Compare Action Camera 720p Dimensions to GoPro Hero 5 Easily

Comparing 720p action camera dimensions to the GoPro Hero 5 reveals key size and design differences that impact portability and mounting options. The Hero 5 is slightly bulkier but offers rugged durability and standardized accessories, while budget 720p models often prioritize compact, lightweight builds—ideal for casual use. This quick comparison helps choose the right fit for your adventure needs.

Key Takeaways

• Size matters: Compare 720p camera dimensions to Hero 5 for portability.
• Mount compatibility: Check if 720p cameras fit Hero 5 mounts.
• Weight differences: Hero 5 is heavier—consider for long shoots.
• Compact advantage: Smaller 720p cams excel in tight spaces.
• Durability check: Hero 5’s rugged build beats many 720p models.
• Resolution trade-off: Hero 5 offers 4K, but 720p saves storage.

Why Size Matters When Choosing Your Action Camera

Imagine you’re about to hit the surf, ready to catch your first wave of the day, and your camera slips out of your grip. Or you’re mountain biking down a rocky trail, and your bulky camera bounces around, making it hard to secure. These moments happen all too often—and the culprit? The size and dimensions of your action camera.

When comparing an action camera 720p to the GoPro Hero 5, it’s easy to get caught up in specs like resolution, frame rate, and battery life. But what about the physical dimensions? How big is it in your hand? Does it fit in your pocket? Can you mount it on a helmet without it feeling like a brick? These questions matter more than you might think—especially if you’re using your camera in tight spaces, extreme conditions, or want something lightweight and unobtrusive.

Understanding the Basics: What Do We Mean by “Dimensions”?

Physical Size and Weight

When we talk about action camera 720p dimensions, we’re referring to three key measurements: height, width, and depth (thickness), usually in millimeters or inches. Weight—often measured in grams—also plays a big role, especially when you’re mounting the camera on a helmet, chest strap, or drone.

For example, a smaller camera might be 50mm x 40mm x 25mm and weigh just 80 grams. The GoPro Hero 5, on the other hand, measures 62mm x 44.6mm x 33.7mm and weighs about 118 grams (without housing). That might not sound like much, but over a long day of filming, every gram counts.

Think about it: if you’re skiing all day with a chest-mounted camera, a lighter, more compact unit will feel less fatiguing. And if you’re traveling with multiple mounts or accessories, smaller cameras take up less space in your backpack.

Mounting and Compatibility

Size affects how well your camera fits into standard mounts. Most action cameras use the same mounting system—a “GoPro-style” rail—but not all cameras are the same shape or thickness. A slimmer 720p camera might slide into a mount more easily or sit flatter against your helmet, reducing wind resistance during high-speed activities.

Here’s a real-world example: I once used a budget 720p camera on a bike helmet. It was so compact that it barely protruded, which meant less drag and fewer worries about it catching on low branches. When I switched to a slightly larger model (still 720p), the wind noise increased noticeably, and I had to adjust the angle more carefully.

Tip: Always check the mounting depth. A camera that’s too thick might not fit securely in a standard housing, or it could cause wobble when mounted. The GoPro Hero 5, while slightly bulkier, uses a secure, standardized mount that’s compatible with thousands of accessories—something many budget 720p cameras can’t match.

GoPro Hero 5 Dimensions: A Benchmark for Action Cameras

Exact Measurements and Weight

The GoPro Hero 5 Black is a well-known standard in the action camera world. Its dimensions are:

• Height: 62 mm (2.44 in)
• Width: 44.6 mm (1.76 in)
• Depth: 33.7 mm (1.33 in)
• Weight (without housing): 118 g (4.16 oz)
• Weight (with housing): ~138 g (4.87 oz)

These numbers might seem small, but they’re significant when you compare them to smaller 720p models. The Hero 5 is designed with a rugged, slightly boxy shape that houses a larger sensor, a touchscreen on the back, and internal stabilization—features that take up space.

One thing I love about the Hero 5’s design is that it feels solid in your hand. It doesn’t feel like it’s going to break if you drop it. But if you’re looking for something ultra-discreet or want to mount it in a tight space (like on a drone or a pet harness), the size might be a drawback.

Design and Ergonomics

The Hero 5 has a slightly curved back and a flat front, making it easy to grip and mount. The touchscreen is a big plus—it makes navigation intuitive, especially when you’re in the middle of an activity and can’t fiddle with tiny buttons.

However, the depth (33.7 mm) is noticeable. If you’re using a chest mount, the camera sticks out more than a slimmer model. On a recent hiking trip, I noticed that the Hero 5 would occasionally catch on my backpack strap when I bent over. A friend using a smaller 720p camera had no such issues.

Another point: the Hero 5’s battery and memory card are accessed via a side door. This design keeps the camera waterproof without a housing, but it also adds to the overall thickness. Budget 720p cameras often use a removable back door, which can make them slimmer but less waterproof.

720p Action Cameras: Compact, Lightweight, and Affordable

Typical Dimensions Across Popular Models

Most budget-friendly 720p action cameras are designed with portability in mind. While exact specs vary by brand and model, here’s a general range you’ll see:

• Height: 45–55 mm (1.77–2.17 in)
• Width: 35–45 mm (1.38–1.77 in)
• Depth: 20–30 mm (0.79–1.18 in)
• Weight: 60–90 g (2.1–3.2 oz)

For example, the Akaso EK7000 (a popular 720p/1080p hybrid) measures 59mm x 41mm x 24mm and weighs 64g. The Victure AC700 is even smaller at 52mm x 40mm x 23mm and 60g. These cameras are often 20–30% smaller in volume than the GoPro Hero 5.

The smaller size makes them perfect for:

• Mounting on small drones (like toy or mini drones)
• Attaching to pets (dogs, cats, birds)
• Using in tight spaces (under a skateboard, inside a kayak)
• Carrying in a pocket without bulging

I once used a tiny 720p camera on a remote-controlled car. The GoPro Hero 5 was too heavy and bulky—it made the car tilt forward and wobble. The smaller camera? Perfect fit, no balance issues.

Trade-offs: Size vs. Features

Here’s the catch: smaller size often means fewer features. Many 720p cameras:

• Have smaller sensors (lower image quality in low light)
• Use basic stabilization (no electronic image stabilization or EIS)
• Lack touchscreens or have smaller, less responsive displays
• Have shorter battery life (sometimes under 90 minutes)
• Use lower-quality housings (less waterproof or shockproof)

For example, I used a 720p camera during a rainy trail run. It worked fine in light drizzle, but when the downpour hit, water seeped into the housing. The GoPro Hero 5, with its sealed design, handled the rain like a champ.

Tip: If you’re buying a 720p camera for extreme conditions, look for models with IPX8 or higher waterproof ratings—even if they’re small. Some brands like Apeman and Campark now offer compact 720p cameras with decent waterproofing.

Side-by-Side Comparison: 720p vs. GoPro Hero 5

Size and Weight Comparison

Let’s put the numbers side by side. Below is a comparison of average 720p action cameras vs. the GoPro Hero 5:

Feature	Average 720p Action Camera	GoPro Hero 5 Black
Height	45–55 mm	62 mm
Width	35–45 mm	44.6 mm
Depth	20–30 mm	33.7 mm
Weight	60–90 g	118 g (without housing)
Volume (approx.)	31.5–74.25 cm³	92.5 cm³
Screen	Small or no screen	2-inch touchscreen
Waterproof	Up to 30m with housing (varies)	10m without housing; 60m with housing
Stabilization	None or basic	Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS)
Battery Life	60–90 min	100–120 min

The volume difference is striking. The GoPro Hero 5 is roughly 25–60% larger in volume than most 720p cameras. That might not sound like much, but when you’re holding it, wearing it, or mounting it, the difference is noticeable.

For instance, I once tried to fit a GoPro Hero 5 into a small 3D-printed mount for a model airplane. It didn’t fit—too wide and too thick. A 720p camera from Akaso slid in perfectly. Size truly matters when space is limited.

Real-World Use Cases

Let’s break down when each camera type shines:

• Choose a 720p camera if:
  • You need ultra-lightweight gear (e.g., drone, pet cam, kids’ activities)
  • You’re on a tight budget (many 720p cameras cost under $50)
  • You don’t need 4K or advanced features
  • You want a backup or secondary camera
• Choose the GoPro Hero 5 if:
  • You need professional-grade stabilization and image quality
  • You’re filming in low light or fast motion (snowboarding, surfing)
  • You want a large, easy-to-use touchscreen
  • You value durability and waterproofing without extra housing

I used the Hero 5 for a week-long ski trip. The EIS made my downhill runs look smooth, even when I was bouncing over moguls. The touchscreen let me review clips quickly between runs. But when I wanted to attach a camera to my dog’s harness, I switched to a 720p model—it was lighter and didn’t bother him at all.

How to Choose the Right Camera Based on Dimensions

Ask Yourself These 5 Questions

Before buying, ask yourself:

1. Where will I mount the camera? (Helmet, chest, drone, pet, etc.)
2. How long will I be using it? (A 118g camera feels heavy after 4 hours.)
3. Do I need a screen? (A touchscreen is great, but adds size and weight.)
4. What’s my budget? (720p cameras are cheaper, but may lack durability.)
5. How important is image quality? (720p is fine for social media; 4K is better for editing.)

For example, if you’re a parent filming your kid’s soccer game, a small 720p camera on a chest mount might be perfect—lightweight, unobtrusive, and affordable. But if you’re a pro YouTuber doing adventure travel, the Hero 5’s size and features are worth the extra bulk.

Tips for Testing Fit and Comfort

You don’t need to buy before you try. Here’s how to test:

• Use a 3D print or cardboard mockup of the camera dimensions. Tape it to a mount and wear it for 10 minutes. Does it feel awkward?
• Check wind noise by holding the mockup out of a car window at 30 mph (or use a fan). Smaller cameras create less drag.
• Try it in your pocket with a phone and wallet. Does it bulge? Is it easy to access?
• Look at real-world photos of the camera mounted on helmets, bikes, or drones. See how much it sticks out.

I once made a cardboard model of the Hero 5 and taped it to my bike handlebars. It looked fine—until I turned sharply and realized it blocked part of my view. The smaller 720p model didn’t have that issue.

Accessories That Affect Perceived Size

Don’t forget: the camera alone isn’t the whole story. Accessories add bulk:

• Waterproof housing: Adds 10–20mm in depth and 20–30g in weight.
• Extended batteries: Can make the camera 15–25% thicker.
• External microphones: Require mounts, adding height and width.
• Lens filters or covers: Add minimal size but can affect fit in tight mounts.

For example, the GoPro Hero 5 with a housing and battery grip becomes much larger—almost double the depth. A 720p camera with a housing might still be smaller than the naked Hero 5.

Final Thoughts: Size Is Just One Piece of the Puzzle

When you compare action camera 720p dimensions to GoPro Hero 5, you’re not just looking at numbers on a page. You’re thinking about how the camera will feel in your hand, how it will perform on your adventures, and whether it will get in the way or stay out of sight.

The GoPro Hero 5 is a powerhouse—larger, heavier, but packed with features that justify its size. It’s perfect for professionals, serious hobbyists, and anyone who values image quality and durability. But if you need something small, light, and affordable, a 720p action camera might be the smarter choice.

Remember: the best camera isn’t always the most powerful one. It’s the one that fits your life—your activities, your budget, and your comfort. Whether you go for the compact 720p or the robust Hero 5, make sure it feels right when you’re out there, capturing the moments that matter.

So next time you’re shopping, don’t just check the specs. Pick up the camera (or a mockup). Try it on. Imagine using it in the wild. Because when the action happens, you want your gear to be an extension of you—not a burden.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the dimensions of a 720p action camera compared to the GoPro Hero 5?

Most 720p action cameras have compact dimensions around 59 x 41 x 30 mm, while the GoPro Hero 5 measures 62 x 44.6 x 33 mm. The Hero 5 is slightly larger but offers higher resolution and advanced features beyond 720p.

How does the size difference impact portability between 720p action cameras and the GoPro Hero 5?

The GoPro Hero 5 is marginally bulkier (62mm vs. ~59mm in length), but both are lightweight and portable. The 720p camera’s smaller size may benefit tight mounting spaces, though the Hero 5’s durability compensates for its size.

Can I use the same mounts for a 720p action camera and a GoPro Hero 5?

While the GoPro Hero 5 uses standard GoPro mounts, 720p action cameras often share similar designs. Check the mounting system—many third-party 720p cameras are compatible with GoPro accessories, but verify screw alignment and clip sizes.

Is the GoPro Hero 5’s larger size worth it over a 720p action camera?

The Hero 5’s slightly bigger dimensions house superior 4K video, voice control, and stabilization. If 720p resolution is sufficient, a smaller 720p camera saves space, but the Hero 5’s features justify its size for most users.

How do the weights compare between a 720p action camera and the GoPro Hero 5?

The GoPro Hero 5 weighs ~118g, while 720p models average 70–90g. The lighter 720p cameras reduce load for head mounts, but the Hero 5’s weight is negligible for most action uses.

Are 720p action camera dimensions standardized like the GoPro Hero 5?

No, 720p action camera dimensions vary by brand (e.g., 55 x 40 x 25 mm to 65 x 45 x 30 mm). The GoPro Hero 5’s size is consistent across its ecosystem, ensuring mount compatibility, unlike some 720p models.