The Best Cameras (2026), Tested and Reviewed

Compare Our Top Choice Action Cameras

B-Roll

All cheap cameras on Amazon: Readers often ask, why spend $400 on a GoPro when you can get a camera with 4K video for $100? It’s a fair question, and the answer comes down to software, especially image stabilization. Action cameras are designed to be strapped to helmets or strapped to your chest as you fly through the air, rock climb, and run through the city. on a scooter. Without consistency, the result is one that even your best friends won’t be happy with. So yes, you will get 4K photos with cheap cameras, but they will be pictures that no one wants to see. In our opinion, it’s better to spend another $100 on an old GoPro (Hero 11 or 12) for sale.

Best Tools for Your Camera

Photo: Scott Gilbertson

When you have an action camera, it’s best to use it often. GoPro, Insta360, and DJI all offer helmet mounts and other ways to mount your camera wherever you want. But there are some great additions that can make shooting your dreams a lot easier. Here are a few:

A good microSD card: You can access the SD card with your camera. Insta360’s SD cards are really good, but I prefer to use SanDisk’s Extreme cards because they’re faster and, as a bonus, waterproof. You can get a A 512-GB card costs about $70. I also like Samsung’s Pro Plus microSD cards, which are slightly faster in my tests. You can take a 256-GB about $96. DJI has a special recommendation for microSD cards to use with the Action 6. On their list I recommend the Lexar Professional Silver Plus ($24).

GoPro Media Mod for $79: The GoPro’s sound is good out of the box, but if you want high-quality music, this is where you start. Not because Average Mod it makes a lot of noise—it’s better than a camera, but still not great. What they do provide is a microphone jack. Connect a high-quality microphone and you will end up with excellent sound. (Not valid when flying in traffic.)

Handlebar/seat/post mount $40: This is my favorite mount for mountain biking, but it will also work on steep trees and anything else around you that you want to push on.

Motorcycle accessories $50: If you ride, this mount for Insta360 cameras (Ace Pro, X5, etc.) is a must have. It’s one of the safest bars I’ve ever used, almost as good as a bench.

Yallsame tripod mount for $10: Action cameras offer many ways to mount them, but one that is surprisingly missing is the traditional quarter-inch tripod screw mount. The GoPro Hero 13 has one, but these three adapters solve the problem for others.

Polarizer and ND filters: If you shoot around water, glass, or any other highly reflective surface, a polarizing filter will help cut the glare. Neutral density (ND) filters block light to allow you to shoot at a wider range in bright light, which helps increase dynamic range. All of these are great additions to your camera kit. If you have a Hero 13 Black you can get some new features GoPro ND Filter Four-Pack ($90)which automatically changes the camera settings when connected. This is good because finding shutter speed with ND filters can be trial and error. GoPro ND filters do all that for you. If you don’t have HEro 13, I tried it and loved it DJI’s ND filter set for Action 6 ($79). For older GoPros, I like it Freewell’s polarizing and ND filters ($20). I recommend starting with an 8-stop ND or a combo ND and polarizing filter.

A float of $35: Another one for underwater shooters, but it’s worth the money because it prevents your GoPro from reaching the bottom of the ocean. I’ve never tried it, but here’s another one Insta360 Ace Pro 2 ($20)and at the time of the update Action 6 is very new and does not seem to have a problem. I can confirm that the old article will work, but the buttons don’t connect and are a pain to use. Hopefully DJI will release a new version soon.

Selfie stick for $25: I’ve tried a lot of selfie sticks and they’re good, but I still only grab this Insta360 model when I’m out the door. It’s light, small enough to fit in the bottom of my bag, and it’s cheap. If you want to be great, this Selfie Stick Extension for Insta360 ($100) it can simulate a low-flying aircraft, perfect for use in zoos and other areas where drones are prohibited.