The best action cameras: review, rating, reviews, how and which one to choose

How to choose an action camera for an amateur

When it comes to action cameras, GoPro is the dominant brand, and for good reason: the company has been making the best action cameras for several years now. So, if you are thinking about buying an action camera, you should first take a look at GoPro and choose the model that best suits your budget and needs.

After this, you need to select the characteristics you need.

• Most action cameras will record 4K video, but only newer models will support more than 30 fps.
• Another feature that is becoming standard on good amateur action cameras is optical or electronic image stabilization (the former is preferred). It's a must if you plan to use your action camera while on the move, such as while driving or mountain biking.
• Action camera design has advanced to the point where most are water resistant to around 10 meters. However, if you want to dive deeper with your camera, you will need an aquabox. Some models have it as standard.

Having studied the recommendations of experts from specialized publications on which action camera to choose in 2020, we have compiled a selection of the 10 best models.

The concept of an action camera and its useful functions

An action camera is a popular portable device based on digital technology. Having this technology in your pocket, you will never miss the most important moments that you would like to capture. In appearance, the device is a mini-camera capable of operating in aggressive environments (precipitation, wind, under water, etc.). The distinctive feature of an action camera is its ability to capture objects in motion without distortion and, as a result, create impressive photographs.

Most modern devices support 4K shooting format.

The miniature device is convenient to carry in a purse, jacket pocket or special case. The device has a wide range of applications, namely:

• in extreme sports;
• in hikes and tourism projects;
• suitable for creating autobiographical reports;
• will help you maintain your own video blog or YouTube channel;
• Plays a role as a dash cam on cars and other vehicles.

As our experts noted, it is better not to use such devices at home, because they practically do not have the required number of settings that are used for amateur family photography.

Models with weak batteries are not suitable for shooting in mountainous areas

HELPFUL INFORMATION!

Did you know that several years ago television producers tried to shoot films with action cameras, however, due to the insufficient quality of video recordings and pictures that were necessary for editing, the filmmakers abandoned this idea.

EKEN H9R

• UHD 4K video recording
• matrix 4 MP
• microSD memory cards
• WiFi
• up to 1.1 hours of battery life
• weight 64 g

The top spot for action cameras is an inexpensive model that can record your adventures at 25 frames per second at 4K resolution.

EKEN H9R has a remote control (remote included) and the ability to record to a memory card. And the small size allows you to put the device in your pocket or small purse.

The device is equipped with a small two-inch display, which makes shooting very convenient. And the shooting quality itself, according to user reviews, is very good (at 1080p), the picture turns out clear and juicy, even if you are on the move.

However, this model does not have a stabilizer, so you shouldn’t expect smooth video when moving on an uneven surface.

Pros : rich equipment (aquabox, protective glass for the screen, cable for PC, many fasteners), good assembly.

Cons : in the box the sound is very muffled, there is no microphone jack, there is no pause, there is no lens cap, there is no way to fix the exposure and white balance.

X-TRY XTG371

• UHD 4K video recording
• matrix 4 MP (1/3″)
• 64 GB built-in flash memory
• electronic stabilizer
• up to 0.5 hours of battery life
• weight 55 g

Do you want to feel like James Bond testing a new device from the Q department? Then you just need this action camera, which is built into the frame of your glasses.

It has an Omni Vision sensor with digital stabilization (in FHD and HD modes) and, although it does not support recording to a memory card, it has 64 GB of internal memory.

The device can record 4K video at 24 fps, at a resolution of 1920×1080 at 60 fps and at a resolution of 1280×720 at 120 fps. The filmed video can be sent to a PC or laptop by connecting via Micro USB 2.0.

In addition, the glasses can be used as a webcam. To do this, you need to connect them to your computer and select them in the desired program as a video capture device.

Pros : light weight, polarized lenses with UV400 protection class, you can record video while charging from an external battery.

Cons : high price, no water protection, short operating time without recharging.

DJI Osmo Action

• UHD 4K video recording
• matrix 12 MP (1/2.3″)
• microSD memory cards
• Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
• electronic stabilizer
• up to 2.3 hours of battery life
• weight 124 g

If you're trying to use an action camera to film yourself, you'll have to guess where you are in the frame because you can't look at the screen on the back and at yourself at the same time. The DJI Osmo Action solves this dilemma because it has two screens on the front and back, making it much easier to frame your photos and videos.

This rugged camera also has very good electronic image stabilization and can shoot 4K HDR video at 60fps. Unfortunately, you can't use HDR and image stabilization at the same time.

This model supports manual and semi-automatic exposure settings, and, according to the manufacturer, has a waterproof housing that can withstand immersion to a depth of 11 meters.

Pros : high-quality noise reduction, good battery life, convenient controls, excellent image stabilization, does not overheat during long-term shooting, has a programmable button.

Cons : automatic white balance is not always accurate; in poor lighting the picture is noisy.

Popular Xiaomi action cameras from a Chinese manufacturer with reviews and prices

Miniature cameras from a Chinese manufacturer are distinguished by good shooting quality and sufficient durability. We bring to your attention three models that are highly appreciated by users.

Xiaomi MiJia 4K action camera - a competitive model

Flagship models are famous for their popularity among users.
Inexpensive model with Ultra HD and 4K image formats, equipped with widescreen video. The presence of an LCD screen makes operation of the device more simplified.

Review of the Xiaomi MiJia 4K model

More details on Yandex.Market: https://market.yandex.ru/product/1732241231/reviews?track=tabs

Xiaomi MiJia 4K

Xiaomi Yi 2K Action camera - a device with a contrasting design

Some models are capable of supporting from 1 to several types of memory cards.
Since its release, this model has become popular because of its worthy qualities, such as lightness, compactness and a thoughtful interface. Today, even though the camera has a lot of competitors, it still remains among the leaders.

Xiaomi Yi 2K Action camera

A device with good battery properties can hold a charge for two hours of continuous shooting with Wi-Fi and other functions turned on.

Xiaomi MiJia 360 Panoramic Camera - suitable for creating panoramas

An excellent model for hunting and fishing and running your own blog
. Despite its compact body, the action camera has excellent properties that are conducive to high-quality shooting.

Review of the Xiaomi MiJia 360 Panoramic Camera model

More details on Yandex.Market: https://market.yandex.ru/product/1725546065/reviews?track=tabs

Xiaomi MiJia 360 Panoramic Camera

Drift Ghost 4K

• UHD 4K video recording
• microSD memory cards
• WiFi
• 8 GB built-in flash memory
• stabilizer
• up to 3.5 hours of battery life
• weight 120 g

This is the best action camera of 2020 with stabilizer for cyclists and bikers. It offers a variety of resolution and frame rate options to ensure you get the best video for any situation.

For calm and leisurely shooting, we recommend choosing the maximum resolution of 4K Ultra HD, set to 30 frames per second. Just keep in mind that digital image stabilization only works at resolutions no higher than 1080p.

The camera's low-profile design and rugged construction make the Ghost 4K an ideal choice for adventures on two wheels (handlebar or helmet mounted). And if you purchase an additional waterproof box from Drift, you can explore underwater depths of up to 40 meters.

Some action cameras don't handle audio well, but not the Ghost 4K. The camera has two microphones that improve sound quality and help combat annoying wind noise.

Pros : impressive sound recording quality, long battery life, remote control possible.

Cons : the controls are not very convenient, there is no stabilization above 1080p.

Rating of the best action cameras TOP 15 models

Let's start with budget action cameras that have won the trust of buyers.

Inexpensive and good action cameras under 5,000 rubles

15th place. Mobius Full HD with wide angle lens

The model is ideal for cyclists and those who like to take pictures of flying toys with R/C. Since it has a streamlined shape, designed precisely for less air resistance while moving. The camera is equipped with a cyclic shooting mode, which allows you to use it as a video recorder in a car.

The shooting quality is not bad, it fully justifies its price. It has a minimal size and is generally designed in a minimalist style. On the front surface you can find only three intuitive buttons. So there will be no problems with control; the LEDs will tell you when the battery is low, when video is being recorded, and when the camera is turned on/off.

SHOW SPECIFICATIONS

• Viewing Angle: 180 degrees
• Loop video mode: adjustable 5, 10 and 15 minutes
• Auto-on when power is applied
• Display: none
• Battery: Video recording up to 80 minutes
• Maximum micro SD support: 32 GB
• Shooting mode: Full HD - 30 fps, HD - 30/60 fps
• Interface: USB cable
• Wireless connections: none
• Weight: 37 g
• Size (approx): Height: 2.5 cm, Length: 5 cm, Width: 2.5 cm

Cons: lack of a display, which would make control much easier, and you won’t be able to see the photos you’ve taken right away.
Includes: camera, 1 pc mount, USB cable, mini screwdriver, instructions.

Video shooting Mobius action-camera:

View the Mobius Maxi 2.7K camera in the store

14th place. Eken H9R Ultra

This camera is ideal for a beginner. Firstly, it has a rich set of equipment, and secondly, its cost does not exceed $60 . Reviews about it are mostly positive. Of course, for this price you won’t get amazing quality photos and videos, but you shouldn’t count on that in the first place. But taking a closer look and deciding whether it’s worth buying an expensive gadget in the future is the best thing.

You can control the camera using a remote control that fits on your wrist. This is a huge advantage for outdoor enthusiasts, because the camera can be controlled remotely, no matter where it is located at a distance of up to 20 meters.

Another feature of the Eken h9r is the ability to shoot on water, as it comes with a special protective box. It is not recommended to immerse the camera in water more than 2 meters. Plus, there is a Russian-language interface, so you don’t have to spend a long time understanding the camera settings.

SHOW SPECIFICATIONS

• Processor: Sunplus 6350
• Matrix: OV4689 12 MP
• Viewing Angle: 170 degrees
• Display: yes LCD 2 inches 320*240 px
• Battery: 1050MAh
• Maximum micro SD support: 32 GB
• Shooting mode: 4K - 25 fps, 2.7K - 30 fps, Full HD - 60 fps, HD - 120 fps
• Interface: micro USB, HDMI
• Wireless connections: Wi-Fi
• Weight: 64 g
• Size (approx): Height: 4 cm, Length: 6 cm, Width: 2.5 cm

Included: camera, 7 different mounts for all occasions, protective aquabox, charger, USB cable for connecting to a PC, protective glass for the screen, remote control and straps for it, instructions.
Video filming from the Eken H9r action camera:

Eken h9r in the store

13th place. XIAOMI YI version 4K

Budget action camera with image stabilization. A completely affordable price and at the same time a serious hardware assembly make this model popular and well-selling. Very often, Xiaomi YI 4K is compared with Go Pro HERO4. The models are similar in many ways and in some functions the Go Pro clearly lags behind the Chinese Xiaomi.

Comparison of Xiaomi Yi with GoPro Hero 4

The model is equipped with a 3-axis gyroscope, which provides good stabilization when shooting. The picture does not jump, even if the video was recorded during active movement. The gadget has two stereo microphones that record loud and clear sound.

SHOW SPECIFICATIONS

• Processor: Ambarella A9SE95
• Matrix: Sony IMX377 12MP 1/2.3
• Viewing Angle: 155 degrees, 7-element lens
• Stabilization: 3-axis gyroscope
• Display: yes 2.19 inch LCD
• Battery: 1400MAh
• Maximum micro SD support: up to 64 GB
• Shooting mode: 4K - 30 fps, 2.7K - 60 fps, 2.5K - 30 fps, Full HD - 30/60/120 fps, HD - 240 fps
• Interface: USB
• Wireless connections: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
• Synchronization with mobile application
• Weight: 88 g
• Size (approx): Height: 4.2cm, Length: 6.6cm, Width: 3.1cm (with lens)

Contents: camera, USB cable, instructions.
Of the minuses:

• not rich equipment
• notches or rubberized inserts that would prevent the gadget from slipping out of your hands are not taken into account
• When recording in 4K there is no way to enable stabilization
• no Russian language interface

Advice: if camera mounts are important to you, then you should get one. Without it, unfortunately, the model can only be mounted on a regular tripod or selfie stick. By the way, with protection it becomes possible to shoot underwater up to 40 meters deep.

Video shooting in 4K mode from the Xiaomi YI 4K action camera. It is worth considering that YouTube compresses video files and often blurs the image.

Chinese stores began to package this camera model with additional accessories and even a memory card included!

View XIAOMI YI 4K in the store

Xiaomi Mijia Seabird 4K

• UHD 4K video recording
• matrix 12 MP
• microSD memory cards
• WiFi
• up to 1 hour battery life
• weight 60 g

The best action camera of 2020 from Xiaomi can offer shooting in 4K resolution with 30 fps or 60 fps at a resolution of 1920x1080. It is possible even faster - with a frequency of 120 frames/s, but then the resolution will have to be lowered to 1280x720.

Video recording is smooth, although according to users, it is not as impressive as GoPro at a similar resolution and frame rate.

The screen on this action camera is clear and easy to read, making it easy to view and frame in sunlight. However, it is not waterproof and requires a waterproof case before you can submerge it in water.

Pros : compact, easy to set up and manage.

Cons : crude Android application, no optical stabilization, no HDMI output.

Lemon Tree SQ11

• Full HD 1080p video recording
• microSD memory cards
• up to 1 hour battery life
• weight 18 g

If you need the cheapest action camera, and at the same time with good shooting quality, pay attention to this model.

With its miniature size and low cost, the Lemon Tree SQ11 shoots in Full HD resolution at 30 fps, and has a slot for a micro SD memory card.

Users praise the good sound quality and build quality of the device. There's no talk of water resistance or image stabilization, but at this price that's to be expected.

Pros : compact, well made, removes well, secure mount.

Cons : short battery life.

Insta360 One R

• 5.7K video recording
• microSD memory cards
• Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
• electronic stabilizer
• up to 1.1 hours of battery life
• weight 131 g

Shenzhen Arashi Vision Company Ltd, which makes Insta360 cameras, has a long history of making panoramic cameras, but the Insta360 One R is its first offering in the action camera market.

The main feature of the One R is a completely modular system in which the camera is presented in the form of four separate modules:

1. processor and touch screen,
2. battery,
3. wide angle lens,
4. dual lens for 360 degree shooting.

To start shooting, decide whether you want to record regular or 360-degree content, select the appropriate lens, and then connect the modules together. The system works very well, allowing you to add additional parts and update or replace them on the fly if necessary.

360-degree video quality is excellent, and the Insta360 One R can also record regular 4K video, albeit in a 4:3 aspect ratio at 30fps. If you're looking for the most versatile action camera available in 2020, the Insta360 One R is a great choice.

Pros : there is voice control, water resistance according to the IPX8 standard, however, to ensure this, it is necessary to attach a special platform to the structure.

Cons : price; if the battery runs out during shooting, you will have to disassemble the structure; when moving quickly and in poor lighting conditions, the video becomes blurry.

Action cameras for shooting in 3D

We've dealt with the standard set, now let's talk about the unusual 360-degree panoramic shooting function. The availability of such cameras is also varied. Let's try to highlight the best of the best. TOP 3 budget cameras with two lenses.

12th place. Insta 360 Nano - action camera for bloggers

This is the most budget camera model of this brand. It was made specifically for owners of iPhone (6 and above) and iPad. The device connects to a smartphone or tablet via a Lightning connector. The camera takes a 360-degree panoramic image: top, bottom, front, back, left and right.

The camera has the ability to shoot streams (live broadcasts) on YouTube or Facebook. And if you don’t want to carry it around with your smartphone, go ahead. Just take it off and record video for your pleasure, just like with a regular action camera. For this case, the device is equipped with a slot for a memory card.

In short, the gadget is ideal for lovers of Apple and social networks. Photos and videos taken can be immediately uploaded to the network via a smartphone. More details about the camera can be found on the store page

Cool review of the Insta360 Nano camera:

11th place. Samsung Gear 360 (2017)

This camera is not a completely successful model from the famous electronics brand. But still, it will be included in this review, since it also has some advantages over previous models.

Firstly, this gadget features a handle for more convenient shooting. Secondly, the device syncs perfectly with both Apple and Android. And thirdly, the picture quality and noise reduction when recording video will undoubtedly please the owners of this panoramic camera.

SHOW SPECIFICATIONS

• Matrix: CMOX, 15 MP
• Viewing Angle: 190 degrees
• Stabilization: no
• Display: yes
• Widescreen photo mode: yes
• Battery: non-removable 1160 MAh
• Maximum micro SD support: up to 256 GB
• Shooting mode: 4K 24fps
• Interface: USB Type C
• Wireless connections: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
• Synchronization with mobile application: yes
• Weight: 130 g
• Size (approx): Height: 10.1 cm, Length: 4.6 cm, Width: 4.5 cm

Among the disadvantages, it can be noted that the product turned out to be not very convenient for users in home use.
Many people rejected the unusual shape of the camera, which was supposed to make filming easier, not more difficult. In general, like the first Samsung Gear 360 model, this one also failed to meet the expectations of customers. Panoramic shooting 4K 24 frames per second:

Shooting in Full HD 60 fps mode:

Detailed reviews of the Samsung Gear 360 (2017) can be read here.

10th place. Xiaomi Mijia 360 Panoramic Camera

Another Chinese, but this time with a panoramic camera. I’ll say right away that the big advantage of this model is its moisture resistance and resistance to low temperatures. This allows you to use the camera, for example, for winter sports or to shoot even in the rain (not intended for immersion in water!).

The camera body itself is made of durable aluminum alloy, and the front and back parts are made of high-quality plastic. The device is dustproof and can operate from -10 degrees below zero. Panoramic photos from this gadget are simply amazing. Using the mobile application there is synchronization with a smartphone.

The camera's equipment is sufficient: the camera itself, a protective case, micro-USB, a small tripod and instructions.

SHOW SPECIFICATIONS

• Processor: Ambarella A12
• Matrix: Sony IMX206 16 MP
• Viewing Angle: 190 degrees
• Low temperature resistance: -10 to -45 degrees Celsius
• Stabilization: yes
• Protection: IP67
• Display: none
• Battery: non-removable 1600 MAh
• Maximum micro SD support: up to 128 GB
• Shooting mode: 3.5K - 30 FPS, 2K - 30/60 FPS
• Interface: micro-USB
• Wireless connections: Wi-Fi
• Synchronization with mobile application: yes
• Weight: 109 g
• Size (approx): Height: 6.8 cm, Length: 7.8 cm, Width: 2.4 cm

Users say that when stitching videos in a special application for this camera (Mi Sphere Camera), the picture quality is very, VERY lost and leaves much to be desired.
Plus, don’t forget that YouTube also compresses videos a lot. An example of video filming on Xiaomi mijia 360°, the author of the video films Crimean beauties from Mount Ai-Petri:

The review compares the original of this video and the converted version from YouTube (at 8:57):

As you can see, this camera takes a fairly high-quality and bright picture. And the fact that shooting is done in 360 degrees makes this model attractive and well-selling.

Minuses:

• Non-removable battery
• Battery heats up during long periods of use
• Large loss of quality when converting video to social media. networks

You can read reviews about the Xiaomi panoramic camera on the store page

Sony FDR-X3000

• UHD 4K video recording
• matrix 8.2 MP (1/2.5″)
• MS memory cards, microSD
• Wi-Fi, GPS, Bluetooth
• optical stabilizer
• up to 2.35 hours of battery life
• weight 114 g

Another 4K offering in the 2020 action camera rankings, this time from Sony. The Sony FDR-X3000 4K features optical image stabilization and a ZEISS lens to ensure your videos are clear and free from glare.

One of the big advantages of this action camera is its wind noise reduction feature. Therefore, the sound on your videos will be clearly distinguishable. This may be especially important for those looking for an action camera for mountaineering trips.

Pros : very simple menu, aquabox included, convenient form factor, you can connect an external microphone, there is an HDMI output, you can install it on any standard tripod.

Cons : expensive branded accessories, at high temperatures it can overheat, which causes defocus and defects when shooting, there is no display.

GoPro Hero 7 Black

• UHD 4K video recording
• matrix 12 MP (1/2.3″)
• microSD memory cards
• Wi-Fi, GPS, Bluetooth
• electronic stabilizer
• up to 1.5 hours of battery life
• weight 116 g

The first of GoPro's action cameras to be able to record 4K video at 60 frames per second. It is waterproof up to 10 meters in fresh water, has a 2-inch color LCD touch screen and voice control.

While the Hero 7's image stabilization isn't as strong as the Hero 8's, it's still excellent. Photos and videos taken can be sent to a mobile phone using the proprietary GoPro application.

Now that the Hero 8 is on the market, GoPro has dropped the price of the Hero7 Black a bit, and you may be able to find even better deals on the camera at online retailers.

Pros : convenient menu, good sound quality, Time Wrap mode with Hypersmooth stabilization, you can set the maximum ISO value (photo sensitivity) to 100.

Cons : not suitable for night photography; flickering may occur indoors due to artificial lighting.

Which GoPro should you choose this year? Review of new products

5th place. GoPro Hero7 White

The most affordable camera in the new Go Pro 7 line is the Hero 7 White. This model includes all the necessary functions and excellent picture quality. Suitable for those who are not willing to pay too much, but still want a camera from a legendary brand.

The advantages of this model are:

• Immersion in water up to 10 meters deep, without using a protective box
• Voice control, including in Russian
• High-quality videos and colorful photos

Minuses:

• Non-removable built-in battery
• Video recording in Full HD format only
• Synchronization problems with Android (no problems found with iPhone)

Reviews from real customers about the purchased Hero 7 White camera

SHOW SPECIFICATIONS

• Processor: GP1
• Matrix: CMOS 12 MP
• Viewing angle: no information anywhere
• Immersion in water without protection: up to 10 meters
• Voice control: available in several languages, including Russian
• Stabilization: biaxial
• Display: touch, 2 inches
• Sound: 2 built-in microphones, noise reduction
• Battery: non-removable 1100 MAh
• Maximum micro SD support: up to 128 GB
• Shooting mode: Full HD - 30/60 FPS
• Interface: micro-USB, HDMI
• Wireless connections: Wi-Fi, bluetooth
• Synchronization with mobile application: yes
• Weight: 92 g
• Size (approx): Height: 5cm, Length: 6.2cm, Width: 2.8cm

Inexpensive action camera with image stabilization

There are three cameras released in the Hero 7 line. Like Sjcam, this family has the most expensive professional camera - Black, the golden mean - Silver and the youngest for beginners - White. By the way, many wondered: why the name “white” if the gadget itself is gray? Manufacturers responded:

...white, because it is the lightest model in the line

4th place. GoPro 7 Silver

This model is equipped with remote control and the ability to shoot underwater. You will also be pleased with the video quality recorded in Ultra HD 4K shooting mode.

Pros:

• Capacious battery
• Shooting underwater
• Smartphone control
• High stabilization

Minuses:

• Built-in battery
• Few fasteners included
• Almost no different from White, but costs more

See real customer reviews about this model

SHOW SPECIFICATIONS

• Processor: GP1
• Matrix: CMOS 10 MP
• Viewing angle: no information anywhere
• Immersion in water without protection: up to 10 meters
• Voice control: available in several languages, including Russian
• Stabilization: digital
• Display: touch, 2 inches
• Sound: 2 built-in microphones, noise reduction
• Battery: non-removable 1220 MAh
• Maximum micro SD support: up to 128 GB
• Shooting mode: 4K Ultra HD - 30 FPS, Full HD - 60 FPS
• Interface: micro-USB, HDMI
• Wireless connections: Wi-Fi, bluetooth
• Synchronization with mobile application: yes
• Weight: 74 g
• Size (approx): Height: 4.4 cm, Length: 6.2 cm, Width: 3.2 cm

3rd place. GoPro Hero 7 Black

The camera is designed for professional-level filming. It's not cheap, but you can buy it at a discount. Considering that Hero 8 will be released soon, we can hope for a quick drop in price.

The model is immediately distinguished from its peers in the line by its small front display. Buyers especially note the high picture quality, good built-in stabilization and excellent recording sound.

Pros:

• Powerful processor and sensor
• Front display for convenience
• Removable battery
• You can connect an external microphone

Minuses:

• Poor equipment
• Sometimes freezes
• Poor quality of night photography (but this is a minus of almost all cameras)

More than 30 reviews of this model of the seventh line of GoPro

SHOW SPECIFICATIONS

• Processor: GP1
• Matrix: CMOS 12 MP
• Viewing angle: no information anywhere
• Immersion in water without protection: up to 10 meters
• Voice control: available in several languages, including Russian
• Stabilization: three-axis
• Display: touch, 2 inches + front
• Sound: 2 built-in microphones, one external, noise reduction
• Battery: removable 1220 MAh
• Maximum micro SD support: up to 256 GB
• Shooting mode: 4K Ultra HD - 30 FPS, Full HD - 60 FPS
• Interface: micro HDMI, USB-C, 3.5 mm audio
• Wireless connections: Wi-Fi, bluetooth
• Synchronization with mobile application: yes
• Weight: 116 g
• Size (approx): Height: 4.5 cm, Length: 6.2 cm, Width: 3.3 cm

Action camera for professional video shooting - review:

Video reviews of action cameras from the GoPro Hero 7 line:

GoPro HERO8 Black Edition

• UHD 4K video recording
• matrix 12 MP
• microSD memory cards
• Wi-Fi, GPS, Bluetooth
• electronic stabilizer
• up to 0.5 hours of battery life
• weight 103 g

Surprise, surprise: GoPro's newest device, the Hero 8 Black, is at the top of our top action cameras of 2020.

This model records videos in 4K at 60 frames per second and in HDR. The 8 also has improved electronic image stabilization compared to the Hero 7, so videos will be even smoother than before.

The biggest change to the Hero 8 action camera is its design. It's sleeker than its predecessors and has a built-in mount that eliminates the need to purchase an additional frame or case, while also providing quick access to a memory card and USB port for simultaneous shooting and charging.

In addition, the camera is waterproof and does not require a protective casing when submerged to a depth of 10 meters. It has a built-in touch screen and responds to voice commands.

GoPro has a very good app and software for editing your videos. In addition, the company recently released new software that allows you to use the GoPro Hero8 Black as a webcam. This feature currently only works on Macs, but GoPro is developing a version compatible with Windows.

Pros : customizable presets, you can adjust the bitrate, the Horizon Leveling function, which prevents the horizon from falling and twitching, accelerated video can be returned to normal shooting with one click on the screen.

Cons : quieter speaker sound compared to Hero 7, mediocre quality of shooting at night, short operating time (40 minutes with periodic on/off and about an hour and a half with continuous shooting).

SJCAM comparison of Sj8 line models

The Chinese company Sjcam has long been a leader in the market. It is the mini-cameras of this manufacturer that can fully compete with GoPro itself. In this review I would like to look at the newest line of devices - Sj8 .

There are three cameras in total in this family: from the most budget-friendly for beginners to the most expensive for professionals. It’s great that this option has a “golden mean” that you can take advantage of. So, three models of SjCAM action cameras: Sj8 Air, Sj8 Plus, Sj8 Pro .

Comparison of characteristics:

I recommend the official Sjcam store on Aliexpress. It has been operating for 8 years and has an excellent rating. Models of all lines and a huge number of accessories directly from China. No fakes!

Now let's talk about each in more detail. Let's start with the most affordable model, which is suitable as the first action camera for a beginner.

9th place. Sj8 Air

The first difference that catches your eye is the absence of a display on the front side of the camera. The other two models have one. The gadget has a Russian-language interface and the ability to shoot video in FullHD format at a maximum of 30 frames per second. There is a Wi-Fi connection and the ability to synchronize with a smartphone when downloading the application.

The latest camera models come with an updated connection interface - now instead of the outdated micro-USB, a USB Type-C connector is installed. It is located under a rubber cover that protects from dust and dirt.

SHOW SPECIFICATIONS

• Processor: Novatek NT96658
• Matrix: Panasonic MN34112PA 14 MP
• Viewing Angle: 160 degrees, 7 glass lenses
• Stabilization: none
• Display: LCD 2.33 inches
• Battery: 1200 MAh, 130 minutes of continuous shooting
• Maximum micro SD support: up to 128 GB
• Shooting mode: Full HD - 30 FPS, HD - 30 FPS
• Interface: USB Type-C
• Wireless connections: Wi-Fi
• Synchronization with mobile application: yes
• Weight: 80 g
• Size (approx): Height: 4.1 cm, Length: 6.3 cm, Width: 2.9 cm

The equipment can be as minimal as a camera, charging cable and instructions. And the maximum one with a spare battery, various mounts and an aquabox. The price will vary approximately +- 20$ . I recommend immediately purchasing the more advanced version. This will be much more profitable than later purchasing accessories separately.

8th place. The middle position in the new line is Sj8 Plus

The model is made with high quality and would have claimed the title of flagship if there had not been a Pro version. The body is made of durable and pleasant to the touch plastic. On the front side of the camera there is a small display that can be used to minimize battery consumption.

As you might have guessed, this model is equipped with more serious functions than the previous one. For example, Plus has 3-axis stabilization when shooting Full HD, and also has the ability to shoot 4K video at 30 FPS.

SHOW SPECIFICATIONS

• Processor: Novatek NT96683
• Matrix: Sony IMX117 12 MP
• Viewing Angle: 170 degrees, 7 glass lenses
• Lens Diameter: 2.88mm
• Stabilization: 3-axis gyroscope
• Display: LCD 2.33 inches
• Battery: 1200 MAh, 100 minutes of continuous shooting in 4K
• Maximum micro SD support: up to 128 GB
• Shooting mode: 4K - 30 FPS, Full HD - 60 FPS, HD - 120 FPS
• Interface: USB Type-C
• Wireless connections: Wi-Fi
• Synchronization with mobile application: yes
• Weight: 85 g
• Size (approx): Height: 4.1 cm, Length: 6.25 cm, Width: 2.9 cm

4K Daytime Shooting:

The model is also available in several configuration options.

7th place. Sj8PRO - the most expensive camera of the eighth series

This device is the top choice when choosing a good camera with 4K 60 frames per second mode and at an affordable price. Of the budget models, only the Xiaomi Yi 4K, which we reviewed a little higher, can compare with it. But still, Sj8Pro is a more professional camera.

SHOW SPECIFICATIONS

• Processor: Ambarella H22S85
• Matrix: Sony IMX377 12 MP
• Viewing Angle: 170 degrees
• Lens Diameter: 2.88mm
• Stabilization: 3-axis gyroscope
• Display: OLED touch 2.33 inches
• Battery: 1200 MAh, 90 minutes of continuous shooting in 4K with the screen off and Wi-fi
• Maximum micro SD support: up to 128 GB
• Shooting mode: 4K - 30/60 FPS, 2K - 30/60 FPS, Full HD - 60/120 FPS, HD - 240 FPS
• Interface: USB Type-C
• Wireless connections: Wi-Fi
• Synchronization with mobile application: yes
• Weight: 85 g
• Size (approx): Height: 4.1 cm, Length: 6.25 cm, Width: 2.9 cm

Many noted that with the release of new Sjcam families, gadgets are only getting better.
So the design of the sj8 Pro is made with high quality and conscientiously. The body is made of pleasant soft-touch plastic. Which will prevent the device from slipping out of your hands, even if you are wearing gloves. A monochrome screen on the front of the device will help you film a vlog and also save battery power for as long as possible. The 2.33-inch touch display has already proven itself to be highly responsive and free of glitches.

The camera, like previous models, is equipped with a 1/4″ thread for installing mounts and has several configuration options. Connection is only via a single USB Type-C, to which, by the way, it is possible to connect an external microphone. This will be useful for video bloggers.

Of the minuses:

• There is no stabilization when shooting 4K 60FPS (4K30FPS only). Although the camera looks like a pro, its processor is not that powerful. Like, for example, GoPro 7, which easily copes with this. But the prices of these models differ significantly from each other.
• In previous lines, gadgets could be used as a webcam. Sj8Pro does not have such a function

Let's go through the settings in detail:

Daytime shooting in 4K 60FPS mode:

Night shooting in 4K 60FPS mode:

6th place. GoPro Hero 4 Black

This camera has already been discontinued, but still remains a top seller on the market. Therefore, if you want to buy a professional action camera from a legendary manufacturer, you should hurry up.

Unfortunately, as of fall 2020, GoPro Hero 4, 5, and 6 . Perhaps they can still be found in small shops or small provinces.