Action cameras have become popular in recent years. These are small video cameras designed to be used in extreme conditions. Initially, their main use is first-person video recording.
However, they are increasingly used for recording in places where professional equipment does not arrive. In recent years, the arrival on the market of new brands, mainly Chinese, has helped to increase the available supply.
At the same time, their price has been reduced, which helps to make them more accessible to the general public. You no longer need to be a professional athlete to think about buying a sports camera & I’ll tell you why under a 200 USD budget is enough to pick a great deal.
We invite you to discover the Best Action Camera Under 200 Dollars on the market, according to consumer reviews, and also read The Ultimate Guide To Action Camera Section at the bottom of this page.
Best Action Camera Under 200 Dollars
Table of Contents
The Reason Why Everyone Is obsessing About Best Action camera?
Action Camera also called “Sports Camera”.
If you want to spend a bit less you can read my another article on Best Action Camera Under 100
Best Action Camera Under 200 Dollars | Comparison Table 2021
Affordable Picks | High Quality | 5-Stars
| Camera Name | Resolution | Water Proof | Price $$ |
|---|---|---|---|
| GoPro Hero Silver | 4K 30 | Yes | |
| AKASO V50 Elite | 4K 60 FPS | Yes | |
| Campark X30 Cheap Price Tag | 4K 60 FPS | Yes | |
| Yi 4K | 4K 30 | Yes | |
| Sony HDRAS50 | 4K / 24 fps | Yes | |
| ThiEYE T5e | 4K 30 | Yes | |
| Insta360 Go | 4K / 30 fps | Yes |
7 Top Action Camera Under 200 Dollars | 2021 Reviews
1. GoPro Hero 7 Silver Best high-end Action Cam for 200 USD
About:
This camera films in high definition 4K. The quality of the images is rated breathtaking on the reviews of the best tests. The GoPro Hero 7 Silver – 4K HD Digital Action Camera, 10 MP Silver also shoots burst mode photos with 15 photos in one second with 10-megapixel resolution.
This model has voice commands such as “GoPro take photo” or “GoPro record video” in order to trigger its options while keeping your hands free.
The GoPro Hero 7 Silver – 4K HD Digital Action Camera, 10 MP Silver can be attached to a helmet or a bicycle handlebar for example. This model is waterproof but according to the opinions of the best comparative tests, it is recommended to put it in its protective case beyond 6 meters deep.
Also Read: Best Beginner Cameras For Photography
Design:
The Hero 7 Black retains the same rubberized design that was first introduced with the Hero 5 Black. Side-by-side, it looks almost identical to the Hero 6 Black. Both cameras have the same 2-inch touchscreen, button placement, and the same ports (USB-C and micro HDMI). They even use the same replaceable batteries.
Features:
It has a 1.95 inch LCD screen. Its dimension is 6.2 cm x 4.4 cm x 2.8 cm which makes it a really very small model to take it everywhere.
Video stabilization
Say goodbye to tremors. HERO7 Silver records smooth, steady video in all circumstances, whether you’re skiing, underwater, or chasing your dog.
According to the best comparison, its weight of 118 grams is an important point for this kind of device. Battery life is approximately 1 hour. This model is guaranteed for 1 year as specified in the best reviews.
Vertical shots
Capture photos and videos in portrait orientation. Ideal for sharing them on Snapchat and Instagram.
Always waterproof to 10 meters without a housing, the Hero7 range is equipped for its White and Silver versions with an integrated battery. Only the Black version benefits from a removable Lithium- + ion battery of 1220 mAh. The latter also benefits from extensive stabilization that offers ultra-fluid content.
Voice control
Stay in the moment. Control your HERO7 Silver hands-free with voice commands like “GoPro Take Photo” and “GoPro Record Video”.
The cameras will be able to film in slow motion and connect via Wi-Fi / Bluetooth to the GoPro application. Another point optimized by the American brand, the audio recording quality. In fact, you will benefit from two microphones on the Hero7 White / Silver and three on the powerful Hero7 Black Edition. We also find the presence of a GPS on the Silver and the Black which will allow you to insert a certain amount of information on your videos, such as the speed or the number of km traveled.
Easy sharing with the GoPro app
Instantly share your images. Your photos and videos are uploaded directly to the GoPro app so you can post or message, Twitter or Snapchat in the blink of an eye
Connectivity:
Once again, GoPro used its premium version to prove all its technological know-how. First, in line, the Hero7 Black makes live streaming possible and even offers a practical HDMI port to deport the display and consider a professional “setup”.
- The image stabilization is of very high quality
- It comes with a curved stand and a USB C cable
- Full HD shots to make them slow motion images
- The battery is not removable
2. AKASO V50 Elite 4K WIFI Sports Action Camera
About:
AKASO V50 Elite looks similar to the most common action cameras, the dimensions are very compact, it is also very light, and it is made entirely of well-made gray plastic.
Design:
On the front, there is the lens, the Power button (which also serves to change photo/video mode and exit the menus), the 4K 60FPS and AKASO V50 Elite logos, and the status LED.
On the left side, there are up and down buttons, while on the right the speaker, the micro USB port, the micro HDMI port (for connection to an external display), and the micro SD slot (a class 10 U3 recommended).
In the upper part, there is the shutter/video recording button (which also acts as WiFi activation and selection within the menus), while in the lower part the tripod connection and the battery slot.
Finally, in the back, there is the 2-inch IPS touch screen, with status LEDs.
Also Read: Best point and shoot the camera under 300 usd.
Features:
the Akaso V50 Elite sports camera owes its image quality to 4K technology allowing capture of up to 60fps. Simply put, this is the technology used in professional motion picture cameras, resulting in pleasing and vivid picture and scene details.
You can also adjust the viewing angle to your liking, in addition to the automatic intervention of the brightness or white balance adjustment. Distortion calibration and Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS) technology all contribute to high-quality graphics.
As action equipment, the first vocation of the Akaso V50 Elite sports camera is in dynamic or even extreme activities. By installing it in its waterproof case, you offer yourself the opportunity to record your underwater explorations or your aquatic exploits such as surfing or sailing.
In addition, the presence of the remote control makes it easier for you to use when you attach the camera to a third party. Otherwise, if you practice the exercise yourself, you can still initiate the recording via voice control. You can thus decide to film your actions in normal, slow motion or on the contrary, in accelerated mode.
Connectivity:
The included charger has a double charging slot, very convenient for charging the two included batteries at the same time, which must be powered via the included USB cable (or any other similar cable) with the USB port of the PC or with a special wall adapter; during the recharging phase the status LED will be red, but as soon as the batteries are ready it will be green.
- TRUE 4K30fps by iCatch
- Good 40M waterproof case.
- Come with 2 Batteries.
- Remote control included.
- High build quality.
- Microphone too sensitive to the wind
3. Campark X30 Action camera with longest battery life
About:
The Campark Action Cam X20 is an Action Camera in rigid and black plastic, of classic rectangular shape, complete enough to be a medium-low range cam: it is resistant and certainly has many appreciable features.
Design:
Once removed from its rigid plastic protection we can appreciate its classic small size and better see that there is a 0.96 ″ LCD front display, which we normally find on high-end Action Cams, such as GoPro: with this, we will be able to keep the battery charge level, video duration and memory inserted indication.
The use is then the standard one, using the button located on the right side for the menu navigation commands, from which each function can be adjusted quickly and quickly.
If you are looking for a Mirrorless camera, I want you to read my great guide on Best Mirrorless Camera Under 500
Features:
This 2-inch display screen allows us to quickly change the cam settings, view what is being filmed, and review the footage directly on the spot.
Equipped with a 20 Megapixel sensor, capable of shooting at 4K with a framerate of 60 fps, the x30 allows you to shoot in situations of strong dynamism such as a very bumpy descent or tackle a bike park.
The returned image is professional, as are the photos that have nothing to envy to those of a high-end smartphone or a small camera.
Battery: Unlike competitors, this cam comes with two 1350mAh batteries, to allow you to have a long shooting range.
Each battery lasts about two hours, if we carry them both with us we would have about 4 hours of video footage.
It comes with a waterproof case with the Cam and all the accessories: there is also the remote control, necessary to take pictures and shoot videos at a distance, without having to physically move the Cam, which obviously must already be turned on, at a distance maximum of about 10 meters.
Connectivity:
Also on this Action Cam, there is Wi-Fi connectivity, which can be used easily by downloading the "CamKing" application on our smartphone which turns it into a sort of additional remote control: the two devices will connect quickly and we can then enter the password " 12345678 ".
If you are Vlogger and looking for a blogging Camera with a flip screen, Read our great guide here.
- Two 1350mAh batteries
- Can shoot 4hours of video
- Helmet and handlebar attachments
- Auto-adjusting the ISO sensitivity
- Waterproofing is guaranteed up to 40 meters
- Doesn’t come with an SD Card
4. YI 4K Sports Camera Under 200 USD
About:
Yi 4K action camera presents an immersive film of you and your world. This action camera can combine 4K30 video recording, a built-in touch screen, and up to 2 hours of battery life. Built with a next-generation Ambarella chip, Sony image sensor, and a 7-layer glass lens, it records 4K/30fps at 60mbps, four times the quality of 1080p.
Equipped with an impact-resistant 2.19" GorillaGlass LCD touch screen, you can shoot and preview intuitively with the touch of a finger.
YI uses the first 1200mAh rechargeable high voltage 4.4V lithium-ion battery to record up to 120/120/4K/30fps video on a per charge. The innovative thermal management system quickly releases heat to reduce overheating while recording in high resolution.
The YI 4K's all-in-one impact-resistant design fits in your pocket and can accommodate anything. With new colors and high-quality finishes, it's not only a camera for taking great photos and videos, but it's also the fashion accessory you've been waiting for.
Also Read: Best Cheap Digital Camera Under 50
Design:
3.35 ounces of state-of-the-art imaging technology. The YI 4K's all-in-one shockproof design fits in your pocket and can accommodate anything. With new colors and high-quality finishes, it's not only a camera for taking great photos and videos, As well as the fashion accessories you have been waiting for.
Features:
Resolution: Record high-resolution video at 4k30/1080p120/720p240 and capture 12 million photos using photo and video modes such as timelapse, slow motion, timer, and burst. Yi 4K action cameras are cameras with state-of-the-art technology that offers the highest-fidelity, versatility, and ease of use.
Display: Customized with a high resolution, high retina 330ppi touch screen for an intuitive experience. 2.19-inch gorilla glass to withstand scratches and everyday impacts.
It can be viewed from an angle of 160°. You won't miss the perfect shot on the 640 x 360 widescreen display, and you can preview and shoot quickly and easily.
Battery: Designed with AmperextTechnology's 1200mAh high voltage 4.4VLi-ion rechargeable battery. Yi 4K is by your side with up to 8 hours of standby time and can record 4K/30fps video for up to 120 minutes on one charge.
World-leading technology
Built with a new generation of AmbarellaA9SE75 chips, Sony IMX377 image sensors, and all glass in seven layers. The YI 4K action camera supports first-class Festa rings and provides ultra-clear 4K3840x2160 video resolution and 12M pixel photos even in low light.
Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS): Built-in electronic image stabilization (EIS) with a 3-axis gyroscope and 3-axis accelerometer detects changes in position and movement. When the camera is tilted, s waved, singed, or impacted, the sensor uses cross-border image correction algorithms to compensate for changes and produce a stable video.
Edit and share like a pro in the YI Camera app
Quick and convenient video editing, image/video filters, and music options. The YI Camera app not only allows you to record and edit epic videos but also allows you to share them instantly on social media. It's easy for even beginners to use, but it's designed for professional outings. Never have to fight a computer again!
Connectivity:
Support 802.11a/b/g/n 2.4G/5GHz and anti-interference technology with BCM43340 telecommunications semiconductor solution. Download at speeds of up to 30Mbps and spend more time shooting, editing, and sharing.
- 120/4K30/fps video on a per charge
- Dual-band high speed Wi-Fi
- Integrated LCD Gorilla Glass Retina Touchscreen
- None
5. Sony HDRAS50 Action Camera Under 200 USD
About:
Bike downhill at the break-fast speed at sunset? Going to kayaking at night? Don't forget to pick Sony HDRAS50 Thanks to the improved clarity of the images provided by Sony's Exmor R CMOS sensor and the low light sensitivity with dramatically reduced particle roughness, the images still look great.
From the rockiest trails to the wildest waves, we recommend shooting crisp, clear videos for viewers to enjoy. SteadyShot normalizes the vibrations that images bring to the sensor. This means reduced motion blur and noise levels even in low light.
Design:
Features:
The rugged and compact HDR-AS50 action camera allows you to enjoy playful POV movie shooting in the included underwater housing. The casual style promotes everyday filmmaking and advanced features (SteadyShot, 4K time-lapse shooting, etc.) make it easy and fun.
Also Read: Best Budget Underwater Camera To Capture Great Moments
Thanks to the new intuitive user interface, it has never been easier to select and change features. All menus are easily accessible. Enjoy the perfect camera tuning experience and find the perfect setting for your shooting needs. You can also turn the camera on and off from a smartphone with Imaging EdgeMobile.
Sony's image processing engine faithfully reproduces the texture and detail seen with the naked eye with ultra-high-speed processing. Combined with large-scale integration (LSI) for faster processing, BIONZ X delivers more natural detail, more realistic images, richer tonal gradients, and less noise, whether in photos or movies.
Capture a wide-angle view with Zeiss lenses or choose a standard yet stunning view. Either way, you're always going to capture beautiful shots of the most challenging ski areas, mountain trails, swirling rapids, or asphalt roads with pits.
Discover new flexibility to change your shots in action for dramatic effects and increased emotions. For example, you can switch the display angle between "Wide" 2 and "Arrow" on two levels. In addition, the fully adjustable zoom mode allows you to change the zoom while shooting.
Make great movies even better with great audio. With the built-in stereo microphone, you can capture the sound of your adventure naturally in a two-track stereo. The low-noise, clear sound enhances the most sophisticated film productions you can produce.
Time-lapse capture makes it easy to create time-lapse movies with high-quality 4K still images taken at specified intervals. Then action Cam MovieCreator3 or ActionCam App (v. 2.0)4 only converts these images into stunning time-lapse movies.
See how easy it is to incorporate Highlight Movie Maker into face detection for automatic editing in-camera. Highlight Movie Maker supports a variety of scenes, including sports performances as well as everyday situations and trips, by automatically selecting highlights from sequences to create highlight movies with background music. Share your work right away using your smartphone.
Connectivity:
The built-in tripod socket allows you to quickly connect the action cam to the tripod for a stable shot.
In addition, a USB connection has been placed on the back of the camera to facilitate the installation of accessories.
- New intuitive user interface for easy operation
- 120 fps at HD resolution for slo-mo video
- Action Cam Movie Creator for Easy Creative Editing
- Convenient Loop Recording with duration options of 5, 20, 60, 120 minutes
- Not in the list
6. ThiEYE T5e best action camera For Teens
About:
Action cameras manufactured by Thieye have always been known for their amazing quality and cost performance.
The action camera T5e we plan to see today is one of the first action cameras to feature a true 4K, priced under $200, and has taken the industry a long way. Much more competitive action camera.
Design:
Thieye Action Camera's own 360° swivel mount is one of my favorite mounts because it can be tweaked just by rotating it.
That said, it's not compatible with more universal GoPro or SJCAM mounts because of its slightly different shape.
It's also equipped with a 60m waterproof case, so the T5e is the best place to film underwater activities like diving and snorkeling.
Thanks to a slight design adjustment, the ThiEYET5e can stand out from the products of other manufacturers, like a shimmering front with the manufacturer's logo.
On the front, there is a power button and two indicator LEDs. Right next to it is a 170° wide-angle lens with an F2.8 lens.
Features:
Video Quality: The ThiEYE T5e is equipped with an Ambarella processor and a Sony image sensor. This is a fairly well-known image sensor that many other brands also use in midrange action cameras. Yes, this action camera can also record video in native 4K resolution. It can run at up to 30fps. This is great for regular videos. It's not great for recording fast-moving objects, but it supports 120 fps, so you can always lower it down to 1080p.
Battery life is average. At 4K resolution, the battery maintained exactly 58 minutes, while at 1080p it was possible to record 83 minutes. The charging time is 2.5 hours.
Overall, the accessories made by Thieye are of very good quality.
Connectivity:
As always, it has built-in Wi-Fi so you can get a live preview of the image you're shooting. This is also useful for composing. Of course, there is a free downloadable app that complements the camera.
It also has a Micro USB socket, micro HDMI socket to accommodate a micro SD memory card slot.
- Two batteries included
- WiFi and Bluetooth
- Native 4K recording possibility
- Good picture and video quality
- Scene modes and effects
- Short battery
7. Insta360 GO best budget action camera
About:
If the weight and size of the camera are what matters most to you, then this is one of the best action cameras under $200.
It is one of the most interesting cameras I've tried because it's smart, efficient, and easy to use, unlike any other stable action camera I've ever seen.
This stable 18.3-gram camera is almost thumb-sized, but it can shoot HD video, perform hyper-lapse easily, and move you to most places you want to shoot.
Design:
The overall design is very smooth, easy to hold, and surprisingly small. The oval design is stylish and comfortable, with fisheye lenses protruding from the upper body and buttons at the bottom at the back.
It's so small that you can easily put your finger in a shot if you're not careful, but that's why Go comes with several accessories such as easy clips, magnetic pendants, pivot mounts, sticky bases, and angle wedges.
Features:
The Insta360 GB can be captured up to 200 times using a charging case. You can also capture 20 minutes in a session before you need to upgrade to a charging case. The charger allows Go to handle about an hour of shooting, depending on various factors.
Shooting modes include standard video, intervals, slow motion of 15 or 30 seconds, creation of 5-minute videos with hyper-lapse of up to 30 minutes, and time intervals of up to 1.5 minutes. It's time, but I've never tried such a long time interval to see if the battery lasts that long.
QuickCapture is definitely the fastest and easiest way to capture anything, saving battery power so you can take photos longer. You have to remember the effect every time you press the button, but these options can also be changed from the app when connected to the camera.
Pressing the button will start a 30-second video, and pressing it again will stop recording 30 seconds ago. Pressing the button twice triggers hyper-lapse while pressing the button three times records slow motion at 100FPS.
Once you're captured, you can edit clips in the Insta360 Go app, while FlashCut Auto-Edit lets you create engaging videos using built-in AI.
However, the app's editing tools allow you to crop, adjust colors, add music, create role effects, and change the speed of time intervals.
Go's video and image quality is very impressive, especially when it comes to the size of the device. Shooting outdoors or in bright conditions will produce high-quality results in HD.
Connectivity:
You can also control Go via a phone via a wired connection to the charging case or Bluetooth.
- Stunning videos and photos
- Hyper-lapse and slow motion
- Great auto-editing tool
- None
How to Choose The Best Action Camera Under 200 Dollars | Ultimate Guide 2021
Would You Rather Choose Best Action camera Or Workout?
Action Cam, "sports" cameras, action cameras, adventure camera, Travel Cam, Underwater Cam...
Whatever name you choose, these small video cameras have a certain success, a little surprised at the start, but which does not deny itself and of which GoPro has was the initiator.
But competition has greatly increased since then and many brands have adopted this format. Indeed, these cameras have the advantage of compactness, they can also withstand shocks or even be completely waterproof. Thus, they are the allies of choice for filming your sporting exploits or simply your vacation.
Also Read: Camera Buying Guide
Build Quality
The presence or absence of a protective box, physical buttons, a touch screen, a Wi-Fi remote control, a USB-C port. are all elements to take into account. Rectangular or cylindrical shape, vertical or horizontal positioning are others to keep in mind.
In addition, learn about the features of the model you are interested in, its connectivity, and its mobile application: a large number of shooting modes, for example, multiply the creative possibilities, and the possibility of using your smartphone as a screen. remote monitoring is a very interesting plus.
Footage Quality
The video quality, with the possibility or not of filming in Ultra HD / 4K, or in simple Full HD, and the different recording rates are placed at the top of the list of criteria that must condition your choice. We also advise you to avoid product filming at less than 24 frames per second because jerks will be visible. Beyond the fluidity, a high cadence allows achieving beautiful slow motion, useful for athletes.
Today, you can expect a product capable of filming in 4K at a minimum of 30 frames per second, or in Full HD at 120 fps. All the action cams in our selection meet these video capture requirements.
Image Stabilization
Most often, action cams are based on electronic image stabilization, sometimes supported by optical stabilization in the case of Sony for example. However, it should be noted that the image processors and correction algorithms now offer efficient stabilization, at least on the selected products. Remember in any case that a good stabilization system is very important for most sporting practices, and that, as it is generally an electronic stabilization, it requires real know-how in terms of software, not all brands. are not so good at it.
Lens
Accessories?
Small and light, they are easy to use and can be attached just about anywhere and on anything thanks to a variety of accessories. The number of these is an important criterion of choice because each practice has its accessory. To ride a bike you will need a compatible rigging system, to film underwater you will need housing or an action cam with a waterproof design. Make sure that the ecosystem of the chosen model offers you the accessories you need.
Battery:
Action cams generally offer relatively little autonomy, the counterpart of such a compact format. They tend to be around an hour of recording. Some do a little more, others a little less. In any case, make sure you have a removable battery so you can use a second if necessary.
Water Resistance:
Waterproof, impact-resistant, sub-zero temperature, Think about whether you really need these features.
In general, the more features you need, the fewer choices you have. If that helps, most people agree with a regular camera. This means that you can take advantage of more photo and video shooting features with higher quality for the same amount compared to choosing a weatherproof camera.
Connectivity
Ease of use
FAQs
The strength and waterproofness of the case
The vocation of an action cam is to "suffer". Exposed to wind, rain, mud or even snow, it must not only be solid but if possible resistant to water. If a majority of "Gopro" are sold with a waterproof case, more and more models are waterproof without accessories.
The type of mount: GoPro or owner?
While most manufacturers have adopted the mounting format deployed by GoPro, some are betting on proprietary hooks. Pay attention to this detail when buying, especially since it can open the door to an extensive catalog of accessories.
Conclusion
Top-Rated Action Camera Under 200 Dollars
Also Read:
Leave a Reply