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 amongst 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.
Pros
Incredible image quality- Industry-leading image stabilization
- Great mobile apps
Cons
- Expensive
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 |
Pros
- Great image quality, even in low-light
- Reliable image stabilization
- Log color profile support (10-bit D-Log M)
Cons
- Low-resolution still images
DJI, a brand better known for its drones, has made its mark in the action camera sector with the DJI Osmo Action 4. This device is equipped with a 1/1.3-inch CMOS sensor and a wide-angle lens providing a 155-degree field of view. Together, these enable DCI 4K video capture at up to 60fps, and UHD 4K at up to 120fps. For those who want to slow things down, it’s also capable of capturing 1080p footage at 240fps, translating to 8x slow-motion (assuming 30fps playback).
Other capture features include 10-bit and D-Log M capture modes, which maximize the dynamic range of the capable imaging sensor through color grading in post-production. For navigating the menu and composing/reviewing your footage, DJI has included two full-color touchscreens: one large display on the rear of the camera and one smaller display on the front of the camera.
The Osmo Action 4 boasts a considerable battery life per charge, with up to 160 minutes of recording. However, the Fast Charge Technology included ensures quick recharging, with a 0–100% recharge time of just 49 minutes. The camera also features voice control for hands-free use and is waterproof up to 59 feet without a case (and 196 feet with the case), making it a trusted choice for road trips or off-road adventures where you don’t expect Mother Nature to play nice.
DJI has also included its RockSteady 3.0 image stabilization technology in the Osmo Action 4, ensuring smooth footage without the need for a gimbal. While GoPro’s HERO12 Black remains a strong competitor, the comprehensive features and competitive pricing of the Osmo Action 4 position it as an appealing option for your next road trip. One of the features that sets the Osmo Action 4 apart from the competition is its unique magnetic mounting system, which is far more convenient to use than GoPro’s “finger” locking mechanism (which the Osmo Action 4 is also capable of using via the included mount adapter).
You can also snag the DJI Osmo Action 4 Adventure Combo for an additional $100, which includes a convenient charging case, two additional batteries, and an extension rod for holding the Osmo Action 4 at a distance.
Specifications
| Video Resolutions | 4K (4:3) at up to 60fps, 4K (16:9) at up to 120fps, and 1080p at up to 240fps |
|---|---|
| Stills Resolution | 10MP |
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Pros
- Affordable
- Wireless remote is included
Cons
- Image stabilization isn't great
- Mobile app could use some work
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 |
Pros
- Fantastic image quality
- Great low-light performance
- Flipping screen
Cons
- Expensive
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 |
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Pros
- Immersive 360-degree perspective
- High-quality photos and video
- Great editing apps for Android and iOS
Cons
- Not the best audio
It’s not for everyone, but if you want to capture 360-degree footage of your adventures, the Insta360 X3 is what you’ll want. This high-quality 360 camera can capture 5.7K 360-degree video and 72-megapixel 360-degree stills.
It features integrated electronic image stabilization and uses Bluetooth and Wi-Fi to connect to Insta360’s Android and iOS editing apps, which make editing 360-degree footage a breeze. And it’s waterproof. The camera uses micro SD cards for storage, and footage can be offloaded via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth to your mobile device to free up space on the go.
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.
Pros
- Great battery life
- Optional accessories
Cons
- Limited photo/video modes
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 |
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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
Associate Testing Editor, Hearst Autos
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.
