Action Cam, "sports" cameras, action cameras... Whatever the name, these small video cameras are enjoying undeniable success, pioneered by GoPro. Since then, however, competition has grown considerably, and many brands have adopted this format. Indeed, while these cameras have the advantage of compactness, they can also be shock-resistant or even totally waterproof. This makes them ideal for filming your sporting exploits or simply your vacations.
Definition and recording speed
Video quality, with the possibility or not of filming in Ultra HD / 4K or simple Full HD, and the different recording rates, are at the top of the list of criteria that must condition your choice. We advise you to avoid products filming at less than 24 frames per second, as jerks will be visible.
Today, we advise you to choose a product capable of filming in 4K, at a minimum of 30 frames per second, or in Full HD at 120 fps.
Which accessories?
Small and lightweight, these cameras are easy to use, and can be mounted almost anywhere and on any support, thanks to a wide range of accessories. The number of accessories is an important criterion for choice, as each practice has its own accessory.
If you're going to ride your bike on the road, you'll need an attachment system that's compatible with the terrain you'll be filming on. For example, for a road outing, a mount under the speedometer is perfect, as you can't see the handlebars or front wheel.
For mountain biking, you'll need to test this out, but a mount on the helmet may be preferable because of the jolts caused by the terrain.
For running, a stabilizer to which you can attach your camera is preferable for perfect stabilization.
What type of stabilization?
Most action cams rely on electronic image stabilization, sometimes backed up by optical stabilization as in the case of Sony, for example. However, we have noted that image processors and correction algorithms now offer high-performance stabilization.
In any case, remember that a good stabilization system is essential and that, as it's generally electronic stabilization, it requires real software know-how, as not all brands are equally efficient in this respect.
The new GoPro models, starting with the GoPro 8 Black and GoPro 9 Black, offer very interesting stabilization options. For running, if you have the GoPro 9 Black, you can try filming without an external stabilizer. However, with other cameras, it's better to have an additional stabilizer to smooth out any parasitic movements.
What kind of battery life?
Due to their compact format, action cams generally offer fairly short battery life. They tend to run for around an hour or so, depending on image quality.
In any case, make sure you have a removable battery so you can use a second one if necessary.
It is important, if not essential, to have several removable batteries if you wish to record journeys exceeding one hour. What's more, there are battery extensions you can add to your camera (see the example for the GoPro Hero Black 9, 10, 11 and 12 in this link: GoPro battery). You can then triple your recording time.