The GoPro HERO is a great starter action cam, priced at just under $130, but for those who want to explore their options, we’ve rounded up five other alternatives for your viewing enjoyment. Don’t let the low price fool you, the HERO features high-quality 1080p30 and 720p60 video recording options, as well as QuikCapture, which lets you power on the camera and start recording with the press of a single button, along with Burst Photo for capturing fast-action sequences at up to 5 frames per second. Product page. Continue reading for more.
5. Garmin Virb HD Action Camera
Garmin’s Virb HD Action Camera is capable of recording 1080p high-definition video, 16-megapixel color images in burst- or time-lapse-triggering modes, and it can even capture full-res still photos while recording video. Its 9-element lens captures video with an ultrawide field of view. Plus, the camera’s body is IPX-7 waterproof, and Garmin will be offering a wide range of mounts for hands-free operation while enjoying a variety of sports. Product page.
4. Polaroid XS100i Wi-Fi Edition
The Polaroid XS100i Wi-Fi Edition features a G-Sensor, dual file recording capabilities, vibration reduction, ultra light and integrated wireless sharing. Just press the record button and you’re instantly recording up to 1080p HD video at 30 fps, plus with the added convenience of built-in Wi-Fi, capturing and sharing the sights and sounds of your adventures has never been easier. With the built in Wifi you will be able to adjust your settings, remote control, and share your videos instantly.Product page.
3. Sony HDR-AS30V
The Sony HDR-AS30V features built-in Wi-Fi connectivity with NFC, so you can turn your compatible smartphone into a remote control viewing device. Conquer jagged mountain peaks, rocketing descents or swerving slaloms in perfect clarity thanks to SteadyShot image stabilization with Active Mode that delivers stunningly smooth video even while in motion. In addition, innovative 3-way shake canceling adds electronic roll stability for even smoother video capture. Capable of both 60p and 30p recording and playback, the HDR-AS30V delivers stunning clarity, brilliant detail and smooth playback, no matter how rocky the trick was. And then slow it all down. Savor the awesome with HD SLOW 2x (1280 x 720, 60p) and HD SLOW 4x (1280 x 720, 120p). It’s ideal for studying and refining form and technique, while holding the moment for everyone to see. Product page.
2. Contour ROAM2
The Contour ROAM2 is still the simplest action camera to use on the market, thanks to the locking Instant On-Record switch, which makes it easy to get the perfect shot. The company has upped the frame rate to 60fps at 720p, and fine-tuned the picture giving the video quality incredible clarity, even in full HD at 30fps 1080p. Whether snorkeling, snowboarding, or tearing up single track, the Contour ROAM2 is ready for any adventure. It’s compatible with every Contour mount giving you unlimited angles. The 270° rotating lens means no matter where the camera is mounted, you’ll always get the perfect, level shot. Product page.
1. Sony HDR-AS100VR
Sony HDR-AS100VR packs pro-quality features like Advanced Steady Shot, built-in Wi-Fi, and XAVC S HD recording and 120/240p frame rates into a splash-proof body. With a built-in tripod mount, GPS tagging and included LiveView Remote (LVR) it’s ready for the big waves, the big air and the big jumps. Need to take a breather or set up a static shot? Simply attach a tripod via the universal tripod screw mount and keep capturing all the action in sublime stability. Product page.