Whether mountain biking, skiing, or rally driving, the best helmet camera helps you capture hectic action. You no longer need heavy or complicated equipment to record point-of-view (POV) sports or travel footage. All you need is a specialist action or helmet camera.
We’ve made a list of the best helmet cameras on the market. And the very best is the GoPro 11 Black. It’s not an original top choice. But it has everything you need for incredible helmet cam media. Take stunning images or record scintillating footage with this robust and waterproof GoPro!
What Is the Best Helmet Camera?
Until recently, it was impossible to share a true reflection of your experience when riding a motorcycle or snowboarding. But thanks to modern action cameras, you can create videos showing your point of view.
POV sports videos are perfect for sharing on social media. They can help you build a following. And they can inspire others to try the sport for themselves. Helmet camera videos are also great for documenting journeys and adventures if you’re a motorcyclist.
The best helmet camera needs to have excellent video specs. Video resolution is always a top priority. But you must also consider the frame rate, especially recording sports. A faster frame rate gives you smoother video. And this is measured in frames per second (fps).
A helmet camera also needs to be a convenient size. You can’t strap a camcorder to your head! You need a small action camera that’s safe, lightweight, and robust. You don’t want a fragile helmet cam.
Here’s a rundown of the best helmet cameras. We look at all the helmet cameras in more detail in the section after. And there’s an FAQ section at the end if you need more information on the best helmet cameras.
- 5.3K video and 27 MP (megapixel) photos for stunning detail
- Has the tallest and widest field of view
- Front and rear LCD screens for perfect framing
- Emmy award-winning HyperSmooth 5.0 stabilization
- Auto upload and highlight video creation while charging
- Stunning 4K Ultra HD video
- Wireless wrist remote control
- Two rechargeable batteries for extended use
- Built-in Wi-Fi for easy sharing
- 98 ft (30 m) waterproof case for extreme environments
- 5.7k 360-degree video footage
- Built-in FlowState image stabilization
- Single-lens mode for standard 4K video
- Wide-angle lenses for a 170-degree field of view
- 8K time-lapse video recording
- Compact design and immersive POV footage
- 5.3K video with HyperSmooth 5.0 stabilization for stunning quality
- Dual "fingers" for more body and helmet mounting options
- Rugged and waterproof, ready for any adventure
- Auto-uploads footage to the cloud, creating highlight videos
- 4K HDR video captures natural, vivid details
- 10-bit color depth records over one billion colors
- HorizonSteady ensures smooth, level footage
- Durable with 160-min max battery life in extreme conditions
- Waterproof up to 52 ft (16 m) underwater
- Tiny action pod camera weighs only 1.2 oz (35 g)
- Fabulous 2.7K video footage at 30 fps
- 4x slow-motion footage in Full HD mode
- Magnetic mounting for camera pod and screen unit
- Waterproof down to 16 ft (5 m)
- Comes with helmet mount for side or top mounting
- 4K video with a 30 fps frame rate
- Electronic image stabilization
- Long battery life gives you 5 hours of 4K shooting
- IP65 water-resistant
- Helmet camera and communications unit
- Bluetooth connectivity with Mesh intercom
- 4K video with a 30 fps frame rate
- Electronic image stabilization in Full HD
- 12 MP stills, time-lapse mode, and burst shooting
8 Best Helmet Cameras
Here are the best helmet cameras in more detail. We have the best options from the industry leader, GoPro. But we also have fantastic action camera alternatives. And we even have specialist helmet cameras for motorcyclists!
1. GoPro Hero 11
| Brand |
Brand
GoPro
|
| Dimensions |
Dimensions
2.8 x 2.2 x 1.3 in / 7 x 5.5 x 3.4 cm
|
| Weight |
Weight
0.34 lb / 155 g
|
| Image Resolution |
Image Resolution
27 MP
|
| Video Resolution |
Video Resolution
5.3K
|
| Max Frame Rate |
Max Frame Rate
60 fps at 5.3K
|
| Stabilization |
Stabilization
HyperSmooth 5.0 Stabilization
|
| Other Key Features |
Other Key Features
Waterproof (33 ft / 10 m), horizon lock, Enduro battery
|
| Best For |
Best For
All extreme sports, especially water sports
|
GoPro cameras are synonymous with action cameras, and that’s no fluke. They were the first. And they continue to be the best. The GoPro Hero 11 Black is their best camera yet. And it makes the perfect helmet camera for sports of any kind.
This is the full-size GoPro Hero 11. But it’s still a compact camera weighing only 0.34 lb (155 g).
It’s also fully waterproof, not just weather-resistant. You can use it underwater down to a depth of 33 ft (10 m). And you don’t need a waterproof case. This gives you incredible freedom to shoot what you want.
The video specs are fantastic for a camera of this size. You can record stunning action videos with a glorious 5.3K resolution. The details and colors are accurate and true to life. And you can record at max resolution with a 60-fps frame rate. That gives you super-smooth action videos.
If you’re using a helmet, you’re probably in for a bumpy ride. Thankfully, GoPro’s HyperSmooth 5.0 image stabilization reduces the effect of bumps and knocks in the footage. The GoPro ensures smooth, watchable video even if you drive over rocky ground.
You also have the horizon lock feature for more stable videos. It locks onto the horizon and keeps it central. You can lean to the left or right, but the video turns. So the horizon is also in the center of your picture. This looks great if you’re recording rider footage of Moto GP (YouTube clip).
You can also use the GoPro for still images. It has a 27 MP image sensor, which is impressive for an action camera. That’s a higher resolution than many entry-level DSLR cameras.
You can also shoot time-lapse photography. And the camera creates the video in-camera, so you don’t need photo editing software.
The GoPro Hero 11 is one of the more pricier helmet camera options. But it is worth the price. It delivers sensational media with features designed for high-octane sports action. It’s small enough for any bike or motorbike helmet. And you’ll be impressed by the results!
2. Akaso EK7000
| Brand |
Brand
Akaso
|
| Dimensions |
Dimensions
1 x 2 x 1.5 inches / 2.5 x 5 x 3.8 cm
|
| Weight |
Weight
0.124 lb / 57 g
|
| Image Resolution |
Image Resolution
20 MP
|
| Video Resolution |
Video Resolution
4K
|
| Max Frame Rate |
Max Frame Rate
30 fps at 4K
|
| Stabilization |
Stabilization
None
|
| Other Key Features |
Other Key Features
Waterproof (with case), time-lapse video, loop recording, built-in Wi-Fi, remote shooting
|
| Best For |
Best For
Anyone looking for a budget-friendly action camera
|
The Akaso EK7000 is a fantastic yet affordable action camera. And thanks to the case and mount, it doubles as a helmet camera. It is missing some of the more advanced features of the GoPro. But it still delivers excellent action videos at a bargain price.
The camera body isn’t waterproof. But it comes with waterproof housing you can use while filming. And when it’s secure in the case, you can use the camera underwater down to 98 ft (30 m). This means you’ll have no issues using the camera in the rain.
It might be a budget action camera. But the video results are excellent. It records with a 4K video resolution. And you get a smooth 30-fps frame rate at full resolution. This gives you slick footage when you’re traveling at high speeds.
You get a lovely wide-angle lens built into the camera. It gives you a beautiful 170-degree field of view, ideal for POV helmet cam footage.
One downside is the lack of image stabilization. This means the footage can be fairly shaky if you go over uneven ground.
But you can take impressive still images with the 20 MP sensor. The details are excellent, and you get true-to-life colors. There are also time-lapse and burst shooting modes for more creative photography options.
The camera has a remote control, allowing you to start and stop filming when the camera’s attached to the helmet. So you don’t have to remove your helmet and fiddle with the camera. But be aware that the remote is not waterproof.
The Akaso EK7000 delivers excellent results. And because of the accessories, it’s a top helmet camera. It’s also one of the most affordable action cameras on the market. So it’s a great option if it’s your first action camera.
3. Insta360 X3
| Brand |
Brand
Insta360
|
| Dimensions |
Dimensions
4.5 x 1.8 x 1.3 inches / 11.4 x 4.6 x 3.3 cm
|
| Weight |
Weight
1.4 lb / 180 g
|
| Image Resolution |
Image Resolution
48 MP
|
| Video Resolution |
Video Resolution
5.7K
|
| Max Frame Rate |
Max Frame Rate
30 fps at 5.7K
|
| Stabilization |
Stabilization
FlowState Stabilization
|
| Other Key Features |
Other Key Features
360-degree videos, 8K time-lapse videos, single lens mode
|
| Best For |
Best For
360-degree helmet cam videos
|
The Insta360 X3 is a brilliant 360-degree camera. It’s compact, lightweight, and robust. You can use it with a selfie stick or attach it to your helmet for POV footage. And it gives you unique media that’s sure to turn some heads.
With two wide-angle lenses, one on either side, the camera captures 360-degree images and videos. It gives you the ultimate wide-angle video, which makes helmet cam footage look fantastic.
You need to stitch the videos together using its software. But that’s easy in the Insta360 app.
With 5.7K video resolution, the video looks incredible. It’s HDR (high dynamic range) video. So the details are sharp, and the footage looks clean and clear. The quality is also helped by its 30-fps frame rate.
You also have single-lens mode for standard video recording. You don’t get 5.7K, but the 4K footage still looks fantastic. And you still get the 30-fps frame rate.
A bumpy ride is no problem for the X3. The built-in FlowState image stabilization keeps your footage smooth and shake-free. The camera also has a 360 horizon lock to keep your footage steady when you turn this way and that.
Insta360 claims that the X3 has two 48 MP sensors. This resolution is similar to a full-frame mirrorless camera. The images are staggering for an action camera. But are they 48 MP good?
The X3 does give you gorgeous 8K time-lapse videos. And you can shoot incredible videos with a third-person perspective. You can shoot with a selfie stick, and the camera automatically removes it from the scene! This gives a magic floating-camera effect.
With 360-degree shooting, the Insta360 X3 might sound like a gimmick camera. But it genuinely delivers incredible results. It’s also waterproof and robust, so it’s tough enough for life on a biker’s helmet.
4. GoPro Hero 11 Black Mini
| Brand |
Brand
GoPro
|
| Dimensions |
Dimensions
2 x 1.5 x 1.9 inches / 5.2 x 3.8 x 5 cm
|
| Weight |
Weight
1.3 lb / 133 g
|
| Image Resolution |
Image Resolution
24.7 MP
|
| Video Resolution |
Video Resolution
5.3K
|
| Max Frame Rate |
Max Frame Rate
60 fps at 5.3K
|
| Stabilization |
Stabilization
HyperSmooth 5.0
|
| Other Key Features |
Other Key Features
Dual-mounting fingers, waterproof (33 ft / 10 m), 8x slow-mo videos
|
| Best For |
Best For
Anyone looking for a cheaper, compact, stripped-down GoPro camera
|
The GoPro Hero 11 Black Mini is like the standard Hero 11 above. You still get fabulous media. But this model is more compact and has fewer features. And this stripped-down version makes an excellent helmet camera.
Just like its larger relative, the Hero 11 Mini is waterproof. You can use it in torrential rain. And you can even use it underwater down to depths of 33 ft (10 m). It’s also shockproof! So it can withstand a knock or two.
There’s no compromise when it comes to video features. You can record incredible action footage with a 5.3K video resolution. And you even get a super-smooth 60-fps frame rate. It also gives you slow-motion video options, allowing 8x slow-mo recording at 2.7K.
There’s no still camera in the 11 Mini. But you can use single frames from video footage as still images. If you pull frames from 5.3K footage, you get fantastic 24.7 MP photos.
The Hero 11 Mini also has GoPro’s HyperSmooth 5.0 stabilization. It keeps your footage steady even on the rockiest of trails. And it also has the horizon lock for even more stability when filming.
There’s no front display screen like on the standard Hero 11. But the Mini is Wi-Fi connected. So you can transfer photos and videos quickly and easily. You can then use the Quik app to edit and polish your GoPro videos and images.
The GoPro Hero 11 Mini is undoubtedly one of the best helmet cameras. It doesn’t have all the features of the larger Hero 11. But it’s a stripped-down version that makes the perfect robust helmet camera for bikers, skiers, or rock climbers.
5. DJI Osmo Action 3
| Brand |
Brand
DJI
|
| Dimensions |
Dimensions
3 x 1.7 x 1.2 inches / 7.5 x 4.4 x 3.2 cm
|
| Weight |
Weight
0.3 lb / 145 g
|
| Image Resolution |
Image Resolution
12 MP
|
| Video Resolution |
Video Resolution
4K
|
| Max Frame Rate |
Max Frame Rate
120 fps at 4K
|
| Stabilization |
Stabilization
RockSteady 3.0
|
| Other Key Features |
Other Key Features
Excellent slow-motion options, waterproof (52 ft / 16 m), dual touchscreens
|
| Best For |
Best For
Slow-motion videos and filming in tough conditions
|
The DJI Osmo Action is a brilliant alternative to the GoPro. It’s a compact action camera you can use as a helmet cam. And as well as being tough and durable, it delivers excellent video media.
It isn’t the best option for photos. The sensor only gives you 12 MP images. But the video specifications are terrific.
You can record standard-speed videos in glorious 4K. And you can shoot at this resolution with a 60-fps frame rate. You can even push it to 120 fps for 4K slow-motion videos. But these do have a 16:9 rather than 4:2 aspect ratio.
The camera does produce large media files when shooting in 4K. And if your external hard drive is filling up too fast, you can record in 2.7K. The footage still looks fantastic. And you can shoot with the same range of frame rates.
If you drop down to Full HD resolution, you can even shoot with a higher 240-fps frame rate. This gives you 8x super-slow-motion footage. And it’s ideal for extreme sports.
This helmet cam is also tough enough for any extreme sports adventure. It’s waterproof without a case down to 52 ft (16 m). And you can even use it in freezing temperatures. It can still operate in icy conditions down to -20 C. That makes it an ideal camera for skiers and snowboarders.
The built-in RockSteady 3.0 stabilization keeps your videos looking smooth. And the HorizonSteady feature keeps the video level even when you’re swerving and twisting.
The DJI Osmo Action 3 is s a robust and reliable action camera. It comes in different combo packs, with ones for skiing, biking, or diving! It’. And it’s one of the best if you want slow-motion footage from your helmet camera.
6. Insta360 Go 3
| Brand |
Brand
Insta360
|
| Dimensions |
Dimensions
2.1 x 1 x 0.9 inches / 5.4 x 2.5 x 2.3 cm
|
| Weight |
Weight
0.2 lb / 96 g
|
| Image Resolution |
Image Resolution
25 MP
|
| Video Resolution |
Video Resolution
2.7K
|
| Max Frame Rate |
Max Frame Rate
30 fps at 2.7K
|
| Stabilization |
Stabilization
FlowState stabilization
|
| Other Key Features |
Other Key Features
Magnetic mounting, waterproof (16 ft / 5 m), flip touchscreen
|
| Best For |
Best For
Those looking for an ultra-compact helmet camera
|
The Insta360 GO 3 is the smallest action camera on our list. It’s small and light when the camera is in its holding unit. But you can take it out and use it independently. And the camera (Action Pod) alone weighs only 1.2 ounces (35 g)!
The full unit and the action pod can be mounted magnetically. You have to use the mount that comes with the camera. But this makes it easy to attach and remove. The magnets also hold the camera securely in position.
You can shoot 25 MP HDR photos. And you can shoot in various aspect ratios to create images that suit the platform you want to use. You can even shoot images with a vertical smartphone format, which is ideal for social media.
But the video features are where the GO 3 excels. You can record with a lovely 2.7K resolution. This isn’t as impressive as 4K. But it’s better than Full HD footage. And you’ll be impressed that a camera this size can produce that kind of video quality.
You get a max 30-fps frame rate for smooth helmet footage with 2.7K video. Or you can slow it down to 24- and 25-fps standard frame rates good for speech and slight action blur. If you want to speed the frame rate up, switch to Full HD video mode for a 120-fps slow-motion mode.
The FlowState stabilization helps keep the footage looking smooth, no matter how rough the terrain is. And the GO 3 action pod has built-in speakers for sound recording.
Despite its small size, you can use the action pod as an underwater camera. It only works down to 16 ft (5 m). But you can attach it to your goggles when you go snorkeling! The main screen unit is only splashproof, though. So you can take it to the shore but not into the water.
The Insta360 GO 3 is the most compact helmet camera on the market. The lack of 4K might put some people off it. But it’s so small and convenient that it’s well worth considering. It’s also rugged enough for wet journeys on your helmet.
7. INNOVV H5 Motorcycle Helmet Camera
| Brand |
Brand
INNOVV
|
| Dimensions |
Dimensions
4.3 x 2 x 1 inches/ 11 x 5.4 x 2.5 cm
|
| Weight |
Weight
0.3 lb / 136 g
|
| Image Resolution |
Image Resolution
NA
|
| Video Resolution |
Video Resolution
4K
|
| Max Frame Rate |
Max Frame Rate
30 fps at 4K
|
| Stabilization |
Stabilization
Electronic image stabilization
|
| Other Key Features |
Other Key Features
Helmet mount, IP65 water-resistant, 5-hour battery life
|
| Best For |
Best For
Motorcyclists
|
The INNOVV H5 helmet cam is a specialist camera for motorcyclists. It doesn’t have a wide range of media features like the GoPro or Insta360 X3. But it’s a dedicated motorcycle helmet camera that shoots excellent videos.
The camera comes with a helmet mount for motorcycle helmets. And you can either mount it on the side or on top of your helmet. This helps you create personalized POV bike footage.
There’s no still camera for photography. But this helmet camera shoots video with a glorious 4K resolution. And the 30-fps frame rate makes the footage look smooth when you play it back.
The electronic image stabilization counteracts shakes and vibrations during recording. You might not always have the smoothest roads to ride on. So the stabilization helps keeps the video looking steady.
With a five-hour battery life, you can ride and ride without missing sections of your journey. You do need to buy a microSD card separately. But it can take anything up to a 512 GB microSD card. This can store up to 12 hours of 4K ride-along footage!
Plus, you don’t need to worry about riding in bad weather. The INNOVV H5 motorcycle helmet camera is IP65 weather-resistant. So you can keep recording in the wettest of weather.
8. Sena 50C Motorcycle Communication and Camera System
| Brand |
Brand
Sena 50C
|
| Dimensions |
Dimensions
3.7 x 2.3 x 1 inches / 9.5 x 5.9 x 2.5 cm
|
| Weight |
Weight
XXX
|
| Image Resolution |
Image Resolution
12 MP
|
| Video Resolution |
Video Resolution
4K
|
| Max Frame Rate |
Max Frame Rate
30 fps at 4K
|
| Stabilization |
Stabilization
Electronic image stabilization
|
| Other Key Features |
Other Key Features
Bluetooth connectivity, Mesh intercom, time-lapse and burst mode
|
| Best For |
Best For
Motorcyclists looking for a video and communication unit
|
The Sena 50C camera system lets you communicate with other bikers and record POV videos! It’s a two-in-one system that’s perfect for when you’re riding in a convoy with your fellow bikers.
You can record with sharp and clear 4K video resolution. And you get a nice 30-fps frame rate in full resolution. Or you get electronic image stabilization when shooting in Full HD (1080p). And you also get a faster 60 fps option at this lesser resolution.
The camera can also take 12 MP stills. The image resolution isn’t groundbreaking. But the quality is similar to an iPhone camera. You also get time-lapse and burst camera modes for more creative media.
With its Bluetooth connection and Mesh intercom, you can communicate with other bikers. Of course, they have to be using the same Sena 50C headset. But you can maintain verbal communication while traveling in a convoy.
The Mesh intercom can accommodate 24 riders in one group. And you can stay connected with up to 1.2 miles (2 km) between you. So you don’t have to stay bunched together on the road.
The Sena 50C motorcycle communication and camera system is the best option if you travel with other bikers. It’s not really worth it if you’re a lone wolf on the road. But the communication tech makes it ideal for biker groups who want to record their journey.
FAQs About the Best Helmet Cameras
To help you find the best helmet cam, we’ve answered frequently asked questions on the subject.
Do GoPros Make Good Helmet Cameras?
The answer is yes. GoPros are the kings of action cameras and make good helmet cameras.
The GoPro Hero 11 is their best action camera to date. It records incredible 5.7K video footage and takes 27 MP photos. But its durability and stabilization make it the perfect helmet camera.
It’s completely waterproof. So you don’t need to worry about using it in the rain. And the HyperSmooth stabilization removes shakes and vibrations from the video. So the footage is always smooth. Plus, the horizon lock keeps the video on a level plane.
The GoPro Hero 11 Mini is another fantastic helmet camera. It’s smaller than the standard Hero 11. And it’s missing a few of the advanced features. But it’s still durable and delivers phenomenal helmet cam video.
Which Is the Most Affordable Helmet Camera?
The Akaso EK7000 is the best-value helmet camera on our list. The low cost does mean the camera is missing a few useful features. Image stabilization is the biggest omission. But it still gives you lovely POV footage.
It isn’t as robust as the GoPro. The camera itself isn’t waterproof. But it does come with a protective waterproof case. And the case also fits onto the mount. So you can attach that to your helmet.
The EK7000 delivers 4K videos with a 30 fps frame rate. And it has good options for stills photography. It’s a well-rounded action camera that’s a fraction of the price of a GoPro camera.
What Is the Best Helmet Camera for Motorbikes?
The INNOVV H5 is the best helmet camera for motorbikes. It comes with a helmet mount you can position on the side or top. And it’s IP65 weather-resistant. So you can record when riding in the rain.
You can’t take still photos. But you get sharp 4K video footage at 30 fps. And the best video options are available when recording in Full HD. You get a faster 60 fps frame rate. Plus, you can activate the electronic image stabilization.
The Sena 50C is another brilliant option for motorcyclists. This camera also doubles as a communication unit, allowing you to keep in touch with fellow bikers. It’s the best option if you like to ride your motorbike with your friends.
Conclusion: The Best Helmet Camera
The best helmet cameras give you exhilarating POV footage. Whether on a mountain bike or motorbike, a helmet camera gives you a rider’s-eye view of the action. You can share the videos on social media. Or you can create epic video travel logs of long journeys.
The GoPro Hero 11 Black is the best helmet camera. It’s an action camera with incredible video and media features. And it’s perfectly geared for the tough life of a helmet camera. It’s waterproof, durable, and has award-winning video stabilization!
