An action camera can capture life’s most exhilarating moments. Whether you need one to strap to your head before leaping into the void on your next bungee jump, or you want something waterproof so you can video the kids in the pool, there’s a good option for you. And Prime Day is the perfect opportunity to score a deal on some new camera gear. Below, I’ve rounded up the best action camera deals you can get right now.
The Best 360 Camera Deal
By far the best camera deal this Prime Day is GoPro's Max 2 360 camera, which is currently 40 percent off. The GoPro Max 2 (7/10 WIRED Recommends) is my favorite 360 camera. The dual 14-mm lenses of the Max 2 each record up to a 1/2.3-inch chip, yielding what GoPro calls “True 8K” (10-bit) video. The larger sensors of the Max 2 provide sharper, clearer footage than other 360 cameras, and you can record 10-bit color in log for greater flexibility in post-production colour grading—a capability you’d be hard-pressed to find in other 360 cameras.
The one flaw in the Max 2 is its lacklustre audio quality. The best way to avoid that issue is to pair the camera with a Bluetooth mic. Also note that if low-light video is on your list of must-haves in an action camera, the Insta360 X5 (below) is probably a better bet.
The Best Action Camera for Vlogging
The Insta360 Ace Pro 2 (8/10 WIRED Recommends) combines a great Leica lens with an 8K-capable sensor and a handy flip-up rear screen, which is why it's my favorite action camera for vlogging. The standout feature, though, is the rear screen. Other action cameras offer a small front screen to compose selfies, but the Ace Pro 2's entire huge rear screen is there to help you frame yourself. The video quality of the Ace Pro 2 is excellent, especially the low-light performance.
The Best Budget Action Camera for Even Less
The wee little Lit Hero is GoPro’s smallest, lightest, cheapest action camera. It's my favorite GoPro for selfies thanks to the included light. The cluster of four LEDs next to the lens ensures this camera keeps you well-lit in every scene.
