Are you still rocking your trusty GoPro Hero4 Black and dreaming of taking to the skies for some epic aerial footage? You’re not alone! Even though it’s been a few years since its release, the GoPro Hero4 Black remains a powerful little action camera, capable of capturing stunning 4K video. Finding the best drone for GoPro Hero4 Black can feel a bit like a treasure hunt these days, as many newer drones come with built-in cameras. But don’t worry, we’re here to help you navigate the landscape and get your Hero4 Black soaring!
This guide will walk you through essential products and considerations to help you achieve incredible aerial videography with your beloved GoPro. We’ll look at the camera itself, crucial accessories, and even discuss dedicated drone components designed specifically for the Hero4 Black. Let’s get your aerial adventures off the ground!
Why the GoPro Hero4 Black is Still a Solid Choice for Drones
Despite newer models hitting the market, the Hero4 Black offers professional-grade 4K video at 30fps and 1080p at 120fps, perfect for crisp, cinematic shots or super slow-motion playback. Its compact size and robust build made it a favorite among drone enthusiasts back in the day, and its capabilities still hold up for many projects. If you already own one, pairing it with the right drone setup is a cost-effective way to get into aerial filmmaking without investing in an entirely new camera system.
Key Considerations When Choosing a Drone Setup for Your GoPro Hero4 Black
When looking for the best drone for GoPro Hero4 Black, you need to consider more than just the drone itself. Compatibility, stability, and battery life are paramount.
- Mounting System: This is crucial. Your drone needs a specific mount or gimbal designed to hold the Hero4 Black securely. Vibration isolation is key for smooth footage.
- Payload Capacity: The drone must be able to lift the Hero4 Black (which weighs about 88g or 3.1 oz) comfortably, along with any gimbal or mounting hardware, without compromising flight performance or battery life.
- Stability & GPS: For smooth video, a drone with excellent GPS stabilization and reliable hovering capabilities is a must. You don’t want jerky footage ruining your epic shots.
- Battery Life: Aerial filming drains batteries quickly. Look for drones with decent flight times and consider investing in extra batteries for your Hero4 Black too.
- Live Feed & Control: While many older drones supported a live video feed from the GoPro (often via dedicated apps or hardware), this might be harder to achieve with generic drones.
Now, let’s dive into some products that are relevant to getting your Hero4 Black airborne.
1. The Original: GoPro Hero4 Black
This is the camera that started it all for many aspiring aerial cinematographers. The GoPro Hero4 Black was a game-changer, offering professional-grade video quality in a tiny, rugged package. While you won’t find this camera bundled with new drones today, understanding its capabilities and features is key, as it’s the core of your drone setup. Listings like the “GoPro HERO4 Black Edition Camera (Renewed)” 
and “GoPro HERO4 Black 4K Action Camera” 
essentially refer to this same powerful camera, often found refurbished or from specialized retailers. Its ability to capture high-resolution, high-frame-rate video makes it ideal for capturing dynamic aerial shots, provided you have the right drone to carry it.
Key Features:
– Professional 4K30, 2.7K60 and 1080P120 video
– 720P240 video for super slow motion playback and 12MP photos at up to 30 frames per second
– Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth support the GoPro app, Smart Remote and more
– Improved camera control and built-in video trimming lets you create and save short video clips right on your camera
– Protune with SuperView delivers cinema-quality capture and advanced manual control for photos and video with the world’s most immersive wide-angle field of view
– Night Photo and Night Lapse offer customizable exposure settings for nighttime shooting
Pros:
– Excellent video quality for its time, still highly capable
– Compact and lightweight, suitable for drone mounting
– Wide range of shooting modes and settings
– Durable build quality
– Established ecosystem of accessories
Cons:
– Older technology, no built-in screen (requires external LCD BacPac or app)
– Battery life can be short, especially in 4K
– Requires specific mounting solutions for drones
– Not as readily available new
User Impressions: Users consistently praise the Hero4 Black for its incredible video quality and versatility. Many still use it for specific projects, appreciating its reliability and the depth of its ProTune settings. The lack of an integrated screen was often cited, but compensated for by the app or an add-on.
See it on Amazon here: GoPro Hero4 Black (or similar refurbished listing)
2. GoPro Karma Harness for HERO4 (GoPro Official Accessory)
This isn’t a drone itself, but it’s arguably the most critical piece of the puzzle if you’re looking for the best drone for GoPro Hero4 Black experience from GoPro themselves. The GoPro Karma Harness for HERO4 was designed specifically to integrate your Hero4 Black (or Silver) with the now-discontinued GoPro Karma Drone and Karma Grip. It acts as the interface, allowing the Karma Drone’s integrated gimbal to stabilize your Hero4 Black footage and provide remote camera control. While the Karma Drone itself is no longer produced, used units or parts might still be available, making this harness essential for anyone still looking to utilize a Karma setup with their Hero4. It represents GoPro’s direct answer to pairing their cameras with their drones.
Key Features:
– Mounts HERO4 Black or HERO4 Silver to the Karma Drone and Karma Grip
– Integrated smart technology for remote camera control, live preview and more
– Official GoPro accessory ensures perfect fit and compatibility
Pros:
– Provides official GoPro integration with the Karma Drone
– Enables remote control and live preview (with Karma system)
– Designed for optimal stability with Karma’s gimbal
– Secure and reliable mounting for Hero4 Black
Cons:
– Requires the GoPro Karma Drone, which is no longer in production
– May be difficult to find new
– Limited to the Karma ecosystem
User Impressions: Owners of the Karma drone found the harness indispensable for using their Hero4 cameras. They appreciated the seamless integration and the excellent stabilized footage it enabled. The main limitation cited now is the availability of the Karma drone itself.
See it on Amazon here: GoPro Karma Harness for HERO4
3. Suptig Battery (2 Pack) and Dual Charger for Gopro Hero…
When your GoPro Hero4 Black is up in the air, the last thing you want is for the battery to die mid-flight, potentially losing that perfect shot. This Suptig battery pack and dual charger is an absolute must-have accessory for any GoPro Hero4 Black user, especially for drone pilots. Having spare batteries extends your precious flight time, allowing for multiple takes or longer explorations. The dual charger is incredibly convenient, letting you power up two batteries simultaneously, so you’re always ready for your next aerial adventure. It’s an essential part of maximizing your time with the best drone for GoPro Hero4 Black setup.
Key Features:
– High-tech lithium battery technology: Battery capacity 1160mAh / 3.8V / 4.4Wh / Li-ion for longer battery life.
– Dual battery charger: can simultaneously charge two batteries, unique PCB safety circuit design for secure use.
– Compatible with the HERO4 Black and HERO4 Silver models; Suptig dual battery charger works for GoPro batteries or Suptig AHDBT-401 Batteries.
– Incredibly Compact Size:(2.1×1.7×0.78 in)
– Charges two batteries fully in about 2:30-3 hours (with a 1A adapter, not included) using the included MINI USB cable.
– What You Get: 1xSuptig dual battery charger, 2x batteries, 1xMINI USB Cable.
Pros:
– Extends GoPro recording time significantly
– Dual charger saves time and hassle
– Compact and easy to transport
– Cost-effective compared to official GoPro batteries
– Good compatibility with Hero4 Black and Silver
Cons:
– 1A adapter not included
– Battery performance may vary compared to official GoPro batteries (though often negligible for most users)
User Impressions: Customers frequently praise this pack for its value and convenience. They find the extra batteries essential for longer shooting sessions and appreciate the ability to charge two at once, ensuring their GoPro is always ready to go.
See it on Amazon here: Suptig Battery (2 Pack) and Dual Charger
4. HYTOBP GPS Drone with 4K Camera for Adults, S166 Drone…
It’s important to clarify something crucial about drones like the HYTOBP GPS Drone. While this is indeed a capable drone with a 4K camera, it is not designed to carry an external camera like your GoPro Hero4 Black. The “4K Camera” listed in its features refers to its own built-in camera. If you’re specifically looking for the best drone for GoPro Hero4 Black, this model won’t fit that bill because it doesn’t have a mounting system for a separate action camera. Drones that carry external GoPros are typically larger, more robust, and have dedicated gimbals/mounts. This HYTOBP drone is a great option if you’re looking for an all-in-one drone without needing to use your Hero4 Black.
Key Features:
– 【NOTE】Make sure the drone battery is fully charged before flying. Use a 5V 2A charger and the USB cable included in the accessory (charger not included) to charge the drone battery.
– 【GPS Auto Return】Auto return to take-off point on low battery, signal loss, or button press. Reliable GPS accuracy and flight track recording on APP.
– 【4K Camera】Equipped with HD camera, supports 4K photo and 1080P video. Motorized lens with 90° adjustable angle, 5G WiFi transmission for stable video.
– 【Multi-functional Flight】Weighs less than 249g (no FAA registration needed). Visual LCD display remote control. Waypoint flights, auto-follow, 3D rotations, and 3-speed modes.
– 【Brushless Motor】Long-life brushless motor for lower power consumption, quieter flight, more powerful and stable.
– Provides 3 replaceable batteries (7.4V, 3000mAh), each supporting 15-20 minutes of flight.
Pros:
– Comes with its own 4K camera, convenient all-in-one solution
– GPS features for stable flight and auto-return
– Long flight time with multiple included batteries
– Lightweight (under 249g), often no FAA registration required
– Brushless motors for durability and quiet operation
Cons:
– Not designed to carry an external GoPro Hero4 Black
– Camera quality may not match a dedicated GoPro
– Limited upgrade path for camera quality
– Control and video transmission are tied to its own system
User Impressions: Users typically enjoy this drone for its ease of use, stability, and the convenience of a built-in camera, especially for beginners or casual flyers. They appreciate the GPS features and extra batteries. However, for those specifically needing to use their GoPro Hero4 Black, it’s not the right fit.
See it on Amazon here: HYTOBP GPS Drone with 4K Camera
5. GoPro Hero12 Black E-Commerce Package – Waterproof Action Camera
While your search is specifically for the best drone for GoPro Hero4 Black, it’s worth acknowledging how far GoPro cameras have come. The GoPro Hero12 Black represents the pinnacle of GoPro’s current lineup. It’s important to understand that this camera is not a Hero4 Black and uses a completely different mounting system. Drones designed for a Hero12 Black (or Hero10/11 Black, which are similar newer models 
, 
) will have different gimbals and mounting solutions than those for a Hero4. If you’re considering upgrading your action camera and then finding a drone for that camera, the Hero12 offers unparalleled stabilization, battery life, and image quality. However, it will not fit on a drone designed for a Hero4 without significant modifications or a new, dedicated mount.
Key Features:
– What’s Included: Hero12 Black Camera, Enduro battery, USB-C charging cable, curved adhesive mount, mounting buckle, and thumb screw.
– Rugged & Waterproof to 33ft (10m).
– 2x Longer Runtime: Up to 70 minutes continuous recording at 5.3K60 with improved battery efficiency and 1720mAh Enduro battery.
– Unbelievable 5.3K Video & 27MP Photos: 91% more resolution than 4K, grab 24.7MP photos from videos.
– High Dynamic Range (HDR) Video & Photo.
– Emmy Award-Winning HyperSmooth 6.0 Stabilization: Silky smooth footage even in shaky conditions.
– 360° Horizon Lock: Keeps footage level even with full camera rotation.
– Extra-Large Field of View: Most expansive ever on a HERO camera.
– Up to 8x Slo-Mo: Ultra-detailed slow-motion at up to 2.7K.
– Bluetooth Audio Connectivity: Connect wirelessly to external mics or earbuds.
Pros:
– Cutting-edge video and photo quality (5.3K, 27MP)
– Exceptional HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilization (often eliminates need for heavy gimbals)
– Significantly improved battery life with Enduro battery
– Wider field of view and advanced shooting modes
– Robust and highly waterproof
Cons:
– Not compatible with GoPro Hero4 Black drone mounts or gimbals
– Higher price point
– Might require a different drone or mounting solution than what was used for Hero4
– Not directly relevant to the “GoPro Hero4 Black” part of the query beyond being a newer GoPro.
User Impressions: Users are blown away by the Hero12 Black’s video quality and especially its stabilization, which often means they don’t need a heavy gimbal for many activities. The longer battery life and advanced features are highly praised, making it a top choice for those investing in a new action camera setup.
See it on Amazon here: GoPro Hero12 Black
The Reality of Finding a Drone for GoPro Hero4 Black in 2024
While the GoPro Hero4 Black is still a fantastic camera, finding a brand-new drone specifically designed to carry it can be challenging. Most new drones either come with their own integrated cameras or are designed for the latest GoPro models. Your best bet for a dedicated “drone for GoPro Hero4 Black” solution often involves:
- Seeking out a used GoPro Karma Drone: This was the official, integrated solution and remains the most seamless way to get your Hero4 Black in the air with a gimbal.
- Using older, custom-built, or generic FPV drones: Many FPV (First Person View) drone enthusiasts still build their own rigs capable of carrying a GoPro. This requires technical know-how and often a separate gimbal.
- Third-party camera drones with interchangeable payloads: Some professional-grade drones allow you to attach various cameras, but these are typically very expensive and overkill for a Hero4 Black.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use my GoPro Hero4 Black with any drone that has a camera mount?
A1: Not necessarily. While some generic drones might have a mount, the crucial factor is stability. You need a drone with a proper gimbal that is balanced for the Hero4 Black’s weight and size to get smooth, professional-looking footage. Without a gimbal, your video will likely be shaky and unwatchable.
Q2: Is the GoPro Karma Drone the only option for my Hero4 Black?
A2: No, it’s not the only option, but it was GoPro’s official and most integrated solution. Other older camera drones (like some DJI Phantom 2/3 models or Yuneec Q500) offered third-party gimbals compatible with the Hero4, or you could explore custom FPV builds. However, the Karma offered a unique ecosystem.
Q3: My drone has its own camera. Can I remove it and attach my Hero4 Black?
A3: For most consumer drones with built-in cameras (like the HYTOBP drone we reviewed), the camera is integrated and not designed to be removed or replaced. Doing so would void warranties and likely render the drone inoperable or unbalanced, leading to poor flight performance and unstable footage.
Q4: Will a newer GoPro like the Hero12 Black fit on a drone mount designed for the Hero4 Black?
A4: No, definitely not. Newer GoPros like the Hero12, 11, or 10 Black have different dimensions and updated mounting systems (e.g., built-in mounting fingers). They require their own specific gimbals or direct mounting solutions, which are incompatible with Hero4 Black mounts.
Q5: What are the main benefits of using a separate GoPro Hero4 Black on a drone versus a drone with a built-in camera?
A5: Using a separate GoPro allows you to easily swap the camera between your drone, handheld gimbals, or other mounts. It also means you can upgrade your camera independently of the drone. However, drones with integrated cameras often offer a more streamlined user experience and might be lighter or more compact.
Q6: Are there any universal gimbals or mounts that work with the GoPro Hero4 Black?
A6: Yes, in the past, several third-party manufacturers offered universal 2-axis or 3-axis gimbals that could be adapted to various drones and were specifically designed for the Hero4 Black. Finding new ones now might be tough, but you could look for used options or specialty drone shops.
Q7: How important are extra batteries for my GoPro Hero4 Black when flying a drone?
A7: Extremely important! Drone flight times are limited, and so is your GoPro’s battery life, especially when recording in 4K. Having multiple fully charged GoPro batteries ensures you can make the most of your drone’s flight time and capture more footage without interruptions.
Conclusion
Finding the best drone for GoPro Hero4 Black today isn’t as straightforward as it once was, but it’s certainly not impossible. While new drones often come with integrated cameras, your Hero4 Black is still a powerful tool for aerial videography. Focus on older, compatible systems like the GoPro Karma (if you can find one), or explore custom-built drone solutions with Hero4-specific gimbals. Remember to prioritize stability, payload capacity, and of course, plenty of spare batteries for both your drone and your GoPro. With the right setup, your GoPro Hero4 Black can continue to capture breathtaking aerial footage for years to come. Happy flying!
