GoPro Hero5 Black 4K Action Camera with Remote Review

The GoPro Hero5 Black 4K Action Camera with Remote delivers stunning 4K video and seamless voice control in a rugged, waterproof design. With advanced stabilization, hands-free operation via the included remote, and intuitive touchscreen navigation, it’s built for adventure seekers who demand pro-quality footage. Its versatility and reliability make it a top-tier choice for capturing high-octane moments effortlessly.

Key Takeaways

• 4K video quality: Captures stunning ultra-HD footage for professional-grade results.
• Voice control: Hands-free operation simplifies recording in fast-paced environments.
• Waterproof design: Dive up to 33ft without extra housing—ideal for underwater adventures.
• Remote included: Control multiple cameras wirelessly for seamless multi-angle shots.
• Touchscreen display: Intuitive navigation and framing enhance user experience.
• Stabilization: Reduces shake for smoother videos in rugged conditions.

Why the GoPro Hero5 Black 4K Action Camera with Remote Still Holds Up in 2024

Let’s be honest: when you think of action cameras, one name instantly pops into your head—GoPro. And if you’ve been eyeing one for a while, chances are the GoPro Hero5 Black 4K Action Camera with Remote has crossed your radar. Maybe you’ve seen it in YouTube vlogs, travel reels, or even your friend’s epic mountain biking footage. But does it still deliver in a world packed with newer, flashier models? I’ve spent weeks testing it, and here’s the real scoop—no hype, no fluff.

When the Hero5 Black launched in 2016, it was a game-changer. Touchscreen, voice control, waterproof housing without a case, and 4K video at 30fps? Revolutionary. Fast forward to today, and while newer models boast higher frame rates and better image stabilization, the Hero5 Black still punches way above its weight—especially when bundled with the GoPro remote. Whether you’re a weekend warrior, a content creator on a budget, or someone who just wants reliable, high-quality footage of life’s adventures, this combo deserves a closer look.

Design and Build: Rugged, Minimal, and Ready for Anything

Compact Yet Durable

The GoPro Hero5 Black is small—about the size of a matchbox—but don’t let its size fool you. The matte black finish feels premium, and the rubberized texture gives it a grippy, confident hold. I’ve dropped mine from waist height onto concrete (oops), and it survived with just a tiny scratch. That’s the kind of durability you want when you’re biking down rocky trails or kayaking in rough waters.

One of the biggest upgrades over earlier models is that the Hero5 Black is waterproof up to 10 meters (33 feet) without an external housing. That means you can toss it in your backpack, head to the beach, and start filming without fumbling with extra cases. I tested this by filming underwater at a local pool and a shallow reef—no leaks, no fogging. Just clean, vibrant footage.

Intuitive Touchscreen and Controls

The 2-inch touchscreen is responsive, even with wet fingers. I found it easy to navigate menus, switch between modes, and review clips on the go. The screen isn’t the brightest in direct sunlight, but a quick swipe to adjust brightness helps. The three physical buttons (power/shutter, mode, and quick capture) are well-placed and easy to press with gloves on—great for cold-weather adventures.

Pro tip: Enable “Quick Capture” in settings. This lets you start recording instantly by pressing and holding the shutter button. I used this during a surprise dolphin sighting on a kayak tour—no time to navigate menus, just press and film. Saved the moment perfectly.

The Remote: A Game-Changer for Hands-Free Control

The included GoPro remote (the small, wrist-worn device) is a standout feature. It’s waterproof, has a clear OLED screen, and lets you control the camera from up to 600 feet away. I used it while mountain biking—mounted the camera on my helmet, wore the remote on my wrist, and started/stopped recording without taking my hands off the handlebars. It’s also great for group shots: hand the remote to a friend, and they can trigger the camera while you’re in the shot.

The remote uses Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, so pairing is quick. I had it connected in under 30 seconds. The battery lasts about 2 hours of continuous use, so keep spares if you’re filming all day. One small gripe: the remote screen is tiny, and the buttons are a bit stiff. But for the convenience, it’s a worthy trade-off.

Video and Photo Quality: 4K That Still Impresses

4K at 30fps: Crisp, Clear, and Colorful

The Hero5 Black shoots 4K video at 30fps, 2.7K at 60fps, and 1080p at up to 120fps for slow-motion. While newer models offer 4K at 60fps, the 30fps 4K here is still sharp and detailed. I filmed a sunrise hike, and the colors popped—warm oranges, cool blues, and the texture of the rocks were all captured beautifully. The dynamic range isn’t as wide as the Hero11, but with proper exposure, you get usable footage even in mixed lighting.

For vloggers or casual creators, the 2.7K/60fps mode is ideal. It gives you smoother motion and a bit more room for cropping in post. I used it for a skateboarding session, and the extra frame rate helped capture the fast movements without choppiness.

Photo Capabilities: 12MP with RAW Support

The 12MP sensor takes solid stills. In good light, photos are vibrant with accurate colors. I snapped shots during a beach picnic, and the skin tones looked natural—no weird yellow or blue tints. The camera also shoots in RAW (DNG format), which is a big win for photographers who want more control in post. I edited a few RAW files in Lightroom and was able to recover shadow details and adjust white balance without noise.

One cool feature: **Burst Mode** (up to 30 photos per second) and **Time Lapse** (intervals from 0.5 to 60 seconds). I set it to take a photo every 30 seconds during a sunset and turned it into a smooth time-lapse video. The remote was perfect for starting/stopping without touching the camera.

Low-Light Performance: A Mixed Bag

Let’s be real: this isn’t a night vision camera. In dim light, videos get grainy, and photos lose detail. I tried filming a campfire scene, and while the flames looked great, the surrounding shadows were noisy. The Hero5 lacks the low-light processing of newer models, so it’s best for daytime or well-lit environments.

Tip: Use the “Night Photo” mode for long exposures. I got a decent star trail shot by setting it to 30 seconds. But for moving subjects in the dark? Not ideal.

Stabilization, Audio, and Battery: The Real-World Trade-Offs

Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS): Good, Not Great

The Hero5 has built-in EIS, which helps smooth out shakes. I tested it while running on a trail, and the footage was watchable—no nausea-inducing jitters. But compared to the HyperSmooth tech in newer GoPros, it’s a step behind. Fast turns or bumpy rides still show some wobble. For smooth results, pair it with a gimbal or mount it on a helmet or chest harness.

Pro tip: Disable EIS if you’re using a stabilizer. The camera’s processing can sometimes overcorrect, creating a “floating” effect. I learned this the hard way during a drone chase scene.

Audio: Built-in Mic vs. External Options

The three built-in mics do a decent job in quiet environments. I recorded a voiceover at a park, and the audio was clear with minimal wind noise. But in windy or noisy settings (like a motorcycle ride), the mics struggle. The Hero5 supports external mics via a USB-C adapter (sold separately), which is a lifesaver for vloggers. I used a lavalier mic for a hiking video, and the difference was night and day.

Battery Life: Manage Expectations

The 1220mAh battery lasts about 1.5 hours of 4K recording. That’s not terrible, but it’s not amazing either. I filmed a full day of activities (hiking, biking, and a sunset) and went through two batteries. The remote’s battery lasts about 2 hours, so pack extras if you’re using both heavily.

Battery-saving tip: Lower the screen brightness, disable Wi-Fi when not needed, and use 1080p if 4K isn’t essential. I also bought a dual battery charger—game-changer for multi-day trips.

Smart Features and Connectivity: Voice Control, GPS, and App Integration

Voice Control: Surprisingly Useful

“GoPro, start recording.” “GoPro, take a photo.” It sounds gimmicky, but it’s actually handy when your hands are busy. I used it while climbing a rock wall—just shouted “GoPro, stop recording” when I reached the top. It worked 80% of the time. In windy or noisy areas, it’s hit or miss, but in quiet settings, it’s reliable.

GPS and Data Overlays

The built-in GPS logs your speed, elevation, and location. I enabled it during a bike race and later overlaid the data on my video using GoPro’s app. It added a pro touch—showing my top speed (38 mph!) and elevation gain. The data is accurate but drains the battery faster, so use it selectively.

GoPro App and Quik Editing

The GoPro app lets you control the camera remotely, transfer files, and edit videos on your phone. I used it to trim clips and add music for a quick social media post. The Quik app (GoPro’s editing tool) is simple but powerful. It auto-creates highlight reels with transitions and music. I made a 1-minute video of my beach trip in under 5 minutes.

Note: File transfers over Wi-Fi are slow. For faster transfers, use a USB-C cable. I learned this after waiting 20 minutes for a 4K clip to transfer wirelessly.

Accessories, Mounts, and Real-World Use Cases

Mounting Options: Versatility is Key

The Hero5 uses the same mounting system as other GoPros, so you’ve got endless options. I used a chest mount for hiking, a suction cup for my car, and a head strap for kayaking. The quick-release design makes swapping mounts a breeze. Just snap and go.

One favorite: the “Floaty” backdoor. It keeps the camera afloat if you drop it in water. I lost mine in a river once (luckily, it floated to the bank). A must-have for water sports.

Real-World Scenarios: Where It Shines (and Where It Doesn’t)

• Travel Vlogging: Perfect for capturing landscapes, cityscapes, and candid moments. The remote lets you film yourself without a tripod.
• Outdoor Adventures: Hiking, biking, kayaking—the Hero5 handles it all. The waterproof design is a lifesaver.
• Family Events: Use burst mode for kids’ birthday parties or time-lapse for fireworks.
• Not Ideal For: Professional filmmaking (limited manual controls), low-light events, or high-speed action (lacks advanced stabilization).

Cost vs. Value: Is It Still Worth It?

The Hero5 Black with remote is often found for under $200 on the used market. For that price, you’re getting a 4K camera, waterproof design, voice control, and a remote—features that newer $400+ models have, but at a fraction of the cost. It’s not the best, but it’s a fantastic value for hobbyists and budget-conscious creators.

Data Table: GoPro Hero5 Black vs. Key Competitors (2024)

Feature	GoPro Hero5 Black	GoPro Hero11 Black	DJI Osmo Action 3
Max Resolution	4K/30fps	5.3K/60fps	4K/120fps
Stabilization	EIS	HyperSmooth 5.0	RockSteady 3.0
Waterproof	10m (no case)	10m (no case)	10m (no case)
Voice Control	Yes	Yes	Yes
Battery Life (4K)	~1.5 hours	~1.5 hours	~1.5 hours
Remote Included	Yes	No (sold separately)	No (sold separately)
Price (Used/Refurbished)	$150-$200	$300-$400	$200-$250

Final Verdict: A Reliable Workhorse with a Few Quirks

After weeks of testing, here’s my take: the GoPro Hero5 Black 4K Action Camera with Remote isn’t the newest or flashiest, but it’s a solid, dependable choice for anyone who wants high-quality 4K footage without breaking the bank. The remote is a standout—rare in this price range—and the waterproof design, voice control, and intuitive interface make it easy to use, even for beginners.

Sure, it has flaws: the stabilization isn’t as smooth as newer models, low-light performance is mediocre, and the battery life could be better. But for $150-$200 (used), it’s hard to beat. It’s the camera I reach for when I want to capture a hike, a road trip, or a family outing—without worrying about breaking it.

If you’re a pro filmmaker or need 5.3K/60fps, look elsewhere. But if you’re a casual adventurer, a vlogger on a budget, or someone who just wants a tough, reliable camera for life’s moments, the Hero5 Black with remote is still a winner. It’s not perfect, but it’s proven—and sometimes, that’s enough.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the GoPro Hero5 Black 4K Action Camera with Remote stand out from other models?

The GoPro Hero5 Black combines 4K video recording, voice control, and waterproof design (up to 33ft without a housing) in a rugged, user-friendly package. The included remote adds convenience for controlling the camera from a distance, ideal for action shots.

Can I use the GoPro Hero5 Black 4K Action Camera for live streaming?

Yes, the Hero5 Black supports live streaming via Wi-Fi to platforms like Facebook and YouTube, though a stable connection is required. Note that streaming is limited to 720p resolution, not 4K.

Does the GoPro Hero5 Black come with image stabilization?

The Hero5 Black features advanced electronic image stabilization (EIS) to reduce shakiness in videos, especially during high-motion activities. While not as robust as gimbal-level stabilization, it significantly improves footage smoothness.

How long does the battery last on the GoPro Hero5 Black 4K Action Camera?

The built-in 1220mAh battery provides approximately 1.5–2 hours of continuous 4K recording, depending on settings and conditions. Spare batteries or an external power source are recommended for extended use.

Is the GoPro Hero5 Black compatible with older GoPro mounts and accessories?

Yes, the Hero5 Black retains the standard GoPro mounting system, making it fully compatible with most Hero4 and older accessories. However, some specialized housings may require updates for the Hero5’s design.

What’s included in the GoPro Hero5 Black 4K Action Camera with Remote package?

The kit includes the Hero5 Black camera, a rechargeable battery, a remote control, a mounting frame, curved and flat adhesive mounts, a USB-C cable, and a quick-start guide. No external housing is needed for underwater use up to 33ft.