Our car experts choose every product we feature. We may earn money from the links on this page.
Our Favorite Action Cameras for Capturing Motoring Adventures
Relive and share epic drives and world-beating lap times with the best action cameras for cars.
In today's fast-paced world, capturing every thrilling moment on the go has become a must for adventure seekers and road trip enthusiasts alike. Thanks to their rugged design, compact size, and exceptional video quality, action cameras have emerged as the perfect companion to document your automotive adventures.
If you're looking for the perfect action camera to mount on your car, you're in the right place. In this article, we'll dive into the world of action cameras, exploring the best models available, from entry-level options to top-tier models capable of cinema-grade video capture.
Our Top Picks
What to Consider When Buying an Action Camera
The action camera market is crowded, so picking the right one can be a daunting task. Here are a few things you need to consider before purchasing one:
Image quality
Every camera on this list can record at least 4K video at 30 frames per second (fps). If you want more resolution or higher frame rates (for slow-mo capture), get a camera with the appropriate specifications.
You’ll also need to consider the resolution for still images. All cameras capable of recording at least 4K need an 8-megapixel sensor, but most feature a 12-megapixel sensor to allow for digital cropping when stabilizing the footage.
Durability
Unlike conventional cameras, one of the selling points of action cameras is their ability to take on extreme environments. The best action cameras for cars will be ruggedized, capable of taking dirt, water, and whatever else you throw its way. For some, you’ll need a separate protective case to achieve that ruggedness. Make sure you get the protective accessories you’ll need based on how you plan to use the camera.
Battery life
Action cameras use a lot of battery power, so look for a camera with long battery life, add-on battery attachments, or the ability to swap out batteries quickly.
Mounting options
Most every action camera you’ll come across will have a 1/4-inch threaded hole on the bottom for mounts, tripods, etc. If that hole isn’t integrated into the device itself, it’ll certainly be included on an optional case you can put the camera within.
The quarter-inch hole can be used with any standard tripod and most photo accessories, such as grips and suction mounts. GoPro has standardized a different bolt/nut attachment, which it and other manufacturers use to connect action cameras to various first- and third-party mounting accessories.
Image stabilization
This might get overlooked among other specifications, but it’s just as critical as resolution and battery life in automotive action cameras. The last thing you want is shaky footage, so get a camera with proper electronic image stabilization. GoPro leads the pack here, but DJI is quickly catching up, and both Insta360 and Sony have their own capable technologies. As they say, you get what you pay for.
Connectivity
Consider whether the camera has Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity, so you can easily transfer footage to your smartphone or other devices. You’ll also want to ensure any accompanying mobile application will work on your smartphone or tablet and is user-friendly, so you can focus on capturing and sharing the footage, not troubleshooting a barely-supported application.
Price
Finally, consider your budget and look for a camera that offers the features you need at a price you can afford. Here are some of our favorite action cameras for cars.
GoPro HERO11 BLack
GoPro is to action cameras what Kleenex is to tissues, and the HERO11 Black shows why. This rugged action camera can shoot 5.3K video at 60 frames per second and has unrivaled image stabilization, offering stable footage regardless of the terrain's toughness.
The HERO11 Black is waterproof, has a front-facing display making it easier to compose your shot, and has a range of valuable features, including voice control, Wi-Fi connectivity to GoPro's impressive mobile apps, and GPS for tracking the location of your travels.
One of the more distinctive features of this camera is that it captures images and videos using a 7:8 aspect ratio, meaning you capture more in the frame (relative to the standard 16:9 format) and have more room to crop when editing.
Overall, the GoPro Hero11 Black is a highly-capable action camera that is perfect for anyone looking to capture their automotive adventures in stunning detail.
Product Specs
| Video Resolutions | 5.3K at 60 fps, 4K at 120 fps, 1080p at 240 fps |
|---|---|
| Still Resolution | 24.7 megapixels |
DJI is most known for its drones, but it also makes capable action cameras. The company's Osmo Action 3 uses a 12-megapixel sensor and wide-angle lens with a 155-degree field of view to capture DCI 4K footage at up to 60 fps, UHD 4K video at 120 fps, and 1080p footage at 240 fps (that's 8x slow-mo).
The camera can record up to 160 minutes on a single charge and features fast charging for quickly topping off the batteries. Other features include voice controls, waterproof sealing, and DJI's RockSteady 3.0 image stabilization technology that keeps footage looking smooth on bumpy roads and at high speeds.
Finally, the camera has built-in microphones for stereo audio recording, so you can capture high-quality sounds without needing external microphones. It's not quite as impressive as GoPro's HERO11 Black, but it's a very close second and still a fantastic option, especially considering the savings.
Product Specs
| Video Resolutions | DCI 4K at 60 fps, UHD 4K at 120 fps, 1080p at 240 fps |
|---|---|
| Still Resolution | 12.0 megapixels |
AKASO Brave 4
If you want the best picture quality for the least amount of money, your best bet is the Akaso Brave 4. It costs a fraction of its competitors while still capturing 4K video at up to 30 fps and 1080p footage at up to 60 fps.
It also features anti-shake stabilization, but don't expect this camera's footage to be as smooth as the GoPro's or DJI's. Unlike the other cameras in this list, this one requires an included case if you plan on getting it wet or dirty; this adds bulk and does make it more cumbersome to change settings and swap out batteries. However, Akaso does include a wireless remote for starting and stopping recording, which is a nice touch.
It won't compare in features and functionalities to our other picks, but the Akaso is a fantastic option if you want to record your adventures without breaking the bank.
Product Specs
| Video Resolutions | 4K at 30 fps, 2K at 30 fps, 1080p at 60 fps |
|---|---|
| Still Resolution | 20.0 megapixels |
The Sony RX0 II is a compact, rugged camera with a 1-Type 15.3-megapixel image sensor, a Zeiss 24mm f/4 lens, and Sony's advanced image processing technology. Together, the large sensor, quality lens, and processing chops will give you some of the best footage you'll find in an action camera.
The camera can record 4K videos at 30fps, full HD videos at up to 120 fps, and has built-in electronic image stabilization. It also offers creative shooting modes like Super Slow Motion, time-lapse, and Sony's S-Log2 picture profile, which gives you more color correction flexibility when editing your video in post-production.
The RX0 II is waterproof, dustproof, and durable, so it should handle all of your imaging needs inside and outside your vehicle. It has a tilting LCD screen, built-in Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth connectivity for easy image transfer and remote control via a smartphone or tablet.
Product Specs
| Video Resolutions | 4K at 30 fps, 1080p at 120 fps |
|---|---|
| Still Resolution | 15.3 megapixels |
Insta360 Go 2
It's not for everyone, but if you want to capture 360-degree footage of your adventures, Insta360's GO 2 action camera is what you'll want. This ultra-compact camera is likely as small as your vehicle's key fob and can capture 2560 x 1440 pixel videos and 9-megapixel still images, stitched together from the camera's two sensors and lenses.
It features integrated electronic image stabilization, and uses Bluetooth and Wi-Fi to connect to Insta360's Android and iOS editing apps. And, it's waterproof. The camera is only available with 32GB or 64GB of internal storage, but photos and videos can quickly be transferred to mobile devices, freeing up space.
Something else to remember with this camera is that editing 360-degree footage and correctly displaying it is more challenging than with standard action cameras. But if you want immersion above all else, this compact action camera is the way to go.
Product Specs
| Video Resolutions | 1440p at 30 fps, 1080p at 120 fps |
|---|---|
| Still Resolution | 9.0 megapixels |
Drift Innovation Ghost 4K+
While any of these action cameras can be used with motorcycles, Drift's line of Ghost cameras is specifically for motorcyclists. The cameras feature a low-profile design, perfect for mounting to handlebars or helmets, and the Ghost 4K+ can record 4K video at up to 30 fps and 120 fps when dropped down to 1080p resolution.
Where the Ghost excels is in battery life. Drift states the camera can record for up to three hours continuously with the included battery and for two additional hours (five total) with the add-on battery module. Other features include stereo microphones, an included external microphone, and a DVR mode that effectively turns the Ghost 4K+ into a motorcycle continuously-recording dash cam when plugged into a power supply while riding.
We wouldn't recommend this for vehicles, but if you prefer two wheels over one, this is a solid solution with a unique design better suited for riding motorcycles.
Product Specs
| Video Resolutions | 4K at 30 fps, 1080p at 120 fps |
|---|---|
| Still Resolution | 12.0 megapixels |
FAQs
What are the key features to look for when choosing an action camera?
First, look for a camera with a high-quality image sensor and resolution, as this ensures sharp and detailed footage. Ideally, opt for a model with at least 4K resolution and good low-light performance.
Second, consider the camera’s mounting options and compatibility with your car; suction cup mounts are generally the most versatile and secure choice for cars. Third, evaluate the camera’s durability and build quality, ensuring it is shockproof, dustproof, and waterproof to withstand harsh conditions.
Finally, check for additional features such as image stabilization, Wi-Fi connectivity, mobile app support, and overall usability.
How important is image stabilization for an action camera used in a car?
It's essential, as it helps minimize the impact of vibrations, sudden movements, and bumps during the drive. A camera with good image stabilization will provide smooth and stable footage, making your videos look more professional and enjoyable to watch.
Can I use my action camera as a dash cam in my car?
Yes, many action cameras can double as dashcams, thanks to their compact size and versatile mounting options. Note that using an action camera as a dash cam may require additional accessories such as a power adapter and a suitable mount for your car’s dashboard or windshield.
Why Trust Us
Car and Driver and its sibling publications at Hearst Autos are three of the most influential automotive publications in the world. With the reputations of Autoweek, Car and Driver, and Road & Track behind us, the Hearst Autos Gear Team doesn’t need to worry about our bottom line. Our picks and recommendations of products and gear are based on testing and knowledge, not hype. We'll never recommend a product that we wouldn't recommend to a friend, or purchase ourselves.
Gannon Burgett loves cameras, cars, and coffee: a perfect combination for his Hearst Autos work. His byline has appeared in USA Today, Gizmodo, TechCrunch, Digital Trends, the Detroit Free Press, and more.
The Best Car Speakers
Best Backup Cameras of 2023, Tested
Best Portable Air Compressors of 2023, Tested
Amazon Is Selling a DIY Backyard Guest House
