Rating of the best cameras for travel and outdoor activities for 2022

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 recording and this or that moment of life will pop up in your memories. This can be done with the help of special cameras and cameras produced 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 designed specifically 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 stronger case, so that in the event of a sudden drop into water, on stones or pressure drops, nothing happens to the device;
• have a special mount 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 2022 be remembered for 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 fans of extreme sports and adventure seekers, action cameras are an excellent choice. They are resistant to moisture, function in conditions of negative and high temperatures, and they are also immersed in water.

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

3rd place: Polaroid Cube

Most people voted the Polaroid Cube as the best action camera of 2022, and for good reason: Polaroid has released a real innovation in the world of cameras for outdoor activities and travel.

Firstly, the length of the model rib is only 35.01 millimeters. This allows you to place the action camera anywhere: on the head, shoulder, clothes. Also Polaroid Cube has a small weight - only 47 grams.

Secondly, a powerful processor with 5 cores provides tremendous performance, so shooting is very high quality not only from the lenses and matrices, but also from the system as a whole. There are no system failures, and the return is high even when wet or falling on rocks.

Thirdly, the body of the Polaroid Cube camera is made of a very durable material coated with plastic. In the event of a fall, the case will not only not be broken or covered with scratches, but the camera matrix itself will not suffer: it is covered with a lens that is as strong as water, transparent, and 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. Drops of water remain on the surface. The Polaroid Cube action camera can be safely taken to the sea and scuba diving: it will not only capture the best moments of life under water, but also show excellent quality of pictures and videos.

Fourthly, the device has established itself as an action camera with an excellent wide-angle lens. The 5 MP matrix perfectly captures even the most difficult angles and panoramas. Climbers, surfers and other fans of extreme sports, and just travelers, will benefit from Polaroid Cube.

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

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

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

The camera is made in several colors:

• blue;
• pink;
• the black.

Each model has a branded 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;
• color variation;
• 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 damage due to improper use;
• over time, Polaroid's signature rainbow can wear off.

2nd place: SJCAM SJ4000

The SJCAM SJ4000 is a true innovation in the world of budget action cameras with Wi-Fi connectivity. 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 among the most successful SJCAM camcorders to date. The compact size of the SJ4000, a 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, 1080P HD at 30FPS, 128GB storage, unrivaled 2" LCD screen, 900mAh battery, Micro USB port. The combination of these technical characteristics 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, auto power off, burst mode settings, color adjustment, contrast adjustment, date and time stamp, timer mode, table camera mode, exposure adjustment, FOV, frequency settings , image quality selection, ISE reduction, ISO setting, language setting, light set adjustment. SJCAM did not limit itself to this huge number of necessary functions.

Interesting options have also been added such as long exposure mode, loop recording, motion detection, on-screen menu, photo mode, resolution adjustment, screen rotation, screen protector from mechanical damage, slow motion recording, underwater shooting mode, water protection up to 30 meters, the ability to instantly place a watermark, WDR adjustment, white balance. With a wide range of features, this camera won the People's Choice Award.

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 somewhere else. The SJCAm SJ4000 weighs only 60 grams.

The average price is 3,200 rubles.

• one of the widest ranges 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 housing - from water ingress at a sufficiently large depth and at a sufficiently large 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 GoPro Hero 4;
• can quickly break down if misused;
• Due to the structural nature of the case, an action camera can be difficult to clean, as dirt clogs under the screws and small parts.

1st place: Go Pro Hero4

GoPro has taken a tiny box the size of a Zippo lighter and turned it into something truly remarkable.

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

However, it comes at a price: the GoPro Hero4 costs a little more than the other action cameras mentioned 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+, capable of recording video at up to 4K resolution at 30 frames per second. It can also capture 1080p at 120fps, which can result in very smooth recording when shooting fast-moving scenes, as well as cold slow motion footage. However, none of the options support battery operation.

Add a high recording speed of 60Mbps and you have a powerful tiny camera on hand. Thing is, there's not much of a 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 perks, but unless you 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.

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

It no longer slides on the back of the case but sits at the bottom, which works great and makes it easy to change them, however, this also required a redesign of the battery, which means that it is no longer possible to use batteries from previous models.

Another key change – this time for the better – are 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 removable cover with a light guard protecting the micro HDMI and mini USB ports, while the microSD card slots support up to 64 GB of storage.

The mini-USB port is used for charging and transferring content from a 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 lets you connect a GoPro LCD Touch BacPac or Battery BacPac.

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

A small locking fork (also included) can be used to prevent the buckles from being accidentally released from the mount by force or vibration. There is no charger in the camera box, only a mini-USB cable for charging via a computer or wall-mounted USB adapter if you have one. There's also no microSD card for storage, so plan on getting at least one.

Compared to the Hero3+, the GoPro Hero 4 is the same feature pack with one exception: the GoPro Wi-Fi Smart Remote is not included. The remote has been modified to take advantage of the new HiLight/Settings button, so while the old one will still work, you'll have to spend $80, £60, or AU$119 for an upgraded version.

The average price is 20,500 rubles.

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

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

Best compact cameras for travel and outdoor activities

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

3rd place: SONY CYBER-SHOT DSC-RX100

This model will be a great purchase before the holidays. It is comfortable and small, but at the same time it is of high quality. The device attracts even professionals.The fact is that in terms of image quality and functionality, this camera does not lose to budget devices for professionals.

It records videos in FHD format, and a 20.9-megapixel matrix, combined with a fast lens, makes it possible to get excellent shots even in poor lighting conditions.

You can shoot high-quality images at night, and then make one good shot out of a number of bad 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 design of the case. The smooth finish without protrusions makes the grip unstable, which makes it feel like the device will slip out of your hands. Not the best option was the inability to send pictures via cable to a personal computer, in connection with which you need to get 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 rollers is commensurate with the characteristics specified by the manufacturer;
• rich display.

• no timer during operation in HDR mode.

2nd place: CANON POWERSHOT SX620 HS

For budget travelers there is this model. It is small and affordable, but it gives you the opportunity to capture the important moments of your vacation. Customers like the battery power, 25x zoom and image quality.

In particular, shots are excellent in poor light conditions and at night.Landscapes of nature will turn out 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 also like this camera. The fact is that video filming has the ability to write without stopping for 30 minutes. It would not be superfluous to mention that the model has high-quality image stabilization on the go. You can change the optical zoom settings while shooting.

There is a wireless-type communication unit, so the frames can be instantly transferred to the phone and shared on popular social networks. Of the shortcomings - there is no way to recharge the battery from an external source. Recharging is carried out exclusively by connecting to a full-sized 220 V electrical network. 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 can not charge the battery from a computer and other devices.

1st place: PANASONIC LUMIX DC-ZS200/TZ200

In the first place in the category of small models, this camera is confidently located. By most characteristics, it is one of the best for outdoor activities and tourism.

A 20-megapixel matrix, 15x zoom, white balance mode, electronic type stabilization in the process of shooting video is not a complete list of the advantages of this device. The product provides a high-quality image, in particular, if the owner can understand most of the parameters.The same item is also 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, in particular, given the zoom and matrix parameters. The touch-type display allows you to adjust the focus and direct it to the desired point. The model launches instantly, so the owner doesn't have to wait long, which means anything interesting is captured.

The device is an excellent purchase before you go on vacation, and also suitable for active shooting by amateurs, as it has everything you need.

The average price is 46,200 rubles.

• excellent inch matrix, working quietly with the required amount of DD and rich colors. Although there are many MPs (20), however, it makes no sense to make claims to the manufacturer here;
• variety of parameters. The menu structure is kind of ridiculous, however, it's realistic to adapt. The menu is customizable;
• on the control dial there are positions for instant access to user parameters (3 pcs.);
• rubber pads on the front and back of the device improve grip compared to the TZ100 and LX15 models;
• the display has a high-quality anti-reflective 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 stick out the lens;
• it is possible to adjust the viewing mode so that the lens does not retract;
• in the process of zooming, shows the focal length in full-frame ratio on the display;
• the built-in flash can be directed upwards;
• there is a function of uninterrupted connection via Bluetooth;
• good stabilization;
• fairly fast auto focus;
• convenient to shoot with one hand with access to the main functions: on / off, zoom, set key settings;
• charged via USB;
• good indicators of autonomy.

• fixed display;
• the screen often works by accident;
• the lens in the VI staggers, 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

SLR models are classified as cameras for professionals. 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

The light weight and comfortable design of the body make the model the best solution for capturing images during outdoor activities. Despite the fact that the model cannot be classified as a budget device, the functionality and parameters fully determine its cost. Excellent shooting speed will make it possible to capture all the important events. Despite the fact that the device is classified as a group of SLR cameras for amateurs, it fully satisfies the needs of photography professionals.

In particular, buyers like the waterproof and dustproof housing, which allows you to take pictures 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 downside is that using a camera is better for a person with experience. The fact is that DSLRs are rarely an acceptable solution for beginner photographers. In other words, this is an excellent small device for outdoor activities with excellent technological parameters.

The average price is 52,000 rubles.

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

• in video mode, focusing "peaking" does not work with manual focus;
• there is no possibility of shooting in 4K format;
• professionals are upset that you can not give an uncompressed signal via HDMI.

1st place: NIKON D3400 KIT

A good mirror-type model with a 24-megapixel productive matrix and a solid lens will make it possible to tell colleagues, friends and relatives about your vacation in colors.

A powerful battery allows you to shoot for a sufficiently 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, for novice photographers, the camera provides an integrated tutorial.

A quiet lens does not spoil the video recording with extraneous noise, which can be shot in good quality. In addition, buyers like 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 during the holidays.Of the minuses, there is a small zoom and the fact that there is no port for connecting an external microphone.

Other than that, it's a chic DSLR solution that's affordable for beginners.

The average price is 23,200 rubles.

• availability;
• no surplus - all the functionality that the owner really needs to take pictures and videos while traveling is here;
• great buy for beginner photographers;
• there is Smart Bridge and Bluetooth;
• comfortable ergonomics of control, lightness and small dimensions;
• Compatible with Nikon lenses.

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

The best mirrorless cameras for travel and outdoor activities

This section of models for outdoor activities contains cameras that do not lose in terms of frame quality to the above category of devices, however, when compared with SLRs, 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 is rightfully located in second place in our top of the best cameras for outdoor activities.The model is small, however, at the same time offers the owner a lot of possibilities.

If you believe the reviews of professionals, then this camera will be an excellent option for photographing urban landscapes. The swivel type 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 type stabilization is turned on, however, not everyone likes it. At the same time, tracking focus on the face deserved a lot of positive comments.

Among the shortcomings, they note a slight “slowness” of the device at certain points, which is due to the presence of a relatively unproductive chip, however, for a photographer who is condescending to details, this model will no doubt be an excellent option.

The average price is 35,900 rubles.

• high-quality shots in auto mode and subject programs;
• small size and light weight;
• retro design and 3 color solutions;
• excellent performance in offline mode - approximately 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 exclusive device;
• multifocus mode (focus stacking) 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;
• not fully tenacious and nimble autofocus for reporting;
• there is no shooting in RAW format in auto mode and scene programs.

1st place: SONY ALPHA ILCE-6000 BODY

The first place in this category 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: the size of the matrix with a large coverage, picture quality, small dimensions.

It is possible to direct the flash of the integrated type in any direction, forming the scattering 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 with the capabilities of devices for professionals. 100% battery is enough for 300 shots. A huge advantage for the tourist is that the model has the ability to recharge from the Powerbank via a microUSB cable. This provides improved mobility. If there is such a need, then the photographs taken can be sent via Wi-Fi or NFC directly to a smartphone.

Among the shortcomings, they note 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 reproduction is bright and saturated, probably even too much;
• as it turned out, at night and in poor lighting conditions it is better to shoot with auto settings;
• the image comes out truly “alive”, and not flat, when compared with models in the NEX line.

• portrait shots are best adjusted by yourself.

Conclusion

The market for cameras and cameras for outdoor activities and travel is not as big as it seems. Having studied a dozen models, you can easily find what suits you according to different criteria: price, purpose and technical characteristics, however, all the cameras presented in this top are famous for their high-quality images and durability, because millions of people around the world have appreciated them for a reason .