Looking to supercharge your mobile content creation? Combining the rugged durability and incredible video capabilities of a GoPro Hero 4 with the convenience of your iPhone is a fantastic way to do it! While the Hero 4 might be a classic, its professional-grade capture still holds up, especially when paired with the powerful editing and sharing features of an iPhone. The trick isn’t just the camera; it’s also about having the right accessories to get those unique shots.
Whether you’re hitting the trails, diving into the ocean, or just capturing everyday life from a unique perspective, finding the best GoPro Hero 4 for iPhone setup involves more than just the camera itself. It’s about how you mount it, how you connect, and how easily you can transform raw footage into shareable content right from your pocket. We’ve rounded up some top GoPros (including the Hero 4 itself!) and versatile accessories that help bridge the gap between your action camera and your smartphone, making your iPhone an integral part of your mobile filmmaking kit. Let’s dive in!
1. GoPro Hero – Compact Waterproof Action Camera with 4K
This compact GoPro Hero offers a modern take on the classic action camera experience. While not specifically the Hero 4, it embodies the spirit of GoPro with its tiny, rugged design and straightforward controls. It’s an excellent choice for anyone seeking a durable, go-anywhere camera that captures impressive 4K video, making it a stellar companion to your iPhone for quick edits and uploads on the go. Its simplicity means less fuss and more filming, allowing you to focus on the moment.
Key Features:
– Tiny and easy-to-use design
– Rugged and super-light build
– Simplified controls
– Captures 4K video
Pros:
– Extremely portable and durable
– User-friendly interface, ideal for beginners
– Excellent 4K video quality for its size
– Integrates well with the GoPro app on iPhone for control and transfer
Cons:
– More limited manual controls compared to higher-end models
– Battery life can be shorter due to compact size
User Impressions: Users love how incredibly portable and robust this little camera is, often praising its ease of use for capturing spontaneous moments. Many appreciate the crisp 4K footage and seamless integration with their iPhones for quick content creation. It’s a popular choice for adventurers and casual users alike.
2. NEEWER Magnetic Neck Mount Compatible with GoPro Hero 13…
For hands-free, immersive point-of-view (POV) shots, the NEEWER Magnetic Neck Mount is an absolute game-changer. Designed to be worn like a necklace, it positions your GoPro (or iPhone!) perfectly to capture exactly what you see. Its magnetic quick-release system is incredibly convenient, allowing for swift attachment and detachment, while the flexible neck strap ensures comfort and adaptability. This accessory really elevates your ability to capture the world from a first-person perspective, making it a fantastic tool when using the best GoPro Hero 4 for iPhone combo for vlogging or action sports.
Key Features:
– Neck mount holder for POV shots
– Magnetic quick release/locking mechanism
– Flexible 180° angle adjustment and 360° swivel J hook
– Comfortable and bendable silicone and metal wire material
– Wide compatibility with GoPro Hero (including Hero 4), Insta360, DJI Osmo Action, and phones (2.2″-3.3″ wide)
Pros:
– Provides highly immersive first-person footage
– Extremely easy and fast to attach/detach
– Very flexible for various shooting angles (vertical/horizontal)
– Comfortable for extended wear
– Compatible with both action cameras and smartphones
Cons:
– May not be ideal for very high-impact activities where the camera could swing
– Can be visible in some shots depending on clothing
User Impressions: Customers rave about the convenience and unique perspective this mount offers. The magnetic quick-release feature is frequently highlighted as a major benefit, making it simple to switch between devices or take a quick break. Users find it comfortable and surprisingly stable for walking, hiking, and casual vlogging.
3. PellKing Mobile Phone Chest Strap Harness Mount Head Strap…
The PellKing Mobile Phone Chest and Head Strap Harness Mount offers dual versatility for hands-free video capture. This kit is a brilliant idea to transform your smartphone into an action camera, or to give your GoPro Hero 4 new POV possibilities. By freeing your hands, it allows you to record stable footage of your adventures, showing exactly what you see. The inclusion of both chest and head straps means you can choose different shooting heights to suit various activities, from mountain biking to skiing, making it a truly versatile tool for any adventurer.
Key Features:
– Great for life-record shooting and POV capture
– Versatile with head strap and chest strap mounts
– Wide compatibility: fits 4-7 inch smartphones, all GoPro Hero series (including Hero 4), DJI OSMO Action, Insta360, AKASO, SJCAM
– Suitable for various action sports (mountain biking, skiing, etc.)
– Includes a small wrench for secure phone holder tightening
Pros:
– Offers two distinct POV perspectives (head and chest)
– Frees up your hands for activities
– Ensures stable shooting status
– Broad compatibility with both phones and action cameras
– Durable and confident quality
Cons:
– Can feel a bit bulky for some users, especially the chest strap
– Might require minor adjustments to get the perfect fit
User Impressions: Reviewers love the versatility of having both head and chest mounts in one package. They frequently mention how secure their phone or GoPro feels during activities, providing confidence in capturing steady, first-person footage. The ease of use and broad compatibility are also big selling points.
4. PellKing Jaws Flex Clamp Smartphone Mount with Adjustable…
When you need to mount your camera or phone just about anywhere, the PellKing Jaws Flex Clamp Mount is your go-to. This ingenious accessory features a super-strong clamp that attaches to objects from 0.25″ to 2″ in diameter, combined with an upgraded 13-section flexible gooseneck arm. This allows for an incredible range of unique shooting angles, transforming mundane locations into dynamic filming spots. Whether you’re clamping your GoPro Hero 4 for iPhone recording setup to a bike handlebar, a desk, or even a tree branch, this mount provides rock-solid stability and unparalleled flexibility.
Key Features:
– Wide compatibility: fits 4-7” smartphones (iPhone, Samsung, Google Pixel) and most action cameras (GoPro all series, Sony, DJI Osmo, Insta360)
– Super power jaws flex clamp mount for objects 0.25″ to 2″ in diameter
– Upgraded flexible 13-section gooseneck for versatile angles
– Extremely durable and strong construction
– Can be used together or separately (jaws clamp and gooseneck)
Pros:
– Incredibly versatile for mounting on various surfaces/objects
– Strong and secure clamp provides great stability
– Flexible gooseneck allows for creative and unique shooting angles
– Compatible with both phones and action cameras
– Lightweight and portable
Cons:
– Gooseneck might vibrate slightly in high-motion scenarios
– Can be a bit unwieldy if not used in a stationary setup
User Impressions: Users are impressed by the clamp’s strength and the gooseneck’s flexibility, calling it a highly versatile tool for creative shots. Many highlight its usefulness for capturing time-lapses, vlogging from different perspectives, and securing their devices in unusual places. It’s praised for its durability and adaptability.
5. GoPro Hero4 Black
Here it is: the legendary GoPro Hero4 Black, the camera that set a benchmark for action cameras. Even today, its professional 4K30, 2.7K60, and 1080P120 video capabilities, plus 12MP photos at 30 frames per second, make it a powerhouse. For those specifically looking for the best GoPro Hero 4 for iPhone pairing, this model’s built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are crucial. These features allow seamless connection to the GoPro app on your iPhone for remote control, live preview, and quick content transfer, transforming your smartphone into a remote control and editing suite for this classic camera.
Key Features:
– Professional 4K30, 2.7K60, 1080P120 video capture
– 720P240 video for super slow-motion playback
– 12MP photos at up to 30 frames per second
– Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for GoPro app/Smart Remote
– Improved camera control and built-in video trimming
– Protune with SuperView for cinema-quality capture
– Night Photo and Night Lapse modes with customizable exposure
Pros:
– Still delivers exceptional video and photo quality
– Excellent low-light performance with Protune
– Robust Wi-Fi/Bluetooth connectivity for iPhone integration
– Versatile frame rates for various shooting needs
– Durable and reliable for extreme conditions
Cons:
– Older model, so battery life might not be as optimized as newer GoPros
– Touchscreen interface is less intuitive than modern GoPros
– Requires an external display or phone for live preview (no built-in screen)
User Impressions: Despite its age, loyal users continue to praise the Hero4 Black for its outstanding image quality and robust build. Many appreciate the extensive manual controls offered by Protune and its ability to capture stunning slow-motion footage. The seamless pairing with the iPhone app for quick viewing and sharing remains a strong point.
6. GEPULY Magnetic Neck Mount+Chest Mount for iPhone GoPro…
The GEPULY Magnetic Neck Mount and Chest Mount combo takes hands-free filming to another level with its clever magnetic design and dual functionality. This POV mount is not only smooth and comfortable but also incredibly versatile. Its quick-release magnetic system allows for instant attachment and removal, and it can even attach to magnetic surfaces. What truly sets it apart is its ability to seamlessly switch between a neck mount and a chest/shoulder strap mount, offering multiple angles and incredible flexibility for capturing dynamic content with your GoPro Hero 4 or iPhone.
Key Features:
– Smooth and comfortable POV mount design
– Magnetic quick-release system for firm fixing
– Multiple angles: supports rotation in 4 directions (horizontal to vertical, left to right)
– Can be quickly removed and attached to magnetic walls, tabletops, or poles
– Wide compatibility: Universal for DJI, Insta360, Akaso, GoPro Hero (including Hero 4), and phones (2-3.3 inch expandable width)
– Includes phone clip and 1/4-20 mount
Pros:
– Extremely quick and secure magnetic attachment/detachment
– Offers multiple POV perspectives (neck, chest, shoulder, magnetic surface)
– Very comfortable and discreet under clothing
– Wide compatibility with both action cameras and smartphones
– Stable for various activities
Cons:
– Magnetic strength is great, but ensure correct alignment for secure attachment
– Might not be ideal for very heavy phones without additional support
User Impressions: Users absolutely love the magnetic quick-release feature, finding it incredibly convenient for fast setup and adjustments. The comfort of the neck strap and the versatility of switching to a shoulder mount are frequently highlighted. Many use it for vlogging, hiking, and even podcasting, praising its stability and ease of use with both GoPros and iPhones.
7. Mobile Phone Chest Strap Harness Mount Head Strap Holder…
Much like its counterpart, the MEKICOWL Mobile Phone Chest Strap Harness Mount and Head Strap Holder delivers exceptional versatility for capturing first-person perspective footage with your smartphone or action camera. This kit is built for speed and adaptability, featuring a quick-release design that lets you switch between head and chest mounts in seconds without needing tools. It’s perfectly compatible with your iPhone and various GoPro models, including the Hero 4, making it an indispensable tool for adventurers who want to record their activities hands-free, whether it’s skiing, cycling, or kayaking.
Key Features:
– Ideal compatibility with iPhone, Samsung, GoPro Hero (including Hero 4), DJI OSMO Action, Insta360, AKASO, SJCAM
– Quick release design for instant disarming and switching between head/chest
– Tool-less locking mechanism for rapid adjustments
– Wide range of applications: skiing, hiking, snowboarding, biking, kayaking, etc.
– Provides first-person view (FPV) shooting for real-picture representation
– Includes a small wrench for secure phone holder tightening
Pros:
– Extremely fast to switch between head and chest mounts
– Very easy to use with its tool-less design
– Highly compatible with both phones and action cameras
– Great for stable, hands-free POV recording
– Durable and reliable for action sports
Cons:
– Comfort can vary depending on body type and activity
– Phone holder needs to be securely tightened with the provided wrench
User Impressions: Users highly recommend this kit for its quick-release functionality and the convenience of having both head and chest mounts. They appreciate how easily they can record their outdoor activities from a first-person perspective, praising the stability and compatibility with both their iPhones and GoPro Hero 4 cameras.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Why would I use a GoPro Hero 4 with my iPhone in today’s market?
A1: The GoPro Hero 4 Black is still a powerful camera capable of professional 4K video, and it’s often available at a more affordable price than newer models. Pairing it with your iPhone allows you to leverage your phone’s excellent screen for live preview (via the GoPro app), quick remote control, instant video transfer, and powerful mobile editing apps. It’s a cost-effective way to get high-quality action footage and manage it on the go.
Q2: Can I control my GoPro Hero 4 directly with my iPhone?
A2: Yes, absolutely! The GoPro Hero 4 Black and Silver models have built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. By downloading the official GoPro Quik app on your iPhone, you can connect to your GoPro Hero 4 to remotely control recording, change settings, live preview your shots, and even transfer content directly to your phone for editing and sharing.
Q3: What types of accessories are essential for using my GoPro Hero 4 with an iPhone?
A3: Essential accessories often include a sturdy phone mount (especially if you want to use your iPhone as an action camera itself), a chest strap or head strap for POV shots, and flexible clamps or tripods for versatile mounting. Memory cards, spare batteries, and a good protective case are also highly recommended for your GoPro.
Q4: Are these GoPro Hero 4 accessories compatible with newer iPhones or other GoPro models?
A4: Many action camera accessories are designed with universal compatibility in mind, especially those with standard GoPro-style mounts or adjustable phone clamps. The products listed in this article are generally compatible with a wide range of iPhones (usually 4-7 inches) and various GoPro Hero models, including the Hero 4 and much newer versions. Always check the product description for specific compatibility details.
Q5: How do I transfer footage from my GoPro Hero 4 to my iPhone quickly?
A5: The easiest way is via the GoPro Quik app. Connect your GoPro Hero 4 to your iPhone using Wi-Fi through the app. You can then browse your GoPro’s media, select clips or photos, and download them directly to your iPhone’s camera roll. For larger files or multiple clips, connecting the GoPro to a computer and then transferring to your iPhone via iTunes or cloud services might be faster.
Q6: Is the GoPro Hero 4 still a good camera for action sports and vlogging in [current year]?
A6: While newer GoPros offer better stabilization and more advanced features, the Hero 4 Black still holds its own for many users. Its 4K video quality is excellent, and it’s incredibly durable. For action sports, it’s still reliable, especially if mounted securely. For vlogging, pairing it with an iPhone for monitoring and editing makes it a very capable, budget-friendly setup. Its robust manual controls also appeal to those who like more creative control.
Q7: What does “POV” shooting mean, and why is it popular with GoPros and iPhones?
A7: POV stands for “Point of View.” POV shooting captures footage from the perspective of the person wearing or holding the camera, showing exactly what they are seeing and experiencing. It’s popular with GoPros because their compact size and wide-angle lenses are perfect for immersive, hands-free recording with mounts like head straps or chest harnesses. When combined with an iPhone for immediate sharing, it creates compelling and engaging content that puts viewers right in the action.
