When it comes to buying the best camera for paintball, you have to figure out what your primary goal is for the camera. For example, are you only interested in recording the game, or are you interested in taking photos?
If you want to record the game, you need an action camera that records high-quality videos. On the other hand, if you intend to take only photos, then a photo camera will work best for you.
So, if you’re looking for an action camera to capture the excitement of the game, you’re in the right place. Choosing the best one from thousands of options can be tricky, but we did our best to narrow them down and compiled a list of the top 10 paintball action cameras.
A Quick Comparison Chart of Top Paintball Cameras
Best Overall GoPro HERO 9 Action Camera |
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Compact Option DJI Osmo Action Camera |
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Budget Friendly AKASO EK7000 Action Camera |
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10 Best Cameras For Paintball – Reviews
We will discuss every product’s basic features, pros, and cons here. So that, it will be the ultimate guideline for you. No more ado, let’s get started one by one.
Best Overall: GoPro HERO9 Waterproof Action Camera
It’s no surprise that GoPro is the top camera for paintball. They have been making the most popular action cameras on the market for quite some time now.
The GoPro HERO9 has everything you need to record all the actions of paintball games. It has up to 5k video resolution so that you can record all the activities in high quality.
Moreover, it has an ultra-wide field of view (155°) and can capture shots in low-light conditions. It has a front display and a rear touchscreen to operate this device with one hand. In addition, with its touch zoom, you can easily zoom in and out of the action.
This unit is waterproof and dustproof so that you can take it on your next paintball trip without any problems. Moreover, it has impressive battery life. It can last for 2 hours when recording video and photos simultaneously.
It also comes with a cable and charger for your smartphone, so you’ll be able to charge it whenever you need to.
GoPro HERO9 also has built-in WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity for live streaming to your smartphone or tablet. It also contains cloud storage to save your videos and photos on the cloud and access them anytime you want.
Technical Specifications
Model Name | HERO 9 Black |
Colour | Black |
Optical Sensor Resolution | 20 megapixels |
Video Capture Resolution | 4K |
Image Capture Speed | 30 fps |
Image Stabilization | Yes |
Connectivity Technology | Bluetooth |
Optical Zoom | 1 |
Item Dimensions | 9.08 x 5.42 x 3.25 inches |
Item Weight | 11.2 ounces |
Special Feature | Waterproof, Time Lapse |
Pros
- Crystal clear video resolution
- Ultra-wide field of view
- Waterproof and dustproof
- Front display and rear touchscreen
Cons
- Pricey compared to other action cameras in the market
Best in Budget: AKASO Paintball Action Camera
AKASO EK7000 Action Camera is a top-notch gadget for action sports, especially paintball. Moreover, it comes at a very reasonable price and provides all the essential tools to record action sports videos without extra costs.
This unit shoot videos at a resolution of 4K/30 frames per second. In addition, it comes with a powerful 16-megapixel sensor, which can capture more details from the game.
Its 170° wide-angle lens makes it ideal for recording any sports game or event. With such an ultra-wide field of view, it covers almost the whole field area so that you can see everywhere.
It’s compact in size and lightweight. It can easily be mounted on any paintball marker, helmet, or other camera-mountable accessories. And its compact size also makes it easy to carry around while traveling with your friends.
This device is waterproof up to 30 meters, and it can survive in freezing weather. One of the best parts of this item is that it comes with an underwater case. So, you can wear it in the water or put it on ice without any worries.
This is a remote control camera. You can easily switch between photo and video modes by pressing a button on the remote. Unfortunately, the remote isn’t waterproof.
As a part of the deal, it comes with two rechargeable 1050mAh batteries. Each battery has a 75-90 minutes video recording backup even if you shoot 4K videos.
While shooting video, it can withstand harsh weather conditions, such as rain, snow, and dust storms. However, the downside of this unit is its app. Sometimes the app malfunction repeatedly, which is very irritating.
Technical Specifications
Model Name | EK700 |
Colour | Black |
Optical Sensor Resolution | 16 megapixels |
Video Capture Resolution | 4K |
Image Capture Speed | 60 fps |
Image Stabilization | Yes |
Connectivity Technology | Built-in WiFi (10m / 30ft range) & HMDI |
Optical Zoom | 1 |
Item Dimensions | 0.9 x 2 x 1.5 inches |
Item Weight | 12 ounces |
Special Feature | Waterproof, Time Lapse |
Pros
- Great video quality
- Waterproof up to 30 meters
- Can withstand harsh weather conditions
- It comes with a USB port
Cons
- Poor app
Compact Size: DJI Paintball Mask Camera
The DJI Osmo Action is another popular action camera. With all its features, it is no wonder why the Osmo Action is one of the best paintball cameras. It has 4K video resolution, making it perfect for capturing photos and videos in high quality.
The Osmo Action also has a wide-angle lens that gives you a 145° field of view. This makes it easy to capture shots from different angles at once. In addition, it has an 8x slow-motion feature that allows you to capture a moment in slow-motion.
It has two front and rear screens where the front screen lets you frame yourself. On the other hand, the bright rear screen can help you get great-looking photos and videos in low-light conditions.
The screen is touch-sensitive, making it easy to control the camera and change settings. It’s pretty compact, so you can quickly fix it with your mask. Even though it is a small action camera, it is still waterproof and dustproof.
The battery life is short, but it will easily go for a one-hour 4k video recording. If you want longer recording time in a single charge, buying an extra battery could be a good solution. It takes only 90 minutes to charge fully.
Technical Specifications
Model Name | DJI Osmo Action |
Optical Sensor Resolution | 12 megapixels |
Video Capture Resolution | 4K |
Image Capture Speed | 240 fps |
Image Stabilization | Yes |
Connectivity Technology | USB |
Optical Zoom | 0.01 |
Item Dimensions | 2.56 x 1.65 x 1.38 inches |
Item Weight | 4.4 ounces |
Special Feature | Waterproof, Time Lapse |
Pros
- 4K video resolution
- Wide field of view
- Compact design
- Waterproof and dustproof
Cons
- Limited battery life
Dragon Touch 4k Camera for Paintball
The Dragon Touch 4K is one of the most popular cameras for paintball on the market today and for a good reason. It has everything you need to take professional-quality videos of sports on the go!
This unit is perfect for the beginner or intermediate paintball players who want to get started recording their games without spending too much money on equipment.
This is a 16mp camera that allows you to record videos in 4k resolutions. Also, it has 2k and 1080p video resolutions. It features a zoom range from 1.0X to 4.0X and a 170° wide-angle lens.
This gadget has a 2-inch screen that allows you to switch between video, photos, and settings easily. In addition, it has a waterproof design that will enable you to take your camera into the water without worrying about damage or losing footage.
This device also comes with a remote to control the camera without having to touch it. This is great if you want to get a different angle on the action while taking photos or recording video.
This unit comes with two rechargeable 1050mAh batteries. Each battery backs up for 90 minutes while recording videos in 1080p and 60 minutes for 4k videos. But the batteries take a longer time to charge.
Overall, the Dragon Touch 4K has many great features at this price point. So, if you’re looking to record the game in high quality without breaking your bank account, then this could be a good option for you.
Technical Specifications
Model Name | Vision 3 |
Optical Sensor Resolution | 16 megapixels |
Video Capture Resolution | 4K |
Image Capture Speed | 60 fps |
Image Stabilization | No |
Connectivity Technology | Wi-Fi |
Optical Zoom | 4 |
Item Dimensions | 2.36 x 1.18 x 1.97 inches |
Item Weight | 5.3 ounces |
Special Feature | Waterproof, Time Lapse |
Pros
- 4k video resolution
- Small and lightweight
- Includes remote control
- Reasonable price tag
Cons
- Batteries take a long time to charge
- The remote control isn’t waterproof
GoPro HERO6 for Paintball
The GoPro HERO 6 Black comes with many cool features that make it an ideal choice for a professional paintball player! For instance- it has a wide-angle lens that lets you capture everything going on around you. Also, you can capture solid gameplay footage from multiple angles at once.
The HERO6 Black also comes with a built-in voice control mode that allows you to command your camera, such as “GoPro shoot burst or GoPro start recording”. This feature can be helpful when you want to start recording while playing paintball.
With its 4K and 1080p video resolution, it will capture every game’s detail. Also, this unit comes with a touch zoom feature that can help you get closer to the action when needed.
The video quality is perfect for sharing on social media sites like YouTube and Facebook and sharing with friends on paintball forums and chat rooms via text message or email.
The HERO6 Black has a built-in touchscreen that allows you to take photos while recording. In addition, it is waterproof down to 33 feet (10 meters), so it can withstand anything your sports throws at it without any problems.
The only downside of this fantastic action camera is that the voice controls can sometimes be a little unreliable. However, if you’re looking for an action camera that can withstand harsh conditions, then this would be a great choice for you!
Technical Specifications
Model Name | GoPro Hero6 |
Optical Sensor Resolution | 12 megapixels |
Video Capture Resolution | 4K |
Image Capture Speed | 30 fps |
Image Stabilization | yes |
Connectivity Technology | Wi-Fi |
Optical Zoom | 1 |
Item Dimensions | 16.6 x 2.5 x 9.8 inches |
Item Weight | 0.96 ounces |
Special Feature | Fragrance-Free |
Pros
- 4K video resolution
- A wide-angle lens and an ultra-wide field of view
- Waterproof down to 33 feet (10 meters)
- Built-in voice control mode
Cons
- Voice controls can be a little unreliable sometimes
AKASO Brave 4 Paintball Helmet Camera
AKASO Brave 4 is much more advanced and updated than the previous models. Moreover, it comes with many advanced features at a very affordable price range. This camera will surely satisfy your needs as a paintball photographer/videographer with these features.
AKASO Brave 4 is equipped with two sensors: one for image stabilization and another for electronic image stabilization (EIS). This feature helps reduce blurriness and shake when you shoot video in low-light conditions.
It’s also equipped with an ultra-sensitive 20MP CMOS sensor that enables you to capture high-resolution photos and videos in low light conditions. In addition, it has various video resolutions- 4K/24fps, 2K/30fps, and 1080P/60fps.
The best part of this device is its four view angles- 170°, 140°, 110°, and 70°. You can use them according to your needs so nothing will go out of sight of your camera.
It has a 2-inch IPS screen with an intuitive user interface, which is easy to use. You can customize the settings or adjust its view angle settings. Also, it comes with remote control, which is very useful to operate the camera remotely.
WiFi connectivity makes it easier to transfer videos and photos on your smartphone or tablet. The WiFi signal ranges up to 10 meters. In addition, it has an HDMI port that allows you to connect your camera with television.
AKASO Brave 4 is waterproof and can operate in water depths of up to 30 meters. Ensure that your camera is inside the waterproof case and it’s closed accordingly.
This unit comes with two rechargeable 1050mAh batteries. Each battery backs up for around 60 minutes of 4k video recording. However, the timing could vary because many users received defective and poor batteries.
Technical Specifications
Model Name | Brave 4 |
Optical Sensor Resolution | 20 megapixels |
Video Capture Resolution | 4K |
Image Capture Speed | 60 fps |
Image Stabilization | Yes |
Connectivity Technology | HDMI |
Optical Zoom | 5 |
Item Dimensions | 2.32 x 1.57 x 0.91 inches |
Item Weight | 5.6 ounces |
Special Feature | Anti-shaking, Diving mode |
Pros:
- High-quality video and photos
- Four view angle options
- Waterproof
- Easy to use
Cons:
- Poor battery timing and quality
- The remote isn’t waterproof
Apexcam 4K Action Camera
Apexcam is a small camera with a sleek and stylish design that can fit your pocket or purse for easy access. You can install it anywhere you want, like- helmet, mask, or rifle.
This unit comes with varios vidio recording resolutions- 4K / 30FPS, 2.7K / 30FPS, 1080P / 60FPS, 1080P / 30FPS, 720P / 60FPS and 720P / 120FPS. Also, the 170° super wide-angle lens ensures that you can capture all the action that is happening around you.
The 4K video resolution captures clear images and footage with no blur or distortion whatsoever. So you don’t have to worry about having slow frame rate videos when you’re recording your game.
It comes with a WiFi function that allows you to connect to your smartphone or tablet’s app to view videos easily. Download the Apexcam app on your smartphone or tablet, and you’re ready to go.
It has a 2″ LCD screen to preview your video footage and check the shooting angle. It also has a built-in microphone that is capable of recording audio. In addition, it comes with a remote control that allows you to switch between photo, video, and stills modes.
This unit comes with two rechargeable 1050mAh batteries and a battery charger. You can charge two batteries at the same time with the provided charger. Unfortunately, the battery life is limited compared to many other cameras like GoPro.
The device has a waterproof design that allows for use in water and freezing temperatures. This means that you can use it in harsh weather conditions without any worries.
Technical Specifications
Model Name | M80 Air |
Optical Sensor Resolution | 20 megapixels |
Video Capture Resolution | 4K |
Image Capture Speed | 120 fps |
Image Stabilization | Yes |
Connectivity Technology | HDMI |
Optical Zoom | 5 |
Item Dimensions | 7.32 x 5.31 x 3.39 inches |
Item Weight | 15.2 ounces |
Special Feature | Wireless, Time-lapse, Usb, Real-time |
Pros
- Various shooting resolutions
- Easy to set up and use
- Cheap to buy
- Wide-angle lens
Cons
- Limited battery life
- Not durable enough
TACTACAM Paintball Gun Camera
This camera is specially designed to use with a bow, gun, or scope. Also, it is straightforward to use and is a good choice for beginners. You can start recording with a single push on the button.
It has a 1080p/30FPS video resolution which can record high-quality footage. Moreover, it’s small enough to carry around easily and can be mounted on any bow or gun for enhanced footage.
This unit comes with a free app that allows you to view your recorded videos on your phone or tablet via a WiFi connection. You will also be able to share them on social media or messaging apps instantly after recording them.
Furthermore, you can turn off the video recording function when you are not in the game to avoid unnecessary data storage in your memory card. Also, you can turn it on again from the app when necessary.
With its 3x zoom feature, you can capture close-ups of your target, and they will look clear and sharp. Moreover, it has a built-in microphone that captures all sounds in the game.
Though it doesn’t have rich features like the above-discussed 4k cameras, it can record your paintball game without any hassle.
Technical Specifications
Model Name | TACTACAM Solo |
Video Capture Resolution | 1080p |
Image Capture Speed | 30 fps |
Image Stabilization | No |
Connectivity Technology | Wi-Fi, USB |
Optical Zoom | 3 |
Item Dimensions | 9 x 6.5 x 5 inches |
Item Weight | 1.46 ounces |
Special Feature | Weatherproof |
Pros
- Small and easy to carry around
- Simple to use
- The app has full access to the settings
Cons:
- The quality of videos is not as good as 4k cameras
- Expensive
ION Paintball Barrel Camera
The iON CamoCam features a camouflage design and is made from high-quality materials. In addition, the iON CamoCam is waterproof, shockproof, and dustproof, so you can use it in any weather conditions.
This camera captures HD videos at 1080p/30fps or 720p/60fps resolution. It’s also capable of taking 14MP photos in high-quality mode. Aside from that, it has a built-in microphone that allows you to record the game with high-quality sound.
This device is equipped with a wide-angle lens that will capture every single moment during the game. So you’ll be able to see everything on the field no matter where you are standing.
In addition, the camo design will help it blend in perfectly with its surroundings. So you can take photos without worrying about being found out by the opposing team. Furthermore, it comes with a high-grade aluminum sports mount that allows you to mount it on any of your paintball guns.
This unit has a waterproof design, and you can use it up to 30 feet deep underwater without causing any problems or damage to the device itself. This is great for those who like more exciting games such as paintball and scuba diving alike!
You can easily link this camera to your phone via a WiFi connection so that you can access the photos and videos immediately. Also, you will get 10 GB of free cloud storage.
The only downside is that the battery capacity could have been better, but it’s still a worthy purchase that can take high-quality photos and videos.
Technical Specifications
Model Name | CAMOCAM |
Optical Sensor Resolution | 14 megapixels |
Video Capture Resolution | 1080p |
Image Capture Speed | 30 fps |
Image Stabilization | No |
Connectivity Technology | Wi-Fi |
Optical Zoom | 4.6 |
Item Dimensions | 5.52 x 8.51 x 3.19 inches |
Item Weight | 1.3 pounds |
Special Feature | Waterproof |
Pros
- Very durable design (waterproof)
- Easy-to-use interface
- Affordable price tag
Cons
- Battery life could have been better
RunCam Paintball Scope Cam
The RunCam Scope Cam 2 Airsoft Camera is a new and improved version of the previous Scopecam Lite. It is one of the best Runcam cameras available in the market today.
It comes with various features that enhance its performance as a paintball action cam. First of all, it records high-quality video at 1080p/60 frames per second resolution so that you can capture all your games in high quality.
This lightweight camera is easy to carry around, so you can take it anywhere you want to record your games. In addition, it has a built-in rechargeable 1400mAh battery that provides up to 90 minutes of continuous recording.
It is straightforward to use, so you don’t need any technical knowledge or experience to operate it. Moreover, the built-in WiFi allows you to connect your camera with your smartphone. It is compatible with both Android and iOS operating systems, so you can control the camera from your phone or tablet.
The biggest downside of this item is its price. It is a bit costly compared to many other 4k action cameras. But if you’re looking for a paintball scope camera that is easy to use, this could be a good option.
Technical Specifications
Model Name | Scope Cam 2 40mm Lens |
Video Capture Resolution | 1080p |
Image Capture Speed | 60 fps |
Image Stabilization | No |
Optical Zoom | Fixed |
Item Dimensions | 4.41 x 1.26 x 1.42 inches |
Item Weight | 4.8 ounces |
Special Feature | Waterproof |
Pros
- Lightweight and compact design
- Easy to use
Cons
- Expensive
Best Paintball Action Camera Buying Guide
Of course, choosing the best paintball camera can be a little tricky, but it’s not that difficult. You just need to know the right factors to consider while buying a new camera. You should consider many factors and some of the most crucial factors are-
1. What is the quality of videos and photos?
2. Is the camera waterproof?
3. Does it have a wide-angle lens?
4. Does it have an extended battery life?
5. Does it have an image stabilization feature?
6. What is the price?
7. Does it come with additional accessories?
8. Will it fit with your mask or paintball helmet?
9. Is it compatible with other popular paintball helmets and masks like FOX, GOG, and so on…
10. Is there a warranty provided by the manufacturer?
These factors are essential, but you can skip some of them to match your requirements. But there are some factors you must consider so, let’s go into detail about what are they.
Video Quality
The first thing that you need to consider is the video quality that you want to use in your paintball videos. For instance, if you are only interested in recording some great action shots, a camera with 1080p resolution is enough. But if you want to record some fantastic slow-motion videos, then a 4K camera is needed.
Wide-angle Lens
A wide-angle lens can be handy when you want to capture some great action shots. It helps you get the whole game field in your photos and videos. It is also helpful to capture some great action shots of your paintball teammates.
For example, if you are playing paintball with your friends and standing in one position, then a wide-angle lens will help you get the whole action in one shot.
Good Battery Life
Another factor you should consider is the battery life of your new action camera. This is a crucial aspect that will affect how long your recording will last without charging or recharging your batteries.
Sometimes it would be annoying if your camera runs out of power while recording a video. So, if you plan to use your camera for long periods, it’s best to get an action camera with longer battery life.
Image Stabilization
A feature that you must look for in a paintball action camera is image stabilization features. This valuable feature helps you capture some awesome slow-motion videos of your paintball games.
If you are not good at recording slow-motion videos, this feature will save you a lot of trouble. It will help stabilize all the movement in your videos so that everyone can easily watch them.
Image Stabilization can make your video look like a movie rather than just some boring footage from your action camera.
Waterproof and Dustproof Capabilities
If you plan to use your camera in any weather conditions, make sure that it’s waterproof and dustproof. This is an essential factor that should be considered while buying a camera. If you want to use it with your paintball helmet, it’s better to be waterproof.
Price of the Camera
This is another crucial factor you should consider. You should not expect to get the best quality cameras for low prices. So, if you are planning on purchasing a new action camera, you should keep in mind the cost of your preferred model.
If you want to buy an action camera under $100, it’s better if it comes with a wide-angle lens and long battery life. But, if you are willing to spend more than $100, it’s better to go for a higher-end model.
Compatibility with Helmets and Masks
Most of the cameras have their compatibility with popular paintball helmets like FOX, GOG, etc. So, if you want to use it along with your paintball helmet, you should check your camera’s compatibility with the helmet. The same goes for the mask.
Additional Accessories
Many action cameras come with additional accessories like a tripod and camera bag, mounting tools, waterproof housing, and many more. So, before taking the final shot check the accessories list you will get as a part of the deal. You can also consider buying an extra battery for your camera if you want to record longer videos.
Apart from these factors, there are also other things to look for in a paintball camera. So, you need to learn your requirements first. Otherwise, you may end up with the wrong product.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between HD and 4K?
HD stands for High Definition, whereas 4K stands for Ultra High Definition. The 4K is considered a higher resolution than HD because it has a much sharper and crisper picture than the former.
The video resolutions of 1920 x 1080 pixels are known as HD, whereas 3840 x 2160 pixel resolutions are referred to as 4k.
What is the best resolution to record paintball games?
You should record your paintball games at a resolution of at least 1080p. Recording at a resolution of 720p will result in blurry and poor-quality videos. If your camera has more than one video recording resolution, use the higher resolution to ensure that your videos are of high quality.
How can I improve my video recording quality?
You can improve your video recording quality by using the most suitable camera settings. Adjust them according to your needs and preferences to improve your shooting technique. In addition, you can also use a tripod so that you don’t shake when shooting.
How do I know if my action camera is waterproof or dustproof?
There are various ways to check your camera’s waterproof and dustproof capabilities. Sometimes you can even try testing it by submerging it in water. If it’s genuinely waterproof, there won’t be any leaks while shooting video or photos.
Waterproof and dustproof cameras usually have rubber seals around the lens and body. These seals are there to prevent water from entering the camera. However, if these seals do not seal properly, then water may enter inside the cameras and cause damage to the internal components.
What attachments are best for my paintball camera?
You can get different attachments for your camera depending on your needs. For example, if you will use your camera for shooting videos of paintball games, you need to have camera mounts for stability. Apart from these, it would help if you had a waterproof casing to protect it from dust, rain, and snow. Having a few spare batteries is always a great thing.
What is the difference between an action camera and a camcorder?
Action cameras are smaller in size than camcorders. Action cameras are designed to take underwater videos or remotely capture videos from different places. These cameras are also ideal for water sports like wakeboarding and surfing.
Camcorders are known to have a larger recording capacity than the former because they are designed to capture videos in indoor and outdoor settings.
Conclusion
We are at the end of the article. Hopefully, it was helpful for you, and by now, you know what is the best camera for paintball. In conclusion, we can say that there is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to action cameras. So, you should choose the one that suits your needs and preferences.