GoPro is a company and a brand that manufactures action cameras for capturing exciting moments during adventures, hiking, diving, and much more. The company’s HERO series of action cameras provide the latest high-definition quality video recording and much more control features to take your adventure experience to a whole new level. Year after year, GoPro improves its flagship HERO action camera to give its loyal users the perfect action camera. But GoPro’s HERO series is not the only action camera out there. If you’re looking for an action camera for your next beach trip, you might want to look at other options. Read on to learn the best GoPro alternatives! Must-read:
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Why go for a GoPro alternate?
There’s no doubt that GoPro is the perfect action camera. Its shots are amazing and always capture the essence of your thrilling and fun experience. However, the only concern with the emerging generation of GoPro is its pricing. Of course, the product’s price is high based on the aspects of quality, various camera modes, image stabilization, water resistance, device protection, and accessories they provide. It’s understandable that some users now look for cheaper GoPro alternatives that still give the must-have features of an action camera. What is the alternative to the pricing aspect of action cameras? Should we compromise on the quality just because the price is too high? Are other companies or brands manufacturing quality action cameras at affordable prices? Well, thankfully, GoPro isn’t the only action camera manufacturer available on the market. There are other brands, such as Akaso, Vermont, that manufacture action cameras like GoPro at affordable costs. Yet, these action cameras deliver good quality video recording and image capturing in different modes on different terrains, such as skiing, gliding, skateboarding, scuba diving, etc. Related reads:
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5 Best GoPro Alternative Cameras
1. AKASO EK7000
Weight: 61g Waterproof: 40m Resolution: 16MP
The best seller’s action camera in the category of GoPro alternative is the Akaso EK7000. Priced five times less than that of an actual GoPro, this action camera fulfills the purpose of an action camera without any doubt. One of the few action cameras that come with CMOS sensor technology in this particular price range. The product comes with 4K video recording enabled with a remote control that enables users to capture images and start/stop video recording. Pros:
Wireless remote control 98 feet waterproof 170o wide angle lens Data sharing through WiFi with a range of ten meters Accessories include a bicycle stand, helmet stand, waterproof case, and protective case Touch screen display Access pictures and videos through the Akaso app on your smartphone or tablet
Cons:
No front-facing display Only 1X optical zoom Low mic quality
2. Surfola SF230
Weight: 2.4 ounces Waterproof: 131 ft Resolution: 20MP
The SF230 is a multi-functional action camera that can be used during adventures, as a dash cam, and also as a webcam for your computer. This action camera provides wide-angle video capture varying from 90o, 120o, and 170o. All files are easily transferable through the “Live DV” app provided by the manufacturer. Pros:
Three-axis anti-shake stabilization EIS Remote control External microphone with good quality 131 feet waterproof Multiple recording modes- Lapses, burst mode 20MP quality pictures Mobile Live DV app Accessories that are included in the box are extremely helpful Screen flip feature
Cons:
No HDMI cable was provided for data transfer. 4K recording does not involve EIS support No touch screen provided
3. COOAU-CU-SPC06
Weight: 15.9 ounces Waterproof: 131ft Resolution: 4K 30FPS 20MP
There’s so much that you can do with this action camera. This GoPro alternative action camera has EIS enabled even in 4K. Also, have fun designing your photos with the pre-installed image effects. Moreover, the COOAU camera comes along with twenty accessories with the product. Furthermore, this action camera offers a self-timer to control recording, a high-quality microphone that is 1.48 meters long, a touchscreen display, and much more! Pros:
Waterproof up to 131 feet HDMI data transfer Maximum aperture 2f Various shooting modes – Slow-motion, loop recording, time-lapse, burst photo, etc Accessories that are compatible with action cameras similar to even a GoPro
Cons:
No zoom option It can’t be used as a webcam SD card issues in some cases Absence of front-facing display
4. Dragon touch vision 3
Weight: 5.3 ounces Waterproof: 100 ft Resolution: 4K video resolution and 20MP photos
In what ways is the Dragon touch action camera a GoPro alternative? Well, it offers features at par with the GoPro, including 4K video recording at 30 fps, adjustable viewing angles, compact design, and more. It just goes to show that this camera is a very good alternative. Recording sports sessions and reviewing the practice session from the point of view angle helps players improve their gameplay strategies. If you’re looking for thrilling adventures, this action camera should always be in your backpack! Pros:
100 feet waterproof 4X zoom option Image stabilization Multiple shooting modes 2-inch touch display Accessories provided Wireless wristband remote control Wide angle up to 170o
Cons:
Mono audio recording No front-facing display
5. PROGRACE Kids action camera
Weight: 1.6 ounces Waterproof: 100ft Still Resolution: 1080P/30fps videos and 5MP photos
You may find that some action cameras are hard to navigate. Apparently, most of them are not the most user-friendly. So, you may want an action camera that’s both safe and easy to operate, even for your kids. Then opt for the PROGRACE kids action camera. This one is suitable for kids between three to ten years old. Moreover, the PROGRACE kids camera comes with a CMOS sensor, 1080 HD 30 fps video recording, 5MP image capture, and auto power saving mode. You may find that it doesn’t have the best features at par with the GoPro or its other alternatives; however, it’s a start if you want to gift your kids with an action camera. It’s safe to say that this GoPro alternative camera is made for kids. And with its best features, this camera will give you a run for your money! Pros:
Automatic face recognition 4X zoom option Pre-installed filters for kids Waterproof up to 100 feet Bicycle and helmet mount Multi-functional shoot modes LCD display
Cons:
Charging time takes 2-4 hours The quality of the images is not at an expert level A waterproof protective case requires proper cleaning to prevent the device from rusting and circuit failure.
6. DJI Action 2
Weight: 61g Waterproof: 40m Resolution: 4k video/16MP
Designed as a tiny camera in a square shape, the DJI Action 2 can be considered one of the best alternatives for GoPro cameras. Discussing its design, the camera has a magnetic attachment that helps you to handle the additional units, and makes your process easier. Being waterproof, the camera is great for shooting aquatic life. You are free to use the camera at a depth of 10 meters, which can be extended to 60 meters if you use the waterproof case. Creating impressive content becomes easier through the camera because of the AI editor from the DJI Mimo app. The camera is rich in its quality providing 4K videos with 120fps. Pros
Has a dual-screen interface Allows live streaming Provides a compact unit Waterproof
Cons
Doesn’t allow 5k videos
7. DJI Pocket 2
Specifications:
Weight: 117g Waterproof: No Resolution: 4k video/16MP
If you are a vlogger who doesn’t care much about waterproof features, the DJI Pocket2 can be a great solution. Having an ultrawide lens, this camera also has great external features. Along with the motorized stabilization of the camera, it is capable of long-exposure videos. The camera has a sensor of 1/1.7 inches, making it worth 4k/60fps videos and 64mp photos. It mostly comes with a creative combo of a tripod, wrist strap, and wide-angle lens. You can even edit and combine your clips with the AI editor provided by the camera. Even though it shows an average performance with noise issues in low light, the camera can compensate with all other features.
Pros
Great tool for vloggers Portable Effective stabilization
Cons
Average performance in low light Lacks waterproof features
Noticeable brands like GoPro at similar prices and close performances
Brands such as Akaso, Insta 360, and DJI have also manufactured GoPro alternative action cameras. Action cameras from these brands have specifications at par with GoPro, such as:
5K video recording Flow-state stabilization Dual displays Point tracker Voice control Night vision
Frequently asked questions
Lights, Camera, Action, and Ski!
Action cameras like GoPro have made a huge impact on this generation, inspiring them to create content while experiencing adventure and thrill simultaneously. While professional content creators and videographers stick with GoPro, one can easily choose between the alternate options that are available now. I hope you find this article helpful in your journey toward creating amazing content with great picture quality using GoPro alternative cameras. Do let us know your thoughts and reviews of these products. Tell us what you would pick from the list provided in this article! Suggested reads:
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