We love GoPro.
They’re lightweight, compact, and perfect to capture your adventures. They are a key part of our travel packing list for almost every country.
They can give you unique recording angles when you mount them on sporting equipment, wheels, helmets, and other things.
This versatility opens a whole new range of filming possibilities that you can’t get from a normal camera.
But here’s the problem.
They are expensive!
Not only that, GoPro accessories are also expensive, largely because of their strong brand name.
Plus, a GoPro isn’t always best suited to the sorts of filming you need.
Instead, there are a whole bunch of GoPro alternatives out there that can offer much of the same features, if not better.
Want a quick answer? Our top pick would definitely be the INSTA360 ONE RS.
Nowadays, action cameras aren’t limited to just sports and outdoor adventures. You can also use them for casual holidays and events.
Here are 9 key features to consider when comparing cameras similar to a GoPro.
Above anything else, the image and video quality of your camera is probably the most important. You want to capture moments in the highest resolution possible, which will let you take great travel photos.
We recommend at least 1080p resolution. In terms of video, most cameras offer 4K and at latest 30fps frame rate.
Make sure the camera is lightweight and small, which lets you carry them around with ease. Paying attention to the size and weight specs is crucial if you’re planning to travel with the camera.
You might want to consider the camera shape too. For example, a square action camera is best if you want to hang it around your neck.
Considering it is an action camera, chances are you’ll be using it for memorializing fast actions. You want it to be durable and able to withstand all sorts of weather and conditions.
Otherwise, it’s not gonna last you long and you will be spending even more to replace or fix it.
Choose a camera with a long battery life. When you’re travelling and having the time of your life, you don’t want to worry about your camera running out of battery.
Some action cameras can give you up to 4 hours of recording time in one charge. So, be sure to look at the specs!
Image stabilization is also an important feature to have, as it will prevent shaky videos and blurred images. Especially if you’re shooting a fast-paced sports or dynamic scene.
Most action cameras nowadays will have electronic image stabilization, which should be enough for casual usage.
While most action cameras are splash-proof, not all can actually operate underwater.
If you’re planning to take videos underwater, or travelling to a beach or tropical island, you might want a water resistant GoPro alternative. This lets you capture moments when you’re snorkelling or diving, kayaking, etc.
If you’re here, it’s probably because you’re looking for a cheaper version of GoPro. Before you start, it’s important to determine how much you are willing to spend.
An expensive option may give you endless professional features, but don’t splurge on things you may not even use.
When trying to capture dynamic activities, you may need additional accessories for your GoPro alternative. From a bike or helmet mount, to tripods and even the carrying case.
Don’t forget to check if the camera comes with any accessories, as well as how easy it will be to find compatible ones.
The only reason anyone wants to take photos and videos is to relive those moments later. Maybe you want to share your adventures with your friends and family back home, which is why good connectivity is essential.
Does it come with Bluetooth and WiFi connections? How easy is it to transfer files to your mobile phone?
Weight: 126g (4K build) or 136g (360 build)
Image resolution: 48MP
Video resolution: 6K (25fps) or 5.7K (30fps) in 360 build
Battery: 90 minutes of 4k recording
Water resistant: 60m with waterproof case
Our topic choice for the best GoPro alternative this year is the Insta360 One RS, a versatile and incredible action camera.
It actually comes with interchangable camera modules, so you can use it as either a 4K or 360 camera, depending on what you need.
The 4K Boost module offers up to 60fps, as well as a 6K widescreen mode so you can produce cinematic videos. This is an especially great feature if you’re a YouTuber or filmmaker, or simply love recording your adventures in HD!
Meanwhile, the dual-lens 360 module is great for getting into 360-degree videos. You can easily reframe the clips to 16:9 ratio or keep them as is, thanks to the Insta360 Studio app.
There’s a horizon levelling tool you can use to create the most seamless and stable end result.
Regardless of the mode you’re using, rest assured that you’ll get crisp and clear footage. The FlowState stabilisation is useful for eliminating camera shakes.
Granted, the mic performance is nothing outstanding, but it’s pretty good and will serve you well for the average need.
All in all, if you want an action cam that can take high-resolution photos as well as videos, we can highly recommend the ONE RS.
Weight: 75 g
Image resolution: 20MP
Video resolution: 4K (30fps)
Battery: 90 minutes
Water resistant: only when with housing
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly GoPro alternative that’s still reliable, try the Akaso Brave 7 LE.
It comes with dual color displays, an impressive 90-minute battery, 4K resolution at 30fps, and time lapse and slow motion modes.
The 6-axis image stabilization acts like a gimbal and can ensure that your footage is stable and smooth, no matter how shaky your hand is.
Moreover, it offers a 170° field of view, which is really wide and great for capturing all your outdoor activities.
One of its few downsides is that the Brave 7 LE has a clunky mobile app that often has trouble pairing with the camera. So, using a USB cable might be your best bet for transferring photos and videos.
While the camera itself has an IPX7 rating, it’s also splash-proof and you need to use a housing to make it fully waterproof.
Weight: 145g
Image resolution: 12MP
Video resolution: 4K (120fps)
Battery: 75 minutes
Water resistant: 16m (60m with case)
The DJI Osmo Action 3 is one of the best high-end action cameras that’s comparable with the GoPro.
With full-color touchscreens and user-friendly interface, 16-meter waterproofing, and long battery life, it gives you everything you want in an action cam.
The 4K resolution and 155° super-wide field of view are great, while the sleek design is a huge plus too.
The Osmo Action 3 also has a new quick-release design that allows you to easily and quickly switch between horizontal and vertical shooting.
Not to mention the smart color temperature sensor that can automatically adjust white balance and AE, even when you use it underwater.
Finally, we love its rugged construction that can withstand as low as -20° C or -4° F. Perfect to document your winter skiing trips!
Weight: 101 g
Image resolution: 12.4 MP
Video resolution: 4k (30 FPS)
Battery: 90 minutes
Water resistant: IPX7 standard (1M for 30 mins)
One of the best things about the OCLU Action Camera is its flat, aerodynamic design with a screen on top of it. This means it’s our number one choice for capturing moments from tight spots.
We’re talking about fitting the camera underneath a skateboard or helmet visor! You can get unique angles with this camera. It’s a great camera to have for adventures to exotic countries like Bali.
On top of that, it features amazing 4K video quality and is lightweight. The Live Cut feature is quite impressive, which lets you keep only the best scenes from your trips. Yes, that means you won’t end up with winding videos and can maximize the storage space.
It’s easy to use, durable, sleek, and extra versatile. In short, everything you love from a GoPro. Not to mention that it comes with a travel case and protective microfiber bag.
You can shoot at 120fps on 1080p, but only 30fps at 4K. Meanwhile, the integrated smartphone app is amazing because you can choose from a range of shooting modes!
While this camera comes with image stabilization, it’s nowhere as impressive as some other action cameras. On the other hand, it does pick up much less wind noise on average.
Another advantage of this action camera is that it is compatible with tons of accessories and mounts from OCLU.
Weight: 0.917 oz.
Image resolution: 2560x1440
Video resolution: 2560x1440@50fps
Battery: 150 minutes
Water resistant: 4m
Want something tiny, sleek, but powerful? The Insta360 Go 2 might be what you’re looking for.
Its POV Capture feature lets you mount this tiny and lightweight camera anywhere, including on your shirt to get the perfect perspective without any hassle.
It’s got multiple modes to suit a variety of scenes, from Nightlapse to 4x slow motion.
One of our favorite things about the Go 2 is the various, awesome in-box accessories you can get. From a handy magnet pendant and easy clip to a lens guard and pivot stand, you’re really getting your money’s worth with this camera!
The Charge Case is more than a case. It’s also a charger, tripod, and remote control that can capture from 10 meters away.
Plus, the app offers a useful AquaVision mode to make your hazy, underwater footage more vivid and clear.
There’s even an Auto Editing AI feature that can turn your favorite clips into an awesome video with music and transitions.
While there’s no screen display that you can quickly refer to, you can still do this through the app.
Weight: 56 g
Image resolution: 12MP
Video resolution: 4k (120fps)
Battery: 160 minutes
Water resistant: 10m
Next up is the DJI Action 2, a great alternative to the GoPro if you enjoy vlogging as it offers a front-facing OLED touchscreen and fantastic audio recording quality with a 4-mic Matrix Stereo.
The HorizonSteady real-time stabilization ensures you get smooth and steady footage, even if you’re running or dirt biking.
Its lightweight body is made of sleek aluminium alloy for a minimalist and stylish look.
We love the magnetic design that makes it super easy to attach and detach various accessories like wearable mounts and clips.
Also, the 8x slow motion is an impressive capability matched by very few others. You can achieve epic shots of your fast-paced action, including surfing and skateboarding!
The camera build itself is pretty strong, with features such as 10m waterproofing, drop-proofing, and dustproofing. Not to mention that the touchscreen is made from durable gorilla glass.
Weight: 117 g
Image resolution: 64MP
Video resolution: 4K (60fps)
Battery: minutes
Water resistant: 60m
The DJI Pocket 2 is one of the best GoPro alternatives that comes with a gimbal stabilizer while still being compact enough to fit in your pocket.
It makes sure that your footage is not only shake-free, but extremely smoot that they’re comparable with professionally shot videos!
Its 180-degree panorama mode is especially great for group shots and wide landscapes, if you’re planning to use it for travelling.
We also love the ActiveTrack 3.0, a useful tracking feature that ensures your subject remains in the shot, so you don’t have to keep looking at the camera while moving around.
Not to mention the powerful 8x zoom when you’re capturing images, which is quite rare for an action camera.
And of course, one of DJI’s innovative features is the AI Editor that can combine clips to music, complete with transitions, so that they’re immediately shareable on social media.
Weight: 81 g
Image resolution: 20 MP
Video resolution: 4k
Battery: 90 minutes of 4k recording
Water resistant: 30m with waterproof case
The Akaso V50 Pro is a wonderful product, especially considering its price range. In fact, it was once the top pick in this guide when first written a few years back.
It's now been pipped for the top spot, but is still a fantastic buy even now.
You can shoot in 4K/ 30fps, take 20MP images, and pretty much capture all of your sporty moments.
It comes complete with excellent features like image stabilization so you can have the smoothest and crispest results. Moreover, the tactile silicone chassis means there won’t be any fingerprint marks on your camera.
The large IPS touchscreen makes it easy for you to control the on-screen menus. This includes switching from the different modes (time lapse, fast motion, winter, night, etc) and resolutions.
Meanwhile, the integrated mobile app lets you control the camera and share files. While it can’t directly livestream, you can still use it as a webcam.
But the best thing about the Akaso V50 Pro is the impressive amount of accessories that comes with it. From a waterproof case, remote control, bike stand, bandages and tethers, as well as 10 mounts!
You’ll even get an extra battery and spare protective back door for the case. So, when we say this Akaso camera is worth your money, it truly is.
On the downside, this camera isn’t ideal if you’re looking for the ultimate quality photos as it can’t give you RAW files. It also uses the old-school mini USB, which can be a hassle if you’re trying to simplify your electronics...
Weight: 253 g
Image resolution: 12MP
Video resolution: 4000 x 3000
Battery: 50 minutes
Water resistant: 15m
The Olympus Tough TG-6 is exactly as its name suggests. It’s a tough and strong action camera designed to withstand the most extreme conditions.
From 15m waterproof without any housing, 2.1m shockproof, 100kgf crushproof, -10C coldproof, and anti-fogging, it’s almost literally indestructible.
The Tough TG-6 is the perfect GoPro alternative if you’re an adrenaline junkie who’s always on the move and wanting a powerful camera to document your adventures…
This is a new and more advanced rendition of the older Olympus TG-Tracker, offering added benefits like RAW photos, higher resolution, super slo-mo, and in-camera stabilization.
The in-camera panorama mode allows you to stitch multiple shots together for an impressive panoramic photograph.
Meanwhile, the advanced underwater shooting mode is a dedicated feature that can capture high-quality footage.
Overall, a truly impressive action cam with one of the toughest constructions in the industry.
Weight: 96 g
Image resolution: 12 MP
Video resolution: 4k (30 FPS)
Battery: 2 hours
Water resistant: Up to 40m with waterproof case
The Yi 4k+. o offers a lot of excellent features for nearly half the price of the GoPro (making it a much more affordable backpacking gift).
It has a superb 4K video recording, Gorilla Glass touch screen, long battery life, and beautiful image quality. Imagine, you can record in 4k for more than 90 minutes!
The Yi 4k + comes with electronic image stabilization, which although is not as professional-grade as the optical mechanism, is still very decent.
In addition to the small and compact size, we particularly love the large touchscreen on this action camera. You can use this for all the settings, image playback, and other things. The Yi 4k + is hands-down one of our top choices to document epic road trips on a budget.
On the other hand, this camera doesn’t come with any additional accessories and you have to buy a separate waterproof housing.
It does mean that the cost for this budget alternative may not be as low as it initially appears, though it will still be considerably cheaper than a GoPro.
Weight: 58 g
Image resolution: 16 MP
Video resolution: 4k (30 FPS)
Battery: 90 minutes at 1080p
Water resistant: 30m with included waterproof case
If you need an entry-level camera or the best cheap GoPro alternative, the Campark ACT74 is your answer. It features a decent build with an easy-to-use interface, and delivers up to 4K videos and 16MP photos.
Plus, this camera was one of the first to offer 4 adjustable lenses. Choose from a range of field of views, including 170°, 140°, 110°, and 70°. Yes, it means you can get both beautiful landscape shots and detailed close-ups.
We also love that Campark offers a wide selection of mounts and accessories with the camera. You will get not only a waterproof case, mounts, and adapters, but also an extra battery.
One thing we don’t like is its inability to stabilize motion blur. It’s not a problem if you’re recording on a tripod or other stable surfaces, but attaching it to a bike can result in very shaky videos.
The 4k video is also available only in 30fps, which means the resulting footage may not be the smoothest.
Overall, the ACT74 is an all-in-one purchase and a truly impressive offering for the low price it retails at.
Weight: 45 g
Image resolution: 6 MP
Video resolution: 1080p
Battery: 90 minutes
Water resistant: Splashproof
The Polaroid Cube may be an old contestant in the action camera market, but it doesn’t make it any less relevant.
It may not be the best camera if you’re looking for top notch performance to withstand extreme conditions. But it’s the perfect choice if you want something tiny, fun, and inexpensive.
True to its name, the Polaroid Cube is a perfect cube only 1.4 inches long, wide, and tall. It’s also one of the lightest cameras you can get which you can easily fit in your shirt pocket.
It comes in black, red, and blue, and features a cute rainbow design on the side. The rubber body is splashproof and can be used under light rain, though you’ll need to purchase an underwater case separately.
In terms of performance, you can get 1080p videos at 30fps, which may not be top grade but is good enough for casual footage to share with family and friends. However, the image resolution is quite poor at only 6MP.
Operation is surprisingly simple and straightforward. The Polaroid Cube has only one button, which you can press long to turn it on or off, press once to take photos, and twice to run or stop video recording.
Weight: 190 g
Image resolution: 16 MP
Video resolution: 4k (15 FPS)
Battery: 180 minutes for 1080p recording
Water resistant: 50m with supplied waterproof housing
Here’s another bullet-shaped camera for you, this time from TomTom. The Bandit is a great camera that can be used up to 50m underwater with the included housing.
It’s one of the best GoPro equivalents in terms of performance, though the weight and shape can be quite bulky than we would like an action camera to be.
Setting that aside, the build is very tough and hardy. Complete with physical buttons and an LCD display, it’s easy to set up and control.
However, the TomTom mobile app is another level in itself. It offers not only the typical remote controls and file transfer, you can use it to edit videos and store key metric datas. The built-in sensors and GPS allow you to track the speed, rotation, and even G-Force.
In terms of video quality, note that it can only capture 4K at 15 fps, which may not be the best performance out there. You might prefer to shoot at 1080p for a higher fps, and this resolution is ample for regular memory-making purposes.
On the upside, this subpar recording quality means you get an incredible battery capacity. In fact, it probably has the longest battery life out of the other cameras on our list today. At a lower resolution, you can shoot up to three hours!
Weight: 130.5 g
Image resolution: 6080 x 3040 (360 Mode)
Video resolution: 5.7k (15 FPS)
Battery: 70 minutes for 5.7k recording
Water resistant: 5m
The Insta360 One R is a unique modular camera that can record 360-degree videos. It comes in several versions, from the small 1-inch Edition, 360 Edition, to the 4K Edition. Each has its own specialties, but today we’ll talk about the 360 Edition, which can capture in 5.7k.
One might even compare the image quality you can get here with many of the best vlogging cameras.
To use it, you have to connect the camera to the core module that consists of an LCD screen with ports and buttons. Then, the combination should be connected to the battery base. You can even attach the core module in two directions for a handy selfie mode!
For the main settings, there is a micro SD card slot, USB-C port, and several physical buttons. Use the integrated app for playback, file transfers, watch tutorials, and even edit footage.
Another great thing about the Insta360 ONE R is that you can choose a range of combination packages, like the Twin or Trio Edition.
While this camera supports images in RAW files, there are often lag times between clicking the button and the camera saving it.
Weight: 120 g
Image resolution: 12 MP
Video resolution: 4k (30 FPS)
Battery: 120 minutes
Water resistant: 40m with waterproof housing
The Drift Ghost 4K can be an interesting option in lieu of the GoPro, with its wide FOV, multiple shooting modes, and 4K video recording.
It also has a unique, low-profile design that makes the camera more ergonomic, as you can hold it much like an old-school camcorder. With that said, it is still relatively lightweight and compact.
While being handheld-friendly, the Ghost 4K still offers a huge range of mounting options, which means you can still mount it on your motorbike, helmet, or any other surface.
Most importantly, this camera is perfect for your biking or cycling adventures, thanks to its rugged body and aerodynamic design. With the waterproof housing, you can also dive up to 40 meters underwater with it.
It comes with an automatic video stabilization to ensure rich details and accurate colors on the footage. However, not that it can’t work on resolutions above 1080p.
A lot of GoPro alternatives can’t give good audio performance, but this Drift camera features two microphones for improved sound quality. While it may not be as professional as a specialized vlogging microphone, you won’t pick up too much interference and background noises.
Once you’ve decided on a camera, make sure it’s easy to get compatible accessories too. Here are a few of the essential accessories you'll want to have!
Memory cards are important as they are where you store all your photos and videos. Make sure your camera has a slot for an external card, which allows you to swap out a full memory card with an empty one.
When you’re in the middle of an outdoor trip or mountain adventure, having the option to use a memory card means you will never have to miss an important photo or video opportunity.
GoPros are no doubt still the dominating brand in the action cam market. If you have a non-GoPro camera, you may want some accessories that let you attach them to a GoPro tripod. Additionally, mounts can make your camera compatible with tripods made for other types of cameras.
Every camera needs a good tripod, and it’s true for an action camera too. There are many types to choose from, like the Gorillapod. It has flexible legs which you can bend in any direction to adapt to all sorts of terrain and surface.
Meanwhile, a monopod is a versatile and compact option.that allows you to record yourself as you have fun in a court or park. When travelling, you can easily capture enchanting sunsets and sunrises in romantic spots.
If you’re a travel blogger or simply like to travel with your camera, it’s worth investing in a good carrying case; or even a camera backpack if you travel with more photography gear. Some brands will provide this with your purchase, or you may want to buy a separate one.
Not only can a carrying case protect your camera with the right padding, it features special compartments for all your cables and accessories, making them more organized.
Again, most GoPro alternatives will let you record around 2 hours continuously. That may not be enough if you’re on a long trip and don’t have the time to keep recharging the battery.
Having a spare battery that you can easily swap can prove extremely useful. Some action cameras, like the Akaso V50 Pro, come with an extra battery too.
We cannot stress the importance of stability when shooting actions and sports, as shaky footage won’t be any good to watch.
Keeping your camera steady while doing activities can be hard, which is why you need a handheld gimbal. It’s possible to use only one hand to hold the gimbal and still get smooth videos.
But for the best quality possible, check out our roundup guide on the best GoPro gimbals.
We’d personally recommend the INSTA 360 ON ERS as the best GoPro alternative you can get in 2023. You can capture 6K videos at 25 fps and astounding 48MP images with a solid image stabilization. The camera itself is small, lightweight, and has a premium feel. It is one of the few cameras out there that (for the price) can rival and even beat the spec of the latest GoPro.
The Akaso Brave 7 LE is arguably the best affordable alternative to a GoPro. This entry-level camera is cheap but has some impressive features, including 4K videos and 20MP still images. Weighing just 75g and having a 90 minute battery life; at less than half the price of a GoPro; it really is the go-to choice for most.
Yes. The DJI Osmo Action 3 arguably offers not only a performance that equals the GoPro, but perhaps even rivals it. It delivers stunning 4K video at 120 fps and a decent photo quality. Its RockSteady image stabilisation system is also as good as the one in GoPro cameras.
One of its unique selling points is the dual LCD display, with a 1.4-inch front screen that you can use when taking selfie footage. This camera even supports customized settings and features a Quick Switch button.
All of the cameras we’ve listed so far are similar to a GoPro. In terms of performance, the TomTom Bandit delivers stunning videos and photos at only a fraction of the price. Meanwhile, the Akaso Brave 7 is one of the more obvious knockoffs of this global brand, but offers a surprisingly strong performance.
We wouldn’t say that one is better than the other because the winning factor of GoPro is their incredibly powerful brand image and reputation. On the other hand, most Akaso cameras offer a similar set of features, design, and performance at a much lower price point.
If you’re on a tight budget and looking for an entry-level action camera that can still capture your action-filled moments, Akaso would be a great option.
When it comes to popular action cameras, Akaso or DJI are probably GoPro’s biggest competitor to date. These Chinese companies have the competitive edge in terms of price, yet their cameras are surprisingly high-quality and well built, while offering most of the features of a standard GoPro camera.
We hope this guide has been useful for anyone trying to find the perfect GoPro alternative for them. We’ve tried to be as detailed and comprehensive as we can in compiling this list.
Whether you are planning to chronicle your wildest outdoor and underwater adventures, or simply looking for a cheap and fun action cam to capture your everyday moments, there should be something for you.
From the most premium options to the more budget-friendly cameras, it’s important that you know what you want an action camera for.
At the end of the day, you’re the one who can make the decision. Finding the best GoPro alternatives can be a gratifying experience.
So, let's hear what you think.
Do you know more action cameras for beginners we didn’t feature today?
Or other cameras similar to GoPro that you really like?
Simply comment down below!
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