If you’re an avid diver or snorkeler with a GoPro Hero 4, you know just how magical the underwater world is. But you also know the frustration of capturing dull, washed-out footage. That’s where a fantastic dive filter comes in! Underwater, natural light behaves differently, causing your videos and photos to appear overly blue or green, losing all the vibrant colors you see with your own eyes.
Investing in the best dive filter for GoPro Hero 4 is an absolute game-changer. These specialized filters are designed to correct the color balance, bringing back the reds, oranges, and yellows that get absorbed by water, making your underwater shots truly pop. Whether you’re exploring coral reefs, observing marine life, or simply enjoying a shallow snorkel, the right filter ensures your memories are as vivid on screen as they were in real life.
Choosing the perfect filter can be a bit daunting with so many options out there. We’ve dived deep (pun intended!) to review some of the top dive filters, helping you find the ideal match for your GoPro Hero 4, or even if you’re looking at options for newer models. Let’s explore the selections that can transform your underwater photography and videography!
Why Do You Need a Dive Filter for Your GoPro Hero 4?
Think of it like this: water acts as a giant blue or green filter, absorbing certain colors of the light spectrum more quickly than others. Red light disappears first, then orange, yellow, and so on. This is why everything looks so monochromatic underwater. A dive filter, also known as a color correction filter, works by selectively filtering out the dominant color (usually blue or green) at specific depths, allowing the warmer colors to be recorded by your GoPro’s sensor. This results in stunning, natural-looking footage with accurate color representation.
Things to Consider When Choosing Your Dive Filter
Before picking the best dive filter for GoPro Hero 4, keep these points in mind:
- Compatibility: Ensure the filter is designed for your specific GoPro model and, crucially, its waterproof housing. Many filters are made for the official GoPro Super Suit or standard housing.
- Water Type & Depth: Different filters are optimized for different water conditions (blue, green, shallow, deep). A red filter is typically for blue tropical waters, while a magenta filter is for green freshwater.
- Ease of Use: Can you easily snap it on or off underwater? Is it secure?
- Material Quality: Look for optical-grade materials that won’t distort your image.
- Kit Inclusions: Does it come with multiple filters, a carrying case, and safety tethers?
Now, let’s explore our top picks!
1. GEPULY 4 Pack Underwater Dive Filters for GoPro Hero 8…
While this particular GEPULY set is designed primarily for newer GoPro models (Hero 8 through 13), it showcases the excellent quality and versatility you can expect from GEPULY’s filter offerings. What makes it stand out is its comprehensive 4-filter set, providing professional color correction across various depths and water types, from blue tropical waters to green freshwater lakes, plus a handy close-up filter for detailed shots. It’s built for the official Super Suit housing, ensuring a snug and reliable fit.
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Key Features:
- Perfectly compatible with official Super Suit housing case for GoPro Hero 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 Black (not for camera lens directly or 3rd party housing).
- Professional color correction from 2 feet to 85 feet underwater.
- Includes Red (12-85 ft), Light Red (2-15 ft), Magenta (green water), and 5x Close-Up filters.
- Made of high transmission acrylic for clear photos and videos.
- Easy snap-on/off design.
- Comes with a drawstring bag with separate compartments and safety tethers.
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Pros:
- Comprehensive filter set for various conditions.
- High-quality optical materials.
- Easy to attach and remove.
- Includes useful 5x close-up filter.
- Comes with protective storage and safety tethers.
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Cons:
- Not directly compatible with GoPro Hero 4 (designed for Hero 8 and newer).
- Requires the official GoPro Super Suit housing.
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User Impressions: Users praise the clarity and effectiveness of these filters for their compatible GoPro models, noting a significant improvement in color vibrancy. The ease of switching filters underwater is also frequently highlighted as a major plus.
2. CamKix Diving Lens Filter Kit Compatible with GoPro Hero…
This CamKix kit is a direct hit for GoPro Hero 3+ and Hero 4 users, making it a strong contender for the best dive filter for GoPro Hero 4. It truly shines by offering a versatile set of filters specifically tailored to boost your underwater footage, enhancing colors and contrast instantly. The “clip & slip” system is incredibly user-friendly, allowing quick filter changes without fumbling, which is crucial when you’re underwater.
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Key Features:
- Specifically designed for GoPro HERO 3+ or HERO 4 standard waterproof housing.
- Enhances colors and improves contrast in various underwater conditions.
- Includes switchable Red (SWCY) filters for 5-20 ft, 20-50 ft, and 50+ ft.
- Features a Magenta (GR) filter for fresh or salt green water (20-130 ft).
- Includes a Yellow filter for night shooting (up to 130 ft).
- Easy ‘Clip & Slip’ system for quick filter changes.
- Each filter comes with a protective plastic sleeve.
- Complete kit includes filter holder, 5 filters, storage bags, tether, and cleaning cloth.
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Pros:
- Excellent direct compatibility with GoPro Hero 4.
- Multiple red filters for varying depths.
- Yellow filter is a unique and useful addition for low-light.
- Simple and efficient clip-on system.
- Comprehensive kit with all necessary accessories.
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Cons:
- Requires the standard waterproof housing (not included).
- Some users might find multiple red filters redundant if they stick to specific depths.
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User Impressions: Hero 4 owners consistently rave about how much this kit improves their underwater footage, citing vibrant colors and sharp details. The ease of use and variety of filters for different conditions are often praised.
3. SOONSUN 4-Pack Dive Filter for GoPro Hero 5 6 7…
While primarily designed for the GoPro Hero 5, 6, and 7 Black models, this SOONSUN 4-pack showcases a robust design and effective color correction, making it a fantastic example of a quality dive filter kit. Its standout feature is the inclusion of a 5x close-up macro filter, perfect for capturing intricate details of marine life or coral, alongside the essential color correction filters for blue, green, and shallow waters.
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Key Features:
- Compatible with GoPro original Super Suit housing case for HERO 5/6/7 Black, HERO (2018).
- Professional color correction for blue, green, and shallow waters.
- Includes Red, Light Red (snorkeling), and Magenta filters.
- Features a 5x Close-up Macro Filter for magnified details.
- Made of high transmission materials for HD photos and videos.
- Comes with a drawstring bag and 4 tethers.
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Pros:
- Excellent for compatible Hero models.
- Offers comprehensive color correction filters.
- Macro filter is a valuable addition for detailed shots.
- High-quality transmission materials.
- Includes protection and safety tethers.
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Cons:
- Not directly compatible with GoPro Hero 4 (designed for Hero 5/6/7).
- Requires official GoPro Super Suit housing.
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User Impressions: Customers frequently highlight the impressive color restoration and the fun of using the macro filter to capture tiny underwater subjects. The filters are noted for their durability and ease of attachment to compatible housings.
4. SOONSUN 4-Pack Underwater Dive Filters for GoPro Hero 13…
This SOONSUN 4-pack provides advanced filter options for the latest GoPro models (Hero 8-13), demonstrating the cutting-edge in dive filter technology. What sets this kit apart is its use of optical-grade acrylic for color filters and optical glass for the macro filter, ensuring superior clarity and light transmittance. It’s perfect for those who’ve upgraded their GoPro but want to understand the quality of filters available.
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Key Features:
- Designed specifically for official GoPro Super Suit housing case for Hero 13/12/11/10/9/8 Black.
- Professional color correction filters: Red (12-85 ft), Light Red (2-15 ft), Magenta (green water).
- 5X Macro Close-up Filter made from optical glass.
- Filters crafted from optical-grade acrylic for high light transmittance.
- Quick snap-on/off design.
- Travel-ready set with 4 filters, 4 safety tethers, and a soft drawstring pouch.
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Pros:
- High-quality optical materials for excellent clarity.
- Comprehensive filter set for various conditions.
- Macro filter made of superior optical glass.
- Easy and secure snap-on design.
- Well-packaged for travel and protection.
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Cons:
- Not directly compatible with GoPro Hero 4 (designed for Hero 8 and newer).
- Requires the official GoPro Super Suit housing.
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User Impressions: Users are highly impressed with the clarity and color accuracy these filters provide for their newer GoPros. The convenience of the snap-on design and the robust carrying pouch are also frequently praised.
5. SOONSUN Waterproof Housing Case with 4 Dive Filters for…
This SOONSUN product offers a unique advantage: it’s not just a filter kit, but a complete waterproof housing with integrated dive filters. While compatible with GoPro Hero 5, 6, 7 Black, and Hero (2018), this bundle is a fantastic option if you need both robust housing and high-quality filters. Its standout feature is the anti-scratch flat glass lens on the housing itself, ensuring maximum image sharpness both above and below water, making it a comprehensive solution for aquatic adventurers.
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Key Features:
- Waterproof housing case up to 147 feet (45 meters).
- Designed for GoPro Hero 7/6/5 Black and Hero (2018) cameras.
- Features anti-scratch high-strength flat glass lens for clarity.
- Includes 4-pack dive filters: Red, Light Red, Magenta, and 5x Macro.
- Filters fit this housing and are also compatible with official GoPro Super Suit housing for Hero 5/6/7 Black.
- Snap-on filter design for easy interchange underwater.
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Pros:
- Complete solution: housing and filters in one.
- Robust waterproof rating.
- Anti-scratch flat glass lens for clear shots.
- Versatile filters included.
- Filters are also compatible with official Super Suit housing for other models.
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Cons:
- Not directly compatible with GoPro Hero 4 (designed for Hero 5/6/7).
- May not be needed if you already have a reliable housing.
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User Impressions: Customers appreciate the all-in-one convenience and the protection this housing offers. The filters are noted for their effectiveness in color correction, and the clear lens of the housing itself receives high marks.
6. 4pc Filter Kit For GoPro Hero 3 Large Dive case….
If you’re still rocking an older Hero 3 or 3+ (which often share housing compatibility with the Hero 4), this 4pc Filter Kit can be a valuable find. Its unique selling proposition lies in offering not just standard color correction but also a warming filter and a neutral density (ND) filter. The ND filter is particularly useful for reducing shutter speed in bright conditions, allowing for creative motion blur effects, making it more than just a simple color corrector.
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Key Features:
- Filters designed for GoPro Hero3 Scuba Housing case (often compatible with Hero 3+/4 housings).
- Crafted from high optical grade acrylic for maximum sharpness.
- Snap on and off easily.
- Includes: Scuba Tropical Filter (red/blue water), Green Color Water Correction Filter (green water), Warming Filter, and Neutral Density (ND) Filter.
- Comes with a small carrying case.
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Pros:
- Potentially compatible with GoPro Hero 4 (check specific housing).
- Includes unique Warming and Neutral Density filters for creative control.
- High optical grade acrylic for clarity.
- Easy snap-on/off mechanism.
- Comes with a carrying case.
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Cons:
- Compatibility with Hero 4 needs verification based on your specific housing.
- May not include a dedicated macro filter.
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User Impressions: Users praise the dramatic improvement in underwater colors. The inclusion of the ND and warming filters is seen as a bonus for expanding creative possibilities beyond basic color correction.
7. GEPULY Waterproof Case for GoPro Hero 8 Black with 4-Pack…
Similar to a previous entry, this GEPULY offering provides a complete waterproof housing plus a 4-pack of dive filters, though it’s specifically for the GoPro Hero 8 Black. What makes this stand out is its impressive waterproof rating of up to 196 ft (60m) and the use of rustproof 316 stainless steel for metal parts, ensuring extreme durability in saltwater. It even features built-in cold shoe slots for attaching external accessories like lights, making it a versatile powerhouse for serious underwater videography with compatible models.
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Key Features:
- Waterproof housing designed for GoPro Hero 8 Black action camera.
- Waterproof up to 196 ft (60m) and rustproof with 316 stainless steel parts.
- Built-in 2 cold shoe slots with adapters for accessories.
- Made of solid transparent plastic with high transmission tempered flat glass lens (98% light transmission).
- Includes 4-pack filters: Red (blue water), Magenta (green water), Light Red (shallow water), and 5x Close-up Macro.
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Pros:
- Extremely deep waterproof rating.
- Rustproof materials for long-term use in saltwater.
- Cold shoe slots for expanding setup with lights/mics.
- High-quality lens for sharp images.
- Comprehensive filter set included.
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Cons:
- Not compatible with GoPro Hero 4 (specifically for Hero 8 Black).
- May be overkill if you only need filters and already have a housing.
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User Impressions: Customers love the robust build quality and the peace of mind offered by the deep waterproof rating. The added cold shoe mounts are a huge hit for those looking to professionalize their underwater video setup with external accessories.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Why do my GoPro underwater videos look so blue or green without a filter?
A1: Water absorbs different wavelengths of light at varying rates. Red and orange light are absorbed quickly, making everything appear blue or green at even shallow depths. A dive filter helps to correct this by filtering out the excess blue/green, allowing the camera to capture more natural colors.
Q2: Do I need a different filter for different depths or water types?
A2: Yes, generally! Red filters are best for blue tropical waters (like oceans) at varying depths (shallow, medium, deep). Magenta filters are ideal for green freshwater environments (like lakes or reservoirs). Some kits include light red filters for snorkeling or very shallow depths.
Q3: Can I use these filters without a waterproof housing?
A3: No, most dive filters for GoPro cameras are designed to snap onto the external waterproof housing, not directly onto the camera’s lens. This ensures a secure fit and proper optical alignment underwater.
Q4: Will a dive filter affect my footage quality above water?
A4: Yes, a dive filter is specifically designed for underwater color correction. Using it above water will result in an unnatural, strong red or magenta tint to your footage, making it look incorrect. Always remove your dive filter when shooting topside.
Q5: What is a macro filter and how do I use it?
A5: A macro filter (or close-up lens) magnifies small subjects, allowing you to get incredibly detailed shots of marine life, coral textures, or other tiny objects. You’d typically use it when you want to focus on something very close to your camera, often in conjunction with other filters for color correction.
Q6: How do I clean and maintain my GoPro dive filters?
A6: After each use, rinse your filters thoroughly with fresh water to remove any salt, sand, or debris. Use a soft, lint-free cloth or the included cleaning cloth to gently wipe them dry. Avoid abrasive materials or harsh chemicals that could scratch the filter. Store them in their protective pouches when not in use.
Q7: My GoPro Hero 4 often gets a lot of sun glare underwater. Will a dive filter help with this?
A7: While dive filters primarily address color correction, some may offer minor glare reduction. However, for significant sun glare, you might consider a separate polarizing filter (if available for your housing, though less common for underwater) or, more practically, adjust your shooting angle to minimize direct sunlight hitting the lens.
Conclusion
Capturing the breathtaking beauty of the underwater world with your GoPro Hero 4 shouldn’t be a struggle with color correction. By investing in the best dive filter for GoPro Hero 4, you unlock the true potential of your camera, transforming dull, blue footage into vibrant, true-to-life memories.
Whether you opt for a filter specifically designed for your Hero 4 like the CamKix kit, or explore options for potential future GoPro upgrades, the right filter is an indispensable accessory for any underwater adventurer. Don’t let muted colors dilute your incredible experiences – pick up a dive filter and start capturing the underwater world in all its vivid glory!
