Waterproof Action Cams | The best of March 2022

Action Cams (or commonly known as "Action Cameras") are particular cameras dedicated mainly to extreme sports. However, in recent years, they have often been used for filming trips, outdoor trips and many other less dangerous activities. Today, in fact, there is no field unexplored by these particular cameras.

Read also: Instant cameras | The best of 2022 In such a varied market, disentangling the many alternatives is very complicated since it is not easy to compare all the technical characteristics of each product, and compare them accordingly. For this reason, we have compiled a list of the best waterproof Action Cams, which you will find below. We have deliberately selected Amazon Italy as a reference point for the easy availability of products on the net (and possibly accessories), and for the after-sales guarantee to solve any problems.

Editor's note: we have updated the article as of March 6, 2022 with a new addition!

The best waterproof Action Cams

DJI Action 2 Dual-Screen GoPro HERO9 Black GoPro Hero8 Black GoPro Hero7 Black DJI Pocket 2 GoPro HERO Session Yi 4K + Protection WP COOAU CU-SPCO6

DJI Action 2 Dual-Screen

Generic photos Among the best solutions currently in circulation for quality and functions we find the DJI Action 2 Dual-Screen action camera. It is a particular product, given that it upsets the category with a clearly different form factor than the other solutions, characterized by a magnet with which it is possible to connect a second screen or several other secondary accessories. This cam is capable of smooth 4K and 120 FPS video recording with richer detail than ever, plus the ability to create clips with a super wide-angle FOV lens. DJI Action 2 is incredibly rugged and waterproof too, so it captures every scenery on water adventures!

GoPro HERO9 Black

Continue this particular buying guide with a very high-end product, namely the GoPro HERO9 Black. It is an action cam capable of making extraordinary videos in 5K resolution, therefore ideal for keeping details vivid even when using the zoom, thanks to a new 23.6 MP sensor. Plus, with SuperPhoto mode, Hero9 Black independently chooses the best image processing to deliver a mind-boggling shot, in all circumstances. With a new front display and a large rear touch-screen, the controls become easier and more intuitive to help all fans indulge themselves. Finally, in addition to the action-cam, the initial equipment includes a carrying case, a rechargeable battery, a curved adhesive support, a mounting buckle + fixing screw and a USB-C cable.

GoPro Hero8 Black

As the first product of this buying guide we find the GoPro Hero8, which is undoubtedly one of the best action cameras ever. First, this device boasts a 12MP sensor with HDR technology, image stabilization and reduced blur. Not only that, the stabilization has three levels (on, high and boost), which allow you to increase or decrease the effect, to improve the quality of the video recording. To the many features, we must also say that the price is high, in fact we are talking about 429.99 euros, but currently it is about 330 euros.

GoPro Hero7 Black

We do not change team, and therefore we remain in GoPro presenting the GoPro Hero7. It is an action camera that boasts excellent technical characteristics despite its two years of service. In fact it represents a valid alternative to the Hero8. Entering the technical specifications, the Hero7 has a good image stabilization, which corrects all those accidental arm movements, such as shaking. It also allows you to make Live Streaming on Facebook, and at the same time save the video just transmitted on the SD card. In short, it is really difficult to ask for anything better at a price of about 250 euros.

DJI Pocket 2 - Combo Edition

DJI is one of the best action camera manufacturers on the market because it produces well-made items, which include a series of features that should not be underestimated, especially if we consider the business sector. Among these, we would like to point out the presence of an excellent product, namely the DJI Pocket 2. It represents an action camera that integrates everything you need to venture into the wilderness and capture the best moments in absolute freedom and comfort. Pocket 2 guarantees smooth and stable shooting, thanks to a very high level EIS sensor. Ensures a quality of the highest level, in fact the videos are recorded in 4K at 60 frames per second, while the photographs are 64 MP!

GoPro HERO Session

GoPro, as we know, represents one of the best producers of action cameras in the world, and the Hero Session model also demonstrates it, a camera capable of recording at 1440p / 30 fps and / or 1080p / 60 fps. This particular version is the smallest and lightest ever among all the action cam models developed by the Californian giant. In addition, Hero Session is super-tough, and can stay underwater up to 10 meters. Its selling price? About 200 euros!

Yi 4K + WP Protection

For the uninitiated, Yi is an action camera company belonging to the Xiaomi group. The product we highly recommend is the Yi 4K, a semi-professional camcorder that boasts a 12 MP Sony IMX377 sensor, seven layers of glass lenses and electronic image stabilization. Entering the technical specifications, this device can shoot videos in 4K / 30fps (60Mbps), in 1080p / 120fps or in 720p / 240fps. As for the photographs, it shoots at a resolution of 12MP. In short, it is certainly a high quality product, sold for around 250 euros.

COOAU CU-SPCO6

As the latest product in this particular guide, we present COOAU CU-SPCO6. It is an inexpensive action camera, but with good technical characteristics. In fact, we find a proprietary 20MP sensor with a wide angle lens up to 170 degrees. This camera is able to record videos in 4K at 30 FPS and, thanks to the two batteries contained inside the package, it is possible to shoot many videos. Also inside the package we find a waterproof case (up to 40 meters), a USB cable, a manual and a battery.

How to choose the best waterproof action cameras

Before leaving, we must underline the variables with which we have chosen the products in question, namely:

Resolution Video / image quality Robustness Water resistance Compatibility with accessories

Resolution

There are several standards currently in use, in the photographic field and beyond: HD, FHD and / or UHD. It is never easy to understand which product to choose based on this factor (and the FPS, whether they are 30 or 60 per second). Undoubtedly, those interested in something premium must necessarily spend more.

Video / Image Quality

Action cameras have now reached a very high standard. However, not all of them guarantee excellent performance in videos or when taking a photograph. Therefore, it is necessary to choose products that include an excellent sensor, such as those produced by Sony.

Robustness

Action-cameras were born for extreme sport, therefore they must be robust and small in size.

Water resistance

Water resistance is the beating heart of the entire buying guide, yet there are many considerations to make, such as atmospheric resistance, time endured underwater, and all the accessories that increase its range. Therefore, before making the purchase it is necessary to check the certifications and the capacity of a product.

Compatibility with accessories

Nowadays it is really difficult to find an action camera without accessories, but it's always good to put this particular variable in the list.