Don’t have time to read through the whole review, we recommend the COOAU 4K 20MP as the best action camera under $100!
Action cameras are quite popular these days – I’d say they’ve nearly taken the place of video cameras these days. While the GoPro is often cited as the most popular of action cameras, it can be a bit more on the pricier side. Let’s jump right into the best 10 action cameras under $100, and see how you can get the best bang for your budget when selecting your camera.
1 | COOAU 4K 20MP Wi-Fi Action Camera
The COOAU 4K boasts all the key features that you’d want in your action camera, no matter the price. The dimensions for this camera are 2.28 x 0.98 x 1.57 inches, and it weighs 15.9 ounces.
- Video Quality: The COOAU 4K features 4K/30FPS, 2.7K/30FPS, 1080P/60FPS, 720P/120FPS4K, etc. (depends on the setting selected).
- Image Quality: The COOAU also offers 20MP picture quality; another really great deal for the price of this one.
- Waterproof: You get a waterproof case with the COOAU that allows you to take the camera down to 131ft underwater.
- Battery Life: This camera comes with two batteries.
- Memory: This camera takes the class 10 microSD card, and it is recommended that you use up to the 64GB size for best results. The company recommends that you purchase the MicroSDXC Evo Select memory card.
- Wifi: You can connect to wifi via app on this camera, which allows you to share pictures almost instantly.
- Feature Set: This camera has many settings, such as Time lapse Videos, Smart EIS image stabilization, and upgraded waterproof depth.
What Sets the COOAU Apart
This camera comes with an improved high-fidelity external microphone for improved video sound. You have better control over the quality of the pictures produced by the white balance feature.
Cons of the COOAU 4K
- Colors may not always display properly
- Battery life is not that great
Useful Review
“Received this action camera a week ago. I wasn’t really expecting too much for the price but I must say it’s great. I mainly use it for backpacking and fishing trips to where it gets bumped around quite a bit. But to this day still works flawlessly. Takes great pictures and the eis works great on video mode. Easy to use and the app works great to upload pics and videos. And the wrist remote is fantastic to take pics while on the run. Didn’t use the adapters that came with it but did get a head strap and backpack strap to clip it to and with that it works great. Glad I chose this little camera holds its own to my go pro. I would highly recommend this product to all my friends which I have and three of them are already ordering theirs. Also shipping was really fast which gave me the chance to use this on my last backpacking trip. ”
2 | APEMAN A79 4K Action Camera 20MP
With the Apeman A79, you don’t have to worry about buying your own external mic, it comes along with the package – as well as a number of additional accessories. The dimensions of this camera are 1.97 x 1.18 x 0.79 inches, and it weighs 1.1 pounds.
- Video Quality: The Apeman A79 comes with 4K Ultra HD video quality, allowing you to capture 1080p@60fps, 1080p@30fps, 2.7K@30fps, 720p@120fps, 4K@30fps (depending on the setting).
- Image Quality: Like the Campark, this offers 20MP picture quality; another really great deal for the price of this one.
- Waterproof: You get a waterproof case with the Apeman that allows you to take the camera down to 131ft underwater. Great for those of you who scuba dive!
- Battery Life: This camera comes with two lithium ion batteries (both required for use).
- Memory: This camera takes the class 10 microSD card, and it is recommended that you use up to the 64GB size for best results. Note, like all cameras in this list, the SD card must be formatted for use.
- Wifi: You can connect to wifi via app on this camera, which allows you to share pictures almost instantly.
- Feature Set: This camera has many settings, such as Time lapse Videos, Still Pictures, Slow Motion, Burst, Selfie Timer, Loop Recordings and Auto Mode.
What Sets the Apeman A79 Apart
The high-level of mega-pixels offered by this camera really helps set it apart from others on this list. So do the provided external microphone and accompanying accessories.
Cons of the Apeman A79
- Some feel the video quality could be better
- Mic quality (internal and external) have room for improvement
Useful Review
“I’ve used a professional studio camera for my YouTube channels & other media sites for a while now, & wanted something that could more easily be taken on the go. I bought a GoPro several years ago & don’t remember having any problems for the time I used it, but didn’t want to invest that kind of $$ again… especially since I only need an action cam about 20% (or less) of the time for my videos. After doing a little searching, I found this little guy, & he hasn’t let me down yet.
The photos & videos are both sharp, albeit a bit distorted from the fish-eye lens (which I don’t mind). I haven’t tried all of its features, nor do I have any interest in trying it underwater. But I HAVE tried using the WP case while filming in a rainstorm. It performed beautifully. I’ve found little need for the ridiculous amount of attachments that came with it, save for the remote (which is REALLY useful) & the bike handle mount.”
3 | Campark 4K 20MP Action Camera
The features highlighted by the Campark 4K include its Waterproof image stabilizer and the sport camera with its Wifi 2.4G remote control. The dimensions for this camera are 9.76 x 4.65 x 2.87 inches, and it weighs 1.1 pounds.
- Video Quality: The Campark also comes with 4K Ultra HD video quality, allowing you to capture 4K 30fps/2.7K 30fps/1080P 60fps/1080P 30fps (depending on the setting). Most of the reviews are focused on how clear are the images produced by this camera.
- Image Quality: This camera offers 20MP, and as mentioned above, that’s really great for the price of this one.
- Waterproof: Like the Dragon Touch, this camera is not waterproof itself, but does come with a clear casing that makes it waterproof up to 131FT underwater.
- Battery Life: This camera comes with one lithium ion battery that lasts up to 90 minutes before needing a recharge.
- Memory: This camera takes the class 10 microSD card, and it is recommended that you use up to the 64GB size for best results.
- Wifi: With the built-in wi-fi, so that you can transfer photos directly to your phone or tablet whenever you desire.
- Feature Set: Features include external microphone support, 170º wide angle lens, and the time lapse feature.
What Sets the Campark Camera Apart
For one thing, getting 20MP at such a low price is a STEAL! In addition, another key feature is the top quality professional image stabilization, which makes a big difference when you’re taking action shots.
Cons of the Campark
- Poor user manual
- Sound quality decreases when the camera is in the waterproof case
Useful Review
“Bought this to use for my underwater scuba trip (roughly 20 metres underwater) and was able to take videos and pictures no problem! While the picture quality isn’t as good as the GoPro (fairly close), the write speed to the memory card was almost instant (GoPro I had to wait a couple seconds to write to the card). Great price too and so far haven’t had any issues (had the camera for 2 months so far).”
4 | Victure Action Camera AC700 4K
Quite popular in Europe, the Victure AC700 is a powerful small action camera. It’s dimensions are 2.36 x 0.98 x 1.57 inches, and it weighs just 2.2 ounces.
- Video Quality: Like others you’ll see on this list, the Victure AC700 comes with 4K Ultra HD video quality, allowing you to capture 4K 30fps, besides, 2.7K 30fps, 1080P 60fps, 1080P 30fps, 720P 120fps resolution video (depending on the setting).
- Image Quality: This is another affordable camera that offers 20MP picture quality; a really great deal for the price of this one.
- Waterproof: You get a waterproof case with the Victure that allows you to take the camera down to 131ft underwater.
- Battery Life: This camera comes with two lithium ion batteries (both required for use).
- Memory: This camera takes the class 10 microSD card, and it is recommended that you use up to the 64GB size for best results. Note, like some cameras on this list, the SD card is not included.
- Feature Set: This camera offers 170º super-wide angle vision, and Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS).
What Sets the Victure AC700
This camera comes with a hi-fidelity external microphone, which helps improve the sound quality for all your videos.
Cons of the Victure AC700
- EIS is not available in 4K – major bummer
- Recorded audio is just “decent”
- Doesn’t have wifi
Useful Review
“After watching many videos and reading all the reviews, I narrowed down my choice to what I felt was the best value and performance for action cameras under $100. I settled on the Victure brand and finally the AC-700. This camera takes stunning video and is easy to use. I have only tested it in the car so far and it performs great. The eternal mic for me is one of the main reasons for choosing this camera over the other Victure models.”
5 | Dragon Touch 4K Action Camera 16MP
The Dragon Touch is another great budget action camera, that comes with a clear casing to make it waterproof. The dimensions for this camera are 2.36 x 1.18 x 1.97 inches, and it weighs 5.3 ounces.
- Video Quality: The Dragon Touch comes with 4K Ultra HD video quality, allowing you to capture 4K/30FPS, 2.7K/30fps, 1080P/60FPS video. Most of the reviews are focused on how clear are the images produced by this camera.
- Image Quality: This camera offers 16MP for regular photo quality.
- Waterproof: This camera is not waterproof itself, but does come with a clear casing that makes it waterproof up to 98FT underwater.
- Battery Life: You get 2 rechargeable batteries when you buy the Dragon Touch, and each lasts for up to 90 minutes of recorded video (on the lowest setting).
- Memory: This camera takes the class 10 microSD card, and it is recommended that you use up to the 64GB size for best results.
- Wifi: Get built-in wi-fi, so that you can transfer photos directly to your phone or tablet whenever you desire.
- Feature Set: There are a variety of shooting modes which include loop recording, slow motion and time lapse.
What Sets the Dragon Touch 4K Camera Apart
The Dragon Touch has a few shooting modes that you don’t see on many other cameras, such as dramashot (rapid fire pictures), image rotation, and even a driving mode setting. In addition, this camera comes with an accessory kit that includes a variety of mounts for your camera.
Cons of the Dragon Touch
- 4K quality video has some limitations
- Image quality is lower than 20MP
Useful Review
“Yes, this is a knock-off GoPro camera. Is there a difference in quality? In my experience (having used both), no, there is not much of a difference. There may be just a couple of odd grammatical errors on some of the settings menus, but other than that, this camera is nothing short of impressive. It came with more than enough equipment to mount the camera to almost anything you want to mount it to.”
6 | VanTop Moment 4C 4K/60FPS Action Camera
The VanTop Moment is a feature rich little action camera. It’s dimensions are 9.7 x 4.4 x 4.3 inches, and it weighs just 2.7 ounces.
- Video Quality: The VanTop Moment features 4K Ultra HD video quality, allowing you to capture K/60fps, 4K/30fps, 2.7K/30fps, 1080P/120fps, based on the setting that you select.
- Image Quality: This camera offers 16MP for static images.
- Waterproof: With the provided waterproof case, you can use this camera up to 98ft underwater.
- Battery Life: You get two 1350 mAh batteries with your purchase of this camera.
- Memory: This camera takes the class 10 microSD card, and it is recommended that you use up to the 64GB size for best results.
- Wifi: You can connect to wifi via app on this camera, which allows you to share pictures almost instantly.
- Feature Set: This camera has great features, like EIS, 170º wide angle lens, time lapse images, and burst mode.
What Sets the VanTop Moment 4C Camera Apart
This camera has a self-timer as well as a touch screen, which is quite handy (and similar to the more expensive GoPro).
Cons of the VanTop Moment 4C Camera
- Megapixels on this camera max out at just 16
- Can take a little long to charge up
Useful Review
“Bought this mainly because it has 60fps 4K, which most of the other cameras have 30fps. I was blown away by how many accessories came stuffed in the box though – including 2 batteries, which is a big feature for me – I usually have to buy extra batteries separately for everything which increases the price.
The touchscreen surprised me – makes a lot of operations a lot easier so that’s a plus. The timer mode has a lot more options than the camera I had before, I explore alone most of the time so it’s hard to setup the shots on a short timer. The remote is a great upgrade too – I’m mostly using this on a bicycle and it’s almost impossible to click the buttons while moving, so the remote just makes it way easier to take photos/videos now.
Really no complaints so far – great little camera! ”
7 | Remali CaptureCam 4K Ultra HD
The Remali CaptureCam IS on the higher side from a cost perspective, but does make up for it in the additional accessories that it comes with. This camera’s dimensions are 9.06 x 6.69 x 2.76 inches, and it weighs 1.5 lbs.
- Video Quality: The Crosstour Action Camera offers 4K video at 25FPS, as well as 2.7K 30FPS, 1080P 60FPS, 1080P 30FPS, 720P 120FPS, 720P 60FPS, depending on the option you select.
- Image Quality: This camera offers 12MP for static images.
- Waterproof: With the provided waterproof case, you can use this camera up to 98ft underwater.
- Battery Life: You get three lithium ion batteries with this camera.
- Memory: This camera takes the class 10 microSD card, and it is recommended that you use up to the 32GB size for best results.
- Wifi: You can connect to wifi via app on this camera, which allows you to share pictures almost instantly. There is also a remote that comes with it that is operated by wifi as well.
- Feature Set: The Remali CaptureCam comes with a 170º wide angle lens, a remote control, and a shock-proof carrying case.
What Sets the Remali CaptureCam Apart
On Amazon, this camera has the accolade #1 “Best Rated in Sports & Action Video Cameras” and also rated as “Best Accessory Bundle”. The accessories that come with this camera include pretty much everything you need to take your camera and go (except for the micro SD card).
Cons of the Remali CaptureCam
- Image quality is only 12MP for photos
- Battery does drain fast when using 4K
Useful Review
“I wanted to save some money and am always leery of trends like GoPro. My son started High School baseball this year and I wanted to start documenting the games for college scouts. The camera is very easy to use. I only used the 720 resolution to save space on the SD card but the quality and color were great. Next game I have a backup card so will bump to 1080. I don’t have anything that’s 4K at the moment so can comment on that. There’s even sound but I’m told it is better with the alternate case back. The main reason I chose the Remali is the customer service in the reviews is highly rated and I have to say it’s no joke. I had two issues. The first one they responded to my email within hours. For the second issue I got a call from the owner and had a long discussion. I don’t think they could do better.”
8 | AKASO EK7000 4K WiFi Sports Action Camera
A bestseller on Amazon, the AKASO EK7000 has amazing features that would attract anyone seeking a high-quality action camera. The dimensions for this camera are 0.9x2x1.5 inches, and it weighs 12 ounces. Here are a few highlights:
- Video Quality: The AKASO offers ultra HD 4K video quality, allowing you to capture K 25FPS/2.7K 30FPS/1080P 60FPS video. Most of the reviews are focused on how clear are the images produced by this camera
- Image Quality: In reference to standard photos, you get 12 megapixels.
- Waterproof: This camera is waterproof up to 98FT underwater, allowing you to film the water activities of your choice.
- Battery Life: You get 2 rechargeable batteries when you buy the AKASO, and each lasts for up to 90 minutes of recorded video.
- Memory: This camera takes the class 10 microSD card, and it is recommended that you use the 32GB size for best results.
- Wifi: Get built-in wi-fi, so that you can transfer photos directly to your phone or tablet whenever you desire.
- Feature Set: There are a variety of shooting modes which include loop recording, burst photo, and time lapse.
What Sets the AKASO EK7000 Apart
This camera boasts a 170 wide angle; which is twice the view that you’d typically get on a camera this size. In addition, this camera comes with a wrist wear remote control so that you can control the camera from afar. A great feature for those times when you need to take a picture of yourself, for instance. Also, if having a black camera doesn’t interest you, this one comes in a few different colors as well.
Cons of the AKASO EK7000
- Image quality is only 12MP for photos
- Instructions provided are not very good / clear
Useful Review
“I wanted an action camera to document fishing trips and other outdoor activities but didn’t know too much about them so I was uneasy about spending ~$300 on a GoPro. After searching hundreds of reviews, I decided on the AKASO EK7000 to test out the functionality and usefulness of an action camera. I was blown away..”
9 | Piwoka Action Camera 1080P
The Piwoka Action Camera comes in a few different colors and is great for kids and beginners. The dimensions on this camera are 7.4 x 4.8 x 2.2 inches and it weighs 10.5 ounces.
- Video Quality: The Piwoka offers 1080P quality video up to 30 fps.
- Image Quality: You get 12MP with this camera, as well as 2x zoom.
- Waterproof: This comes with a waterproof case that works for up to 98ft underwaterd.
- Battery Life: This camera comes with a long life 900 mAh rechargeable battery, that lasts up to 90 minutes before needing a charge.
- Memory: This camera takes the class 10 microSD card, and it is recommended that you use up to the 32 GB size for best results.
- Wifi: You can connect to wifi via app on this camera, which allows you to share pictures almost instantly.
- Feature Set: This camera offers a 140º wide angle lens, and comes with free accessories, like a selfie stick and equipment to attach the camera to nearly anything.
What Sets the Piwoka Action Camera Apart
This camera offers 2x zoom, which is a feature not seen on many other action cameras on this list.
Cons of the Piwoka Action Camera
- Megapixels on this camera max out at just 12
- Image quality not as good indoors as outdoors
Useful Review
“Received this action camera a week ago. I wasn’t really expecting too much for the price but I must say it’s great. I mainly use it for backpacking and fishing trips to where it gets bumped around quite a bit. But to this day still works flawlessly. Takes great pictures and the eis works great on video mode. Easy to use and the app works great to upload pics and videos. And the wrist remote is fantastic to take pics while on the run. Didn’t use the adapters that came with it but did get a head strap and backpack strap to clip it to and with that it works great. Glad I chose this little camera holds its own to my go pro. I would highly recommend this product to all my friends which I have and three of them are already ordering theirs. Also shipping was really fast which gave me the chance to use this on my last backpacking trip. ”
10 | Crosstour Action Camera 1080P Full HD
The Crosstour Action Camera is great for capturing active shots for beginners. It’s dimensions are 2.36 x 1.65 x 0.98 inches, and it weighs just 2.26 ounces.
- Video Quality: The Crosstour Action Camera offers 1080P quality video up to 30 fps.
- Image Quality: This camera offers 14MP for static images.
- Waterproof: With the provided waterproof case, you can use this camera up to 98ft underwater.
- Battery Life: You get two lithium ion batteries with this camera, and a USB cord for charging.
- Memory: This camera takes the class 10 microSD card, and it is recommended that you use up to the 32GB size for best results.
- Wifi: You can connect to wifi via app on this camera, which allows you to share pictures almost instantly.
- Feature Set: The best features on this camera are its 170º wide angle lens and the fact that the camera has been updated, as of June 2020.
What Sets the Crosstour Action Camera Apart
You can use the Crosstour Action Camera as a PC web camera, really extending the functionality of this camera beyond just that of an action camera.
Cons of the Crosstour Action Camera
- Does not feature 4K video quality – just 1080P
- User guide does not provide many details
Useful Review
“The CT7000 is a great inexpensive little 1080P camera. The image looks like it has been digitally sharpened with some artifacts, but otherwise, you can’t go wrong at that price! I use mine on prototype drones that have a tendency to fall out of the sky when something goes wrong. This camera has fallen out of the sky 50+ feet (15m) onto grass many times, and the image quality and functionality is like new. The accessory kit that comes with it is also very versatile for the price. It’s light enough to be lifted by my Syma X8C in good working order.”
Why You Need an Action Camera
An action camera is a necessity for those of you who are active and want to capture your experiences vividly, often aided by attaching the camera to something on your person. The most popular of these is the GoPro, but if you’re reading this post, you’re likely looking for something a bit on the cheaper side.
Action cameras are great for content creators who post their experience on blogs or vlogs. They are also great for those of you who just like to share your experiences with your family and friends. If you are going the less professional route, the cheaper options shown here are probably your best bet, especially if you are just starting out.
Different Types of Action Cameras
There are a few differences that you probably noted in the post among cameras:
- 4K or not 4K: To get the best quality, I recommend selected 4K video, the image will be sharper – and nothing beats a really crisp video image.
- Natively Waterproof: This is not really a thing for the low cost options shown here, but more expensive action cameras are often waterproof without the need for additional casing.
Considerations When Purchasing an Action Cameras
I’ve listed these as considerations for all the cameras depicted in this post, but let’s review – just in case you are still undecided on your preference:
- Video and Image Quality – Take a look at the specs for video quality (4K? Or just 1080p?), as well as image quality (is 14MP enough?). Some people are really into super sharp images and others are not. Just select what meets your needs.
- Lens Focal Length – For most of the cameras (save one) the focal length is set. This should not be a major setback, as shots are meant to be close up.
- Battery Life – Battery life is relatively the same for each camera shown here, and notedly, the life is shorter (between charges) if you use
- Memory – This is dependent on the type of MicroSD card you buy, but note limitations that some cameras have on the size of the MicroSD card that works with the camera.
- Feature Set – This includes the types of pictures you can take (burst, time lapse, etc.) as well as any included accessories. I usually try to get the most of both, but choose the options that you think you’ll use the most.
- Price – If you’re here, I know price is important to you! All of the cameras on this page are under $100, and they range from the top to the bottom of the spectrum within that range.
- Size and Weight – Take a close look at all the camera dimensions listed for each camera. You’d be surprised at the amount of variation between them. It’s usually +/- a pound, but it can make a difference if you tend to carry a lot of stuff on you.
Comparison of Low Cost Action Cameras to the GoPro Camera Hero7
Before we wrap this post, let’s just put in stats for the lowest-cost GoPro so that you can make the most informed decision:
- Dimensions: 1.75 x 2.44 x 1.1 inches
- Weight: 4.2 ounces
- Video Quality: 4K/ 30 fps.
- Image Quality: 10MP
- Waterproof: This camera is natively waterproof (no case needed)
- Battery Life: Built in rechargeable battery
- Memory: This camera takes the class 10 microSD card, and you can use whichever size you prefer
- Wifi: You can connect to wifi via app on this camera, which allows you to share pictures almost instantly
- Feature Set: You get great features with the GoPro Hero7: Touch screen, Voice control (no need for remote), video stabilization, vertical shooting capability, photo timer, and ability to shoot in burst mode.
As you can see, most of the features that are included with this GoPro you will find in the cheaper options. A key differentiator of the GoPro however is the fact that it’s waterproof and that it has a voice control option.
In Summary | The Best Action Cameras Under $100
There are many options for the best action cameras under $100, but my top recommendation is the COOAU 4K 20MP Wi-Fi Action Camera. This camera offers high quality video, very excellent reviews from users, and it comes with an extensive package of accessories. A few other options if your needs are different:
- Best camera for kids: Piwoka Action Camera 1080P
- Best lightweight action camera: Victure Action Camera AC700 4K
- Cheapest action camera: Piwoka Action Camera 1080P
- Best All Around: COOAU 4K 20MP
If you have an option that you prefer, either on this list or not, please mention it in the comments below!
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Last update on 2026-01-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API