gopro lcd touch screen review made in china

For those wondering what gopro cameras THIS specific kit is for, it"s for the hero 3+/hero 4. It mounts to the back of the 3+/4 as pictured and comes with 3 back doors for the hero 3+/4 housing. 3 doors included; 1 skeleton(open to touch the screen directly), 1 waterproof touch case(has a thin plastic membrane in the back to touch the screen with but is only waterproof to 3m/10"), and the full waterproof back(functions as normal waterproof back. screen not touchable but is view-able). the extra side button is for turning the display on, playback mode, and off. overall it"s very easy to use and go through menus to change settings.

I like that I can now frame my shots better and see what I"ve recorded. it adds some thickness to the camera but i"m not concerned about it. I"d only use to it line up shots and see how they came out. it doesn"t need to be on all the time... to conserve battery life. I don"t know how it effects battery life yet, but i"m not too worried about that. I use a telesin 1300mAh/4.81Wh aftermarket battery with the gopro hero 3+ factory(1180mAh/3.885Wh) battery as backup with my 3+ silver.

"The LCD Touch BacPac backdoor has a thin plastic film across the back that lets you use the BacPac"s touch functionality even while in the housing. The backdoor"s thin plastic film can however be damaged if there is a big difference in air pressure between the inside and outside of the waterproof housing. It"s important that you are aware of the conditions that can cause this, so that you take the necessary precautions to prevent damage to the film.

If you plan to use the camera in any such scenarios, we recommend that you do not use the LCD touch door, but rather the fully sealed waterproof door or skeleton back door.

Kit comes with a short mount extension. Out of the box gopros come with a 90 degree turned extension. This one is straight. Also, double-tapping the screen goes between live view and playback. Holding the side display button for 3 seconds turns it off.

When the Drift HD 170 (review) was released, it set a new standard for motorcycle and action sports video cameras, with its live view, built-in speaker and easy-to-use menu system.

It was an instant favorite — and it just as instantly made the GoPro HD (and its variants) seem as old-fashioned as DOS 2.1 (Does anyone remember DOS 2.1?).

This means that running the GoPro HD without the BacPac involves carrying the big sheet of folded GoPro instructions or a cheat sheet to remember all the cryptic commands on the tiny LCD panel in front of the camera.

Not perfect, mind you, but the small rectangular shape and the relatively large array of mounting options for the GoPro HD Hero probably make it one of the better/best video cameras for mounting on a helmet or a motorcycle.

That 1980’s style LCD screen on the front was holding the GoPro back from being a favorite motorcycle videocam though. So when GoPro announced the new BacPac system, I was all ears.

We ordered one up asap and I’m happy to report that it’s brought the GoPro HD up to the top o’ the heap. I did ask permission to change my mind, right?

The GoPro BacPac “System” currently consists of the GoPro BacPac LCD, the subject of this review, and the GoPro Battery BacPac, an extended battery for the video camera.

I knew something like this was cooking, because when we first received the GoPro HD exactly 1 year ago in April of 2010, the bus connector and clip on the back of the camera were too obvious.

They were an indication that GoPro was thinking about additions to the camera, and it’s now apparent that the Hero HD was designed with these snap-on accessories in mind right from the start.

The Battery BacPac and the LCD BacPac units simply snap on to the back of the base GoPro HD Hero camera. You can use one or the other, but not both at the same time.

The GoPro LCD BacPac is a small add-on LCD screen. It provides a live view, a speaker and a menu system that means owners never have to look at that crummy monochrome 1980’s style LCD panel on the front of the camera again.

The LCD BacPac costs $79.95 list, which is fairly reasonable for what it is…until you remember that the list price of the GoPro HD Hero is already a stiff $299.99. So we’re talking $380.00, which includes some, but not all, of the mounts you’ll probably want.

Anyway, the LCD BacPac adds exactly 1 ounce (30 grams) to the GoPro HD Hero. It’s the same width and height as the GoPro camera, but it adds another 10 mm out the back.

The LCD BacPac box includes four new back covers to replace the original covers that come with the camera, which will no longer fit over the extra 10 mm.

The new back porch extension makes the camera bulkier and a touch heavier, but it doesn’t really make that much of a difference when mounting the camera on the bike or helmet.

The slide-in mount that came with the Chesty doesn’t have the right shape to fit the thicker GoPro with the BacPac, so the camera points down instead of directly ahead.

Rick sent an email to GoPro support asking if there is a new mount for the Chesty that will accommodate the GoPro HD Hero with the LCD BacPac installed and I’ll report back if we hear anything.

For owners of the older versions, like ours, a firmware upgrade may be necessary. This was only slightly tricky — my advice is to definitely watch the two videos on the GoPro firmware upgrade page. Watch them twice — really.

GoPro doesn’t say when the HD Hero video cameras with the new firmware started shipping, but it’s easy enough to use the routine above to find out if yours has it.

By the way, the GoPro HD Hero can be used without the LCD BacPac if you wish; simply remove the BacPac, install the original-style cover and run the camera like before.

The only nit I can pick is that I would have liked more extensive menu descriptions, now that the big (relatively speaking) LCD panel is used. The text is definitely more descriptive than the two-letter acronyms used on the front panel, but it could be better.

With the new larger back cover installed for the LCD BacPac and with the camera secured inside the housing, there is a new third button for the LCD screen, which is used to access some of the menu choices on the LCD screen.

This has been mentioned before in other video camera reviews. These manufacturers insist on over-packaging their products, with wasteful and useless plastic junk.

I’m sorry to say, the GoPro LCD BacPac is yet another product in the Hall of Shame. Wads of useless junk remain after you tear your fingers apart, trying to liberate the tiny little BacPac.

Of course, the LCD should be standard equipment on the GoPro HD Hero without having to add a 10 mm extension off the back and paying 80 bucks for the privilege.

But the LCD BacPac now makes the HD Hero probably the better motorcycle video camera at this point, because the form factor is slightly more useful than the long tube-shaped Drift HD 170, at least for motorcycle use.

Neither is perfect by any means, and if the GoPro HD Hero with the BacPac could be reduced in size and offered with a few better mounting options (like a 360-degree suction cup mount), perfection might be just a little closer to reality.

Another issue: I did not like the way that the battery was recharged so I bought, from an online source, a battery charger that works from wall current as well as from a 12V source as GoPro does not sell a separate charger as far as I know.

Here is hoping the next version has it built in and they get the price point WITH the screen back down to $299.00. And here is also hoping they put a better microphone on it.

You may want to try recording a video off the bike, holding the GoPro or something, just to see if you can tell what happens. Perhaps the memory card failed, burped, or the file size was too large?

In this highly documented age, action cameras have come to be quite popular. Big camera names each have their own spin on these types of cameras. One of the more, if not most, reputable ones is the Hero series from GoPro.

GoPro cameras offer excellent tech specs, features, diverse mounting capabilities, robustness, remarkable performance, and as expected, a pretty sizeable price tag. Simply put, it is not easy for everyone to get your hands on one. However, if you are looking for an action cam but do not want to lose an arm and a leg for it, fear not for there is such a thing as clones. The SJ4000 resembles the GoPro Hero 3+ so much that you can easily mistake it for one at first glance.

The form factor of the SJ4000 is very similar to the GoPro, as well as the user interface design. There are 4 buttons on this little camera – the power button situated in front, right beside the lens, an OK/trigger button on top, and scrolling (up, down) buttons on one side. The ports for the micro SD, micro USB, and micro HDMI are located on the opposite side of the scroll buttons. The battery can be accessed at the bottom by removing a (very challenging) cover. Even with the battery inserted, the SJ4000 is extremely light to the point of doubting its robustness. However, the waterproof casing seems sturdy enough to protect the camera from fair forces of impact.

The SJ4000, priced at around US$100, comes with a variety of mounts, connector converters, straps, and a waterproof casing. The mounts and converters are made of seemingly reliable plastic with steel nut and bolt connectors. The waterproof casing is designed similarly to the GoPro casing as well, including the sealing mechanism. I tested the reliability of the waterproof casing using a humidity detector placed inside it, and submerging it in water for some time. Unfortunately, the 5% and 10% indicators were triggered as shown below. The 5% and 10% indicators had started to get a pinkish tint to them.

The camera supports micro SD cards up to 32GB large. There is a micro HDMI port which is fully functional to project the screen display. The port, however, has a less than perfect fit – it can lose the HDMI cable connection in certain positions. The micro USB on the other hand fits perfectly in the port.

The preview screen is a very nice feature, and is actually a big step up from earlier models in the GoPro Hero series in this aspect. There is no need for an external device to obtain an FPV while setting up/mounting the camera.

(23) Screensavers: Switches off the preview after 1 minute of idle time or recording by default. There are 3, and 5 minute options, as well as the option to keep the preview on screen.

As I’ve said, an exhausting list of configuration options. The list is accessible after passing the video mode, the photo mode, and the review, which makes it very cumbersome to tweak settings. It forces the user to pick one setting and stick with that during the entire session of using the camera. Although, keep in mind that it is an action camera, and is pretty much how it should be used – set it up once and let it rip.

A comforting thing is the support for this camera; there are frequent firmware updates for this model (easily Googleable). My first SJ4000 unit had a white screen issue which I had replaced, but a little later, they seem to have had addressed the issue with a simple firmware update. It was released quite promptly, much to the appreciation of the users with the same bug.

https://www.gizbeat.com/4688/china-sj4000-gopro-hero-3-clone-action-cam-review/https://www.gizbeat.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/sj-4000-reviewsj4000-gopro-clone-3-450x337.jpghttps://www.gizbeat.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/sj-4000-reviewsj4000-gopro-clone-3-150x150.jpg2014-07-02T15:36:34+07:00Nicky ArriolaRecentTechaction,cam,china,clone,gopro,hero,review,sj4000Review: SJ4000 Action Camera

In this highly documented age, action cameras have come to be quite popular. Big camera names each have their own spin on these types of cameras. One of the more, if not most, reputable ones is the Hero series from GoPro.

I do like being able to view what you are shooting. I have not been much in favor of the touch screen just because of it"s small size. I guess one could use a rubber tip pen, but haven"t used or tried that. At least they made it, with forethought, to use with all 3"s and 4"s.

GoPro"s latest fleet of little action bricks are fortified with several advanced features that cannot be found elsewhere in the market. The GoPro Hero 3+ Black Edition ($399.99) is the newest flagship model, replacing the GoPro Hero 3 by adding some key upgrades. While the GoPro Hero 3+ Silver Edition ($299.99) and Hero 3 White Edition ($199.99) have both been upgraded, it"s the Hero 3+ Black Edition that really showcases all the brand has to offer. Having owned the first HD Hero and Hero2, I wanted to know if the Black Edition was worth the extra cash, so I spent some quality time testing the camera in a variety of environments.

The GoPro Hero 3+ Black Edition shares many similarities with its predecessor, the Hero 3. Although the Hero 3+ may seem like an incremental upgrade, there are a number of subtle changes that make this action cam stand out. First off, it"s 20% smaller and lighter than the first GoPro Hero and Hero2, measuring 2.30 x 1.55 x 0.08 inches (5.8 x 3.9 x 2 cm) and weighing 2.6 oz. (28g). Now while those physical stats remain identical to the Hero 3, the Hero 3+ ships with a smaller housing, with a streamlined lens covering without bolts, and devoid of the slide lock mechanisms. The resulting package is more compact and easier to access. The Hero 3+ also has slightly larger buttons.

GoPro also improved the lens of the Hero 3+, making it sharper and exhibit less artifacts. The microphone is improved to pick up on more subtle sounds and improve wind noise reduction. The Hero 3+ Black Edition"s built-in Wi-Fi has also been boosted to 4x faster speeds with a greater range, and the battery life has been increased by 30%. The Hero 3+ Black Edition also introduces SuperView FOV, which is available in select capture resolutions. SuperView is the widest recording angle GoPro has offered to date (I have samples later on in the article). Auto Low Light is a new feature that cuts the frame rate in half when the camera detects lower light levels.

The GoPro Hero 3+ Black Edition carries over the same 4K video resolution from the Hero 3 Black, which is roughly four times the resolution of 1080 Full HD. 4K is where most televisions and programming are headed to, and GoPro placed themselves at the head of the game by incorporating the format into a wildly popular camera that is now smaller than it ever was. The Hero 3+ Black Edition also has a maximum still image resolution of 12MP and 30fps burst rate, which is beyond the 3+ Silver and 3 White"s capabilities. The latter two are not capable of 4K video recording either. Keep in mind that the 12MP still-resolution is native, not interpolated, so it"s a true representation of pixels.

And while all three new GoPros come with built-in Wi-Fi that"s 4x faster, the Black Edition is the only model to ship with a Wi-Fi remote. However, I don"t think that"s a deal-breaker because the GoPro app is far more user-friendly and quick than the remote. Just the fact that Wi-Fi is finally built-in is a win. With the older models, I had to use the Wi-Fi back, which prevented me from using a battery back or LCD back if I wanted remote functionality.

Since the GoPro Hero 3+ Black Edition is 20% smaller and lighter than the original GoPro Hero and Hero2, I was able to enjoy the minor benefits. I usually mount the GoPro to my motorcycle and hockey helmets, and the first two models make it easier to remember that they are strapped to the top of your head, thanks to their bulk. This is particularly evident while turning my head. While the Hero 3+ is not a prodigious reduction in bulk and size, it was definitely noticeable, and certainly more neck-friendly. The size reduction renders the Hero 3+ half the thickness of the first two models, but it retains the same height and width. The newly slimmed-down external housing on the Hero 3+ is the most compact and easiest to access housing yet. The latch mechanism is similar to the first GoPro models, requiring a simple flip lock to be engaged and disengaged to access the camera. The Hero 3 case has a convoluted series of slide lock buttons that made accessing the camera a royal pain. So, overall size and weight is very impressive compared to all previous models.

Now, this size reduction does come at a price. The Hero 3+ records to MicroSD cards, just like the Hero 3. I am not a huge fan of MicroSD cards because I lose things easily, and it"s not fun to scour a dirt bike trail for an hour looking for a minute plastic chip. I also noticed the omission of the 3.5mm audio jack, which is something offered on the GoPro HD Hero2.

The GoPro Hero 3+ has only two terminals: USB and HDMI. Both terminals and the MicroSD card slot are covered by a rubberized flap that matches the cross-hatched texture bordering the camera. Unfortunately, the terminal cover is not tethered to the body of the camera, so it popped off and sailed across the room the first time I removed it. It resurfaced two weeks later while digging through some photography equipment. So, for the next model, GoPro needs to tether that thing.

Despite the slim down, GoPro managed to cram an 1180mAh battery inside the Hero 3+, and promised a longer battery life compared to the Hero 3. I put this to the test by recording continuously at 1080p/24fps until the battery died. The GoPro Hero 3+ lasted a full 2 hours and 14 minutes. After researching many accounts of battery life on the Hero 3, my understanding is that it usually croaks at around 1 hour 35 minutes, so the Hero 3+ is a bit of an improvement as far as battery life goes. Of course, when using the Wi-Fi functionality, the Hero 3+ exhibits rather limited battery life. After using the Hero 3+ tethered to the GoPro application on my iPhone, I was down a battery bar after a half hour.

Another area of improvement is Wi-Fi range and speed. GoPro claims a Wi-Fi range of up to 600 feet with the included Wi-Fi remote and a more limited range with the GoPro application. I got about 145 feet of Wi-Fi range using the GoPro application, but did not test the full range of the remote. However, in my experience, I never lost connection with the Wi-Fi remote, and I have not found an application yet where I would need to be two football fields away from the action. Regardless, the Wi-Fi connection was strong and did not falter. I could keep my phone in my pocket while using the GoPro and it remained connected. Setting up is a snap as well, as the Hero 3+ only emits its own Wi-Fi network that is easily joined by a smart device in a matter of seconds.

The choice between the GoPro application and the Wi-Fi remote was a no-brainer for me. While the remote has its advantages in the range and battery life department (you can save your phone"s juice), the GoPro application is just too pleasant to use, especially after enduring years of clunky GoPro menu systems on a monochromatic LCD screen smaller than a postage stamp.

With the GoPro application, I could make nearly every camera setting with a tap. The GoPro application also gave me a live preview of the camera, so I knew exactly how to set the angle for maximum coverage. One caveat is that the live preview is only available in select capture modes, so gigantic resolutions like 4K are not possible to preview. I could also watch what I shot on my phone, power the camera on and off, and start and stop recording, all from my iPhone. Other useful features like battery level status, SD card capacity, camera locator (prompts GoPro to beep if lost), were welcome additions, and I decided the GoPro application would be accompanying me on all of my adventures. Of course, I"ll need a backup battery pack for the GoPro and charging stick for my phone in order to make it through a full day.

The improved microphone on the GoPro Hero 3+ is twofold. First, its overall pickup quality is said to be improved, with heightened sensitivity to delicate sounds and nuance. Secondly, the wind noise reduction is apparently improved. The latter is a big one, as there"s nothing more vexing than sifting through hours of motorcycle footage with the deafening shrill of wind prompting you to reach for another aspirin. I"ve always wanted more engine sound, less wind noise.

My first test was general audio quality. What could be better than pounding on the drums? I tested the GoPro Hero 3+ with it mounted to my head in the case, and then again sitting stationary removed from its case. What I found was that in or out of the case, the GoPro Hero 3+ had some difficulty with bass, primarily during a thunderous cacophony. However, treble sounds like cymbals and snare hits were crisp and clear, particularly with the Hero 3+ outside of its case. On the in/out of the case debate, I found the sound to be a bit crisper when the Hero 3+ was removed from the case, but it was not a huge difference. So yes - small nuance sound pickup was impressive, but bass was a tad muffled. Now if only the Hero 3+ had that 3.5mm audio jack for attaching external mics.

My second test was of the wind reduction. I found a rare 45 degree window in this unrelenting New England winter and took my newly rebuilt dirt bike for a spin with the GoPro mounted to the Chesty harness. Now this was a noticeable improvement. At around 45-50 MPH amidst cold, thick air, the only audible wind noise was more of an intermittent lower toned muffling. Gone was the whistling, shrill wail-from-hell. At lower speeds, the wind noise was barely audible, and the Hero 3+ really picked up on the ring-da-ding of the two-stroke engine (which is still being broken in and sounds extra rough). I didn"t have a chance to exceed 50 MPH, and I"m really interested to see how the Hero 3+ fares at over 100 MPH on my street bike. But based on the improvement at lower speeds alone, I can project improved wind-reduction ability.

The OM 5 has a trigger, two buttons, a joystick, and a slider, amounting to fewer buttons compared with the assortment found on other gimbals we tested. And fewer buttons means a simpler learning curve, which is nice if you are picking up a gimbal for the first time and prefer to use the easier-to-decipher digital buttons in the DJI Mimo app. One button allows you to turn on the gimbal; once it’s on, you can press the button one, two, or three times to select different camera modes. Press the other button to take a photo or start recording. The joystick moves the gimbal to point the camera left, right, up, or down. The slider lets you zoom in or out without touching the phone. You can complete any other tasks by manually moving the gimbal or navigating within the DJI Mimo app.

You might not have heard of Yi Technologies before, but I suspect you’ll be hearing a lot more about them in the coming months. The Chinese company last week announced their new Yi 4K action cam, which they are firmly positioning as a GoPro Hero 4 beater. Initially details were scarce, but as the week has gone on more info has emerged. The result is a very promising set of features coupled with a rather familiar-looking design.

The lens is 177° f/2.8 wide angle which is similar to the GoPro’s. There is a 2.19 inch 640×360 touch screen on the rear of the camera that makes composing shots easier. The camera is run by an Ambarella A9SE75 CPU that is powerful, yet energy efficient. Battery life is claimed to be eight hours in standby and up to two hours of shooting on a single charge.

Yi Technologies have no qualms in directly comparing their camera to the GoPro Hero 4. They have even published a handy table that points out the screen and battery life as key differentiators.

The processor allows for built-in three axis Electronic Image Stabilization. They have published the below video on Youtube to compare it directly with a GoPro. Although this sounds like a nice-to-have option, I’m personally not that keen on electronically stabilised footage, and much prefer physical stabilisation.

Despite all the high tech stuff, perhaps the most useful improvement over a GoPro for many pros will be the addition of a 1/4 20 tripod socket on the base of the Yi. No more messing around with fiddly adapters if you don’t want to – thank you.

So what can’t the Yi do as well as a GoPro? For many pros GoPro’s Protune is essential. With it you can shoot Log and also control aspects of white balance, sharpness, exposure and ISO. The Yi doesn’t appear to have a similar mode, or a log gamma at the moment.

On pictures you can see a 1/2000th shutter speed displayed on the rear screen of the Yi, and the timelapse video clearly has slow shutter speed set, but there is no information as to whether this can be manually adjusted.

The other advantage GoPro has is the huge number of compatible accessories that work with their cameras. Gimbals, microphones, cages and filters are easy to find. If you want to do a specific task with a GoPro, the chances are that someone has made the widgets that you need to do it. Some, but not all of these gadgets will fit the 4K Yi.

The high end GoPros also have various control and triggering options through the electronic connectors on their rear which are becoming useful for VR applications. The Yi doesn’t appear to have the same level of communication.

From what we’ve seen so far it looks like an incremental improvement, rather than a genuine attempt at innovation. On paper the Yi does a number of things better than a GoPro, but it could have done so much more if the designers had been a little braver. The GoPro is a proven tool that works well and has a huge user base. It is safe to assume that the next GoPro will have all the advances seen in the Yi, and perhaps a few more. For professional users who need Protune and don’t care about saving a few bucks there is probably little reason to go with the Yi. More budget minded shooters might be seriously tempted though – and of course Yi can always drop the price further when GoPro release their next model.

The 4K Yi comes in three colours – white, black and rose gold (otherwise known as shiny pink). When the 4K Yi went on pre-order in China earlier in the month it chalked up 5,000,000 RMB ($766,600 US) of orders in less than 24 hours. If the 4K Yi works as well as its makers expect, then they could really eat into GoPro’s market dominance – let battle commence.

It used to be that if you wanted an action camera, you could choose between a GoPro… or a GoPro. Indeed, GoPro revolutionised if not INVENTED the action camera market and for a long time had the entire space all to themselves.

However, those days are now behind us and there are loads of GoPro alternatives available. The action camera market has expanded greatly and the competition has really got its act together in giving GoPro a run for its money.

So to help, we at Broke Backpacker have put together this epic guide for the best GoPro alternatives. In this bargain guide, we break down 12 unbelievable action cameras and show you why they’re great GoPro alternatives.

These are the 12 best GoPro substitutes on the market. Also, check out the end of the article where I highlight what the pros look for when buying an action camera. Some of the tips are next-level…#1 OCLU Action Camera – Best GoPro Alternative

Let’s be honest here, whilst some of these GoPro alternatives are great products, you really cannot beat the real thing. Just like with Coca Cola, the original GoPro is still the best and if you can stretch to it and find the extra bucks, may be a sound investment. A proper GoPro will serve you good for miles and miles and years and years of adventuring.

This may well be my favorite new camera I have tested this year. Why? It has all of the features I look for in a GoPro alternative and a few other unique features exclusive to OCLU.

At a fraction of the price of the current GoPro cameras, the Akaso Brave 7 LE is the latest and greatest model in the budget cam lineup from Akaso. For around $80, you get 4k recording, a remote control, dual-screen recording, and a couple of extra batteries to sweeten the deal. If you’re looking for an action camera that’s really on the cheap, then the Akaso Brave 4 LE is the best ultra-budget GoPro alternative out there!

A built-in electronic image stabilizer helps to eliminate shake and create smooth videos though the amount it does so is not as much as some other action cameras in this guide. The Akaso’s microphone is not as good as a GoPro model but over the last year, for this version of the latest Akaso camera, they have also improved the sound quality.

Construction-wise, the AkasoBrave 4 comes with a touchscreen in addition to the usual USB and HDMI ports. The camera is waterproof on its own up to 1m without a case or 30m with the included case

Thanks to its excellent construction, superb video quality, and the inclusion of several innovative features like voice recognition and informative overlays, the Garmin VIRB Ultra 30 is our choice for the best overall GoPro alternative!

Build-wise there’s little wrong with the Garmin VIRB Ultra 30. Without any extra accessories, the VIRB 30 is quite small and features a tough shell and equally resistant touchscreen.

Although not waterproof on its own, the Garmin VIRB becomes so with the addition of an external housing, which is rated at a maximum water depth of 131 feet. Amazingly, the touch screen and voice recognition controls still work with the housing installed.

In terms of video quality and recording, the Garmin VIRB Ultra delivers yet again. For the first time in the Garmin line, 4k recording possible and at 30 fps. There are several other recording options, like 1080p at 120fps, 720p at 240fps, etc. Video/image quality is superb with rich colors and excellent sharpness, perhaps even sharper than the most recent GoPro models.

The Yi 4k + can stand up to many GoPros and for almost half the price. With stellar 4k recording, a rugged touchscreen, and long battery life, this camera takes the award for best budget GoPro alternative.

On the flip side, the Yi 4k + does lack a lot of shooting modes found in GoPros though popular ones like slow-motion and time-lapses are still possible. Images taken from Yi 4k + are still very attractive and are surprisingly devoid of vignetting, chromatic aberrations, and other distortions. You can thank in-camera corrections for the lack of these tarnishes.

The Yi 4k + is built-in similar fashion to the GoPro – it’s tough, small, and somewhat utilitarian in aesthetics. What stands out though is the large touchscreen found on the back of Yi 4k +, which is where most of the camera’s settings are changed. Though responsive and gorgeous to look at, the touchscreen suffers in bright light. The inclusion of some additional mechanical controls would’ve been nice.

One of the greatest pluses to the Yi 4k + is its stellar battery life. It beats the GoPro HERO4 easily in recording times at all resolutions. The Yi 4k + can reportedly sustain 4k recording for over 90 minutes, which is fantastic.

Note that the Yi 4k + comes with no additional accessories, not even an underwater housing. You’ll have to buy everything separately, which may or may not feel defeating when buying this budget GoPro alternative.

The Sony FDR X3000R stuns with its excellent built-in image stabilization, top-of-the-line video quality, and a useful Live View Remote. Because of its stellar performance, we believe that the Sony FDR X3000R is the best premium GoPro alternative and worth the money for those willing to spend a little more.

Due to its bullet shape, the Sony FDR X3000R may not fit in the same places that smaller cubical action cameras could. The X3000R does come with a built-in tripod mount that is compatible with GoPro accessories though so there are still lots of mounting options. Note that the body itself is only splashproof and that an external case will be required for underwater use. With the case, this action cam is waterproof up to 197 ft.

The Garmin VIRB 360 offers very impressive optics. Notably, it can shoot 5.7k video, which is a greater resolution than the GoPro’s own 360 camera, the Fusion. 360 videos are crisp though still not as much as a traditional non-360 video (resolutions haven’t reached the point of rendering full 360 videos optimally yet). You can, of course, record regular 4k videos at 30 fps and 120fps at 720p with the VIRB 360, thus making it an effective action camera as well.

Build-wise, the VIRB 360 delivers in every way that Garmin action cam should. The camera is waterproof without a separate housing for up to 100 feet and is, overall, very durable. Control wise, the VIRB 360 is very straightforward, offering a series of physical buttons and an LCD screen for accessing in-camera menus.

Like the Yi 4k +, the SJCAM SJ7 Star takes much of what made GoPro successful and creates a more stripped-down, budget-friendly camera. With its competitive 4k recording and touchscreen, the SJCAM SJ7 Star is a solid competitor in the race for best action cam.

The majority of the camera’s settings and controls are found within the LCD menus that are accessed via the rear touchscreen. Though responsive, the rear touchscreen suffers from glare in bright lights, which is a common phenomenon. There is a settings button in addition to a power found at the front camera but that’s all.

Weighing in at under 2 ozs and measuring no more than an inch and half in every direction, the Polaroid Cube is one of the smallest GoPro alternatives that you can buy! With decent 1080p video recording and at a minuscule price as well, this action camera will appeal to lots of casual photographers and aspiring action camera users.

The Polaroid Cube has one button only that is used to take photos, start videos, and turn-on/turn-off the camera. There is no live view screen so you’ll be blind when shooting/recording (like the good ol’ days).

TomTom’s first foray into the action camera world is a successful one. Thanks to a rugged design, great usability, and compatibility with GoPro mounts, the TomTom Bandit is a great alternative to a GoPro and just barely misses accolades.

The TomTom shines because of its controls and connectivity. Between the on-camera buttons and the LCD viewing screen, setting up the Bandit is a snap. In-camera menus are also very easy to navigate and changing settings are very straightforward.

The Olympus Tough TG-Tracker is very straightforward and easy to use. There are multiple buttons on the camera body for changing settings and starting videos. The LCD screen flips out like most camcorders but cannot be rotated. A small LED light is also present for low light shooting.

The FOV of the Olympus Tough TG-Tracker is a whopping 204 degrees, which is even wider than the GoPro. Some users find this angle to be a bit too much as fish eyeing is very present. You can change the FOV of the TG-Tracker in the on-screen menus though these are kinda buried deep.

At 24mm (FF equivalent), the Sony DSC-RX0’s FOV is much narrower than the usual action camera. Those who hate the fisheye effect that is present in action cameras will feel much better about the RXO’s tighter, more photographer-friendly framing. Obviously though, the Sony DSC-RX0 will not be able to capture those huge scenes, the likes of which has become popular with athletes who use GoPros.

Though the DSC-RX0’s optics feel more like a conventional camera, its construction is still purely action camera. The DSC-RX0 is tiny – around the size of a GoPro – and fully waterproof. There are several ports as well that can accommodate additional accessories like a microphone, HDMI cord, and small travel tripod.

The iSaw Edge is another budget-friendly alternative to the GoPro. Like many action cameras on this list, the iSaw Edge is built very similarly to the GoPro but is offered at a much lower price.

The iSaw Edge is built very well and rivals the GoPro in ruggedness and portability. The iSaw Edge is around the same size as the GoPro both in and out of its waterproof housing. When inside of the housing, the iSaw Edge is waterproof up to 130 feet.

Overall, the iSaw Edge is very easy to use. There are three physical buttons that are used for turning the camera off/on, shooting, and changing settings – these are all very straightforward and very useful. There is a touchscreen LCD screen as well but it suffers from the usual glare that afflicts such screens.

The iSaw Edge comes bundled with a plethora of accessories for mounting purposes. Should these not be sufficient, the Edge is compatible with GoPro accessories thus expanding you accessory library greatly.

For those looking for an extremely easy action camera to use that won’t break the bank either, the Olfi One.Five is one of the most accessible action cameras out there. With very comprehensive controls and at half the price of its primary competition, the Olfi One.Five is a great alternative to a GoPro.

One of the most appealing aspects of the Olfi One.Five is its very easy-to-use controls. There are only a few buttons on the body itself and an LCD screen, which, contrary to many cameras in this guide, performs quite well in direct sunlight. The in-camera menus are very straightforward and settings are modified with ease.

Buying an action camera or GoPro alternative, for that matter, is a slightly different experience than buying a regular DSLR. Though certain features are still taken into consideration – like sensor quality, size, weight, etc – more emphasis is put on other aspects.

Below I’ve created a list of things that one should consider when buying an action camera. Take them into consideration when choosing the right GoPro alternative for you.

The highest current video recording resolution is 4k. Several action cameras have the ability to shoot 4k and, though they shoot with fewer megapixels, these videos are still gorgeous to look at. If 4k is not possible, then nearly every action camera shoots at least 1080p (HD quality), speaking for the ones in this article at least. Think about whether or not 4k is necessary in the first place as well – if your videos are just put on a 1080p screen, then 4k is worthless.

Frame rate (FPS) is something else that one should consider when buying the best possible GoPro alternative. 30 fps is the standard for most cameras these days and is used most frequently. 25 fps, once the industry standard for cinematography, creates a lovely “motion picture” look. If one intends to catch some very intense action scenes or even slow-motion videos, then they’ll have to crank up the fps – 60 fps, 120 fps, and 240 fps are all becoming common features and will create smoother slow-motion videos as the fps increases.

The size and weight of an action camera is pretty straight-forward. The smaller and lighter it is, the more useful it is. Be careful when buying a cheap GoPro alternative – many are built from less reliable materials and are, thus, more prone to breaking.

Touch screens are becoming increasingly common and are usually quite useful. These eliminate the need to have and use manual controls on the camera. Of increasing occurrence are voice controls, which, though in their fledgling years and not totally effective yet, are still an inspiring step in the right direction.

All of those 4k and slow-motion video means jack if you’re camera runs out of battery after only a few moments. Nothing is more frustrating than filming some amazing, action-packed scene, only to have your action camera die right at the best part. How long the battery lasts for your GoPro alternative is thus one of the most important aspects that you need to consider.

Most action cameras last anywhere between 1 and 3 hours if recording continuously. Most manufacturers will withhold official battery lives for whatever business reasons as well so judging an action camera based upon official numbers can be tricky. Best thing is to just listen to reviews and see what the consensus is.

Depending on your intended activity – i.e surfing, traveling with a drone, mountain biking – you’ll need to consider the size, weight, and shape of the camera as well and if the proper mount is available. Each brand produces its own mounts and accessories so be sure to check their catalogs. Some cameras may even be compatible with GoPro’s own extensive line thus poaching the competition. Several other third parties produce mounts and accessories as well that may be compatible with your GoPro alternative.

At the end of the day, it’s all about what you’re willing to spend on a GoPro alternative. Thankfully, action cameras come in many shapes and sizes these days and at many different price points. You can, with research, find the perfect action camera for you and at the price you want to pay.

So there you have them – the best GoPro alternatives of 2022! Over the course of 12 different action cameras, we’ve covered nearly every basis from more budget-friendly selections to upgrades to even a 360 camera. If you can take anything away from this guide it’s that, whilst GoPros are still good cameras, you don’t have to settle for them to take great adventure videos! Consider your options wisely and then invest in the perfect GoPro alternative for you.

If you asked me what I thought about action cameras many years back I might have scoffed and told you they’re just a fad. However, the GoPro HERO3+ I was gifted back in 2013 completely changed my mind.

Personally, I feel that if your budget allows it, going for a GoPro has many advantages. The GoPro doesn’t necessarily have the best capture quality or best technical specs, but they’ve developed their own ecosystem that makes doing everything a breeze.

The GoPro camera’s user interface is top-notch, the iOS/Android app is great and there’s no shortage of great support and custom accessories. They’re a bit like the iPhone of action cameras.

But there are people who would disagree with me. New Chinese brands like DJI are producing action cameras with features on par with the most expensive GoPros, and in some aspects superior. Many ‘GoPro’ accessories are also compatible with these cameras nowadays, so there’s more competition than ever before.

Although you probably haven’t heard of its predecessor, the Akaso V50X is the upgraded V50. In specs, however, it is much more comparable to the older V50 Pro than the V50. Like the V50 Pro it features a 2-inch IPS touchscreen, adjustable viewing angle, WiFi, and gyroscope.

Compared to the V50, the touchscreen is definitely the most welcome new addition, bringing it closer to GoPros which have featured them since the relatively old HERO5 model.

On the flipside, the TRAWO’s 2-inch IPS retina display isn’t touchscreen, which makes controlling the camera a little troublesome. It’s true that 90% of the time you’re only looking to hit the record button, but the other 10% of time there’s no touchscreen to navigate the awkward menus.

The 4K+’s younger brother, the Yi 4K, can often be picked up for less than $100. With 4K @ 30fps recording, the ability to capture 12MP raw stills with EIS and a nice scratch-resistant, gorilla glass 2.2-inch touchscreen display, the Yi 4K is a very solid action camera.

Like most budget action cameras on the market there is no shortage of bundled accessories. Put it in the waterproof housing and suddenly you have an underwater camera. The included wrist-strap remote is quite basic but does the trick for taking photo and capturing video without having to touch the camera itself.

You might think the software might be a problem coming from a relatively unknown brand like Dragon Touch. However, I found it to be surprisingly usable, which shouldn’t be too surprising since Dragon Touch are primarily a tablet producing company.

The Dragon Touch Vision 3 is currently my recommendation for the best under $50 entry-level action camera available today. If you want an external mic and EIS, take a look at the Dragon Touch Vision 4

Ever since the release of the GoPro HERO5 (released in 2016), GoPros are waterproof out of the box (typically up to 10m). You don’t have to worry about extra casing when you go to swim at the pool, surf around the beach or go kayaking on the river.

However, the vast majority of non-GoPro action cameras are not waterproof out of the box. You need to put them in plastic casing which is usually included in the box. This is not only a bit of a hassle, but using external housing will also slightly reduce audio quality since it adds an extra layer between the sound and mic.

The Dragon Touch Vision 5 is waterproof up to 40m without casing. It’s therefore a great budget friendly GoPro alternative for those who don’t want to deal with external casing.

With a design similar to the GoPro HERO session, The Polaroid Cube is a very cute action cam that makes a fantastic and affordable gift. It’s very simple to operate and a great way to get a newbie into the world of shooting action videos.

While marginally more expensive than the Dragon Touch 4K Vision 3, this list wouldn’t be complete without the Campark ACT74 Action Camera which was once the best selling budget action camera for almost 2 years running.

It was released back in December 2016 so it is slightly older, but has an incredibly solid track record. Its 2-inch HD screen was a unique selling point before, but that’s already become a standard feature across cheap action cameras.

In terms of features and video quality, it is almost identical to the Dragon Touch 4K Vision 3. Yet it costs a little more and doesn’t come with a remote control so I wouldn’t consider it the best ultra-budget action camera today.

With stellar Amazon reviews and a lot of praise across the website, the Campark ACT74 might seem like a great choice. However, it’s outdated by today’s standards and the Dragon Touch Vision 3 is a better ultra-budget choice (especially as it includes a remote).

The LCD BacPac is designed to give extra functionality to the GoPro series of cameras. This includes the Black, Silver and White 3 series cameras and the Hero and Hero 2 cameras (but without the touch screen functionality).

The LCD BacPac is a small unit that clips onto the back of a camera and is powered from the camera itself. It allows you to edit the cameras settings, frame your shots and replay video.

The LCD BacPac comes supplied in the standard GoPro packaging which makes it great for shop display but I think that the amount of packaging provided could be rationalised. The LCD BacPac is supplied with three backdoors – 1 x touchscreen back door so the screen can be operated but is still waterproof, 1 x solid back door which takes away the access to the touch screen functionality and 1 x skeleton backdoor. A storage case is also provided to help keep the screen safe when it is not in use.

My main reason for purchasing the LCD BacPac was to provide a means of framing my shots and allowing me to pan the camera (on a tripod) whilst guaranteeing I would actually get the full shot and not cut anyones head off.

The LCD BacPac allows me to do this with ease and has eliminated the need for guess work. I have been able to get the shot first time, every time. So in that respect it has fulfilled its intended purpose.

The functionality of the touch screen isn’t bad, but if you are expecting an iPhone or iPad experience then you will be disappointed. A firm press is required and the X icon that appears in the top right hand corner of each of the screens can be a little tricky to hit first time.

Setting up the camera using the LCD BacPac is straight forward. The icons are OK being fairly crisp and of a size that most fingers won’t have issue with.

When you think of the best action cameras, you think of GoPro, right? Well, it"s true that GoPro leads the way for conventional action camera design, but while thebest GoPro cameras(opens in new tab)are pretty amazing, there are alternatives that are equally compelling in their own way. DJI, Insta360 and Akaso cameras offer features GoPro cameras don"t, or at prices, GoPros can"t match.

DJI is perhaps GoPro"s best-known rival, but certainly not the only one. There"s a lot of crossover in this market with other areas like the best 360º cameras, and the newly updated modular Insta360 One RS Twin Edition includes both an action camera module and a 360 module – it"s two cameras in one!

And while the GoPro Hero 11 Black takes the top spot in our list, don"t forget that GoPro keeps older Hero9 and Hero8 models on sale at reduced prices. Or, for a completely different take on the idea of "action" cameras, check out the amazing Insta360 Go 2, also on our list. We thought we"d also throw you a curve ball with the DJI Pocket 2. It"s not a rugged go-anywhere camera like a GoPro, but it"s a pocket-sized gimbal camera with stabilization, "follow" modes, and image quality way beyond what its size suggests.

Despite the Hero 11 Black looking like every other GoPro this side of 2019, with upgraded hardware and software, it"s a triumph on all fronts. The new, almost square sensor is supremely versatile, the camera"s software has been simplified successfully, and GoPro"s companion app, Quik has also been improved. With best-in-class stabilization, great-looking video in all but dimly-lit and dark scenes, and some fun new modes like light painting, the Hero 11 Black is an excellent addition to the line.

The Hero 11 Black might not have wildly improved the line"s lowlight performance. Still, with its new 8:7 sensor, a simplified interface, and enhanced horizon leveling, it"s upgraded GoPro"s offering in a meaningful way. Particularly appealing to folks who use multiple social platforms, nothing else can do quite what the 11 Black can.

Welcome to the newest and best GoPro around. Though launched without much fanfare and looking identical to the Hero9 Black in almost every way, the Hero10 Black is nevertheless a significant upgrade. That’s all down to its use of the all-new GP2 processor, which powers a speedy user interface, doubles the frame rates, and fuels the best image stabilization tech yet.

The highlight is 5.3K video with 60 frames per second, but don’t underestimate the usefulness of GoPro’s new HyperSmooth 4.0 video stabilization – in all modes – alongside 23MP photos and best-ever low-light performance. Add a nifty cable for super-quick camera-to-app content transfer and auto-upload of videos and photos to the cloud while it recharges and the Hero10 Black was worth the wait. It"s definitely not the cheapest action camera you can buy, but GoPro is now an expert at producing tough, reliable, and supremely effective action cameras, and you do get what you"re paying for.

Leading drone maker DJI forced a re-think for GoPro by introducing a front screen to their first action camera; a handy innovation for vloggers. The new Action 2 puts even more choice in the user’s hands, coming as a tiny 39x39mm square camera core that can be operated alone or attached (by a magnetic clip) to other units which offer more connectivity, battery life, and a front-facing screen. The camera has a 1 / 1.7” sensor and RockSteady 2.0 and HorizonSteady image stabilization. Even paired, it is only around the size of a GoPro, though on the downside the rear touchscreen is only the size of the main camera unit. The modular system is strong and has immense gadget value (though can get a bit hot when charging), while DJI’s Mimo app makes control via your phone painless. There is an interesting new world of accessories (as well as adaptors for the traditional ‘GoPro’ style ones), making this a hard option to overlook.

Is the DJI Pocket 2 an action camera? Well, it"s not rugged and waterproof, but it"s pocket-sized, simple to operate, and does many of the jobs you might have bought an action camera for – and with superb stabilization, smooth "follow" modes, and flip-around selfie shooting. There’s also a handy ultrawide lens attachment that definitely drops quality, but adds a field of view. Despite some real highlights: shallower depth of field than expected and nippy focusing, not to mention great object tracking and color reproduction, noise handling isn’t a highlight on the Pocket 2. That aside, the convenience, versatility, and stabilization offered by the DJI Pocket 2 can’t be overstated. After all, nothing much can do all the things it can and still slip into a jacket pocket. You can even plug it into your smartphone and get big-screen control and playback via the DJI app.

GoPro’s first action camera to feature a vlogging-style front-facing screen is now better value than ever. It allows you to frame yourself while vlogging, when used as a webcam, or just for selfies. The resolution got a boost too, with 20 megapixel stills capability and a 5K video shooting. The latter will be overkill for many, but it also allows 14.7 megapixel grabs from video, which could be hard to resist.

It’s also got a larger 2.27-inch display than the older GoPro Hero8 Black, super-smooth Hypersmooth 3.0 video stabilization, TimeWarp 3.0 for handheld time-lapses, a travel case. There’s also a Max Lens Mod accessory that will bring GoPro Max(opens in new tab)-style features like 360º horizon lock and an ultra-wide 155º Max SuperView mode.

For most adventurers, the Osmo Action 3 is the perfect balance of quality and price. Stabilized 4K video looks great and the camera can take a lot – not just rough and tumble but temperature extremes. It isn’t cheap, but the RRP is comfortably less than a similar GoPro and won’t push you toward a subscription after 12 months.

while it is a little sad to see the modular design seemingly abandoned, the Action 3 is easier to manage and more capable. The only sacrifice is the larger size and weight, but even then it still has the GoPro beat.

If you’re looking for one of the best GoPro alternatives(opens in new tab)(opens in new tab) for all-round basic use then the Wolgang GA400 action camera (US$119.99 / £119.99) should be on your radar. Boasting 4K 60fps video and up to 20-megapixel stills, it appears to match its much pricier rivals both on resolution and by having a natively waterproof chassis. It’s loaded with accessories and easy to use yet it lacks some crucially important characteristics that flagship action cameras alone offer.

With good quality, if imperfect, 4K video and good 20MP stills, the GA400 makes a great alternative to one of the big brands of action camera if you’re after results a level below the cinematic quality offered by the leading action camera brands. At this mid-range level, the build quality is excellent and the touchscreen is responsive while the onscreen menus are intuitive and easy to use.

If you need a front screen for vlogging - or to ensure you stay in the shot as you film yourself skiing down a slope with a selfie stick – then this is a bargain buy. It has the same killer feature found on the GoPro Hero 9 and the DJI Osmo Action, but the second screen comes at a fraction of the cost. You get 4K shooting and 20-megapixel stills - plus a capable 6-axis image stabilization system. There is a good range of accessories in the box too - including a second battery, mounts, and underwater housing. Note, though, that unlike with many rivals you need to use this housing before you take your action cam into the water.

It’s now over two years old, but if you’ve no need for 5K or a front-facing screen, the smaller, lighter GoPro from 2019 could be perfect for you. Like many camera makers, GoPro keeps older models on sale at reduced prices, giving users a range of price points.