10 Best Budget Action Cams 2025 in the United States

The GoPro Hero12 Black is a strong contender in the budget action camera category, especially for those who want high-quality video without complicated tech details. It offers impressive video resolution up to 5.3K at 60 frames per second, which means your recordings will be sharp and smooth. Photos come out clear with 27 megapixels, and the camera’s HDR feature ensures that bright and dark parts of your shots look balanced and vibrant. One of its standout features is excellent image stabilization (HyperSmooth 6.0), which keeps videos steady even during fast or shaky movements, making it great for action-packed adventures. It’s also waterproof up to 33 feet (10 meters), so you can use it for swimming or water sports without worrying about damage. Battery life is improved compared to older models, lasting up to 70 minutes of continuous shooting at its highest video quality, thanks to the included Enduro battery.

For mounting, it includes popular curved adhesive mounts and mounting buckles, which are easy to attach to helmets, bikes, or other gear. Connectivity-wise, Bluetooth support allows you to connect external microphones or earbuds wirelessly, boosting audio quality and control options. A 2.3-inch screen helps you frame your shots simply. On the downside, while it’s called a budget option, the Hero12 Black is still a bit pricier than very basic action cameras, and 70 minutes of max-quality recording might feel limited for longer outings without spare batteries. This GoPro model suits users seeking solid video quality, strong stabilization, and reliable waterproofing in a compact package that’s easy to handle on adventures.

The GoPro HERO13 Black action camera positions itself as a strong contender in the budget-action-cam category. One of its standout features is the impressive 5.3K60 video resolution, which delivers stunning clarity and smooth motion—perfect for capturing high-quality action shots. The camera's 27MP photo capability further enhances its appeal for creators who value sharp imagery alongside video features. It also boasts legendary durability and waterproofing, making it a reliable choice for adventurous users who want to film in various environments, from the ocean to extreme sports settings.

Additionally, the HERO13 Black includes advanced image stabilization, ensuring that your videos remain steady even in demanding conditions, which is a significant plus for action-packed scenarios. Battery life has also seen improvements, allowing for extended shooting sessions, which is essential for users who don’t want to miss a moment.

While the HERO13 Black excels in video quality, it may come with a higher price point compared to other budget options on the market, which could be a drawback for those strictly looking for the most affordable solution. The camera's reliance on micro SD cards for storage might also pose a slight inconvenience for users unfamiliar with managing external storage. Furthermore, the connectivity options are limited to USB, which might not cater to everyone’s needs.

The GoPro HERO13 Black is ideal for creators and adventurers looking for a reliable, high-quality action camera that can handle various challenges. Budget-conscious buyers or those seeking simpler cameras for casual use may want to explore other models that offer essential features at a lower cost.