The expansion of the tech world in recent years has introduced the world to some incredible innovations. For example, long gone are the days when people used to visit photography studios to get their pictures taken or developed. Instead, we’re gifted with tiny digital cameras that can be strapped to surfboards, mountain bikes, and almost every other type of outdoor sports equipment so that we can record our pursuits in real time.
To help wholesalers and retailers choose the best action cameras for their business, we’ll take a look at the market and which types of cameras they should look to stock.
Table of Contents
Action camera market analysis
Factors to consider when choosing action cameras
The best action cameras of 2023
Final thoughts
Action camera market analysis
The action camera market is valued at a massive US $3.29 billion, and experts predict it will grow by about 15.8% annually, which means it could become more than twice in the next five years. This growth is partly down to an increasing number of people looking to action cameras to take videos for their social media and short video apps. As video technologies continue to expand, so too will the action camera market.
In 2020, North America was the leader in terms of action camera sales, likely due to a mixture of higher disposable incomes and a huge fanbase for outdoor activities. This trend is gradually spreading around the world.
Factors to consider when choosing action cameras
Determining your target customers’ needs can be challenging, especially considering that new camera models are released almost daily. Therefore, it pays for wholesalers in this domain to do careful research and keep a close watch on trends, updating their stock accordingly. Some tips that may be helpful in this regard are:
Consider the camera’s purpose
Businesses must study the market before investing in various action cameras, determining the prospects of specific cameras. Are they predominantly used for shooting sports videos or to document an individual’s travel? Of course, stocking cameras that cater to a wider range of consumers is likely to be more fruitful. However, be aware that many consumers will be looking for models that feature specific functions, such as the capacity to support wide-angle lenses or picture stabilization.
Offering cameras for specific uses enhances as user’s ability to capture what they’re looking for. For instance, the Insta360 Go 3 appeals to creators who want something they can mount easily and shoot from unique angles. Meanwhile, the DJI Osmo Action 4 is valued for its ability to record crisp videos in dim light. Providing multiple options is the key to generating sales.
Check durability and waterproofing
The ideal action camera is durable and resistant to wear and tear. People who record intense action videos do not look to delicate camera equipment to do so. Instead, they need cameras that are rugged, waterproof, and weatherproof. According to Google, average monthly searches for waterproof cameras this year was 40,500. This indicates a high demand for such features, which could translate to more sales for wholesalers if they were to stock well.
A tough, durable camera can endure outdoor experiences and adventurous sports without compromising image quality. It therefore pays for businesses to understand waterproof ratings like IPX7 or IPX8, with higher ratings reflecting that the camera is better equipped to handle conditions such as underwater shots. The DJI Osmo Action 4 is a classic example of a camera with a tough build and an excellent waterproofing rating.
Check the available image stabilization and mounting tools
Image stability plays a central role when people buy action cameras. Mounting accessories and attachments are important when trying to achieve stable photos and videos. Some common action camera accessories include head mounts, chest belts, helmets, and telescoping poles; these accessories are a must-have for creators who indulge in surfing or base jumping, for example.
So, when investing in action cameras, research and discover the target market’s pain points. Look for more compatible options when a certain brand doesn’t provide the needed accessories. Remember, there is a good chance of the camera being lost or broken if they don’t have sturdy mounting tools. For example, the Insta360 Go 3 excels in placement versatility thanks to its ability to magnetically attach to all kinds of surfaces.
Examine battery life and storage
Consumers will take special care to weigh up a camera’s storage capacity and battery life before making a purchase. Considering how action cameras are for outdoor use, it’s likely that they’ll be looking for models with longer battery life. Power-saving features or removable batteries are some features that allow for extended use. In addition, you should stock compatible charging banks so that consumers can extend battery life if they wish.
Choosing the right storage limit is vital, as high-quality recordings need bigger SD cards. Most action cameras support microSD cards up to 32GB, but some premium models may also support up to 129GB or more.
Figure out the required size and shape
There are several options when it comes to the different shapes and sizes of action cameras. Square and bulkier varieties are better for chest mounts, while bullet-shaped cameras fit well onto helmets and bike handles.
Most action cameras offer a wide-angle field of view (FOV). However, experts recommend users opt for cameras that offer multiple FOVs – wide, narrow, and medium. This prevents photos from being distorted and minimizes the fish-eye effect.
Given these recommendations, it’s safe to say that lightweight and portable action cameras will likely be in higher demand than bulkier versions.
Evaluate the connectivity features
Many action cameras have built-in Wi-Fi, allowing users to operate them with a smart device and transfer data without the hassle of connecting them via cables. Make sure to look at the Wi-Fi speeds supported by the camera to determine the transfer speeds.
Bluetooth connectivity is another feature that can be used with compatible external remotes to take images or videos. This can be a great feature if the object is to shoot footage at a remote location. Voice commands can be used to control more expensive models. Some models even have advanced face detection and wake-on voice features, making focus and control much easier.
Although some of these sophisticated features aren’t necessary, they add to the user-friendliness of the camera.
The best action cameras of 2023
The best action cameras are tough, compact, and easy to use. Owing to their ruggedness, these cameras help shoot smooth video in conditions where standard cameras would quickly break. When judged by these criteria, there are three action cameras that could potentially take the crown in 2023:
- Go Pro Hero 11 Black – The GoPro HERO10 Dark is well-known for its excellent video quality, strong stabilization, and versatile features, providing a top-notch experience for action camera enthusiasts.
- SJ CAM S300 – This affordable action camera delivers solid performance without breaking the bank. Packed with features like 4K video recording, a touchscreen display, and a sturdy build, it’s a popular choice for those seeking a budget-friendly option.
- SONY RX0 II – This small camera combines durability with superb imaging. Its 1-inch sensor, impressive picture quality, and various shooting modes make it perfect for adventurous activities and creative content creation.
Final thoughts
Choosing the right action camera isn’t an easy feat. The dynamism of the market means that there are frequent fluctuations in features and consumer needs. Intensive research and the comparison of different models can help businesses make an informed choice as to which models will best suit their market.
Remember, consumers will often spend a significant amount of time researching which model they want. Hence, opting for cameras that align with individual interests and budgets is vital. If you’re looking to source, ecommerce giants like Alibaba.com feature a vast range of action cameras, helping businesses to pinpoint the most in-demand models in the market.
