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The best GoPro action camera you can buy: And the alternatives
GoPro action cameras have evolved from enthusiast tools for extreme sports, to essential pieces of kit for on-the-go content creators, vloggers, and adventurers of all stripes.
Small but mighty, the best GoPro cameras are capable of capturing smooth, cinematic video clips and vibrant, wide-angle photos. With shock-proof shells, natively waterproof housings, and a vast range of dedicated mounts and accessories, you can be confident the camera can handle any activity you’re likely to encounter.
After a decade working as a professional creator, with more than five years dedicated to testing out the latest camera technology, I’ve seen exactly what separates the best from the rest. This guide is designed to cut through the jargon with answers to common FAQs, walk you through GoPro’s latest lineup in my reviews, and help you find the perfect camera for your next adventure.
The best GoPro action cameras: At a glance
How to choose the best GoPro action camera
GoPro’s current lineup spans the latest flagship Hero 13 Black, through to the budget-friendly GoPro Hero (2024). The previous-generation flagship, the Hero 12 Black, now sits in the middle of GoPro’s Hero lineup, while the Max 2 is the firm’s latest dual-lens, 360-degree offering. Shop around, and you can still find deals on older Hero 11 Black units, but GoPro has now retired this option from its official roster.
GoPro’s higher-end Hero Black models offer the most impressive image quality, with high bit-rate, high frame-rate video recording at up to 5K60. The Hero Black models are also where you’ll find GoPro’s most effective HyperSmooth video stabilisation tech and the greatest degree of camera control.
Be mindful, however, that higher-resolution and higher-frame rate footage can be storage-intensive and can demand a powerful computer for efficient video editing. For casual sharing on social media, standard 4K and high-quality 1080p footage generally suffices and is easier to store, edit, and upload.
All of GoPro’s current-generation action cameras offer native waterproofing, smartphone app control, and USB-C battery charging. You’ll also find the same accessory “mounting fingers” throughout GoPro’s entire range, enabling you to pair your camera with an expansive range of mounts, harnesses, and selfie sticks.
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