Even years after its release, the GoPro Hero 4 remains a fantastic little action camera, cherished by many for its robust build and solid video capabilities. If you’re still rocking a Hero 4 and want to squeeze every drop of potential out of your footage, you’re in the right place. We’re talking about getting the best for GoPro Hero 4 video, whether that means enhancing its stability, extending its shooting time, or even considering an upgrade for truly next-level visuals.
Getting crystal-clear, stable, and long-lasting video from your Hero 4 often comes down to the right gear. From the camera itself (yes, some models are still excellent choices!) to essential accessories, we’ve rounded up the top contenders to help you create stunning content. Let’s dive in and see what makes these products stand out for your GoPro Hero 4 video needs.
1. GoPro Hero – Compact Waterproof Action Camera with 4K…
While the “Hero 4” is in our title, this particular model is a testament to how far GoPro has come in terms of compact design and ease of use, making it a compelling option for anyone prioritizing portability and simplicity in their video setup. This tiny 4K powerhouse delivers impressive footage in a super-light package, perfect for grab-and-go adventures where complex controls aren’t desired. It might not be a Hero 4 accessory, but it shows how accessible high-quality, compact video recording has become, offering a sleek alternative for those who love the GoPro ecosystem.
Key Features:
– Tiny and super-light design
– Simplified controls
– Rugged construction
– Delivers 4K video capabilities
– Waterproof
Pros:
– Extremely portable and easy to carry
– User-friendly interface, ideal for beginners
– Excellent 4K video quality for its size
– Durable and waterproof without extra housing
Cons:
– Limited manual control compared to more advanced models
– Fixed battery (typically) can’t be swapped on the go
– May lack some advanced features found in larger GoPros
User Impressions: Users often praise its incredible portability and straightforward operation, making it a favorite for casual adventurers and travel vloggers. They love how easy it is to just point and shoot high-quality video without fiddling with settings.
2. GoPro HERO4 Black Edition Camera (Renewed)
The GoPro HERO4 Black Edition was a game-changer when it first arrived, and even as a renewed model, it still packs a punch for those serious about their action camera footage. This particular version offers professional-grade video capabilities, including stunning 4K30 and high frame rate 1080p120, making it a solid choice for detailed, cinematic shots or smooth slow-motion sequences. If you’re looking for the best for GoPro Hero 4 video and want the original flagship performance, a renewed Black Edition is a cost-effective way to get it.
Key Features:
– Professional 4K30, 2.7K60, and 1080p120 video
– 720p240 video for super slow-motion playback
– 12MP photos at up to 30 frames per second burst
– Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for app/Smart Remote control
– Improved camera control and built-in video trimming
– Protune with SuperView for cinema-quality capture and advanced manual control
– Night Photo and Night Lapse for customizable exposure settings
Pros:
– Excellent video quality, including 4K capabilities
– High frame rates perfect for slow-motion effects
– Advanced manual controls (Protune) for experienced users
– Versatile photo modes, including burst and night lapse
Cons:
– No built-in touchscreen (requires external display or app for framing)
– Battery life can be shorter when recording in 4K
– Renewed status might come with minor cosmetic wear
User Impressions: Many users are thrilled with the professional video quality, especially the 4K and slow-motion options. They appreciate the Protune settings for fine-tuning their shots, though some find the lack of a touchscreen a minor inconvenience.
3. GoPro Hero4 Black
The GoPro Hero4 Black is the undisputed king of its generation, setting a high bar for action camera video quality at the time. This camera continues to deliver professional-grade results, making it an excellent choice if you prioritize top-tier resolution and frame rates for your footage. Its ability to capture 4K video at 30 frames per second and incredibly smooth 1080p at 120fps means you can create stunning, detailed content or epic slow-motion clips that truly capture the action. For anyone seeking the best for GoPro Hero 4 video directly from the source, this is it.
Key Features:
– Professional 4K30, 2.7K60, and 1080p120 video
– 720p240 video for super slow-motion playback
– 12MP photos at up to 30 frames per second
– Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth support for GoPro app and Smart Remote
– Improved camera control and built-in video trimming
– Protune with SuperView for cinema-quality capture and immersive wide-angle views
– Night Photo and Night Lapse for customizable low-light shooting
Pros:
– Industry-leading video quality for its generation
– High frame rates enable dramatic slow-motion
– Comprehensive manual controls with Protune
– Robust and versatile for various shooting conditions
Cons:
– Requires external screen or app for easy shot framing
– Battery life can be a concern with heavy 4K use
– Can be more expensive than the Silver edition
User Impressions: Owners consistently praise the outstanding video and image quality, especially its performance in good lighting. They love the flexibility offered by Protune and the high frame rates for creative shots, despite the slight learning curve for new users.
4. Hohem iSteady Pro 4 Action Camera Gimbal 3-Axis Splashproof…
If you’re serious about getting super smooth, professional-looking GoPro Hero 4 video, a gimbal is an absolute must-have, and the Hohem iSteady Pro 4 stands out as a fantastic option. This 3-axis splashproof gimbal offers flawless stabilization, eliminating shaky footage even during dynamic movements, thanks to its powerful brushless motors and upgraded iSteady 5.0 anti-shake algorithm. Its great compatibility with a wide range of action cameras, including the Hero 4, means it’s a versatile tool that can elevate all your adventures.
Key Features:
– Quick Bluetooth Connection for camera control (GoPro Hero 5-13)
– IPX4 Splash Proof rating for rainy/snowy conditions
– Great compatibility with GoPro Hero 3/4/5/6/7/8/9/10/11/12/13, DJI OSMO Action, Insta360 ONE R (Note: Does not work for GoPro Hero 7 White/Silver; limited control for some models)
– Flawless stabilization with powerful brushless motor and iSteady 5.0 algorithm
– Intuitive and easy-to-use button design
– 14-hour long battery life, can also act as a power bank for action camera charging
Pros:
– Delivers exceptionally smooth and stable video
– Splashproof design expands shooting possibilities
– Long battery life with power bank function
– Wide compatibility with various action cameras
– Easy to use with simple controls
Cons:
– Limited camera control for some non-GoPro models
– Doesn’t work with GoPro Hero 7 White and Silver
– Adds extra bulk and weight to your setup
User Impressions: Users are consistently impressed by the gimbal’s ability to transform shaky handheld footage into buttery smooth, cinematic shots. The long battery life and splashproof design are frequently highlighted as major advantages for outdoor enthusiasts.
5. GoPro Hero4 Silver
The GoPro Hero4 Silver offers a fantastic balance of performance and user-friendliness, making it a top contender for the best for GoPro Hero 4 video if convenience is a priority. What truly sets the Silver apart from its Black counterpart is the built-in touch display. This intuitive screen makes framing your shots, navigating menus, and reviewing footage incredibly simple, streamlining your workflow both during and after shooting. While it tops out at 1080p60 for its highest resolution, it still delivers excellent quality, especially with the Protune feature.
Key Features:
– Built-in touch display for easy camera control, shot framing, and playback
– Professional 1080p60 and 720p120 video
– 12MP photos at up to 30 frames per second
– Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth support for GoPro app and Smart Remote
– Improved camera control and built-in video trimming
– Protune with SuperView for cinema-quality capture and immersive wide-angle views
Pros:
– Integrated touchscreen for intuitive operation
– Excellent 1080p video quality
– High frame rates for smooth slow-motion
– More user-friendly than the Black edition for casual users
– Often more affordable than the Black edition
Cons:
– Does not offer 4K video recording
– Touchscreen can be less visible in bright sunlight
– Battery life may be impacted by continuous touchscreen use
User Impressions: Many users praise the Hero4 Silver for its ease of use thanks to the touchscreen, making it ideal for everyday adventures. They find the 1080p video quality perfectly sufficient for most needs and appreciate the convenience it offers.
6. GoPro HERO13 Black in Forest Green (Limited Edition) -…
While the focus here is the GoPro Hero 4, the HERO13 Black represents the cutting edge of GoPro’s technology and is worth considering if you’re thinking about a significant upgrade for your video capabilities. Boasting best-in-class 5.3K video, this camera delivers breathtaking image quality with vastly more resolution than 4K, allowing for incredible detail and the ability to pull high-resolution stills from your footage. It’s a rugged, waterproof powerhouse designed to capture the most epic and detailed adventures, far surpassing what the Hero 4 could ever dream of for ultimate GoPro video performance.
Key Features:
– HB-Series Lenses with Auto Detection (Ultra Wide, Macro, ND, Anamorphic Lens Mods)
– Best-in-Class 5.3K video with 91% more resolution than 4K
– Burst Slo-Mo with up to 13x normal speed and 4x slo-mo in 5.3K
– Rugged + Waterproof to 33ft (10m)
– Water-repelling lens cover to minimize flare
– Includes Enduro Battery, Curved Adhesive Mount, Mounting Buckle + Thumb Screw, USB-C Cable
Pros:
– Unparalleled video resolution (5.3K) and detail
– Advanced slo-motion capabilities for creative effects
– Highly durable and waterproof without additional housing
– Smart lens system for versatile shooting
– Excellent image stabilization (not explicitly listed but implied for modern GoPros)
Cons:
– Significantly more expensive than Hero 4 options
– Might be overkill for casual users
– Larger and heavier than the original Hero 4 (though still compact)
User Impressions: Reviewers are consistently blown away by the incredible image quality and resolution, noting how much detail the camera captures. The advanced stabilization and new lens mod compatibility are also highly praised for expanding creative possibilities.
7. Batmax 3Packs AHDBT-401 1680mAh Battery + LED 3Slots USB…
You can have the best for GoPro Hero 4 video camera, but without power, it’s just a paperweight! The Batmax 3-Pack of AHDBT-401 1680mAh batteries, coupled with a 3-slot LED USB charger, is an absolute lifesaver for extending your shooting sessions. These replacement batteries are specifically designed for the GoPro HERO4 Black/Silver, providing reliable, long-lasting power so you never miss a shot. Having multiple batteries and a convenient charger ensures your Hero 4 is always ready to capture all the action, making it an essential accessory for any serious videographer.
Key Features:
– Compatible with GoPro HERO4 Black/Silver Battery (AHDBT-401)
– Capacity: 1680mAh; Voltage: 3.7V
– Premium Grade A cells for longer battery life with no memory effect
– CE certified and tested to match OEM products
– Package includes 3 replacement batteries, 3-Slots LED USB Charger, USB Charging Cable, and Manual
Pros:
– Significantly extends shooting time for your Hero 4
– Multiple batteries mean continuous power
– Convenient 3-slot charger for efficient charging
– Cost-effective alternative to OEM batteries
– CE certified for safety and reliability
Cons:
– Not compatible with newer GoPro models
– Charger requires a USB power source (not included)
– Third-party batteries might sometimes have slightly less accurate battery indicators
User Impressions: Users frequently express satisfaction with the extended recording time these batteries provide. They appreciate the value of getting three batteries and a charger in one pack, noting that it’s a “must-have” for long shooting days.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Is the GoPro Hero 4 still good for video in 2024?
A1: Yes, absolutely! While newer models offer higher resolutions and more advanced features, the GoPro Hero 4 Black and Silver still deliver excellent 1080p and even 4K (Black edition) video quality that’s perfectly suitable for most uses, especially with the right accessories and editing. For many, it remains a reliable and affordable option for high-quality action footage.
Q2: What’s the best way to stabilize GoPro Hero 4 video?
A2: The best way to stabilize GoPro Hero 4 video is by using a 3-axis gimbal, like the Hohem iSteady Pro 4 reviewed above. While some post-production software can help, a physical gimbal provides real-time, buttery-smooth stabilization, which is far superior for eliminating shakes and jitters.
Q3: How can I improve the battery life of my GoPro Hero 4?
A3: To improve battery life, reduce resolution (e.g., from 4K to 1080p), lower the frame rate, turn off Wi-Fi/Bluetooth when not in use, and use external power banks or multiple spare batteries (like the Batmax 3-pack). Using the LCD BacPac less frequently on the Hero 4 Black can also help.
Q4: Can the GoPro Hero 4 shoot 4K video?
A4: Yes, the GoPro Hero 4 Black Edition can shoot 4K video at 30 frames per second. The Hero 4 Silver Edition, however, is limited to 1080p at 60 frames per second as its highest resolution.
Q5: What are essential accessories for GoPro Hero 4 videography?
A5: Essential accessories for GoPro Hero 4 videography include:
* Spare Batteries: Crucial for extended shooting.
* Gimbal: For smooth, stabilized footage.
* MicroSD Cards: High-speed (UHS-I Speed Class 3/U3) cards with ample storage.
* Various Mounts: For different perspectives (chest, head, bike, suction cup).
* Protective Housing: Especially for extreme sports or deeper water.
* Filters: ND (Neutral Density) filters for bright conditions, polarizing filters.
Q6: What frame rates does the GoPro Hero 4 support for video?
A6: The GoPro Hero 4 Black supports a wide range, including 4K at 30fps, 2.7K at 60fps, 1080p at 120fps, and even 720p at 240fps for super slow-motion. The Hero 4 Silver supports 1080p at 60fps and 720p at 120fps.
Q7: Should I upgrade from a GoPro Hero 4 for better video quality?
A7: If you frequently shoot in low light, need significantly better stabilization without a gimbal, or desire higher resolutions like 5.3K, newer models like the GoPro HERO13 Black offer substantial improvements. However, for good lighting and general action, your Hero 4 can still deliver fantastic results, especially when paired with the right accessories. It really depends on your specific needs and budget.
