The Best Action Camera Phone Attachments of 2022

Updated: September 20, 2022 | 5:36 PM

Capturing a special moment is nothing new. People are always looking to take the perfect photo to post to Instagram, Facebook, or their Tinder profiles. An action camera (think GoPros or other unique sports photography and videography cameras) is a camera specially designed to capture adventurous moments like mountain biking, swimming, or intense hiking.

Action cameras differ from regular cameras in that they are small, mountable cameras. They differ from your phone in that they are usually waterproof, can be treated much more roughly, and capture all of your adventures. They’re made for cyclists, divers, hikers, and even YouTube vloggers capturing their day-to-day life but can cost a pretty penny. But it’s possible to turn your smartphone into an action camera using attachments.

Here are the best action camera phone attachments of 2022.

Tripod Adapters for Action Cameras

Tripods are a great way to mount your camera. There are many different kinds, some of that are small and have bendy legs, like this one from Amazon. There are also tripods that come with little remote controls that you can use up to 100 feet away or convert into a selfie stick, like this one. This way, you can set up the perfect shot, even from afar, and snap it, even if you’re solo. You can also set it up to record you for a timelapse or a slow-motion action move. If you’re using an Apple watch, you can even see what the camera sees by opening the camera app from your wrist. Mounts are extremely versatile and provide structure and a perfect frame, whether you’re with a group or on a solo adventure.

Gimbals for Action Cameras

Gimbals are an excellent way to turn your standard smartphone into an action camera. Phone gimbals are like a combination tripod and stabilizer, providing you with a smooth, beautiful photo and video results. Gimbals come in many price points, but one of the highest-rated gimbals on Amazon can be purchased for $159. A gimbal works by providing a pivoted support of your phone, making it, so the phone moves on an axis. By keeping the phone independent of the bumps and jumps on an adventure, the video and photo quality is much smoother and looks more professional than many action cameras on the market.

Protective Cases for Action Cameras

One of the most important things you can buy when converting your smartphone into an action camera is a strong, protective case. When you’re out on an adventure, you want to keep your phone from dropping and cracking, but you also want to keep it from the elements. Getting your phone wet in a lake or dropping it in the mud can damage or destroy it. If you have your phone attached to your body, you can even risk getting too much sweat on the device. Cases by companies like Otterbox, Speck, and Pela Case are great investments when it comes to protecting your phone.

Grips with Batteries for Action Cameras

The last thing you want to happen while you’re out in nature, far from an outlet, is a dead battery. Filming and taking photos for long periods of time can really do a number on your smartphone battery. It’s also very important to stay safe while outdoors and have a way to call for help in an emergency. There are many excellent products on the market that provide wireless charging while enhancing the qualities of your smartphone camera.

Head Mounts for Action Cameras

Everyone is familiar with the original GoPro, and the way athletes used them by mounting the cameras to their heads for a very cool and unique viewing experience. If you’re looking to capture a similar experience, try a head mount for your smartphone. There are many action mounts available that are compatible with any smartphone on the market. Head mounts are different from tripod mounts because they basically capture the action through your eyes.

Editing Software for Action Cameras

Last but certainly not least, editing software can make a huge difference in taking your footage from amateur to professional. There are plenty of great editing apps available in the Apple and Android app stores for a range of prices. If you’re looking to mimic everything that GoPro does, check out the GoPro Video Editor app. You don’t need to own a GoPro to take advantage of this excellent software. It will work flawlessly with your phone.