Top 5 Best GoPro Alternatives In 2024

The finest GoPro substitutes are competitive with the popular brand in terms of technology, concepts, and value, and may even surpass it.

Although GoPro is a well-known brand, there are currently more intriguing, more reasonably priced, or just all around superior alternatives to the well-known action cameras that have become household names. Not all brands produce cameras as small, robust, waterproof, and capable of taking excellent still images and films as GoPro does. There are now several competitors in the ring.

This is a guide to the best alternatives based on value (there are undoubtedly less expensive solutions), quality (we already believe GoPro has lost ground to competitors in this space), and some interesting alternatives that might work better for you. Have you given the additional advantages of a gimbal camera for stability any thought? or a camera that rotates 360 degrees? Though the finest 360-degree camera also doubles as an action camera is listed here, we have a comprehensive guide to the top 360-degree cameras.

Many of the cameras on this list—including all of the ones my colleagues and I have tested—are models that we firmly believe are well worth their asking prices. I’ll explain why. Here, you can get a lot more functionality for a lot less money than you would pay for a GoPro, and you might even produce material that makes a splash

Top 5 Best GoPro Alternatives 2024

1.DJI Osmo Action 4

The Osmo Action 4 offers the best value for most adventurers in terms of both price and quality. Better video can be obtained since DJI invested in integrating its action camera with the largest image sensor available, instead of competing with GoPro’s 5K model. I don’t see anything wrong with this because it’s generally preferable to export stable 4K video to your editing program.

The camera can withstand a lot, including temperature fluctuations in addition to bumps and bruises, and stabilized 4K footage looks fantastic. Although it isn’t inexpensive, the only reason it is a “GoPro alternative” is because DJI won’t force you to subscribe after a year and GoPro is a more well-known brand in this market. This is the superior camera.

I was a little disappointed when DJI first moved away from the Action 2 because it seemed like the modular design was going out of style. However, the Action 2 has not only stayed available but has also had capacity upgraded, giving it a good option for body-worn cameras. Absolute quality in a GoPro-sized box is more important in this situation, and DJI is now the company to beat. Both HorizonBalancing and RockSteady generate fluid videos from intense action, and the EIS from the previous generation is still great. With up to 120 frames per second, 4K is usually the best resolution for action.

One thing that many, like myself, still find appealing about Action 4 is that it isn’t tied into any subscription services; I find subscriptions to be obnoxious and dislike having to keep paying for products that I have previously purchased. DJI continues to offer a high-quality software with remote control, firmware upgrades on a regular basis, and the ability to download and modify on the go if desired.120 frames per second or more.

2.Akaso Brave 7 LE

Budget action cameras from Akaso are still really impressive; the Brave 7 LE in particular has a ton of amazing features that are perfect for vloggers on a tight budget. It features a 6-axis stabilization mechanism that is quite good for a camera at this pricing point and records 4K footage.

Although it’s unfortunate that the 4K resolution doesn’t support 60 frames per second for fast-paced action, 30 frames per second is plenty for many vlogging needs. To be honest, I find it works for me most of the time, and I’m willing to give up some resolution when I do something more fun! I’m glad that 2.7K60 frames per second is an option instead of having to go all the way down to 1080P.

It is useful for vlogging because of the front-facing screen, but it is a little camera, so getting used to it may take some time. Remember that it has very little waterproofing without housing before you submerge it in the sea! In general, however, vloggers looking for a less expensive GoPro substitute might consider the Akaso Brave 7 LE.

DJI Action 2

Leading drone manufacturer DJI made GoPro rethink its strategy by giving its Osmo Action, the company’s first action camera, a front screen. Action 2 was a bit of a different animal when it finally arrived in 2021, although it took some time to arrive. The Action 2, which is far more than just an Osmo Action upgrade, reinvents what a GoPro-style camera may look like. It starts with a small 39x39mm square camera and lets you attach additional units for more connectivity, longer battery life, and a vlogging screen using a magnetic clip.If it isn’t already obvious, I really love this as a design concept (though it should be noted I don’t do a lot of underwater stuff). Its core cuboid body looks like a flattened GoPro Session (if anyone remembers those) but with a touchscreen.

If it’s not clear from the above, I think this is a pretty great design concept (though I don’t do a lot of underwater stuff). If anyone recalls, the flattened GoPro Session is what this device’s main cuboid body resembles, only with a touchscreen.

However, it is modular; when the battery booster is magnetically attached, the device has an output more akin to that of a conventional GoPro camera and is about the same size. Along with a bigger 1 / 1.7″ sensor, the picture stabilization options are as excellent and include a horizon leveller.

The option to wear just the camera part—which is attached to a T-shirt, for example, using a magnetic clip—is the key to this design’s flexibility. It records to internal memory (thanks to DJI’s new, greatly appreciated memory option upgrade).

The size of the primary camera unit places some restrictions on control, but the front touch-screen adapter nicely complements it, making vlogging easy. It’s not quite a GoPro Hero camera substitute, but considering its current pricing, it’s a strong contender that you should consider if you’re looking for alternative body-worn solutions like the Insta360 Go 3. Read the entire review to have a better understanding of the packages.

4.Insta360 X4

When considering the true intent of action cameras, you want a tough camera that can capture activity with ease. Remember to set fire to it. 360-degree cameras are able to record everything that happens around them, but because their lenses are oriented in two different directions, they are rather vulnerable.

With the X4, Insta360 has addressed this issue by providing detachable lens shields that allow you to protect the lenses when necessary. In addition, the case is exceptionally durable, waterproof to 10 meters, and incredibly comforting to grip. The design appears to have been improved over several generations (I say this with a hint of jealousy as someone who paid cash for an X3, but received a lengthy review for the X4)!

For most action camera tasks, the camera’s 4K60fps shooting capability with just one lens is more than sufficient if you need a “normal” action camera.

The capacity to record the entire 8K vision—an outward sphere of the view from the camera—and then reframe it is, however, the true benefit of 360 degrees. Insta360’s software is truly exceptional, and the reasonably high resolution of 8K is very helpful in this situation. Not only does it have a fantastic phone app for iOS and Android, but it also has an Insta360 Studio for Mac and PC, as well as plugins for Premiere and Final Cut Pro, so you can create material for social media practically instantly, or more carefully afterward. Compared to GoPro’s offering, the AI subject tracking is superior and saves hours of manual keyframing.

Moreover, Insta360 offers a variety of add-ons, such as the almost necessary selfie sticks (3 meters / 10 feet long) and one that lets you swing the camera at a high frame rate and combine with an app feature to produce a ‘bullet time’ effect. Additional improvements, such as the capability to link external microphones, maintain the X4 far ahead of the competition. With this camera, you should be able to tell some incredible visual stories (albeit for a little bit more money than you would have planned on spending), but it could need some extra consideration.

5.DJI Pocket 3

The Pocket 3, an incredible upgrade from the already excellent Pocket 2, is a great option if your main goal is to record action shots for vlogs and walk-and-talk videos. Its larger 1-inch image sensor eliminates worries about low light performance, and its larger screen makes composition easier.possibly have spending plans).

I included it on this list because, let’s face it, the 1-inch sensor already outperforms GoPro cameras in the specialty of vlogging. Furthermore, although the GoPro Hero 12 Black has the ability to record audio via AirPods, this feature is only available as a part of the fantastic Creator Combo bundle, which also includes a DJI Mic 2, which wirelessly records audio in up to 32 bits for both the movie and a separate track. A high-quality case, tripod mount, battery extension handle, wrist strap, dead-cat windshield for the microphone, and a wide-angle lens attachment are all included.

This is a powerful small camera for bloggers since it has class-leading video stabilization in addition to intelligent subject tracking features that are supported by a faster CPU and are rarely misled. However, the price has increased somewhat due to the upgrades made to the audio and video.

What makes the best GoPro alternative?

In addition to pricing and camera features, we took into account model weight and size when compiling our list of the top GoPro substitutes.

1. Weight and dimensions: GoPros are naturally light, compact, and inconspicuous. This allows them to be mounted in a variety of ways for you to enjoy while adventuring and prevents them from getting in the way of your activities. Therefore, we have remained with extremely portable models.

2. Cost: GoPro is a leader in the production of cameras designed for active lives, but initially, their products can be somewhat pricey. When you remove the GoPro branding, the models selected in this guide should cost less than an equivalent GoPro camera, giving you greater value for your money.

3. Camera features: The fact that a GoPro substitute still has respectable camera specifications is its most crucial attribute. To make sure any options are adequate, we examined stabilization methods, resolution, video features, and battery life.

What is the difference between a GoPro and an action camera?

Generally speaking, GoPros and some of the greatest action cameras are identical, save for the brand name. GoPro has established a solid reputation for producing high-quality goods and offering top-notch photo and video quality. While many of the entrants to the action camera industry provide equally good goods, they haven’t yet developed the same level of brand recognition as GoPro.

FAQs

Q: On what basis were the best GoPro alternatives picked for 2024?
Top GoPro alternatives have been chosen on such parameters as video and image quality, stabilization performance, durability, user-friendliness, battery life, and other features. Each of these alternatives has its special strengths to cater to all needs and preferences.

Q: Can GoPro alternatives be as strong as a GoPro?
Yeah, most of those GoPro alternatives seem pretty rugged and robust, most having different levels of water resistance or waterproofing. Always do some research regarding any specific durability ratings and extra attachments for added safety.

Q: Are these GoPro alternatives close to GoPro in terms of video quality?
Most of these items on the list can provide video quality equal to, or at best, very close to GoPro cameras, such as 4K resolution and very high frame rates. Each may have its strengths, like better low-light performance or wider field-of-view scenes.

Q: How is the battery life of these action cams compared to GoPro?
It varies with the model, and most of them come with a battery life similar to, or slightly behind GoPro cameras. That could depend on the configuration and the patterns of use. Many of these options also offer extended battery packs or quick swapping.

Q: Are these GoPro alternatives good for underwater photography?
Yes, most of the best GoPro alternatives are either waterproof or have waterproof cases available for underwater photography and video capturing. Note their depth ratings and the kind of accessories that would work best with them underwater.

Q: Can they support external accessories like mounts and microphones?
Most of the GoPro alternatives support external accessories, from mounts to additional microphones and other enhancers. The compatibility may vary, so it’s important to check on the list of possible accessories every model provides.

Q: How does the stabilization technology in these alternatives stand next to GoPro?
Most of the best alternatives have advanced stabilizations, some of which even match or surpass GoPro. Electronic image stabilization and gimbal-like stabilization are only some of the features found in these cameras to provide smooth, steady footage.

Q: Are these alternatives good enough to be used by professionals?
Yes, many of the best GoPro alternatives are suitable for professional purposes due to their overall very good video quality and other useful features. Some models will, of course, be much better at things like 360-degree video and high-resolution slow-motion recording, depending on what you need specifically.

Q: Can any of these GoPro alternatives do live streams?
Most of the listed alternatives fully support live streaming via their respective apps or software. Be sure to check each model for its capabilities to make sure it suits your needs regarding live streaming.

Q: How do their prices compare to a GoPro?
Very varied. Some are way cheaper than GoPro cameras, while other models may be similarly priced or even more expensive. The value that is given back in the form of features and performance will be key for customers to make their decision based on budget.

Q: Where to buy these GoPro alternatives?
These GoPro alternatives can be found across retailers, online stores, and electronics shops, occasionally on the websites of the companies manufacturing them. Always check for the best prices and authorized sellers to be sure you get the real deal.