By Jordan Hetrick, Bestselling Author & Action Camera Expert
The world of action cameras has changed A LOT since GoPro was the only name in the game. That’s when I started writing books to help you guys with your GoPro cameras.
As we move into 2025, the competition is fiercer than ever which means you have more choices.
Today, I’m breaking down my favorite features of the best action cameras in 2025 for adventure enthusiasts, vloggers, and professional content creators.
From the tried-and-true GoPro Hero 13 Black to the cutting-edge Insta360 X4 360 camera, these are the best action cameras on the market. There is something for everyone, so if you are still trying to decide, here are the reasons I would recommend each one!
All three of these action cameras have a few features in common:
· Wireless Mic Compatibility. They can all connect to the DJI Mic 2, which has become the action cam industry standard.
4k @ 120 FPS Video Resolution: This has become the standard for 4k super slow motion and all cameras can record in this resolution.
In-Camera stabilization: One of the most important features of an action camera is solid stabilization for recording handheld shots and action. All of these cameras have comparable stabilization, although the Hero 13 is still the best.
Waterproof Design: All three of these action cameras are waterproof to a minimum of 10 meters without an additional case. The DJI Action 5 goes deepest with a depth rating of 20 meters.
Now, here is what sets them apart! (This is just a brief rundown of the features since these cameras are packed. Once you decide, my books cover all of the features for each camera)
1. GoPro Hero 13 Black: The Ultimate All-Rounder and Leader of the Pack
The GoPro Hero series has long been the gold standard for action cameras, and the GoPro Hero 13 Black is no exception. With each new version, GoPro refines its already impressive capabilities, and the Hero 13 is packed with features that make it perfect for both casual users and professionals alike.
Key Features:
HyperSmooth 6.0 Stabilization: This updated version of GoPro’s famed stabilization system is smoother than ever, making it perfect for capturing fast-paced, bumpy action shots, from mountain biking to surfing.
5.3K Video Resolution @ 60fps: The Hero 13 Black can shoot in stunning 5.3K resolution, offering incredibly sharp, high-quality footage for those who want to take their content to the next level. So far, the other action cameras don’t offer slow motion frame rates (60FPS) in any resolution higher than 4k like the Hero 13 does.
New HB-Series Lenses: The Hero 13 offers several add-on specialty lenses, including a macro lens (for close-up shots), an Ultra Wide lens (for amazing stabilization and horizon leveling in an ultra wide field of view), an Anamorphic lens (for cinematic shots), and smart ND Filters. Plus a built-in sensor automatically detects which lens you are using.
What You May Not Like:
When recording in high resolution in the wrong environments, the Hero 13 will overheat more quickly than the competitors. If you are recording for long stints indoors, you may want to consider this. When recording outdoors with airflow, you shouldn’t experience any overheating problems.
Some people have had issues with reliability which has led to the rise of competition.
The Hero 13 is the worst out of the top 3 when filming in low light conditions.
· Plus, no quick charging means the batteries take longer to charge than the competition.
Why I Love It:
GoPro has long been the leader in the action camera world, and the Hero 13 Black lives up to that reputation. Its combination of image quality and colors straight out of the camera, the best stabilization and Horizon Leveling, and ease of use makes it the best option for people who want a camera that excels in every aspect of adventure filming, from extreme sports to travel vlogging. With the Hero 13, I can post the videos straight out of the camera and the colors look great.
The Hero 13 also offers several modes that the other cameras don’t, such as Star Trails and Light Painting that are processed right in the camera.
The GoPro Hero 13 on Amazon (Click the link for the current price)
2. Insta360 Ace Pro 2: The 8k Flip Screen Action Camera with Lots of Smart Features
If you're looking for versatility, the Insta360 Ace Pro 2 is a game changer with a few unique features, notably a flip screen, low light capabilities and 8k video resolution. The Ace Pro 2 is also packed with a lot of smart features, such as Gesture Control and AI Highlights.
Key Features:
8K Resolution (30fps): The Insta360 Ace Pro 2 impresses with its 8K video resolution, which is plenty for professional-grade footage. The dynamic range is rich, and color reproduction is top-notch.
Clarity Zoom: With the 8k sensor, the Ace Pro 2 has a feature called clarity zoom, which allows you to zoom in 2x when recording in 4k. This feature sets is apart since you can capture a tighter field of view.
Flip Screen: This is really a game-changer when it comes to composing your action cam shots, especially for cinematic shots. The flip screen lets you see what your are filming while the other action cameras leave you guessing.
Windproof Microphone: The Ace Pro 2 has a small foam windscreen inside the removable microphone cover. Works great for high-wind audio.
Low Light Video: The best of the three cameras in low light my opinion with up to 4k @ 60 frames per second in the low light video mode.
Quick Charging: The camera batteries recharge really quickly, but they don’t last as long as the DJI Action 5 Pro.
What You May Not Like:
· The Ace Pro 2 is the largest of the three leading action cameras.
· The Windproof Microphone is supposed to be removed before going in the water, so that’s one extra thing to think of while filming. It’s okay if you leave it on, but you’ll need to let it dry out afterwards for clear audio.
Why I Love It:
I love being able to look at the flip screen while recording different angles, such as low angles. The image quality is great straight out of the camera- I can post it without any color grading. 2x Clarity Zoom is unique amongst the action cameras for tighter composition.
The Insta360 Ace Pro 2 on Insta360.com
3. DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro: The Smallest, Longest Battery Life, and Most Reliable
DJI's Osmo Action series has always been a strong competitor to GoPro, and the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro raises the bar yet again with impressive specs, a robust design, and an emphasis on smooth, cinematic footage.
Key Features:
Front and Rear Screens: The dual screens allow for easy framing whether you’re shooting yourself or capturing action from a distance. The front-facing screen is perfect for vloggers, but both screens remain active while filming, which is an upgrade from the Action 4.
Pro Audio: The Action 5 Pro can record two audio tracks, each from a separate DJI Mic 2, which is a clear winner for interviews and multi-subject videos.
Battery Life. The Action 5 Pro has the longest battery life with quick recharging, so this camera always has battery when you need it.
Size. The Action 5 Pro is the smallest of these three top action cameras, for those of you who need the smallest, pro-level action camera.
No Overheating. Out of the top 3 action cameras, the Action 5 Pro will record the longest without overheating.
What You May Not Like:
· Although there are a lot of color option available, the Action 5 Pro usually needs some color grading after filming. The colors just aren’t quite as rich as the competitors.
· The photo quality is not as great as the video quality, so if you are looking to take both video and photos, one of the other cameras might be a better option.
Why I Love It:
The DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro is a fantastic option for creators who want smooth, cinematic shots with a rugged, easy-to-use design. The front and rear screens are ideal for vlogging, and the image quality holds up in nearly any environment. Whether you're capturing fast-paced action or sweeping landscapes, the Osmo Action 5 Pro is built to deliver stunning results. This camera is extremely reliable and easy to use in a small package!
The DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro on Amazon
BONUS: Best 360 Camera of 2025: Insta360 X4
While traditional action cameras are perfect for those looking to capture everything with one lens, 360 cameras offer a whole new level of creativity and immersion. The Insta360 X4 stands out as the best 360 camera of 2025 for its combination of high resolution, portability, and user-friendly design.
Key Features:
8K Resolution (30fps) in 360 Video: The Insta360 X4 boasts incredible 8K video resolution, ensuring that even the most detailed 360 footage looks sharp and vibrant. This makes it a perfect choice for both casual content creators and professionals and allows you to pull out high quality 4k traditional videos.
FlowState Stabilization: Insta360’s FlowState stabilization works wonders in 360-degree mode, ensuring that even the most extreme action shots are smooth and watchable.
Invisible Selfie Stick: The X4 utilizes the famous “invisible selfie stick” feature, allowing users to create completely seamless footage where the selfie stick vanishes, giving the effect of floating cameras.
Compact and Portable: The X4 is small and lightweight, making it easy to carry on any adventure without taking up too much space.
Waterproof to 10 meters: Just like the Ace Pro 2, the X4 is built for the outdoors and can handle wet environments without compromising performance. However, when going underwater, use the Invisible Dive Case for in-focus shots with the invisible selfie stick effect.
Why I Love It:
The Insta360 X4 is the best 360 camera available because it combines cutting-edge video quality with a sleek, portable design. Whether you’re capturing panoramic landscapes, action sports, or immersive vlogs, the X4 offers a unique way to tell your story. With FlowState stabilization and invisible selfie stick technology, your 360-degree footage will look like nothing else on the market.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right action camera for your needs in 2025 depends on what you’re looking for—whether it's the versatility of 360-degree shots, the raw power of 8K video, or ultra-smooth stabilization for extreme sports. The GoPro Hero 13 Black, Insta360 Ace Pro 2, and DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro all have their unique strengths, and each is capable of producing cinematic, high-quality footage.
For those looking to step into the world of 360 video, the Insta360 X4 is the ultimate choice, offering exceptional resolution and stabilization. Whichever camera you choose, you’re sure to find a tool that will take your content to new heights in 2025.
And don’t worry, if you need help learning how to use any of these cameras, I have a useful book for each one plus lots of videos on my YouTube Channel.
Jordan Hetrick is a best-selling author, tech reviewer, and passionate filmmaker. With over a decade of experience reviewing cameras, drones, and gear, Jordan is dedicated to helping creators choose the best tools to bring their vision to life.
*Some of the links may be Amazon affiliate links, which I receive a commission for at no extra costs to you. Thanks!