GPS lets you add speed, elevation and route overlays to your videos and keeps a record of where you rode.
We picked the best action cameras with GPS.
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Quick Picks
- Best overall with GPS: GoPro HERO13 Black
- Best GPS battery bundle: GoPro HERO13 Extended Power Bundle
- Best cycling GPS camera: Spedal S1 4K Bike Camera with GPS
- Best without built-in GPS (phone data): DJI Osmo Action 6
- Best 360 option: Insta360 X5
Comparison Table
| Product | Best for | Video | Standout feature | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GoPro HERO13 Black | Best overall with GPS | 5.3K60 | HB-Series lens mods, GPS | View |
| GoPro HERO13 Extended Power Bundle | Best GPS battery bundle | 5.3K60 | 3 Enduro batteries | View |
| Spedal S1 4K Bike Camera with GPS | Best cycling GPS camera | 4K30 | GPS, cycling computer, light | View |
| DJI Osmo Action 6 | Best without built-in GPS (phone data) | 8K, 1/1.1″ | Variable aperture f/2.0-4.0 | View |
| Insta360 X5 | Best 360 option | 8K30 360° | Dual 1/1.28″ sensors | View |
Detailed Reviews
1GoPro HERO13 Black records 5.3K60 video and 27MP photos and works with HB-Series lens mods, including an Ultra Wide lens and a Macro lens. GoPro brought GPS back on HERO13.
It is our top all-round action camera thanks to its stabilization, ecosystem and accessories.
Pros & Cons
What we like
- Lens mod system
- GPS
- Best accessory ecosystem
Watch out for
- Premium
- Battery drains fast at 5.3K
Key Specs
- Video: 5.3K60
- Photo: 27MP
- Lenses: HB-Series mods
- GPS: yes
2This bundle adds a dual battery charger and three Enduro batteries to the HERO13 Black.
It is the easiest way to get long battery life from a GoPro.
Pros & Cons
What we like
- Three batteries
- Dual charger
- Flagship camera
Watch out for
- Bundle costs more
- More to carry
Key Specs
- Camera: HERO13 Black
- Includes: 3 Enduro batteries, dual charger
3Spedal’s S1 combines a 4K30 camera with 6-axis stabilization, GPS tracking, a cycling computer and a headlight.
It is a niche but useful option for commuters who want ride data and footage in one device.
Pros & Cons
What we like
- GPS tracking
- Cycling computer
- Headlight
Watch out for
- Newer brand
- Budget video quality
Key Specs
- Video: 4K30
- Stabilization: 6-axis EIS
- Extras: GPS, headlight
4DJI’s Osmo Action 6 adds a variable aperture from f/2.0 to f/4.0 and 8K video, so it adapts to bright sun and dim evenings.
It is DJI’s most capable action camera in our list.
Pros & Cons
What we like
- Variable aperture
- 8K video
- Excellent low light
Watch out for
- Premium
- New model, fewer reviews
Key Specs
- Aperture: f/2.0-f/4.0
- Video: up to 8K
- Sensor: 1/1.1 in square
5The Insta360 X5 is the flagship 360 camera most riders and travelers start with. Dual 1/1.28-inch sensors record 8K30 360-degree video, and a triple AI chip design improves low-light footage.
It is waterproof, has replaceable lenses and supports the invisible selfie stick effect and AI reframing in the Insta360 app.
Pros & Cons
What we like
- Excellent 360 image quality
- Replaceable lenses
- Mature editing app
Watch out for
- Large files to manage
- Lenses need guards
Key Specs
- Video: 8K30 360°
- Sensors: dual 1/1.28 in
- Waterproof: yes
- Lenses: replaceable
How We Chose
We compared sensors, video modes, stabilization, waterproofing, battery options and mounting ecosystems across dozens of cameras, then read verified owner feedback to find reliability and usability issues that spec sheets miss. We did not receive free products, and we do not claim hands-on testing. TOR Scores combine published specs, verified owner feedback and overall value.
How to Choose an Action Camera
An action camera is a small, rugged camera built to be mounted on helmets, handlebars, chests and boards. The best one for you depends on what you film and how you will edit.
- Sensor size: larger sensors (1/1.3 inch and up) handle low light, sunsets and shade much better than small budget sensors.
- Stabilization: modern electronic stabilization (HyperSmooth, RockSteady, FlowState) makes bumpy footage watchable. Budget cameras use simpler EIS.
- Resolution and frame rate: 4K at 60 fps is plenty for most people; 4K at 120 fps lets you slow down fast action.
- Waterproofing: many flagship cameras are waterproof without a case to about 10 meters or more; budget models often need the included housing.
- Battery: cold weather drains batteries fast, so look for spare batteries or extended-battery bundles.
- Mounts and ecosystem: GoPro-style mounts are the most common; magnetic quick-release mounts save time.
- App and editing: a good phone app makes it easy to trim, reframe and share.
Using GPS Data
GPS-enabled cameras record location and speed alongside video. Apps and desktop tools can turn that data into gauges and maps on your footage. If your camera lacks GPS, some apps can sync data from your phone or a bike computer instead.
Related guides: best action camera with long battery life, best action camera for mountain biking, best action camera for motorcycle, best action camera. See every pick in our Action Cameras category.
Common Action Camera Mistakes
- Using a slow memory card. Recording stops or files corrupt. Use a card the maker recommends.
- Forgetting a lens guard. Scratches are permanent and ruin footage.
- Mounting too loosely. Vibration causes jello and lost cameras. Tighten and tether mounts.
- Recording everything at maximum settings. 8K or 5.3K fills cards and drains batteries quickly; choose 4K for most clips.
- Ignoring audio. Wind noise ruins many clips; use wind reduction or a mic accessory.
- Not updating firmware. Updates often improve stabilization and battery life.
Accessories Worth Buying
- Spare batteries and a charger: the most useful upgrade for long days.
- Fast microSD cards: buy two so you can swap when one fills up.
- Lens guards or protectors: cheap insurance against scratches.
- Chest and helmet mounts: for natural POV shots.
- Floating handle: essential near water.
- Mini tripod or selfie stick: for vlogging and time-lapses.
Action Camera Care and Settings
- Use a fast, high-endurance microSD card rated for 4K recording.
- Update firmware through the app for better stabilization and battery life.
- Keep spare batteries warm in an inside pocket on cold days.
- Use a lens guard; scratched lenses ruin footage.
- For most sports, 4K at 60 fps with stabilization on is a good default.
Mounting Tips for Riders and Athletes
- Use a secure, purpose-made mount and a tether where possible.
- Chest mounts give a natural, stable riding view; helmet mounts show where you are looking.
- Check that mounts do not interfere with your helmet’s fit or your field of view.
- Start recording before you set off, and never adjust the camera while riding.
- Clean the lens and check battery and card space before each session.
Sources and further reading: Leave No Trace: the 7 Principles (respect wildlife and other visitors when filming), National Park Service: the Ten Essentials and NHTSA: bicycle safety. Product specs come from brand listings on Amazon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are action cameras waterproof?
Many flagship models are waterproof without a case to around 10 meters or more. Budget cameras usually need the included housing. Check the rated depth before swimming or diving.
How long do action camera batteries last?
Typically 1 to 2 hours of recording, less at high resolution, high frame rates or in cold weather. Carry spares for long days.
Do I need a gimbal with an action camera?
Usually not. Modern electronic stabilization is very good. A gimbal still helps for very smooth walking shots or with older cameras.
Which action cameras are best in low light?
Cameras with larger sensors, such as 1/1.3-inch or bigger, and bright apertures do best. Budget cameras with small sensors struggle at dusk and indoors.
What memory card do I need?
A fast microSD card rated V30 or higher is a safe choice for 4K. High-end cameras recording 8K or high bitrates may need faster cards; check the maker’s list.
Final Verdict
The GoPro HERO13 Black is our top action camera with built-in GPS. For commuters, the Spedal S1 adds GPS tracking and a headlight.
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