Thinking about capturing those mesmerizing slow-motion shots with your trusty GoPro Hero 3? You’re in luck! While the GoPro Hero 3 series might be a few years old, it still packs a punch for creators looking to achieve fantastic slow-motion effects without breaking the bank. Whether you’re recording thrilling action sequences, capturing the delicate flow of water, or just want to add a dramatic flair to your videos, the best GoPro Hero 3 for slow motion relies not just on the camera itself, but also on the right accessories to keep it powered and protected.
You see, shooting slow motion, especially at higher frame rates, can be quite power-intensive for any action camera. This means battery life becomes super crucial. Plus, having the right setup ensures you can get the most out of your camera’s capabilities. We’ve rounded up some of the top picks that will help you maximize your vintage GoPro’s potential for high-speed recording and create stunning, smooth playback. Let’s dive in and see what makes these accessories essential for your slow-motion adventures.
1. Suptig Battery (2 Pack) and Dual Charger for GoPro Hero
When you’re aiming for extended slow-motion clips, power is your best friend. The Suptig Battery and Dual Charger pack is a game-changer, offering a reliable power source to keep your GoPro Hero 3 running longer. This set provides two high-capacity batteries and a versatile dual charger, ensuring you spend less time waiting and more time capturing those epic moments. It’s perfect for ensuring your GoPro Hero 3 for slow motion is always ready for action.
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Key Features:
- 1050mAh / 3.7V / 4.9Wh Li-ion batteries for extended life.
- Dual charger simultaneously charges two batteries.
- Unique PCB safety circuit design for secure use.
- Compatible with HERO3 and HERO3+ models.
- Supports MINI USB, MICRO USB, and iPhone 4 data cable interfaces for charging versatility.
- Compact charger size (1.9×1.77×0.51 in).
- Charges two batteries fully in about 2:30-3 hours with a 1A adapter.
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Pros:
- Extends shooting time significantly.
- Convenient dual-battery charging.
- Multiple charging cable options.
- Safety features built-in.
- Great value for money.
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Cons:
- 1A adapter not included (common for most chargers).
- May not have the same brand recognition as official GoPro accessories.
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User Impressions: Users frequently praise this pack for its excellent battery life and the convenience of being able to charge two batteries at once. Many consider it an essential backup for long shooting sessions, especially for demanding video modes like slow motion.
2. GoPro HERO3: Black Edition
Of course, no discussion about the best GoPro Hero 3 for slow motion would be complete without highlighting the camera itself! The GoPro HERO3: Black Edition was a powerhouse in its day, offering impressive frame rates that are still more than capable of delivering stunning slow-motion footage. With its versatile shooting modes and built-in Wi-Fi, it allows for creative flexibility and ease of use, making it an excellent choice for capturing high-speed action that you want to slow down later. Its ability to record at 720p at 120 frames per second (fps) is particularly noteworthy for smooth slow-motion playback.
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Key Features:
- Versatile shooting modes for professional-grade video.
- Captures more detail in brightly-lit areas.
- Wi-Fi built-in for remote control and content sharing.
- Lighter and smaller than previous models.
- Reduced fogging in the housing for clearer shots.
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Pros:
- Excellent slow-motion capabilities (e.g., 720p @ 120fps).
- Compact and lightweight design.
- Good low-light performance for its generation.
- Robust and durable for action sports.
- Still a budget-friendly option for quality video.
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Cons:
- Older model, so lacks 4K capabilities found in newer GoPros.
- Battery life could be better without external accessories.
- Requires a separate screen for previewing footage.
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User Impressions: Owners consistently rave about the Black Edition’s video quality and impressive frame rate options for slow-motion. Many appreciate its durability and straightforward operation, making it a reliable workhorse for capturing adventure footage.
3. GoPro Dual Battery Charger for HERO3+/HERO3) (GoPro…
An official accessory from GoPro, this Dual Battery Charger is a must-have for anyone serious about continuous shooting, especially when recording power-hungry slow-motion video. It offers a convenient and efficient way to charge two GoPro Li-ion batteries simultaneously, ensuring your camera is always ready to go. No more waiting around for one battery to charge before swapping it out!
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Key Features:
- Conveniently charges two GoPro Li-ion batteries simultaneously.
- Can be powered with most standard USB chargers, GoPro Auto or Wall Charger, or a computer.
- Dual LED lights display the charging status of both batteries.
- Only Dual Battery Charger and USB Cable are included (no batteries).
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Pros:
- Official GoPro product, ensuring compatibility and reliability.
- Efficient charging of two batteries at once.
- Clear LED indicators for charging status.
- Flexible power options (USB, wall, car).
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Cons:
- Does not include batteries, so you’ll need to purchase them separately.
- Can be pricier than third-party alternatives.
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User Impressions: Users love the simplicity and reliability of this official charger. It’s often highlighted as a crucial accessory for pros and hobbyists alike who need to quickly juice up multiple batteries between takes, especially useful for capturing those fleeting slow-motion moments.
4. Newmowa 1300mAh Replacement AHDBT-302 Battery (3-Pack) and…
For the ultimate power backup, the Newmowa 3-pack of replacement batteries combined with a rapid 3-channel charger is an absolute lifesaver. This kit is designed to extend your camera’s runtime significantly, giving you the freedom to shoot more video, including plenty of demanding slow-motion sequences, without worrying about running out of juice. With three extra batteries and a charger that can handle them all, you’re set for any adventure.
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Key Features:
- Includes 3 x 1300mAh Replacement AHDBT-302 Batteries.
- 1 x Rapid 3-Channel Charger.
- 1 x USB-MINI Cord.
- Multiple charging options: micro-USB and Mini-USB input; can charge with USB wall charger, car charger, or external battery.
- Special design: charger can charge both Hero3/3+ and Hero 4 camera batteries (AHDBT-302/301 and AHDBT-401).
- Built with multiple circuit protection (over-charging, short-circuit, high-temperature, surge protection).
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Pros:
- Provides significant extended shooting time.
- Charges up to three batteries simultaneously.
- Versatile charging options for convenience.
- Built-in safety features for peace of mind.
- Excellent value with three batteries included.
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Cons:
- Third-party batteries may have slight variations in actual performance compared to OEM.
- The charger design, while functional, might feel less premium than official GoPro.
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User Impressions: This bundle receives high praise for its incredible value and the sheer amount of shooting time it provides. Users frequently recommend it for trips and long outdoor shoots, emphasizing how it alleviates battery anxiety when capturing extensive video, including smooth slow-motion.
5. YALLSAME Skeleton Case for GoPro Hero 4/3+/3 with Tripod…
While not directly impacting frame rates, a skeleton case like this from YALLSAME is incredibly useful for enhancing your GoPro Hero 3’s usability, especially for prolonged shooting sessions like time-lapses or long slow-motion takes where continuous power is key. Its side-opening design allows for charging or connecting external devices without removing the camera, and it also enables better audio capture for your videos compared to the fully enclosed waterproof housing.
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Key Features:
- Compatible with GoPro Hero4 Black / Hero4 Silver / Hero3+ / Hero3 action cameras.
- Protects from dust, scratches, and impact.
- Side opening design with a Type-C hole for easier charging or device connection.
- Reserved hole ensures internal Microphone and Alert alarm are unshaded.
- Made of transparent specialized polymer material – compact and light.
- Easy to install; no need to remove the cover lens.
- Includes standard IN adapter, long thumb screw, and quick release buckle.
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Pros:
- Allows continuous charging during operation, crucial for long slow-motion recordings.
- Provides better audio quality than the standard sealed case.
- Lightweight and compact design.
- Easy access to ports and buttons.
- Good protection against minor bumps and scratches.
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Cons:
- Not waterproof, so unsuitable for underwater or wet environments.
- Offers less impact protection than a full armored case.
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User Impressions: Users love this skeleton case for vlogging and studio setups because of the improved audio and the ability to keep the camera powered. It’s a favorite for those who need constant power for live streaming or extended recording, making it indirectly beneficial for those demanding slow-motion shots where battery life is a concern.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can the GoPro Hero 3 really shoot good slow motion?
A1: Absolutely! The GoPro Hero 3 Black Edition, in particular, can shoot at 720p at 120 frames per second (fps). When played back at standard 24fps or 30fps, this allows for very smooth and detailed slow-motion footage, especially in good lighting conditions.
Q2: What frame rate is best for slow motion on a GoPro Hero 3?
A2: For the smoothest slow motion on a Hero 3 Black Edition, you’ll want to use the 720p resolution at 120fps. While other resolutions might offer lower frame rates, 120fps gives you the most significant slow-down effect while maintaining good image quality.
Q3: Why is battery life so important for slow motion filming?
A3: Shooting at high frame rates (like 120fps) requires more processing power and writes more data to the memory card, which consumes battery much faster than standard video modes. Having extended battery life or spare batteries ensures you don’t miss those critical slow-motion moments.
Q4: Do I need a specific memory card for slow-motion recording?
A4: Yes, a high-speed microSD card (UHS-I or higher, Class 10 recommended) is crucial. Slow-motion footage generates a lot of data quickly, so a fast card ensures the camera can write the video data without dropped frames or errors, leading to smoother playback.
Q5: What’s the benefit of a skeleton case for slow motion?
A5: While a skeleton case doesn’t affect the frame rate, it allows you to connect external power (like a power bank) to the GoPro, enabling significantly longer recording times. This is perfect for extended slow-motion clips or time-lapses where battery life would otherwise be a limitation. It also allows for better onboard audio compared to the sealed waterproof housing.
Q6: Can I edit slow-motion footage from my GoPro Hero 3 on my phone?
A6: You can, but for the best results, using desktop editing software (like GoPro Quik for desktop, Adobe Premiere Pro, DaVinci Resolve, etc.) gives you more control over the speed ramping, color grading, and overall quality of your slow-motion clips. Mobile apps might be simpler but less robust.
Q7: Is it worth buying a GoPro Hero 3 for slow motion today?
A7: If you’re on a tight budget and primarily want good 720p slow motion, a used GoPro Hero 3 Black Edition can be an excellent value. While newer GoPros offer 4K slow motion, the Hero 3 still delivers crisp 720p 120fps footage that looks great, especially when paired with the right accessories to keep it powered up.
