There’s no denying that when it comes to action cameras, Go Pros are most filmmakers’ device of choice. The cameras are renowned for their superior image quality, incredibly portable design, and plenty of features that help you capture that perfect shot. But what is the best Go Pro alternative?

However, Go Pros come at a cost, and whether you’re starting your filmmaker journey, or you’re simply filming on a budget, sometimes the price tag is just too much.

In some cases, you might find the Go Pro features don’t quite hit the spot, and you need something a little more orientated to your needs.

Thankfully, there are plenty of other fantastic alternatives out there for you to choose from.

Best Go Pro Alternative – Overview

While Go Pro is a household name, it’s worth remembering there’s an extensive range of action cameras and portable film cameras that could be precisely what you’re looking for.

Today, we’re going to explore the very best Go Pro alternatives, ensuring you have all the information you need to make the choice that’s best for you.

Let’s go!

Fitfort 4K Action Camera

To kickstart our list, we’ve chosen the feature-packed Fitfort Action Camera. If you’re looking for an action camera that pulls out all the stops while remaining suitable for every kind of budget imaginable, it doesn’t get much better than this.

As the title suggests, this is a full 4K resolution action camera that records at 30fps, comes with 16MP image capture, and an impressive 170˚ wide angle lens. What more do you need?

Each device comes with the two rechargeable batteries so you can be sure you’ll never run out of power when filming, and is compatible with a dedicated Android and iOS app, meaning you’ll be able to capture all your shots from a distance remotely, or manage your content without needing access to a computer.

Certified to a waterproof rating of IP68, this device can be fully submerged up to 100ft of water; it’s easy to see why this is one of the most popular of all Go Pro alternatives.

• 4K video at 30fps, 16MP image and 170˚ wide angle lens
• Free iOS and Android XVA app
• Complete wireless technology built into the device
• Waterproof to an IP68 rating
• Comes with two rechargeable batteries

Campark 4K Action Camera

Another household name in the action camera industry is Campark. Although the company become a bit infamous at the beginning for faulty devices and not being manufactured to an excellent quality, the company have certainly upped their game over the last few years.

This brings us to one of their latest models; the 4K action camera. Just like the Go Pro, the Campark Camera shoots in full 4K at 30fps and can capture photos at 16MP.

What’s more, the lens comes with an integrated Sony sensor, ensuring the device handles light most professionally and effectively.

The device boasts a lens of 170˚ for ultimate wide-angle shots and is waterproof up to 98ft; which is ideal for capturing detailed, crystal-clear underwater shots. However, what really makes this device stand out is the complete set of accessories you’ll get with it.

This includes two rechargeable batteries and a range of mounting equipment. These can be used to set up and position practically any shot you care to name, whether stationary or on a person. High-octane first-person footage anyone?

The device also comes compatible with the dedicated iOS and Android app which means you can control your device wirelessly, or you can directly upload your content to the cloud on set!

• 4K30fps video recording with 16MP still images
• Waterproof up to 98ft
• Impressive 170˚ wide angle lens
• One of the most affordable action cameras available today

Garmin Virb Ultra 30

No matter what area of life you’re from, you’ll have heard of tech giant Garmin, but few people will be aware of their action camera range, which is surprising considering how featureful and packed this particular model is.

Garmin has really pushed the boat out here which full 4K30fps video recording and then 120fps when recording at 1080p, which is basically on par with the Go Pro.

It is worth noting at this point that the price bracket is roughly the same as the Go Pro, but that doesn’t mean Garmin isn’t worth a look at.

Using Garmin’s patented technology, you’ll find high-precision GPS software and a range of external sensors. This can be used to record things like elevation, precise locations, and even metrics like heart rates.

This is something the Go Pro doesn’t have, which means you’re actually getting more for your money here!

The device even boasts a full-color LCD touchscreen, 3-axis image stabilization, and integrated voice control as standard; ensuring you have one of the most complete action camera experiences possible.

Looking for flexibility and full control over your shots? The Garmin Virb Ultra 30 is definitely worth a consideration.

• Coveted G-Metrix GPS technology and external sensors for geotagging and personal user metric tracking
• 4Kfps, 1080p120fps and 16MP still image capture
• Full LCD touchscreen and built-in voice control
• Leading 3-axis image stabilization even at 60fps
• Highly sensitive microphone for professional audio capture as standard

Sony FDR X1000V

There’s no denying that Sony is one of the leaders of the camera industry and the technology used in Sony cameras is used in models and devices across the industry. With this in mind, it should come as no surprise that the Sony Action Camera is one of the industry leaders.

While priced slightly higher than your typical Go Pro model, this camera goes above and beyond the call of duty when it comes to features and overall performance.

Of course, the camera records in full 4K resolution, but also in 240p for ultimate slow-motion capabilities while retaining its HD quality.

This device also includes Sony’s leading image stabilization technology which means it doesn’t matter what situation you’re using your camera; your footage will be pristine.

This is then backed up by the fact the camera offers multiple bundle packages, meaning you can spend your money on the bundle and equipment that is best suited for you.

There’s no wasting money on products or mounting gear you don’t want or need. As standard, this device is manufactured with a fully waterproof casing, a professional stereo mic for pristine sound recording free from movement or wind static, and customizable loop recording means you never have to worry about running out of space.

What’s more, this device is compatible with the dedicated Sony app (compatible on all major devices and operating system) which allows you to control up to five individuals at the same time, giving you complete control over your filming experience.

• Complete 4K60fps with a 170˚ wide-angle lens
• Built-in 240p HD slow-motion recording as standard
• Sony’s leading SteadyShot and image stabilization technology
• Live stream wirelessly using built-in technology
• Automatic highlight reels created within the camera

Olympus TG Tracker

Go Pros are renowned for their durability and their ability to survive and thrive in extreme conditions. However, it’s not the only camera that’s capable of standing against the elements and winning.

Enter the Olympus TG Tracker.

This sturdy little device is one of the most robust action cameras on the market, so if you’re looking to put a camera through its paces, you may not need to look any further than this.

Spec wise, this camera is capable of recording in 4K up to 30fps and prides itself on its high-speed capture lens.

As standard, the camera can be submerged up to 100ft without any casing or housing. This is just a standard feature. This is then coupled with the built-in Wi-Fi and five unique external sensors including GPS, Thermometer, Barometer, and Accelerometer.

All of this data can be viewed through the dedicated mobile app which means you can easily set up the perfect shot in the perfect conditions, saving you time and money when it comes to capturing the perfect shot.

Still images are captured at around 8MP, which is less than the other capture cameras here, but at half the price of a standard Go Pro, this is a budget-friendly option that still packs a punch.

• 4K30fps video and 8MP still image capture
• Five external sensors to help you collect all the data you need while recording
• One of the most durable action cameras on the market
• Waterproof to 100ft without a case
• Built-in Wi-fi connection capabilities
• Integrated image stabilization as standard

What to Look for When Buying a Go Pro Alternative

While the Go Pro is feature-packed and one of the highest performance action cameras available today, when choosing an alternative that’s right for you, there are several factors you’ll want to consider ensuring you’re getting the best filmmaking experience.

Below, we’re going to explore some of these points which acts as a checklist to make sure you’re spending your budget in the right places.

Image and Video Quality

One of the most attractive features of the Go Pro is the 4K image quality, but as we’ve explored today, plenty of action cameras offer this resolution.

When shopping for a Go Pro alternative, make sure you’re considering the quality the camera can record in both image and video formats.

Ideally, you’re going to want 4K at 60fps as this is a standard that gives you the ability to record at any resolution you wish.

In terms of still image quality, 16MP is one of the best you’ll get, but if you’re not fussed with image quality, you can turn a blind eye to this feature.

Price (Budget)

Most filmmakers, especially those starting out, will be shopping on a budget, which is why you’ll be looking for a cheaper alternative.

When considering price, take your budget and be detailed in your research to see what you can afford. There’s no denying there’s plenty of great deals out there for you to choose from.

Mounting Options & Equipment

One of the best benefits of an action camera is their unique size and how portable they are.

However, many action cameras will require mounts to fix them to surfaces, people, or in certain positions.

Ideally, you’ll want the mounting equipment to come with your purchase, so make sure you’re considering this and that getting mounting gear won’t up how much you’re spending by too much.

Try to be as organized, and as planned as possible to know what shots you’ll be taking so you get the right equipment right off the bat.

Connectivity

It’s essential to make sure you’re thinking about how your action camera can connect to specific other devices.

Whether you’re sending your media files off wirelessly to your phone or a cloud storage platform, or you’re connecting to a computer using USB, it’s crucial to think about what you need and how you’ll be working, and then making sure your action camera will fulfill your requirements.

Durability

An important element of action cameras is their durability. Since action cameras are typically used in extreme conditions, such as tropical destinations, underwater scenes, and extreme sports, you’ll want to make sure that your camera can keep up with you.

Of course, if you’re going to be setting up still frames in a café, or walking around with a tripod, this may not be as important to you, which means you won’t need something super durable or protected which will help you find a better budget option.

Best Go Pro Alternative – In Summary

As you can see, when it comes to choosing the right Go Pro alternative, there’s a huge variety of awesome cameras out there just waiting for you to take advantage of them.

Be mindful of what you’re looking for as a filmmaker and what you need during your productions to ensure you’re investing your budget in the right equipment for you.

We hope you’ve found this article covering the best Go Pro alternative helpful in making a purchasing decision. Whilst we endorse all of these action cameras, the best Go Pro alternative is very likely in the eye of the beholder.

What is your favorite alternative to the Go Pro? Drop us a message in the comments section below.

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