So, you’re still rocking the legendary GoPro Hero 3+ Black Edition? Awesome! It’s a classic for a reason, a true workhorse that captured countless adventures back in the day. While it might not boast the latest bells and whistles of today’s action cameras, it’s still perfectly capable of shooting great footage, especially if you pair it with the right gear or consider smart upgrades.
Finding the best for GoPro Hero 3+ Black Edition can be a bit tricky now that newer models are out. Many accessories are universal, but what about the big leaps in tech? This article isn’t just about finding direct accessories; it’s also about looking at “the best” options that might mean upgrading your setup entirely. We’ll dive into a mix of essential add-ons that truly enhance your Hero 3+ experience and explore why the latest GoPro cameras might be the ultimate “upgrade” if you’re chasing top-tier performance.
Let’s check out some top picks that can genuinely level up your content, whether you’re sticking with your trusty Hero 3+ or contemplating a significant leap forward.
Professional Ultra SanDisk MicroSDHC 32GB
Even the most epic adventure needs reliable storage! This Professional Ultra SanDisk MicroSDHC card is a fantastic pick for your Hero 3+ Black Edition, ensuring you’ve got plenty of space for those high-quality 4K videos and burst photos. It’s a workhorse memory card designed for action cameras, offering the speed and reliability you need so you don’t miss a single shot. This is a genuinely compatible and necessary accessory if you want the best for GoPro Hero 3+ Black Edition in terms of storage.
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Key Features:
- High-speed data transfer for quick offloading.
- Ideal for 4K video recording and high-resolution photos.
- Durable design built to withstand harsh conditions.
- Compatible with a wide range of devices, including older GoPros.
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Pros:
- Reliable performance for consistent recording.
- Affordable and essential for any GoPro user.
- Plenty of space for extended shooting sessions.
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Cons:
- 32GB might be limiting for very long trips at max quality.
- Not as future-proof for newer cameras requiring much faster U3/V30+ speeds (though perfect for Hero 3+).
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User Impressions: Users frequently praise this card for its solid performance and compatibility with older devices. It’s a go-to for many who need dependable storage without breaking the bank. It just works, plain and simple.
See it on Amazon here
GoPro HERO12 Black Creator Edition
Alright, let’s be real: while your Hero 3+ is a champ, technology marches on. If you’re seriously asking what’s the “best” in the GoPro world for capturing content today, it often means looking at the latest models. The GoPro HERO12 Black Creator Edition isn’t an accessory for your Hero 3+; it’s a complete powerhouse upgrade. This isn’t just a camera; it’s an all-in-one content creation studio right out of the box, combining the HERO12 Black with key accessories like Volta, Media Mod, and Light Mod. If you’re looking to elevate your filmmaking and vlogging game way beyond what your Hero 3+ can do, this is it.
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Key Features:
- All-in-One Creative Solution: Includes HERO12 Black, Volta (battery grip/tripod/remote), Media Mod, and Light Mod.
- All-Day Capture: Combined power of Enduro battery and Volta grip for over 5 hours of 4K30 recording.
- High Dynamic Range (HDR) Video plus Photo: Captures stunning detail in shadows and highlights for both video and photos.
- Unbelievable Image Quality: 5.3K video (91% more resolution than 4K) and 27MP photos with HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilization.
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Pros:
- Unparalleled image quality and stabilization compared to older models.
- Extended battery life for all-day shooting.
- Integrated accessories make it a complete pro setup.
- Super versatile for vlogging, filmmaking, and live streaming.
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Cons:
- Significant investment compared to just buying an accessory.
- Much larger and heavier than a bare Hero 3+.
- A completely new camera, not an add-on for your existing one.
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User Impressions: Content creators absolutely rave about the Creator Edition, highlighting its incredible battery life, superior image quality, and the convenience of having all the essential mods integrated. It’s often seen as the ultimate package for serious creators.
See it on Amazon here
GoPro HERO13 Black Ultra Wide Edition
Again, the GoPro HERO13 Black Ultra Wide Edition is a brand-new camera, not an accessory for your Hero 3+. However, if you’re seeking the absolute best for GoPro Hero 3+ Black Edition in terms of immersive field of view and cutting-edge stabilization, and you’re open to upgrading your camera entirely, this is a top contender. It comes with the Ultra Wide Lens Mod pre-attached, giving you an unbelievably expansive perspective right out of the box. Imagine capturing more of the action, the sky, and the horizon than ever before – it’s a game-changer for POV footage and landscape shots.
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Key Features:
- Ultra Wide Lens Mod Included: Boosts FOV up to 177° for hyper-immersive footage.
- Pro-Quality 4K60 Video: Crisp detail with multiple digital lens options (Linear, Wide, Ultra Wide, SuperView, HyperView).
- Unbreakable HyperSmooth Stabilization: Next-level in-camera stabilization in every resolution, plus AutoBoost.
- Easy Vertical Capture: Optimized for social media shots without rotating the camera.
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Pros:
- Incredibly immersive wide-angle shots are a breeze.
- Industry-leading video stabilization makes shaky footage a thing of the past.
- Excellent 4K quality for stunning visuals.
- Designed for modern social media formats.
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Cons:
- A full camera replacement, not an accessory.
- Premium price tag.
- The ultra-wide perspective might not always be desired for every shot.
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User Impressions: Users are blown away by the immersive field of view and the buttery-smooth stabilization. Many feel it truly brings you “into the action,” making it a favorite for extreme sports and vast landscape videography.
See it on Amazon here
GoPro HERO13 Black Accessory Bundle
Similar to the Creator Edition, the GoPro HERO13 Black Accessory Bundle isn’t for your Hero 3+; it’s a comprehensive package for the modern HERO13 Black camera itself. However, if you’re looking for the ultimate “best” experience that a GoPro can offer today, this bundle provides a fantastic starting point. It’s packed with crucial items like the floating hand grip (The Handler), extra batteries, and a high-capacity SD card – all designed to make the most of the cutting-edge HERO13 Black. This bundle is about getting the best for GoPro Hero 3+ Black Edition in terms of upgrade value if you decide to move to a newer generation.
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Key Features:
- HB-Series Lens Compatibility: Auto-detection for Ultra Wide, Macro, ND Filters, and Anamorphic Lens Mods.
- Best-in-Class 5.3K Video: Breathtaking image quality with 91% more resolution than 4K.
- Burst Slo-Mo: Record at 13x normal speed, or 4x slo-mo in 5.3K.
- Rugged + Waterproof: Built tough and waterproof down to 33ft (10m).
- Bundle Includes: The Handler, 2 Enduro Batteries, 2 Curved Adhesive Mounts, 64GB SanDisk MicroSD Card, and a Carrying Case.
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Pros:
- Excellent value with essential accessories included.
- Superior 5.3K video quality for stunning detail.
- Incredible slo-motion capabilities.
- Built to withstand harsh environments.
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Cons:
- Requires a significant investment in a new camera system.
- Accessories are for the HERO13 Black, not backward compatible with Hero 3+.
- Full functionality relies on the GoPro Quik app.
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User Impressions: This bundle is highly praised for its comprehensive value, giving new HERO13 owners everything they need to get started right away. Users love the included accessories and the stunning video quality.
See it on Amazon here
GoPro HERO13 Black Creator Edition
The GoPro HERO13 Black Creator Edition, much like its HERO12 counterpart, is the newest iteration of an all-in-one content creation powerhouse. While definitely not an accessory for your Hero 3+ Black Edition, this camera system represents the pinnacle of “the best” when it comes to simplified, professional-grade vlogging, filmmaking, and live streaming within the GoPro ecosystem. If you’re past finding tiny enhancements for an older model and are ready to fully embrace modern content creation with top-tier performance, this is the direction to go.
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Key Features:
- All-in-one content capturing powerhouse for vlogging, filmmaking, and live streaming. (Details on specific mods/battery not provided, but generally implies similar setup to HERO12 Creator Edition with latest HERO13 advancements).
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Pros:
- Latest GoPro technology for superior image quality and features.
- Streamlined setup for creators.
- Excellent for professional and aspiring content creators.
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Cons:
- A full camera system, not an accessory for Hero 3+.
- Premium price point.
- Specific feature details for this listing are minimal, but it’s presumed to carry the top-tier features of the HERO13 line.
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User Impressions: As the newest Creator Edition, users expect and generally receive top-tier performance for their content needs, particularly appreciating the integrated solution for vlogging and social media.
See it on Amazon here
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I still buy accessories specifically for the GoPro Hero 3+ Black Edition?
A1: Yes, many third-party manufacturers still make accessories like batteries, cases, and mounts that are compatible with the Hero 3+. For genuine GoPro brand accessories, stock might be limited as GoPro focuses on newer models, but universal mounts and some general accessories will still work.
Q2: What’s the main difference between the GoPro Hero 3+ Black Edition and the newer Hero 12 or 13 models?
A2: The newer models offer significant advancements in image quality (higher resolutions like 5.3K, better low-light performance), vastly improved HyperSmooth stabilization, longer battery life (especially with Enduro batteries), advanced audio features, and built-in displays (front and rear). They also have more advanced processing power, allowing for features like Hindsight and easier social media integration.
Q3: Is it worth upgrading from a Hero 3+ Black Edition to a newer GoPro model?
A3: If you’re serious about getting the best video quality, stabilization, and modern features, an upgrade is definitely worth it. The leap in technology between the Hero 3+ and Hero 12/13 is immense, offering professional-level footage that wasn’t possible before. However, if your needs are basic and you’re happy with your current footage, your Hero 3+ can still serve you well.
Q4: Will my old Hero 3+ mounts work with the new GoPro Hero 12 or 13 cameras?
A4: Yes, happily! Most GoPro mounts use a universal quick-release buckle system, so your existing adhesive mounts, chest mounts, head straps, and tripod adapters should be perfectly compatible with newer GoPro cameras.
Q5: What kind of SD card is best for a GoPro Hero 3+ Black Edition?
A5: The GoPro Hero 3+ Black Edition generally performs well with a Class 10 or UHS-I (U1) microSDHC card. While newer cameras benefit from faster UHS-III (U3) or V30 cards, a good quality Class 10/UHS-I card like the SanDisk Professional Ultra 32GB reviewed above is perfectly adequate and will give you reliable performance for all resolutions the Hero 3+ can shoot.
Q6: My GoPro Hero 3+ Black Edition battery drains quickly. Are there any solutions?
A6: Older batteries naturally lose capacity over time. The best solution is to purchase new, high-quality replacement batteries (either genuine GoPro or reputable third-party brands). Also, ensure your camera has the latest firmware, as updates can sometimes improve power efficiency. Turning off Wi-Fi when not in use and reducing screen brightness can also help.
Q7: Can I use the GoPro Quik app with my Hero 3+ Black Edition?
A7: The GoPro Quik app primarily supports newer GoPro models for full control, live preview, and quick edits. While you might be able to transfer media, you won’t have the full range of features and connectivity options available with the Hero 3+ that you would with a Hero 8 or newer. For full functionality, the Hero 3+ typically relies on its older app versions or manual transfer.
