Key takeaways
- Best overall: GoPro HERO13 Black ($350 – $400).
- Best value: DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro ($300 – $400).
- Stabilization keeps footage smooth.
In this article
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Not sure which action cameras to buy in the US? This list keeps it short: our top pick, the best-value option, the premium choice and the models we would avoid, all with typical prices.
Prices are typical ranges, not live prices. The button on each pick opens the current price.
Quick answer
- Best overall: GoPro HERO13 Black ($350 – $400)
- Best value: DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro ($300 – $400)
- Premium pick: Insta360 X4 ($450 – $500)
Action cameras compared
| Product | Verdict | Score | Typical price |
|---|---|---|---|
| GoPro HERO13 Black | Buy | 8.9/10 | $350 – $400 |
| DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro | Buy | 8.8/10 | $300 – $400 |
| Insta360 X4 | Buy | 8.6/10 | $450 – $500 |
Our picks in detail
GoPro HERO13 Black
Verdict: Buy · Score: 8.9/10 · Typical price: $350 – $400
A safe choice: GoPro HERO13 Black earns a buy verdict with a score of 8.9/10, at a typical price of $350 – $400.
DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro
Verdict: Buy · Score: 8.8/10 · Typical price: $300 – $400
A safe choice: DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro earns a buy verdict with a score of 8.8/10, at a typical price of $300 – $400.
Insta360 X4
Verdict: Buy · Score: 8.6/10 · Typical price: $450 – $500
Insta360 X4 is one of the action cameras we would buy in the US. It scores 8.6/10 in our ratings and usually sells for $450 – $500.
What to check before you buy
- Stabilization keeps footage smooth.
- Waterproofing without a case is convenient.
- Battery life drops in cold weather; carry spares.
What to skip
Common mistake: Buying without mounts for your activity.
When to buy
The deepest discounts usually arrive during the big summer sales in July, the October sales events and Black Friday through Cyber Monday in late November. Mid-range action cameras suit most adventures.
Compare more options
Search action cameras on Amazon See top-rated action cameras on Amazon
Related reading
Frequently asked questions
What are the best action cameras in the US?
Our top pick is GoPro HERO13 Black (typically $350 – $400). For the best value, choose DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro (typically $300 – $400).
What should I check before buying action cameras?
Stabilization keeps footage smooth. Waterproofing without a case is convenient.
When is the best time to buy action cameras in the US?
The deepest discounts usually arrive during the big summer sales in July, the October sales events and Black Friday through Cyber Monday in late November.
What is the most common mistake when buying action cameras?
Buying without mounts for your activity.