The first thing to consider is a camera's video resolution. 4K is a minimum requirement these days, and the best models offer more than double that resolution. The GoPro Hero11 Black, for instance, supports 5.3K. Next, take a look at the available frame rates, expressed as frames per second (fps). Some action cameras offer up to 240fps recording, whereas ultra-budget options may only offer 30fps. The latter is perfectly fine for standard playback, but the frame rate matters more when you want to slow footage down in editing to create dramatic scenes. You can slow 240fps recordings down and play them back smoothly at one-quarter speed, for instance. If you want a cinematic look, pick a camera that has a 24fps capture option; that's the same speed that most Hollywood productions use. The best action cams put fast frame rates and high pixel counts together—the GoPro Hero11 Black pushes 240fps at 2.7K, for example, better than the 1080p240 you get from the DJI Osmo Action 4. If you're more serious about video, look for a model that offers a flat video profile that grades easily. We've not yet seen Raw video support in an action cam, but you can get that feature from larger models, including the Blackmagic Pocket Cinema 6K. Some sort of stabilization is important as well, as it can help you get smooth footage without a tripod or gimbal.