Discover the best 2025 action cameras: GoPro Hero 13, DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro, Insta360 Ace Pro 2 and X5, plus GoPro Lit Hero. Specs, pros and cons. Use cases.
© GoPro
In recent years, a wave of action cameras with advanced features has hit the market. The Pepelats News editorial team picked five current models, each with its own tricks and ideal use cases. Only fresh releases made the cut—no outdated or discontinued gear.
GoPro Hero 13 Black is the brand’s flagship action camera with support for interchangeable lenses. It remains the benchmark: video recording up to 5.3K at 60 fps, slow motion at 4K/120 fps and even ultra slow motion at 2.7K/240 fps. A 27 MP sensor delivers crisp photo and video with 10‑bit color and wide dynamic range. GoPro’s electronic HyperSmooth stabilization has been refined and still ranks among the best—footage stays steady even when things get rough. The camera is waterproof down to 10 meters without a housing and has a removable protective lens. Battery life got a bump—about 75 minutes of continuous recording in 5.3K/60 (up to roughly 1.5 hours at 5.3K/30), and with lower quality or special settings you can stretch a charge to about three hours.
One of Hero 13’s headline features is the new swappable optics. GoPro introduced the HB‑Series of lenses that the camera recognizes automatically and adapts to. Beyond the standard glass, there’s an Ultra Wide module (177° FOV) and a macro lens for tight close‑ups. A set of four ND filters mounts in place of the lens and auto‑corrects exposure—great for cinematic motion blur. Previous add‑ons remain compatible: Media Mod (a frame with mics and ports) for external audio, Light Mod, the Max Lens mount, plus dozens of mounts for helmets, chest rigs, handlebars, and more.
Top‑tier 5.3K60 video with rich detail and color.
Versatility: huge ecosystem of mounts and add‑ons; now with interchangeable lenses and filters for creative looks.
Durability and protection: rugged build, 10 m waterproofing, time‑tested impact resistance—ready for any trip.
HyperSmooth stabilization keeps footage silky despite bumps and sudden moves.
Better battery life: the Enduro cell adds roughly 13% recording time over the previous model.
Flagship pricing is high, and lens modules or the media frame cost extra.
Low‑light video trails some rivals—Hero 13 shows visible noise in dim scenes.
The upgrade is evolutionary rather than radical. Still, the many small refinements add up to the most polished GoPro to date.
Hero 13 Black is a true all‑rounder. It’s game for everything from snowboarding and surfing to moto tours and vlogging. You get GoPro’s proven reliability and best‑in‑class footage in virtually any condition. The sturdy mounts and waterproofing make it a go‑to for mountain treks, shallow dives, or bike rides. The new Ultra Wide lens helps capture sweeping vistas—or fit the whole crew into a party shot without stepping back.
DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro is GoPro’s direct rival with a focus on endurance and harsh environments. Its ace is battery life: it records up to two hours of 4K video on a single charge, roughly twice the Hero 13. Recording tops out at 4K (up to 4K/120), but there’s now 4K in 4:3 and full‑frame 120 fps slow motion—very handy for action shots. The 1/1.3" sensor excels after dark: the new SuperNight mode aggressively combats noise and allows bright footage up to 4K/30 in low light. Night scenes look cleaner than on GoPro and close to Ace Pro 2. Another highlight is built‑in subject tracking that keeps a selected target centered for easier capture of moving subjects. Stabilization is handled by DJI’s RockSteady, with HorizonSteady to lock the horizon. Action 5 Pro is also smaller and lighter than a GoPro, making helmet or handlebar mounting a bit easier. DJI says the camera tolerates wider temperature swings, shrugging off cold and heat better than many competitors. For the adventurous, there’s 20 m waterproofing without a housing, and a 60 m dive case for deeper excursions.
DJI kept its magnetic quick‑release mount system, compatible with previous Osmo Action accessories. In the box you’ll find a few basics (flat and curved adhesive mounts, a frame holder). For audio, DJI’s wireless Mic 2 and compact Mic Mini pair seamlessly with Action 5 Pro and deliver far better sound than the internal mic. You can also pick up ND/PL filter kits, a floating hand grip for water work, and more. For serious diving, a 60 m case offers added depth and protection.
Excellent battery life—up to 120 minutes of continuous 4K recording—so you can forget about frequent charging on long rides or sessions.
Strong low‑light image quality: the large sensor and night mode keep noise down for evening shoots.
Built to take it: 20 m waterproof without a case, resistant to dust, mud, and vibration. Wider operating temps suit ski trips or desert safaris.
Audio and vlogging: with DJI Mic attached, it becomes a capable vlogging rig—audio quality often outshines GoPro, even with an external mic. The front screen helps with framing yourself.
Compact and easy to mount: slightly smaller and lighter than a GoPro. Magnetic mounting speeds up setup on metal surfaces.
Max resolution is limited to 4K—no 5K or 8K. For most users, that’s perfectly fine, though pixel‑peepers may miss the headroom.
Default color rendering is less saturated than GoPro’s out of the box (easily fixed with grading).
Accessory ecosystem isn’t as vast as GoPro’s—no modular lens system, for instance—though the essentials are covered.
A bit less flexible in settings: you won’t find GoPro Labs‑style advanced modes or modding—DJI leans into a “power on and shoot” experience.
DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro is ideal when you value long runtimes and reliability in tough conditions. For motocross or enduro, where battery swaps are rare, it’s a find. In diving and surfing, it feels right at home: you can go deeper without a housing, and at night SuperNight helps pull detail from dusk. Travelers who shoot all day will appreciate the endurance—it can cover a packed itinerary from a volcano hike to a night market without a recharge.
Insta360 Ace Pro 2 is the first action camera with a flip‑up screen for effortless selfie framing. It pairs 8K video with a creator‑friendly design. The large 1/1.3" sensor co‑engineered with Leica records up to 8K/30. In fast action, 8K can show rolling‑shutter wobble or artifacts, but it shines for cropping—pull pristine 4K frames out of a single 8K master. There’s also 4K/120 for buttery slow motion. The star of the show, though, is the flip screen: a large rear display that tilts up to face you, making solo vlogging much easier than peering at tiny front panels on GoPro or DJI. It also helps when shooting from awkward angles—drop the camera low and tilt the screen up to keep your framing.
Image quality matches DJI Action 5—they share the same sensor—while Insta360 adds full 8K capture. Footage is sharp with surprisingly solid low‑light performance, and night scenes look cleaner than GoPro’s. Despite the shared hardware, color science differs by brand; Ace Pro 2 skews a touch more contrasty and saturated by default. Stabilization keeps pace with other top‑tier cams. Audio impresses, too: the built‑in mic records loud and clear, enough for casual use without a separate recorder. If needed, you can plug USB microphones directly into the camera via USB‑C—rare among action cams. Battery life is robust: expect well over an hour of active 4K shooting per charge, and a full day of intermittent clips with moderate use. The camera also supports a sturdy magnetic mount system for quick attachment to branded clips, clamps, and plates.
Insta360 is building out an accessory ecosystem for Ace Pro 2: magnetic clip mounts, chest harnesses, helmet adapters, a compact tabletop tripod/handle, and a remote shutter. Crucially, Ace Pro 2 supports UAC for external USB‑C mics, so most microphones can connect via an adapter, or you can use Insta360’s wireless mic. ND filter sets and a waterproof housing are also available.
8K video—class‑leading detail for action cams. Useful for pros who want maximum quality or post‑crop flexibility.
Flip screen—perfect for filming yourself and creative angles. A natural fit for vloggers and solo shooters.
Large 1/1.3" Leica‑co‑engineered sensor delivers excellent results, especially at dusk. Saturated, punchy colors out of camera, with an optional log profile for grading.
Audio and pro tools: arguably the best built‑in mic among action cams; log recording and direct USB mic support. High video bitrates, though 8K is limited to 8‑bit color.
Solid battery life and a fast, reliable magnetic mounting system.
8K/30 is still finicky for very dynamic scenes—artifacts can appear at high speeds. Files are huge and demand a powerful edit machine.
No 10‑bit recording—8‑bit max. Most won’t notice, but advanced colorists may miss the extra latitude (GoPro offers 10‑bit).
Default colors can be overly saturated—plan on tweaking profiles or grading for a natural look.
Price is fairly high (around $420) with fewer third‑party accessories than GoPro. It’s also less water‑ready out of the box—consider a housing for serious diving.
Size and weight are a bit higher than Hero 13 and DJI—fine in most cases, but not ideal for very small drones.
Insta360 Ace Pro 2 resonates with creators who film themselves and their surroundings. It’s a strong choice for travel vloggers and field reporters—the flip screen and quality audio streamline solo production. Tech‑inclined users also appreciate the 8K option for detailed masters that allow clean 4K crops later. Think of capturing a mountain panorama in 8K and cutting multiple punch‑ins without quality loss. The large sensor and PureVideo mode also make it a capable tool for night city timelapses. In short, it’s for those willing to put in a bit more effort in post to get standout results.
Insta360 X5 is the latest in the 360‑degree action class, with two ultra‑wide lenses capturing every direction at once. The new X5 becomes Insta360’s 2025 flagship, replacing the X4. The major upgrade is 8K recording at 30 fps—stunningly crisp for VR platforms like YouTube VR. It also supports 5.7K/60 and 4K/120 for smoother slow motion or smaller file sizes.
Dual 1/1.28" sensors and three AI co‑processors boost overall image quality, especially after dark. PureVideo mode brings intelligent noise reduction and expanded dynamic range right at capture, similar to the Ace Pro 2 but tailored to 360 video. Night panoramas—city streets or outdoor parties—come out cleaner and brighter. Another big leap is replaceable lenses: with older 360 cams a scratch could be a disaster, but the X5’s modular system lets you swap a damaged lens element. The glass itself is extra tough to resist the knocks of action. The camera also builds in wind protection for its microphones—foam wind filters tame velocity noise, so your voice cuts through better at speed.
Despite the sophisticated internals, the X5 is rugged and long‑lasting. It’s Insta360’s toughest 360 camera yet, waterproof to 15 meters without a case—enough for snorkeling or a waterfall shoot. A new 2,000 mAh battery delivers up to three hours of operation (about 185 minutes of 5.7K recording in Endurance mode), a major step up over its predecessor. Even at max quality, recording time improves by roughly 15–20%.
The X5 supports a wide range of creative add‑ons. The hallmark is the “invisible” selfie stick—Insta360 sells telescoping sticks of various lengths that vanish in the stitch. There’s also the Bullet‑Time handle for dramatic spin shots with slow‑mo “Matrix” vibes. Because X5 is a bit larger and heavier than earlier models, Insta360 released reinforced mounts, like a robust motorcycle handlebar clamp and a surfboard pole. Divers get a special housing rated to 60 m that also minimizes water distortion at the lens seam. You can buy spare lenses and protective caps—highly recommended to prevent scratches on the road. The package includes a soft carry pouch and a base compatible with standard GoPro‑style mounts.
True 360° capture: record everything at once and pick any angle later—or publish interactive VR.
High 8K resolution makes panoramas sharper and more lifelike. HDR is improved, with active HDR working up to 5.7K/60 for more balanced contrast.
Class‑leading night performance: larger sensors, PureVideo, and new algorithms deliver strong results at dusk and night—one of the few 360 cams that can handle starry skies or candle‑lit parties.
Exceptional toughness and serviceability: modular, replaceable lenses are a huge plus. Built‑in wind protection improves audio at speed.
Long runtimes: up to three hours on a single battery in a gentle mode—remarkable for a 360 camera. Even typical shooting covers, say, a full summit push without a battery swap.
Software and workflow: the Insta360 app is more streamlined than before, with InstaFrame saving two files at once—a flat edit with your chosen angle and the full 360—for faster turnaround on social platforms.
Editing complexity: 360 footage needs processing—expect to learn Insta360’s tools or plugins for Premiere. It’s a steeper curve than cutting standard clips.
Price and size: around $550 and bulkier than most “flat” action cams, so it’s less of a pocket‑everyday option.
8K at 30 fps only: you’ll drop to 5.7K for 60 fps. That’s still solid, though 8K/60 remains a wish for the future.
Stitching quirks: in poor light or at the wrong subject distance, the stitch line can show. Placement matters—avoid putting faces too close—and many shots benefit from a selfie stick, which adds a prep step.
Insta360 X5 is for those who want to capture everything, everywhere. It’s ideal for travelers and adrenaline seekers who want to relive moments from any angle. Moto vloggers mount it on helmets for both POV and wide road views at once. Skiers and snowboarders love the “drone‑like” effect with an invisible stick as the X5 seems to orbit the rider. At festivals, it records the crowd, the stage, and your own reactions in one take. It’s increasingly useful commercially, too—from real‑estate virtual tours to amusement‑ride coverage—where panoramic reach and high detail matter. If you’re ready to invest time in creative edits, the X5 opens genuinely boundless perspectives.
GoPro Lit Hero is an unusual new entry from GoPro, replacing the simplified Hero (2024). It stands out with an integrated LED array and an ultra‑compact footprint. The body is similar in size to the Hero 13 Black, but the internals are pared back: a 12 MP sensor means 12 MP photos. Video capability got a welcome upgrade—now you can record 4K/60 (the previous base model topped out at 4K/30). There’s also 4:3 capture and support for H.265 or H.264. Stabilization is software‑only: the camera doesn’t stabilize in real time and relies on the GoPro Quik app for post‑processing. The trade‑off helps keep the device small and power‑efficient, and Quik can apply HyperSmooth later for stable results.
The star feature is the LED lighting. Four bright diodes sit around the lens and illuminate subjects up to several meters away—ideal for night vlogs or pitch‑black scenes. Clip the Lit Hero to your chest for a nighttime walk—the built‑in light brightens your path and your face. GoPro even includes a diffuser in the box for softer fill without harsh shadows at close range. Waterproofing is rated to 5 meters without a housing, so keep it to shallow water or a pool. The camera is featherweight at 93 g and works with more than 35 GoPro mounts. Battery life lands around 100 minutes of 4K capture with the light off—quite decent for something this small. Continuous lighting will drain it faster, of course.
Lit Hero supports nearly all standard GoPro mounts—from clips to chest straps. Its shared dimensions with Hero 13 Black mean many frames and cases fit, too. GoPro positions Lit as a “grab‑and‑go shoot anything” camera and offers bundles such as the Lit Hero Adventure Kit (camera + head mount + clip + mini tripod). Since the LED is a defining feature, a diffuser comes in the box and spares are available. There’s also a standard USB‑C mic adapter for external audio, though the built‑in mic will suffice for most clips. Extras include a floating hand grip and protective pouches. You can even use Media Mod for better audio and I/O—helpful despite the lack of a front screen—thanks to the similar body size.
Built‑in LED light—rare for an action cam—enables true low‑light capture and flattering night vlogging. With the diffuser, it’s gentle enough for arm’s‑length portraits.
Compact and light: small, flat, and easy to carry anywhere—an everyday camera you’ll actually bring.
Simple to use: streamlined menus and fewer modes make it easy for beginners. It’s a “power up and shoot” GoPro.
Affordable at $269—far cheaper than flagships. In good light, 4K video quality is surprisingly close to pricier models.
Plays well with the GoPro ecosystem: loads of compatible mounts and accessories. It also excels as a secondary camera alongside a Hero 13 Black for alternate angles.
Small 12 MP sensor limits detail and dynamic range. In tough light (night or extreme contrast), quality lags behind flagships. The LED helps only at short range; distant subjects will still show noise.
No in‑camera stabilization—you’ll need to run clips through the Quik app. Raw footage can look shaky, so it’s best for calmer shooting or when post is planned.
Modest water protection: 5 m without a housing isn’t enough for real diving. The USB‑C port is exposed, so be careful around water.
No front screen—self‑framing is trickier (the light does hint at where the lens is pointed).
Feature set is basic: no Protune, LiveBurst, GPS, and the like. Power users may want more control.
GoPro Lit Hero is built as a budget‑friendly, everyday action cam. It shines for spontaneous moments where a bigger rig gets in the way. Night vlogging is its sweet spot: the onboard light flatters faces while strolling dim streets or sitting by a campfire. Travelers can run it as a second cam on a backpack or cap for easy POV while the main GoPro handles wides. Extreme‑sports creators will appreciate it as a lightweight option on small drones or RC planes. For family clips, it’s a worry‑free pick—tough and simple, and the built‑in “flashlight” is a crowd‑pleaser for kids.
Today’s action cameras cover every angle: maxed‑out detail, night shooting, immersive panoramas, or ultra‑portability—there’s a fit for every goal. If you want the most universal option, GoPro Hero 13 Black is the safe bet. For long adventures and diving, DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro earns the nod with its battery and resilience. Vloggers and tinkerers will gravitate to Insta360 Ace Pro 2 for its 8K and flip screen. For 360° creativity, Insta360 X5 opens new worlds. And for newcomers or budget‑minded explorers, the compact GoPro Lit Hero delivers with its simplicity and built‑in light. Decide what matters most—and head out to capture brighter, bolder stories.