Ever wondered how those amazing half-above, half-below water photos are taken with a GoPro? The secret often lies with a dome port! If you own a GoPro Hero 5, you know its incredible potential, but truly mastering underwater photography, especially those striking split-level shots, requires the right gear. That’s where a high-quality dome port comes in. It helps move the waterline away from the lens, making it possible to capture both the underwater world and the scene above simultaneously, without distortion.
Choosing the best dome for the GoPro Hero 5 can feel like a deep dive into options. There are many on the market, each with unique features, build quality, and accessories. We’ve surfaced the top contenders to help you make an informed decision. Below, we’ll explore seven fantastic dome ports, breaking down what makes each one stand out, so you can pick the best dome for your GoPro Hero 5 and start capturing those unforgettable moments.
1. GEPULY Dome Port Lens for GoPro Hero 5 6 7…
The GEPULY Dome Port stands out for its integrated filter system, making it incredibly versatile for various underwater conditions. This clever design allows you to quickly switch between a 10x macro filter for tiny marine life and a red filter for vibrant, natural colors in deeper waters, all without needing to disassemble your setup. It’s built into a robust, high-transparent acrylic dome that perfectly houses your Hero 5, ensuring superior optical performance and deep waterproof capabilities.
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Key Features:
- Compatible with GoPro Hero 5 Black, Hero 6 Black, Hero 7 Black, Hero (2018)
- Waterproof up to 147ft (45m)
- Built-in rotary knob for switching between 10x macro filter, red filter, and no filter
- High transparent acrylic dome for vivid images
- Integrated waterproof housing case
- Comes with floating hand grip, storage bag, wrist strap, spanner, thumb screw, and anti-fog inserts
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Pros:
- Unique built-in switchable filters offer great versatility
- Excellent deep-diving waterproof rating
- Comprehensive accessory kit included
- High-quality acrylic ensures clear, distortion-free visuals
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Cons:
- The rotary knob mechanism, while convenient, could be a potential point of failure if not maintained
- Some users might prefer a larger dome size for even wider split shots
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User Impressions: Users frequently praise the convenience of the integrated filters, noting how much it improves their underwater shooting experience. The robust build and clear dome are also highly rated, making it a reliable choice for diverse aquatic adventures.
2. SOONSUN Dome Port for GoPro Hero 5 6 7 Black,…
The SOONSUN Dome Port is another excellent choice that brings built-in filter functionality to the table, making it super easy to adapt to different shooting scenarios. Its semicircular dome design excels at creating those iconic half-and-half shots, seamlessly separating the above and below water worlds. What truly sets this SOONSUN model apart is its impressive 196ft (60m) waterproof rating, making it suitable not just for casual snorkeling but also for serious deep-diving photography.
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Key Features:
- Semicircular dome port design for perfect split shots
- Built-in switchable 10x macro filter and red filter
- Waterproof up to 196ft (60m)
- Integrated waterproof housing case
- Includes trigger, floating hand grip, and adjustable lanyard
- Compatible with GoPro HERO 5 Black, HERO 6 Black, HERO 7 Black, HERO (2018)
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Pros:
- Exceptional waterproof depth rating for serious divers
- Integrated filters are a huge time-saver
- Trigger button for easy shutter activation
- High-quality construction promises clear optical performance
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Cons:
- Filter mechanism requires careful handling to ensure longevity
- May feel slightly bulkier due to the robust design
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User Impressions: Divers particularly appreciate the deep waterproof capabilities and the convenience of the integrated filters, reporting excellent results for both shallow and deep-water photography. The included trigger grip also gets high marks for ease of use.
3. Suptig Dome, Dome Port, Underwater Dome Compatible for…
The Suptig Dome offers a straightforward yet highly effective solution for capturing stunning aquatic visuals. Crafted from a high-quality PC+Acrylic blend, it provides exceptional transparency, ensuring your photos and videos are vibrant and true-to-life. It’s praised for its perfect compatibility with the GoPro Hero 5 (and its listed siblings), guaranteeing a snug fit and reliable performance. This model focuses on core functionality: clear, distortion-free half-and-half shots.
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Key Features:
- Perfectly compatible with GoPro Hero 7 Black, Hero 6, Hero 5, Hero (2018)
- Made of high transparent PC+Acrylic material
- Waterproof up to 98ft (30m)
- 6-inch dome size
- Comes with a high-configuration floating handle (hollow for storage)
- Includes thumbscrew, wrench, cleaning cloth, and protective bag
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Pros:
- Excellent optical clarity from high-transparent materials
- Floating grip with a useful hollow storage compartment
- Reliable and straightforward design
- Good accessory bundle for the price
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Cons:
- No integrated filters, meaning separate filters would be needed if desired
- Waterproof rating is less than some competitors, limiting deep-diving use
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User Impressions: Users love its simplicity and effectiveness for capturing clear split shots. The transparent material and robust build quality are frequently highlighted, as is the versatile floating handle with its hidden storage.
4. Suptig Dome Port Lens Compatible for GoPro Hero 7 Black…
This upgraded version of the Suptig Dome Port takes user convenience up a notch by allowing you to view your GoPro’s front LCD screen directly through the dome. This seemingly small feature is a game-changer for monitoring your camera’s status and settings without disassembling the unit. Like its sibling, it’s made from highly transparent PC+Acrylic for superb image quality and is designed specifically to produce non-distorted split photos, making it a strong contender for the best dome for the GoPro Hero 5 if real-time monitoring is important to you.
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Key Features:
- UPGRADED VERSION with front LCD view window
- Compatible with GoPro Hero 7 Black, Hero 6 Black, Hero 5, Hero (2018)
- Made of high transparent PC+Acrylic material
- 6-inch dome size
- Floating hand grip with hollow storage compartment
- Comes with thumbscrew, wrench, microfiber cleaning cloth, and protective bag
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Pros:
- Front LCD visibility is a significant convenience
- High optical transparency for distortion-free shots
- Floating grip with practical storage
- Good value with included accessories
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Cons:
- Still lacks integrated filters
- Waterproof depth might be a limitation for very deep dives (features don’t specify, but implies similar to other Suptig 30m)
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User Impressions: The ability to see the front screen is a major plus for many users, who find it enhances their shooting workflow. The dome’s overall clarity and the useful floating grip also receive consistent praise.
5. TELESIN Dome Port for GoPro Hero 7 6 5 Black,…
The TELESIN Dome Port is a fantastic all-in-one solution known for its robust construction and superior optical performance. Its integrated design, combining the polycarbonate body with the waterproof housing, minimizes potential leak points, providing peace of mind. Designed specifically for the GoPro Hero 5 (among others), it excels at delivering immersive wide-angle shots both above and below the waterline. This dome is built for reliability and high-quality results.
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Key Features:
- Specifically designed for GoPro Hero 7 / Hero 6 / Hero 5 Black
- Provides excellent above/below water shooting
- Made of quality PC+Acrylic for high visibility
- All-in-one polycarbonate body and waterproof housing
- New version handheld floating grip with storage and 1/4” screw hole
- Full accessories kit: velvet bag, plastic wrench, cleaning cloth, screws, pistol trigger, floating hand grip, hand strap
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Pros:
- One-piece design reduces leak risks
- Excellent optical clarity for immersive photos
- Comprehensive accessory kit, including a pistol trigger for easy shooting
- Floating grip offers versatile storage and mounting options
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Cons:
- No built-in filters (similar to some others)
- May feel slightly bulky for minimalist users
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User Impressions: Customers frequently highlight the TELESIN dome’s solid build quality and the peace of mind offered by its integrated housing. The pistol trigger attachment is often cited as a favorite accessory for capturing quick shots.
6. SOONSUN Dome Port Lens for GoPro Hero 5 6 7…
This SOONSUN Dome Port Lens provides another excellent choice for capturing unique aquatic perspectives. It’s specifically tailored for a wide range of GoPro Hero models, including the Hero 5, ensuring a perfect fit and reliable performance. What makes this model particularly user-friendly is its reserved open space for the camera’s front LCD view window, allowing you to easily monitor your settings and battery life without removing the camera. It offers a solid 147 feet (45 meters) of waterproof protection, making it suitable for most underwater adventures.
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Key Features:
- Compatible with GoPro HERO 7 Black/Silver/White, HERO 6 Black, HERO 5 Black, HERO(2018)
- Integrative dome port with waterproof housing case
- Waterproof up to 147 feet (45 meters)
- Reserved open space for camera front LCD view window
- Comes with soft draw string bag, aluminum wrench, screws, adjustable hand strap, pistol trigger, and detachable floating hand grip
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Pros:
- Allows viewing of the camera’s front LCD screen
- Good waterproof depth for various activities
- Includes a pistol trigger for enhanced usability
- Broad compatibility with Hero 7 series (Black, Silver, White)
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Cons:
- Lacks integrated filters for color correction or macro photography
- Some users might prefer a more robust carrying case over a drawstring bag
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User Impressions: The ability to see the front LCD is a consistent highlight for users, significantly improving the shooting experience. The robust waterproof design and the inclusion of the pistol trigger are also highly valued for capturing dynamic shots.
7. Dome Port for GoPro Hero 7 6 5 Black, Underwater…
This Dome Port is designed with simplicity and effectiveness in mind, focusing on delivering distortion-free, stunning split-level photos. It boasts a transparent dome made of durable acrylic, ensuring both optimal clarity and long-lasting, scratch-resistant performance. A helpful line on the back indicates the halfway point, aiding in perfectly leveled shots. It’s a straightforward, reliable option for anyone looking to achieve those iconic half-and-half photos without unnecessary bells and whistles.
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Key Features:
- Specially designed for Gopro Hero 7 Black/ Hero 6 Black/ Hero 5 Black/ GoPro Hero(2018)
- Transparent dome for distortion-free photos
- Helpful line on the back for leveling shots
- Made of durable acrylic for optimal transparency and scratch resistance
- Waterproof casing securely locks GoPro
- Includes a cleaning cloth
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Pros:
- Simple, effective design for split-level shots
- Built-in level line is incredibly helpful for composition
- Durable, scratch-resistant acrylic construction
- Secure waterproof casing for peace of mind
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Cons:
- Fewer accessories compared to other kits (no floating grip, pistol trigger, or filters)
- Waterproof depth not explicitly stated, suggesting suitability for shallow water use
- No integrated filters
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User Impressions: Users appreciate its no-fuss approach and the clarity of the acrylic dome. The alignment line is particularly praised for making it easy to compose perfect split shots. It’s often recommended for those seeking a reliable, basic dome port.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is a dome port for GoPro Hero 5 and why do I need one?
A dome port is a specialized accessory for your GoPro that houses the camera inside a transparent, spherical or semi-spherical dome. It’s primarily used for “over-under” or “split-level” photography and videography, allowing you to capture both the scene above the water and below the water in a single shot. Without a dome port, the waterline distorts the image, making it difficult to get clear shots of both worlds.
Q2: How do dome ports work to create split-level photos?
Dome ports work by physically moving the waterline away from the camera’s lens. The curved surface of the dome acts as a lens, optically correcting the distortion that typically occurs when a camera lens is partially submerged in water. This allows the GoPro to focus properly on both the above-water and underwater elements, creating a seamless, clear image that captures two worlds at once.
Q3: Are all dome ports for GoPro Hero 5 fully waterproof?
Yes, all reputable dome ports for the GoPro Hero 5 are designed to be fully waterproof, as they enclose your GoPro in a secure, sealed housing. However, their waterproof depth ratings can vary. Some are suitable for snorkeling and shallow dives (e.g., 30 meters/98 feet), while others are rated for deeper diving (e.g., 60 meters/196 feet). Always check the specific product’s waterproof rating before taking it into deep water.
Q4: What features should I look for when choosing the best dome for the GoPro Hero 5?
When choosing the best dome for the GoPro Hero 5, consider:
* Compatibility: Ensure it explicitly states compatibility with Hero 5 Black (and sometimes Hero 6, 7, 2018 models).
* Waterproof Depth: Match the rating to your intended activities (snorkeling vs. diving).
* Optical Clarity: High-quality acrylic or PC materials ensure distortion-free images.
* Integrated Features: Some domes offer built-in filters (red, macro) or LCD view windows, which can be very convenient.
* Accessories: Look for kits that include floating hand grips, pistol triggers, cleaning cloths, anti-fog inserts, and protective bags.
* Build Quality: A solid, leak-proof design is crucial for protecting your valuable camera.
Q5: Can I use a dome port designed for the GoPro Hero 5 with other GoPro models?
Many dome ports designed for the GoPro Hero 5 Black are also compatible with the GoPro Hero 6 Black, Hero 7 Black, and the GoPro Hero (2018) model. This is because these cameras share a very similar form factor. However, they are generally NOT compatible with Hero 7 Silver, Hero 7 White, or older GoPro models like the Hero 4, as their dimensions and button placements differ. Always double-check the product’s compatibility list before purchasing.
Q6: How do I maintain and clean my GoPro dome port?
To ensure your dome port lasts and performs well, always rinse it thoroughly with fresh water after every use, especially after saltwater exposure, to prevent salt buildup and corrosion. Use a soft, lint-free cloth (often provided) to gently wipe the dome. Avoid abrasive materials or harsh chemicals that could scratch the acrylic. Store it in its protective bag when not in use to prevent scratches and dust accumulation.
Q7: Do dome ports affect the GoPro’s field of view or image quality?
Dome ports are designed to correct the optical distortion caused by the water’s surface, so they generally enhance image quality for split shots by making them clear and distortion-free. They don’t typically alter the GoPro’s wide field of view. However, some extremely wide-angle settings on the GoPro might still show a slight vignette around the edges of the dome, though this is rare with modern dome designs. The primary goal is to provide superior optical performance for the specific purpose of over-under photography.
Conclusion
Choosing the best dome for the GoPro Hero 5 really comes down to your specific needs and how you plan to use it. Whether you prioritize integrated filters for versatile underwater shooting like the GEPULY or SOONSUN (with filters), prefer the convenience of an LCD view like the upgraded Suptig or SOONSUN (with LCD view), or simply need a reliable, distortion-free option like the basic Suptig or TELESIN, there’s a perfect dome port out there for you.
Each of these options offers something unique, helping you transform your GoPro Hero 5 into an even more powerful tool for capturing truly epic, unique perspectives. So go ahead, pick your favorite, and get ready to create some unforgettable memories both above and below the waves!
