14 Best GoPro Alternatives You Can Buy in 2023

When it comes to VR headsets, GoPro may be the first name that comes to mind, but it’s not your only option. Many companies, either large or small, have entered the industry in recent years, and many of them now sell extremely compelling goods at much cheaper prices, enabling you to purchase a decent action camera without burning a hole in the pocket. So, let’s find out the 14 best GoPro alternatives you can purchase in if you are on the market for an action camera.

Best GoPro Alternatives for Action Camera

Seeing that GoPro has a whole range of devices in its portfolio, including action cameras such as the Hero 8, 360-degree cameras, as well as smaller, cheaper devices such as the Session, we have a variety of choices that will cover the whole range as well. So, regardless of which GoPro camera you’re thinking of, you’re likely to find an alternative on our list.

Based on the price range, we’ve divided the list into three parts. Depending on your budget, you can conveniently navigate to the desired section by clicking on the link below.

• Alternatives to GoPro: High-end
• Alternatives to GoPro: Mid-range
• Alternatives to GoPro: Entry-level

Beginner’s Purchasing Guide

First, a premium action camera should be capable of recording in 4K/60FPS, whereas budget action cameras should be capable of recording in 1080/60FPS. Furthermore, it will be perfect for customizing video parameters on the go if the action camera gives you a touchscreen.

Besides, since action cameras are supposed to be durable to withstand the harsh environment, you must check the build quality. Last but not least, a waterproof action camera must be able to withstand at least 10 meters of water pressure. And if you get voice command features, remote control through an app, wide-angle lens, HDR processing, then those bonuses are added.

The accessory support is something that does not relate to the action camera capabilities but is also very important. Thanks to its success, GoPro cameras have great accessory support. Be sure to see if you are purchasing an action camera if it has the requisite accessory market to allow you to adapt the camera for various shooting scenarios.

GoPro Alternatives: High-end

1. Osmo Action by DJI

GoPro has dominated the action camera room for a long time, but now the rivalry has gotten fierce with DJI’s foray into the pocket camera domain. Last year, under the Osmo series, DJI released its action camera and it received rave reviews from all quarters. It comes with a 4K video recording at 60FPS, for good measure. That isn’t it, however. Osmo

The action also supports 4K-60FPS HDR video rendering, which is awesome. It has three Aspherical Layers Lenses, as well as RockSteady technology, which can shake off any jitter or vibration, providing rock-solid footage similar to GoPro cameras. Aside from that, you can take 8X slow-motion videos, use your voice to monitor the camera, and personalize the fast turn button for easy navigation. The duo screen, which is available on both the back and front, is a standout feature of the DJI Osmo Action.

You can select different parameters and shoot videos then and there quickly. Osmo Action is also waterproof to a depth of 11 meters, which is a plus. I would say DJI Osmo Action is an excellent alternative to the GoPro action camera, considering all the points, and you must give it a try.

The Pros

• 4K for 60FPS
• Outstanding stabilization
• Slow-motion 8X
• Rendering HDR with

Negatives

• No big drawbacks as such

2. ONE X Insta360

The Insta360 ONE X supports up to 360-degree video capture at up to 5.7K, placing it in the center of price-effectiveness and best features. The videos turn out to be very smooth and satisfying with the addition of 50 fps shooting. The ONE X supports 3K video recording at 100 fps if you want beautiful and cinema-quality video clips in slow motion. It has dual fisheye lenses with a 210-degree field of view and a Sony sensor.

Besides, for Gimbal-like stability, the One X features FlowState Stabilization and super-smooth and balanced hyperlapse images. The camera supports 5GHz Wi-Fi with a maximum speed of 50MBps for direct transfer to smartphones. In addition to shooting fantastic images, the camera can also take 18-megapixel circular photos with correction options to cover and make the official selfie stick invisible.

The Pros

• Great for videos of 360 degrees
• Recording in 5.7K
• Stabilization by FlowState
• Direct WiFi sharing

Negatives

• The battery life is short

3. The Ricoh Theta V

The Ricoh Theta V is a recent addition to Ricoh’s action camera range, bringing sharp 4K shooting to the table. It also shoots 360-degree videos at 30 frames per second, in addition to 4K. It has a great spherical camera to help you take some awesome 360 images.

The support for remote control, which lets you run the action camera without touching it, is what makes us count it among the greatest GoPro alternatives. Instead, you can use the remote control included in the package in noisy environments.

You can also adjust the lens’s viewing angle and switch between large, medium, and narrow fields of view. For swimmers, the Ricoh Theta V is a perfect option for recording life underwater and can withstand water abrasion.

The absence of optical image stabilization may be the only slightly disappointing bit, but it comes with Advanced EIS that should allow you to keep the videos defying the adventure and adrenaline rush vibrations. The Ricoh Theta V also features Bluetooth and direct Wi-Fi sharing, in addition to these features.

The Pros

• 4K resolution is supported
• 360-degree videography
• EIS with advanced features

Negatives

Waterproofing requires a case

4. FDR-X3000/R Sony Action Cam

The FDR-X3000, Sony’s flagship action camera, may not be the industry leader in its category, but it does have one main feature that the GoPro Hero 8 lacks: optical image stabilization (OIS).

Right now, the FDR-X3000 is one of the best GoPro alternatives in the market, but it looks more like a size-down camcorder than anything else, unlike the GoPro products that look more like small boxes with a lens mounted on one side. A 12MP Exmor R CMOS sensor with a ZEISS lens comes with the unit.

It can take 4K videos at 30 frames per second and super slow-mo videos at 240 frames per second, but only if you’re satisfied with 720p resolution.

With built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC, GPS, HDMI, USB, and microphone port, the Sony FDR-X3000 comes with 3x rec. lights and adjustable beep volume for improved power. The RM-LVR3 is an ‘R’ version of the camera that includes a LiveView Remote, which connects to the camera via Bluetooth and enables it to be operated remotely.

The camera is splash-proof, but it also comes with a waterproof case that allows it to be used at depths of up to 197 meters.

Sony also produces the HDR-AS50 action camera, which is nearly half the price of the X3000 but has nearly similar features. The narrower focal range and restriction of full HD videos to 60fps are the only places where it lags behind the X3000 or X3000R, whereas the 120fps mode is only available for HD (720p) videos.

The Pros

• Recording in 4K
• Promotes OIS
• Lens ZEISS
• Great output underwater

Negatives

• Slightly voluminous

5. Olympus Tough TG-6

Olympus may be a well-known name for photography enthusiasts, but with the TG-6, which stands out from the crowd of me-too action cameras with a powerful and stylish design, the company entered the action camera market only recently. The computer also has the specifications and features to fit its good looks, making it one of the top GoPro Alternatives.

The system features a 12MP sensor that is combined with an f/2.0 lens to capture crispness and clarity for fast action. The lens is also wider than the GoPro Hero 8 Black, which has a maximum angle of view of about 150 degrees and has a 204-degree angle of view. The camera can shoot 4K videos at 30 frames per second (fps), but it can also shoot 1080p videos at 120 fps.

To minimize blur and camera shakes, there’s also 5-axis electronic image stabilization (EIS). To make it easier for users to compose shots when on the move, there is a 1.5 ” tilt-out LCD, and a 60-lumen front LED headlight to make it easy to shoot in the dark.
The unit also has Wi-Fi access, is waterproof up to 100 feet deep, and has five built-in sensors, including GPS, e-Compass, accelerometer, thermometer, and barometer. Overall, the Olympus Tough TG-6 is a great action camera, particularly considering its price point, thanks to its tough nature, waterproofing, and high-quality photos and videos.

The Pros

• Recording in 4K
• Supporting WiFi
• Sensors built-in
• The tough style

Negatives

• No Touchscreen

6. Virb 360

The Campark X30 is on the low end of the price scale, while the Garmin Virb 360 is on the high end. It’s rough, it’s waterproof, it’s larger, it’s heavier, and it has features that even the GoPro Fusion can only dream of. If you thought it was nice to be able to take 4K videos on the Fusion, the Virb 360 is on a different planet altogether.

The computer, although un-stitched, can snap 15MP images and shoot 5.7K videos at 30 fps. It can also film regular 4K videos with in-camera stitching at the same frame-rate. To ensure smooth videos regardless of camera movement, the system also has 4 built-in microphones to capture 360-degree audio and 4K spherical stabilization.’

The Garmin Virb 360 is fitted with two 1/2.3-inch 12MP CMOS sensors, as well as built-in GPS and GLONASS. It is also compatible with the patented G-Metrix technology from Garmin that shows data overlays in augmented 360-degree reality.

Another great aspect of the camera is that it can be operated by voice, using the trigger words “OK Garmin.” GPS, accelerometer, barometer, gyroscope, and magnetometer (e-compass) are among the sensors, while Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth, and ANT+ provide wireless communication. The unit holds a 1,250mAh battery that is said to fire on a single charge for more than 1 hour.

The Pros

• Support for a 360-degree camera
• Supports resolution of 5.7K
• Battery life is satisfactory.
• Spatial audio

Negatives

• There isn’t any built-in stabilization.
• Cost is elevated

GoPro Alternatives: Mid-range

7. AKASO Brave 7 

One of the best feature-packed GoPro alternatives you may want to consider is the AKASO Brave 7 action camera. This action camera has a 2″ touch screen, records 4K video at 30 frames per second with advanced EIS, and takes 20MP images. All that is fine, but the unique features are what make this action camera a great purchase.

First and foremost, this is a small and light action camera, weighing just 80 grams with a battery inside. Secondly, it has features such as the diving mode, which filters the red light underwater, and you can take it for a swim because the camera comes with a waterproof case in the package.

Wireless smartphone power, an adjustable view angle lens with four different settings up to super wide-angle, support for timelapse, slow motion, wind noise reduction, long exposure, and more are all included.

The AKASO Brave 7 camera module is eligible for $139 on Amazon, and it’s a significant amount because it contains all of the necessary accessories. Two 1350mAh action camera batteries, a waterproof case, a remote control, a bicycle stand, a 10x mount, a 2x helmet mount, five tethers, a secure backdoor, and more are included in the kit.

Yeah, the Brave 7 has you covered in terms of features and accessories, so if you’re looking for a GoPro alternative that’s both feature-rich and affordable, the AKASO Brave 7 should be a good fit.

The Pros

• Recording in 4K resolution
• EIS with advanced features
• Timelapse help, slow-motion
• Touchscreen

Negatives

• No support for 60FPS

8. Campark X30

The Campark X30 is the newest addition to the company’s action camera lineup, and it’s also the most powerful. The camera can capture 4K video at 60 frames per second and 1080p video at 120 frames per second. A 12-megapixel sensor for still photography is supported by the Campark X30 and comes with a smart LCD monitor inside the box set that hooks onto the action camera.

The Campark X30 comes with several accessories inside the box, including a protective case, tripod mounts, adhesive pads, lens shield, decals, lanyards, and a USB cord, in addition to the LCD panel.

A 1350 mAh battery is used on the Campark X30, which is reported to last up to three hours of continuous recording. Moreover, explorers can download captured videos and photos over Wi-Fi with the dedicated app for Android and iOS, or view and even post a live video directly on your social media.

When the built-in gyroscope detects some change in gravity, the Campark X30 is packed with additional features such as automatic recording, making it one of the desired GoPro alternatives.

The Pros

• Supported by 4K at 60FPS
• Display Touchscreen
• Excellent battery life

Negatives

• None at all

9. Ghost X Drift

The Drift Ghost X, developed and marketed by Drift Innovation in the United Kingdom, is yet another cool GoPro alternative that was recently released as a major improvement over its predecessor, the Drift HD Action Camera, which was released in 2016.

Although its predecessor was only able to shoot 720p videos at 30fps, at up to 30fps, the Drift Ghost X can do 1080p videos. The Sony IMX117CQT 1/2.3 CMOS sensor is combined with 4GB NAND Flash and 8GB DDR3L (low-voltage) memory in this camera. The system also has dual-band Wi-Fi that operates at 2.4GHz and 5.8GHz.

The Ghost X has dual microphones to cut down on wind noise, as well as video stabilization to minimize distortion in images and videos. The camera also features a modular design that allows users to install an extra LCD screen or external battery packs, allowing them more flexibility on how they use it.

You can also attach the unit to the Drift Lite app that lets you remotely control it. A built-in 1,500mAh battery with an additional 500mAh battery pack included with the retail pack is carried in the Drift Ghost X.

The Pros

• Up to 300 degrees for recording
• Water-resistant
• The battery life is satisfactory

Negatives

No Recording 4K

GoPro Alternatives: Entry-level

10. EK7000 AKASO

We have the undisputed king of the low-cost AKASO EK7000 action cameras. The product is only $75 on Amazon, but it has a long list of features that belie its low price. It has a 12-megapixel sensor and a 170-degree wide-angle lens, and it can film 4K videos at 25 frames per second.

The camera supports Wi-Fi and HDMI networking and comes with 2 1,050mAh rechargeable batteries, each of which is said to take up to 90 minutes to record videos. The computer features a 2′′ LCD and is up to 100 feet waterproof.

The EK7000 ships with a ‘Wireless Wrist Remote’ that makes it easy via Wi-Fi to remotely monitor the camera, frame shots, or record video. The camera also provides a burst mode that shoots images at 30 frames per second, while a time-lapse mode automatically shoots photos from 0.5 to 60 seconds at fixed time intervals. All things considered, the EK7000 is most definitely the safest, tried-and-true, low-cost GoPro alternative ever.

The Pros

• Recording in 4K
• Remote Control Control
• Has two rechargeable batteries
• Wireless sharing

Negatives

• Mediocre battery life

11. Campark 4K

The Campark 4K might be a good choice if you have found Campark’s above-mentioned action camera to be an attractive option but are cash-strapped. Despite being one-fourth the price of the X30, the Campark 4K has a Sony IMX206 sensor that allows for 4K shooting at 30 frames per second. The action camera has dual-band Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, allowing you to monitor it remotely and share the images and videos you capture with your smartphone.

The Campark 4K is a versatile and inexpensive camera that can capture images at 20MP and has electronic image stabilization (EIS) to keep the images still. For I/O, there’s a 2-inch monitor, and the built-in battery can record videos at 1080p for over two hours. Finally, you can set individual picture quality parameters to capture good-looking shots regardless of the ambience, giving you more control over your shots.

The Pros

• Recording in 4K
• Includes external mic
• Remote Control Control

Negatives

• No Touchscreen

12. 4K Dragon Touch

In a much smaller form factor, the Dragon Touch 4K provides all of the functionality of a great and accurate action camera. In funky colors and small modular designs, it comes. More appropriately, the compact camera is a lifestyle action camera. It comes with electronic image stabilization, however, and the ability to monitor the system remotely, which makes it a worthy alternative to GoPro.

The Dragon Touch 4K can capture up to 4K videos at 30 frames per second and Full HD videos at 60 frames per second. Aside from images, it also takes 8-megapixel photos and has a 900mAh battery that can record in high definition for over 100 minutes.

Dragon Touch 4K also provides several accessories to give you the courage to take the Dragon on adventures, such as the waterproof and shockproof shell, a selection of mounts, and a protective cover.

The Pros

• 4K resolution is supported
• Wide-angle camera with a field of view of 170-degrees
• EIS available

Negatives

• Mediocre battery life

13. Crosstour Camera Action

On the last-gen camera, the Crosstour Action Camera has been updated and comes with key improvements over the previous iteration. At this price, the most enticing and welcome addition is that of support for 4K recording. A 2-inch screen is now available for the Crosstour Action Camera and the smaller bezels give it a more modern look.

The Crosstour Action Camera has built-in dual-band Wi-Fi and can be taken swimming with you thanks to the waterproof case. It can be immersed up to 40 meters deep in water.
Compared to its predecessor, the Crosstour Action Camera also has a larger 1050mAh battery and uses gyro-based stabilization to ensure that the images are as unwavering as your enthusiasm. When you want to remotely monitor the camera and automatically backup recorded media to your tablet, the DV King 4K app is useful.

The Pros

• Recording in 4K
• Great output underwater
• Stable Build
• Dedicated application
• WiFi sharing

Negatives

• Short battery life

14. VanTop Moment 3

The VanTop Moment 3 is our final action camera on this list, and it has all of the essential GoPro camera features. But it offers you 4K recording at 30FPS even at this cost, which is simply incredible. Since the VanTop Moment 3 is fitted with a premium Sony sensor, you can expect even better performance. And you can take advantage of the 60FPS recording if you want to film at 1080p. That’s pretty much too much for the price, is it?

Besides, you can take 16 MP still shots, take ultra-wide (170-degree) videos, and create time-lapse and slow-motion videos. Not to mention, via its XDV app there is support for wireless sharing and remote control too. Finally, in terms of waterproofing, it can be submerged to a depth of 30 meters. Overall, the VanTop Moment 3 is a perfect GoPro option if you’re looking for a low-cost action camera.

The Pros

• 4K video recording feature
• Support for 1080p videos at 60 frames per second
• EIS with advanced features

Negatives

• No Touchscreen

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Is there a less affordable option to a GoPro?

The new DJI Osmo Action comes highly recommended. It is slightly less expensive than the most recent GoPro Hero 8. If you’re on a budget, however, the Akaso Brave 7 or Campark 4K are better choices.

Q. Is GoPro still the best camera?

When it comes to shooting high-motion images, GoPro is still the king. It has HyperSmooth stabilization, HDR processing, a tough build quality, and a slew of accessories to help you make your footage stand out. That said, by providing cheaper and robust alternatives, businesses like DJI are catching up.

Q. Which one is GoPro 8 or Max Better?

If you have a higher budget, then Max would go for it. GoPro has practically maxed the specs out, as the name implies. You have 6K video, better stabilization of HyperSmooth, a wider screen, a 270-degree panorama, and much more.

Q: Which GoPro is the best for underwater photography?

Without any external casing, all GoPro models will achieve a water depth of 10m. Bear in mind, however, that GoPro Max is the only exception and it is only up to 5 m immune, which is surprising. So what I’d recommend is having a regular GoPro and using a case to extend the waterproofing.

Q. Why is GoPro so costly?

In general, GoPro is costly because it gives you a rock-solid experience. You have industry-unparalleled HyperSmooth technology, outstanding build quality that is unprecedented, spatial audio recording, and much more.

Choose the Best GoPro Replacement

GoPro cameras are among the finest that money could buy, but there are ample offers to be had if you nose around, which can get you either equivalent devices at much lower price points or higher-spec devices at comparable price points. We have largely confined ourselves to endorsing products from reputable vendors, such as DJI, Garmin, and Olympus, all of which offer great GoPro alternatives at pocket-friendly prices to satisfy your hunger for the best action camera, because offerings from unknown manufacturers are always a danger.