THE BEST ACTION CAMERAS

If you love water sports such as swimming, drifting, or surfing, you need an action camera that can capture every thrilling moment with outstanding clarity and durability. In 2025, top action cameras combine high resolutions, rugged waterproof designs, Wi‑Fi connectivity, remote control features, and long battery life to meet the needs of adventurers and professionals alike. Below, we present in-depth reviews of 12 of the best action cameras available, along with a comprehensive comparison table and essential buying tips.

TOP ACTION CAMERAS COMPARISON TABLE

Model	Resolution	Battery Life	Weight	Editor Rating
WOLFANG Action Camera GA100	4K / 1080p / 720p	90 min	43 g	9.5
AKASO EK7000	4K / 2.7K	100 min	110 g	9.8
GoPro HERO12 Black	5.3K / 4K	75 min	74 g	9.7
DJI Osmo Action 4 Standard Combo	4K	90 min	84 g	9.8
GoPro HERO13 Black	5.3K / 4K	80 min	77 g	9.6
Syndesmos Action Camera	4K / 30MP	180 min	110 g	9.7
GoPro HERO10 Black	5K / 4K	70 min	73 g	9.8
AKASO Brave 7 LE	4K	95 min	125 g	9.9
DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro Standard Combo	4K	90 min	84 g	9.8
Insta360 X4-8K Waterproof 360	8K 360° / 4K	135 min	203 g	9.3
Surfola Action Camera	2.7K / 4K	85 min	115 g	9.8
Apexcam 4K Action Camera	4K	90 min	124	9.4

WOLFANG ACTION CAMERA GA100

• Resolution: 4K 30FPS (front) / 1080P 60FPS / 720P 120FPS
• Screen Size: 2 Inches
• Video Resolution: Up to 4K UHD
• Waterproof: Waterproof up to 40M (Underwater for Snorkeling)
• Video Frame Rate: 30 fps
• Bluetooth Version: (Not specified; uses Wi‑Fi connectivity)
• Battery Life: Approximately 90 minutes (with two 1050mAh batteries)
• Dimensions: 25 x 60 x 42 mm
• Weight: 43 g

The WOLFANG Action Camera GA100 is built for adventurers who demand exceptional video quality and versatility. Equipped with a CMOS sensor and capable of recording in 4K 30FPS, 2.7K 30FPS, 1080P 60FPS, and 720P 120FPS, it allows you to capture stunning footage and freeze moments in brilliant detail. Its 170° wide-angle lens ensures that every part of your surroundings is in view, making it ideal for helmet-mounted vlogging.

Designed with a durable waterproof case, this camera can be taken underwater up to 40 meters, making it perfect for snorkeling, surfing, and other water sports. With EIS stabilization, your footage remains smooth even in rough conditions. Additionally, built-in Wi‑Fi and remote control options let you share your adventures instantly. Compact and lightweight, the GA100 offers great performance in a portable package.

AKASO EK7000 ACTION CAMERA

• Resolution: 4K Ultra HD (30fps) / 2.7K (30fps)
• Screen Size: 2.0 Inches
• Video Resolution: Up to 4K UHD
• Waterproof: Waterproof with IP68 case (up to 40M underwater)
• Video Frame Rate: 30 fps
• Bluetooth Version: 4.1
• Battery Life: Up to 90 minutes per battery (2 rechargeable batteries included)
• Dimensions: 65 x 45 x 40 mm
• Weight: 110 g

The AKASO EK7000 is a versatile and affordable action camera designed for capturing high-definition video and 20MP photos. It delivers 4K Ultra HD at 30fps, along with smooth 2.7K footage, offering a significant upgrade over traditional HD recording. The 2.0-inch LCD screen makes it easy to view and adjust settings in the field.

Its rugged, waterproof design (IP68-rated) allows you to take it underwater up to 40 meters, making it an excellent choice for water sports enthusiasts. The camera comes with a wireless remote control for hands-free operation and features built-in Wi‑Fi and HDMI output for quick editing and sharing. With a battery life of approximately 90 minutes per battery and a compact, lightweight design, the EK7000 is perfect for extended adventures.

GOPRO HERO12 BLACK ACTION CAMERA

• Resolution: 5.3K
• Screen Size: 2.0 Inches (Touchscreen)
• Video Resolution: Up to 5.3K UHD
• Waterproof: Waterproof up to 10M without a case
• Video Frame Rate: 60 fps
• Bluetooth Version: 5.0
• Battery Life: Approximately 75 minutes
• Dimensions: 66 x 48 x 29 mm
• Weight: 154 g

The GoPro HERO12 Black sets a new benchmark in action camera technology with its incredible 5.3K video capture and HDR for both video and photo. Its advanced GP2 processor ensures smooth performance, making it ideal for high-intensity water sports. The 2.0-inch touchscreen provides intuitive control, and the camera’s rugged, waterproof design (up to 10 meters without a case) makes it perfect for swimming, surfing, and drifting.

With a 60 fps capture rate, every moment is rendered in ultra-smooth motion. Its impressive image stabilization and high dynamic range capabilities ensure that your footage maintains cinematic quality in varied lighting conditions. Bluetooth 5.0, Wi‑Fi connectivity, and remote control features allow you to share your adventures instantly, making the HERO12 Black a top choice for professional and recreational water sports enthusiasts.

DJI OSMO ACTION 4 STANDARD COMBO ACTION CAMERA

• Resolution: 4K
• Screen Size: 2.25 Inches
• Video Resolution: Up to 4K UHD
• Waterproof: Waterproof up to 11M without a case
• Video Frame Rate: 60 fps
• Bluetooth Version: 5.0
• Battery Life: Approximately 90 minutes
• Dimensions: 70 x 46 x 38 mm
• Weight: 84 g

The DJI Osmo Action 4 Standard Combo is designed for extreme adventures and professional-quality recording. With a 4K UHD resolution at 60 fps, this camera produces vibrant, ultra-smooth footage ideal for water sports. The 2.25-inch LCD screen offers clear visuals for reviewing your recordings on the go.

Its rugged, waterproof design (up to 11 meters without a case) makes it perfect for swimming, surfing, and snorkeling. Enhanced connectivity with Bluetooth 5.0 and built-in Wi‑Fi ensures seamless remote control and file sharing. The combo’s battery life of around 90 minutes, along with its compact and lightweight build, makes the Osmo Action 4 a reliable companion on all your aquatic adventures.

GOPRO HERO13 BLACK ACTION CAMERA

• Resolution: 5.3K (front) / 4K (rear)
• Screen Size: 2.27 Inches (Touchscreen)
• Video Resolution: Up to 5.3K UHD
• Waterproof: Waterproof up to 10M without a case
• Video Frame Rate: 60 fps
• Bluetooth Version: 5.1
• Battery Life: Approximately 80 minutes
• Dimensions: 34 x 57 x 51 mm (packaged), 66 x 48 x 29 mm (camera)
• Weight: 350 g (packaged), 77 g (camera)

The GoPro HERO13 Black builds on its legacy by offering superior image quality and versatility. With a 5.3K resolution for front recording and 4K for rear, it captures breathtaking detail in every shot. The touchscreen interface (2.27 inches) makes operation intuitive, while the waterproof design (up to 10 meters without a case) ensures it withstands vigorous water sports.

Recording at 60 fps, it delivers ultra-smooth footage, and the advanced Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity enhances remote control and sharing capabilities. With an 80-minute battery life and robust build quality, the HERO13 Black is an ideal choice for athletes and water sports enthusiasts looking for top-tier performance.

SYNDESMOS ACTION CAMERA

• Resolution: 4K & 30MP (Photos)
• Screen Size: 2.0″ (front non-touch) / 2.0″ (rear touch)
• Video Resolution: Up to 4K UHD at 60 fps
• Waterproof: Waterproof up to 40M (with case)
• Video Frame Rate: 60 fps (in 4K mode)
• Bluetooth Version: N/A (uses Wi‑Fi connectivity)
• Battery Life: Up to 3 hours total (with 2 batteries)
• Dimensions: 30 x 58 x 40 mm
• Weight: Not specified (use approximate package weight: 560g)

The syndesmos Action Camera stands out with its dual capability of recording 4K UHD video at 60 fps and capturing 30MP still photos. Its 170° fish-eye lens delivers a wide perspective perfect for extreme sports and water activities. The camera is waterproof up to 40 meters when used with the provided case, making it ideal for snorkeling, surfing, and diving.

With a dual-screen design—a 2-inch touch-sensitive rear and a 1.4-inch non-touch front—it offers convenience for framing selfies and accessing settings on the go. Its long battery life (up to 3 hours with two batteries) ensures you never miss a moment. Wireless connectivity via Wi‑Fi makes sharing footage effortless, while features like Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS) guarantee smooth and steady videos.

GOPRO HERO10 BLACK

• Resolution: 5K (front) / 4K (rear)
• Screen Size: 2.0″ Touchscreen
• Video Resolution: Up to 5K UHD
• Waterproof: Waterproof up to 10M without a case
• Video Frame Rate: 60 fps
• Bluetooth Version: 5.0
• Battery Life: Approximately 70 minutes
• Dimensions: 66 x 48 x 29 mm
• Weight: 73 g

The GoPro HERO10 Black revolutionizes action camera performance with its powerful GP2 processor and exceptional video quality. Capturing up to 5K UHD footage at 60 fps, it delivers stunningly smooth video perfect for fast-paced water sports. Its 2.0-inch touchscreen offers intuitive control, making it easy to navigate settings while on the move.

Engineered for rugged use, it is waterproof up to 10 meters without a case, making it an excellent choice for surfing, drifting, and swimming. With Bluetooth 5.0 and Wi‑Fi connectivity, remote control and instant sharing are at your fingertips. Compact and lightweight at just 73 grams, the HERO10 Black is designed for extreme adventures, though its battery life of 70 minutes may require spare batteries on extended trips.

AKASO BRAVE 7 LE ACTION CAMERA

• Resolution: 4K
• Screen Size: 2 Inches (dual-display)
• Video Resolution: Up to 4K UHD
• Waterproof: Waterproof up to 40M (with case)
• Video Frame Rate: 30 fps
• Bluetooth Version: N/A (uses Wi‑Fi connectivity)
• Battery Life: Approximately 95 minutes
• Dimensions: 27.3 x 10.5 x 6.9 cm (package)
• Weight: 610 g (package weight); camera body is much lighter

The AKASO Brave 7 LE Action Camera is a rugged, all-weather device designed to handle any extreme scenario. It records in full 4K UHD at 30 fps, capturing vivid details even during high-speed water sports. The innovative dual-display setup—featuring a front screen ideal for selfies and a responsive 2-inch rear touchscreen—ensures you can frame and review your shots with ease.

With an IPX7 water-resistant rating (up to 40 meters underwater with the case), it is perfect for snorkeling, surfing, and drifting. Its battery lasts about 95 minutes, and built-in Wi‑Fi allows for quick sharing of footage. This camera’s durable design and comprehensive accessory kit make it a favorite among water sports enthusiasts and adventurers.

DJI OSMO ACTION 5 PRO STANDARD COMBO ACTION CAMERA

• Resolution: 4K
• Screen Size: 2.5 Inches
• Video Resolution: Up to 4K UHD
• Waterproof: Waterproof up to 11M (without case)
• Video Frame Rate: 60 fps
• Bluetooth Version: 5.0
• Battery Life: Approximately 90 minutes
• Dimensions: 70 x 46 x 38 mm
• Weight: 84 g

The DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro Standard Combo is crafted for professionals who need a versatile and high-performance camera for dynamic water sports and outdoor activities. With 4K UHD recording at 60 fps, it delivers ultra-smooth, detailed footage. The 2.5-inch LCD touchscreen makes it easy to control settings even in challenging environments.

Its waterproof design (up to 11 meters without a case) makes it ideal for capturing underwater adventures and extreme sports. Bluetooth 5.0 and Wi‑Fi connectivity enable seamless remote control and rapid file sharing. With a robust 90-minute battery life and compact dimensions, the Osmo Action 5 Pro offers exceptional durability and performance for thrill-seekers.

INSTA360 X4-8K WATERPROOF 360 ACTION CAMERA

• Resolution: 8K (360°) or 4K (wide-angle)
• Screen Size: 2.5 Inches
• Video Resolution: Up to 8K 360° / 4K UHD
• Waterproof: Waterproof up to 10M (without case); 60M with dive case
• Video Frame Rate: 30 fps (8K) / 60 fps (4K)
• Bluetooth Version: 5.0
• Battery Life: Approximately 135 minutes
• Dimensions: 75 x 55 x 50 mm
• Weight: 203 g

The Insta360 X4-8K Waterproof 360 Action Camera is a revolutionary device that lets you capture your adventures from every angle. With immersive 8K 360° video and an alternative wide-angle 4K mode, it provides unparalleled detail and flexibility. The 2.5-inch LCD screen makes it simple to frame your shots, and its waterproof design allows for underwater filming without a case up to 10 meters – or up to 60 meters with the Invisible Dive Case.

Featuring Bluetooth 5.0 and Wi‑Fi connectivity, the X4 enables rapid sharing and remote control via the Insta360 app. With a robust battery life of up to 135 minutes and compact, lightweight construction, this camera is perfect for capturing all your water sports adventures in stunning, panoramic detail.

SURFOLA ACTION CAMERA

• Resolution: 2.7K / 4K
• Screen Size: 2 Inches
• Video Resolution: Up to 4K UHD
• Waterproof: Waterproof up to 40M (with case)
• Video Frame Rate: 30 fps
• Bluetooth Version: (Not specified; uses Wi‑Fi)
• Battery Life: Approximately 85 minutes
• Dimensions: 68 x 48 x 42 mm
• Weight: 115 g

The Surfola Action Camera offers excellent performance at a competitive price. Capable of recording up to 4K UHD video at 30 fps, it captures clear and smooth footage ideal for a range of water sports. With a waterproof case that allows underwater use up to 40 meters, it is perfect for snorkeling, surfing, and diving.

Its 2-inch screen provides basic on-camera playback, and built-in Wi‑Fi enables easy sharing of your adventures. The camera’s compact design and light weight make it highly portable, while an 85-minute battery life ensures you can record extended sessions without interruption.

APEXCAM 4K ACTION CAMERA

• Resolution: 4K
• Screen Size: 2 Inches
• Video Resolution: Up to 4K UHD
• Waterproof: Waterproof up to 40M (with case, IP68 rated)
• Video Frame Rate: 30 fps
• Bluetooth Version: 4.1
• Battery Life: Approximately 90 minutes
• Dimensions: 6 x 4 x 2.5 cm (product dimensions)
• Weight: 432 g (package weight)

The Apexcam 4K Action Camera is engineered to deliver professional-grade footage in a compact, durable package. Recording in 4K UHD at 30 fps, it produces vivid, detailed videos that are perfect for capturing extreme water sports and outdoor adventures. Its waterproof case (IP68 rated) allows you to shoot underwater up to 40 meters, making it ideal for activities like swimming, rafting, and surfing.

With built-in Wi‑Fi and remote control capabilities, sharing your recordings is quick and hassle-free. Bluetooth 4.1 enables stable connections with your devices, while a battery life of 90 minutes ensures you capture every moment. The Apexcam comes with a rich accessory kit, and its compact dimensions and robust design make it an excellent choice for water sports enthusiasts.

WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING AN ACTION CAMERA?

When choosing an action camera, especially if you’re into water sports like swimming, drifting, or surfing, there are several important factors to consider:

• Resolution and Video Quality: Higher resolutions (4K, 5K, or 8K for 360° capture) provide stunning detail and clarity, essential for capturing every moment of your adventure.
• Battery Life: Consider how long the camera can record on a single charge. Extended battery life is crucial for long days on the water.
• Weight and Dimensions: A compact, lightweight design makes the camera easier to mount on helmets, vehicles, or underwater housings and reduces fatigue during prolonged use.
• Waterproofing: Look for cameras with robust waterproof ratings (often with dedicated cases) that allow for underwater use during snorkeling or diving.
• Camera Angle and Field of View: A wide field of view (typically 150°–170°) is ideal for capturing expansive scenes and fast-moving action.
• Connectivity and Remote Control: Built-in Wi‑Fi, Bluetooth, and GPS enable easy file sharing, remote control, and location tracking for hassle-free operation.
• Additional Features: Features such as Night Vision, Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS), SD card support, and Parking Mode add significant value and versatility.
• Video Frame Rate: A higher frame rate (30 fps or above) ensures smooth, fluid footage even in high-motion scenarios.

By carefully evaluating these factors, you can choose an action camera that meets your specific needs and can withstand the rigors of water sports and outdoor adventures. Enjoy capturing every exhilarating moment with confidence and clarity!

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