There’s nothing more beautiful than enjoying the serenity of the wilderness in the forest or ocean. The sunset, trees, rivers, hills and the experience itself, are like no other feeling in the world. In other words, if you spend a lot of your time backpacking, hiking or even underwater excursions, getting a camera seems like an excellent idea.
After all, don’t you want to capture footage pictures of mesmerizing scenery and memorable journeys in your adventure? Though there are many types of camera in the market these days, finding the right camera that is suitable for outdoor adventures can be a little tricky.
In this case, action cameras are the most appropriate kind of camera for these types of activities. Not to mention, you’ll have to find the right outdoor action camera depending on the journey’s terrain and surroundings.
On top of that, an activity like backpacking, hiking or underwater excursions requires a durable camera that is not only light in weight but also shockproof. Above all, finding the best action camera under your budget can be a little stressful. With so many factors to consider, how do you select the right action camera for your adventure trips?
With this in mind, this article’s guide will showcase the top 8 best cheap action cameras that meet your needs. But before this article jumps straight into the top 8, it is imperative to consider some of the most important factors when choosing an action camera.
These features are here to help you identify what you really want in an action camera. After all, you want the overall best quality experience for your trip.
| Product Name | Weight | Dimensions | Color | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Polaroid XS100I | 4.8 oz | 7.3 x 6.1 x 3.7 in | White | Check price on Amazon |
| Sony HDRAS50/B | 0.97 lb | 4.94 x 4.53 x 5 in | Black | Check price on Amazon |
| Drift HD Ghost-S | 6 oz | 3.94 x 1.18 x 1.97 in | Black | Check price on Amazon |
| Zabia Original SJCam M10 | 1.3 lb | 3.2 x 4.4 x 7.6 in | Black | Check price on Amazon |
| Garmin Virb X | 5.3 lb | 1.4 x 3 x 1.6 in | Black | Check price on Amazon |
| SJCam SJ5000 | 2.1 oz | 2.4 x 1.6 x 1 in | Yellow | Check price on Amazon |
| Amkov 5000S | 1.3 lb | 8.7 x 7 x 2.7 in | Black | Check price on Amazon |
| Garmin Virb | 6.1 oz | 4.2 x 1.8 x 1.1 in | Silver | Check price on Amazon |
Features to Consider
Here, we are going to show you the important features you should know before buying an action camera.
Weight
Let’s face it; weight is one of the biggest factors to consider when it comes to choosing the right action camera. After all, if you’re going to be the one doing the activities and recording at the same time, it’s a little tricky to find the balance of the weight of the camera on you.
At the same time, there is a range of reasons for the weights of these action cameras. To point out, heavier cameras have extra features or bigger protective casings. For instance, the DRIFT HD GHOST-S Digital Video Action Camera comes with Gorilla Screen and is 100% made from robust, durable materials.
In this case, this has added a little increase in weight and bulk in size. Despite its weight, the DRIFT HD Action Camera is known for its excellent features that produce great images and recording videos. Not to mention, its battery has a longer life compare to the others.
Video recording
Depending on the model type and its design features, not all action camera devices have the same HD video Mode. If you’re looking to shoot in 1080P resolution, then all these action cameras listed in this article are capable of shooting at that capacity. All of the recommended devices mentioned here are capable of recording between 30 to 60 fps as well.
Photo resolution
In today’s market, photo resolution is as important as video recording. Nowadays, a lot of action cameras provide some of the best photo resolutions and thus, it is important to consider this factor when it comes to choosing the right action camera.
After all, don’t you want to a picture that can be a beautiful single memory? For instance, The AMKOV 5000S, comes with motion detection and vibration sensor ensuring that the image sensors are of focus to ensure the perfection of optical visual.
But not all of the devices listed here have the same technology as the AMKOV model. For example, the Garmin Virb and SJCAM SJ5000 come with the 16-megapixels sensor to ensure that it focused more on shooting video modes than stills.
To summarize, if you’re looking for an action camera that focuses more on the video mode, then consider the other factor. If you’re looking for devices that focus more on high picture stills, then consider this factor into your decision-making process.
Storage media
To be honest, it’s not a surprise that most of the action cameras on the market these days comes with a MicroSD slot. All things considered, MicroSD cards are known for its versatile features. Thereby, all of the action camera devices listed in this article, come with a MicroSD support.
Waterproof
If you’re going to use an action camera to record your extreme adventures, there are chances that you will encounter water. Not to mention, why invest in an action camera if it’s not going to be water resistant? After all, if you enjoy hiking as much as diving, it’s better to invest in an action camera that offers waterproof protection.
Thus, all of the devices mentioned here are waterproof except for one exceptional device, The Garmin Virb Action Camera as it can’t be used for watersport activities. Despite its advantages, the Garmin Virb Action Camera comes with a waterproof protection, and there by, can be utilized for outdoor sports activities during rainy seasons.
Top Product Reviews
Now we are going to go over the top 8 action cameras on the market right now. We hope one of these is the right one for you!
Polaroid XS100I
Price: Approx. $160
Dimensions: 7.3 x 6.1 x 3.7 inches
Weight: 4.8 ounces
Micro SD: up to 32GB
Specific features: Professional sensor with low-light performance, waterproof up to 30’/10m, distortion-free ultra wide angle lens provides a 170 degrees of coverage
Best use: Extreme outdoor activities, surfing & rafting.
Description: The Polaroid XS100i is one of the lowest priced action cameras in the market. This camera is the perfect alternative to Go-Pro Camera for those who are looking to buy within their budget.
It can capture 10 photos in a second, and the video quality is excellent. Also, it comes built-in WIFI that allows you to sync with your phone. The concept itself is very easy to use. In fact, this camera is waterproof.
The only downside to this product is that the WIFI works very well with IOS app, but it will not sync with Android App. Nonetheless, the Polaroid XS100i Wi-Fi Extreme Edition HD 1080p is known for its lightweight, compact, waterproof and easy to use features.
Other design features of this Polaroid action camera include Aerodynamic Design, Shockproof Exterior, Dual File Recording, Adjustable Frame Rate 720p, Full Helmet & Handlebar Mounts included.
PROS:
- Waterproof
- Comes with mounting kit
CONS:
- Users have had trouble with the app
- Firmware can get buggy
Related: You will need a big memory card, so using one like the SanDisk Ultra 32GB UHS-I/Class 10 Micro SDHC Memory Card will allow you to have enough space.
Sony HDRAS50/B
Price: Approx. $170
Dimensions: 4.94 x 4.53 x 5 inches
Weight: 15.5 ounces
Video capture resolution: 1080p
Specific features: Full HD with XAVC-S, 11.1MP, Exmor R sensor, Optical Steady Shot, ZEISS Lens, WIFI/NF/Bluetooth, Multi-camera control, 60m waterproof housing
Best use: Extreme outdoor activities, surfing & rafting for summer.
Description: The new Sony HDRAS50/B is known for its user-friendly system and easy to learn features. In other words, this product is the perfect replacement to GoPro Cameras. It shoots at 8-megapixels, and it has a 3x smooth zoom mode. Not to mention, it comes with a new Zeiss Lens that provides even sharper pictures.
The apps are compatible with IOS and Android systems. Moreover, the construction is imperviously reliable, and the battery life is long. The only downside of this product is that with the waterproof case on, it can be heavy.
However, if this feature doesn’t bother you, then overall, the Sony HDRAS50/B Full HD Action Cam is an excellent camera that is not only reasonably cheap in price but also works as well as any GoPro cameras.
Users like this action cam because it is light weight and has a long battery life. You can find this in the base model or you can get it with Live View Remote.
PROS:
- Full HD
- Works with WiFi, Bluetooth and more
- Waterproof to 60 meters
CONS:
- Video can seem unclear
- Low light is not very good
Related: The Wasabi Power Battery and Charger for Sony will ensure that you stay charged no matter where you are so you do not miss a moment! Under $20, this comes in a 2 pack.
Drift HD Ghost-S
Price: Approx. $300
Dimensions: 3.94 x 1.18 x 1.97 inches
Weight: 0.38 pounds
Video capture resolution: 1080p
Specific features: Full HD 1080 video at 60fps, 12-megapixel photos, Drift DataLink WIFI enabled & Drift App, 2” LCD screen with Gorilla Glass & 300 Degree Rotatable Lens.
Best use: Extreme outdoor activities, surfing, rafting & scuba diving for the summer.
Description: The Drift HD Ghost-S is an excellent choice for an action camera for those who are looking for high image quality and long battery life. It shoots 1080p video at 60fps for fast scenes and 720p at 120fps for slow-motion video.
The camera screen is made with Gorilla Glass to ensure that it survives after a few scrapes. In other words, this product’s material is 100% durably strong. The feature concepts are simple and easy to use.
Also, the apps are available for Android and IOS. The only downside of this product is that the camera is bulky and large compared to the others. Overall, if you’re on a budget and looking for a great replacement to GoPro, then this DRIFT HD GHOST-S Digital Video Action Camera is an excellent choice for many great values.
Overall, users like this because of the high image quality and the durability. They also like the slow motion video option, which can be fun.
PROS:
- Rotating lens
- WiFi enabled
- HD video at 1080p
CONS:
- Interface needs work
- Microphone does not pick up voices a few feet away
Related: The Wasabi Power Battery (2-Pack) and Charger for Drift GBAT and Drift HD Ghost/Ghost-S will make sure you are charged wherever you go. IT includes battery packs and a car charger.
Zabia Original SJCam M10
Price: Approx. $100
Dimensions: 3.2 x 4.4 x 7.6 inches
Weight: 1.3 pounds
Video capture resolution: 1080p
Specific features: 1.5-inch High Definition screen, Water-resistant housing up to 30 meters under water, support HDMI HD output, & WIFI Function.
Best use: Extreme watersport activities for summer.
Description: The Zabia Original SJCAM M10 is known for its multipurpose features that can be used underwater. It has excellent, easy to use features and user-friendly interface.
The product comes with a case that is waterproof up to 30 meters underwater, perfect for water sport activities, for instance, scuba diving and surfing. The only downside of this product is that don’t expect excellent customer service from the SJCAM customer support team as it has shown some evidence from the reviews’ section.
However, the Zabia Original SJCAM M10 WiFi 1080p Waterproof Mini Sports Action Camera is very affordable in price and provides excellent quality videos. Not to mention, it is light in weight.
Overall, those who have purchased this camera have enjoyed it because of the updated image quality and high definition. The display allows you to view videos and it has a housing that is water resistant. You can also choose from many modes of shooting, which range from Time Lapse to Support Web Camera Function.
PROS:
- Waterproof
- Small and lightweight
CONS:
- Power button can stop working
Related: The SanDisk Ultra 32GB microSDHC UHS-I Card with Adapter will allow you to store your videos and photos and costs under $15.
Garmin Virb X
Price: Approx. $220
Dimensions: 1.4 x 3 x 1.6 inches
Weight: 5.3 pounds
Video capture resolution: 1080p
Specific features: G-METRIX built-in GPS, burst capability, waterproof, bluetooth audio, external sensors with connectivity to Garmin devices to capture performance data like speed, elevation, heart rate & G-force
Best use: Suitable for all extreme outdoor, sky & watersport activities (winter & summer)
Description: If you’re a Garmin fanatic, then the Garmin Virb X is definitely for you. Compared to the other Garmin action camera products; the Garmin Virb X is known for its reasonable cheap price and high definition footage at 1080p per 30flps.
It comes with Garmin G-METRIX built-in GPS, which allows you to track for your hunting and cycling purposes. Not only that, this camera is waterproof, which allows it to be used to 50 meters deep without a case.
The only downside to this product is that the Garmin Virb Edit Software may be a little difficult for beginners and therefore, it is advisable to read the software instructions before using it. All things considered, the Garmin Virb X is known for its thoughtful easy to use features and innate button layout.
There is no greater action camera on the market other than Garmin Virb X. Users like this because it is a great camera that comes with several parts that you do not have to buy separately.
PROS:
- Can be purchased in a bundle
- Built in GPS
CONS:
- External audio input does not work well
- Not the best image quality
Related: The Garmin Battery Pack for Virb X & XE works with this Garmin version and has a 2 hour battery life.
SJCam SJ5000
Price: Approx. $150
Dimensions: 2.4 x 1.6 x 1 inches
Weight: 2.1 ounces
Video capture resolution: 1080p
Specific features: WIFI function, water-resistant housing, support HMID HD output function, Ambarella A7LS75 DSP, Panasonic 16 megapixel ½.33” CMOS Sensor & 1.5” 960*240 dots matrix TFT LCD
Best use: Suitable for all extreme outdoor, sky & watersport activities. (winter & summer)
Description: The SJCAM SJ5000 is known for its excellent high-quality recordings due to its new image processor Panasonic 16 Megapixel CMOS Sensor. It is installed with Ambarella A7LS75 DSP that allows the quality of the video recorded at 1080 30-60 fps faster and better, which is a slight improvement from other predecessor models.
Not only that, it comes with a waterproof case that allows the camera to be in the water up to 30 meters. Above all, this camera can fit in any GoPro accessories. However, the only downside of this product is that beware of fake or replica models similar to it. Make sure to choose the right model with SJCAM Software.
Overall, the SJCAM SJ5000 Plus Wifi Ambarella A7LS75 is reasonably cheap and provides some of the best quality pictures. Those who have this camera like it because it is small, connects to WiFi and is water resistant!
PROS:
- Water resistant
- WiFi connection
CONS:
- Can reboot on its own
- App does not always work
Related: The EforTek 1000mAh Li-ion Battery (2-Pack) and Dual USB Charger Kit has 2 batteries and USB charger included all for under $15!
Amkov 5000S
Price: Approx. $100
Dimensions: 8.7 x 7 x 2.7 inches
Weight: 1.3 pounds
Specific features: Waterproof 30m 170 wide, battery 1150mAh, Supports TF card up to 32GBUp to 64GB (SDHC), More than 2.5 hours, Up to FHD (1920*1080 30fps), HD (1280*720 60fps), HD (1280*720 30fps), Internal memory: 4M SPI, DDR3 1GB, WIFI function & shockproof carrying bag.
Best use: Suitable for all extreme outdoor & watersport activities. (winter & summer)
Description: The AMKOV 5000S is another interesting option for a cheap action camera. Similar design and hardware concept to its predecessor AMK5000 but more advanced in software, this model stands out for its light in weight, long battery life and better picture resolution.
Not only that, it comes with motion detection, G-Force sensor and vibration sensor. However, the only downside of this product is very similar to the Zabia Original SJCAM M10 WiFi 1080p Waterproof Mini Sports Action Camera. Their customer support service is not impressive when it comes to hardware issues.
Nonetheless, this model is known for its reasonably low price and its small in size. Users have enjoyed this camera because of the 20 mega pixel shooting, the long battery life and the fact that it is waterproof up to 30 meters. It does come with a shock proof carrying bag for protection, and it supports WIFI.
PROS:
- Waterproof up to 30 m
- Shockproof carrying bag
CONS:
- Can have charging and Micro USB issues
- Cables may not work
Related: The Samsung EVO 32GB Class 10 Micro SDHC Card with Adapter (MB-MP32DA/AM) will hold up to 32 B of data all for under $20!
Garmin Virb
Price: Approx. $400
Dimensions: 4.2 x 1.8 x 1.1 inches
Weight: 6.1 ounces
Specific features: 16 MP CMOS sensor/image processor for multiple HD video modes 1080p at 30fps, long-lasting rechargeable and removable 2000mah, lithium-ion battery (up to 3.5 hr. battery life at 1080p), durable, waterproof (IPX7) with a compact design;
Wide lens: Shooting modes (wide/medium/narrow) HDR (High Dynamic Range), ANR (Advanced Noise Reduction), LDC (Lens Distortion Correction, Internal microphone and optional USB to 3.5mm stereo MIC adapter & ANT+ connectivity for remote control function with other compatible Garmin products and data transfer.
Best use: Suitable for all summer extreme outdoor activities.
Description: The Garmin Virb action camera is a tough, rugged, durable action camera that provides excellent quality pictures and videos. The design and layout concept of this model makes the function controls easy to use.
Not only that, it comes with the ANT Sensor capabilities that allow the camera to be used for any extreme outdoor action activities. Not to mention, the price is reasonably low in price.
The only downside to this product is that the manufacturer has discontinued it. Not only that, this device is suitable for watersport activities. It is waterproof in the rain but not for diving and surfing. Nevertheless, Garmin continues to prove its promise, by delivering the best innovative products, such as the Virb Action Camera.
While it is on the pricey side, users like the Ultra HD video and how great the images are when recorded. They also like the voice controls as well as the LCD color touch screen.
PROS:
- Ultra HD video
- VOice controls
- Stable
CONS:
- Pricey
- GPS can turn off other functions
Related: The Garmin VIRB Ultra Cage + Protective Lens is a great way to mount your camera. It is light weight and has a fast locking clamp.
Concluding Thoughts
With this in mind, all the 8 devices mentioned in this article are a great alternative compared to GoPro. Not only they are reasonably cheap in price, but also they will not disappoint you in term of their excellent key features. After all, owning the right action camera can make a whole lot of difference in your excursion.
Even if the devices mentioned in the article, don’t seem to attract you, at least consider the features when it comes to selecting the right action camera for you. So, what are you waiting for? Whether you’re scuba diving or skiing, it’s time to get the action camera and capture your adventures.
Do you think we missed any of the cheap action cameras out there? If so, please let us know in the comment.
Polaroid has always been a great brand and I was quite pleased that they decided to come up with an excellent and affordable action camera. True, the Go-Pro IS pricey and not everyone can afford to buy those. So, these alternative products are the best ones that we can buy in the market at prices that won’t break the bank!
The Garmin Virb XE has captured so many memories for me over the years. It has captured family reunions, it has captured memories of my kids through their different stages, and most importantly, it has captured all our adventures so we can relieve them later.
That’s great to hear Daniel! Here’s to a lot more memories that you and your family can make. I hope your Garmin preserves it all in digital form. Thanks for stopping by to comment!
For sometime, I was in search of a cheaper but good alternative to Go-Pro’s helmet cam when I came across the Polaroid versions. The price looked affordable to me so I decided to buy one with the Wi-Fi option. It turned out to be a great experience. It takes great video IMHO and since it has a kinda fish-eye bubble view, you don’t need to worry a great deal on how it’s lined up on any surface you mount it on. It has so many other options that I can continue explaining for hours. I would say buy this thing in your first free time.
Polaroid has always been a great brand and I was quite pleased that they decided to come up with an excellent and affordable action camera. True, the Go-Pro IS pricey and not everyone can afford to buy those. So, these alternative products are the best ones that we can purchase in the market at prices that won’t break the bank!