If you’re more interested in capturing special moments-or making regular moments look special-and less interested in a camera that can survive in the skate park, buy this. If you’re looking for all the video capability you can fit in your pocket-and your budget-there’s something here for you. Some are more “action” (a focus on ruggedness and image stabilization), some are more “camera” (better image quality and broader dynamic range), and some have decided to forego the standard boxy design altogether. I relied on that experience and research into newer models to make the selections below.īeyond the obvious desire to have a range of prices, we looked for cameras that approach this category in different ways. And in my role as a gear tester, I’ve spent many years using and evaluating similar models. The Popular Mechanics video team and tech reports have evaluated many of these models. But if you plan on strapping this to a helmet, dunking it in the ocean, or otherwise exposing it to rocks and hard places, pay extra for a more rugged design. Some even have filters and presets to help with everything from narrative to fun effects.ĭurability: Are you just looking for better-quality video than you can get from your phone but still plan to shoot in phone-friendly settings? If so, you can go for cheaper models that tend to offer waterproof housings and the like as add-ons.
But if you just want some simple editing capabilities, consider whether you want a camera that comes with app-based editing (which all of these have) or even just simple in-camera editing. Features and Details to Considerįront-facing screens: Plan on shooting yourself a lot? Make sure the camera has a second front-facing screen or some other way to achieve selfie shooting so you can keep yourself centered in the action.Įditing tools: If you’re planning to use high-end, third-party editing software, you already have your preferences. And the fact that these cameras are made to survive the harsh conditions of skateboard parks and backcountry ski adventures means you can trust them for your own beach adventures, hikes, and family vacations. You don’t need to huck cliffs or fly drones to justify one all you need are moments worth capturing. If you have ever wished you could do just a bit more with the video tools on your phone, you’d benefit from having one of these around. The narrow expectation that these are made for strapping to ski helmets and surfboards ignores all the ways these cameras can literally put a new lens on anyone’s video efforts.
But saddling them with the “action” label can be far too limiting. This would probably be a good time to reconsider the term “action cameras.” Not the category, of course-these cameras are wonderful and won’t be leaving us anytime soon.
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