen coating effectively protects the camera screen against sweat and oil residue from fingerprints.
With only 0.3mm thickness, this protector ensures a high permeable and crystal viewing experience with ultra-low reflection and won’t reduce the sensitivity of the screen. Overall, the LCD Lens Protector is a great investment for protecting your camera and ensuring a clear and high-quality viewing experience.
JOYSOG Silicone Lens Cap for Insta360 X3
The JOYSOG Insta360 X3 lens protection cover is a great accessory for those who want to keep their camera lens safe from scratches, dust, and other contaminants. The soft silicone material is comfortable to handle and won’t scratch the lens during installation or removal.
It fits the lens perfectly and provides full protection in all directions. The cover also prevents fingerprints and oil from sticking to the lens, ensuring clear and sharp footage every time. It is lightweight and easy to store and carry, making it a must-have accessory for outdoor and adventure photographers.
Cleaning is also a breeze, simply handwash with water and let it dry. Overall, the Insta360 X3 lens protection cover is a reliable and convenient accessory that every photographer should consider adding to their kit.
Orzero Anti-Scratch Lens Protector
The Orzero Tempered Glass Lens Protector is a great addition to your DJI OSMO Action 3 Camera accessories. It is specially designed to protect your camera’s screen from scratches and other outside objects with its strong 9H hardness rating. The glass thin material gives you the experience of feeling the original screen while still maintaining 99% HD clarity and the original touch experience.
The 2.5D round edge design not only adds to the aesthetics of your camera but also adds to the overall durability of the screen protector. Installation is made easy with the included dust remover, screen wipe, and lint-free dry cloth. With Orzero’s service and lifetime replacement protection, you can trust that your screen protector is backed by a company that cares about its customers.
Overall, the Orzero Tempered Glass Screen & Lens Protector is a solid investment for anyone looking to protect their DJI OSMO Action 3 Camera screen from scratches and other outside elements. Its durable design and easy installation make it a top choice for action camera enthusiasts.
Debous Waterproof Tempered Glass Lens Protector
The Insta360 ONE RS and ONE R camera accessories are incomplete without the perfect protection for your LCD screen and lens. And that’s where the Insta360 ONE RS and ONE R 6-piece tempered glass protector set comes in. This set includes 3 pieces of LCD tempered glass and 3 pieces of lens tempered glass protector, all designed to fit edge to edge and provide full coverage.
The tempered glass protectors are waterproof, anti-scratch, anti-fingerprint, anti-oil, and anti-dust. This ensures that your camera’s screen and lens remain in pristine condition and are protected from any potential damage that may occur during use.
The Debous LCD protector is self-adhesive and leaves no imprint silicon, ensuring that it does not harm your camera’s LCD screen while providing high transparency for a clear and vivid viewing experience. The adhesive used for installation is fast, easy, and gapless, without affecting the sensitivity of the touch screen.
The protectors have a thickness of only 0.3mm, making them compatible with swivel screens and easy to use. With this Insta360 ONE RS and ONE R 6-piece tempered glass protector set, you can rest easy knowing that your camera is well-protected and ready to capture all your adventures without any worries.
Tiffen 3-Filter ND Kit for GoPro HERO9/10 Black
The Tiffen 3-Filter ND Kit for GoPro HERO9/10 Black is a must-have for any photography or videography enthusiast who wants to capture stunning and accurate images in bright outdoor environments. This kit includes three filters: ND8, ND16, and ND32, which are designed with 4K high-definition optical glass and waterproof and anti-scratch multi-coating. These features ensure that the filters are durable and can withstand harsh outdoor conditions.
The ND filters in this kit reduce the amount of light hitting the camera sensor by 3, 4, and 5 stops, respectively. This means that you can shoot with slower shutter speeds and wider apertures even in bright sunlight, which can lead to overexposed or washed-out images. By using these filters, you can achieve the desired exposure and shutter speed, resulting in clearer and more accurate images and videos.
The Tiffen 3-Filter ND Kit is also incredibly easy to use. You can quickly and easily attach the filter to your camera using the included filter mount, and the filters are designed to fit perfectly on the GoPro HERO9/10 Black. With the filter attached, you can set the proper shutter speed in the camera and prevent washed-out images, making it a great addition to any outdoor shooting kit.
Tips For Preventing Scratches and Damage
Taking care of your action camera lens is essential to ensure that you get the best possible footage from your adventures. Here are some tips to prevent scratches and damage to your action camera lens:
- Use a lens protector: One of the most effective ways to protect your action camera lens from scratches and damage is to use a lens protector. There are many types of protectors available, including tempered glass, plastic, and silicone.
- Be mindful of your surroundings: When using your action camera, be aware of your surroundings and avoid exposing it to potential hazards. This includes keeping it away from sharp objects, abrasive surfaces, and extreme temperatures.
- Clean your lens regularly: Dirt, dust, and debris can cause scratches on your action camera lens over time. To prevent this, it’s important to clean your lens regularly using a soft cloth or lens cleaning solution.
- Store your camera properly: When not in use, store your action camera in a protective case to prevent scratches and damage. Make sure to remove any dirt or debris from the lens before storing it.
- Handle your camera with care: When handling your action camera, be gentle and avoid dropping it or subjecting it to impact. This can cause scratches and damage to the lens and other components of the camera.
By following these tips, you can help prevent scratches and damage to your action camera lens and ensure that you get the best possible footage from your adventures.
FAQs
Do I really need a lens protector for my action camera?
Yes, it is highly recommended to use a lens protector for your action camera as it helps prevent scratches, cracks, and other damages to your camera lens.
How do I clean my action camera lens protector?
You can use a microfiber cloth or lens cleaning solution to clean your action camera lens protector. Make sure to avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that can damage the protector.
How often should I replace my protector?
It is recommended to replace your action camera lens protector every 3-6 months, or whenever you notice significant scratches or damages to the protector.
Can I use any brand lens protector for my action camera?
It is recommended to use a lens protector that is specifically designed for your action camera model to ensure the best fit and protection.
Will a lens protector affect the quality of my photos and videos?
A high-quality lens protector should not significantly affect the quality of your photos and videos. However, it is important to choose a protector that is made of high-quality materials and does not reduce the clarity or brightness of your camera lens.
Are there any downsides to using a lens protector?
The only potential downside to using a lens protector is that it can add a small amount of weight or bulk to your camera. However, the added protection it provides is well worth the trade-off.
Conclusion
In conclusion, protecting your action camera lens is crucial to ensure that you get the best possible footage every time you use it. By investing in a good quality lens protector, you can prevent scratches, dust, and other forms of damage that can affect the clarity of your images and videos.
From tempered glass to silicone lens caps, there are a variety of options available to suit your needs and budget. With proper care and maintenance, your action camera lens can last for years and capture all of your adventures in stunning detail.
So don’t take any chances – protect your lens and enjoy every moment of your outdoor activities with peace of mind.
