GoPro Hero3 16MB Action Camera WiFi Combo Kit Extra CHDHE 301 Silver Edition Review

The GoPro Hero3 16MB Silver Edition WiFi Combo Kit delivers pro-level action footage in a compact, rugged design, perfect for adrenaline junkies and content creators. With 1080p video, 11MP photos, and built-in WiFi, this CHDHE-301 model offers seamless connectivity and impressive low-light performance at an unbeatable value. A must-have for capturing high-octane moments with ease.

Key Takeaways

• Compact and lightweight: Ideal for on-the-go action shots without bulk.
• WiFi enabled: Easily share and control via smartphone or tablet.
• 16MB storage: Upgrade with microSD for extended recording time.
• Full HD video: Captures crisp 1080p footage at 30fps reliably.
• Silver edition durability: Stylish yet rugged for outdoor adventures.
• Combo kit value: Includes mounts and extras for immediate use.
• Quick setup: Intuitive interface reduces learning curve for beginners.

First Impressions: Unboxing the GoPro Hero3 16MB Action Camera WiFi Combo Kit Extra CHDHE 301 Silver Edition

When I first held the GoPro Hero3 16MB Action Camera WiFi Combo Kit Extra CHDHE 301 Silver Edition, it felt like I was unwrapping a tiny, powerful adventure. The sleek silver finish immediately caught my eye—this wasn’t just another bulky action camera. It looked like something a spy would use, compact and stylish. The box was neatly packed with all the essentials: the camera, a waterproof housing, a rechargeable battery, a USB cable, a Wi-Fi remote, and a few mounting accessories. It felt like opening a treasure chest, ready to capture every wild moment.

I’ve tested several action cameras over the years, from budget knock-offs to high-end models, and the Hero3 Silver Edition sits right in the sweet spot. It’s not the most expensive, but it doesn’t feel like a compromise either. Whether you’re a weekend hiker, a weekend warrior, or someone who just wants to capture life’s little moments in high definition, this camera promises to deliver. And after weeks of testing—from mountain biking to snorkeling—it’s clear that this little device punches way above its weight.

Design and Build Quality: Small, Sturdy, and Ready for Anything

Compact Size, Big Impact

The first thing you’ll notice about the GoPro Hero3 Silver Edition is its size. It’s tiny—about the size of a matchbox—but don’t let that fool you. This camera is built for action. The silver body has a metallic sheen that feels premium, and the matte finish on the buttons gives it a tactile, non-slip grip. It’s lightweight, so you won’t even notice it’s there when you’re on the move.

One of my favorite design choices is the side-loading battery compartment. Unlike some cameras that require you to open the entire back, the Hero3 lets you swap batteries in seconds. That’s a game-changer if you’re on a long hike or filming a multi-day trip. I once ran out of juice halfway up a mountain trail, and having a spare battery on hand saved the day.

Waterproof Housing: Ready for the Depths

The included waterproof housing is a standout feature. Rated for depths up to 197 feet (60 meters), it’s perfect for snorkeling, kayaking, or even shallow diving. I took it on a beach trip, and while my friends were nervously keeping their phones in dry bags, I was filming underwater without a second thought.

The housing is made of durable polycarbonate, and the clear back lets you see the camera’s screen (though it’s not touch-enabled). The buttons are responsive, even underwater, though I found that pressing them requires a bit more force when the housing is on. It’s a small trade-off for peace of mind.

Mounting Options: Versatility at Its Best

The combo kit includes a range of mounts—helmet, handlebar, and adhesive mounts—that let you attach the camera almost anywhere. I used the handlebar mount for a mountain biking session, and the footage was rock-steady. The adhesive mounts are surprisingly strong; I stuck one to my kayak and didn’t lose it even after a few rough waves.

Pro tip: If you’re using adhesive mounts on a curved surface (like a helmet), warm them up with a hairdryer first. It helps the adhesive bond better and prevents them from peeling off mid-adventure.

Performance and Image Quality: Crisp, Clear, and Captivating

1080p Video: Smooth and Detailed

The Hero3 Silver Edition shoots 1080p video at 30 or 60 frames per second (fps). For most users, 60fps is the sweet spot—it gives you smooth, fluid footage, especially for fast-moving scenes. I tested this while riding a dirt bike, and the camera handled the motion beautifully. Even in low light (like at dusk), the footage remained sharp and detailed.

One thing to note: while the camera supports 1080p, it doesn’t shoot 4K. That’s not a dealbreaker for casual users, but if you’re a professional filmmaker or want the highest resolution possible, you might want to look at newer models. That said, the 1080p output is more than enough for sharing on social media or even editing into short films.

720p Slow Motion: A Hidden Gem

The camera also shoots 720p video at 120fps, which is perfect for slow-motion effects. I used this feature to capture a friend jumping into a pool, and the result was cinematic—the splash, the droplets, everything looked like it was in slow motion. It’s a fun way to add drama to your videos without needing expensive editing software.

Photo Quality: 11MP Still Images

The Hero3 Silver Edition takes 11MP still photos, which is impressive for an action camera. I used it to take landscape shots during a sunrise hike, and the colors were vibrant, with good dynamic range. The camera also has a burst mode (10 photos per second), which is great for capturing fast action—like a dog chasing a ball or a wave crashing.

One minor gripe: the photo quality isn’t as sharp as a dedicated DSLR or even a high-end smartphone. But for an action camera, it’s more than sufficient. Just don’t expect to blow up your photos to poster size.

Low-Light Performance: A Mixed Bag

Like most action cameras, the Hero3 struggles in very low light. The sensor is small, so it needs more light to produce clear images. In well-lit environments (like a sunny day or a brightly lit room), it’s excellent. But in dim lighting (like a campfire or a night hike), the footage gets grainy. The camera does have a “Night” mode, but it’s best used with a tripod to avoid motion blur.

Wi-Fi and Remote Control: Seamless Connectivity

Wi-Fi Remote: Your Pocket-Sized Director

The included Wi-Fi remote is a game-changer. It’s a small, waterproof device that lets you control the camera from up to 600 feet away. I used it while skiing—I mounted the camera on my helmet and controlled it from my jacket pocket. No more fumbling with buttons in the cold.

The remote has a simple interface: power, record, and mode buttons. It’s intuitive and works reliably. The only downside is that it uses the same battery type as the camera (a small lithium-ion), so you’ll need to charge both regularly. But the convenience far outweighs this minor hassle.

GoPro App: Control from Your Phone

The GoPro app (available for iOS and Android) lets you control the camera via Wi-Fi. It’s a great alternative if you don’t want to carry the remote. The app lets you start/stop recording, change settings, and even preview the camera’s view on your phone’s screen. I used this while filming a friend’s skateboard trick—I could frame the shot perfectly from a distance.

The app also lets you offload videos and photos directly to your phone, which is handy for quick edits or sharing on social media. Just keep in mind that transferring large files can take a while, especially if you’re using Wi-Fi.

Wi-Fi Range and Reliability

The Wi-Fi connection is generally stable, but it can be finicky in crowded areas (like festivals or busy streets) where there’s a lot of wireless interference. I once lost connection while filming at a crowded beach, which was frustrating. But in open areas (like hiking trails or ski slopes), it works flawlessly.

Battery Life and Storage: What You Need to Know

Battery Performance: Real-World Testing

The included rechargeable battery lasts about 2 hours when recording 1080p at 30fps. If you’re using 60fps or Wi-Fi, that drops to around 1.5 hours. I found this to be accurate in my tests. For longer adventures, I recommend carrying spare batteries—they’re affordable and easy to swap.

One tip: keep a spare battery in a warm pocket (like an inner jacket). Cold temperatures drain batteries faster, and I once lost half my battery life in just 30 minutes on a winter hike.

Storage: The 16MB Quirk

The camera has 16MB of internal memory, but don’t panic—that’s not where you’ll store your footage. The 16MB is for firmware and system files. You’ll need a microSD card (sold separately) for actual storage. The camera supports up to 64GB cards, which is more than enough for a full day of filming.

I used a 32GB card and got about 2 hours of 1080p footage. Just make sure you format the card in the camera before first use—this ensures compatibility and prevents file corruption.

Charging: Simple and Straightforward

The camera charges via USB, which is convenient. You can use a wall adapter, a computer, or even a portable battery pack. The battery charges fully in about 2 hours. The combo kit includes a USB cable, but no wall adapter, so you might need to use one from another device.

Accessories and Expandability: Customize Your Kit

What’s in the Box?

The GoPro Hero3 16MB Action Camera WiFi Combo Kit Extra CHDHE 301 Silver Edition includes:

• Hero3 Silver Edition camera
• Waterproof housing (60m depth rating)
• Rechargeable battery
• USB cable
• Wi-Fi remote (with charging cable)
• Helmet, handlebar, and adhesive mounts
• Quick-release buckle and thumb screw

Third-Party Accessories: Expand Your Options

One of the best things about GoPro is its ecosystem of accessories. You can buy additional mounts (like a chest harness or suction cup), extra batteries, or even external microphones for better audio. I added a floating hand grip—it’s great for water sports and doubles as a selfie stick.

Pro tip: stick to GoPro-branded accessories when possible. Third-party mounts might be cheaper, but they’re often less durable and don’t fit as securely.

Audio Quality: Room for Improvement

The built-in microphone is decent but not amazing. It picks up wind noise easily, especially during high-speed activities. I recommend using an external mic (like the GoPro Pro 3.5mm adapter with a lavalier mic) for interviews or vlogging. For action shots, the mic is fine—just don’t expect studio-quality sound.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Camera For?

After weeks of testing, I can confidently say that the GoPro Hero3 16MB Action Camera WiFi Combo Kit Extra CHDHE 301 Silver Edition is a fantastic choice for anyone who wants a reliable, versatile action camera without breaking the bank. It’s not perfect—the low-light performance could be better, and the 16MB internal memory is more of a technicality than a feature—but it excels where it matters most: capturing high-quality footage in a durable, easy-to-use package.

This camera is ideal for:

• Adventure enthusiasts who want to document hikes, bikes, and water sports.
• Content creators looking for a compact, high-quality camera for vlogs or social media.
• Families and travelers who want to capture memories without lugging around bulky gear.
• Beginners who are new to action cameras and want a user-friendly option.

If you’re a professional filmmaker or need 4K resolution, you might want to look at newer models. But for 90% of users, the Hero3 Silver Edition delivers outstanding value. It’s a camera that’s ready for anything—and with the Wi-Fi remote and app, it’s more versatile than ever.

In short: if you’re looking for a reliable, high-performance action camera that won’t let you down, the GoPro Hero3 Silver Edition is a solid choice. It’s not flashy, but it’s dependable, and that’s what matters when you’re out there chasing adventure.

Performance Comparison Table

Feature	GoPro Hero3 Silver Edition	GoPro Hero4 Silver	DJI Osmo Action
Max Video Resolution	1080p @ 60fps	1080p @ 60fps	4K @ 60fps
Photo Resolution	11MP	12MP	12MP
Slow Motion	720p @ 120fps	720p @ 120fps	1080p @ 120fps
Waterproof Depth (without housing)	60m (with housing)	40m (with housing)	11m (without housing)
Wi-Fi & App Support	Yes	Yes	Yes
Battery Life (1080p)	~2 hours	~2 hours	~1.5 hours

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the GoPro Hero3 16MB Action Camera WiFi Combo Kit stand out for action enthusiasts?

The GoPro Hero3 Silver Edition offers 1080p HD video, 16MP photos, and built-in Wi-Fi in a rugged, compact design. This combo kit includes extra mounts and accessories, making it ideal for capturing adventures without needing additional gear.

Does the GoPro Hero3 CHDHE-301 Silver Edition support wireless control?

Yes, the camera features built-in Wi-Fi, allowing you to control settings, preview shots, and share content via the GoPro app on your smartphone or tablet. This makes framing shots and switching modes much easier during active use.

How durable is the GoPro Hero3 16MB Action Camera for outdoor use?

The camera is designed for extreme conditions, waterproof up to 60 meters (197 feet) with the included housing. Its shockproof and dustproof build ensures reliable performance in high-impact sports like skiing, biking, or surfing.

What accessories come with the GoPro Hero3 WiFi Combo Kit Extra CHDHE-301?

This kit includes a waterproof housing, mounts for helmets and handlebars, a Wi-Fi remote, and extra batteries. These extras add value, letting you start filming right away without buying additional gear.

Can the GoPro Hero3 Silver Edition record in low-light environments?

While it performs best in well-lit conditions, the Hero3 has a wide-angle lens and decent low-light sensitivity for its time. For night or dim settings, using external lighting is recommended for clearer footage.

Is the 16MB internal storage on the GoPro Hero3 sufficient for long shoots?

The 16MB internal storage is minimal, but the camera supports up to 64GB microSD cards (not included) for extended recording. Always use high-speed cards to ensure smooth 1080p video capture without interruptions.