Rating of the best cameras for travel and outdoor activities for 2024

Everyone loves to relax. Every person experiencing funny, fascinating and interesting moments in life wants to capture them, because after that you can look at a photo or video and this or that moment of life will pop up in your memories. This can be done using special cameras and cameras made directly for outdoor activities.

How are they different from other similar devices?

Recently it has become popular to call this kind of cameras "action cameras". They are specially designed to shoot high-quality images and videos even in bad weather: in strong winds or rain. Also, the difference between cameras for outdoor activities is that they:

• equipped with stronger protection against moisture and a sturdier case, so that in the event of a sudden drop into water, on stones or in case of pressure drops, nothing happens to the device;
• have a special attachment on the head, belt or arm, so as not to interfere with holding other, more necessary items;
• focused on panoramic shooting in 4K (UltraHD) format;
• have built-in synchronization with other electronic media.

What will you remember in 2024 in terms of action cameras, DSLRs and mirrorless devices? What models have become the most popular this year? Who deserves first place?

The best action cameras for travel and outdoor activities

For extreme lovers and adventure seekers, action cameras are an excellent choice. They are resistant to moisture, function in freezing and high temperatures, and are immersed in water.

Small, lightweight with intuitive control (from the parameters, as a rule, they use turning the device on and off). Due to the wide-angle lens installed in such devices, they perfectly broadcast the dynamics of the filmed events, and even embellish them.

3rd place: Polaroid Cube

Most people recognized the Polaroid Cube as the best action camera of 2024, and for good reason: Polaroid has released a real innovation in the world of cameras and cameras for outdoor activities and travel.

First, the length of the model's rib is only 35.01 millimeters. This allows you to place the action camera anywhere: head, shoulder, clothing.Also Polaroid Cube is lightweight - only 47 grams.

Secondly, the colossal performance is provided by a powerful processor with 5 cores, so the shooting is very high quality not only from the lenses and matrices, but also from the system as a whole. There is no system malfunction, and the recoil is high even when it gets wet or falls on rocks.

Thirdly, the Polaroid Cube camera body is made of a very durable plastic coated material. If the case is dropped, not only will it not break and not be covered with scratches, but the camera matrix itself will not suffer: it is covered by a lens that is strong, like transparent water, which can withstand great force.

Also, there is no place in the case for moisture to enter, and even if an unforeseen situation occurs, everything is covered with a special water-repellent surface. Water droplets remain on the surface. The action camera Polaroid Cube can be safely taken with you to the sea and diving: it will not only capture the best moments of life underwater, but also show excellent quality pictures and videos.

Fourth, the device has established itself as an action camera with an excellent wide-angle lens. The 5 MP sensor perfectly captures even the most difficult angles and panoramas. Climbers, surfers and other extreme sports enthusiasts, and just travelers, will find the Polaroid Cube useful.

All images will be of high quality and not blurry. All details, even the smallest, will not be overlooked. A wide-angle camera with a viewing angle of 124 degrees will allow you to shoot any panoramas, be it views of the Alps, Elbrus, endless fields or endless plains.

Fifth, the Polaroid Cube has a built-in small microphone in a very convenient place: next to the lens. This allows you to shoot movies with high quality sound. There are special noise mufflers in the microphone, so everything captured will be accompanied only by clear and clear comments.

Sixth, the manufacturers of this action camera have made the most optimal resolution option for modern devices and websites - FullHD 1920 * 1080 pixels. Frames captured with a Polaroid product will play on any device that supports high-definition resolution.

The camera is made in several colors:

• blue;
• pink;
• the black.

Each model has a signature detail in the form of a miniature straight rainbow. The package includes a Polaroid Cube action camera, documentation, a supply agreement and a warranty card.

The average price is 9,900 rubles.

• good protection against mechanical damage and moisture;
• wide angle lens;
• powerful processor;
• variation of color solutions;
• a high resolution;
• perfect optimization;
• original design;
• miniature size;
• built-in microphone;
• relatively low price compared to other action cameras;
• complete documentation;
• light weight.

• possible breakdowns due to improper operation;
• Polaroid's signature rainbow can wear off over time.

2nd place: SJCAM SJ4000

The SJCAM SJ4000 is a real innovation in the world of budget Wi-Fi action cameras. At its core, SJCAM SJ4000 is a budget, high-quality analogue of the sensational GoPro Hero4 camera, which will be discussed a little later. The SJ4000 series cameras are some of the most successful SJCAM camcorders to date. The SJ4000's compact size, treasure trove of essential features and low price have made this series the best selling low cost action camera.

The camera is available in three colors:

1. Black space.
2. White,
3. Blood red.

The SJCAm SJ4000 has a 12 megapixel sensor, the required HDMI output, the shooting quality is 1080P HD with 30FPS, 128 GB storage, an unrivaled 2-inch LCD screen, a 900mAh battery, a Micro USB port. The combination of these technical features at an affordable price makes this camera one of the best options for shooting amateur and even professional videos.

There are also functions for connecting to a Wi-Fi network, sound settings, sound recording option, automatic shutdown, burst mode settings, color adjustment, contrast adjustment, date and time printing, timer mode, tabletop camera mode, exposure control, FOV, frequency settings , image quality selection, ISE reduction, ISO settings, language settings, light set adjustments. SJCAM was not limited to this huge number of necessary functions.

Also added are such interesting options as long exposure mode, loop recording, motion detection, OSD enabled, photo mode, resolution adjustment, screen rotation, screen protector from mechanical damage, slow motion recording, underwater mode, protection from water at a depth of 30 meters, the ability to instantly place a watermark, WDR adjustment, white balance. This camera has won the Audience Award for its wide range of features.

The dimensions of the miniature camera are 59.3 mm long and 29.9 mm wide. The height is 42 mm. These dimensions allow you to place the camera in the required place for shooting: in a box or anywhere else. The SJCAm SJ4000 weighs only 60 grams.

The average price is 3,200 rubles.

• one of the widest range of functions among cameras of the corresponding price category;
• underwater shooting and slow motion video recording;
• protection of the screen from mechanical damage, and the case - from water ingress at a sufficiently large depth and at a sufficiently high water pressure;
• miniature size and, in principle, miniature dimensions;
• very beautiful colors in which the camera is produced.

• there are also negative reviews about the camera due to some differences from the GoPro Hero 4;
• can break down quickly if misused;
• Due to the structural features of the case, an action camera can be difficult to clean, as dirt gets clogged under screws and small parts.

1st Place: Go Pro Hero4

GoPro took a tiny box the size of a Zippo lighter and turned it into something really wonderful.

The GoPro Hero4 is the company's flagship camera aimed at professionals and anyone looking for the best video quality you can get from a fist-sized camera.

It is well worth the money, however: the GoPro Hero4 costs slightly more than the other action cameras above. This one costs $ 500 in the US, £ 370 in the UK and AU $ 649 for people in Australia. In Russia and the CIS countries, people can buy this camera for 26,000-30,000 thousand rubles.

The GoPro Hero4 comes in two basic colors:

1. Black;
2. White.

The camera's processor is twice as efficient as its predecessor, the GoPro Hero 3+, and can record videos up to 4K resolution at 30 frames per second. It can also capture 1080p at 120fps, which can result in very smooth recordings when shooting fast-moving scenes, as well as cold slow-motion footage. However, neither option supports battery operation.

Add a high write speed of 60 Mbps and have a powerful tiny camera on hand. The point is, there isn't a big performance or spec gap between the GoPro Hero4Black and the excellent GoPro Hero4 Silver, which is $ 100 cheaper and has a built-in touchscreen (part of what it won an Editors' Choice award for).

The GoPro Hero4 Black certainly has its advantages, but if you don't have the best of the GoPro series, you'll probably be better off with a Silver or a camera from Sony, iOn, Contour, Drift or others.

GoPro Hero3 \ 3 + owners will notice some minor but important changes with the Hero4, the most significant of which is the new battery compartment design.

It no longer slides along the back of the case, but is located in the lower part, which works great and makes it easier to replace them, however, this also required reworking the battery, which means that now it is no longer possible to use the batteries of previous models.

Another key change - this time for the better - is the camera buttons. The layout remains the same, but what was the Wi-Fi power button on the right side is now the Hilight button.

On the left side is a lightly protected removable cover that protects the micro HDMI and mini USB ports, while the microSD card slots support up to 64GB of storage.

The Mini-USB port is used to charge and transfer content from the microSD card, but can also be used with optional 3.5mm stereo microphone equipment so you can attach an external studio microphone. While it doesn't have a built-in touchscreen, it does have a Hero port that allows you to connect a GoPro Touch BacPac or Battery BacPac LCD.

For this money, you get a camera with a waterproof housing (up to 40 meters deep), a mount for better sound (unless full water resistance is required), two adhesive mounts (one flat and one curved), horizontal and vertical quick release buckles that attach to the bottom of the camera body and a 3-way rotary grip that allows you to mount the camera from the top, front or side of the helmet.

A small locking fork (also included) can be used to prevent the buckles from accidentally freeing them from their attachment by force or vibration. There is no charger in the camera box, just a Mini-USB cable for charging via a computer or a USB wall adapter if you have one. There's also no microSD card for storing data, so plan on getting at least one of these.

Compared to Hero3 +, GoPro Hero 4 is the same package of features with one exception: GoPro Wi-Fi Smart Remote not included. The remote has been redesigned to take advantage of the new HiLight / Settings button, so even though the old one will work, you'll have to spend $ 80, £ 60, 30,000 rubles or AU $ 119 for the updated version.

The average price is 20,500 rubles.

• the best action camera on the market;
• full set;
• additional tools included;
• wide range of functions;
• water resistance up to 40 meters;
• availability of Wi-Fi,
• the ability to shoot video with a resolution up to 4K;
• minimalistic design.

• high price;
• not much different from Go Pro Hero3 +.

The best compact cameras for travel and outdoor activities

Small cameras combine compactness and functionality. They are easy to use and will be an acceptable solution for novice photographers. The quality of the final frames and videos is no worse than clips shot by professionals.

3rd place: SONY CYBER-SHOT DSC-RX100

This model would be a great purchase before your vacation. It is comfortable and small, but at the same time of high quality. The device attracts even professionals. The fact is that in terms of image quality and functionality, this camera is in no way inferior to budget devices for professionals.

It records videos in FHD format, and the 20.9-megapixel sensor in combination with a fast lens makes it possible to get excellent shots even in low light conditions.

You can shoot high-quality images at night, and then compose one good shot from a number of failed ones. The model has a powerful battery that allows you to record video for a long time without the need for recharging. By the way, this parameter is one of the most important when buying a camera for outdoor activities.

Of the minuses, buyers note a slightly uncomfortable case design. The smooth, bump-free finish makes the grip unstable, making it feel like it will slip out of your hand. Not the best option was the lack of the ability to send pictures via a cable to a personal computer, in connection with which you will need to take out a flash drive. Otherwise, this is one of the best models for a relatively modest amount.

The average price is 27,000 rubles.

• fast lens;
• amazing matrix;
• Red Eye Reduction;
• the quality of the videos is commensurate with the characteristics specified by the manufacturer;
• rich display.

• there is no timer during HDR operation.

2nd place: CANON POWERSHOT SX620 HS

This model is available for budget travelers.It is small and affordable, however, it allows you to capture the important moments of your vacation. Customers love the battery power, 25x zoom and image quality.

Especially, shots are excellent in poor light conditions and at night. The landscapes of nature will turn out to be ideal, but for walking around the city it is better to look at another camera, even despite the fact that the model is small, ergonomic and can fit in a jacket pocket.

Users who like to record videos will love this camera too. The fact is that video recording is possible without stopping to write for 30 minutes. It will not be superfluous to mention that the model has high-quality image stabilization on the go. It is allowed to change the optical zoom parameters during shooting.

There is a wireless communication unit, so the footage can be instantly transferred to the phone and shared on popular social networks. The disadvantages are that there is no way to recharge the battery from an external source. Charge recovery is carried out exclusively by connecting to a full-scale 220 V power supply. Otherwise, this is an excellent and affordable option for tourists.

The average price is 13,000 rubles.

• good indicators of autonomy;
• excellent zoom;
• high quality output images;
• many shooting modes.

• you cannot charge the battery from a computer or other devices.

1st place: PANASONIC LUMIX DC-ZS200 / TZ200

This camera is in the first place in the category of small models. According to most of its characteristics, it is one of the best for outdoor activities and tourism.

20-megapixel matrix, 15x zoom, white balance mode, electronic stabilization during video shooting - not a complete list of the advantages of this device. The product provides a high quality image, in particular if the owner is able to understand most of the parameters. The same item is counted among the minuses of the model, since it will not work to take the gadget out of the box and start shooting.

The camera is small, especially considering the zoom and sensor options. The touch-type display makes it possible to adjust the focus and direct it to the desired point. The model starts instantly, so the owner does not have to wait long, which means that everything interesting will be filmed.

The device will be an excellent purchase before going on vacation, as well as suitable for active shooting by amateurs, since it has everything you need.

The average price is 46,200 rubles.

• excellent inch matrix, working quietly with the necessary amount of DD and rich colors. Although there are a lot of MPs (20), however, it makes no sense to make claims to the manufacturer;
• variety of parameters. The menu structure is kind of ridiculous, however, adapting is real. The menu is customizable;
• there are positions on the control dial for instant access to user parameters (3 pcs.);
• Rubber overlays on the front and back for improved grip when compared to the TZ100 and LX15;
• the display has a high-quality anti-glare surface;
• several colors;
• comparative lightness and compactness;
• if you start the camera while holding down the view key, it instantly switches to view mode and does not pop out the lens;
• it is possible to adjust the viewing mode so that the lens does not retract;
• shows the focal length on the display in full frame ratio during the zoom;
• the integrated flash is allowed to point upwards;
• there is a function of uninterrupted connection via Bluetooth;
• good stabilization;
• pretty fast auto focus;
• it is convenient to shoot with one hand with access to the main functions: on / off, magnification, setting key settings;
• charged via USB;
• good indicators of autonomy.

• non-rotating display;
• the screen often works accidentally;
• the lens is loose in the VI, as a result of which the clarity of the image in the viewfinder changes if the device is tilted up and down;
• aperture is clamped only up to 8f;
• there is no thread for light filters on the lens.

The best DSLRs for travel and outdoor activities

Reflective models are referred to as professional cameras. Such devices are not always a good solution for beginner photographers. The devices have good technological parameters, a variety of adjustments and rich functionality for shooting.

2nd place: PENTAX K-70 KIT

Lightweight and comfortable body design make this model the best choice for capturing images during outdoor activities. Despite the fact that the model cannot be ranked among budget devices, the functionality and parameters fully determine its cost. Excellent shooting speed will make it possible to capture all important events. Despite the fact that the device is ranked among the group of DSLR cameras for amateurs, it fully meets the needs of photography professionals.

In particular, buyers love the waterproof and dustproof housing, allowing them to take photographs in places and conditions where others cannot. It is for this reason that the model will be an excellent option for capturing unforgettable beach shots.

The only disadvantages are that it is better for a person with experience to use a camera. The fact is that DSLRs are rarely an acceptable solution for aspiring photographers. Among other things, this is an excellent small device for outdoor activities with excellent technological parameters.

The average price is 52,000 rubles.

• high density FHD 60i / 50i / 30p / 25p / 24p images;
• good image with great detail;
• automatic focusing "on the face";
• there is Movie SR stabilization when photographing without a tripod.

• in the video mode, focusing “picking” does not function with manual focus;
• there is no possibility of shooting in 4K format;
• Professionals are saddened by the fact that they cannot send an uncompressed signal via HDMI.

1st place: NIKON D3400 KIT

A good model of the mirror type with a 24-megapixel performance matrix and a good-quality lens will give you the opportunity to tell your colleagues, friends and relatives about your vacation in colors.

The powerful battery allows you to shoot for a long time without the need for recharging. A clear menu and navigation through the adjustments make it possible for even a beginner to understand the device in a matter of minutes. By the way, an integrated textbook is provided for beginner photographers in the camera.

A quiet lens does not spoil the video recording with extraneous noise, which can be shot in good quality. In addition, buyers love high-quality stabilization, so blurry footage will be extremely rare.

The device comes with a neck strap, which greatly simplifies the issue of transporting the device while on vacation. The disadvantages are small zoom and the fact that there is no port for connecting an external microphone.

Otherwise, this is a chic solution from the number of affordable DSLRs, which will be an acceptable option for beginners.

The average price is 23,200 rubles.

• availability;
• no surplus - all the functionality that the owner will really need for photographing and filming on a trip is here;
• a great buy for beginner photographers;
• there is Smart Bridge and Bluetooth;
• comfortable ergonomics of control, lightness and small dimensions;
• compatible with lenses from Nikon.

• fixed non-touch display;
• the effect of changing the aperture value in Live View mode is not shown for photo and video shooting;
• focuses very slowly and shoots in Live View mode;
• no microphone jack;
• the device does not save the timer settings for the automatic release, so for each subsequent shot it must be set from scratch;
• housing made of inexpensive plastic materials.

Best mirrorless cameras for travel and outdoor activities

This heading of models for active recreation contains cameras that do not lose in the quality of frames of the above category of devices, however, when compared with SLR, these are more understandable in operation and smaller in size.

2nd place: FUJIFILM X-T100 KIT

This model will appeal to fans of photography from the times of the USSR. Its appearance is similar to the devices of the previous generation, however, at the same time, the device meets all the needs of a modern photographer and rightfully takes the second place in our top of the best cameras for outdoor activities. The model is small, however, at the same time it offers the owner many possibilities.

If you believe the reviews of professionals, then this camera will be an excellent option for photographing cityscapes. The swivel display allows you to shoot from the most unpredictable angles. In addition, the touch-type display makes it possible to program swipes "for yourself" and instantly carry out pre-prepared commands.

During video shooting, electronic stabilization is activated, however, not everyone likes it. At the same time, face tracking deserved a lot of positive comments.

Among the shortcomings, they note a slight "lag" of the device at certain moments, which is due to the presence of a relatively unproductive chip, however, for a photographer indulgent to details, this model will undoubtedly be an excellent option.

The average price is 35,900 rubles.

• high-quality shots in auto mode and scene programs;
• small size and lightness;
• retro performance and 3 colors;
• excellent battery life - about 430 shots from a single battery charge;
• charged from USB;
• a small threshold of digital distortion, including ISO no more than 3 200;
• liquid crystal display with an exclusive device;
• multifocus (focus stacking) mode without auxiliary equipment and program-type processing;
• mixed (contrast and phase) automatic focusing;
• synchronization with smartphones via Wi-Fi and energy saving Bluetooth.

• video shooting in 4K format only at 15 FPS;
• autofocus not fully tenacious and quick for reporting;
• there is no RAW shooting in auto and scene programs.

1st place: SONY ALPHA ILCE-6000 BODY

The first place in this section of our top was earned by the most affordable camera, which at the same time does not lose to anyone in terms of quality and functionality. Buyers note many advantages of the device in their comments: matrix size with large coverage, picture quality, small dimensions.

The integrated flash can be directed in any direction, forming the diffusion effect in the required amount. The picture is shown on the screen in the form in which it will look at the end.

The functionality of this camera is often compared to the capabilities of devices for professionals. A 100% battery is sufficient for 300 shots. A colossal advantage for a tourist is that the model can be recharged from Powerbank via microUSB cable. This provides improved mobility. If there is such a need, then the taken photos can be sent via Wi-Fi or NFC directly to the smartphone.

Among the shortcomings, it is noted that you cannot shoot video in 4K format, as well as the lack of dust and moisture protection.

The average price is 34,000 rubles.

• excellent detailing, there is no "terrible" color chromatism, the color rendition is bright and saturated, probably even too much;
• as it turned out, in the dark and in poor lighting conditions it is better to shoot with auto parameters;
• the image comes out truly "alive", and not flat when compared with the models of the NEX line.

• It is better to customize portrait shots yourself.

Conclusion

The market for cameras and cameras for outdoor activities and travel is not as big as it seems. After examining a dozen models, you can easily find what is right for you according to different criteria: price, purpose and technical characteristics, however, all cameras presented in this top are famous for their high-quality images and durability, because it is not without reason that they have been appreciated by millions of people around the world. ...