When looking for the best action camera under 100 $, you may not find renowned brands like GoPro and DJI. However, you can still find some excellent models that offer almost everything you can expect from a decent camera. There are many new and less renowned otherwise very good brands in the market that make cheap action cameras that offer great value for less money. In this article, we will review such valuable gems for you. We’ll talk about their Pros and Cons and also guide you in selecting the best sub-100 $ action camera that you’d love.
Top 10 Best cheap action cameras under 100 USD in 2023
These cheap budget action cameras offer 4K, WiFi connectivity, image stabilization, waterproofing, and a back screen for you to compose and review shots for instant feedback. They are outstanding for everything whether capturing adventure or creating content for YouTube and other social media. You can connect them to selfie sticks for taking selfies, mount them on your bike’s dashboard, attach them to the helmet, or tie them to a fishing rod for a fishing adventure. The best thing about owning the best cheap action camera is that, when you know that it hasn’t cost you a fortune, it won’t burden your heart when you strap it to the collar of your dog or to your kid’s skateboard to get some fun shots.
Best Action Camera Under 100 $ – Reviews
1. Campark V30 Native 4K
- Key Specifications:
- Resolution: 4K at 30 fps, 2K at 60 fps, and 1080p at 90 fps
- Megapixel: 20 MP
- Display: EIS touchscreen
- Sensor: Sony CMOS IMX 179 Image Sensor
- Image Stabilization: Yes
- Waterproofing: With a case up to 100 feet
- Battery life: 3 hours
The V30 Native is the updated model of Campark X25. This cheap 4K camera comes at a reasonable price that is right under your budget. It is one of the best action cameras under $100 that has some good features and much more to offer similar to the most expensive action cameras out there. It has 4 times zooming options to focus on your subject. It has a wide range of frames that includes 4K at 30 frames per second, 2K at 60 frames per second, and 1080p at 90 frames per second.
Within this price, the accessories kit includes a range of mounts with a helmet clip-on, a water-proof casing, and a set of two rechargeable batteries of 1350 mAh. Its waterproof case makes it resistant to water up to 100 feet of depth in water. The accessories that come with it are compatible with the GoPro action camera.
The Campark V30 Native has a touchscreen that can be tilted, making it easier to navigate the menu. Its image stabilization feature gives less blurry images of steady motions. The image stabilization feature is very nice and useful. You can capture still images at a resolution of 20 megapixels. Campark V30 Native has an adjustable lens and 4 different view angles that are 170 degrees, 140 degrees, 110 degrees, and 70 degrees which enables you to capture incredible shots. With the availability of an external mic, you can have a clearer and better audio feature.
2. Akaso V50x
- Key Specifications:
- Resolution: 4K at 30 fps, 2.7K at 30 fps, and 2K at 60 fps
- Megapixel: 20 MP
- Display: EIS touchscreen
- Image Stabilization: Yes
- Sensor: Sony IMX458 Image Sensor
- Waterproofing: With cases up to 40 meters
- Battery life: 180 minutes
Akaso V50x is another best Akaso Camera from the upgraded series of Akaso Cameras that has a video resolution of 4K at 30 frames per second, 2.7K at 30 frames per second, and 2K at 60 frames per second giving you high-quality results. It enables you to take impressive HD videos and perfectly clear pictures.
It comes with a touchscreen that makes it easy to operate the shooting modes. And it gets easier to capture the images by tapping on the touchscreen. Akaso V50x has an Electronic Image Stabilisation EIS that helps you record your steady actions smoothly without any blurring. It gives you a clear video recording with its stability feature.
This best action camera under 100 $ comes with two rechargeable batteries of 1350 mAh with a life of up to 3 hours. You can record videos for non-stop 180 minutes with a single charge. A 17 accessories kit comes with it that fits most action cameras including GoPro. It is waterproof up to 40 meters of depth underwater with a casing.
This Akaso Action Camera has an adjustable view angle so you can set your angle of view as you want. Its angles range between 170-degree, 140 degrees, 110 degrees, and 70 degrees. With its distortion calibration, you can correct the distortion in the image. This amazing action camera is available on Amazon, try it, and you will be satisfied with its features at this price.
3. Dragon Touch Vision 3
- Key Specifications:
- Resolution: 4K at 30fps, 2.7K at 30fps, 1080p at 60fps
- Megapixel: 16 MP
- Display: 2-inches touchscreen
- Image Stabilization: No
- Sensor: Sony sensor vision 3
- Waterproofing: With a case up to 30 meters
- Battery life: 90 minutes
Dragon Touch Vision 3 Action Camera comes with a PC Webcam, and a Wi-Fi sports Cam with a remote is a great package of all time. It has a mounting accessories kit and two 1050 mAh rechargeable batteries with long battery life so you can record without any fear of low battery life. It has a wide angle of 170 degrees enabling you to cover a wide viewing angle and give amazing shots. Dragon Touch Vision 3 has a zooming range of 1 time to 2 times zooming power for more focus on your subject. It has a high-resolution lens of 4K at 30 frames per second, 2.7K at 30 frames per second, and 1080p at 60 frames per second. This best action camera under 100 $ gives you professional stills with its 16-megapixel resolution.
With the Wi-Fi connectivity feature, you can connect the Dragon Touch Vision 3 with your mobile phones and tablets with the XDV application and share your videos and pictures with your smartphones. It has a 2-inch screen, and the Wi-Fi signals range up to 33 feet. Dragon Touch Vision 3 can be mounted on your helmet, and you can wear its remote on your wrist so you can conveniently record your rides and adventures. Still, the remote doesn’t come with any water protective coverings, which means you cannot use the remote underwater.
In a water-proof case, you can dive below 30 meters in water and record the underwater moments. The water protective case helps you record underwater sports such as diving, surfing, swimming, etc. Its versatility and unique features give you a range of shooting modes, including image rotation, driving mode, time-lapse recording, loop recording, slow-motion recording, drama shot mode, white balance, and exposure. At such a low price, this best camera under $100 is beyond expectations. And if you are looking for a GroPro alternative at a cheap price under 100 $, then this cam is the way to go.
4. EKEN H9R Action Camera
- Key Specifications:
- Resolution: 4K at 30fps, 2.7K at 30fps, 1080p at 60fps and 720p at 120fps
- Megapixel: 12 MP
- Display: 2-inches LCD screen
- Image Stabilization: No
- Sensor: OmniVision OV4689
- Waterproofing: With cases up to 100 feet
- Battery life: 70 minutes
EKEN H9R is a 4K action camera delivering clear and highly detailed footage. It has a 12-megapixel still resolution that gives clarity to the images you capture. With Wi-Fi connectivity, it ensures the availability of a live streaming function on Apple iOS so you can share your all fun activities and adventures on social media. The built-in Wi-Fi and HDMI output help you share your recordings on your smartphones with the EZ iCAM application. Thus you can share and edit your pictures with great ease and preview them on your TV by connecting them to an HDMI cable. The Wi-Fi signals range up to 33 feet.
EKEN H9R has a waterproof case that is designed to resist extreme weather conditions. With waterproof housing, you can record up to 100 feet underwater. This best action camera under 100 dollars is wearable with its mounting accessories and can be mounted on anything that enables you to capture your adventures like diving, swimming, surfing, biking, driving, etc.
It comes with a 2-inch LED FHD display which is a high-quality display for your pictures and video preview. You can get the full features with its easy setting controls and enjoy recording using different features. Its accessories kit includes an action camera tripod, a remote control, two rechargeable 1050 mAh batteries, 14 action camera accessories, and mounts that are compatible with most action cameras including GoPros. EKEN H9R action camera offers you a range of amazing features at such a reasonable price.
5. Akaso Brave 6 4K
- Key Specifications:
- Resolution: 4K/24fps, 2k/30fps and 1080/60fps
- Megapixel: 20 MP
- Display: 2 Inches touch
- Image Stabilization: Yes
- Sensor: Panasonic sensor
- Waterproofing: With a case up to 30 meters
- Battery life: 60 mins
Akaso Brave 6 is a worthy upgrade to a highly successful Akaso Brave series after Akaso Brave 4. This Akaso camera features a 20 MP Panasonic sensor, that allows crisp clear videos at a resolution of 4K/24fps, 2K/30fps, and 1080/60fps and can capture 20MP photos with the ease you can imagine.
Moreover, it also allows you to capture unique time-lapse videos that can be a delight to share. Above that, it comes with a built-in Electronic Image Stabilization feature (EIS) with a 3-axis gyroscope to make your video stable even when your camera isn’t. And with its 6X zoom option, you can focus on your subjects 6 times more when they are farther away.
We said you can capture photos with the ease you can imagine, and that is because it offers a voice control feature. Now you can control your camera hands-free and with simple voice commands like ‘Akaso video start’ and ‘ Akaso take the photo’ you can capture videos and photos as you wish and when you wish to. Moreover, the camera offers you optional viewing angles and you can easily set them between 170°, 140°, 110°, and 70° according to your needs.
If you are interested in water sports like swimming, surfing, snorkeling, diving, etc, then this best action camera under $100 is definitely going to be your delight as it can go up to 98 feet/30m underwater with you and will give you stunning videos and stills underwater. And with its built-in WiFi, you can easily connect to your smartphone and laptop to share your adventure later on.
The camera kit is rich and also includes wireless control which helps you to control your camera while self-recording during hiking and cycling etc. It also includes a charger and 2 rechargeable batteries, that can last 40 mins each. Moreover, its kit is compatible with most cameras including GoPro.
6. Neewer G1 Ultra HD 4K Action Camera
- Key Specifications:
- Resolution: 4K at 25fps
- Megapixel: 12 MP
- Display: 2-inches LCD screen
- Image Stabilization: No
- Sensor: High-tech sensor
- Waterproofing: With cases up to 98 feet
- Battery life: 90 minutes
Neewer G1 Ultra HD Action Camera delivers an amazing high-quality result as compared to other best action cameras under 100 $. It uses a high-tech sensor with a 12-megapixel resolution that gives you outstanding-quality pictures and videos. It records at a resolution of 4K at 25 frames per second.
Neewer G1 can be used in different ways with its range of features. It can be used as a dash cam in your cars, as a security camera for security purposes, and as an action, camera to capture your adventures. So it provides you with great flexibility with its multiple modes. You can choose from time-lapse recording, continuous shooting, driving mode, and image rotation functions.
The camera has a compact and handy design with a rugged outer design that supports a fixed grip, therefore, it is easy to carry. Precise and high resolution provide you with quality footage. It, however, lacks some advanced features like image stabilization and GPS function. But don’t forget you get it for under 50 $ only. It offers an affordable price and beats other action cameras in its price range. With a battery life of 90 minutes, you would not miss a shot. It is one of the cheapest action cameras in our list of the best action cameras under 100 $ and the best action camera for beginners as well as offers a lot more, even for professional users.
7. RUNME R2 Sports Action Camera
- Key Specifications:
- Resolution: 4K at 25fps, 2.7K at 30fps, 1080p at 60 fps and 1080p at 30fps
- Megapixel: 12 MP
- Display: 2-inches screen
- Image Stabilization: No
- Sensor: OV4689 image sensor
- Waterproofing: With cases up to 30 meters
- Battery life: 90 Minutes
RUNME R2 Sports Action Camera captures images with its impressive OV4689 image sensor. It has a recording resolution of 4K at 25 frames per second, 2.7K at 30 frames per second, 1080p at 30 frames per second, and 1080p at 60 frames per second. It is the best action camera under $100 that captures stills with its 12-megapixel amazing lens.
RUNME R2 sports action camera has Wi-Fi and HDMI connectivity. The Wi-Fi connectivity signals have a range of 10 meters and it allows you to use the camera with remote control. You can just turn the Wi-Fi on and use the remote control to record things at a distance. With this feature, you can share your pictures and videos on your smartphones and tablets through the iSmart DV application on Google Play or the App Store. Thus you can easily edit and share your recordings.
With one rechargeable battery of 1050 mAh, it supports a battery life of 90 minutes. Therefore you can record for 90 minutes and become worry-free about missing any of your shots. It has a waterproof casing in its accessories kit which allows you to record your underwater adventures. The waterproof case enables you to use your action camera up to 30 meters in depth.
RUNME R2 sports action camera has a great package and much more to offer. With this action camera, control and framing have become more convenient. With all this, this best action camera under 100 dollars is a blessing for those who don’t have a lot to spend.
8. Muson MC2 Action Camera 4K
- Key Specifications:
- Resolution: 4K at 24fps
- Megapixel: 16 MP
- Display: 2-inches screen
- Image Stabilization: Yes
- Sensor: CMOS sensor
- Waterproofing: With a case 30 meters
- Battery life: 90 minutes
The Muson MC2 action camera is another best action camera under 100 $ that you can get. It has impressive Ultra HD technology and allows you can enjoy high-resolution 4K images. Equipped with a highly sensitive CMOS sensor, enables you to capture high-resolution images at night. A clear and wide 2-inch LCD lets you have live images. The wide-angle lens of 170 degrees lets you capture a wider viewing angle.
It has Wi-Fi connectivity that connects you with your smartphones, allows you to monitor your photos and videos live on your smartphones, and enables you to set features and change recording modes. The wearable remote control helps you control the camera, and you can record sitting away from your camera. This works within Muson MC2 wi-fi range of up to 10 meters.
Muson MC2 has a range of shooting modes including time-lapse recording, single shots, and burst shooting, and is a great choice for indoor and outdoor activities. It has waterproof housing that makes it waterproof up to 30 meters underwater depth. With this underwater action camera, you can have the perfect shots for your extreme water sports like diving, surfing, skiing, boating, and other adventures. Comes in a delicate and compact design, and it is easier to carry.
The mounting accessories allow you to mount them on bikes, cars, helmets, and other places. You can even simply use it as a dash cam for your car and record your ride by using loop recording and screen rotation. This best action camera under $100 comes with shockproof stability so you can take your action pictures smoothly. Muson MC2 accessories kit includes two rechargeable batteries of 1050 mAh, a waterproof case, mounts, a camera clip, a remote control, etc. Available at a low price it offers you a range of great features that you must try.
9. ION 1014W Air Pro
- Key Specifications:
- Resolution: 1080p and 720p
- Megapixel: 14 MP
- Display: 2-inches LCD screen
- Image Stabilization: Yes
- Sensor: CMOS sensor
- Waterproofing: With cases up to 10 meters
- Battery life: 5 hours
For those who want to record their extreme sports with high quality and less blurring effect, ION 1011I Air Pro Lite Action Camera is now becoming the top priority among the best action cameras under 100 dollars. Its extremely high quality and incredible features give you amazing results. With its 170-degree viewing angle, it is one of the 1080p action cameras. You can take wide shots with a resolution of 1080p and 720p and in high-quality audio. It has an outstanding 14-megapixel lens which enables you to take incredibly perfect shots of your subject. This megapixel quality is for still images, time-lapse recording, and burst shot mode.
It is waterproof and can be brought underwater up to a depth of 10 meters so you can record your underwater adventures. It is very durable for other different action shots as well. It comes with a rechargeable battery and supports a battery life of 5 hours. So you can never think of missing any shot. It supports a micro SD card with a minimum of class 6 to a maximum is class 10.
The built-in Wi-Fi connectivity allows you to share your recordings with your smartphones and easily edit them. It has a complete set of mounting accessories in its accessories kit which helps you mount it on anything and even record at places you cannot reach. For those who want to buy the best action camera under 100 $ with outstanding features, the ION 1014 Air Pro Lite is the one you are looking for.
10. Vivitar DVR783HD
- Key Specifications:
- Resolution: 1080p at 30 frames per second
- Megapixel: 5 MP
- Display: 1.8-inches LCD screen
- Image Stabilization: No
- Sensor: CMOS sensor
- Waterproofing: With a case up to 30 feet
- Battery life: 45 minutes
Finally, the last best action camera under 100 $ that we would want you to consider is Vivitar’s DVR 786 HD action camera. It is the most versatile action camera with a range of features. It allows you to record amazing footage the way you want. Designed in a way, it gives a traditional look. The compact design and lightweight make movement easier, and you can record beautiful moments with its high performance. It has full 1080p HD video quality with a wide touchscreen display.
You get a collection of accessories with this Vivitar action camera including a mounting case so you can mount your action camera on your bike or on your helmet to record your rides and adventures. It is also the best action camera for motorcycles. Its awesome waterproof case allows you to film underwater easily. With a waterproof case, you can record underwater up to 30 feet of depth to cover underwater adventures. This Vivitar action sports camcorder comes with a remote control, so you can control it at a distance. From surfing to going on trails, snowboarding, and diving, you can document all your adventures without missing any. With just a touch it enables you to record the video and capture your desired footage without any fumbling with the camera. So you can conserve your storage, and it saves time for your editing process.
The full HD 1080p at 30 frames per second allows you to capture the most exciting moments clearly. Its 2-inch wide touch screen gives you an instant preview. The Vivitar action sports camcorder supports a higher micro SD card or class 4 for storage options and provides you with as much storage capacity as you want. The accessories kit includes a bike and helmet mount so you can enjoy your free hand recording. This best camera under 100 $ comes in a great price deal with these features, so you really need to give it a try.
Buyers Guide: Things to consider when buying the best action camera under 100 $
When buying the best action camera under 100 $, here are some things to consider:
Video quality
Look for cameras with at least 1080p resolution, but if possible, consider a camera with 4K resolution.
Image stabilization
Check if the camera has image stabilization, which can help to stabilize the footage and avoid shakiness.
Durability
Consider cameras that are waterproof or at least water-resistant, as well as shockproof or ruggedized for outdoor use.
Battery life
Check the battery life and consider how long it will last when you’re filming in the field.
Touch Screen
A touch screen is very helpful in operating your action camera and previewing your footage, therefore, its better to choose the model that has one.
Storage
Make sure the camera has enough storage space, either internal or via an external memory card.
Mounting options
Look for cameras that come with various mounting options so that you can attach the camera to helmets, bikes, or other surfaces.
Connectivity
Consider cameras with Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity, as this can make it easier to transfer files and control the camera remotely.
Overall, these are the main things to consider when buying an action camera for under 100$. By keeping these factors in mind, you can find a camera that will suit your needs and fit your budget.
FAQs about best action cameras under 100 $
Are cheap action cameras worth it?
If you’re looking for an affordable way to capture footage during outdoor activities such as biking, hiking, surfing, or skiing, then the best cheap action camera under 100 $ can be a great option. Many cheap action cameras offer decent image and video quality, and some even come with features like waterproofing, Wi-Fi connectivity, and image stabilization. But if you’re looking for top-of-the-line performance and features, you may need to spend more money on a higher-end model.
What are the benefits of buying the best action camera for under 100 $?
Buying the best affordable action camera under 100 $ is a cost-effective option compared to more expensive models. This makes them an accessible option for casual users and beginners. Furthermore, these cheap action cameras can offer decent image and video quality with features like 1080p or 4K recording capabilities, image stabilization, a wide-angle lens as well as waterproof and shockproof features, which make them ideal for outdoor use in challenging environments.
Can I get a cheap GoPro for under 100 $?
No, the GoPro cameras are expensive and hard to find at cheap prices. The cheapest of GoPros, the GoPro Hero 7 costs around 180 $.
Why is a cheap action camera better than a cell phone camera?
Cell phone cameras have come a long way in image quality in the past few years, however, action cameras still have an edge when it comes to capturing adventure. Action cameras are more rugged and waterproof than most cell phones and most importantly come with better mounting gear.
Is it worth buying a second-hand action camera instead of spending money on a new one?
It can be worth buying a second-hand action camera, depending on the condition of the camera and the price compared to a new one. However, there are some potential risks to buying a second-hand camera. The camera may have hidden issues that are not immediately apparent, such as wear and tear on the lens, water damage, or other malfunctions. Additionally, the camera may not come with a warranty, so if something goes wrong with the camera after you purchase it, you may not have any recourse.
Overall, if you are comfortable with the risks and can find a camera that is in good condition at a significantly reduced price compared to a new one, then buying a second-hand action camera can be a good option. However, if you need the peace of mind of a warranty or want the latest features, then a new camera may be a better choice.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a camera that will help you capture your adventures, or just video your everyday life, a cheap action camera can be a great investment. Our list of the best action cameras under 100 $ includes some of the most popular models on the market today. You can pick anyone according to your preferences and feel free to ask us in our comments section if you have any queries.
How we tested and reviewed the best action cameras under 100 $
We spend hours on the internet, reading expert blogs and user reviews to locate the best action cameras that are available for under 100 $. After thorough analysis and comparisons, we selected 16 action cameras that were highly rated by both the experts and users. We then tested these action cameras over the course of a few months for important features like image resolution, image stabilization, waterproofing, and back screen quality. Finally, based on our test findings we ranked these action cameras and arranged them into our list of the top 10 best action cameras under 100 $.
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