Cycling is one popular choice for recreation, health training, and so on. It’s fun to ride, but if you want to record your ride’s experiences to keep track of your training or to save memory, you will need a bicycle camera.
Cycling cameras are capable of capturing the moment, filming stable video even when the ride is bumpy. Therefore, having the Best Bicycle Cameras will help you to get the most out of your ride. So let’s go with me and find out which one is for you!
Where To Mount The Bicycle Cameras?
Bicycle cameras can be mounted in several different places; each will generate a different view angle and have different pros and cons.
Helmet
One place that a cycling camera can be mounted on is a helmet. This is one of the most common mounting places since it can record what the riders see when cycling. However, it can add additional weight to the helmet, so it may be uncomfortable for you.
Handle
The second most popular place is the handlebar. It can give you a similar head-on view, though the angle may not be the best. Nevertheless, you can access and control your camera better when mounted right on the handlebar.
Chest
You can choose to strap your cycling camera right on your chest. You can record every scene right in front of you without the need to add extra weight to your bike. The angle of this mounting place is good, but it can restrict your arm movement to a certain extent.
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What To Look Into Bicycle Cameras
Design
The design of a bicycle camera should be compact, lightweight, and durable. It should be constructed to mount easily on the handlebar, helmet, or get straps on the riders. Another thing is that the camera should be waterproof and durable to work in any condition.
Battery
The battery life of a bicycle camera is an important criterion because it can decide the performance of the model. The battery in this type of camera can be separate or rechargeable, but the battery life should be at least three hours continuously per ride or charge time.
Memory
Many cycling cameras support detachable micro SD cards, but some may have internal memory built in the construction. However, it is recommended that you should get an SD card to store all your photos and videos on the ride, and 128GB cards are the best choice.
Resolution
Depending on the models, the cycling camera can capture images in different resolutions. Nevertheless, a good camera should at least be able to shoot and film in 1080HD resolution. 4K Ultra HD resolution will be better if you want high-end image quality.
Price
The price range for a bicycle camera is quite large; it can start around 50$ and go up to even thousands of dollars. However, you should choose what is more suitable for your budget, since many cheap models have as good quality as expensive ones.
What Are The Best Bicycle Cameras To Buy?
To help you get an overview of The Best Bicycle Cameras of this year, I have listed all my picks and their strongest points.
- Best Overall – AKASO EK7000 4K30FPS Action Camera
“4K Ultra HD quality, long warranty, easy to operate, waterproof, good connectivity.”
- Best Cheap Price – Lenofocus Mini Body Camera
“Small, compact, affordable camera, clip-in design, buttons for operations.”
- Best High-End – GoPro HERO 9 Camera
“Fast data transfer, two screens, stable and smooth recording, high-end price and quality.”
- Best For The Price – GoPro HERO 8 Action Camera
“Camera for vlogging, high-quality photos and video, durable design.”
- Best Action Camera – Campark 4K 20MP Action Camera
“Waterproof action camera, good battery life, wireless remote control, stable recording.”
- Best Waterproof – Insta360 ONE R Sports Action Camera
“Highly compatible with mounts, waterproof, wide-angle lens, high quality of shooting.”
- Best Lightweight – Dragon Touch 4K Action Camera
“Compact and lightweight, easy to use, Wi-Fi built-in, remote control, waterproof.”
- Best Battery Life – Crosstour Action Camera
“Long battery life, durable construction, panoramic shooting view, accessories included.”
- Best For Commuting – YI 4K Action and Sports Camera
“Large display screen, good battery time, stable and smooth recording, easy to mount on.”
- Best For Touring – GoPro HERO 7 Waterproof Camera
“Long battery life, waterproof design, touch screen included, strong and hard construction.”
- Best For Safety – GoPro MAX Traditional Camera
“Easy to mount on, waterproof case included, many modes and function included, touch screen.”
- Best With GPS – GoPro HERO 6 Digital Camera
“GPS and Wi-Fi included, touch screen, voice control, good shooting in the dark.”
“Wi-Fi built-in, waterproof, easy to control, high-quality shooting.”
“External microphone, waterproof, remote control, stable recording.”
“Easy to use, good waterproof rating, smooth capturing, color dual screen.”
Best Bicycle Cameras Comparison Chart 2021
If you are still unsure about The Best Bicycle Cameras, you can check out this comparison chart right here. In this part, it is fully provided with all of the information you need to know about your future cycling camera:
Top 15 Best Bicycle Cameras To Buy 2021
It’s time that I present to you the main part of today, the in-depth review of The Top 15 Best Bicycle Cameras in 2021. Remember that these are my experience and suggestions, so you may or may not share the same opinion with me.
Best Overall: AKASO EK7000 4K30FPS Action Camera
Pros
- It can film 4K Ultra HD video with a stable frame
- Remote control included for better access
- Long battery life for all-day ride filming
- Built-in Wi-Fi for better connection and transfer of data
- The waterproof ability for filming under rains or underwater
- Colorful and high-quality video product
Cons
- It may not be compatible with several mounts
Let’s start with my favorite choice, the AKASO EK7000 4K30FPS Action Camera, which can give me the most colorful, bright, and smooth video on my ride. This one can be mounted anywhere, but you have to mind the suitable mounts.
This camera comes with a waterproof case, so you can rest assure when cycling under the rain with it, or you even can take this one for a swim. You can choose several resolutions for your video, but it can film up to the 4K-quality video. You can also control this camera with a remote to get better control.
It is built with a Wi-Fi connection, so you can pair it up with a smartphone or tablet for data transfer. Moreover, the battery life is nothing inferior; it can continuously film for all days long.
Product Specs
| Weight | 1.4 pounds |
| Dimensions | 0.9 x 2 x 1.5 inches |
| Screen Size | 2 Inches |
Key features:
- Time Lapse Photo
- Loop Recording
- 4K 30FPS/2.7K 30FPS/1080P 60FPS Video
- 170° Wide Angle Lens
Best Cheap Price: Lenofocus Mini Body Camera
Pros
- Super small and lightweight, it can be used anywhere
- Super cheap and easy to purchase
- Simple operation with buttons for a start and stop filming
- Decent filming time for several hours
- It can be worn on the riders instead of mounted on the bike
Cons
- No display screen
This dirt-cheap Lenofocus Mini Body Camera is the basic choice for a beginner in bicycle cameras. A tiny camera can be brought everywhere and easily worn on your clothes instead of mounting it on the bike.
Even though this is compact, it has quite an impressive recording time of up to 3 hours without the need of recharging. In addition, it supports a micro SD card of 128GB at maximum and can be operated with just a few buttons.
Product Specs
| Weight | 4.6 ounces |
| Dimensions | 5.43 x 3.58 x 1.46 inches |
| Screen Size | N/A |
Key features:
- High-definition 1080P Vide0
- 560mAh rechargeable battery
- Micro SD card 8-128GB
Best High-End: GoPro HERO 9 Camera
Pros
- Included many functions to upgrade your filming
- It can be used for live streaming
- High-resolution video and photos with great colors
- Lightweight and compact to carry around
- Highly compatible with smart devices
- Long battery life for continuous filming
Cons
- A bit high price tag
- It cannot be used as a computer camera
I would like to recommend this GoPro HERO 9 Camera to anyone willing to invest in a cycling camera. This high-end model can literally do everything – time warp, slow-motion, smoothening, or stabilizing the video and photos a lot.
Of course, it is waterproof and armed with full accessories too. This one has two-screen, a front display screen, and a rear touch screen, so you can get much better control and access to the camera.
Moreover, you can use this one for live-streaming and instant upload on social media with just a medium of smartphone or tablet. Furthermore, the photos and video captured by this model are all bright, vibrant with color, and sharp; you can expect the quality on par with the price.
Product Specs
| Weight | 11.2 ounces |
| Dimensions | 9.08 x 5.42 x 3.25 inches |
| Screen Size | 2.27 Inches |
Key features:
- Fisheye Lens
- 5K Video and 20MP Photo with SuperPhoto
- HyperSmooth 3.0
- TimeWarp 3.0
- 8x Slo-Mo
- Live streaming + Webcam
Best For The Price: GoPro HERO 8 Action Camera
Pros
- Suitable for vlogging and live streaming
- Sleek streamline design and great touch and display screen
- Durable and impact-resistance construction for better use time
- High-resolution photo and video capture
- It has many functions suitable for editing video and photos
- Wide-angle camera lens for better results
Cons
- The price is not the cheapest one
The GoPro HERO 8 Action Camera is the one to go for if you don’ want to burn your wallet but still need a cycling camera at a reasonable price with good function. This one is famous among cycling vloggers for all of its qualities and features.
The stabilization, slow-motion, and time warp function work better than I expected, and the photos and video I took from this camera all are smooth and vibrant. Moreover, it is waterproof, so I used to take it for filming and live streaming underwater several times.
This one has a wider lens angle, so the end product has a unique feel to it. Either for live streaming or vlogging, this one is the best in the range.
Product Specs
| Weight | 1 pound |
| Dimensions | 9 x 4.25 x 2.75 inches |
| Screen Size | 1.95 Inches |
Key features:
- TimeWarp 2.0, Time Lapse, and Night Lapse Modes
- Live streaming at 1080p and Webcam Mode
- Status Only Front Screen and Reach Touch Screen
- HyperSmooth 2.0
- Streamlined Design
Best Action Camera: Campark 4K 20MP Action Camera
Pros
- High-quality photo and video capturing
- Stabilization function included for the best image quality
- Wireless wrist remote control for better maneuvering
- Long battery life to film continuously
- The waterproof ability for underwater use
Cons
- The user guide is not really clear
In case you want to have a good action camera, you can try this Campark 4K 20MP Action Camera. I quite like the stabilization function of this one since it prevents out-of-focus and blurry images and video, leaving only the highest quality.
In addition, you can get more control with the wireless remote, so you can adjust the frame without the need to touch it. However, the user guide is quite confusing; you may have to figure out how to use the camera by yourself.
The battery life is above average; you can film more than 90 minutes at the highest quality without recharging. You can get it deep underwater or in a downpour; since this one is highly waterproof, nothing wrong will happen.
Product Specs
| Weight | 1.1 pounds |
| Dimensions | 9.65 x 4.65 x 2.83 inches |
| Screen Size | N/A |
Key features:
- External Microphone
- Waterproof Camera with Accessories Kits
- Remote Control and WIFI
- EIS Anti-Shaking Function
- 170° HD Wide-Angle Lens
Best Waterproof: Insta360 ONE R Sports Action Camera
Pros
- High waterproof rating for the best safety
- 5.7K resolution for the best frame quality
- Wide-angle lens with AI-powered algorithm to capture the best photo
- Compatible with the majority of mounts
Cons
- Not quite good-looking
The Insta360 ONE R Sports Action Camera is the one to go for when you are under the rain frequently – the camera itself has the high waterproof ability and can still maintain the best moment capturing while underwater.
The strongest point of this model is its lens – the wide-angle and stabilized lens can produce the best image quality ever. Moreover, this one has a mounting bracket to fit all the places, so carrying it with you is super easy.
Product Specs
| Weight | 1.24 pounds |
| Dimensions | 9.09 x 4.33 x 2.17 inches |
| Screen Size | N/A |
Key features:
- IPX8 waterproof
- 4K Wide Angle Lens
- 5.7K Dual Lens Stabilization
- Voice Control
Best Lightweight: Dragon Touch 4K Action Camera
Pros
- Lightweight and compact camera suitable for traveling
- Built-in Wi-Fi for file transfer and smart device connectivity
- Waterproof camera for all-weather filming
- Wrist remote control for better access
Cons
- You need to buy a separate micro SD card
If you want something that is compact and easy to carry around, you can check out this Dragon Touch 4K Action Camera. In addition, this one has a good waterproof rating, so you can be sure that you will be able to use it in all weather.
Moreover, it is Wi-Fi enabled, meaning that you can record a video and post it on YouTube right away with only one smart device as a medium. Another thing I like about this one is that it includes a remote control, so I can adjust the filming without the need to physically touch the camera.
Just like many other models, you will need to purchase an additional micro SD card. There are a lot of accessories coming in the package, so you can make it a helmet camera or handlebar camera – it’s up to your choice.
Product Specs
| Weight | 5.3 ounces |
| Dimensions | 2.36 x 1.18 x 1.97 inches |
| Screen Size | 2 Inches |
Key features:
- Built-In Wi-Fi Connection
- Free Mounting Accessories
- Time Lapse
- Slow Motion
- 4K Video
Best Battery Life: Crosstour Action Camera
Pros
- Long battery life for continuous recording
- Mounting accessories included for easy carrying
- A wide-angle lens can capture a nearly panoramic view
- Easy transfer and upload of data to other devices
- Wireless remote control to monitor the filming better
- It can be used as a compute webcam
Cons
- The price is quite high
- The camera doesn’t have a zoom function
The one that I would love to recommend for the long-lasting battery life is the Crosstour Action Camera. This model comes with a mounting kit full of accessories, so you can mount it anywhere you want.
This action camera is equipped with a rechargeable 1050mAh battery. It means that you can film your ride all day with this model and don’t have to worry about getting disrupted in the middle of the ride.
The 14MP 1080P resolution of this camera can cater to cyclists’ needs, with the end result of vibrant and smooth images. Moreover, you can use this model as a PC webcam, making the most out of it.
Product Specs
| Weight | 2.26 ounces |
| Dimensions | 2.36 x 1.65 x 0.98 inches |
| Screen Size | 2” |
Key features:
- 30 Meters Waterproof
- 2” LCD And Mounting Accessory Kits
- Built-in Wi-Fi
Best For Commuting: YI 4K Action and Sports Camera
Pros
- Good battery life for long time recording
- Stable and smooth filming suitable for commuting
- Large color screen for better control and tracking
- Easy to transfer video and photo via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
Cons
- Not supported the highest resolution available
For anyone thinking about getting a cycling camera for daily recording, you can think of this YI 4K Action and Sports Camera. This one offers decent stability, smoothness, and noise reduction, quite suitable for commuting every day.
Another good thing is that this model has long battery life, so even if the ride is for several hours, you can keep track of it comfortably. Furthermore, its design and construction are rugged and solid, promising to last for a long time.
The quality of the images produced by this camera is good; with the large color screen, you can take a peek at what is recorded easily. Data transferring and sharing are made convenient with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi too.
Product Specs
| Weight | 3.36 ounces |
| Dimensions | 2.6 x 1.7 x 1.2 inches |
| Screen Size | 2. 2” |
Key features:
- Sony IMX377 image sensor
- Intuitive touchscreen UI
- Voice control
Best For Touring: GoPro HERO 7 Waterproof Camera
Pros
- Long-lasting battery for continuous filming
- Good for a long ride with stabilization and smoothness
- Easy to control with both display and touch screens
- Waterproof and resilient construction for longer use time
Cons
- The price is not low
If you aim for good quality without caring for the price, you can check out this GoPro HERO 7 Waterproof Camera. I like how the battery can last long, and the camera has such great shock-filtering and optimizing filming, suitable for long bike rides such as touring.
There is nothing inferior with the name GoPro; the color and sharpness of the results are always the best in the range. Moreover, this one features quite many functions like slow-motion, time warp, or noise reduction, so you can shoot the view around you nicely even when in bad conditions.
Product Specs
| Weight | 4.2 Ounces |
| Dimensions | 2.4 x 1.3 x 1.8 inches |
| Screen Size | N/A |
Key features:
- HYPER SMOOTH VIDEO STABILIZATION
- Waterproof
- Intuitive Touch Screen
- Photo Timer
Best For Safety: GoPro MAX Traditional Camera
Pros
- Good features for the best quality of images
- Reliable case included protecting the camera
- It can be used for live streaming
- Various shooting and filming modes for different results
Cons
- The price is in the high-end range
Unlike the previous models of GoPro, this GoPro MAX Traditional Camera comes with a shock-reducing waterproof case for better safety. This fisheye lens camera can capture the best shots in 1440p60 and in panoramic view, so there is nothing to worry about the quality.
Moreover, this one has various shooting modes, allowing you to style your photos and videos to the fullest. The stability, noise reduction and horizontal leveling, and stereo audio are the most prominent features of this model, upgrading the user’s experience.
You can use this model for live streaming too, the smoothness and vibrant of the images will surely satisfy you. It is compatible with several different lenses of GoPro; you can choose in the range to get the most suitable results.
Product Specs
| Weight | 1.12 pounds |
| Dimensions | 10.04 x 4.8 x 3.23 inches |
| Screen Size | 2 Inches |
Key features:
- Live Streaming Stabilization
- Max TimeWarp (Spherical + Traditional) and Time Lapse Modes
- Touch Screen can be Front or Rear Facing
- Live streaming at 1080p
Best With GPS: GoPro HERO 6 Digital Camera
Pros
- GPS and Wi-Fi connection for the best navigation and data transfer
- Good for photo taking in lack of light
- Fastest data transferring speed for a better experience
- Touch screen and voice control for better adjustment
Cons
- Not the cheapest model
If you need a bit more navigation service for your bike camera, you can use this GoPro HERO 6 Digital Camera as a bike computer with GPS and Wi-Fi connection. You can track the route and your current location with this.
This one is equipped with a touch screen and voice control, so you can either use your hand or voice to control this model. The best thing is that this one is exceptional in shooting and filming in weak light conditions; even at night, the images are still clear, sharp, and true.
Product Specs
| Weight | 4.2 ounces |
| Dimensions | 1.75 x 2.44 x 1.26 inches |
| Screen Size | 2 Inches |
Key features:
- Connects to Phone via Wi-Fi + Bluetooth
- Intuitive Touch Screen
- Voice Control
- TimeWarp Video
AKASO V50X Action Camera
Pros
- Stabilization function included
- High-resolution filming and photo taking
- Long battery life for all-day riding
Cons
- No included micro SD card
The AKASO V50X Action Camera is a good choice for an affordable action bicycle camera because this one can offer you high-quality photos and videos on the go. In addition, the stability and resolution are all good; no major complaints about them.
Moreover, this model is waterproof and remotely controlled, so it would be easier for you to film even under bad weather conditions. You can connect it with smartphones or tablets through a Wi-Fi connection and transfer the data rapidly too.
Product Specs
| Weight | 1.12 pounds |
| Dimensions | 2.36 x 1.57 x 1.18 inches |
| Screen Size | 2 Inches |
Key features:
- Adjustable View Angle
- Intuitive Touch Screen
- Upgrade Series Of AKASO V50
- Electronic Image Stabilization
Victure Action Camera AC700
Pros
- Waterproof for all-weather use
- External microphone included for better sound quality
- Wi-Fi and remote control included for managing videos and photos
Cons
- This one has a non-zoom lens
Another good suggestion for a helmet camera is this Victure Action Camera AC700. Although this one does not have a zooming lens, the fixed lens can capture quite impressive videos and photos at a decent resolution. There is an external microphone to record the sound better, too.
Furthermore, the waterproof case included will help you out on rainy days. The waterproof rating is so good that it can even be used for scuba diving. Moreover, this one can be controlled remotely, so it’s quite convenient.
Product Specs
| Weight | 1.23 pounds |
| Dimensions | 2.36 x 1.65 x 0.98 inches |
| Screen Size | 2 Inches |
Key features:
- 40M Underwater Waterproof
- Electronic Image Stabilization
- Built-in Wi-Fi and Remote Control
- External Microphone Helmet Camera
DJI Osmo Action
Pros
- Color dual display screen for better monitoring
- The stabilization system works super well
- Waterproof for wider usage
- Various modes and functions to improve the shooting quality
Cons
- This one is not so good-looking
Lastly, the DJI Osmo Action is my recommendation if you need an easy to control model. You can see what is recording through the dual-screen and comfortably command it through voice control or touch screen.
This one is well waterproofed, just like the other model, so no worry about it getting broken in the rain. Moreover, you can enjoy certain features such as slow-motion, time-lapse, or snapshot to improve the shooting quality.
Product Specs
| Weight | 4.4 Ounces |
| Dimensions | 6.5 x 4.2 x 3.5 cm; |
| Screen Size | 2.25 Inches |
Key features:
- 11m Waterproof
- Explore Diverse Functions
- Double Display
Buying guide
Photo and video quality
Image and video quality are the first criteria anyone who intends to buy action cameras needs to be concerned about.
All action cameras on the list above are capable of capturing high-quality videos. The lowest resolution is 1080p and the highest resolution is 4K UHD. The minimum you need to have clear footage is 1080p.
You should also pay attention to the image processing speed per, in frames per second. The minimum required speed is 30 frames per second. For clearer and smoother videos, the camcorder needs to work at 60 frames per second.
However, the higher the resolution of the video, the more battery capacity it will consume. For long-distance cyclists, you should consider harmonizing these two elements.
Image stabilization
Image stabilization is a must-have feature for video processing when you’re traveling on rough roads.
More and more image stabilization technologies are being developed. Their function is to eliminate camera shake effects when moving to make videos smoother and more wonderful.
Field of view
Wider viewing angles allow the camcorder to capture more surrounding scenery and cover more street corners.
For those who want a camera that works for safety, the viewing angle is a consideration. When you see more scenes, it is safer.
Connectivity
Action cameras should have built-in WiFi, Bluetooth, ANT + sensors.
WiFi and Bluetooth make it easy to connect with other devices. It is an advantage to share, store videos, or stream. ANT + sensors can collect additional information such as heart rate, speed, altitude, etc.
It is not a required condition but it is better if any.
Size And weight
Users often prefer a compact and lightweight action camera.
The compact camera is highly portable. And it easily mounts to things like helmets, belts, etc.
Moreover, it is also related to aesthetics. I’m sure you don’t want a big, heavy, and bulky camera on your handlebar.
Waterproofing
Waterproofing is an additional feature for cycling action cameras.
It protects the camera from wet weather or you can get it underwater. For cameras without built-in waterproofing, you should buy a waterproof case to use when needed.
FAQs
What are the benefits of cameras while riding a bike?
Cameras can help you record your footage to improve your cycling, act as evidence when an accident occurs, and help to record all the scenery around you.
Which is the best bike camera under $100?
The best bike camera under $100 is AKASO EK7000 4K30FPS Action Camera
Which is the best action camera under $300?
The best action camera under $300 is YI 4K Action and Sports Camera.
Which is the best action camera under $500?
The best action cameras under $500 are GoPro HERO 9 Camera
How can I film a bike ride?
You should have a camera mounted on your bike or yourself, fix it at the right angle and start recording the ride.
Do Peloton bikes have cameras?
Yes, they are equipped with bike cameras.
What is the best safety camera for cyclists?
The best safety camera is GoPro MAX Traditional Camera.
My Top Pick
My top pick for the best bicycle camera is the AKASO EK7000 4K30FPS Action Camera. This one has been my companion for a long time without fail; all the footage from it is sharp, clean, and smooth; no blurry or noise can get in. It works well even under heavy downpours too!
And that is also the end of my review of the top 15 best bicycle cameras in 2021 today. Have you found the one you like yet? Or do you think these suggestions are a good choice? Let’s comment down below, and I will answer them all! See you next time!