How to Keep Your Outdoor Activity Highlights Choosing the Best Action Camera of 2020

Do you want to capture the brightest moments of your travels and adventures without interrupting the process? The action camera will be a great solution for all outdoor enthusiasts. A wide range of models will allow you to choose both a budget option for beginners and more advanced devices for professionals. The editors of the site "bestx.htgetrid.com/en/" offer you an overview of the best action cameras in 2020.

Criterias of choice

The first Action cameras appeared in the sixties of the last century. Outdoor enthusiasts quickly recognized the benefits of these miniature devices. Modern gadgets can shoot in 4K resolution, are resistant to mechanical stress, some even work under water at a depth of 50 meters. When choosing the right option, professionals recommend paying attention to:

• DDR matrix (size, range and resolution) - this trio determines the quality of the recording. The most important is the size of the matrix, this parameter should be chosen according to the principle the more the better. In second place is the range, which determines the ability of the device to recognize light and dark tones in one picture. The matrix resolution characterizes the number of megapixels available for operation. The recommended values ​​to be guided by for the Ultra HD format with a standard matrix size (1 / 2.3 inches) are 12-14 megapixels, for Full HD at least 10. The final choice of indicators depends on the expected operating conditions. If you plan to shoot most videos at sunset, at night, or just in low light, you need to give preference to devices with a large matrix size, good range and average resolution parameters. If the video will take place mainly in bright light, you can choose a more budget option with average parameters.
• video resolution is an indicator that determines the clarity of the image. Many cheap models with Ali Express have a resolution of 1280x720. Such options can be successfully used as action recorders, but it will be difficult to get a good video with a detailed, clear picture with their help. The main advantage of recordings in low resolution is that they take up much less space on the memory card, respectively, you can shoot more material. For amateur shooting, FullHD (1920 × 1080) resolution is suitable; for professional work, it is better to choose models that shoot in 4K (3840 × 2160) resolution.
• FPS or frames per second - for different models it can vary from 30 to 240. The smoothness and dynamics of the image depends on the FPS. For beginners, cameras performing from 30 to 60 fps are suitable. Simple devices from the price segment up to 10,000 usually perform no more than 30 frames per second. This FPS value is not suitable for shooting at high speeds, the picture will go astray and "jump". If you are planning a dynamic ride on a mountain bike or bike, it is better to choose a device with an FPS of 120 fps. For professional work, a model with a frequency of more than two hundred frames per second is preferable.
• viewing angle - determines the width of the surrounding area. Most action cameras use lenses with a field of view over 120 °. The wide-angle lens has gained popularity because it allows you to fit into the frame everything that the operator sees in front of him.Another advantage of such lenses is the large depth of field, which allows you to keep in focus both close and distant elements of the composition. This is important if the action camera is not equipped with autofocus. For product photography, there are lenses with an angle of 90 ° or 75 °. Most often, such an angle is found in action-devices built into glasses. To make it more convenient for the user, many manufacturers equip their products with a cropping function, which allows the operator to manually set the desired viewing angle. In stores, you can find models with a circular panorama effect. Well-known manufacturers (such as GoPro) produce cameras with a full 360 ° field of view. Such devices have two multidirectional lenses that allow you to convey the atmosphere of a place and event.

• battery power - determines the operating time of the device, ranging from 40 minutes for budget models to 5 hours with a lithium-ion battery. To continue working, you can use the power bank or purchase a device with replaceable batteries.
• mounts - the choice depends on where you plan to fix the action camera. Most often, the kit includes fasteners for the handlebars of the bicycle and a helmet. There are also mounts for arms, torso, glasses, masks. There are six main types: suction cups, Velcro, staples, belts, elastic bands, rotary mechanism. For the manufacture of fasteners, high-quality plastic, rubber, silicone and aluminum are used.
• form - selected depending on the conditions of use. The most common variant is a rectangular case with a display on the front. For shooting while driving at high speeds, a cylinder shape is suitable, as it has less air resistance.
• weight - the optimal weight of an action camera is 200 grams. Devices with a large weight can have advanced functionality and are suitable for those who prefer to mount the device on the torso, handlebars of a motorcycle, bicycle or other transport. If it is supposed to be attached to a hand or a helmet, you need to select models of 100-120 grams.

• memory card capacity - manufacturers equip their devices with a small amount of internal memory (the most common models have no more than 8 GB) and slots for additional cards. The required size and speed class is determined depending on the type of resolution. For recording in Full HD format, a device that supports cards with a volume of 32 GB (designed for 2 hours of continuous shooting) and 6-10 speed class is suitable. 4K video requires a U3 (UHS Speed ​​class 3, 30MB / s write speed) card of at least 64 GB, best of all 128 or 256 GB.
• protection from external influences - the choice of protection depends on the operating conditions. If you plan to work in contact with water (diving, rafting, surfing), you need to choose the maximum protection in the form of a sealed aqua box. There are different models on sale with the ability to dive to depths of 5.30 and 60 meters. For any camera, it is advisable to choose the option of protection against water drops (if it starts to rain) and dust particles. It is especially important to pay attention to anti-dust coatings when shooting in the mountains, steppe and desert. Protection from mechanical damage significantly increases the survival rate of the camera. A must for those wishing to capture the features of extreme sports and recreation. Another protection option that fans of snowboards, skis and parachuting should pay attention to is shielding from UV radiation and low temperatures.
• Wireless connectivity is optional for comfortable camera control and faster data transfer. Various models support Wi-Fi, NFC, Bluetooth.

There are hundreds of action cameras on the market today in different price categories. According to experienced users, Contour, GoPro, DRIFT HD, LIC are considered the best manufacturers.The products of these brands are always of high quality, equipped with a wide range of functions, and have many options for protection and their combinations. Among the most budgetary options, products from Xiaomi, Blackview, SJCAM, Ricoh deserve attention.

Top 5 budget models for beginners

For those who first decided to try shooting with an action camera, experienced users recommend starting with inexpensive models. The first work experience will allow you to determine the necessary parameters, the degree of protection. Introducing the top 5 best budget action cameras for beginners.

Action Camera Model	Weight (grams)	Viewing angle	Opportunities
XIAOMI YI ACTION CAMERA BASIC EDITION	72	150	Full HD video; 30 and 60 fps; Photo.
SJCAM SJ 4000 WiFi	58	170	Full HD video; fps 30; 12MP photo; image stabilization.
Gmini MagicEye HDS4000	61	170	Full HD video; electronic image stabilization; cyclic recording; autostart recording function when power is applied;
EKEN A8	64	120	video in HD format with FPS 30; serial photography; electronic image stabilizer.
Rekam XPROOF EX640	97	140	video in 8 possible resolutions from 720p to Ultra HD (4K); cyclic mode; time-lapse and time-lapse functions; underwater video at a depth of 3 m without using an aqubox; electronic image stabilizer.

XIAOMI YI ACTION CAMERA BASIC EDITION

The fifth line of the rating is occupied by a device from a well-known Chinese manufacturer. According to user reviews, this simple, reliable rectangular device will become an excellent guide for newcomers to the world of action video filming. Average cost: 5000 rubles.

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SJCAM SJ 4000 WiFi

The fourth place is given to an action camera with a high-quality 1.5-inch LCD screen. A wide selection of all kinds of accessories allows you to install the model on a helmet, forearm, torso, bicycle handlebars, cars and even a fishing rod. Average price: 4500 rubles.

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Gmini MagicEye HDS4000

The third line of the rating is taken by a very light model, equipped with an electronic stabilizer and a 1.5-inch LSD display. Average price: 3000 rubles.

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EKEN A8

In second place is the budget action-camera with the ability to shoot in HD format with FPS 30 fps. According to user reviews, it is a very reliable device with good protection against accidental shocks and falls. The average cost is 3700 rubles.

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Rekam XPROOF EX640

The top budget action camera for newbies is the rugged UHD 4K recording model. Equipped with a durable, sealed, moisture-resistant housing. Average cost: 5000 rubles.

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Top 5 Action Cameras for Professional Shooting

When you have passed the first stage of acquaintance with an action camera, you can think about purchasing a more professional model. Introducing the top 5 best action cameras for professional photography.

Model	Weight	Viewing angle	Opportunities	Time of continuous work without recharging
Xiaomi MiJia 4K Action Camera	99	145	FullHD and 4K resolutions are available; 9 shooting modes; photo in RAW format; three-dimensional noise reduction; picture auto stabilization; fisheye function.	about 2 hours
SONY FDR-X3000r	114	customizable from 90 to 170	control of settings through a special remote control; functions of loop recording, Motion Shot LE, burst and slow motion; live broadcast is possible.	from 50 to 125 minutes
Olympus Tough TG-Tracker	180	204	shockproof, waterproof case with the ability to submerge up to 30 meters; frost resistance; FullHD modes with FPS 60fps; 4K with FPS 30 fps	105 minutes
GoPro HERO6 Black	117	170	voice control; without protection, shooting at a depth of 10 m is possible; Full HD shooting at 240 fps; 12 megapixel photos in RAW format.	from 1 hour to 2
GoPro Fusion	227	360	360-degree video in 5.2K format at 30 fps; serial photo, one-click recording, time lapse, creation of photo panoramas, labels of key moments, night mode; underwater shooting up to 5m without protection; a wide range of video effects.	from 50 to 75 minutes

Xiaomi MiJia 4K Action Camera

On the fifth line is a stylish gadget designed for shooting while moving or in an aggressive environment. Differs in good build quality. The device weighs only 99 grams and is equipped with a 2.4-inch screen. Nine modes are available: simple, with a slow frame rate (for capturing long, but slowly developing processes) Slow Motion, looping, simple photo, taking photos at a specified time interval during video recording, Timer, burst shooting, Time Laps Photo. Average cost: 8500 rubles.

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SONY FDR-X3000r

The fourth line of the rating is occupied by a camera with the ability to control settings through a special remote control that is fixed to the user's wrist. The cylindrical ergonomic shape has good aerodynamic performance. Manufacturers focus not only on the high quality of the frame (4K mode is available), but also on the reliability of the device. The device is able to withstand sudden changes in temperature, dust and water resistant. Average cost: 38,000 rubles in a complete set.

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Olympus Tough TG-Tracker

The top three is opened by a device that is distinguished by a futuristic design in black-green-gray tones and a special strength of the case. Average price: 20,000 rubles.

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GoPro HERO6 Black

On the second line is a camera weighing 117 grams, equipped with a touchscreen display with a video zoom function. Average price: 26,000 rubles.

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GoPro Fusion

The leader of the rating is a product of a well-known brand with the ability to record 360-degree videos in 5.2 K format at 30 fps. Users have access to serial photos, one-click recording, time lapse, photo panoramas, key moment marks, night mode. Average cost: 50,000 rubles.

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You can buy your favorite device not only in digital technology stores, but also order via the Internet on specialized sites or even on Ali Express. Although professionals prefer to make a purchase where there is an opportunity to test the device. It is very important to evaluate the weight, convenience and reliability of the structure and fasteners yourself. If you have experience using action cameras described in the rating, or a more interesting model, tell us about it in the comments.