GoPro Hero4 Session HD Waterproof Action Camera and WiFi Remote Review

The GoPro Hero4 Session HD Waterproof Action Camera delivers stunning 1080p video in a compact, rugged design that’s ready for any adventure. With built-in WiFi and the included remote, you can control settings and capture footage effortlessly—no bulky housing or extra gear needed. Perfect for action enthusiasts seeking simplicity without sacrificing quality.

Key Takeaways

• Compact design: Fits anywhere, perfect for on-the-go adventures.
• Waterproof: No housing needed—dive up to 33ft effortlessly.
• One-button control: Instant power and recording with a single press.
• Wi-Fi remote: Control settings and start/stop recording from a distance.
• HD video: Crisp 1080p footage for professional-quality action shots.
• Battery life: Lasts 2 hours—carry spares for longer shoots.
• Mounting versatility: Works with all GoPro mounts for seamless use.

Why the GoPro Hero4 Session HD Waterproof Action Camera and WiFi Remote Might Be Your Next Adventure Buddy

Let me paint a picture: You’re standing at the edge of a cliff, about to jump into a crystal-clear lagoon below. Your heart’s racing, the sun’s golden light is hitting the water just right, and you want to capture every second. But your bulky camera is back at the hotel, and your phone? Well, it’s not exactly waterproof. This is exactly where the GoPro Hero4 Session HD Waterproof Action Camera and WiFi Remote comes into play. I’ve taken this little cube-shaped powerhouse on hikes, dives, and even a few chaotic family vacations, and it’s become my go-to for capturing life’s wildest moments.

What makes the Hero4 Session special isn’t just its ability to survive underwater or its sleek design. It’s the way it fits into your life—like a quiet, reliable friend who’s always ready to capture your story. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer, a weekend warrior, or someone who just wants to record their kid’s first bike ride without worrying about rain, this camera delivers. But like any tool, it’s not perfect. In this review, I’ll walk you through the good, the not-so-good, and the “wait, really?” moments I’ve had with this device. By the end, you’ll know if it’s the right fit for your next adventure.

Design and Build: Small, Sturdy, and Seriously Waterproof

The Cube That Could

The first thing you’ll notice about the GoPro Hero4 Session HD Waterproof Action Camera is its shape. Unlike its rectangular siblings, the Session is a compact cube—about the size of a golf ball. At just 2.6 ounces, it feels almost weightless in your hand. This minimalist design isn’t just for looks; it’s a game-changer for mounting. Whether you’re strapping it to your helmet, bike, or dog (yes, I’ve seen it done), the low profile means less wind resistance and fewer awkward protrusions.

The housing is a single, seamless piece of rugged plastic with a rubberized grip. No removable doors, no fiddly latches. This simplicity is a blessing—especially when you’re in a hurry. I’ve dropped mine onto rocky trails and even had it bounce off a kayak paddle, and it still works like new. The only “weak spot” is the small lens cover, which can get scratched if you’re not careful, but a $10 replacement cover is easy to find.

Waterproof Without the Hassle

Here’s the kicker: The Hero4 Session is waterproof to 33 feet (10 meters) without a housing. No need to fumble with bulky cases before a swim or kayak trip. I tested this during a snorkeling session in Hawaii, and the camera handled the waves and sudden dives like a champ. The only caveat? The built-in microphone isn’t designed for underwater audio—it picks up muffled sounds, so don’t expect crystal-clear narration if you’re filming a coral reef. But for visuals? Flawless.

Pro tip: Always rinse the camera with fresh water after saltwater or chlorinated exposure. I learned this the hard way when a tiny bit of sand got stuck in the power button after a beach day. A quick rinse fixed it, but it’s a reminder that even “tough” gear needs care.

Mounting Made Easy (But Not Perfect)

The Session uses GoPro’s standard mounting system, which is a huge plus. I’ve reused mounts from my old Hero3, saving me money and hassle. However, the cube shape means the camera can rotate in some mounts, which can be annoying if you’re trying to keep a level horizon. A simple fix: Use a mount with a locking screw, or add a tiny piece of electrical tape to prevent spinning. Not ideal, but workable.

Video and Photo Quality: HD That Holds Up

HD Footage in Real-World Conditions

The Hero4 Session shoots 1080p video at 60fps, 720p at 100fps, and 1440p at 30fps. For most users, 1080p/60fps is the sweet spot—it’s sharp, smooth, and works great for action shots. I tested it on a mountain bike trail with lots of quick turns and bumps, and the footage stayed stable (though I’d recommend a gimbal for ultra-smooth cinematic shots).

The camera uses GoPro’s “Protune” mode, which gives you more control over color, contrast, and white balance. I love this for editing—it preserves details in shadows and highlights, so my sunset hikes don’t look like silhouettes. But if you’re a casual shooter, the auto settings are perfectly fine. The only downside? No 4K. At this price point, it’s a noticeable omission, but 1080p still looks great on most screens.

Low-Light Performance: Not a Night Owl

Here’s where the Session stumbles. In dim light—think dusk, indoor parties, or campfire scenes—the footage gets grainy. The small sensor struggles with noise, and the fixed aperture (f/2.8) means you can’t open it wider to let in more light. I tried filming a bonfire, and the flames looked great, but the faces of my friends? A bit muddy. If you shoot in low light often, consider the Hero4 Black (which has a better sensor) or stick to well-lit environments.

Photo Mode: Simple but Effective

The Session takes 8MP photos in JPEG format. They’re not DSLR-quality, but they’re perfect for social media or quick snapshots. I’ve used it to capture candid moments at festivals, and the colors pop without looking over-processed. One cool feature: Time-lapse mode. Set it to take a photo every 0.5, 1, or 2 seconds, and you’ll get a smooth hyperlapse of a sunset or busy street. Just make sure you have a tripod—the camera’s tiny size makes it prone to shake.

WiFi Remote: Control from Afar (When It Works)

Convenience vs. Connectivity

The GoPro WiFi Remote is a wristwatch-style controller that pairs with the Session. It’s a lifesaver when you’re solo—no more running back and forth to start/stop recording. I used it while kayaking: I’d set the camera on my deck, start recording from the cockpit, and stop when I reached the shore. The remote also lets you switch modes (video, photo, time-lapse) and adjust settings like resolution.

But here’s the catch: The WiFi connection isn’t always stable. I’ve had the remote disconnect mid-hike, forcing me to manually restart the camera. It’s especially finicky in crowded areas (like festivals) where other WiFi signals interfere. The fix? Keep the remote within 30 feet and avoid metal objects between it and the camera. Annoying, but manageable.

Battery Life and Charging

The remote uses a CR2032 battery, which lasts about 3 months with regular use. Replacing it is easy—just twist off the back. The Session, on the other hand, has a built-in battery that lasts 1.5–2 hours of continuous recording. I always carry a spare power bank, which charges the camera in about 90 minutes. Pro tip: Turn off WiFi and Bluetooth when not in use to save battery.

Remote vs. App: Which to Use?

The GoPro app (free for iOS/Android) is another way to control the camera. It’s more reliable than the remote, with a live preview and full settings menu. But it requires your phone, which isn’t always practical. I use the app for setup (e.g., adjusting Protune settings) and the remote for quick, on-the-go control. Both are useful, but the remote wins for spontaneity.

Ease of Use: From Setup to Sharing

Out-of-the-Box Experience

Unboxing the Hero4 Session feels like opening a tech gift—sleek, simple, and ready to go. The setup takes 5 minutes: Insert the microSD card (not included), charge the battery, and pair the remote. The camera has just two buttons: a power/mode button and a shutter button. It’s so intuitive that my 10-year-old cousin figured it out in seconds.

The only confusing part? The LED indicators. A solid blue light means recording; blinking blue means WiFi is on. But if you see a blinking red light, it means the battery is low—which I learned after a 30-minute hike when the camera suddenly shut off. A quick glance at the manual solved that.

Editing and Sharing Made Simple

GoPro’s Quik app is your best friend here. It automatically edits your footage into shareable clips, adding music and transitions. I used it to create a 2-minute highlight reel of a backpacking trip—it took 10 minutes, and the result looked professional. The app also lets you adjust speed, crop, and add text. For more control, use desktop software like GoPro Studio (free) or Adobe Premiere.

Sharing to social media is seamless. The app exports videos in optimized formats for Instagram, YouTube, or Facebook. Just remember: HD files are large (about 2GB per hour), so upload over WiFi when possible.

Storage and File Management

The Session supports microSD cards up to 128GB. A 64GB card gives you roughly 4 hours of 1080p footage. I recommend Class 10 or UHS-I cards for smooth recording. Pro tip: Format the card in the camera (Settings > Reset > Format SD Card) to avoid errors.

Accessories and Compatibility: Expand Your Options

Must-Have Add-Ons

The Session works with all GoPro mounts and accessories. Here are my top picks:

• Floaty Backdoor: Adds buoyancy and a bright orange back—perfect for water sports. Saved me when my camera slipped off a kayak!
• Jaws Flex Clamp: Clamps onto poles, branches, or bike handlebars. I used it to film a bike race from my handlebars.
• Anti-Fog Inserts: Prevent lens fogging in humid environments. A must for divers.

Third-Party Accessories

Many third-party brands make Session-compatible gear. I’ve used a Neewer chest mount and a Ulanzi mini tripod—both work well and cost half as much as GoPro’s versions. Just check reviews for compatibility.

Compatibility with Older Gear

The Session uses the same mounting system as older GoPros, so your existing mounts, batteries, and housings will work. The only exception: The Hero4 Session’s battery isn’t removable, so you can’t swap in a spare. Plan your shoots accordingly!

Performance Comparison: How It Stacks Up

Feature	Hero4 Session	Hero4 Black	Hero4 Silver
Video Resolution	1080p/60fps, 1440p/30fps	4K/30fps, 1080p/120fps	4K/15fps, 1080p/60fps
Photo Resolution	8MP	12MP	12MP
Waterproof	33ft (no housing)	131ft (with housing)	131ft (with housing)
Battery Life	1.5–2 hours	1–1.5 hours	1–1.5 hours
WiFi Remote Included	Yes	No (sold separately)	Yes
Price (New)	$150–$200	$300–$400	$250–$300

This table shows why the Session shines: It’s affordable, compact, and includes the WiFi remote. But if you need 4K or better low-light performance, the Black or Silver might be worth the extra cost.

The Verdict: Who Should Buy This Camera?

After months of use, I can confidently say the GoPro Hero4 Session HD Waterproof Action Camera and WiFi Remote is a standout for casual adventurers and content creators. It’s not the most powerful GoPro, but it’s the most hassle-free. The waterproof design, intuitive controls, and included remote make it perfect for:

• Travelers: It’s light, durable, and ready for anything.
• Water Sports Enthusiasts: Dive, surf, or paddle with confidence.
• Parents: Capture kids’ milestones without worrying about rain or drops.
• Social Media Creators: HD footage and easy editing tools save time.

That said, it’s not ideal if you need 4K, professional-grade audio, or long battery life. And the WiFi remote’s occasional glitches can be frustrating. But for the price? It’s a steal. I’ve used it to film everything from sunrise hikes to chaotic family dinners, and it’s never let me down. If you’re looking for a reliable, no-fuss camera that fits in your pocket, the Hero4 Session is worth every penny. Just don’t expect it to replace your DSLR—it’s a tool for moments, not masterpieces.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the GoPro Hero4 Session HD Waterproof Action Camera truly waterproof without a housing?

Yes, the GoPro Hero4 Session is natively waterproof up to 33 feet (10 meters) without requiring an external housing, making it ideal for snorkeling, swimming, or rainy adventures. Its compact, rugged design ensures durability in wet environments.

How does the WiFi Remote work with the GoPro Hero4 Session?

The included WiFi Remote allows you to control the camera wirelessly from up to 32 feet (10 meters) away. You can start/stop recording, adjust settings, and switch modes, all from the remote’s intuitive interface.

What video resolutions and frame rates does the GoPro Hero4 Session support?

This camera captures 1080p HD video at 60fps and 720p at 100fps for smooth slow-motion footage. It also supports 8MP photos in single, burst, or time-lapse modes.

Can I use the GoPro Hero4 Session with existing GoPro mounts and accessories?

Absolutely. Despite its compact cube design, the Hero4 Session is compatible with most standard GoPro mounts and accessories. Use the included frame mount or a quick-release adapter for seamless integration.

Does the GoPro Hero4 Session have image stabilization for action shots?

While it lacks advanced electronic stabilization, its compact shape and built-in mounting options reduce shake effectively. For best results, pair it with stabilization accessories like gimbals or chest mounts.

How long does the battery last on the GoPro Hero4 Session?

The built-in battery provides approximately 1.5–2 hours of continuous recording in 1080p60 mode. Battery life may vary with temperature, settings, and WiFi usage, so carrying a power bank is recommended for extended shoots.