The B-Roll
Some of our earlier picks remain good cameras, although their characteristics remain behind the newer publications.
The OSMO action 4 camera from DJI for 299 US dollars: Action 4 (8/10, Wired recommends) is a fantastic action camera. The magnetic assembly system is the best that we have tried, the menu system makes changing between modes a snapshot and the resulting photos and video are great. Action 5 exceeds it in different ways, but if you have a limited budget, this is a great camera and integrates well into the DJI ecosystem.
Insta360 One RS Twin Edition for 300 US dollars: I liked the interchangeable lens system when this camera started, but it was two years ago since it was updated and at that time it feels a bit like habitar. If you want to have 360 and action with the same camera, I recommend the above Insta360 x4. It has a better image quality, a better screen and a better battery life for not much more money.
OCLU action camera for 199 US dollars: Oclu has a completely different setting of the action camera and avoids the usual design for a flat body with the primary screen at the top. The result is a camera that can fit in places that cannot fit others – like the bottom of a skateboard. The OCLU shoots 4K at 30 fps or, if you want SLO-MO film material, 1080p at 120 fps. The video and image quality corresponds to what you get from the GoPro Hero 9. My point of criticism is stabilization – it doesn’t help far as much as what you get with others in this guide. Sound, on the other hand, is excellent; I got far less wind noise than with other cameras. All in all, it is difficult to exceed OCLU’s performance for the price.
All of these cheap cameras on Amazon: Readers often ask: Why output 400 US dollars for a GoPro if you can get a camera with 4K videos for $ 100? It is a fair question, and the answer comes to software, mainly image stabilization. Action cameras are designed in such a way that they can be held on helmets or cut off on their chest On a scooter. The results are something without stabilization, even their closest friends are not enforced. So yes, you will get 4K film material with the cheaper cams, but it will be a film material that nobody wants to see. In our opinion, it is better to provide it to output a further 100 US dollars for a GoPro Hero 11 or 12. The results will not be GoPro-caliber, but if you only come in action, this is a good way to test the water.
Best accessories to trick your camera
As soon as you have an action camera, you can choose most applications. GoPro, Insta360 and DJI offer all helmet holders and other ways to capture your camera where you want you. But there are some nice extras that can make the shot from which you dream even easier. Here are some:
A good microSD card: You can get an SD card with your camera. The SD cards from Insta360 are actually pretty good, but I usually use the extreme Pro cards from Sandisk because they are waterproof quickly and as a bonus. You can pick A 512 GB card for around $ 60. I also like Samsungs Pro Plus MicroSD cards that are a little faster in my tests. You can snap 256 GB for around $ 60.
GoPro Media Mod for 80 US dollars: Goopros Sound is okay out of the box, but if you want higher quality audio, start here. Not because the Medienmod Creates a great sound – it is better than the camera, but still not great. What if offers is a microphone book? Enter a high -quality microphone and you will finally have a fantastic sound. (Not recommended for skydiving.)
Joby Gorillapod 3K for 70 US dollars: This flexible tripod extends the assembly options of your action camera to almost everything. My GoPro rarely leaves this tripod. It speaks about SUP boys, tree branches and even my dashboard. Take some tripod adapters below.
Motorcycle accessories bundle for 50 US dollars: When you drive, this holder is a must for the Insta360 X4 (and ACE Pro etc.). It is one of the safest brackets I’ve ever used, almost as good as a bank truck.
Sametop Tripod Mount for $ 8: Action cameras offer many ways to assemble them, but one that lacks strangely, is the traditional quarter-step screw holder. The GoPro Hero 13 has one, but this four -pack adapter solves the problem for the others.
Polarizer and ND filter: If you shoot through glass, through glass or in a different situation with a high glue, a polarizing filter helps to cut this glare. The filters of the neutral density (ND) hold back the light so that they can shoot a broad aperture in light light. Both are great additions to your action camera kit. I tested and like DJI’s ND filter for action 5 (59 US dollars). For the GoPro I like Freewells polarization and ND filter (20 US dollars)Or if you have the hero 13 black, you can get the new one GoPro ND Filter Vier-Pack ($ 70)Which automatically adjusts the camera settings. I suggest starting with an 8-stop ND or Combo ND and a polarizing filter.
Floating for 30 US dollars: Another for the water shooters, but worth the money because it keeps your GoPro from landing on the sea floor.
Selfie stick for $ 25: I tested a lot of selfie sticks and almost everything is fine, but I grab this Insta360 version again and again when I go out of the door. It is easy, small enough to fit on the bottom of my bag and it is affordable. If you want to grow big, this Insta360 Extended Edition Selfie Stick ($ 100) Can imitate a deeply flying drone, perfect for use in national parks and other places where drones are prohibited.