The GoPro Hero 5 is still a fantastic action camera, a favorite for adventurers wanting to capture stunning 4K footage without breaking the bank. But to truly unlock its potential, you can’t just slap in any old memory card. The wrong card can lead to frustrating dropped frames, corrupted files, and lost memories. You need the best card for GoPro Hero 5 that can keep up with its demanding video capabilities.
Choosing the right microSD card is absolutely crucial for seamless 4K video recording, high-resolution photos, and quick data transfers. We’re talking about cards designed for extreme performance and durability, ensuring your precious moments are safe and sound, no matter where your adventures take you. While the GoPro Hero 5 officially supports up to 128GB cards, many modern high-speed cards with larger capacities can still perform well.
In this guide, we’ll dive into the top 9 best SD cards for GoPro Hero 5, helping you pick the perfect one to keep your adventures rolling without a hitch. We’re focusing purely on memory cards, so let’s get into it!
Reviews of the Best SD Cards for GoPro Hero 5
Here are our top picks for the best card for GoPro Hero 5, ensuring you get the performance and reliability you need.
1. GIGASTONE 512GB Micro SD Card with Free Data Recovery
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The GIGASTONE 512GB Micro SD Card stands out not just for its generous storage capacity but also for its incredibly reassuring 5-year limited warranty that includes free data recovery. For those heart-stopping moments when you think your footage might be lost forever, this feature alone makes it a serious contender. It’s built for speed, ready to handle your GoPro Hero 5’s 4K video demands with ease, making it a reliable choice for capturing every detail of your adventures.
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Key Features:
- Read/Write Speeds: Up to 100/60 MB/s
- V30 speed grade for Ultra HD (UHD) 4K video recording
- A2 grade for faster App loading performance on smartphones & tablets
- Expand smartphone internal storage space; run apps on Micro SD card
- Wide compatibility with cameras, drones, smartphones, and gaming devices
- 5-year limited warranty including free data recovery service
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Pros:
- Excellent read/write speeds for 4K video
- Generous 512GB capacity (though Hero 5 officially supports 128GB, many users report success with larger cards)
- Free data recovery service is a huge bonus
- A2 rating for improved app performance
- Highly durable and compatible
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Cons:
- 512GB might be an overkill or less stable for older Hero 5 models compared to 128GB
- Data recovery process might take time if needed
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User Impressions: Users frequently praise the Gigastone card for its robust performance, especially appreciating the peace of mind offered by the data recovery service. Many find it holds up well to continuous 4K recording, though some Hero 5 users might opt for a smaller capacity for guaranteed compatibility.
2. SanDisk Extreme Pro 64GB 4K Memory Card
SanDisk’s Extreme Pro line is practically synonymous with high performance, and this 64GB card is no exception. It’s specifically engineered to keep up with demanding tasks like 4K UHD video and burst-mode photography, making it an ideal companion for your GoPro Hero 5. With its V30 and U3 speed ratings, you can be confident your footage will be smooth and free from dropped frames, even during the most intense action.
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Key Features:
- UHS Speed Class Video 30 (V30) and UHS Speed Class 3 (U3) for 4K UHD and Full HD video
- Extreme speeds up to 100MB/s read
- Supports UHS-I for next-generation mobile devices
- Compatible with GoPro Hero 5, Hero 6, Fusion, Hero 4, and other models
- Includes an Everything But Stromboli Memory Card Reader for easy transfers
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Pros:
- Top-tier performance for 4K video recording
- Highly reliable and durable (temperature, water, shock, x-ray proof)
- Excellent brand reputation for quality and reliability
- Included card reader adds convenience
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Cons:
- 64GB might be limiting for extended 4K recording sessions
- Can be a bit pricier than standard cards
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User Impressions: This card consistently receives rave reviews for its reliability and speed. GoPro users, particularly, love how it handles their 4K and high-framerate footage without a hitch. It’s often cited as a go-to choice for serious action cam enthusiasts.
3. TEAMGROUP GO Card 256GB Micro SDXC
The TEAMGROUP GO Card 256GB offers a compelling blend of speed and resilience, designed to thrive in the same demanding environments as your GoPro Hero 5. With solid read and write speeds, it ensures your 4K videos are captured flawlessly and transferred swiftly. What really sets it apart is its comprehensive four-fold protection – waterproof, dustproof, x-ray proof, and cold resistant – making it truly ready for any adventure you throw at it.
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Key Features:
- Read & Write Speeds: Up to 100MB/s and 50MB/s
- UHS-I U3 V30 rating for 4K video recording
- Four trustworthy protections: waterproof, dustproof, x-ray proof, and cold resistant
- Adopts new printing technology for an eco-friendly product
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Pros:
- Great balance of speed and storage capacity
- Exceptional durability for extreme conditions
- Eco-friendly manufacturing process
- Reliable for consistent 4K capture
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Cons:
- 256GB might occasionally challenge the Hero 5’s official capacity support
- Write speed, while good, isn’t the absolute fastest on the market
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User Impressions: Customers often highlight the TEAMGROUP GO card’s toughness and ability to withstand harsh conditions, making it perfect for outdoor activities. They also appreciate its consistent performance for video recording, praising it as a solid, dependable choice.
4. SanDisk Extreme 128GB Micro SDXC Memory Card
This SanDisk Extreme 128GB card is a popular choice for GoPro users, striking a perfect balance between ample storage and high performance. It boasts impressive transfer speeds, ensuring that offloading your epic 4K adventures is quick and painless. Like other SanDisk Extreme cards, it’s built to withstand the elements, making it an incredibly durable and reliable companion for your GoPro Hero 5, no matter how wild your escapades get.
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Key Features:
- Transfer speeds: 160MB/s read and 90MB/s write speeds
- Temperature-proof, water-proof, shock-proof, and x-ray proof
- Compatible with GoPro Hero 7, Hero 6, Hero 5, Karma Drone, and older models
- Includes an Everything But Stromboli Micro Card Reader
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Pros:
- Excellent balance of capacity and speed for GoPro Hero 5
- Extremely durable for demanding environments
- High write speeds perfect for continuous 4K recording
- Trusted brand reliability
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Cons:
- May not be the absolute cheapest option per GB
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User Impressions: This card is a fan favorite among GoPro users for its consistent performance and robust build. Many report zero issues with 4K recording and appreciate its ability to shrug off harsh conditions. The bundled card reader is also a nice touch for quick workflow.
5. SanDisk Extreme 128GB Micro SD (GoPro Multi-Compatible)
Another strong contender from SanDisk, this 128GB Extreme Micro SD card is designed with broad compatibility in mind, making it a great fit not just for the GoPro Hero 5 but a wide range of action cameras. Its high read and write speeds ensure your 4K footage is captured smoothly, and its Class 10, U3, and V30 ratings guarantee optimal performance for high-resolution video. Plus, its rugged design means it’s ready for any adventure you throw at it.
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Key Features:
- Transfer speeds: Up to 160MB/s read and 90MB/s write
- Class 10, UHS Speed Class 3 (U3), A2, Video 30 (V30) for 4K UHD and Full HD
- Temperature-proof, water-proof, shock-proof, and x-ray proof
- Compatible with GoPro Hero 9, Hero 5, DJI, Apeman, Kodak, and many other action cameras
- Includes Everything But Stromboli MicroSD Card Reader
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Pros:
- Very high read and write speeds for seamless 4K capture
- Excellent durability for extreme conditions
- A2 rating for faster app performance (if used with phones/tablets)
- Broad compatibility with various action cameras
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Cons:
- May overlap significantly with other SanDisk Extreme products (choose based on best bundle/price)
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User Impressions: Users consistently praise this SanDisk Extreme card for its dependable performance across multiple GoPro models, including the Hero 5. It’s often recommended for its consistent ability to record smooth 4K video without errors, even in challenging environments.
6. Mystor GoPro Micro SD Card for Hero Series
The Mystor GoPro Micro SD Card is engineered specifically for GoPro Hero cameras, offering reliable performance for capturing your action-packed footage. Whether you’re recording 4K video or shooting slow-motion, its fast write speeds and durable construction ensure your memories are safe. Its robust design, being shockproof, waterproof, and temperature-resistant, means it’s built to withstand the same adventures as your GoPro Hero 5.
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Key Features:
- Perfect for GoPro Hero cameras: Hero 4 through Hero 13 (broad compatibility)
- High Performance for Action Shots: Ensures fast data transfers and seamless recording
- Class 10, UHS-1, and U3 V30 video speed ratings for high-quality video capture
- Durable Design: Shockproof, waterproof, and temperature-resistant
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Pros:
- Optimized for GoPro Hero camera line
- Strong performance for 4K and slow-motion video
- Excellent durability for rugged use
- Provides ample storage for adventures
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Cons:
- Brand recognition might be less than market leaders
- Specific read/write speeds aren’t explicitly listed beyond ratings
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User Impressions: Many users find the Mystor card to be a surprisingly capable and reliable option for their GoPros. They appreciate its specific focus on action cameras, reporting smooth video recording and good durability, especially given its competitive pricing.
7. SanDisk Extreme 128GB Micro SD (Dual Pack)
Why settle for one when you can have two? This bundle of two SanDisk Extreme 128GB Micro SD cards offers incredible value, ensuring you always have a backup or enough storage for extended trips. Each card delivers the high-speed, durable performance SanDisk is known for, perfect for your GoPro Hero 5’s 4K video needs. It’s a fantastic option for serious content creators or anyone who simply wants to capture more without constantly offloading footage.
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Key Features:
- Includes (2) 128GB Micro SD SanDisk Memory cards
- Transfer speeds: Up to 160MB/s read and 90MB/s write speeds
- V30 and UHS-3 rating, UHS Speed Class 3 (U3), Class 10, A2, 4K UHD and Full HD support
- Temperature-proof, water-proof, shock-proof, and x-ray proof
- Compatible with GoPro Hero 10 (and older like Hero 5) and other action cameras
- Includes Everything But Stromboli MicroSD Card Reader
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Pros:
- Excellent value with two high-performance cards
- Reliable SanDisk Extreme performance for 4K video
- Extreme durability for any adventure
- Ample storage for extended shooting sessions
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Cons:
- If you only need one card, part of the bundle might be unnecessary
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User Impressions: Customers love the convenience and value of this dual-pack, especially those who shoot a lot of footage or prefer to swap cards rather than delete. They report the same stellar performance and durability as single SanDisk Extreme cards, making it a highly recommended choice.
8. SanDisk Extreme 256GB Micro SDXC Memory Card
For those who simply can’t get enough storage, the SanDisk Extreme 256GB Micro SDXC card is a top-tier choice. While the GoPro Hero 5 officially supports up to 128GB, many users successfully employ 256GB cards for even longer 4K recording sessions. This card delivers the blazing-fast transfer speeds and legendary durability that SanDisk is famous for, ensuring that your extended adventures are captured and stored flawlessly.
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Key Features:
- 256GB Micro Extreme A2 Memory card
- Transfer speeds: 160MB/s read and 90MB/s write speeds
- Temperature-proof, water-proof, shock-proof, and x-ray proof
- Compatible with GoPro Hero 7, Hero 6, Hero 5, Karma Drone, and older models
- Includes Everything But Stromboli Card Reader
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Pros:
- Massive storage capacity for extended 4K recording
- Blazing fast read and write speeds
- Unmatched durability for extreme conditions
- A2 rating for improved app performance
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Cons:
- 256GB might occasionally lead to compatibility nuances with the older Hero 5 firmware (though often fine)
- Might be more capacity than some users truly need
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User Impressions: Users looking for maximum storage often opt for this card and are generally pleased with its performance on newer GoPros and often on the Hero 5 as well. They praise its speed and reliability for handling large files and lengthy recording sessions, appreciating the convenience of less frequent card swaps.
9. SanDisk Extreme 128GB Micro SD Card (GoPro Compatible)
Rounding out our list is another excellent SanDisk Extreme 128GB card, bundled with a card reader for seamless data transfer. This card is a workhorse, offering the ideal balance of capacity and the high-speed performance needed for your GoPro Hero 5’s 4K and Full HD video recording. Its U3, A2, and V30 ratings mean it’s ready for everything from immersive 360° video to action-packed slow-motion shots, all while standing up to the toughest conditions.
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Key Features:
- 128GB SanDisk Extreme MicroSD Card (Bundle includes 64GB or actual 128GB based on variant)
- Compatible with Hero 6, Hero 5, Karma Drone, Hero 4, and older models
- Temperature-proof, water-proof, shock-proof, and x-ray proof
- Transfer speeds: Up to 160MB/s read and 90MB/s write speeds
- UHS Speed Class 3 (U3), A2, Video 30 (V30) for 4K UHD and Full HD
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Pros:
- Optimal 128GB capacity for Hero 5 without compatibility worries
- High read and write speeds for smooth 4K video
- Extreme durability for all types of adventures
- Included card reader enhances workflow
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Cons:
- Features might state a 64GB bundle, but the main card is 128GB – verify product listing
- Similar to other SanDisk options, so check pricing for the best deal
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User Impressions: This card is a perennial favorite, often recommended by fellow GoPro users for its sheer reliability. Customers confirm its ability to handle demanding video modes on the Hero 5 without dropping frames, and its ruggedness is frequently highlighted as a major plus for adventure sports.
Conclusion
Choosing the best card for GoPro Hero 5 is paramount to capturing all your adventures without a hitch. While all the cards on our list offer excellent performance and durability, your ideal choice will depend on your specific needs regarding storage capacity and budget.
For balanced performance and capacity, the SanDisk Extreme 128GB options are often the sweet spot. If you want maximum peace of mind, the Gigastone with data recovery is a unique offering. And if you’re frequently capturing massive amounts of 4K footage, a 256GB card from SanDisk or Teamgroup, used with awareness of the Hero 5’s official specs, could be your go-to.
No matter which you choose, investing in a high-quality, high-speed microSD card is the smartest way to ensure your GoPro Hero 5 continues to deliver stunning results for years to come. Happy adventuring!
FAQ Section
Q1: What kind of SD card does the GoPro Hero 5 use?
A1: The GoPro Hero 5 Black and Session models use a microSD card. Specifically, it requires a high-quality microSD card with a minimum of Class 10 or UHS-I (U3) rating for optimal performance, especially when recording 4K video.
Q2: What is the maximum storage capacity supported by the GoPro Hero 5?
A2: Officially, the GoPro Hero 5 supports microSD cards up to 128GB. While some users have reported success with 256GB cards, staying within the official 128GB limit is generally recommended for guaranteed stability and performance.
Q3: What do UHS-I U3 and V30 mean for my GoPro Hero 5?
A3: UHS-I U3 (Ultra High Speed Class 3) and V30 (Video Speed Class 30) are critical ratings for your GoPro Hero 5. They indicate that the card has a sustained minimum write speed of 30 MB/s, which is essential for smooth 4K video recording, preventing dropped frames, and ensuring high-quality footage.
Q4: Can I use any brand of microSD card with my GoPro Hero 5?
A4: While many brands produce microSD cards, it’s highly recommended to stick with reputable brands known for quality and reliability, such as SanDisk, Gigastone, and Teamgroup. Generic or unbranded cards may not meet the necessary speed and durability standards for your GoPro, leading to performance issues or data loss.
Q5: Why is a high-speed microSD card important for GoPro action cameras?
A5: High-speed microSD cards are crucial because GoPro cameras, especially when recording 4K or high frame rate video, generate a large amount of data very quickly. A fast card can write this data efficiently, preventing recording errors, dropped frames, stuttering video, and corrupted files, ensuring your footage is smooth and complete.
Q6: How often should I format my GoPro SD card?
A6: It’s a good practice to format your microSD card directly in your GoPro Hero 5 regularly, ideally before each significant shooting session or after offloading important footage. Formatting helps keep the card optimized for your camera, clears out any fragmented files, and prevents potential errors.
Q7: What features should I look for beyond speed and capacity?
A7: Beyond speed and capacity, look for cards with durability features like being waterproof, temperature-proof, shockproof, and X-ray proof. These features protect your data in the adventurous environments GoPros are designed for. An A2 rating is also beneficial if you plan to use the card for app performance on other devices.
Q8: Will using a larger capacity card (e.g., 256GB) void my GoPro Hero 5 warranty?
A8: Using a larger capacity card than officially supported (128GB for Hero 5) typically won’t void your camera’s warranty, but GoPro might not offer support for performance issues directly related to the card’s incompatibility or instability if it’s over the recommended limit. Always back up your data!
