Hero5 Black 4K Action Camera with Remote Gray Review

The Hero5 Black 4K Action Camera with Remote Gray delivers stunning 4K video and 12MP photos in a rugged, waterproof design, making it ideal for adventurers and content creators alike. With voice control, one-button simplicity, and a handy wireless remote, capturing high-quality footage on the move has never been easier or more reliable.

Key Takeaways

• 4K video quality: Capture stunning ultra-HD footage with vibrant clarity.
• Voice control: Hands-free operation simplifies recording and photo capture.
• Waterproof design: Dive up to 33ft without a housing case.
• Remote included: Control camera settings wirelessly from a distance.
• Stabilized footage: Advanced stabilization reduces shake for smoother videos.
• Easy sharing: Auto-upload to cloud and quick mobile app transfers.

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

Let’s be honest: action cameras have evolved fast. New models drop every year, each promising better stabilization, higher resolution, and smarter features. But sometimes, the “older” gear still nails it. That’s exactly the case with the Hero5 Black 4K action camera with remote gray. Released in 2016, it’s now a budget-friendly powerhouse that delivers more than most people expect—especially when you factor in the included remote control.

I’ve used this camera for everything from mountain biking in Colorado to snorkeling in the Caribbean. It’s been dropped, splashed, and buried in sand. And yet, it still works. No, it doesn’t have the AI-powered features of newer models, but it’s rock-solid, intuitive, and produces footage that still holds up on today’s 4K screens. If you’re on a budget, love simplicity, or just want a reliable backup camera, the Hero5 Black deserves a serious look. Let’s dive into what makes it a sleeper hit—and where it falls short. For those interested in alternative options with similar remote functionality, check out our detailed comparison of the HP Waterproof Action Camera with Wrist Remote.

First Impressions: Unboxing and Design

What’s in the Box?

When you open the Hero5 Black 4K action camera with remote gray, you get:

• The Hero5 Black camera (waterproof up to 33ft without a housing)

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• A rechargeable 1220mAh battery
• USB-C charging cable
• Mounting frame (with quick-release buckle)
• Curved and flat adhesive mounts
• The gray Smart Remote (with wrist strap)
• Quick-start guide and warranty info

It’s a complete starter kit. No need to buy extras right away—though I’ll talk about accessories later.

Build and Feel: Rugged Meets Minimalist

The camera has a matte black finish with a soft-touch grip around the sides. It feels solid, not flimsy. At 117 grams, it’s light enough to mount on helmets, bikes, or even a dog harness (yes, I’ve tried it). The front lens is recessed, which helps protect it from scratches. The back features a 2-inch touchscreen—rare for its time—and it’s surprisingly responsive, even in gloves.

One of the standout design choices? The waterproof body. Unlike older GoPros that needed a bulky housing for underwater use, the Hero5 Black is waterproof to 33 feet (10 meters) right out of the box. That’s a game-changer for beach days, kayaking, or even just rainy hikes. I’ve used it in light rain and shallow water with zero issues. Just rinse it after saltwater exposure.

The Remote: A Hidden Gem

The included gray Smart Remote is a lifesaver. It’s about the size of a small watch, with a single button and a tiny status screen. Pair it via Bluetooth (takes 30 seconds), and you can start/stop recording, take photos, or switch modes from up to 30 feet away.

Example: On a recent ski trip, I mounted the camera on my chest harness. Instead of fumbling with gloves to press buttons, I just tapped the remote on my wrist. Instant clip capture. It also works great for group shots—just hand it to a friend and let them trigger the camera. If you’re curious about how to maximize remote functionality across different camera models, our guide on using a WiFi remote with action cameras offers helpful tips.

Pro tip: Keep the remote in a jacket pocket. It’s easy to lose if you’re not careful.

Performance: 4K Video, Audio, and Low Light

4K Video Quality: Crisp and Colorful

The Hero5 Black shoots 4K at 30fps (and 2.7K at 60fps). While newer cameras offer 4K at 60fps or higher, the Hero5’s footage is still sharp and vibrant. The color science leans slightly warm, which works great for landscapes and skin tones. In good light, you’ll get rich blues in the sky, deep greens in forests, and accurate skin tones.

I compared a 4K clip from the Hero5 to a newer GoPro (Hero10) in a side-by-side test. On a 55-inch 4K TV, the difference was minimal. The Hero10 had slightly better dynamic range, but the Hero5 wasn’t far behind. For social media, YouTube, or personal archives, the Hero5 delivers.

Stabilization: Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS)

This is where the Hero5 starts to show its age. It uses electronic image stabilization (EIS), not the advanced HyperSmooth tech in newer models. EIS works by cropping the frame and adjusting the image in real time. It’s good for moderate movement—like walking, biking, or skiing—but struggles with extreme shakes (think downhill mountain biking or motocross).

Example: I recorded a mountain bike descent. The Hero5 smoothed out small vibrations, but big jumps caused slight “jello” effects (wobbly footage). For smoother results, I recommend:

• Using a gimbal or stabilizing mount
• Shooting at 1080p/60fps (less cropping, better stabilization)
• Walking with bent knees to absorb shocks

Still, for most users (hikers, travelers, vloggers), the EIS is more than enough.

Low Light and Audio: The Trade-Offs

Low light performance is… okay. The Hero5 uses a smaller sensor than modern cameras, so night footage gets grainy. In dimly lit bars or twilight hikes, expect noise. But it’s not terrible. The camera adjusts exposure well, and the colors stay balanced. Just don’t expect crisp night videos like you’d get from a Hero12.

Audio is a bigger letdown. The built-in mic picks up wind noise easily. On a windy beach, my voice was muffled. The fix? Use an external mic (sold separately) or record audio separately and sync it in editing. The camera has a mic port, but you’ll need a 3.5mm adapter.

Pro tip: For interviews, hold the camera close to the speaker. The mic works best at 1–2 feet.

User Experience: Touchscreen, Controls, and App

Touchscreen: Surprisingly Responsive

The 2-inch touchscreen is a major upgrade from older models. It’s bright, clear, and works with gloves (as long as they’re not too thick). Swiping to change modes (Video, Photo, Time Lapse) is smooth. The menu is intuitive: tap to select, swipe to scroll.

One quirk: In direct sunlight, the screen gets washed out. I found myself shielding it with my hand to see the preview. Not a dealbreaker, but worth noting.

Voice Control: Fun but Flaky

The Hero5 Black supports voice commands: “GoPro, start recording,” “GoPro, take a photo,” etc. It works… sometimes. In quiet settings, it’s reliable. In noisy environments (traffic, wind), it fails more often than not. I’ve had it start recording when I said “Hey GoPro” to my dog. Still, it’s a fun feature for hands-free use when it works.

GoPro App: Connect and Control

The GoPro app (iOS/Android) lets you:

• Preview the camera’s view on your phone
• Change settings remotely
• Download clips to your device
• Edit and share videos

Connection is fast via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. The app is well-designed, but it can lag when transferring large 4K files. I recommend downloading clips over Wi-Fi at home, not on the go.

Pro tip: Use the app to format your SD card. It’s faster than doing it on the camera.

Battery Life, Storage, and Accessories

Battery: 1–2 Hours of 4K Recording

The 1220mAh battery lasts about 1.5 hours when recording 4K/30fps. That’s decent for short trips, but not enough for all-day adventures. I always pack a spare battery (sold separately) and a power bank. The USB-C port makes charging quick—about 2 hours from 0 to 100%.

Tip: Turn off Wi-Fi and GPS when not in use. These features drain the battery fast.

Storage: MicroSD Cards and Speed

The camera uses microSD cards (not included). GoPro recommends Class 10 or UHS-I cards with at least 30MB/s write speed. I use a 64GB SanDisk Extreme (U3) card. It holds about 1 hour of 4K footage. For longer trips, I carry a 128GB card and a card reader.

Warning: Don’t use cheap or slow cards. I once had a card corrupt mid-recording, losing a 20-minute clip. Stick to reputable brands like SanDisk, Samsung, or Lexar.

Accessories: Expand Your Setup

The Hero5 Black uses the same mounts as newer GoPros, so accessories are plentiful. I use:

• Chesty mount: For POV hiking and biking
• Suction cup mount: For car hoods or boat decks
• Floaty backdoor: Essential for water use
• External mic adapter: For better audio

One downside: The camera lacks a built-in tripod mount. You’ll need a frame or case with one. If you’re considering other cameras with strong remote integration, the Eken H9 H9R Remote Action Camera is another solid choice worth exploring.

Data Table: Hero5 Black vs. Key Specs

Feature	Hero5 Black	Notes
Video Resolution	4K/30fps, 2.7K/60fps, 1080p/120fps	4K limited to 30fps
Photo Resolution	12MP	Good for stills, not pro-level
Stabilization	Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS)	No HyperSmooth; moderate shakes only
Waterproof	33ft (10m) without housing	No housing needed for shallow water
Battery Life	~1.5 hours (4K)	Carry spares for long trips
Audio	Built-in mic, 3.5mm adapter port	Wind noise is an issue
Connectivity	Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB-C	App control works well
Voice Control	Yes	Hit-or-miss in loud environments
Weight	117g	Light and portable

Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Buy the Hero5 Black?

Let’s cut to the chase: Is the Hero5 Black 4K action camera with remote gray right for you?

Perfect For:

• Budget buyers: You get 4K, a remote, and waterproofing for under $200 (used or refurbished).
• Travelers and vloggers: Lightweight, easy to use, and great for capturing memories.
• Beginners: Simple interface, no learning curve. Just point and shoot.
• Backup camera users: Reliable and durable. I keep one in my backpack for emergencies.
• Remote control lovers: The included remote is a huge convenience for hands-free filming.

Not Ideal For:

• Extreme athletes: If you’re into downhill racing or high-speed sports, get a camera with better stabilization (e.g., Hero10+).
• Professional videographers: Lack of advanced features (like ProTune or RAW photos) limits creative control.
• Low-light shooters: Night footage is usable but noisy. Newer models handle darkness better.
• 4K/60fps enthusiasts: The Hero5 maxes out at 4K/30fps. Not smooth enough for fast action.

Real-World Use Case

Last summer, I took the Hero5 on a 5-day backpacking trip in the Rockies. I used it for:

• Sunrise time-lapses (set it up, trigger with the remote, and go back to sleep)
• River crossings (waterproof body handled splashes perfectly)
• Group photos (remote let everyone be in the shot)
• Trail videos (EIS smoothed out my walking steps)

By day 3, the battery died. I swapped in a spare and kept filming. The footage? Still looks great on my 4K TV. No regrets.

Final Thoughts: A Reliable Workhorse That Won’t Break the Bank

The Hero5 Black 4K action camera with remote gray isn’t flashy. It doesn’t have AI tracking, 5K video, or voice-activated selfies. But it’s dependable. It’s simple. And it gets the job done—whether you’re recording a family vacation, a mountain hike, or a weekend kayaking trip.

What I love most is the freedom it gives you. The remote lets you capture moments without touching the camera. The waterproof body means you don’t panic if it rains. The 4K video ensures your memories stay sharp for years.

Yes, it has flaws. The stabilization isn’t perfect. The audio needs help. The battery won’t last all day. But for under $200 (used or refurbished), you’re getting a camera that outperforms its price tag.

So, if you’re looking for a no-nonsense, rugged, 4K-capable action camera—and you don’t need the latest bells and whistles—the Hero5 Black is a fantastic choice. It’s not just a camera. It’s a storyteller. And with the remote in hand, you’re always ready to hit record.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Hero5 Black 4K Action Camera with Remote Gray stand out?

The Hero5 Black delivers stunning 4K video quality, voice control, and a rugged, waterproof design without a housing (up to 33ft). The included remote adds convenience for hands-free operation, making it ideal for action enthusiasts.

Can the Hero5 Black record in 4K at high frame rates?

Yes, the Hero5 Black captures 4K video at 30fps and 2.7K at 60fps for smooth slow-motion footage. It also supports lower resolutions like 1080p at up to 120fps for versatile shooting options.

How does the remote work with the Hero5 Black 4K Action Camera?

The included gray remote pairs via Bluetooth, allowing you to start/stop recording, adjust settings, and tag highlights from up to 10m away. It’s especially useful when the camera is mounted out of reach.

Is the Hero5 Black waterproof without a case?

Yes, the camera is waterproof to 10m (33ft) without a housing, making it perfect for snorkeling or rainy adventures. For deeper dives, a separate dive housing is available.

Does the Hero5 Black have image stabilization?

It features built-in electronic stabilization for smoother footage in 1080p and 2.7K modes, though 4K recording lacks stabilization. This balances quality and performance for most action scenarios.

What accessories are compatible with the Hero5 Black?

The camera works with GoPro’s extensive accessory ecosystem, including mounts, grips, and batteries. The Hero5 Black 4K Action Camera with Remote Gray also supports Karma drone and 3.5mm microphones for expanded functionality.