Testing the Cheapest Cameras on Amazon: Are They Worth It?
Check out my full video HERE
Introduction
We’ve all seen those ultra-cheap digital cameras on Amazon: “4K” point-and-shoots, action cams, and camcorders boasting 48-megapixel photos, incredible zoom, and even image stabilization—all for $50 to $100. The claims seem too good to be true. But with so many people buying these devices (some even top-rated on Amazon), it’s time to find out what they’re really like. Can these bargain-basement cameras deliver on their promises, or are we just throwing our money away?
In this test, we’ll explore three of these budget gadgets—a 4K “vlog” camera, a waterproof action cam, and a cheap camcorder—to see what you actually get. Spoiler: Expect plenty of surprises, both good and bad.
1. The 4K Point-and-Shoot ($87)
Claims: 4K video, 48MP photos, flip-out screen, face detection, image stabilization.
First Impressions:
Right out of the box, it includes a 32GB micro SD card, two batteries, a lens cap, a wrist strap, and a USB-C charger. On paper, it looks like a steal at under $100. The body is cheaply built—lightweight plastic—but at least it has a decent grip and a flip-up screen for vlogging.
Reality Check:
- Video Quality: The advertised 4K is actually 15 fps—choppy and barely usable. Dropping to 2.7K at 30 fps looks more natural and less jerky. So, “4K” is more marketing than reality.
- Photo Mode: While it may technically output a 48MP file, the image quality can’t compete with even a low-end smartphone. Expect soft details and questionable colors.
- Audio & Extras: Surprisingly, it supports an external mic input. The included flip screen is nice for framing yourself. But autofocus hunts, exposure fluctuates, and dynamic range is limited.
Verdict:
Not a phone replacement. But if you need a super-cheap camera for fun projects, or a toy for a young beginner, it’s not the worst thing you could buy. Just don’t expect real 4K or crisp photos.
2. The 4K Action Cam ($53)
Claims: 4K/30fps recording, waterproof down to 131 ft, image stabilization, 20MP photos.
What You Get:
This one comes with a lot of accessories: waterproof housing, mounts, straps, two batteries, a dual-battery charger, and even a wireless remote. At $53, that’s impressive. It’s similar in appearance to a GoPro, but feather-light and definitely cheaper in build quality.
Reality Check:
- Video Quality: The 4K30 footage is passable for casual use—better than expected for the price. Colors and clarity aren’t pro-level, but for $53, you get a functional action cam.
- Underwater Test: The housing kept the camera dry in a pool test, though some condensation appeared days later. Use at your own risk.
- Stabilization & Frame Rates: It claims stabilization and even 720p at 120fps slow-motion. Results are mediocre, but hey, it’s there and somewhat works.
- Audio: Tinny and muffled, especially inside the waterproof housing. Don’t rely on this for crisp sound.
Verdict:
For a throwaway vacation camera, something to strap onto a bike or use on a trip without worrying about loss or damage, this is surprisingly decent. It’s not a GoPro, but for fun underwater clips or rough action footage, you’re at least getting your money’s worth in accessories alone.
3. The $50 Camcorder ($53)
Claims: Full HD 1080p, 24MP stills, 16x zoom, flip-out screen, mic input.
First Impressions:
It’s a tiny camcorder with a 3-inch rotating screen and actually includes two batteries, a wall charger, and a carrying case. The build quality screams “toy,” but it also features a mic input and a standard hot shoe—unexpected at this price.
Reality Check:
- Video Quality: 1080p, but at 15 fps. The result is choppy and not really suitable for fast-moving subjects. It’s okay if you’re just recording a static scene, but don’t expect smooth, cinematic footage.
- Image & Zoom: A 16x “digital” zoom means just cropping in—quality falls apart quickly. Still images are underwhelming, no better than a budget flip phone.
- Audio: Internal mic is passable, but the ability to add an external mic might improve sound. Still, the low frame rate makes it tough to recommend for serious video work.
Verdict:
This feels like a novelty item—something you’d give a kid to play with, or use as a prop. It’s cheap and simple, but the 15 fps “HD” video isn’t practical for most content creators.
Overall Verdict:
If you’re looking for an actual content creation tool that rivals even a basic smartphone camera, these aren’t it. The specs are misleading—4K often at absurdly low frame rates, huge megapixel counts that don’t translate to crisp photos, and “stabilization” that can’t compare to modern standards.
But they aren’t completely worthless. For a fun, disposable-style camera to experiment with in risky environments or as a child’s first camera, these can be entertaining. The action cam, in particular, offers decent value due to its accessories and waterproof housing. Just manage your expectations.