Are Vivitar Action Camera Mounts Compatible With GoPro The Ultimate Guide

Yes, many Vivitar action camera mounts are compatible with GoPro cameras, thanks to their standard GoPro-style attachment design. However, fit and stability can vary by model, so always verify compatibility with your specific GoPro and mount before use.

Key Takeaways

• Vivitar mounts fit GoPro: Most standard mounts are cross-compatible via the 1/4″-20 screw.
• Check mount design: Ensure no proprietary clips block GoPro’s quick-release mechanism.
• Use adapters for older models: Some Vivitar housings need a GoPro adapter for full compatibility.
• Verify weight limits: Vivitar mounts may not support heavier GoPro models securely.
• Test stability first: Always check mount tightness to avoid camera drops during action.
• Third-party options exist: Universal mounts offer better flexibility for mixed-brand setups.

Are Vivitar Action Camera Mounts Compatible With GoPro? The Ultimate Guide

So, you’ve just picked up a shiny new GoPro—maybe the Hero 12 Black or the compact Hero 11—and you’re ready to capture your next big adventure. Whether it’s mountain biking down a dusty trail, surfing epic waves, or filming your kid’s first soccer game from the sidelines, you want your footage to be smooth, stable, and epic. But here’s the thing: your GoPro is only as good as the gear that holds it in place. That’s where mounts come in.

Now, you might be eyeing some affordable Vivitar action camera mounts at your local electronics store or online. They look similar to GoPro mounts, come in multipacks, and cost a fraction of the price. It’s tempting—especially when you’re trying to save money. But before you snap them up, you’re probably wondering: Are Vivitar action camera mounts compatible with GoPro? It’s a smart question, and one that deserves a clear, honest answer. Because while saving money is great, you don’t want to risk your $400 camera on a mount that might fail mid-jump.

In this guide, we’re going to dive deep into the compatibility between Vivitar mounts and GoPro cameras. We’ll break down the technical details, share real-world experiences, and give you practical tips to help you make the best decision. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a content creator on a budget, this guide will help you understand what works, what doesn’t, and how to stay safe while filming your next adventure.

Understanding GoPro Mount Compatibility Basics

Before we get into whether Vivitar mounts work with GoPro, let’s talk about what makes a mount “GoPro compatible” in the first place. It’s not just about looking similar—it’s about engineering, design, and safety.

What Makes a Mount GoPro-Compatible?

GoPro cameras use a proprietary mounting system that’s been refined over more than a decade. The standard GoPro mount features a three-pronged latch mechanism that locks securely into the camera’s built-in mounting fingers. This design ensures a tight, vibration-resistant connection that can handle high-impact activities like skiing, motocross, or cliff diving.

Here’s how it works: the camera has two small “fingers” on the bottom (or back, depending on the model), and the mount has a corresponding slot with a spring-loaded latch. When you slide the camera into the mount, the latch clicks into place, holding it firmly. To remove the camera, you press the latch release button. It’s simple, reliable, and designed to prevent accidental detachment.

The Importance of the GoPro Mounting Standard

GoPro didn’t invent this system out of nowhere—it became the industry standard because it works. Over time, third-party manufacturers began making mounts that mimic this design, often labeling them as “GoPro compatible.” But “compatible” doesn’t always mean “identical.”

True GoPro compatibility means the mount:

• Fits the exact dimensions of GoPro’s mounting fingers
• Uses a secure latch mechanism (or a reliable alternative)
• Is made from durable materials that won’t crack under stress
• Has been tested with real-world use (not just lab simulations)

Many third-party mounts—including some from Vivitar—claim compatibility, but the quality can vary widely. Some work perfectly. Others? Not so much.

Why Compatibility Matters More Than You Think

Imagine this: you’re riding your bike down a rocky trail, camera mounted to your helmet. You hit a bump, the mount loosens, and your GoPro flies off—landing screen-first on a sharp rock. Ouch. That’s not just a broken camera; it’s a lost memory, wasted time, and a costly repair.

Compatibility isn’t just about fit—it’s about safety, reliability, and peace of mind. A poorly designed mount might hold your camera at first, but under vibration, heat, or impact, it could fail. And when it does, there’s no “undo” button.

That’s why it’s crucial to understand not just whether a mount fits, but whether it’s built to the same standards as GoPro’s own gear.

Vivitar Action Camera Mounts: An Overview

Now that we’ve covered the basics of GoPro mounting, let’s take a closer look at Vivitar—a brand you’ve probably seen in big-box stores like Walmart, Best Buy, or online marketplaces. Vivitar has been around for decades, known for offering budget-friendly electronics, including cameras, tripods, and action camera accessories.

Who Is Vivitar?

Vivitar started in the 1970s as a camera accessory company and has since expanded into a wide range of consumer electronics. They’re not a premium brand like GoPro or DJI, but they’ve carved out a niche by offering affordable alternatives to high-end gear. Their action camera mounts are often sold in colorful multipacks, with options for helmets, handlebars, chest straps, and more.

The appeal is clear: for under $20, you can get a whole kit of mounts that look almost identical to GoPro’s official versions. But as the saying goes, “You get what you pay for.” And when it comes to mounting a $400 camera, that’s a risk worth examining.

Common Types of Vivitar Mounts

Vivitar offers a variety of mounts designed for action cameras. Here are some of the most popular types you’ll find:

• Helmet mounts: Curved adhesive pads that stick to helmets or smooth surfaces.
• Handlebar mounts: Clamp-style mounts for bikes, motorcycles, or scooters.
• Chest mounts: Strap-on harnesses that hold the camera against your chest for POV shots.
• Suction cup mounts: For attaching to car windows, boats, or smooth surfaces.
• Tripod mounts: Small adapters that let you attach your camera to a standard tripod.

Many of these mounts come with a standard GoPro-style latch or a screw-based adapter. Some even include a “quick-release” mechanism that mimics GoPro’s design.

Design and Build Quality

Visually, Vivitar mounts often look nearly identical to GoPro’s. They use similar shapes, colors, and latch mechanisms. But when you pick them up, the differences become apparent.

Most Vivitar mounts are made from injection-molded plastic—lightweight and inexpensive, but not as durable as the reinforced composites used by GoPro. The latch mechanisms, in particular, can feel flimsy. Some users report that the plastic cracks after a few months of use, especially in cold weather or under heavy vibration.

That said, not all Vivitar mounts are created equal. Some of their higher-end kits (like the Vivitar Pro Series) use better materials and tighter tolerances. But even then, they’re not held to the same testing standards as GoPro’s official gear.

Are Vivitar Mounts Actually Compatible With GoPro?

This is the million-dollar question: Can you safely use Vivitar mounts with your GoPro? The short answer is: sometimes. But it depends on the specific mount, your camera model, and how you plan to use it.

Physical Fit: Does It Snap In?

In most cases, Vivitar mounts will physically fit a GoPro camera. The mounting fingers on GoPro cameras are standardized across models (Hero 5 through Hero 12), and Vivitar designs their mounts to match those dimensions. So, yes—your GoPro will likely slide into a Vivitar mount and click into place.

But “fitting” isn’t the same as “working reliably.” A mount might hold your camera at rest, but what happens when you’re skiing at 30 mph or riding over rough terrain?

Latch Mechanism: Secure or Slippery?

This is where things get tricky. GoPro’s latch is precision-engineered to stay locked under stress. Vivitar’s latches, while similar in appearance, often use cheaper springs and less precise molding. This can lead to:

• Loose fits: The camera doesn’t click in as firmly.
• Accidental releases: The latch pops open during movement.
• Wear and tear: The plastic wears down over time, making the fit even looser.

We’ve heard stories from users who lost their GoPro because a Vivitar helmet mount’s latch failed mid-ride. One Reddit user shared that their Hero 10 flew off during a mountain bike descent—only to be found cracked and unresponsive at the bottom of a ravine.

Material Durability: Will It Last?

GoPro mounts are tested for extreme conditions: freezing temperatures, high humidity, saltwater exposure, and repeated impacts. Vivitar mounts? Not so much.

Many users report that Vivitar mounts become brittle in cold weather or crack when dropped. The adhesive pads on helmet mounts often lose stickiness after a few uses, especially if exposed to sweat or rain.

If you’re using your GoPro for casual activities—like filming a family hike or a backyard skate session—a Vivitar mount might hold up just fine. But for high-impact sports or professional use, the risk increases significantly.

Real-World User Experiences

Let’s look at what actual users are saying. On Amazon, Vivitar mount kits often have 4-star ratings, but digging into the reviews reveals some red flags:

• “Mount worked great for a month, then the latch broke. Lost my GoPro on a bike ride.”
• “Fits my Hero 11, but feels loose. I’m afraid to use it for anything serious.”
• “Cheap plastic. The suction cup fell off my car window at highway speed.”
• “Good for the price, but I wouldn’t trust it on a motorcycle.”

On the flip side, some users report no issues: “I’ve used these for two years with my Hero 9. No problems at all.” But these tend to be casual users—not adrenaline junkies.

The takeaway? Vivitar mounts can work with GoPro, but they’re not consistently reliable. Your mileage may vary.

When It’s Safe (and When It’s Not) to Use Vivitar Mounts

So, should you use Vivitar mounts with your GoPro? The answer isn’t a simple yes or no—it depends on your use case, risk tolerance, and budget.

Safe Use Cases for Vivitar Mounts

There are situations where Vivitar mounts can be a reasonable choice—especially if you’re on a tight budget or just starting out.

Low-Impact Activities: If you’re filming everyday moments—like a walk in the park, a bike ride on smooth pavement, or a family picnic—a Vivitar mount might be perfectly adequate. The risk of failure is low, and the cost savings are real.

Backup or Secondary Mounts: Need an extra mount for a friend’s camera or a spare for travel? A Vivitar mount can serve as a temporary solution. Just don’t rely on it for your primary filming setup.

Indoor or Controlled Environments: Filming in a studio, at home, or in a controlled setting? The lack of vibration and impact makes Vivitar mounts less risky.

When to Avoid Vivitar Mounts

There are times when using a Vivitar mount is just not worth the risk.

High-Speed or High-Impact Sports: Mountain biking, motocross, skiing, snowboarding, surfing—these activities put extreme stress on mounts. A failed latch here could mean a broken camera or worse.

Professional or Commercial Use: If you’re filming for clients, creating content for YouTube, or relying on your footage for work, invest in reliable gear. A $20 mount isn’t worth losing a $500 project.

Extreme Weather Conditions: Cold, heat, rain, saltwater—these can degrade cheap plastic and adhesives quickly. If you’re filming in harsh environments, stick with GoPro-certified mounts.

Tips for Safer Use (If You Choose Vivitar)

If you decide to try Vivitar mounts, here are some tips to reduce risk:

• Test before you trust: Attach your camera and shake the mount vigorously. If it feels loose, don’t use it.
• Use a tether: Always attach a safety leash from the camera to your gear. This won’t prevent failure, but it can save your camera if the mount breaks.
• Inspect regularly: Check for cracks, wear, or loose parts before each use.
• Avoid extreme conditions: Don’t use Vivitar mounts in freezing temps, heavy rain, or high-speed scenarios.
• Buy from reputable sellers: Avoid counterfeit or no-name brands sold under the Vivitar name on third-party marketplaces.

GoPro Official Mounts vs. Vivitar: A Side-by-Side Comparison

To help you make an informed decision, let’s compare GoPro’s official mounts with Vivitar’s offerings across key categories.

Feature	GoPro Official Mounts	Vivitar Mounts
Build Quality	Reinforced composite plastic, precision-molded	Basic injection-molded plastic, variable quality
Latch Mechanism	Spring-loaded, secure click, tested for impact	Often flimsy, prone to accidental release
Durability	Tested for extreme conditions (cold, heat, vibration)	May crack or degrade under stress
Compatibility	Guaranteed fit with all GoPro models	Usually fits, but not always secure
Price	$15–$50 per mount	$5–$20 for multipacks
Warranty	1-year limited warranty	Varies; often limited or none
Best For	High-impact sports, professional use, peace of mind	Casual use, backups, low-risk activities

This table makes it clear: GoPro mounts are built to a higher standard. They cost more, but they offer reliability and safety that budget mounts simply can’t match.

Alternatives to Vivitar: Better Budget-Friendly Options

If you’re looking to save money but still want reliable mounts, Vivitar isn’t your only option. There are several third-party brands that offer better quality at still-affordable prices.

Top Alternatives to Vivitar

1. Telesin: Known for high-quality, GoPro-compatible mounts. Their products often use better plastics and tighter tolerances than Vivitar. Popular among budget-conscious creators.

2. Polaroid: Offers a range of action camera accessories with solid build quality. Their mounts are frequently compared favorably to GoPro’s in user reviews.

3. Smatree: Specializes in durable, weather-resistant mounts. Great for outdoor enthusiasts who need reliability without the GoPro price tag.

4. GoPro’s Own “Essentials” Line: GoPro now offers a more affordable line of mounts under the “GoPro Essentials” brand. These are officially licensed and tested, making them a safer budget choice.

Why These Are Better Than Vivitar

These brands focus on quality over cost-cutting. They use better materials, more precise manufacturing, and often include features like reinforced latches or anti-vibration designs. While they’re not as cheap as Vivitar, they’re still significantly less expensive than official GoPro mounts—and far more reliable.

For example, a Telesin helmet mount might cost $12 versus $25 for GoPro’s version, but it’s built to last and won’t leave you worrying about your camera flying off.

Final Verdict: Should You Use Vivitar Mounts With GoPro?

After weighing the pros and cons, here’s our honest take:

Vivitar action camera mounts are physically compatible with GoPro cameras—but they are not reliably safe for high-stakes use.

If you’re filming casual, low-impact activities and want to save money, a Vivitar mount might work in a pinch. But for anything involving speed, vibration, or risk, we strongly recommend investing in higher-quality alternatives—whether that’s GoPro’s official mounts or trusted third-party brands like Telesin or Smatree.

Your GoPro is an investment. Protect it with gear that’s built to the same standard. A few extra dollars now can save you hundreds—and a lot of heartache—later.

So, are Vivitar mounts compatible with GoPro? Technically, yes. But are they worth the risk? For most users, the answer is no.

Choose wisely, film safely, and keep capturing those epic moments—without worrying about your camera taking an unexpected dive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Vivitar action camera mounts compatible with GoPro cameras?

Most Vivitar action camera mounts are compatible with GoPro cameras because they typically use the standard GoPro mounting interface. However, always verify the product description to ensure it supports GoPro-style attachments.

Can I use a Vivitar mount for GoPro accessories like chest harnesses or tripods?

Yes, if the Vivitar mount follows the standard GoPro form factor, it will work with GoPro accessories like chest harnesses, tripods, and adhesive mounts. Double-check dimensions for non-standard accessories.

Do Vivitar mounts fit all GoPro models, including HERO12 and older versions?

Since Vivitar mounts rely on the universal GoPro mounting system, they should fit all GoPro models (HERO12, HERO11, etc.). The exception is mounts designed for specific GoPro housings or mods.

Are there any downsides to using Vivitar mounts instead of genuine GoPro mounts?

Vivitar mounts are generally more affordable but may lack the premium build quality of GoPro mounts. Ensure they’re made of durable materials for high-impact activities.

Where can I find Vivitar mounts that are guaranteed to fit my GoPro?

Check online retailers like Amazon or B&H, where Vivitar mounts often list GoPro compatibility in the product title or description. Look for “fits GoPro” or “GoPro-compatible” keywords.

Can I mix Vivitar mounts with other third-party GoPro accessories?

Yes, as long as all accessories use the standard GoPro mounting system, they’ll work together seamlessly. This includes mounts from brands like Smatree or Telesin.