GoPro Hero 4 Black 4K Waterproof Action Camera Kit Review

The GoPro Hero 4 Black 4K Waterproof Action Camera Kit delivers professional-grade 4K video and rugged, waterproof performance in one compact package. With advanced features like 12MP photos, 30fps 4K recording, and built-in Wi-Fi, it’s ideal for adventurers and content creators seeking stunning, stable footage in any environment. This kit includes essential mounts and accessories, making it a ready-to-shoot powerhouse straight out of the box.

Key Takeaways

• 4K video quality: Captures stunning ultra-HD footage for professional-grade results.
• Waterproof design: Dive up to 40m with the included housing for underwater adventures.
• Versatile mounting: Kit includes multiple mounts for hands-free, multi-angle filming.
• Wi-Fi & Bluetooth: Enables quick sharing and remote control via smartphone app.
• Advanced audio: Improved mic reduces wind noise for clearer sound recording.
• High-speed modes: Shoot 1080p at 120fps for smooth slow-motion playback.

Why I Chose the GoPro Hero 4 Black 4K Waterproof Action Camera Kit

Let me tell you a quick story. A few years ago, I took a spontaneous road trip with my closest friends. We were hiking, kayaking, and even tried out some amateur mountain biking. I brought along a bulky DSLR, hoping to capture every moment. But by the end of the first day, I was exhausted—carrying that heavy gear, changing lenses, and missing shots because I was too busy setting up. By day three, I had given up entirely and just relied on my phone. The result? Blurry, shaky videos and photos that didn’t do the trip justice. That’s when I realized: I needed an action camera—one that could keep up with my chaotic, fast-paced adventures.

After weeks of research, I landed on the GoPro Hero 4 Black 4K Waterproof Action Camera Kit. It promised high-quality 4K video, rugged durability, and the ability to go anywhere—even underwater. I was skeptical at first. Could a small camera really replace my DSLR for action shots? But after using it for over a year across hiking trails, surfing trips, and even a rainy bike ride, I can confidently say it’s become my go-to tool for capturing life’s wildest moments. In this review, I’ll walk you through everything I’ve learned: the good, the not-so-good, and whether this kit is worth the investment for your own adventures.

Unboxing and First Impressions: What’s in the Kit?

The Box and Packaging

When the GoPro Hero 4 Black 4K Waterproof Action Camera Kit arrived, I was pleasantly surprised by the packaging. It’s sleek, compact, and designed to protect the camera during shipping. The box includes a clear plastic case that lets you see the camera and accessories right away. No need to tear into it like a kid on Christmas morning—everything is neatly laid out and easy to access.

What’s Included in the Kit

Here’s what you get straight out of the box:

• GoPro Hero 4 Black camera – The star of the show, with a rugged, matte black finish.
• Waterproof housing (40m depth) – A must-have for underwater shots or rainy conditions.
• Standard frame mount – For attaching the camera to helmets, bikes, or handlebars.
• Curved and flat adhesive mounts – Great for sticking to surfaces like kayaks or snowboards.
• Quick-release buckle – Lets you swap mounts quickly during a shoot.
• USB cable and charging dock – For charging and transferring files.
• Rechargeable lithium-ion battery – A 1160mAh battery that lasts about 1.5 hours in 1080p mode.

First Thoughts: Size, Weight, and Build Quality

Right away, I loved how small and lightweight the camera felt. It’s about the size of a matchbox and weighs just 88 grams. The housing is solid and clicks into place with a satisfying “snap.” I also appreciated the rubberized grip on the housing—it makes it easy to hold, even with wet hands. The buttons are tactile and responsive, which is crucial when you’re in the middle of an action shot.

One thing to note: the kit doesn’t include a memory card or external battery pack. I recommend grabbing a high-speed 64GB or 128GB microSD card (Class 10 or UHS-I) and a spare battery if you plan on filming for extended periods. I learned this the hard way during a 3-hour mountain bike ride—my battery died just as I reached the summit!

Video and Photo Quality: Is 4K Really Worth It?

4K at 30fps: Crisp and Detailed

The Hero 4 Black’s 4K video (3840 x 2160 at 30fps) is stunning. I tested it on a sunny afternoon at the beach, and the footage looked like it was shot on a professional setup. Colors are vibrant but not oversaturated, and the dynamic range handles bright skies and dark shadows surprisingly well. For vloggers, travelers, or anyone who wants to future-proof their footage, 4K is a game-changer.

That said, 4K eats up storage fast. A 10-minute 4K video takes about 3-4GB of space. If you’re on a budget or don’t need ultra-high resolution, the camera also shoots in 2.7K (60fps) and 1080p (120fps). I usually shoot in 2.7K for a balance of quality and file size.

1080p at 120fps: Slow-Mo Magic

One of my favorite features is the 1080p at 120fps mode. I used it to film my friend catching a wave while surfing, and the slow-motion effect made it look like a movie scene. The details were sharp, and the motion was buttery smooth. For action sports, this mode is a must. It’s also great for capturing pets or kids in motion—my dog chasing a ball in slow-mo is now a family favorite.

Photo Quality: 12MP Still Shots

The Hero 4 Black takes 12MP still photos, which are decent but not DSLR-level. I’ve used it for landscape shots during hikes, and the results are impressive—especially with good lighting. The camera also has a “Burst” mode (30 photos in 1 second) and “Time Lapse” mode (photos at set intervals), which are fun for creative projects. For example, I set it to take a photo every 10 seconds while driving through the desert, and the time-lapse video turned out beautifully.

Low-Light Performance: A Mixed Bag

Here’s where the Hero 4 Black falls short. In low-light conditions—like a dimly lit concert or sunset hike—the footage gets grainy. The camera struggles with noise, and colors can look washed out. I’ve had better results with newer GoPro models (like the Hero 9 or 11), which have improved low-light sensors. But if you’re mostly shooting in daylight or well-lit environments, this won’t be a dealbreaker.

Waterproof and Durability: Built for the Wild

Waterproof Housing: Dive Deep, Worry Less

The included waterproof housing is rated for 40 meters (131 feet), which is more than enough for snorkeling, surfing, or kayaking. I’ve used it in the ocean, lakes, and even a waterfall—no leaks, no fogging. The housing has a clear backplate, so you can still see the camera’s screen (though it’s a bit blurry underwater). The buttons are easy to press, even with gloves on.

Tip: Always rinse the housing with fresh water after saltwater use. I learned this after my camera started fogging up on a dive trip. A quick rinse and wipe with a microfiber cloth fixed it, but it could’ve ruined the lens.

Rugged Build: Surviving Drops and Bumps

The Hero 4 Black is built like a tank. I’ve dropped it on rocks, concrete, and even a kayak paddle (don’t ask), and it’s still going strong. The housing absorbs shocks well, and the lens cover is scratch-resistant. That said, the housing isn’t *completely* indestructible. I noticed minor scratches on the lens after a few months of heavy use, but they don’t affect image quality.

Temperature Tolerance: From Snow to Desert

I’ve used this camera in sub-zero temperatures while skiing and in 100°F+ heat during a desert road trip. It handles both extremes well. The battery drains faster in the cold (about 20% quicker), but that’s normal for all action cameras. Just keep a spare battery in an inside pocket to keep it warm.

Ease of Use and Features: Simple for Beginners, Powerful for Pros

Interface: Intuitive but Not Perfect

The Hero 4 Black has a small 1.5-inch LCD screen and three physical buttons (power/mode, shutter, and up/down). The menu system is straightforward, but it can feel a bit clunky if you’re used to touchscreens. I’ve accidentally switched modes while hiking because the buttons are so sensitive. A quick tip: use the “Quick Capture” feature (hold the shutter button) to start filming instantly—no need to navigate menus.

Wi-Fi and App: Remote Control and Live Preview

The built-in Wi-Fi lets you connect the camera to your phone via the GoPro app (iOS/Android). This is a lifesaver for tricky shots. For example, I mounted the camera on a drone and used my phone as a remote viewfinder. The app lets you adjust settings, start/stop recording, and even preview footage. The only downside? The connection can be spotty if you’re more than 30 feet away.

Advanced Features: For the Tech-Savvy

If you’re into manual controls, the Hero 4 Black won’t disappoint. You can tweak settings like:

• Shutter speed – For motion blur or sharpness.
• White balance – Adjust for different lighting (e.g., “Sunset” or “Cloudy”).
• ISO – Control exposure in low light.
• Protune mode – A pro-grade setting that gives you flat color profiles and higher bitrates for editing.

I used Protune to film a sunset time-lapse, and the footage looked amazing in post-production. But if you’re a beginner, stick with the auto settings—they work great 90% of the time.

Battery Life, Accessories, and Value

Battery Life: The Achilles’ Heel

The Hero 4 Black’s battery life is… okay. In 1080p mode, you’ll get about 1.5 hours. In 4K, it’s closer to 1 hour. I’ve had trips where I needed to swap batteries mid-ride or mid-hike. Here’s what helps:

• Carry 2-3 spare batteries (they’re affordable and easy to swap).
• Use a power bank with a USB cable for on-the-go charging.
• Turn off Wi-Fi and the LCD screen when not needed.

Accessories: Expand Your Creativity

The GoPro ecosystem has tons of accessories, and the Hero 4 Black is compatible with most of them. Some of my favorites:

• Chest mount – Great for biking or skiing (shows the trail ahead).
• Handlebar mount – For cycling or motorcycle rides.
• Floaty grip – Keeps the camera afloat if you drop it in water.
• External mic – Improves audio quality (the built-in mic is okay but picks up wind noise).

Tip: Buy a “travel kit” with multiple mounts and a carrying case. It’s cheaper than buying each accessory separately.

Value: Is It Worth the Price?

The Hero 4 Black kit is priced around $350-$400, which is a steal compared to newer models. For that price, you get 4K video, rugged durability, and a full set of mounts. If you’re on a budget or don’t need the latest tech, it’s a fantastic deal. But if you shoot a lot of low-light footage or want touchscreen controls, consider the Hero 9 or 11.

Data Comparison: How It Stacks Up

Feature	GoPro Hero 4 Black	GoPro Hero 9 Black	DJI Osmo Action 3
Max Video Resolution	4K at 30fps	5K at 30fps	4K at 120fps
Waterproof Depth	40m (with housing)	10m (built-in)	16m (built-in)
Battery Life (1080p)	1.5 hours	2.5 hours	2 hours
Screen	1.5″ LCD	2.27″ Touchscreen	1.4″ Touchscreen
Low-Light Performance	Good (with noise)	Excellent	Very Good
Price (Kit)	$350-$400	$450-$500	$330-$380

The Verdict: Who Should Buy the GoPro Hero 4 Black 4K Kit?

After a year of using the GoPro Hero 4 Black 4K Waterproof Action Camera Kit, I can say it’s a solid choice for anyone who wants to capture high-quality action footage without breaking the bank. The 4K video is stunning, the waterproof housing is reliable, and the included mounts make it easy to get creative. It’s not perfect—the battery life could be better, and low-light performance is hit-or-miss—but for the price, it’s hard to beat.

So, who is this kit for? If you’re a beginner looking to start filming adventures, this is a great entry point. The kit includes everything you need, and the learning curve is gentle. If you’re a budget-conscious traveler or vlogger, the Hero 4 Black delivers pro-level quality without the pro-level price. And if you’re an action sports enthusiast, the 1080p at 120fps slow-mo and rugged build will keep up with your wildest stunts.

Just remember: no camera is perfect. I’ve missed shots because the battery died, and I’ve had to edit out grainy nighttime footage. But the memories I’ve captured—the sunrise hikes, the surfing wipeouts, the laughter with friends—are priceless. At the end of the day, that’s what matters most. If you’re ready to start your own adventure, the GoPro Hero 4 Black 4K kit is a trusty companion. Grab it, hit record, and let the world see what you’re made of.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the GoPro Hero 4 Black 4K Waterproof Action Camera Kit truly waterproof?

Yes, the GoPro Hero 4 Black is waterproof up to 40 meters (131 feet) with its included housing. The kit’s rugged design makes it ideal for underwater adventures or extreme weather conditions.

What makes the GoPro Hero 4 Black 4K stand out from other action cameras?

The Hero 4 Black delivers professional-grade 4K video at 30fps and 12MP photos at 30fps, outperforming many competitors in its era. Its advanced features like Protune mode and built-in Wi-Fi/Bluetooth enhance creative control and connectivity.

Does the GoPro Hero 4 Black 4K kit include everything needed for immediate use?

The kit typically includes the camera, waterproof housing, rechargeable battery, mounts, and basic accessories. However, you may want to purchase extra batteries or SD cards for extended shooting sessions.

How long does the battery last on the GoPro Hero 4 Black?

The standard battery lasts approximately 1.5–2 hours when recording 1080p video, but this varies with settings like 4K resolution or Wi-Fi usage. Carrying spare batteries is recommended for longer adventures.

Can the GoPro Hero 4 Black 4K be used for live streaming?

No, the Hero 4 Black doesn’t support live streaming natively, but you can use third-party apps and external devices for limited streaming. Later GoPro models offer better live-streaming capabilities.

Is the GoPro Hero 4 Black compatible with newer GoPro accessories?

Yes, the Hero 4 Black uses the same mounting system as newer GoPro models, making it compatible with most accessories. However, some newer mounts or mods may require adapters or firmware updates.