2025 Action Camera Showdown: GoPro Faces Fierce New Rivals 🚀

GoPro’s Reign Challenged: The GoPro Hero13 Black remains a benchmark with 5.3K video and class-leading stabilization, but DJI and Insta360 have closed the gap – and even surpassed GoPro in key areas like battery life and low-light performance wired.com theverge.com.
DJI’s Battery & Low-Light King: The DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro offers industry-leading battery endurance (around 2 hours of 4K recording) and superior low-light footage, outlasting the Hero13 Black while costing ~$50 less wired.com theverge.com. Its compact, magnetic design and pro-grade audio integration make it a favorite among adventurers.
8K & Vlogging Powerhouse: Insta360’s Ace Pro 2 captures up to 8K/30fps video and sports a flip-up touchscreen ideal for vlogging wired.com. Reviewers praise its Leica-coengineered sensor for excellent image quality and low-light performance “much better than the GoPro’s” wired.com. However, 8K mode has limits (8K footage can show artifacts in fast action wired.com).
360° Cameras Go Mainstream: 360° action cams saw big launches – Insta360’s X5 (8K 360 video with dual 1/1.28″ sensors) and DJI’s first 360 camera, the Osmo 360, which boasts a unique 1-inch square sensor for improved dynamic range imaging-resource.com imaging-resource.com. GoPro’s aging Max is finally getting a successor (Max 2) later in 2025 digitalcameraworld.com, reflecting the growing demand for immersive 360° capture.
Software & Ecosystems: The battle extends to apps and services. GoPro’s Quik app and cloud backup (via GoPro Subscription) face new competition from Insta360’s “Insta360+” cloud service, which offers automatic Wi-Fi backups, cloud editing, and even free accidental damage replacements starting at $1.99/month t3.com t3.com. All major players now provide robust mobile apps for editing, AI-assisted highlights, and seamless sharing of your adventures.

The Action Camera Landscape in 2025

Action cameras in 2025 are more advanced and diverse than ever. Where once GoPro dominated by default, now DJI and Insta360 are delivering equally compelling flagship cams techradar.com. This year’s top models all shoot stabilized 4K (or higher) video, are waterproof for surf or dive filming, and offer new tricks from AI-assisted modes to modular attachments. According to TechRadar’s testing team, GoPro “still sets the bar in 2025” for all-around performance but Insta360 and DJI have carved out leads in resolution and specialty use cases (8K capture, underwater imaging) techradar.com. The playing field has truly leveled, meaning your choice comes down to the features that matter most for your adventures.

In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll examine the top action cams of 2025 – their strengths, weaknesses, and ideal uses – drawing on expert reviews and performance tests. We’ll also look at rumored releases on the horizon (like GoPro’s next flagship and 360 camera) to see how the competition might heat up even further by year’s end.

GoPro Hero13 Black: The Flagship Refined

GoPro’s Hero13 Black is the latest evolution of the iconic Hero series, and while it’s not a radical reinvention, it refines GoPro’s formula with smart upgrades. It retains the same Type 1/1.9 (~6.3×5.5mm) sensor and the impressive HyperSmooth stabilization that made prior GoPros so good dpreview.com. You still get crisp 5.3K/60fps max video (or 4K at 120fps for silky slow motion), and GoPro has finally brought back some pro features: 10-bit HDR video (HLG support) and even a new flat G-Log color profile for color grading theverge.com.

Where the Hero13 really innovates is in its accessories and mounting:

Magnetic Accessories: The Hero13 introduced a new magnetic mounting/charging interface, plus clip-on lens mods. GoPro now offers swappable Hero “HB” series lenses – Ultra-Wide 177° FOV, Macro, and an anamorphic 21:9 cine lens – that attach natively and are auto-detected by the camera dpreview.com dpreview.com. This adds versatility never seen before in an action cam: you can swap to an ultra-wide lens for immersive POV or an anamorphic lens for cinematic flare and widescreen footage, all with in-camera de-squeeze processing dpreview.com. These lens mods “bring a new level of flexibility” to the GoPro system, notes DPReview dpreview.com dpreview.com.
Improved Battery: The Hero13’s new battery claims about 10% more capacity than the Hero12’s Enduro pack theverge.com. In real terms, users report roughly ~1.5 hours of continuous 4K recording per charge – better than previous GoPros, though still shorter than DJI’s endurance. (GoPro’s focus on a compact size means a smaller battery than the beefy cell in DJI’s Action 5.) The redesigned battery door also supports GoPro’s “Contacto” magnetic cable for charging without opening the door dpreview.com – a welcome quality-of-life tweak, especially in wet or dirty conditions.
Wireless and Usability Upgrades: The Hero13 bumps connectivity to Wi-Fi 6 for 40% faster offloads theverge.com. It also reintroduces built-in GPS telemetry (absent in Hero12) for overlaying speed, g-force, and route data on your videos dpreview.com. Little touches like voice control, improved on-screen menus, and quick switch presets continue to make GoPro easy to operate while in motion.

Performance: In action, the Hero13 Black delivers the signature GoPro look – vibrant stabilized footage and rugged reliability. Reviewers praised the Hero13’s versatility: it’s equally at home mounted on a mountain bike as it is on a vlogger’s selfie stick. The 5.3K video is gorgeously detailed, and GoPro’s tuning skews toward punchy contrast and saturated colors (great for sharing without editing). In fact, TechRadar’s in-depth review lauded that the Hero13 “came away impressed with the quality of its 5.3K video,” and noted the camera’s support for lens mods and ND filters expanded its creative abilities techradar.com.

However, the Hero13 is no longer the automatic choice for “best overall.” Low-light and battery life remain Achilles’ heels compared to its rivals. Its 1/1.9″ sensor can’t match the bigger 1/1.3″ sensors in the DJI and Insta360 for night scenes or dim underwater footage – the GoPro shows more noise and less dynamic range. And where the Hero13 generally tops out around 90 minutes of 4K recording, DJI can literally double that. As The Verge’s camera editor put it, with DJI’s Action 5 Pro on the scene, “it’s going to be hard to justify paying $50 more for the new GoPro flagship” given the DJI’s advantages theverge.com. That said, GoPro still leads in sheer ecosystem maturity: a huge array of mounts/mods, a refined Quik mobile app, and features like HindSight (pre-record buffer) and live streaming support make the Hero13 a superbly rounded package for any activity.

Pricing: The Hero13 Black launched at $399 (standard edition) and typically hovers around that price, though occasional sales have seen it as low as $359 wired.com. GoPro also offers the Hero13 in limited color editions (e.g. an all-white “Polar” variant at the same price) theverge.com. If you need an all-in-one kit, GoPro sells a Creator Edition ($599) bundling the Hero13 with vlog-friendly extras like the Volta grip (battery handle), Media Mod (mic/interface sleeve), and LED light dpreview.com.

GoPro Hero (Mini) – The $199 Tiny GoPro: Alongside the flagship, GoPro released a stripped-down Hero (2024) simply called “Hero”. This mini model costs $199 and is “the smallest, lightest, simplest” GoPro ever dpreview.com theverge.com – about 46% smaller by volume than the Hero13 Black. It forgoes the front screen and 5K capabilities, maxing out at 4K/60fps (and 1080p/30 for ~100 minutes on a charge) wired.com dpreview.com. It even lacks real-time onboard stabilization – you apply HyperSmooth in the app after recording to save processing power wired.com. This little GoPro is ideal for weight-sensitive uses like FPV drones or helmet mounts. As Wired’s reviewer noted, “I reach for this camera a lot more than I thought… it’s so small I forget I’m carrying it,” perfect when 4K is enough wired.com. Just be aware you’ll rely on the Quik app for stabilizing footage, and the Mini doesn’t use GoPro’s new magnetic mounts (it still needs traditional mounts) wired.com.

Bottom line: The Hero13 Black is a top-tier action cam with GoPro’s trademark versatility and polish. It excels in almost any scenario, from chest-mounted ski runs to 4K30 headshots for YouTube. If you’re a GoPro veteran, the Hero13 will feel familiar, with worthwhile upgrades like lens mods and slightly better battery life. But 2025’s competition means the Hero13 is no longer an automatic no-brainer. Depending on your needs, you might get more value – or better performance in specific areas – from DJI or Insta360’s offerings, as we’ll see next.

DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro: The New Low-Light & Battery Champ

DJI’s Osmo Action 5 Pro has emerged as perhaps the strongest GoPro alternative ever, even stealing the crown as WIRED’s “Best Overall Action Camera” for 2025 wired.com. DJI built on its drone camera expertise to create a rugged little unit that emphatically addresses GoPro’s weak spots. The result is an action cam that trounces the Hero13 Black in several ways – notably battery endurance, low-light video, and form-factor – while matching GoPro on core features.

Key Features:

1/1.3″ Image Sensor: The Action 5 Pro uses a sizeable 1/1.3-inch CMOS (about 0.8× the area of GoPro’s sensor) with 2.4 μm pixels thedronegirl.com. In plain terms, it gathers more light. This yields a 13.5-stop dynamic range and much cleaner low-light footage than typical action cams thedronegirl.com. Nighttime and indoor scenes look more detailed and less noisy, especially when using DJI’s new SuperNight mode (which applies AI noise reduction on 4K/30 footage for usable dark-scene video) wired.com thedronegirl.com. Reviewers consistently highlight the Action 5’s superior image quality when light is scarce. One Reddit user put it simply: “the Action 5 is better in low light situations. GoPro is arguably better at everything else” reddit.com – a bit tongue-in-cheek, but it underscores DJI’s advantage for night laps or underwater shadows.
Battery Life – Up to 4 Hours: Say goodbye to the GoPro battery anxiety. DJI advertises an incredible 4-hour runtime (at 1080p/30), and real-world tests confirm roughly 2+ hours of continuous 4K/60 filming per charge wired.com thedronegirl.com. In WIRED’s testing, the Action 5 Pro “tops out at two solid hours of 4K” recording wired.com – roughly double what they got from the Hero13 Black. This is a game-changer for long activities (extended hikes, endurance sports, time-lapses) where swapping batteries is impractical. DJI achieved this via a power-efficient 4nm chipset and a larger battery pack (≈1950 mAh) thedronegirl.com. Note: The battery is built-in (non-removable), but DJI’s fast charging and power management make up for it.
Magnetic Quick-Release Mounting: The Action 5 continues DJI’s clever magnetic mounting system introduced in Action 3/4. The camera has built-in magnetic clips that snap securely into various mounts – no frame needed. It’s an excellent mounting system that users love for its speed and simplicity wired.com. You can go from chest mount to tripod in seconds. And since the form factor is slightly smaller and lighter than GoPro wired.com, it’s easier to wear on a helmet or clamp in tight spots. (Importantly, DJI kept the mount design the same as past models, so existing Osmo Action accessories are compatible wired.com.)
Dual Color Screens: Like prior Osmo cameras, the Action 5 Pro has a front color screen (for selfies/vlogging) and a rear touchscreen. The rear display grew to 2.5″ (matching the Ace Pro 2’s flip screen) theverge.com, making menus and previewing shots easier. The front screen is full-color live view, unlike the monochrome info-only screen on Insta360’s Ace Pro 2 theverge.com. This gives DJI an edge for front-facing framing without needing a flip-up mechanism.
Audio and Mic Integration: Out of the box, the Action 5’s internal microphones are decent, and DJI includes a removable wind-cutting foam cover for high-speed activities theverge.com. More impressively, DJI made its wireless DJI Mic 2 system plug-and-play with the Action 5 wired.com. You can clip a wireless lapel mic on your shirt and have crystal-clear audio recorded directly, far surpassing GoPro’s Media Mod solution. In fact, Wired’s reviewer noted the Action 5 + DJI Mic combo gave “much, much better audio — better than what I’ve been able to get from GoPro (even with the GoPro Media Mod and an external mic)” wired.com. For motovloggers or anyone serious about sound, this is a huge plus.

Performance and Image Quality: In action, the Osmo Action 5 Pro produces gorgeous footage up to 4K/120fps (or 4K/60 in HDR). Although its max resolution is lower than GoPro’s 5.3K, in practice “I’ve encountered very few situations where [5.3K] matters,” says WIRED wired.com. The 4K from DJI is extremely sharp and detailed, and the larger sensor + DJI’s color tuning yield a slightly more neutral look than GoPro. Colors out-of-camera are a bit flatter (some reviewers say DJI’s default color is less punchy than GoPro’s, which can be a pro or con) wired.com wired.com. Dynamic range is excellent; highlight retention and shadow detail impress in bright scenes. And with RockSteady 3.0 stabilization, footage stays butter-smooth even on gnarly mountain bike trails or when attached to a surfboard. DJI also offers HorizonSteady leveling (horizon lock) up to 4K/60, similar to GoPro’s Horizon Lock.

Where the Action 5 really shines is underwater and in dark scenes. Thanks to that sensor and DJI’s processing, it can capture usable, relatively noise-free video in situations that make GoPro footage muddy. TechRadar even chose the Osmo Action 5 as “our pick for underwater video” in 2025 techradar.com. Scuba divers and snorkelers will appreciate that confidence. The camera is natively waterproof to 10m (33ft) without a housing – standard for high-end action cams – and DJI offers a dive housing for deeper expeditions (up to ~60m). Notably, the Action 5 also has 47 GB of built-in storage as a backup thedronegirl.com, so even if you forget an SD card you won’t miss the shot – a thoughtful feature GoPro lacks.

Handling: Users love the compact feel of the Action 5. It’s slightly smaller than a GoPro, with low-profile lens optics. The menus (via touchscreen or the DJI Mimo app) are straightforward. DJI’s interface has improved a lot since earlier models, now matching GoPro for intuitiveness. Boot-up and record start speeds are snappy. One minor con mentioned by WIRED: the default color profile on the Action 5 can appear a bit dull or greenish compared to GoPro’s vibrant output wired.com wired.com. Many users tweak colors in post or use DJI’s D-Cinelike flat profile for grading. But that’s a small trade-off for the overall image quality.

Expert Verdicts: The consensus is that DJI knocked it out of the park. WIRED’s editor didn’t mince words: “For the money, DJI’s Osmo Action 5 is the best action camera you can buy right now. It trumps our previous top pick, the GoPro Hero 13 Black, in several ways…” wired.com. He highlighted battery life and low-light as major wins, concluding “given the longer battery life, much better low-light capabilities, and smaller design, DJI is the better buy.” wired.com. The Verge’s hands-on review echoed that, noting the GoPro Hero13’s $50 higher price is hard to justify with the Action 5 Pro offering so much theverge.com. Simply put, DJI has made GoPro sweat in a category GoPro invented.

Pricing: The Osmo Action 5 Pro retails for $349 (standard kit) thedronegirl.com, undercutting the GoPro by ~$50. It launched in Sept 2024 and is widely available. DJI often bundles an “Adventure Combo” with extra batteries and accessories for a bit more. Given its strong value, the Action 5 is frequently sold out among enthusiasts. (DJI also sells the older Action 4 at a discount, but the 5 Pro’s upgrades are worth the jump for most.)

Bottom line: DJI’s flagship is a feature-packed, reliable action cam that beats GoPro in battery life and matches it in most other respects. It’s the best choice if you often film long sessions, shoot in low light, or want a smaller cam that’s easier to mount. GoPro still has an edge in max resolution and a slightly more refined app ecosystem, but for many users the Osmo Action 5 Pro is now the camera to grab for 2025 adventures wired.com. It’s no longer “GoPro vs the rest” – it’s GoPro vs DJI, neck and neck.

Insta360 Ace Pro 2: 8K Resolution & Vlogger’s Delight

Insta360, known for its innovative 360° cameras, has aggressively expanded into the standard action cam space. Their flagship Insta360 Ace Pro 2 (released late 2024) is a true powerhouse that goes toe-to-toe with GoPro and DJI – and in some areas, sprints ahead. This camera is all about maximizing specs and versatility: a hefty sensor capable of 8K video, a unique flip-up screen, and a focus on AI-powered software to enhance footage. It’s even picked by Wired as the “Best for Vlogging” in 2025 wired.com.

Headline Features:

8K Video (with Caveats): The Ace Pro 2 can shoot 8K/30fps footage – a first among mainstream action cams wired.com. This grabs attention, as it allows for extreme detail and creative cropping (you can punch into a wide 8K shot and still export 4K). However, experts note 8K is pushing the limits: “the 8K is not great for action – it has quite a bit of digital artifacts in fast-moving scenes” wired.com. In other words, for rapid motion (mountain biking, skiing) the 8K mode can show compression noise or reduced stabilization. It’s best used for slower or tripod shots where you want that extra resolution for reframing. The Ace Pro 2’s 4K/120fps mode is generally the sweet spot for action – and it looks fantastic, albeit limited to 8-bit color and no log in 4K/120 wired.com. Notably, Insta360 did include a flat log profile (I-Log) and 10-bit color in some modes, but not the highest ones wired.com. Despite limitations, having 8K at your fingertips is great future-proofing and niche flexibility (e.g., grabbing still frame grabs or digital zooms).
Large 1/1.3″ Sensor & Leica Optics: Like the DJI, the Ace Pro 2 uses a big 1/1.3″ sensor co-engineered with Leica (paired with a Leica Summarit 157° lens) theverge.com. This means image quality and dynamic range are on par with the Action 5. In fact, the Ace Pro 2 and Osmo Action 5 Pro share the same sensor and produce “very close” video quality, according to WIRED’s side-by-side tests wired.com. Each has its own image processing: Insta360 tends toward a slightly more vivid default color (which some found oversaturated) wired.com wired.com, but overall, you get excellent clarity and low noise. Low-light performance is a strong suit – Wired noted it’s “much better than the GoPro’s” in dark conditions, essentially matching the DJI wired.com. So, Ace Pro 2 users can confidently film sunsets, campfires, or indoor sports with less worry about grainy footage.
Flip-Up Touchscreen: The Ace Pro 2’s signature design element is its flip-up rear screen. The entire back panel is a 2.5-inch touchscreen that hinges 180° upward to face forward theverge.com. This gives you a large selfie screen for perfectly framing vlog shots – far bigger than the tiny front displays on GoPro/DJI. As Wired says, “other action cameras offer a small front screen… [Ace Pro 2’s] entire back… flips up, and it’s easier to frame yourself” wired.com. It’s like having a mini flip-screen camcorder. The hinge mechanism is sturdy but does add a point of potential wear and a bit of bulk. (The camera remains waterproof to 5m with the screen closed, but you’d need an external housing to go deeper due to the hinge.)
Excellent Audio: Insta360 put effort into audio – the Ace Pro 2’s built-in microphone setup is surprisingly good. Wired found it delivers “excellent audio from [the] built-in mic”, enough that casual vloggers may not need an external mic wired.com. For more serious use, the camera supports external USB-C mics and even records a 2nd track for ambisonic spatial audio (for 360 or VR workflows). There’s also a clever removable “wind guard” foam you can magnetically attach over the mics for breezy conditions theverge.com.
Magnetic Mounting System: Like DJI, Insta360 uses a magnetic quick-release mount for the Ace series – though the design is different and not cross-compatible. The Ace Pro 2’s base has a magnetic clip mount that slots into Insta360’s own accessories. Wired calls it “excellent” as well wired.com. It’s secure and convenient, though you’ll be investing in Insta360-specific mounts (or using adapters).
Battery Life: The Ace Pro 2 packs an 1800 mAh battery, yielding about ~105 minutes of 4K/30 recording per charge wired.com. That’s very good (almost on par with DJI’s 120 min), especially considering it has to drive a big sensor and flip screen. In practice, users get over an hour of heavy use easily. The battery is removable, so you can carry spares (unlike DJI). However, be aware the 8K recording can generate a lot of heat – long 8K clips may auto-stop if the camera overheats, a common limitation in such a compact device wired.com wired.com.

Software & Ecosystem: Insta360’s secret sauce is often its software. The Ace Pro 2 benefits from Insta360’s advanced PureShot and PureVideo modes (leveraging AI to reduce noise and enhance clarity, especially in low light) theverge.com. It also integrates with the Insta360 mobile app, which is arguably one of the best in the industry for editing on the go. The app can auto-edit clips, add music, and use AI to find highlights – great for quick social media posts. And if you’re plugged into Insta360’s ecosystem, their new Insta360+ cloud service can backup your footage the moment you plug the camera in to charge over Wi-Fi t3.com, and even let you edit from the cloud storage without downloading files t3.com. This is a direct shot at GoPro’s subscription. For $1.99/month you get 200 GB of cloud storage and extras like accidental damage replacement t3.com t3.com, which is very competitive. The Ace Pro 2, of course, also works with Insta360’s desktop Studio software for more advanced reframing and color work if needed.

Real-World Usage: The Ace Pro 2 has found a niche among content creators who want an action cam that doubles as a travel vlog camera. That flip screen and 8K capability mean you can film yourself walking and talking, then switch to high-res scenic B-roll – all with one pocketable device. It’s also a natural choice if you already use Insta360’s 360 cams, since the workflow and app are unified. Stabilization (called “FlowState”) is excellent, though some say GoPro’s HyperSmooth still has a slight edge in extreme shake scenarios – it’s very close. One limitation: in 8K or high-FOV modes, the best stabilization and the flat color profile aren’t available wired.com wired.com. So for the absolutely smoothest footage, you might stick to 4K or lower.

In Wired’s rigorous testing, they concluded the Ace Pro 2’s video quality is “very close” to the DJI Action 5 Pro wired.com, which is high praise. They actually found it interesting to compare footage since both share hardware – differences came down to processing “magic” from each company wired.com. The Ace’s footage out of camera is slightly more contrasty and saturated (Insta360 tends to cater to a vibrant social-media-ready aesthetic). Some users prefer that, others might dial it down. The good news is you have options like Log if you want to color grade properly.

Expert Quote: For anyone who plans to film themselves, WIRED flatly states “the Insta360 Ace Pro 2 is the camera to get.” wired.com That quote underscores how ideal this camera is for vloggers or solo travelers. The combination of the big flip screen, strong built-in mic, and high resolution makes it almost a mini film studio in your hand.

Pricing: The Ace Pro 2 launched at $399.99. It sits right between GoPro and DJI in cost (matching GoPro’s MSRP, though GoPro often street-discounts a bit). Considering the tech packed in – 8K and all – it’s competitively priced. Insta360 often sells it via their site and Amazon, sometimes bundling selfie sticks or memory cards.

Downsides: No product is perfect. The Ace Pro 2’s 8K can overheat on long runs wired.com, and it doesn’t support GoPro’s vast range of mounts (so you may need new accessories). The flip screen, while awesome for framing, could be a point of failure if abused (and it prevents the camera from being as ruggedly waterproof until you add a casing). Also, the camera’s 8K/4K120 modes are limited to 8-bit color and no log profile wired.com, meaning hardcore videographers might miss that extra color data in the highest settings. But for 95% of users, these are minor quibbles given everything the Ace Pro 2 delivers.

Bottom line: Insta360’s Ace Pro 2 is a feature-packed hybrid – blending action cam toughness with some traits of a mirrorless vlogging camera. If you’re a creator who wants maximum flexibility (perhaps you want to capture both slow-motion action and sit-down pieces to camera), the Ace Pro 2 is a compelling all-in-one. It shows how far the action cam concept has evolved – 8K and AI in your pocket! Just be mindful of its quirks, and you’ll be rewarded with stunning footage.

Other Notable Action Cameras in 2025

Beyond the big three flagship models above, there are a few other cameras worth mentioning for specific niches or budgets:

Insta360 X5 (360° Camera): While not a traditional forward-facing action cam, the X5 is Insta360’s latest 360-degree action camera and a beast in its own right. Launched in April 2025, it records 8K 360° video at 30fps with dual 1/1.28″ sensors store.insta360.com insta360.com. Essentially, it captures everything around you, allowing you to “reframe” and pull out flat 16:9 edits later. The X5’s quality is stellar – YMCinema calls it “delivering 8K video, rock-solid stabilization, and glowing reviews — all for $550” insta360.com. If you want immersive footage or the ability to choose your camera angle after the fact, 360 cams like the X5 (or the new DJI Osmo 360) are the tools to use. The X5 is tough and waterproof, making it suitable for attaching to a snowboard or snorkel to get unique perspectives. Keep in mind, editing 360 video takes a bit more work, and files are large. But the creative freedom is unmatched. (GoPro’s equivalent, the Max, is due for an update to remain competitive – more on that in the rumor section.)
DJI Osmo 360: DJI’s first 360 camera, announced mid-2025, is another exciting entrant. It uses a 1-inch type sensor for each lens – giving it possibly the best image quality of any consumer 360 cam so far imaging-resource.com imaging-resource.com. DJI touts that its “1-inch square HDR sensor” design improves quality and power efficiency imaging-resource.com. Early reviews (e.g., T3’s) note it brings “cinematic surrealism to the masses” with DJI’s trademark stabilization and color science t3.com. However, availability in the U.S. has been delayed due to unspecified reasons imaging-resource.com. If you’re in Europe or elsewhere, the Osmo 360 is a premium 360 cam alternative to Insta360. For now, Insta360’s X5 is more widely accessible and proven.
Insta360 Go Ultra (Wearable Hybrid): Insta360’s Go Ultra (released August 2025) is a fascinating tiny wearable 4K camera that doubles as a mini action cam. Think of it as a two-in-one: there’s a small pill-shaped camera “pod” that magnetically attaches to a base. When in the base, it behaves like a normal action cam (with a flip-up screen similar to the Ace Pro) wired.com. Pop the pod out, and you have an ultra-light hands-free cam you can stick on your shirt, hat, or any metal surface (the magnet is super strong) wired.com. The Go Ultra shoots 4K/60 and has a surprisingly large 1/1.28″ sensor for its size wired.com. DC Rainmaker notes it’s a “substantial upgrade” over prior tiny cams, with improved 4K quality and even a microSD slot – but “the price is now $449, […] the most expensive action cam on the market, above even the GoPro Hero 13 Black & DJI Action 5” dcrainmaker.com. That high price might limit it to enthusiasts who specifically need its unique form factor. Wired’s reviewer absolutely loved the Go Ultra for creative shots, saying it let him “get shots my phone and GoPro never could” and that its “pod-and-base design” enables angles no other camera can wired.com wired.com. It’s “just plain fun” to use, he added wired.com. The downsides are that the standalone pod isn’t waterproof without a special lens cap, and the battery isn’t removable (you recharge the pod via the base) wired.com wired.com. The Go Ultra isn’t a go-to general camera for most people, but for gadget lovers or those who want the smallest POV cam, it’s an amazing piece of kit.
Akaso Brave 8 Lite (Budget Pick): Not everyone wants to spend $300–$400 on a tiny camera. Brands like Akaso cater to the budget market, and the Brave 8 Lite (~$150) earned mention as a top budget action cam. It offers real 4K/60 video and even dual screens at a fraction of GoPro’s price techradar.com techradar.com. In TechRadar’s tests, the Brave 8 Lite provided vivid 4K footage in good lighting (though high-contrast scenes suffered, and low light was noisy) techradar.com. Its stabilization and build quality are a step down from pricier cams – reviewers noted “poor image stabilization” and a flimsy plastic body techradar.com techradar.com. But for casual use or as a learning camera, it’s “excellent value for the price” techradar.com techradar.com. It even has features like a front screen for selfies, which many cheap cams lack. If you’re on a tight budget or need a secondary camera you won’t mind risking in dangerous spots, the Akaso is worth a look. Just manage expectations: it won’t rival GoPro or DJI in tough conditions, and durability (especially waterproofing) is more limited without a case.
Sony RX0 II / Others: It’s notable that Sony – once a competitor in this space – hasn’t released a new action cam in years. The RX0 II (2019) remains a unique offering: a 1-inch sensor in a tiny waterproof cube, with superb image quality and a $700 price tag. However, its lack of stabilization and narrow 24mm field of view make it less practical for typical action use. In 2025, the Sony is a niche tool (used on movie sets or by professionals who need a tiny high-grade camera) rather than a GoPro alternative for consumers. Garmin and Olympus previously made action cams too, but they’ve exited the market or frozen development. Today’s action cam scene is dominated by the trio we’ve discussed and the 360-cam specialists.
Older GoPro and DJI Models: Bargain hunters can still find previous-generation gear that holds up well. The GoPro Hero12 Black (2023) is “a fantastic camera” and now often heavily discounted – sometimes under $300 wired.com. It offers 5.3K60, HyperSmooth 6.0, and even features like wireless audio support. Aside from lacking the Hero13’s lens mods and built-in GPS, it’s very close in performance. Similarly, DJI’s Osmo Action 4 (2023) can be found on sale since the 5 Pro arrived. The Action 4 has the same sensor size (1/1.3”) but only goes up to 4K/120 and slightly shorter battery life. It’s still excellent, especially if a deal knocks it below $250. If you don’t need the absolute cutting edge, these last-gen flagships are a value goldmine right now for hobbyists.

Best Cameras for Every Use Case

Every adventurer has different needs. A surfer, a mountain biker, and a travel vlogger might all want an “action cam,” but the features that matter most will differ. Here we break down which 2025 cameras excel for specific use cases:

Vlogging and Selfie Footage: Best pick: Insta360 Ace Pro 2, thanks to its flip-up screen and top-notch audio. As mentioned, Wired flatly says if you film yourself, the Ace Pro 2 “is the camera to get” wired.com. You can compose yourself with the big front-facing display and trust the built-in mic or add a USB-C mic. The GoPro Hero13 Black is a close second – its front screen is smaller but still useful, and GoPro’s color profile can be flattering for skin tones in daylight. GoPro also has an advantage of voice control (“GoPro, start recording” can be handy for hands-off vlogging). DJI’s Action 5 Pro sits somewhere in between; it has a full-color front screen and incredible battery (great for long talking segments), but its field of view is slightly narrower by default which means you might need an extension rod to get the same wide selfie shot. All three support external microphones (GoPro via Media Mod, DJI via DJI Mic or USB-C mic, Insta360 via USB-C), but DJI’s wireless mic integration is the slickest setup for an uncluttered vlogging rig wired.com.
Sports and High-Speed Action: Best pick: GoPro Hero13 Black for all-around versatility and accessory ecosystem. GoPro’s famous HyperSmooth stabilization is still as good as it gets, ironing out bike trails, snowboard landings, and everything in between. It also has extensive mounting options – from chesty mounts to bite mounts – giving athletes the most ways to wear or attach the camera. The new lens mods can be useful here: for example, the Ultra-Wide mod (177° FOV) can capture more of the rider plus surroundings, and the Anamorphic mod could give a dramatic ultrawide view for motorsports dpreview.com dpreview.com. The Hero13 also offers the highest frame rates at high resolution (5.3K up to 120fps slow-mo), which means super-detailed slow-motion replays of your stunt or swing. That said, DJI Action 5 Pro is right on its heels – and its superior battery means it’s less likely to die mid-session. For endurance sports or all-day recording (think a long hike, an ultra-marathon, or an all-day ski trip), the DJI’s extended life is invaluable. Many mountain bikers also appreciate DJI’s slightly smaller size for helmet mounting (less weight on the helmet). If your sport involves water, DJI’s better low-light and dynamic range can produce clearer underwater or splash-filled shots. And if your “sport” is something like scuba or free-diving, note that the Action 5 is rated to 18m without a case (and up to ~60m with the case), whereas GoPro is 10m bare (60m with Dive Housing). In any case, both have proven tough as nails – surviving crashes, drops, and tumbles. Insta360’s Ace Pro 2 is also capable for sports, but its flip screen is actually a bit of a liability for rough use (you’d want to keep it closed and perhaps add the optional lens guard). Also, serious action users might not find much use for 8K in fast motion. One area Insta360 shines, though, is for follow-cam footage: mount it on a selfie stick chasing a skateboarder, and you’ll get superb footage with that large sensor and stabilization.
Underwater and Diving: Best pick: DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro. As noted, TechRadar’s experts picked the Action 5 for underwater shooting techradar.com. Its combination of high dynamic range, larger pixels, and long battery make it ideal under the waves. It also handles white balance well – early user reports note that the Action 5’s footage, especially with DJI’s color profile or after color correction, retains more accurate hues underwater (whereas GoPro footage might need more correction due to a green tint or higher noise). DJI even specifically touts a water temperature resistance improvement – it can operate in cold water without fogging. The built-in memory on DJI is a nice backup in case your SD card fails on a dive. Of course, serious divers will add a proper red filter (to compensate for blue/green color cast) and a dive housing. GoPro Hero13 Black is a close second here and certainly capable – GoPro sells a Blue Water Dive Filter and their cameras have a known track record in ocean photography. The Hero13’s new lens mods are not really applicable underwater except the Macro lens might be fun for close-ups of coral or small creatures (focus range ~4 inches). The Insta360 X5 360 cam can also be a fascinating underwater tool, capturing a sphere of video you can later pan through. (It requires a special diving case to eliminate stitch lines.) And for shallow snorkeling or pool fun, any of these cams bare will do – just rinse them after salt exposure. A tip for underwater enthusiasts: use video lights if possible, and take advantage of these cameras’ slow motion to capture sea life in a new perspective.
360° Capture and VR: Best picks: Insta360 X5 or wait for GoPro Max 2. If your goal is to create immersive VR videos or just have the flexibility of reframing footage after the fact, a dedicated 360 camera is what you want. The Insta360 X5, with 8K and excellent mobile editing tools, is arguably the top consumer 360 cam right now insta360.com. It’s been used by travel vloggers and even some small production teams to get “impossible” shots (the camera can see in all directions, and software can make the selfie stick invisible, so you get a floating camera effect). Meanwhile, GoPro’s Max (released 2019) is long overdue for an update – and indeed GoPro’s CEO has confirmed a Max 2 is coming by the end of 2025 digitalcameraworld.com. For the moment, GoPro Max (1st gen) only does 5.6K 360 video, which is low by 2025 standards, so it’s hard to recommend unless you find it very cheap. DJI’s Osmo 360 is another compelling option if/when it becomes available; its 1-inch sensors may produce the best low-light 360 footage on the market imaging-resource.com.
FPV Drones and Special Uses: Best picks: GoPro Hero (Mini) or Insta360 Go series. FPV drone pilots often strap a GoPro on their quadcopter to capture HD footage. Weight and size are crucial here. The GoPro Hero “Mini” ($199, 86g) has become popular – it’s far lighter than a full Hero13 Black yet can still do 4K/60 with stabilization (post-processed) dpreview.com wired.com. Many FPV pilots also hack older GoPros (like Hero8) by stripping them down to a “naked GoPro” to save weight. But the Hero Mini gives you a warranty-backed, tiny GoPro out of the box. Its only drawback is needing to stabilize after; however, GoPro’s ReelSteady software (part of the subscription) does an excellent job for drone footage. On the ultra-tiny end, Insta360’s GO series (the Go 3 or new Go Ultra) have been used on micro-drones where even 86g is too heavy. The Go Ultra’s pod alone can be mounted on an ultra-light drone to get HD footage where previously only a grainy analog feed was possible. So, for drone enthusiasts, these smaller cams open possibilities.

In summary, the “best” action camera really depends on your priorities. Need the longest recording time or best night footage? DJI’s your friend. Want the highest resolution or a front-facing screen for commentary? Insta360 has you covered. Crave the most mounting options or highest slow-motion frame rates? GoPro still leads there. The good news is that in 2025, all these cameras deliver “sharp, stabilized footage in all conditions,” as TechRadar assures techradar.com. You can’t go terribly wrong – it’s about finding the perfect fit for how and what you shoot.

Upcoming and Rumored Models (Late 2025 & Beyond)

The action cam race isn’t slowing down. In fact, late 2025 is shaping up to bring another round of big launches, if rumors and company statements are to be believed. Here’s a look at what’s expected on the horizon:

GoPro Hero14 Black: GoPro has released a new flagship Hero cam every year like clockwork, and 2025 looks to continue the trend. CEO Nick Woodman revealed that GoPro plans to launch “two more cameras this year” (as of an August 2025 investor meeting) digitalcameraworld.com. One is the Max 2 (see below), and industry watchers fully expect the other to be the Hero14 Black, likely arriving in September 2025 (right on schedule with GoPro’s usual fall launch cycle) digitalcameraworld.com digitalcameraworld.com. What can we expect from Hero14? For one, a new custom processor GP3 chip is in development and is likely to debut in the Hero14, bringing more computing power digitalcameraworld.com. This could enable higher frame rates, better stabilization, or perhaps the leap to 8K video (finally putting GoPro on par with Insta360’s resolution). Another strong rumor is a larger sensor – possibly a 1-inch sensor – to dramatically improve low-light and image quality digitalcameraworld.com. GoPro’s CEO hinted they’re working on improving low-light performance, and a bigger sensor would do just that digitalcameraworld.com. It might also allow 4K120 without crop or even 5.3K at 240fps as some leaks speculate mojogear.eu. Of course, nothing is official yet. But based on GoPro’s track record and patent filings, we might also see further experiments in design: maybe a Hero with a built-in gimbal or interchangeable lens mount (there’s a GoPro patent for a “modular Osmo Pocket-style camera” with a detachable gimbal head imaging-resource.com). Time will tell if that’s a Hero line product or a new line entirely.
GoPro Max 2 (360 Camera): This is confirmed by GoPro itself – the Max 2 360-degree camera is slated for release by end of 2025 digitalcameraworld.com. The original Max was popular for 360 shots and as a GoPro that could do front and back recording, but it’s badly outgunned now by Insta360’s 360 cams. The Max 2 should bring GoPro back into contention for VR and reframed content. Rumors suggest 5.7K was yesterday’s news – the Max 2 might shoot 8K 360 video (required to stay competitive) and could even share tech with Hero14 (perhaps using two of whatever sensor the Hero14 has). Leaked prototype photos and reports indicate a similar rectangular design with dual lenses, maybe a larger touchscreen, and better waterproofing digitalcameraworld.com. If you’re into 360, it might be worth waiting for the Max 2 rather than buying an X5 now, especially if you prefer GoPro’s workflow.
GoPro’s Mystery “Pro” Camera: Beyond the two 2025 cameras, GoPro has hinted at a third, pro-level camera in development for 2026 focused on low-light excellence photorumors.com digitalcameraworld.com. This could be a new line entirely – perhaps a GoPro with a 1-inch (or larger) sensor and maybe even interchangeable lenses, targeting professionals or prosumers. It’s possible this is an answer to the Sony RX0 or to carve a niche above the current action cams. While that’s beyond 2025, it shows GoPro is planning a multi-tier strategy: the regular Hero line, the 360 line, and a high-end “Pro” model for cinematographers.
GoPro “Osmo Pocket” Competitor: In an interesting twist, patent watchers found GoPro has a patent for a small gimbal-stabilized camera – essentially a rival to DJI’s Osmo Pocket series photorumors.com imaging-resource.com. The patent illustrations show a detachable camera module that can rotate 180° or more on a handheld grip imaging-resource.com. This suggests GoPro might be developing a modular handheld camera that offers mechanical stabilization (gimbal) combined with electronic stabilization, and possibly the ability to attach the camera module to other mounts (even a drone – the patent notes use in a “quadcopter”) imaging-resource.com imaging-resource.com. If this comes to fruition, it could be a GoPro take on the DJI Pocket or the Insta360 FlowState gimbal cam – perhaps allowing the best of both worlds (gimbal smoothness + action cam toughness). There’s no guarantee this will hit the market, but it shows GoPro isn’t sitting still; they’re exploring new form factors and ideas beyond the traditional GoPro box.
DJI Osmo Action 6 or Updates: DJI hasn’t announced anything yet, and given the Action 5 Pro just launched in late 2024, an Osmo Action 6 might not appear until 2026. However, DJI is unpredictable – they could have a mid-cycle refresh or a variant. One candidate could be an “Action 5S” with minor tweaks, or perhaps a budget model to compete at the lower end. DJI did surprise everyone by entering the 360 market (Osmo 360) in 2025, so their focus might be there for now. Also rumored is a DJI “Osmo Nano” – leaks suggest DJI might be working on an even smaller action camera or gimbal (“Nano” could imply a tiny handheld camera) digitalcameraworld.com. No concrete info yet, but if true it would compete with Insta360’s Go series or GoPro’s Mini for the ultralight segment.
Insta360’s Next Moves: Insta360 launched the X5 and Go Ultra this year, and the Ace Pro 2 in late 2024, so their lineup is fresh. But Insta360 is always innovating. They could potentially release an Ace Pro 2 One R-style modular edition or new lenses. Also, their subsidiary Antigravity launched the A1 drone (a compact 360 camera drone) imaging-resource.com, which hints Insta360 is exploring aerial perspectives too. Perhaps we’ll see more in the “flying camera” space – e.g., an update to Snap’s Pixy concept or self-flying follow cams that fit the action cam niche. In fact, Wired’s guide even added the Hover Air X1 – a palm-sized self-flying camera – to its roster of action cams wired.com. That device, released in 2023 and showcased at CES 2025, can take off from your hand, capture 2.7K video of you autonomously, and land back – all without a controller. It underscores an emerging trend: autonomous camera-drones that function as flying action cams for hands-free selfies and tracking shots. We might see Insta360 or DJI integrate more of this autonomy into their products (for instance, improved subject tracking, auto-follow modes using AI).

In short, the tail end of 2025 looks incredibly exciting. GoPro is expected to come out swinging with the Hero14 Black – likely introducing major upgrades to reclaim any ground lost to DJI and Insta360. A new GoPro Max 2 will heat up the 360 race just as DJI enters that arena. And on the horizon are entirely new categories (modular gimbal cams, pro low-light models) that could redefine what an “action camera” is.

For consumers, this competition is fantastic news. It means faster innovation and better value. If you need a camera now, you’ve got excellent choices as we’ve detailed. But if you’re the type who always wants the very latest, keep an eye on September/October 2025 – the rumor mill suggests GoPro’s launch could be one of its biggest in years, and we’ll see if they can set a new benchmark that the others will race to match.

Conclusion: The action camera market in 2025 is a far cry from the GoPro-only days of a decade ago. Whether you’re shredding down a mountain, diving beneath the waves, or narrating a travel vlog, there’s now a purpose-built camera to capture your story. As of now, GoPro, DJI, and Insta360 each offer flagship devices that are arguably the best ever made in this category, and they each excel in different ways – from GoPro’s all-rounder prowess, to DJI’s endurance and clarity, to Insta360’s cutting-edge resolution and creative flexibility. Expert reviewers agree that you really can’t go wrong with any of the top models techradar.com; it’s about choosing the one that aligns with your adventure. And with new models on the horizon, the choices will only get richer. So gear up, pick your camera, and as GoPro’s founder might say, “Don’t forget to press record.” Happy shooting!

Sources: Expert reviews and tests from Wired wired.com wired.com, TechRadar techradar.com, The Verge theverge.com, DPReview dpreview.com dpreview.com, The Drone Girl thedronegirl.com thedronegirl.com, T3 t3.com t3.com, and manufacturer disclosures.