Action Cam Comparison Test refers to the evaluation of compact and lightweight cameras specifically designed for outdoor use. These devices are indispensable for sports enthusiasts who want to capture exciting moments like skiing or climbing in photos and videos. In this article, we will introduce some sports cameras and provide the test results.
Are you enthusiastic about outdoor adventures? Do you want to capture moments and share photos with your friends? Then you definitely need a sports camera. Recently, we tested three popular action cams—GoPro Hero 12, DJI Osmo Action 4, and Insta360 X3—in terms of image quality, focusing, and compatibility. You can choose according to your needs.
Three action cams compared: Who is the all-rounder?
The core value of action cams lies in dynamic recording. In the test, we focused on the following cameras. Now let's take a look at the test results together.
GoPro Hero 12 - Small body with excellent performance
The GoPro Hero 12 is one of the most popular sports cameras on the market. With a 1/1.9-inch sensor, the GoPro Hero 12 has 27 megapixels and supports recording at 5.3K@60fps and 4K@120fps. The legendary HyperSmooth 6.0 technology combines electronic and optical stabilization, guaranteeing a stabilized and clear image even during fast movements like skiing and cycling races. Weighing only 153 grams, it is also perfect for use on helmets, gloves, or straps.
The disadvantages of the GoPro Hero 12 cannot be ignored either. The short focal length often leads to distortion during recording. And in low light, there is also a lot of noise and the image becomes blurry.
DJI Osmo Action 4 - Master of image stabilization
DJI Osmo Action 4 is a powerful sports camera. The heart of the Osmo Action 4 is the RockSteady image stabilization. Thanks to advanced technology, it is user-friendly and suitable for dynamic shots and adventures. With a 1/1.3-inch sensor and 48 megapixels, DJI Osmo Action 4 supports videos in 4K@120fps. The battery offers up to 180 minutes of continuous 4K recording, which is sufficient for most outdoor activities.
This camera also has some weaknesses. At 215 grams, it is a bit heavier, which can cause slight pressure points when worn for a long time, for example on helmets. And compared to other cameras, it is more expensive.
Insta360 X3 - 360° recording expert
The Insta360 X3 is also a popular sports camera, distinguished by its versatile shooting options and user-friendliness. Its biggest advantage is the ability to record 360° videos up to 6K@30fps, which is ideal for action scenes like skiing or climbing where the viewing angle can later be adjusted via software. And thanks to FlowState stabilization, images remain stable and smooth even during rapid movements.
But at 290 grams, it is heavier than many competitors, which makes it somewhat impractical on helmets or gloves. And in low light, noise often appears on the faces of subjects, which affects image quality.
How does the lens compensate for the weaknesses of sports cameras?
For correcting distortion on the GoPro Hero 12, a 35mm focal length is helpful. SIRUI Saturn significantly helps reduce edge distortion to under 5%. And with a smaller field of view, the face appears more natural. The large aperture of the SIRUI Saturn lens simultaneously ensures brighter and better image quality. Even in low light, such as in the evening, ISO noise is reduced to 1600.
In different scenarios, it is also recommended to use a lens with an appropriate focal length purposefully. For panoramas of sports events like ski tracks, a focal length like 35mm is suitable. And if you want to take portraits, such as close-ups of basketball players, a 50mm lens is ideal for that. For capturing the layering of skiers and snowy peaks and majestic landscapes during mountaineering, you should use a 75mm focal length.
Conclusion
The core of sports photography lies in preserving dynamics and conveying emotions. A suitable camera and an appropriate lens will make it easier. You can choose a sports camera according to your own needs and capture your exciting moments in sports with a matching lens.
