Best Action Camera Under $100 – Real Picks That Actually Work
Let’s be honest—everyone wants to capture cool moments these days, but not all of us can (or want to) drop $400 on a GoPro. That’s where the hunt for the best action camera under $100 begins. You want something affordable but still solid enough to handle your wild adventures, right?
Good news: I’ve done the digging so you don’t have to. Whether you're biking through the hills, recording your skate tricks, or just vlogging your weekend getaway—these budget action cams actually get the job done.
Why Choose an Action Camera Under $100?
Here’s the deal. Not everyone needs 8K video or crazy cinematic features. Sometimes, all you need is:
Decent 1080p or 4K recording
Good battery life
A little waterproofing
And most importantly, something that won’t break the bank
And let me tell you from experience—some of these so-called “cheap” action cameras actually surprise you in a good way.
🎥 Top Features to Look for in a Budget Action Camera
Before you click “Buy Now,” here are a few things to keep in mind when shopping under the $100 mark:
✅ 1. Video Quality
Look for at least 1080p at 30fps, though some models offer 4K at 30fps (yeah, under $100—it’s wild!).
✅ 2. Image Stabilization
Shaky footage can ruin your video. Go for cameras with EIS (Electronic Image Stabilization) if you plan on using it while moving.
✅ 3. Battery Life
Nobody wants to keep charging every 30 minutes. Look for cams with 60–90 mins of battery and preferably extra batteries in the box.
✅ 4. Waterproof Case
If you’re diving, swimming, or just accident-prone (like me), make sure it includes a waterproof housing—most budget cams do.
✅ 5. Mount Accessories
Most budget action cameras under $100 come with a bunch of mounts. Trust me, they’re lifesavers whether you're strapping it to a helmet or your dog.
🏆 Best Action Cameras Under $100 – My Top Picks
Here’s where it gets real. These are the action cams that actually work, all tested and loved by budget-focused adventurers.
🔹 1. AKASO EK7000 – Budget Beast With 4K
Why it’s awesome:
Let’s start with a classic. The AKASO EK7000 is hands-down one of the best action cameras under $100. It offers 4K recording at 25fps, comes with two batteries, and even throws in tons of accessories.
Video: 4K/25fps, 1080p/60fps
Waterproof: Up to 98 feet with case
Battery: Dual battery pack included
Bonus: Wireless wrist remote
Real Talk:
I took this one on a hiking trip in rainy weather. It handled mud, water, and even a small fall like a champ. For under 100 bucks? Totally worth it.
🔹 2. Dragon Touch Vision 3 – Budget Vlogger’s Dream
If you’re a content creator on a tight budget, this one’s a gem. It offers decent stabilization, 4K video, and comes with a remote control + accessories.
Video: 4K/30fps
Stabilization: Basic EIS
Battery: Around 90 minutes per charge
Screen: 2-inch LCD
My Thoughts:
The colors are decent, and the camera’s UI is super simple—even my cousin (who's terrible with tech) figured it out in 5 minutes.
🔹 3. Cooau Native 4K Action Camera – Hidden Gem
This one doesn’t get talked about as much, but it should. The Cooau 4K cam has excellent video for its price, and the WiFi feature is handy for quick sharing.
Video: 4K/30fps
Stabilization: 6-axis EIS
Waterproof: 131 feet with case
WiFi + App Support
Real Experience:
If you like uploading straight from your phone, the app integration here is smooth. Not perfect, but good enough for fast social sharing.
🔹 4. Vemont Action Camera – Super Cheap & Simple
Looking for the cheapest working action cam? This might be it. Don’t expect GoPro-level stuff, but for kids, casual users, or just to try out—this one is good.
Video: 1080p only
Waterproof: 98 feet
Battery: 60 mins
Mounts: Included
🔧 Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Budget Action Cam
Let’s say you’ve picked one—now what? Here’s how to squeeze out the best performance even from a $60 cam:
Use good lighting – These cams aren’t great in low light.
Try multiple mounts – Helmet, chest, wrist… each gives a new perspective.
Clean the lens regularly – A dirty lens = blurry footage.
Record in 1080p/60fps for smoother video (if 4K is laggy).
Always carry extra batteries – trust me, one is never enough.
🛒 Where to Buy Action Cameras Under $100?
Amazon – Best for quick delivery and return options
AliExpress – Super cheap options but slower shipping
Walmart/Target – Good return policy and warranty
Local gadget shops – Support small businesses!
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Are action cameras under $100 really worth it?
Yes! For casual users, beginners, vloggers, and even hobby adventurers—these cameras do more than enough.
Q. Can I use them for YouTube vlogging?
Absolutely. Many YouTubers started with budget cams. Just make sure to pair it with good lighting and audio.
Q. What accessories should I buy?
Extra batteries, SD cards, chest mount, head strap, floating grip (for water shots).
👋 Final Thoughts – Affordable Doesn’t Mean Bad
I get it. The internet is flooded with fancy specs and overpriced gear. But not everyone needs a $500 action camera to create cool content. If you’re on a budget or just starting out, these best action cameras under $100 give you exactly what you need—without burning a hole in your wallet.
Start small, explore more, and upgrade when you’re ready. For now, these cams will definitely have your back.
🧾 Conclusion – Let’s Keep It Simple
Look, not everyone’s ready to drop hundreds of dollars on a fancy camera—and honestly, you don’t have to. I’ve used a few of these action cameras under $100 myself, and they seriously get the job done. Yeah, maybe they don’t have the super polished features of a GoPro, but they shoot solid video, survive rough rides, and don’t make your wallet cry. If you’re just getting started, or you just want something decent for travel, biking, or even family trips—these are more than enough. Just pick the one that fits your vibe, charge it up, and hit record. You’ll be surprised how good “cheap” can actually look.