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GoPro Action Camera Competitors: Are They Any Good?

01/06/2021

It is no doubt that GoPro has become the leading action camera brand. However, there are certain brands worth mentioning that rival GoPro. But this is not an admittance that they are outright better than the GoPro.


These brands are great GoPro competitors in several aspects such as features, qualities, and price. So, for those who fancy variety or are on a budget, an alternative model might be the way to go. They also offer high-quality 4k videos and photos, and specialized features for water sports.


So, are you looking for the best action camera brand that rivals the GoPro? Read on, as we provide you with the top GoPro action camera competitors in 2020 and their best models. 


Best GoPro Action Camera Competitors



1.  AKASO


AKASO is one of the best GoPro alternatives brand. They offer cameras that give you value for your money, and at a considerably cheaper rate.

Their models certainly live up to expectations, offering a satisfaction greater than the price tag. Here is one of the best action cameras from AKASO that have features that rival the GoPro.




AKASO Brave 7


The Brave 7 action camera stands out as the best camera offered by AKASO. Although it is considerably more costly than other brand models, it is still not as high as the lowest GoPro models.


It can film 4k video at 30fps, a feature that is only common with expensive cameras. It produces outstanding image quality due to its 20MP camera. A more common feature is its connection compatibility with Android and iOS, using the app support(AKASO Go).


This AKASO action camera also comes with extra accessories. These accessories include various mounts, an extra battery, wrist-mounted remote control, and a waterproof casing.


Pros


◆ Extra accessories


◆ Waterproof features


◆ Provides value for your money


Cons


◆ Poor internal mic



2. DJI OSMO


DJI is a company that specializes in the production of drones, gimbals, and quality camera. DJI has also taken a great step to produce action cameras that have become popular over the years. A camera like the DJI OSMO action is one of the top models of this brand that has become one of the GoPro competitors.




DJI OSMO action


The DJI OSMO Action might be a newer product, but it comes with DHU's drone cams' caliber. You will hardly find this unique feature in most DJI competitors. 


It also features a dual touchscreen display for easy control. With this feature, it is easier to take selfies, shots, and videos.


The OSMO Action also features effective image stabilization, as well as automatic shooting HD video. What's more, it is compatible with all kinds of mounts and accessories.

Pros


◆ Water-resistant


◆ Swappable filters


◆ Color display (front and rear)


◆ 240fps of slow-motion for 1080p slow-motion


◆ 60fps to give stabilized 4K footage


Cons


◆ Unstabilized HDR video


◆ Inferior stabilization to GoPro


◆ Low battery life could be better.



3. Sony


Sony has continued to be one of the number 1 GoPro rivals. Their old school styled cameras contain impressive technology, unlike any other action camera in the market today.


One of Sony's leading models is the Sony FDRX3000 action camera, which rivals any GoPro model on the market.




Sony FDRX3000


Sony takes a great step to offer an action camera model with image stabilization and action zoom for high-quality video and shots. Having a size of 28mm × 47mm × 83mm, you can mount the Sony FDRX3000 in your handlebars and helmets comfortably.


It features GPS, WI-FI, and Bluetooth. One of the impressive features is its optical image stabilization, which is far better than the electronic version utilized by cheaper GoPro models.


You can decide to shoot at 4k 30fps. And combined with quality, image stabilization is great alternatives to GoPro models.

Pros


◆ Impressive image stabilization


◆ Perfect underwater housing


◆ Fantastic sound and video quality


Cons


◆ Costly


◆ No extras in the package


◆ Disappointing still images



4. Garmin VIRB




The VIRB undoubtedly have the customers in mind when it comes to their action cams. They offer cameras with impressive features on the inside to capture life on the outside.


With the launch of a completely redesigned version of its VIRB action camera, the VIRB Ultra 30, VIRB has become a worthy competitor in the GoPro action camera race.




Garmin Virb Ultra 30


Garmin has other action sports cameras, but their VIRB Ultra 30 is one of the best models representing the brand for great qualities.


With a resolution of 4K and a speed of 30 frames per second, this model is a strong competitor with the GoPro's Hero4 Black. It also features a touch screen on the back, another popular feature that rivals the GoPro.

Pros


◆ Allows for 4K resolution videos at high-speed shooting


◆ WiFi allows for live stream on YouTube


◆ Packaged with Waterproof chassis


Cons


◆ Protective housing must be added to make it waterproof

◆ Electronic image stabilization not available for 4K resolution



5. Yi 


For years, Yi's action cameras have delivered action camera with decent quality for your budgeted needs. It offers cameras with incredible image quality—and that is just one of the many features that makes it the best GoPro competitors. A notable model from this brand is the Yi 4K+.




Yi 4K+


The Yi 4K is designed with multiple layers of all-glass lens, Sony IMX377 image sensor, new-gen Ambarella A9SE75 chip, and other impressive features. It can record 4K/30 FOS at 60mbps. Also, it features a responsive 640 × 360 glass of 2.19-inches, both touchscreen and scratch, and impact resistant.


The Yi 4K+ features a voice command option. With this feature, you only need to tell your camera whatever you want it to do. Other features include burst, slow motion, multi-recording, and time-lapse capabilities.


It has a rechargeable battery of 1200mAh. This battery can last for up to 8 hours and record as much as 120 minutes of video. All these great components contribute to making it one of the best GoPro action camera competitors.

Pros


◆ Great value


◆ Strong battery life


◆ Fantastic still and HD video quality


Cons


◆ Poor sound recording quality


◆ Extra accessories not included


◆ Image stabilization absent for 4K



6. Insta360


Insta360 is a lesser-known company. They specialize in action and 360-degree cameras. However, this brand has made its way to be the number one rival to the GoPro 360 degrees cameras.


The Insta360 provides unique versatility for everyday use. And its leading model, the Insta360 ONE R, is one of the brand's best-selling action cameras.




Insta360 One R Twin Edition


The Insta360 ONE R changed the game with its introduction of interchangeable lenses to its action camera. It is designed with three lenses.  


The first lens is a 4K mod like that of other cameras of this caliber, while the second is a dual-lens. 


But the third is a contribution from Leica, which is a wide-angle lens. When paired with a 1-inch sensor, it can capture 5K video.


You can also pair the 360 mod with the 4K mod if you can afford it. Overall, the Leica 1-inch mod produces top-notch image and video quality.




Pros


◆ Great modular design


◆ Waterproof features


◆ Upgraded mobile App with AI


Cons


◆ Unfriendly user software


◆ Small screen size


◆ Video quality not as high as GoPro



7. Olympus


For many years now, Olympus has been making action cameras that have are great alternatives to the GoPro models. With adventure lovers in mind, Olympus builds high-quality cameras with impressive features. If you want to give this brand a test, the Olympus Tough TG-6 is a great way to go.




Olympus Tough TG-6


The Olympus Tough TG-6 might not be built to be strapped on your helmet or handlebar, but it is a great video buddy for your underwater activities. It has a larger sensor compared to other competitors.


It has a sturdy construction that can withstand harsh weather and impact from elements. And the big plus is that it comes with features long abandoned by other models, such as an extensive add-on, focus stacking, extra lenses, and many more.




Pros


◆ Impressive Microscope mode


◆ Takes shots in raw format


◆ 4K, high-speed video quality


Cons


◆ The low image resolution of 12MP


◆ A bit expensive


◆ Lack of complete Manual control



Conclusion


The GoPro might still be one of the popular action camera brands, but there are also other outstanding alternatives. Whatever reason for seeking out a different model, you can be sure of getting high-quality shots and videos from any of the GoPro action camera competitors mentioned above.


You don't have to settle with the norm or worry about your budget when you can get yourself the best knock off GoPro or its top alternatives models. 


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