Ever wondered how those breathtaking action shots turn into mesmerizing, drawn-out sequences? That’s the magic of slow motion, and when it comes to capturing it, GoPro has been at the forefront for years. If you’re specifically looking for the best GoPro Hero 5 for slow motion capabilities, you’re in for a treat. While the Hero 5 was a groundbreaking camera in its time, pushing boundaries for what a compact action cam could do, the world of GoPro has evolved dramatically. Newer models have refined and amplified slow-motion capture, offering incredible frame rates and stabilization that truly elevate your footage.
This article dives deep into the best GoPro options for capturing stunning slow-motion video, encompassing the legacy of the Hero 5 and showcasing how its successors have perfected the art. We’ll look at what makes each camera or accessory stand out, focusing on features crucial for buttery-smooth, high-quality slow-motion playback. Get ready to turn fleeting moments into timeless masterpieces!
Understanding Slow Motion on GoPro
Slow motion relies on capturing video at a much higher frame rate (frames per second, or FPS) than it will be played back. For example, shooting at 120fps and playing it back at the standard 30fps will give you 4x slow motion. The higher the frame rate a camera can record, the slower and smoother your playback can be. Modern GoPros excel at this, offering incredibly high frame rates even at high resolutions, combined with cutting-edge stabilization technology like HyperSmooth to ensure your super-slow footage remains stable and crystal clear.
Let’s explore the top contenders that will help you capture unparalleled slow-motion shots.
1. GoPro HERO12 Black – Waterproof Action Camera with 5.3K60…
The GoPro HERO12 Black isn’t just an upgrade; it’s a statement for slow-motion enthusiasts. Boasting an incredible 5.3K60 video capability and even higher frame rates at lower resolutions (like 4K120 or 2.7K240), this camera is a slow-motion powerhouse. Its High Dynamic Range (HDR) video ensures every detail, from the brightest highlights to the deepest shadows, is perfectly preserved, making your slow-motion clips pop with professional-grade clarity. Coupled with the Emmy Award-winning HyperSmooth 6.0, your footage will look impossibly smooth, even when stretched to super slow speeds.
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Key Features:
- High Dynamic Range Video + Photo (5.3K and 4K)
- Unbelievable 5.3K60 Video Resolution and 27MP Photos
- Emmy Award-Winning HyperSmooth 6.0 Stabilization
- Rugged + Waterproof to 33ft (10m)
- Includes Enduro Rechargeable Battery
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Pros:
- Exceptional video quality with HDR for rich detail
- Industry-leading stabilization for silky-smooth slow motion
- High frame rates (up to 240fps) for extreme slow-motion
- Robust and waterproof design
- Improved battery life with Enduro battery
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Cons:
- Premium price point
- High-resolution slow-motion files can be large
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User Impressions: Users rave about the HERO12 Black’s video quality and stabilization, frequently mentioning how it transforms shaky action into cinematic slow-motion sequences. The improved battery life is also a significant plus for longer shoots.
- Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
2. GoPro HERO13 Black Ultra Wide Edition – Waterproof Action…
For those who want to capture truly expansive slow-motion scenes, the GoPro HERO13 Black Ultra Wide Edition is a dream come true. Coming with the Ultra Wide Lens Mod pre-attached, it expands your field of view up to an astonishing 177°, perfect for immersive POV shots or sweeping landscapes. Imagine a snowboarder soaring through the air in ultra-slow motion, with the vast mountain range filling the frame – that’s what this camera delivers. Its Unbreakable HyperSmooth Stabilization ensures that even with such a wide perspective, your high-speed (and then slow-motion) footage remains incredibly stable.
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Key Features:
- Ultra Wide Lens Mod (177° FOV)
- Pro-Quality 4K60 Video
- Unbreakable HyperSmooth Stabilization
- Easy Vertical Capture for social media
- Includes Ultra Wide Lens Mod and Camera Case
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Pros:
- Massively wide field of view for immersive shots
- Excellent 4K60 video for crisp slow motion
- Advanced stabilization handles even extreme action
- Convenient for vertical video content creation
- Comes with useful accessories out of the box
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Cons:
- Ultra-wide perspective might not be suitable for all shots
- Higher cost due to included lens mod
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User Impressions: Reviewers are particularly impressed with the immersive quality of the ultra-wide footage and how well the stabilization copes with such a broad view. Many find it ideal for capturing sports and extreme activities.
- Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
3. GoPro HERO13 Black – Waterproof Action Camera with 5.3K60…
The standard GoPro HERO13 Black sets a new benchmark for all-around action camera performance, making it an exceptional choice for slow motion. With best-in-class 5.3K60 video and legendary durability, it combines raw power with robust construction. The new HB-Series Lenses and a more powerful battery further enhance its capability, ensuring you can capture stunning, high-resolution slow-motion clips for longer. This camera is built for creators who demand top-tier video quality and reliability in any environment.
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Key Features:
- Best-in-class 5.3K60 video
- Legendary durability
- New HB-Series Lenses
- More powerful battery
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Pros:
- Top-tier video resolution for crisp slow motion
- Extremely durable for any adventure
- Improved lens quality
- Extended battery life for longer recording sessions
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Cons:
- Specific high frame rate details not listed in this snippet, but generally performs similarly to HERO12 for slow motion.
- May require additional accessories for specific needs
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User Impressions: Users consistently praise the HERO13 Black for its incredible video quality, especially noting the vibrant colors and sharp details. The improved battery life is a common highlight, allowing for extended recording sessions.
- Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
4. GoPro HERO13 (Hero 13) Black – Waterproof Action Camera…
This bundle version of the GoPro HERO13 Black reinforces its position as a slow-motion beast, offering up to 5.3K60, 4K120, and an astounding 2.7K240 for 8x slow-motion playback. The 1/1.9″ sensor combined with HDR/HLG options and GP-Log color depth delivers cinematic image quality that’s perfect for detailed slow-motion analysis or artistic effects. HyperSmooth 6.0 with AutoBoost and 360° Horizon Lock ensures your footage stays perfectly level and incredibly stable, no matter how chaotic the action. Plus, the included 50-in-1 accessory kit and 64GB microSDXC card mean you’re ready to shoot epic slow motion right out of the box.
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Key Features:
- 27MP Photos and 5.3K60, 4K120, 2.7K240 Video
- 1/1.9″ Sensor with HDR/HLG and GP-Log
- HyperSmooth 6.0 Stabilization with 360° Horizon Lock
- Versatile Recording Options (widescreen, vertical, full-frame)
- Extended 1900mAh Enduro battery life
- Bluetooth Audio & Wi-Fi 6 connectivity
- Bundle includes 50-in-1 Accessory Kit and 64GB SD Card
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Pros:
- Unrivaled slow-motion capabilities (up to 8x)
- Professional-grade image quality and color depth
- Advanced stabilization with horizon lock
- Excellent battery life
- Comprehensive bundle provides great value
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Cons:
- The vast array of features might be overwhelming for beginners
- Premium investment, but justified by performance and bundle
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User Impressions: Buyers love the complete package, emphasizing how the accessory kit makes it easy to get started. The 8x slow-motion at 2.7K is frequently praised for its stunning results, even in challenging conditions.
- Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
5. Action Camera Mount The Frame Hero Housing…
While not a camera itself, this “The Frame” housing is an essential accessory for optimizing the functionality of older GoPro models, including the Hero7, Hero6, Hero5 Black, and Hero (2018). For those still utilizing a best GoPro Hero 5 for slow motion, this frame allows you to attach your camera to virtually any mounting accessory, protecting it while maintaining full access to ports for charging or external mics. This means you can keep your Hero 5 powered up during long slow-motion shoots or easily offload footage without removing the frame, enhancing its usability significantly.
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Key Features:
- Wide Compatibility: GoPro Hero7 Black, Hero7 Silver, Hero7 White, Hero6, Hero5, Hero (2018)
- Allows charging without removing the frame
- Full access to USB-C and HDMI ports
- Reserved openings for 3 microphones and 1 speaker
- Included lens cap
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Pros:
- Protects the camera without bulk
- Maintains full port access for continuous operation
- Enhances audio capture
- Increases mounting flexibility
- Cost-effective accessory
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Cons:
- Offers less protection than a full waterproof housing
- Doesn’t improve camera performance directly
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User Impressions: Users appreciate the lightweight design and ease of use, noting that it’s perfect for everyday mounting and ensures their Hero 5 remains functional and protected for various shooting scenarios.
- Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
6. GoPro HERO12 (Hero 12) Black – Waterproof Action Camera…
This specific bundle for the GoPro HERO12 Black reiterates its prowess for slow motion, packaged with a 50-in-1 accessory kit and a 64GB microSDXC card. It highlights the camera’s ability to dive into action, being fully waterproof and tougher than ever. Its revolutionary HDR capabilities capture every nuance of your scene, making your slow-motion footage burst with true-to-life colors. With HyperSmooth 6.0, your slow-motion clips will be incredibly smooth, whether you’re biking, skiing, or chasing your pets. The extended battery life (up to 90 minutes at 5.3K30fps) means you can capture more of those fleeting moments for slow-motion playback.
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Key Features:
- Fully waterproof and highly durable
- Revolutionary HDR for Videos (5.3K and 4K) and Photos
- Award-Winning HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilization
- Extended battery life (Enduro battery included)
- Bluetooth Audio Connectivity for wireless mics
- Bundle includes 50-in-1 Accessory Kit and 64GB SD Card
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Pros:
- Exceptional video quality for detailed slow motion
- Industry-leading stabilization with minimal cropping
- Long-lasting battery supports extended shoots
- Versatile accessory kit for diverse mounting
- Bluetooth audio expands possibilities for sound capture
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Cons:
- High initial cost for the bundle
- Some accessory kit items may be lower quality generics
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User Impressions: Customers love the comprehensive bundle, which offers great value for starting out with a powerful action camera. The 5.3K HDR video and HyperSmooth are consistently praised for producing stunning, professional-looking slow-motion content.
- Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
7. Sametop Case Frame Mount Housing Compatible with GoPro Hero…
Another essential accessory, the Sametop Case Frame Mount Housing is specifically designed for GoPro Hero Session cameras (Hero5 Session, Hero4 Session, Hero Session). For those who might have one of these compact, cube-shaped GoPros and want to get the best GoPro Hero 5 for slow motion (if it’s a Hero 5 Session), this frame offers lightweight protection and crucial functionality. It’s made of strengthen PC material, ensuring durability while maintaining access to all buttons and ports, allowing you to charge your Session camera without ever removing it from the frame. Its flexibility also allows for creative angle adjustments, perfect for unique slow-motion perspectives.
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Key Features:
- High Quality strengthen PC material
- Wide Compatibility: GoPro Hero5 Session, Hero4 Session, Hero Session
- Pocket size, compact and easy to take
- Humanized open design for full port access and button operation
- Flexible Angle adjustment for mounting
- Integrated design with quick release buckle mount
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Pros:
- Lightweight and durable protection
- Full access to ports and buttons
- Easy installation and removal
- Enhances mounting flexibility for Session models
- Cost-effective accessory
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Cons:
- Only compatible with Session models, not the traditional Hero Black series
- Offers basic protection, not waterproof like a full housing
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User Impressions: Users appreciate its snug fit and robust construction, finding it an excellent minimalist case for everyday use and mounting their Session cameras. The easy access to ports is a frequently highlighted convenience.
- Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
8. GoPro HERO11 (Go Pro Hero11) Black Mini – Waterproof…
The GoPro HERO11 Black Mini brings top-tier slow-motion capabilities in a remarkably compact form factor. Despite its smaller size, it packs the same powerful image sensor as its full-sized sibling, allowing it to capture 24.7MP photos from 5.3K60 and 2.7K240 video. This means you can achieve incredible 8x slow-motion playback even from a camera designed for maximum portability. HyperSmooth 5.0 with Horizon Lock ensures your footage remains incredibly stable and perfectly level, making it a fantastic choice for tight spaces or setups where a full-sized GoPro might be too bulky.
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Key Features:
- Compact, smaller form factor
- 24.7MP photos from video, 5.3K60/2.7K240 video
- HyperSmooth 5.0 Image Stabilization with Horizon Lock
- Two sets of folding mounting fingers
- Wi-Fi & Bluetooth Connectivity
- 33′ Waterproof without housing
- 8x Slow-Motion Video
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Pros:
- Excellent slow-motion capabilities in a tiny package
- Powerful stabilization and horizon lock
- Highly versatile mounting options
- Ideal for POV shots or discreet placements
- Robust and waterproof design
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Cons:
- Lacks a front or rear display (uses phone app for framing)
- Integrated battery is not swappable on the go
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User Impressions: Reviewers love the Hero 11 Mini for its incredible power-to-size ratio. They frequently praise its stability and video quality, especially the smooth slow motion, making it a favorite for action sports where discretion and stability are key.
- Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
9. PowerTrust 2-Pack Replacement AHDBT-501 Batteries and Rapid…
For any action camera, especially if you’re chasing the best GoPro Hero 5 for slow motion (or any Hero5, 6, 7, 8, 2018 model), battery life is crucial for capturing extended high-frame-rate footage. This PowerTrust 2-Pack of AHDBT-501 replacement batteries, along with a rapid USB dual charger, is an indispensable accessory. High frame rates consume more power, so having extra batteries ensures you don’t miss that perfect slow-motion shot because your camera died. These batteries offer 1600mAh capacity, ensuring shooting duration comparable to the original, and the dual charger allows for convenient, simultaneous charging.
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Key Features:
- 2x AHDBT-501 Battery (1600mAh)
- Fully Compatible with GoPro Hero 5/6/7/8 2018 Battery
- USB Dual Charger and USB Cable
- High Energy Density, Extra Long Life, Memory Free
- Overheat and overcharge protection
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Pros:
- Essential for extended shooting sessions, especially for slow motion
- Provides reliable, long-lasting power
- Convenient dual-charging capability
- Cost-effective alternative to OEM batteries
- Safety features provide peace of mind
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Cons:
- Not compatible with newer GoPro models (HERO9 onwards)
- Third-party batteries may not always perform identically to OEM in extreme conditions
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User Impressions: Customers consistently rate these batteries highly for their reliability and performance, often stating they hold a charge as well as or better than the original GoPro batteries. The dual charger is a particular favorite for its convenience.
- Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
10. MiPremium Frame Mount Housing Case for GoPro Hero Session…
If you’re still using a GoPro Hero Session (Hero Session, Hero 4 Session, Hero 5 Session) and want to protect it while having flexible mounting options for slow-motion capture, the MiPremium Frame Mount Housing Case is a solid choice. This skeleton housing keeps your camera securely in place during high-impact activities, preventing dust, dirt, and scratches. Crucially, its precise cut-out openings allow full access to ports, meaning you can easily charge your Session or transfer footage without removing the camera from the case. This uninterrupted access is vital for extended slow-motion shoots or when you need to quickly check your footage.
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Key Features:
- Strong PC material for robust protection
- Compatible with GoPro Hero Session, Hero 4 Session, Hero 5 Session
- Precise cut-out openings for ports (Micro SD & HDMI) and controls
- Integrated design with fastened lock buckle backdoor
- Comes with 100% anti-rust aluminum thumbscrew & quick release buckle mount
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Pros:
- Excellent protection for Hero Session cameras
- Full access to ports for charging and data transfer
- Easy to install and remove camera
- Enhances mounting versatility for various activities
- Durable, anti-rust components
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Cons:
- Only for Hero Session models, not the Hero Black line
- Not a waterproof housing
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User Impressions: Users appreciate the protective yet minimalist design, stating it’s perfect for attaching their Session cameras to various mounts without adding bulk. The easy access to charging ports is a common highlight, making it practical for daily use.
- Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
Conclusion
While the GoPro Hero 5 was a fantastic camera that brought excellent video quality and some impressive slow-motion capabilities to the masses, the newer GoPro models listed above have truly revolutionized what’s possible for high-speed video capture. From the incredible 8x slow motion at 2.7K on the HERO13 Black to the unparalleled stabilization of HyperSmooth 6.0 in the HERO12, these cameras offer an unmatched ability to slow down the world and reveal details you’d otherwise miss.
For those still rocking a best GoPro Hero 5 for slow motion, accessories like the frame mounts and extra batteries are crucial to extending its usability and protecting your investment. But if you’re serious about creating the most cinematic, buttery-smooth slow-motion footage possible, upgrading to a modern GoPro like the HERO12 or HERO13 will deliver performance that far exceeds older generations, opening up a whole new realm of creative possibilities.
FAQ Section
Q1: What frame rates are best for slow motion on a GoPro?
A1: For good slow motion, aim for at least 120 frames per second (fps). For super slow motion, 240fps is ideal. Modern GoPros like the HERO12 and HERO13 can record at 4K120fps or 2.7K240fps, which allows for 4x to 8x slow motion when played back at 30fps.
Q2: How does HyperSmooth stabilization help with slow motion?
A2: HyperSmooth stabilization is crucial for slow motion because any jiggle or shake becomes incredibly pronounced when played back slowly. By digitally stabilizing the footage in-camera, HyperSmooth ensures your slow-motion clips are smooth and fluid, not shaky and jarring.
Q3: Can older GoPros like the Hero 5 still do good slow motion?
A3: Yes, the GoPro Hero 5 Black can record 1080p at 120fps and 720p at 240fps. While these frame rates allow for decent slow motion, newer GoPros offer higher resolutions at these frame rates (e.g., 4K120fps), significantly improving the detail and quality of your slow-motion footage compared to the Hero 5.
Q4: What resolution is best for slow motion?
A4: Higher resolution is always better if your camera supports high frame rates at that resolution. For instance, 4K120fps offers a much clearer and more detailed slow-motion image than 1080p120fps. If you plan to crop or zoom into your slow-motion footage in post-production, higher resolutions like 4K or 5.3K provide more flexibility.
Q5: Do I need special editing software for GoPro slow motion?
A5: Most modern video editing software (like Adobe Premiere Pro, DaVinci Resolve, or even GoPro’s Quik app) allows you to easily slow down footage by interpreting high frame rate video (e.g., 120fps) at a standard playback rate (e.g., 30fps). You don’t necessarily need “special” software, but professional tools offer more control.
Q6: What’s the difference between slow motion and time lapse?
A6: Slow motion captures many frames per second (high frame rate) and plays them back slowly to stretch out a moment. Time lapse, conversely, captures frames at intervals (e.g., one frame every few seconds) and plays them back quickly, compressing a long period of time into a short video, showing change over time.
Q7: How can I maximize battery life when shooting slow motion?
A7: Shooting at high frame rates and high resolutions consumes more battery. To maximize battery life, carry spare batteries (like the ones reviewed), use the Enduro battery if your GoPro supports it, turn off Wi-Fi/Bluetooth when not needed, and avoid prolonged use of the LCD screen.
