Action cameras are the perfect solution for anyone looking to capture their adventures in the moment. GoPro makes some of the best quality action cameras on the market; however, they command a high price. As of this writing, Go Pro's flagship model, the Hero7 Black, can easily cost you over $300. Fortunately, since action cameras have seen a surge in popularity, there are a number of GoPro alternatives that won't break the bank.
Contents1. Yi 4K+2. Akaso EK7000 Pro3. Polaroid Cube4. VTech Kidizoom Action CameraThe Chinese manufacturer Yi is causing a sensation in the world of action cameras. They've gradually earned a reputation for high-quality products at a fraction of the price, and the Yi 4K+ might be their most impressive action camera yet. The Yi 4K+ is a bit more expensive than the other cameras on this list with a $199 price tag, but it's amazing value considering what you're getting.
We know what you're thinking; what's the catch? In case you get what you pay for, the image quality of the EK7000 Pro isn't as good as the GoPro or Yi 4K+. This may be because 4K video capture is limited to 25 frames per second. Despite this, the camera enjoys excellent user reviews on Amazon, scoring a solid 4.4 out of 5 stars. If you're looking for a feature-packed action camera that doesn't lighten the wallet, give this one a try. Also check out Make Tech Easier's review of the Akaso V50 Pro.
Chances are the first thing you think of when you hear the name "Polaroid" are instant photos. However, you'll be happy to know that Polaroid also makes a capable little action camera known as the Cube. At first glance the Polaroid Cube looks more like a novelty than a serious action camera, with its small size and signature rainbow stripes. However, the Cube packs some impressive features into its unassuming rubberized casing.
The Polaroid Cube is capable of recording 1080p high definition video and 6MP still images. Plus, it has a 124-degree wide-angle lens to help you capture more of the action. It also has electronic image stabilization to ensure your footage comes out crystal clear, no matter the terrain.
The Cube is super small, measuring just 1.4 inches tall and weighing just 50 grams. Plus, it has a rubberized casing to protect it from the elements and features a strong magnetic base, making mounting the camera super versatile. Admittedly, the Polaroid Cube lacks some of the more sophisticated features found in other action cameras, but at $30, you can't blame it.
If the name didn't reveal it, this one is strictly for kids. We won't mince words here, the image quality of this camera is not fantastic. That being said, it does offer some things the other cameras on this list don't. First, the battery life of the VTech Kidizoom is excellent. Action cameras have developed a reputation for poor battery life, and for good reason. Most average about an hour of footage before needing to be recharged. However, the VTech can log up to 2-1/2 hours, which means your young daredevil won't be pestering you to charge it every hour.
As we mentioned earlier, the image quality isn't great. The VTech Kidizoom will hit 480p, which is fine for younger kids, but few others. The main benefit of power resolution is that captured images have a much smaller footprint. This means kids can save tons of photos and videos to a relatively small microSD card. Finally, the VTech Kidizoom is only $40 and is built to take a beating.
What's your favorite budget GoPro alternative action camera? Let us know in the comments!
