The Best Action Camera Under 100$
Contents
The action cameras allow you to shoot dynamic videos in any situation. The advantages of such devices are difficult to overestimate, as they are suitable for action videos, and even for shooting personal logs.
Entry-level budget action cameras are mainly designed to introduce you to this type of device.
This camera will give you a good understanding of the basics and will help you understand how interesting photography is, and make shooting your own videos easy.
Looking at the very bottom of the market, you might think that it is difficult to choose a decent device, since it is generally believed that these budget action cameras do not have the best picture quality and rather mediocre sound quality, but still, even in the lower price range there are excellent devices.
You can’t go wrong with any of the action cameras on this list. They can vary in price and performance, but each will capture all of your memorable moments. Choose budget action cameras that suits your price and performance requirements.
Action cameras gained a sudden hype after the release of the much-awaited GoPro.
The GoPro camera’s user interface is top-notch, the iOS/Android app is great and there’s certainly no shortage of great support and custom accessories. They’re a bit like the iPhone of action cameras.
New Chinese brands are producing action cameras with features on par with the most expensive GoPros, and in some aspects superior. Most ‘GoPro’ accessories are also compatible with these cameras nowadays.
The problem arises when you’re tight on budget and can’t afford to invest in GoPros.
In cases such as these, a budget action cam is an awesome way to test the waters—without breaking the bank. They will pretty much do everything you need them to do, and certainly be better suited for filming intense action than any smartphone.
We managed to set aside the best action camera under 100$. Each camera promises to meet your expectations of video quality while most of them even offer a native 4k video.
Let me introduce my list about best action camera under 100$:
COOAU 4K 20MP Wi-Fi Action Cameras
This cheap action camera adopts the newest upgraded chip, 7 layers of optical glass lens which bring ultra HD 4K videos and 20MP photos. Featuring rich video resolution: 4K/30FPS（others only 25FPS）, 2.7K/30FPS, 1080P/60FPS, 720P/120FPS and so on, the sport cam will definitely offer you all vivid and incredible footage.
Smart anti-shake program is embedded in the chip. Therefore video fluency and stability are greatly improved when you do some extreme sports, such as parachute jumping, skiing, playing ball, etc.
Made of upgraded durable material, the case improves the waterproof level from 30M to 40M. Just enjoy scenery in deeper underwater world.
Comes with external microphone which helps a lot in places where there is much noise or it is inconvenient to collect sound, such as skiing, cycling and so on. 170° wide angle enables the camera to record more while shooting scenery or important moments.
You are able to control your camera remotely from 10 meters away with the remote control. Red button for photo taking and gray button for video recording. You do not need to hold the camera in your hands any longer.
After downloading the App LIVE DV on your smart phone (iOS/Android) or tablet, you can control the camera on your devices, including changing settings, taking pictures, recording videos and downloading files.
This camera almost covers all the functions that you need or you can imagine. For example, loop recording, time lapse recording, slow motion, self-timer, burst photo, screen saver, upside down, white balance and so on.
Main Features:
- Video Resolution: 4K/30FPS, EIS 4K/25FPS, EIS 2.7K/30FPS, EIS1080P/60FPS, EIS1080P/30FPS, EIS720P/120FPS.
- Photo Resolution: 20M/16M/12M/8M/5M
- ISO: Auto/100/200/400/800/1600/3200
- White Balance: Auto/Daylight/Cloudy/Fluorescent/Incandescent
- Warm Tip: Samsung 64GB 100MB/s (U3) MicroSDXC Evo Select Memory Card is Highly Recommended for COOAU 4K Camera (Micro SD card is not included). Please format the card in the camera before using this cheap action camera.
AMCREST GO native 4K Video Budget Action Cameras
Professional native 4K video/60FPS, 2.7K/30fps, 1080P/120FPS video, and 16MP photo resolution enables you to capture all your adventures in high resolution. This budget action camera also comes with a built-in microphone to record audio (Audio quality may be less audible when using the waterproof case).
Connect to a WiFi network to access your action camera via the Amcrest GO App. UltraHD 2.0″inch display
16-Megapixel UltraHD Lens provides a super-wide 170° field of view. H.264 compression for more efficient performance. Store up to 128GB of video with a MicroSD Card (Class 10 or higher, MicroSD Card Not Included and Sold Separately).
Place your camera into the waterproof case and securely fasten it, you can dive up to 30 meters. This underwater budget action camera is ideal for water sports such as swimming, surfing, diving, etc.
This camera also comes with a rechargeable 1050mAh battery, charger. The waterproof case allows the camera to take photos/videos up to 98 feet (30 meters).
Main Features:
- 2″ LCD Screen
- Slow-mo 1080P/120fps
- 16MP,170° Super Wide Angle Lens
- 4K Video Resolution , 1080p, MP4 Video format
- Image Resolution 16M/13M/8M
- Waterproof Case 98ft Submersion
- Opt.temperature 14°F-131°F
- Dimensions 2.3″ * 1/2″ * 1.7″
- Charge time Up to 3 hours
- support Micro SD Card: up to 128GB (not included)
- Electronic image stabilization
DRAGON TOUCH Vision 3 native 4K video Action Camera
The Dragon Touch budget action camera is fitted with an image quality sensor that records stunning video footage in native 4K Video Ultra HD resolution and captureshigh image quality at 16 megapixels.
The cheap action cameras large 2″ high definition LCDdisplay allows for easy and clear previewing.
With the App XDV you can save and share your sports action cameras moments on your phone or tablet, with a WiFi signal range of up to 33 feet. The action camera’s 2″ screen allows you to preview the video.
You may capture exciting moments with professional 4K/30FPS, 2.7K/30FPS, 1080P/60FPS video and 16MP photo resolution.
While placing the sports camera on your helmet, you can use the wireless wrist remote control to record moments in locations you can’t reach.
The remote has a wireless range of up to 10 meters (33 feet), although it is not waterproof.
You can mount the camera in the waterproof case and dive to depths of less than 30 meters.
This underwater camera also includes two 1050mAh rechargeable batteries, a charger, and accessories that are compatible with most action cameras, including Gopro.
Driving mode, image rotation, time-lapse, loop recording, slow motion, dramashot, exposure, and white balance are just a few of the capabilities available on this budget action camera. However, this action camera is not compatible with Macs.
Main Features:
- 2″ LCD Screen
- native 4K/30FPS, 2.7K/30fps, 1080P/60FPS
- Photo Resolution: 16MP,12MP, 8MP, 5MP, 2MP
- Waterproof: Up to 100 feet/30m (with included case)
- Support Micro SD Card: UP to 64GB (not included)
- Battery life: 2 Rechargeable High Capacity Batteries – 1050 mAh each
- Zoom: 4X Digital Zoom
- Electronic image stabilization
SJCAM C100+ 2K 30FPS Mini Action Camera
Big screen makes this a great budget action camera option
Whether you’re recording running, biking, flying, driving, or boating videos, the black SJCAM C100+ Action Camera from SJCAM features a waterproof case, a touchscreen, and HD resolution to capture sharp, high-quality footage no matter what the scene.
The lightweight plastic body weighs only a few ounces and is designed with a Panasonic MN34112PA CMOS sensor and a Novatek 96658 chipset.
It’s an excellent choice for those who want to capture every special moment in their lives. This camera is waterproof up to 30 meters deep, and it can be used for all sorts of water sports such as swimming, surfing, diving, etc. The built-in batteries make this product even more convenient to use.
SJCAM C100+ is a new generation of camera which can be controlled by your smartphone.
You can connect the SJCAM C100+ with your phone via the WiFi and then operate it via the APP on your phone.
The operation is easy to understand and convenient to use.
You can transfer video files from the camera to your mobile device in minutes, sharing your wonderful moments instantly!
This small camera also features zoom range from 1.0X to 4.0X.Professional 2K/30FPS video and 15MP photo resolution enables you to capture exciting moment for you.
The C100 + has an adjustable FOV allowing you to shoot wide, medium and narrow. This camera is perfect for anyone who wants a high-quality video that doesn’t look distorted by the fish eye effect.
With distortion correction on, your videos will be more realistic looking than ever before! If you are in need of a new camera or simply want to improve your existing footage you will not regret buying the C100 +.
Main Features:
- Weight:42g
- Waterproof: Yes, to 30 metres (with a Cameras Housing)
- native 4K video: No
- Supporting 2K/30fps Video Recording and lossless export
- Resolution Video:1080P / Resolution Picture:5200*2928 Image quality
- Stills resolution: 12 megapixels
- Image stabilization
VIVITAR Full HD Action Camera, DVR786HD
Comes with helmet and bike mounts
Available in various body colors, this more conventional looking action camera Vivitar’s DVR 786HD ActionCam is the perfect companion for weekend warriors, extreme sports enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
With an easy to use touch screen display, you’ll be able to capture all of your favorite moments in full 1080p HD quality with just a few taps!
The lightweight design will never weigh you down and even includes handy mounts so that it can go anywhere from bike rides through mountains or underwater advуntureі.
Whether they’re swimming at the beach or exploring rainforests abroad this action cam captures everything without missing a beat along every twist and turn – waterproof casing means no worries about what mother nature throws their way!
Main Features:
- Weight: 2 pounds
- Waterproof: Yes, to 3 metres
- native 4K video: No
- Full HD 1080P: Yes
- 720p video: Yes (frame rate unspecified)
- Stills resolution: 12.1 megapixels
- image stabilization
- Battery life: 1 Lithium Polymer
KODAK PIXPRO SP360 Action Camera
The Kodak Pixpro SP360 puts a rugged 360-degree camera in the palm of your hand. It can also be used as a more typical action cam capturing ultrawide-angle 1080p video. A large assortment of accessories is included.
It’s a small box of a bufget action cam that’s shock-, dust-, freeze- and splashproof with almost the entire top taken up with an f2.8 8.25mm lens (35mm equivalent).
That is a very, very wide lens capable of capturing a circular 360-degree view in photos or video.
Compared to other 360-degree action cameras like the VSN Mobil V.360 and Giroptic, the SP360 is ultracompact and even by action cam standards it’s fairly small measuring 1.6 inches wide by 2 inches high by 1.5 inches deep (41 by 50 by 38mm). Again, most of the top (or front) is consumed by the lens, but you’ll find stereo mics next to the lens, too.
The 360-degree video is circular out of the camera and using Kodak’s software to unfold clips to other views greatly reduces the quality of the video, which is merely good to start with, for the price.
The onboard controls and menu system aren’t particularly intuitive and the action camera’s Wi-Fi starts up every time you turn the camera on, preventing you from quickly starting a recording.
Main Features:
- 235º Spherical Curved Lens
- 16 MP Sensor
- native 4K video: No
- 1080p HD Video
- 10MP Pictures with 10 FPS Burst Shooting
- 2m Shockproof/ -10ºC Freezeproof/ Dustproof / Water Resistant
- Wi-Fi™/NFC Connectivity
- Wirelessly Control with your iOS™/ANDROID™ Smart Device
- Electronic image stabilization
ISHARE Waterproof Kids Action Cameras
The ISHARE kids digital cameras feature cute designs are easy to use, waterproof, dustproof, anti-falling.They are compact to hold and convenient to carry.
ISHARE Waterproof Kids Camera for kids takes high quality 21 MP( 2592×1944 ) photos and 1080P full HD videos.
It has an amazing wide-angle lens, a 2-inch LCD screen, built-in Mic and speaker with super bright flash to let your kids record in high resolution all their fun times even in the night .
With the tripod and 8 × digital zoom, it’s the perfect kids’ camera.
A buoyancy belt is part of this underwater action camera. With it, you won’t need to worry about it sinking in the water or losing it.
Made of high-quality non-toxic plastic, this digital camera for kids is made to withstand accidental drops, falls, and can be taken underwater up to 9 feet (3M) .
It’s small size and smooth surface makes it easy for the kids to grip. The easy to push buttons and the vibrant colors are an added perk to this waterproof camcorder.
Main Features:
- 2″LCD Screen
- native 4K video: No
- Video: 1080 p full HD
- Zoom: 8X Digital
- Photo Resolution: default 5MP(set in menu 21MP/16MP/12MP/5MP/3MP/1MP/VAG)
- Waterproof: Up to 9 feet/3m
- Support Micro SD Card: up to 32GB (16GB included)
- Battery: 2 x AAA
- Multiple Mounting Options
- Image stabilization
- PC interface: mini USB 2.0
Allow your kid to enjoy taking photos and videos everywhere while you don’t have to worry about the device getting damaged.
Frequently Asked Questions :
What is 4K Video?
4K video refers to a video that has a resolution of about 4000 pixels wide.
Also what you need to pay attention to is the frame rate per second or FPS.
The more frames per second, the smoother the video.
Modern action cameras have a frame rate of at least 24 FPS, often 30 FPS.
Under $100, it is usually capped at 30 FPS, which honestly is already pretty good!
Which Other Factors Should You Consider When Choosing Your Camera?
– Photo Resolution:
An action camera is shooting video, but you for sure will using it to take pictures as well.
Today many action cameras are able to shoot 20 MP photos. It is comparable to resolution of many high-end DSLR cameras.
– Waterproof Case:
Action cams come with a waterproof case so you can use it during water sports, snorkeling or even scuba diving. A dive depth of 30 m / 100 ft is more than enough for most users, but if you are a scuba diver it could be a limitation. Various models go with waterproof cases that can dive up to 40 m / 121 ft.
– External Mic Support:
Audio with action cameras is often not amazing. If sound quality is important to you, you’ll want to make sure your action cam has support for an external microphone.
– Batteries:
Of course we can’t expect any action cameras to record video non-stop for days. The good point is that nowadays, many brands include two batteries in the package.Check if your camera comes with a battery charger. In some cameras, the battery can only be charged via USB. It may or may not be a problem depending on how and where you use it. In any case, more options for charging (charger and USB) is always better.
What Memory Card To Choose for Your Action Camera?
For an action cameras, you need to use a Micro SD card.
And the best will be going for a 64 GB card, as 4K video creates very large files.
The second thing to look at is the speed class. A new speed class for video its a U3=V30. It all represents how fast the card is able to save the data.A U3 = V30 card can write 30 MB/sec.