Got a GoPro Hero 4 gathering dust and dreaming of making epic videos again? You’re in luck! While newer models grab the spotlight, your trusty Hero 4 is still a fantastic action camera, and with the right accessories, you can seriously upgrade your footage. Finding the best lense for GoPro Hero 4 can feel a bit like a treasure hunt these days, especially with so many new products designed for later models.
But don’t fret! We’re here to help you navigate the options. In this guide, we’ll dive into some of the top lens and filter options that can elevate your GoPro Hero 4’s capabilities, whether you’re shooting underwater, in bright sun, or just need some extra protection. We’ll also highlight crucial compatibility information, so you know exactly what will (and won’t) work with your Hero 4. Let’s get your old GoPro back in action!
Understanding GoPro Hero 4 Lens Accessories
Before we jump into the reviews, it’s important to understand that the GoPro Hero 4 doesn’t have interchangeable lenses in the traditional sense like a DSLR. Instead, accessories typically fit over its fixed lens or its waterproof housing. These usually come in the form of filters (like UV, ND, or color correction for underwater) or lens protectors. True “lens mods” with new optics are mostly a feature of much newer GoPro models. So, when we talk about the best lense for GoPro Hero 4, we’re primarily looking at these types of add-ons.
Our Top Picks for Your GoPro Hero 4
Here are some of the best lens-related accessories and filters that can make a real difference for your GoPro Hero 4. We’ll also look at some popular options for newer GoPros and clarify why they might not be the right fit for your Hero 4.
CamKix Diving Lens Filter Kit Compatible with GoPro Hero…
If you’re an underwater enthusiast, this CamKix Diving Lens Filter Kit is an absolute game-changer for your GoPro Hero 4. It’s designed specifically to work with your camera’s standard waterproof housing, instantly boosting the colors and contrast of your underwater footage. Say goodbye to dull, washed-out blues and hello to vibrant reds, yellows, and natural greens, making your ocean adventures truly pop! The ‘Clip & Slip’ system makes it super easy to switch filters on the fly, adapting to different depths and water conditions.
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Key Features:
- Enhances colors and improves contrast in various underwater conditions.
- Includes switchable RED, MAGENTA, and YELLOW filters for different water types and depths.
- RED filters for tropical blue salt/clear fresh water (5-20ft, 20-50ft, 50+ft).
- MAGENTA filter for fresh/salt green water (20-130ft).
- YELLOW filter for night shooting (up to 130ft).
- Easy ‘Clip & Slip’ system for quick filter changes.
- Designed for GoPro HERO 3+ and HERO 4 standard waterproof housing.
- Complete kit includes holder, 5 filters, storage bags, tether, cleaning cloth.
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Pros:
- Drastically improves underwater video and photo quality.
- Wide range of filters for various conditions.
- Easy to install and remove.
- Comes with a comprehensive accessory kit.
- Specifically designed for Hero 3+/4 compatibility.
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Cons:
- Requires the standard waterproof housing (not included).
- May need some practice to get the hang of depth-specific filters.
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User Impressions: Divers and snorkelers absolutely love how this kit brings life back to their underwater shots. Users frequently mention the noticeable difference in color saturation and how simple it is to use. Many say it’s an essential piece of kit for anyone taking their Hero 4 below the surface.
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2-Pack UV Filter Lens Protector for GoPro Hero 3, Hero…
Sometimes, the simplest accessories make the biggest difference. This 2-pack of UV filter lens protectors is a must-have for any GoPro Hero 4 owner looking to keep their camera’s valuable lens safe and sound. Not only do these filters provide crucial protection against scratches, dust, and grime, but they also reduce UV light reaching the sensor, potentially improving image clarity and protecting your camera long-term. With a high-quality optical glass construction and a clever silicone layer for a secure, scratch-free fit, it’s an easy and affordable way to prolong the life of your GoPro.
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Key Features:
- Protects your GoPro Hero 3/3+/4 lens from scratches, dirt, and damage.
- Reduces UV damage to the lens sensor.
- High-quality optical glass for excellent clarity and light transmission.
- Built-in silicone layer ensures secure fit and prevents scratches during installation.
- Easy to install and remove.
- Two-pack for a spare or multiple cameras.
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Pros:
- Essential physical protection for your lens.
- Reduces UV haze for potentially clearer images.
- Very easy to install and remove.
- Affordable two-pack provides great value.
- Perfect fit for GoPro Hero 3/3+/4 Black/Silver.
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Cons:
- Doesn’t offer creative effects like color filters or ND filters.
- Can accumulate dust on the outside, requiring occasional cleaning.
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User Impressions: Users highly recommend these protectors for their ease of use and the peace of mind they provide. Many have reported saving their GoPro lens from accidental bumps and drops, making it a small investment with potentially huge returns. The clear optics are also frequently praised.
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Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
GoPro ND Filter 4-Pack (HERO13 Black) – Official GoPro…
IMPORTANT COMPATIBILITY NOTE: This ND Filter 4-Pack is designed specifically for the GoPro HERO13 Black and is NOT compatible with the GoPro Hero 4.
While this isn’t a direct recommendation for your Hero 4, it’s important to understand what modern GoPro users are looking for in terms of lens accessories. These premium neutral density (ND) filters allow newer GoPro models to achieve cinematic motion blur by reducing the amount of light hitting the sensor. This is incredibly useful for slowing down shutter speed in bright conditions, creating a smoother, more film-like look, especially for fast-moving action.
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Key Features:
- Create cinematic motion blur for HERO13 Black.
- Premium HB-Series neutral density (ND) filters.
- Official GoPro accessory.
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Pros:
- Excellent for achieving professional-looking motion blur (for compatible cameras).
- High-quality construction.
- Official GoPro product ensures reliability.
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Cons:
- NOT compatible with GoPro Hero 4. This is crucial.
- Only for specific, newer GoPro models (HERO13 Black).
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User Impressions: Users with compatible newer GoPros rave about the cinematic quality these filters add to their footage, especially in bright daylight. They highlight the ease of use and the noticeable improvement in video aesthetics.
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Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
NEEWER ND Filter Set Compatible with GoPro Hero 12 Hero…
IMPORTANT COMPATIBILITY NOTE: This NEEWER ND Filter Set is specifically designed for GoPro Hero 12, 11, 10, and 9 Black cameras and is NOT compatible with the GoPro Hero 4.
Similar to the official GoPro ND filters, this NEEWER set offers a comprehensive solution for controlling light and glare on newer GoPro models. It includes a CPL (Circular Polarizer) filter to reduce reflections and enhance contrast, alongside various ND filters (ND8, ND16, ND32) for different levels of light reduction. For newer GoPro users, these are fantastic for achieving balanced exposures and vibrant, glare-free images, but they simply won’t fit or function on your Hero 4.
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Key Features:
- Includes CPL, ND8, ND16, ND32 filters for Hero 9/10/11/12 Black.
- ND filters reduce light for long exposure shots and avoid overexposure.
- CPL filter reduces reflection and glare from surfaces like water, snow, glass.
- HD optical glass for clear images with no color cast.
- Lightweight aluminum frame.
- 28 layers of Nano coatings for water repellency, scratch resistance, oil proofing, and anti-fingerprint.
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Pros:
- Versatile set for various lighting conditions and creative effects (for compatible cameras).
- High-quality optical glass and multi-resistant coatings.
- Easy twist-on mounting (for compatible cameras).
- Excellent value for a multi-filter pack.
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Cons:
- NOT compatible with GoPro Hero 4. This is a critical point.
- Exclusively designed for Hero 9, 10, 11, 12 Black.
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User Impressions: Owners of compatible GoPros praise this NEEWER set for its robust build quality and the tangible improvement it brings to their video and photo clarity. The CPL filter, in particular, gets high marks for its effectiveness in bright, reflective environments.
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Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
GoPro Ultra Wide Lens Mod (HERO13 Black) – Official GoPro…
IMPORTANT COMPATIBILITY NOTE: The GoPro Ultra Wide Lens Mod is exclusively designed for the GoPro HERO13 Black and is NOT compatible with the GoPro Hero 4.
This is a prime example of a “lens mod” that significantly alters the camera’s field of view and stabilization capabilities, but only for the latest GoPro models. For HERO13 Black users, this mod transforms their camera into the ultimate POV (Point of View) device, offering an incredibly wide 177° field of view and leveraging the advanced HyperSmooth video stabilization. While it’s a dream accessory for newer GoPros, the Hero 4’s architecture doesn’t support such external lens modifications.
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Key Features:
- Transforms HERO13 Black into an ultimate POV camera.
- Widest field of view (177°).
- Highest level of HyperSmooth video stabilization ever on a GoPro.
- Official GoPro accessory.
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Pros:
- Drastically expands field of view for immersive POV footage (for compatible cameras).
- Enhances stabilization for super smooth video (for compatible cameras).
- Official GoPro quality and integration.
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Cons:
- NOT compatible with GoPro Hero 4. This cannot be stressed enough.
- Only for HERO13 Black.
- Significant investment for a single-purpose mod.
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User Impressions: HERO13 Black users are blown away by the expanded perspective and incredible stabilization this mod provides. It’s often cited as an essential accessory for capturing dynamic action shots where every bit of field of view counts.
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Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
Final Thoughts on Finding the Best Lens for GoPro Hero 4
As you can see, while the market is flooded with amazing accessories for newer GoPro models, finding the truly best lense for GoPro Hero 4 means looking for products specifically designed for its older form factor. The CamKix Diving Filter Kit and the UV Lens Protectors are excellent examples of compatible and highly beneficial accessories that can significantly improve your Hero 4’s performance and longevity.
Always double-check compatibility before purchasing any accessory for your GoPro Hero 4. A quick read of the product description will usually tell you which GoPro models it supports. Stick to accessories that explicitly mention Hero 4 (or Hero 3/3+) compatibility to avoid disappointment. Happy shooting!
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I change the physical lens on my GoPro Hero 4 like a DSLR?
A1: No, the GoPro Hero 4 has a fixed lens and does not support interchangeable lenses in the traditional sense. Accessories for the Hero 4 typically fit over its existing lens or its waterproof housing.
Q2: What kind of lens accessories are available for the GoPro Hero 4?
A2: For the GoPro Hero 4, you’ll primarily find filters (like UV filters for protection, ND filters for light control, and color correction filters for underwater shooting) and protective covers that fit over the lens.
Q3: Are ND filters useful for my GoPro Hero 4?
A3: Yes, ND (Neutral Density) filters can be very useful for your GoPro Hero 4, especially in bright conditions. They reduce the amount of light hitting the sensor, allowing you to use slower shutter speeds for smoother, more cinematic video, or to prevent overexposure in intense sunlight. However, you’ll need ND filters specifically designed for the Hero 4 or its waterproof housing.
Q4: Why are some “lens mods” not compatible with the Hero 4?
A4: Newer GoPro models (like Hero 9, 10, 11, 12, 13) feature a removable protective lens cover, which allows for advanced “lens mods” that physically replace or clip onto that specific design. The GoPro Hero 4 has an integrated lens that doesn’t allow for this type of modification, making newer mods incompatible.
Q5: How do I improve underwater footage with my GoPro Hero 4?
A5: The best way to improve underwater footage with your GoPro Hero 4 is by using color correction filters (like red or magenta filters). These compensate for the loss of red light underwater, bringing back natural colors and contrast, making your videos look much more vibrant. A diving housing is also recommended for deeper dives.
Q6: Is a UV filter really necessary for my Hero 4?
A6: While not strictly “necessary” for image quality in all conditions, a UV filter acts as a crucial layer of protection for your GoPro Hero 4’s vulnerable lens. It helps prevent scratches, dust, and smudges, which are far more common and damaging than minor UV light effects. It’s a low-cost insurance policy for your camera’s optics.
Q7: Where is the best place to find compatible accessories for an older GoPro Hero 4?
A7: Online retailers like Amazon are often your best bet, as they have a vast marketplace. Always use the search term “GoPro Hero 4 lens” or “GoPro Hero 4 filters” and carefully read product descriptions to confirm compatibility before purchasing. Sometimes, specialty photography or action camera stores might also carry older stock.
