If you are looking to buy an action camera on a budget, there are quite a few to choose from.
I have reviewed the best action cameras under 100 dollars to narrow down your choices to 7 of the best options available.
My recommended choice is the Polaroid Sport Action Camera. It is way under budget and you get a good all round action camera from a reputable manufacturer.
Given its low cost, it is perfect to take on trips and vacations without the fear of losing or damaging an expensive piece of tech.
It doesn’t have any of the high end specs, but I recommend it based on the ‘fun per cost’ value it gives you.
Here is our list of the highest-quality action camcorders and cameras below 100 dollars now available for people on a budget.
Table of Contents
AKASO V50X Native 4K30fps WiFi Action Camera
REMALI CaptureCam 4K Ultra HD Action Camera
Polaroid Sport Action Camera 720p 12.1mp
WOLFANG GA100 Action Camera 4K
The 7 Best Action Cameras Under 100
I have researched for the best action camera under 100 so you don’t have to. I have included the Pros and Cons of each to give you a TL;DR rundown of features.
AKASO V50X Native 4K30fps WiFi Action Camera
AKASO is quickly establishing itself as one of the recognizable brands in the budget action camera industry. The V50 is their premier camera range and the only one that is capable of filming in 4K30fps.
The Akaso V50X is the updated V50, albeit you’ve probably never heard of it. In terms of specifications, it is closer to the previous V50 Pro than the V50. It has a 2-inch IPS display, a configurable display position, a gyroscope, and WiFi, just as the V50 Pro.
The Sony 20MP camera captures stunning daytime footage as well as good nighttime video footage. You won’t be losing a single detail in your photographs since you can shoot at up to 170° wide-angle.
In comparison to the V50, the touch display panel is unquestionably the most brilliant addition, putting it nearer to GoPros, which have been using touchscreens since the fairly recent HERO5 edition.
This is not the sole native 4K action camera that costs less than $100. However, I like it for two main factors:
- The fact that AKASO is a somewhat well-established enterprise means that their software is often patched, and maintenance for their complete product range is typically extremely good.
- The AKASO V50X comes with a large accessories package that includes 12 unique clamps, a watertight casing, and remote control. You really have every single thing that you’ll ever need right in the package, which definitely makes it an action camera to consider.
Pros:
- 4K 30FPS video.
- WiFi.
- Touch screen functionality
- adjustable viewing angle
Cons:
- 4K video limited to 9 mins duration
- Reviewers complain about the audio recording quality.
REMALI CaptureCam 4K Ultra HD Action Camera
The REMALI CaptureCam 4K boasts a sleek modern appearance, is sturdily built with high-quality plastics, and is available in black. Its style is comparable to other action cameras and also the most affordable sports cameras.
However, the CaptureCam does require a protective casing to go undersea.
The CaptureCam also has 2.4GHz Wi-Fi connectivity and the REMALI mobile application, allowing you to operate the action camera with your cellphone or experience hands-free operation with straightforward voice commands. Another option to utilize the CaptureCam is with the wireless remote that is included in its box.
However, the CaptureCam does not include a memory card, so customers will be required to purchase one themselves; if you have an existing one, you will also have to reformat it.
The REMALI CaptureCam 4K is an excellent GoPro competitor, capable of reaching 20MP with 4K video but with slightly lower video and image resolution. Despite a few drawbacks the CaptureCam 4K is considered one of the better low to medium-priced sports cameras available, with most of the features you could desire in an action camera.
The REMALI CaptureCam 4K is a fantastic moderate-grade action camera that delivers an excellent outcome when it comes to video resolution, functionality, and presets. It is one of the most affordable and best action cameras.
Pros:
- 4K video.
- WiFi.
- IPX8 waterproof case
- 3 batteries included
Cons:
- limited to a 32MB sized micro sd card
- Lacks camera stabilization.
Dragon Touch 4K Action Camera
If you just want the most affordable entry-level sports camera, go directly to the Dragon Touch 4K Vision 3.
It’s priced well under $100 and performs a respectable job of shooting High definition video at 60 frames per second. Recording at better resolution is also supported, up to 4K at 30 frames per second (optimized).
There is no scarcity of packaged accessories, as there is with the most affordable sports cameras currently available. When you place it in the watertight casing, you have an undersea camera. The accompanying wrist-strap wireless remote is uncomplicated, but it works well for shooting photos and recording footage without having to interact with the device directly.
You may imagine that software from a virtually obscure company like Dragon Touch would be an issue. Nevertheless, I discovered it to be quite functional, which really shouldn’t come as a surprise given that Dragon Touch is predominantly a tablet manufacturer.
It should be noted that, regardless of its name, the Dragon Touch Vision 3 lacks a touch display. Dragon Touch is merely the company’s name!
The Dragon Touch Vision 3 is now my suggestion for the Best action camera under $100 on the market at the moment. Consider the Dragon Touch Vision 4 if you need EIS and an extra microphone.
Pros:
- 4K 30FPS video.
- IPX8 waterproof case
- Different mode options, slo-mo etc
Cons:
- Less than crisp audio recording
- No WiFi
Polaroid Sport Action Camera 720p 12.1mp
Polaroid made its reputation by manufacturing instant cameras, but the brand is evolving and has developed its own sports camera, the Polaroid Sport Action Camera.
The broad angle lens just can not compare to the 170-degree extreme wide angles expected from one of the mainstream sports action cameras. That implies you don’t get as much footage in the clip. A narrower viewing lens is preferred for easy videography (which lowers the fisheye result).
The Polaroid Sport Action Camera, which has a striking resemblance to the GoPro HERO session, is a really charming sports camera that offers a terrific and economical present. It’s really easy to use and a terrific action camera to get a beginner started in the realm of recording action videos.
A useful characteristic is the in-built small magnets, which allow the Polaroid Sport Action Camera to stick to different metallic surfaces and remain put.
This camera is my choice for best action camera under 100 dollars.
Pros:
- Very low cost no frills fun camera
- Easy to use
- Magnetic mounting option
- Waterproof
- Perfect for GoPro alternative for kids to use on vacation
Cons:
- 720p Video
- No fancy modes
HLS Sport Action Camera 4K
The HLS sport action camera offers 4K at 30 frames per second and 1080P (Full High definition) at 60 frames per second. The greater the frame rate, the finer the footage will be. In my perspective, the HLS action camera is excellent for High Definition (1080P) shooting, but not for 4K. Other sports cameras with this resolution give higher quality video.
This camera is equipped with a watertight case. This casing is very simple to install and provides adequate water protection. Some sports cameras can function underwater without a casing, although they are significantly more costly. Most individuals, in my opinion, do not require a totally watertight camera.
Pros:
- 4K video.
- WiFi.
- IPX8 waterproof case
- 3 batteries included
Cons:
- limited to a 32MB sized micro sd card
- Lacks good camera stabilization.
WOLFANG GA100 Action Camera 4K
If you’re looking for a camera that has built-in slo-mo, charges in under three hours and comes in well under budget, you have a winner.
The Wolfang GA100 Action Camera boasts a native 4K resolution of up to 20 megapixels as well as the option to use an external audio input. It comes with a watertight casing that is water resistant up to forty meters.
It also has Wi-Fi, a digital image stabilizer, and an application called Live DV with which you can transfer photographs and films to your smartphone, or if you prefer to utilize it for a remote control-like functionality, you can snap photos and videos by pressing the button located on the side. In terms of SD card capacity, this sports camera supports 32 to 64 GB.
The built-in 3-axis stabilization gyro keeps the digital image stabilizer in position. EIS software, when applied, guards against accidents, instability, and camera distortion. This ensures that footage and pictures remain steady and crisp.
The action camera also features a helmet band, J-hook clasp, and a screw-in helmet attachment, making it a headgear camera. With the addition of those extra accessories, it may also be used as a motorsports camera, a water sports camera, a kayaking camera, a scuba diving camera, and even a vlogging camera!
Pros:
- 4K video.
- WiFi.
- Remote included
- External Mic
Cons:
- Lacks good camera stabilization.
Apexcam Action Camera 4K
The Apexcam Action Camera 4K has an exquisite design with a “traditional” sports camera appearance, it is solidly made with high-quality plastics, and it comes in a gorgeous black color. Its shape is comparable to earlier sports cameras, with chamfered edges and no waterproofing without the cover, and it has a tiny screen on the rear to view your footage.
In terms of specifications, the Apexcam has a Sony sensor that enables it to shoot 4K in 60 frames per second and 20MP images with a 170° telephoto zoom lens with an aperture of f/2.8. It employs EIS (Electronic Image Stabilization), which allows up to 4K resolution but does not function while filming at 100 frames per second or above.
This Apexcam sports camera is a wonderful GoPro replacement for a low price, and despite being a moderate sports camera, it offers decent resolution video for both photographs and movies. It can shoot in 4K quality at 60 frames per second and with excellent stabilization.
Except for a handful of GoPro-specific attachments, Apexcam sports cameras are compatible with the majority of GoPro attachments. The Apexcam Action Camera’s batteries are also rather good; it has a 1350mAh battery that can last roughly 100 minutes in 1080p.
Pros:
- 4K video.
- Thousands of positive Amazon reviews
- Compatible with most GoPro accessories
Cons:
- Some reviews complain about poor battery life
What to look for in an action camera
I have added some important considerations for choosing an action camera below.
Which is best, A Native 4k or a Nonnative 4K action camera?
The import resolution for 4K native media is by default 3840 by 2160. (4K). Despite having identical quality, native 4K is preferable since it has greater detail in the image. This type of detailing is different from detailing by upscaling.
All of my reviewed ‘best action camera under 100 dollars’ do not feature native 4K. So if that is essential to your needs you will have to consider a more premium priced action camera.
Do you need Wifi with your action camera?
For using your action camera to take pictures or movies, wifi is not needed at all. Your action camera’s memory card will be used to store whatever you take pictures of.
You would require wifi if you wanted to broadcast live or upload the pictures to the cloud straight from your camera, but for all other purposes, you can get by without it.
Is an action camera waterproof?
One of the primary reasons to purchase an action camera is that it can be used everywhere, including underseas. When it concerns water resistance, though, not all action cameras are considered equivalent.
Most action cameras feature water resistance without the requirement for an extra casing.
Typically, this waterproofing capacity will function below to a depth of roughly 10 meters, which becomes sufficient for most applications excluding scuba.
After this recommended level, you’ll need to put on a specific water-resistant cover to keep the camera safe.
Some action cameras, meanwhile, are not watertight whatsoever. To guard them against moisture damage, you have to purchase a specific water-resistant case if it is not included..
What frame rate is ideal?
The frame rate you choose for your camera will vary depending on a variety of elements, including the type of video you’re creating, the resulting video’s sampling rate, the atmosphere and sentiment you want to convey, and the enhancements you want to use.
Additionally, it will depend on the following factors:
- Amount of motion in your video
- Goal and aesthetic of the video
- Medium of broadcasting
- The final size of video
When it comes to resolutions of action cameras, 4K is a reasonable starting place, although some can only film at this quality with lower frames per second.
The finest action cameras can record 4K footage (or greater) at frames per second that surpass 30 frames per second. This implies you’ll have more shots to deal with for sharper image resolution, and if you decide to go slo-mo, the additional frames will offer velvety smooth slow-motion footage.
Is slow motion a feature you need?
While not strictly essential, the slow-motion feature draws attention to features of a film that might otherwise be overlooked during translation. Slow-motion films provide variation to your images as well. They are regular video clips filmed at a higher frame per second and rendered at a lower rate.
Does the action cam have In-camera Stabilization?
In action cameras, the following are the main three forms of stabilization:
- Optical Image Stabilization
- Gyroscope Image Stabilization
- Gimbal 3-Axis Image Stabilization
With the newest I.S. modules, action cameras featuring image stabilization allow flawless snapshots even while in movement, often up to a 5-stop benefit.
Many action camera manufacturers label their image stabilization as O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilization), V.R. (Vibration Reduction), Optical SteadyShot, EIS (Electronic Image Stabilization), V.C. (Vibration Control), and S.R. (Shake Reduction)
It’s imperative to purchase an action camera with excellent picture stabilization functionality, particularly if you’ll be moving around with the camera to shoot movies.
After reviewing the best action camera under 100 dollars, it is apparent that good image stabilization is a feature only the more premium action cameras have. Although a video light can be added to improve video quality in darker environments.
Are there accessories available for your Action camera?
There are a multitude of accessories available for your action camera. They protect action cameras against moisture, falls, and other risks when they are used in harsh conditions.
Sturdy cages safeguard action cameras when they are dropped when hiking in the mountains or mountain riding. Head mounts and body mounts help you stay hands free.
Waterproof casings are vital while snorkeling or doing water sports, or when videotaping your kayaking adventure. Special lenses are also available to enhance undersea recordings. Other lens guards keep scratches and damage at bay while still enabling you to see clearly.
Attaching mics and other recording devices to action cameras allows for better audio recordings since they pick up speech and tunes more accurately. Camera extender handles and cords extend the reach of action cameras, allowing you to take long-distance photos.
Conclusion
The fun factor of buying an action camera is considerable, including being able to use it deep in the ocean when scuba diving, placing it on your safety helmet or raising it upward on a selfie stick while sliding down a water slide.
Action cameras fulfill all these activities, all you have to do is pick one and get active.
If you’re searching for a dependable action camera at a good price point, you should try out the Polaroid sport action camera.
The Polaroid sports action camera offers excellent value for money. The quality of the footage is fantastic, the gadget works flawlessly, and the overall design is also outstanding. You may record stunning underwater footage with the provided waterproof casing. It also includes two battery packs, which is a significant benefit that will save you a considerable amount of money. It is really the best action camera under 100 dollars.