Got a trusty GoPro Hero 5? It’s a classic, no doubt! Back in its day, the Hero 5 Black was a game-changer, bringing waterproof design and voice control to the masses. But let’s be real, the world of action cameras has zoomed forward since then. If you’re still rocking your Hero 5 and want to take your video content to the next level – whether that means boosting your current setup or looking for a serious upgrade – you’re in the right place.
We’re diving deep into the best gear for video on GoPro Hero 5, exploring a mix of essential accessories that can supercharge your existing camera, as well as showcasing the latest and greatest GoPro models that offer incredible leaps in video quality if you’re ready to make the jump. From crystal-clear audio to cinematic stabilization, we’ve got the lowdown on what makes these products shine. Ready to make your footage look professional? Let’s check them out!
1. GoPro HERO13 Black – Waterproof Action Camera with 5.3K60
If you’re a GoPro Hero 5 owner eyeing the pinnacle of action camera technology, the HERO13 Black is where it’s at. This isn’t just an upgrade; it’s a quantum leap, offering best-in-class 5.3K60 video that makes your old footage look like ancient history. Designed for serious creators, its legendary durability means it can handle pretty much anything you throw at it, making it an incredible choice if you’re truly seeking the best gear for video on GoPro Hero 5 by replacing the Hero 5 entirely. It’s packed with new HB-Series Lenses and a more powerful battery, ensuring you capture stunning, long-lasting footage every single time.
- Key Features:
- Best-in-class 5.3K60 video resolution
- Legendary GoPro durability and waterproof design
- New HB-Series Lenses for enhanced optical performance
- More powerful battery for extended shooting
- Pros:
- Unparalleled video quality and detail
- Extremely robust and reliable for extreme conditions
- Improved battery life compared to previous models
- Advanced features for professional-grade content
- Cons:
- Premium price point, as expected for a flagship camera
- Significant learning curve for new advanced features if coming from Hero 5
- User Impressions: Users rave about the stunning image quality and the incredibly smooth stabilization, noting it makes even the shakiest adventures look professionally shot. Many highlight the ease of use despite its advanced capabilities.
- See it on Amazon here
2. Taisioner Windslayer Cover Housing Frame Case for GoPro
One of the common headaches for GoPro Hero 5 users shooting video, especially outdoors, is wind noise. The Taisioner Windslayer is a simple yet incredibly effective solution designed specifically to combat this. Made from a special, soft sponge material, this windslayer dramatically reduces unwanted noise, letting your Hero 5’s microphone capture clearer, more natural audio. It’s lightweight, portable, and flexible, and crucially, its precise hole design won’t interfere with your video quality. This is a must-have accessory if you want to improve the audio aspect of your best gear for video on GoPro Hero 5 setup without buying a new camera.
- Key Features:
- Compatible with GoPro Hero 5, 6, 7 Black (requires protective housing/frame)
- Effectively reduces wind noise for clearer audio
- Made of soft, lightweight, portable, and flexible sponge material
- Precise cutouts ensure no impact on video quality or sound pickup
- Ideal for gale weather and strenuous activities
- Pros:
- Significantly improves audio quality in windy conditions
- Easy to install and remove
- Inexpensive and highly effective
- Doesn’t add noticeable bulk or weight
- Cons:
- Requires a protective housing/frame for use (not compatible with waterproof case)
- Can make the camera slightly larger
- User Impressions: Customers consistently praise its effectiveness in eliminating wind noise, calling it a “game-changer” for outdoor vlogging and action sports. They love how such a simple accessory can make such a big difference.
- See it on Amazon here
3. GoPro HERO12 Black – Waterproof Action Camera with 5.3K60
The GoPro HERO12 Black is another fantastic contender for anyone looking to upgrade from their Hero 5 for vastly superior video capabilities. It pushes image quality boundaries with High Dynamic Range (HDR) for both videos and photos, ensuring incredible detail in both bright and shadowy scenes – something your Hero 5 struggles with. With 5.3K video resolution and Emmy Award-winning HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilization, your footage will be unbelievably crisp and silky smooth, even in the most chaotic environments. Plus, it’s rugged and waterproof right out of the box, just like you’d expect from a GoPro.
- Key Features:
- High Dynamic Range (HDR) for videos (5.3K and 4K) and photos
- Unbelievable 5.3K video resolution (91% more than 4K) and 27MP photos
- Emmy Award-Winning HyperSmooth 6.0 Stabilization
- Rugged and waterproof to 33ft (10m)
- Water-repelling lens cover to minimize flare
- Pros:
- Stunning video quality with excellent detail and color
- Industry-leading stabilization makes gimbals almost obsolete
- HDR captures a wider range of light and shadow
- Extremely durable and ready for any adventure
- Cons:
- Still a significant investment compared to just accessorizing a Hero 5
- Battery life, while improved, can still be a concern for very long shoots
- User Impressions: Users are constantly amazed by the stabilization and HDR capabilities, noting how much better their footage looks straight out of the camera. The video quality is frequently described as “cinematic.”
- See it on Amazon here
4. GoPro Hero12 Black E-Commerce Package – Waterproof Action Camera
For those ready to fully embrace a next-generation video experience beyond their Hero 5, the GoPro Hero12 Black E-Commerce Package offers exceptional value. It includes everything you need to get started: the HERO12 Black camera, an Enduro battery (offering significantly longer runtime – up to 70 minutes at 5.3K60!), a charging cable, and essential mounts. This package delivers all the mind-blowing features of the standalone HERO12 Black, like HDR video, 5.3K resolution, and HyperSmooth 6.0, but with the added benefit of improved battery life and a complete starter kit. It truly represents a strong contender for the best gear for video on GoPro Hero 5 if you’re looking for an all-in-one upgrade.
- Key Features:
- Includes HERO12 Black camera, Enduro battery, USB-C cable, mounts
- Rugged and waterproof to 33ft (10m)
- 2x Longer Runtime (up to 70 mins at 5.3K60) with Enduro battery
- Unbelievable 5.3K video and 27MP photos with HDR
- Emmy Award-Winning HyperSmooth 6.0 Stabilization and 360° Horizon Lock
- Extra-Large Field of View and Up to 8x Slo-Mo
- Bluetooth Audio Connectivity for external mics/earbuds
- Pros:
- Complete package, ready to shoot out of the box
- Vastly improved battery life is a huge plus
- All the cutting-edge features of the HERO12 Black
- Bluetooth audio adds versatility for vlogging and interviews
- Cons:
- Higher initial cost due to being a package
- Still requires learning new camera functions if unfamiliar with modern GoPros
- User Impressions: Buyers love the convenience of the package and the noticeable improvement in battery life. The combination of features and included accessories makes it a highly recommended choice for new and upgrading users alike.
- See it on Amazon here
5. COOLSHOW Hero 7 6 5 Battery Replacement (2 Packs) and Triple Charger
If you’re committed to keeping your GoPro Hero 5 running strong, extended battery life is key for longer video shoots. The COOLSHOW Battery Replacement kit is an absolute lifesaver. It includes two high-capacity 1220mAh batteries and a triple charger, allowing you to power up two batteries simultaneously. No more worrying about your Hero 5 dying mid-shoot! With multiple layers of protection and flawless compatibility, these batteries work exactly like the original GoPro ones, ensuring dependable power for your adventures. This is an essential accessory if you want to maximize your existing Hero 5’s video recording time.
- Key Features:
- Includes 2 x 1220mAh batteries and 1 triple charger
- Simultaneous charging for two batteries with LCD display
- High capacity to keep your Hero 5/6/7 running all day
- Four-layer protection (over-charging, short-circuit, high-temperature, surge)
- Flawless compatibility with GoPro Hero 5/6/7 Black and Hero 2018 camera
- Pros:
- Doubles your Hero 5’s shooting time
- Convenient triple charger speeds up charging
- Reliable and safe with multiple protections
- Cost-effective alternative to official GoPro batteries
- Cons:
- Third-party batteries, though highly rated, might not feel as “premium” as originals
- Still limited by the Hero 5’s overall power efficiency
- User Impressions: Users frequently praise the extended battery life and the convenience of the triple charger, calling it “essential” for longer trips and shoots. Many note that the batteries perform as well as the original GoPro batteries.
- See it on Amazon here
6. GoPro HERO13 Black Ultra Wide Edition – Waterproof Action Camera
For the ultimate immersive video experience, especially if you’re upgrading from a Hero 5, the GoPro HERO13 Black Ultra Wide Edition is a specialized beast. It comes with the Ultra Wide Lens Mod pre-attached, giving you an astonishing 177° field of view right out of the box – that’s 36% wider and 48% taller than the standard HERO13 Black FOV! This means you capture more sky, more horizon, and more of the action, making your POV footage incredibly immersive. Paired with unbreakable HyperSmooth stabilization and pro-quality 4K60 video, this camera is built for epic landscapes and dynamic action, offering a completely new perspective on the best gear for video on GoPro Hero 5 by providing a superior filming platform.
- Key Features:
- Comes with Ultra Wide Lens Mod attached for 177° FOV
- Boosts field of view significantly (36% wider, 48% taller)
- Pro-Quality 4K60 video resolution
- Unbreakable HyperSmooth Stabilization in every resolution
- Easy Vertical Capture for social media
- Includes Enduro Battery and complete camera kit
- Pros:
- Extremely immersive, expansive field of view
- Unbeatable stabilization for smooth footage
- Perfect for capturing vast landscapes, action sports, and POV
- Dedicated vertical shooting mode is a huge win for social media creators
- Cons:
- Ultra-wide perspective isn’t suitable for all types of shooting
- Premium cost for this specialized edition
- User Impressions: Reviewers are blown away by the immersive footage, stating it truly feels like you’re “right there” in the action. The added versatility of vertical capture for platforms like TikTok is also highly appreciated.
- See it on Amazon here
7. GoPro HERO11 Black – E-Commerce Packaging – Waterproof Action Camera
The GoPro HERO11 Black, even as a slightly older model, is still a phenomenal upgrade from the Hero 5, especially if you’re seeking outstanding video quality and a revolutionary image sensor. This E-Commerce Package provides a comprehensive solution for capturing incredible footage. Its new image sensor offers the most expansive field of view ever on a HERO camera (at its release), allowing you to capture more of the scene. With 5.3K60 video and an incredible 27MP photos (plus 2.7K240 for 8x slo-mo!), your videos will be stunningly crisp. Add to that the Emmy Award-Winning HyperSmooth 5.0, and you’ve got a professional-grade video tool that easily secures its place among the best gear for video on GoPro Hero 5 upgrades.
- Key Features:
- Revolutionary New Image Sensor for expansive field of view
- 5.3K60 video resolution and 27MP photos
- High Frame Rate: 2.7K240 video for 8x slo-mo
- Emmy Award-Winning HyperSmooth 5.0 Stabilization with Horizon Lock
- Water-repelling lens cover
- Includes Enduro Battery, mounts, and USB-C Cable
- Pros:
- Exceptional image and video quality, massive upgrade from Hero 5
- Flexible post-production thanks to the large sensor
- Super smooth and stable footage in any condition
- Great for slow-motion effects
- Cons:
- While a great value, it’s still a significant investment over accessories
- Some users might find the features overwhelming if new to modern GoPros
- User Impressions: Users love the versatility of the new sensor and the ability to crop and reframe footage without losing quality. The stabilization and high frame rates are frequently highlighted as standout features for capturing dynamic action.
- See it on Amazon here
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About GoPro Hero 5 Video & Upgrades
Q1: Is the GoPro Hero 5 still good for video in 2024?
A1: While the GoPro Hero 5 Black was groundbreaking in its time with 4K30 video and decent stabilization, newer GoPro models offer significantly better video quality (up to 5.3K60+), vastly superior image stabilization (HyperSmooth), improved low-light performance, and advanced features like HDR. For casual use, it’s fine, but for professional or high-quality content, it shows its age.
Q2: What’s the biggest limitation of the GoPro Hero 5 for video compared to newer models?
A2: The biggest limitation is its stabilization (lacking the advanced HyperSmooth of newer models), lower maximum resolution/frame rates (4K30), and less dynamic range in challenging lighting. Audio quality without accessories can also be a weak point, especially in windy conditions.
Q3: How can I improve my GoPro Hero 5’s video quality without buying a new camera?
A3: You can significantly improve your Hero 5’s video by:
1. Improving Audio: Use a windslayer like the Taisioner or an external microphone adapter.
2. Extended Battery Life: Invest in extra high-capacity batteries (like COOLSHOW).
3. Better Lighting: Shoot in well-lit environments or use external lights for low-light situations.
4. Editing: Utilize post-production software for color grading, stabilization, and cropping.
5. Mounts: Use stable mounts to reduce camera shake.
Q4: Is upgrading from a GoPro Hero 5 to a Hero 11, 12, or 13 worth it for video?
A4: Absolutely! The jump in video quality, image stabilization, low-light performance, and overall feature set (like HDR, higher frame rates for slow-mo, and larger sensors) from a Hero 5 to a Hero 11, 12, or 13 is massive. If video quality is your priority, it’s a worthwhile investment.
Q5: What’s “HyperSmooth” and why is it important for video?
A5: HyperSmooth is GoPro’s advanced in-camera electronic image stabilization (EIS) technology. It’s crucial because it smooths out shaky footage, making it look incredibly fluid and professional, even when you’re running, biking, or experiencing heavy vibrations. The Hero 5 has basic EIS, but HyperSmooth (from Hero 7 onwards) is a game-changer.
Q6: Can I use older GoPro accessories, like mounts, with the new GoPro models?
A6: Generally, yes! Most GoPro mounts and mounting buckles are designed to be universally compatible across generations. However, specific accessories like battery doors, protective housings, or lens mods are typically model-specific due to variations in camera size and design.
Q7: What does “High Dynamic Range (HDR)” mean for GoPro video?
A7: HDR in GoPro video captures more detail in both the brightest and darkest parts of a scene simultaneously. This prevents blown-out highlights (overexposed bright areas) and crushed shadows (underexposed dark areas), resulting in footage with truer-to-life colors and richer detail, especially in challenging lighting conditions like sunsets or bright daylight with deep shadows.
