Top Action Camera Brands for Thrilling Adventures

In the ever-evolving world of technology, action cameras have carved out a significant niche, capturing adrenaline-fueled moments in stunning high-definition. As the market expands, several brands have consistently stood out, offering innovative features, robust durability, and exceptional image quality. From waterproof designs to stabilization technology, these brands are setting the standard for capturing your adventures with precision and ease. For a deeper dive into the top contenders and to find the best match for your adventurous lifestyle, explore the detailed list below.

Illustration of action camera

Best brands of action camera in 2025

GoPro

GoPro, founded in 2002, is a leading American technology company that manufactures action cameras and related software, achieving a 22.7% global market share in 2020 and a remarkable 97% in the US drone action camera market in 2019; in 2023, they sold 3 million cameras, marking a 6% increase from the previous year, with 74% of their Q4 2023 camera revenue coming from cameras priced at or above $400; demonstrating their strong position, GoPro has also invested around $169.58 million in global sales and marketing in 2023 to further push sales.

DJI

DJI, a dominant force in the action camera market since their first Osmo Action in 2019, has seen their market share explode to over 37% by 2024, with the Osmo Pocket 3 capturing 24.3% of the Japanese market alone, while offering a range of models like the Action 4 with a 1/1.3-inch sensor, 10-bit D-Log M color performance, and 160 minutes of battery time, making them a top choice for content creators and adventurers. You can explore their products further.

Sony

While Sony is a well-known brand in digital cameras, including action cameras, they have not released a new action camera since 2016 with the FDR-X3000 model, which featured Balanced Optical SteadyShot. Currently, GoPro holds the largest market share at 47%, followed by Canon at 46.5% and Sony at 26.1% within the broader digital camera market. However, the action camera market is projected to reach $29.94 billion by 2037, with the professional segment expected to hold 60.3% of the market share, driven by the need for high-quality cameras for filming and sports events. Action camera purchases were driven by 80% post-pandemic outdoor activities in 2023, with 47.2% of sales in the sports segment. You can find more about their action cameras.

Insta360

Insta360, recognized by TIME as a top innovator, has established itself as a leading action camera producer with its X series, maintaining over 50% market share for five consecutive years in the panoramic camera sector. The new Insta360 X4 boasts 8K resolution and a larger 2.5" screen, while the Insta360 Ace Pro features Leica optics with a 1/1.3" sensor, all showcasing the brand's commitment to innovation. Insta360's cameras include advanced AI features that simplify content creation, making them a favorite among adventurers and content creators. Insta360's market share was reported as 35% in 2020, surpassing GoPro and Ricoh, and they are expected to reach USD 9.18 billion by 2029. You can find more information on their products at Insta360's website.

Akaso

Akaso, established in 2013, has quickly become a leading action camera brand, selling over half a million units annually, offering a wide range of affordable options with features like 4K video recording, image stabilization, and waterproof capabilities, capturing dynamic moments for both vlogging and sports. With their commitment to sustainability, they actively cooperate with athletes and promote public welfare, further solidifying their position in the market.

Garmin

Garmin, a notable player in the action camera market, offers models like the VIRB Ultra 30, known for its 4K video capabilities, voice control, and G-Metrix data overlays, capturing speed and G-force; although the action camera market is moderately consolidated with competitors like GoPro and Insta360, Garmin's products are popular among adventure enthusiasts for their robust features and ANT+ connectivity, enabling remote control. The wearable camera market, which includes action cameras, is expected to reach $29.38 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 14.07%, while the total action camera market is projected to reach $29.94 billion by 2037, demonstrating consistent growth. Garmin's focus on integrating data and connectivity features makes their cameras a reliable choice for capturing and sharing action-packed moments, especially in the professional sector that accounted for 73.7% of market share in 2023. You can explore their range of action cameras on the official Garmin website.

Yi Technology

Yi Technology, founded in 2014, has emerged as a strong contender in the action camera market, offering a range of devices with impressive video quality, often compared to GoPros, at more affordable prices. While North America held the largest market share at 43% in 2022, the brand continues to expand globally and innovate with features like 4K recording and image stabilization. Additionally, YI Technology has also expanded into other areas such as home security cameras and dash cameras; the company ships its products to over 186 countries and has won awards for product design and smart tech solutions. You can explore their range of products on their official website.

Olympus

Olympus, a long-standing brand in rugged cameras since 2006, entered the action camera market with models like the TG-Tracker, which captures 4K video with a 204° field of view and includes sensor data logging. While not currently listed as a top contender in the 2024 action camera market share, Olympus (now OM System) continues to produce highly durable cameras such as the Tough TG-7, known for its waterproof, shockproof, crushproof, freezeproof, and dustproof capabilities, which are popular for underwater photography and tough environments; the brand has a strong history in rugged cameras and is considered a key player in the broader action camera market, which is expected to reach USD 9.18 billion by 2029.

Kodak

Kodak, a brand with a history in imaging, offers action cameras like the Pixpro SP360, known for its 360-degree capture capabilities, allowing users to record immersive videos and stills, and the Pixpro WPZ2, a rugged, waterproof option; although they don't currently hold a dominant market share, their cameras aim to provide quality and affordability, with models supporting 4K video and various recording modes. The brand provides software for editing and sharing content, particularly for 360° videos on platforms like YouTube, and while the action camera market is experiencing growth with a CAGR of 9.13% from 2024-2030, Kodak's focus remains on delivering reliable and accessible options for adventurers. You can explore their action camera line.

SJCAM

Established in 2010, SJCAM has become a globally recognized action camera producer, recognized as a top competitor in over 40 countries, and has experienced significant growth, with revenue increasing from a few million in 2015 to approximately $75 million in 2020. SJCAM offers a range of affordable, feature-packed cameras, including popular models like the SJ4000 series, and they continue to innovate with new releases like the dual-lens SJ20.