The Ultimate Guide to Buying a GoPro

Your Guide to buying the best GoPros

Overview

GoPros are the ultimate tool for capturing and recording your most thrilling and exciting moments. Whether you're a vlogger, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply love to document your life, a GoPro is the ideal device for creating beautiful and dynamic video and photo footage. But with so many models and features available, it can be hard to know which GoPro is right for you. This buying guide will help guide you through the process of selecting the perfect GoPro for your needs, by breaking down the different models, features and accessories available. With our advice, you'll find the perfect GoPro to capture your adventures!

Key features

  1. Size - GoPros come in a variety of sizes, which can influence the ease of mounting, the amount of footage captured, and the portability.
  2. Field of View - The field of view determines how much of your environment will be captured in the video. Choose a field of view according to what you intend to capture in your footage.
  3. Resolution - Choose a resolution based on what you will be using the footage for. Higher resolutions will allow for better quality, but some resolutions are too high for certain applications.
  4. Battery Life - The battery life of a GoPro will indicate how long the camera will last on a single charge. Look for a camera with a battery life that meets your needs.
  5. Connectivity - Many GoPros have built-in Wi-Fi capabilities that allow for easy sharing of footage or remote control. Check the product specs to see what kind of connectivity options are available.
  6. Accessories - The types of accessories available for a GoPro will depend on the model. Look for a model that offers the accessories you need to capture the type of footage you are looking for.
  7. Price - Consider your budget when choosing a GoPro and compare various models to find the best value for your needs.

See the most popular GoPros on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Durability - GoPros are known for their durability and ability to withstand extreme environments and conditions.
  • Recording Quality - GoPros are designed with the highest quality lenses and sensors, allowing them to record beautiful 4K video and 12MP photos.
  • Portability - GoPros are extremely lightweight and designed to be conveniently carried, making them perfect for travel and outdoor activities.
  • Features - GoPros are packed with features such as voice control, image stabilization, and GPS tracking that make capturing amazing footage a breeze.
  • Accessories - With a wide selection of GoPros and their accessories, you can find the ideal setup for your videos or photos.
  • Affordability - GoPros are renowned for their affordability, making them a great choice for those on a budget.

Cons

  • Cost - GoPros can be expensive, especially for the latest models and for additional accessories like mounts.
  • Short Battery Life - GoPros have a limited battery life - typically 1-2 hours - which may not be sufficient for long recording sessions.
  • No Optical Zoom - GoPros do not have a lens with optical zoom, meaning users must move closer to the subject in order to get a close-up shot.
  • User Interface - The user interface of some GoPros can be somewhat complex, making it difficult to access and change settings on-the-fly.
  • Durability - GoPros are usually rugged and waterproof, but they are not indestructible and may be prone to damage if mishandled.

Best alternatives

  1. DJI Osmo Action Camera - A rugged action camera with similar specs to the GoPro, including 4K/60fps video recording and 8x slow motion.
  2. Garmin VIRB Ultra 30 - This camera records 4K/30fps video and has an impressive waterproof rating of 50 meters.
  3. Yi 4K Action Camera - With 4K/30fps video recording and a 4k/60fps mode (at a lower resolution), this is a great budget option for those who don't need super-high resolution.
  4. Sony RX0 - This action camera combines a tiny form factor with impressive specs, such as 4K/30fps video recording and a waterproof rating of 10 meters.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

GoPro SD Card - Storage accessory for a GoPro camera Gimbal - A stabilizing device that helps reduce camera shake Tripod - Three-legged stand used to stabilize the camera Remote - A controller you can use to control the camera from a distance Housing - Protective case to keep the camera safe from the elements Mounts - These are used to attach the camera to different surfaces and objects Batteries - Provide power to the camera Cables - Used to connect the camera to a computer or other device Filters - Change the color or look of the video or photos Software - Used to edit and manage photos and videos taken with the GoPro

Common questions

  1. What features should I look for when buying a GoPro? Look for features like image stabilization, waterproofing, voice control, and Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connectivity, as well as the range of shooting modes, resolution, and frame rates available.
  2. What accessories are necessary for a GoPro? Depending on your specific needs and use case, accessories such as a carrying case, extra batteries, and SD cards can be beneficial. You may also want to consider mounts, remote controls, or a waterproof housing.
  3. How much should I expect to spend on a GoPro? Prices vary based on the model and accessories, but generally range from $150 to $500.
  4. Are there different types of GoPros available? Yes, GoPros come in different sizes and have different features and functionalities. Check the product description to determine which model is best for you.
  5. Which GoPro should I choose? It depends on your budget and your specific needs. Consider the features of each model and compare them to determine which one is the best fit for you.

Trivia

In 2017, a Go Pro camera was found in a forest in Finland, after it had been missing for two years! After being found, the footage of two years worth of forest life was discovered. While the footage isn't available online, it does provide an example of the durability of Go Pro cameras - even after two years of being exposed to the elements, the camera was still in working order. Source: https://www.cnet.com/news/camera-found-in-the-forest-after-2-years-disappearance/

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.