Ready to capture breathtaking footage beneath the waves? Your GoPro Hero 4 Silver is an incredible action camera, but to truly unlock its potential for stunning underwater videography and photography, you’ll need the right gear. Whether you’re snorkeling in crystal-clear shallows or exploring vibrant coral reefs on a deep dive, having the best for GoPro Hero 4 Silver underwater is crucial. We’ve compiled a list of top picks, from robust waterproof housings to the camera itself, ensuring your adventures are well-documented and your gear stays safe. Let’s dive in!
SOONSUN Standard Protective Waterproof Dive Housing Case
When you’re serious about taking your GoPro Hero 4 Silver underwater, you need a housing you can trust. The SOONSUN Dive Housing is a fantastic choice, designed to keep your camera bone dry even at significant depths. What really makes this one stand out is its robust build with rust-resistant 316 stainless steel parts – a big plus for frequent saltwater use. Its flat glass lens is also a game-changer, ensuring your underwater shots remain crisp and distortion-free, just as nature intended. It’s built for those who push their limits, offering reliable protection during sea diving, surfing, and other extreme water sports.
Key Features:
– Compatible with GoPro Hero 4 Black, Hero 4 Silver, Hero 3+, Hero 3 (not Hero 5 or newer)
– Waterproof up to 131ft (40m)
– Large flat glass lens for maximum image sharpness
– 316 stainless steel parts on screw and buckle resist rust
– Professionally sealed tempered glass lens
– Package includes waterproof case, thumb screw, quick release buckle
Pros:
– Excellent depth rating for serious diving
– Flat lens design eliminates distortion for clearer images
– Rust-resistant materials ensure durability in saltwater
– Provides robust protection against impacts and scratches
– Easy to install and use
Cons:
– Not compatible with newer GoPro models
– Requires careful maintenance to ensure seals remain effective
User Impressions:
Users frequently praise this SOONSUN case for its reliability and excellent value. Many divers report clear, sharp images without any leaks, even after multiple deep dives. It’s often highlighted as a sturdy and dependable alternative to the official GoPro housing. Customers appreciate the peace of mind it offers, knowing their valuable camera is well-protected.
GoPro Hero4 Silver
While this article is about gear for the GoPro Hero 4 Silver underwater, it’s impossible to talk about underwater adventures without featuring the camera itself! The Hero 4 Silver was a groundbreaking camera for its time, especially with its built-in touch display – a huge convenience for framing shots, adjusting settings, and reviewing footage right on the spot, even before you’re out of the water. Its ability to capture professional 1080p60 and 720p120 video means your underwater scenes will be smooth and detailed. Remember, though, for anything beyond splashes, this camera needs a proper waterproof housing (like the others on our list!) to survive the deep. It’s the heart of your underwater setup, offering the quality and control you need.
Key Features:
– Built-in touch display for easy camera control and playback
– Professional 1080p60 and 720p120 video capture
– 12MP photos at up to 30 frames per second
– Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for app and remote control
– Improved camera control and built-in video trimming
– Protune with SuperView for cinema-quality capture and immersive wide-angle
Pros:
– Intuitive touch screen simplifies operation
– High-quality video and photo capabilities
– SuperView offers an incredibly wide field of view, great for expansive underwater landscapes
– Excellent connectivity for quick sharing
– Compact and easy to handle
Cons:
– Not natively waterproof beyond shallow splashes; requires an external housing for diving
– Older model, so battery life might not match newer cameras
– No built-in stabilization (common for its era)
User Impressions:
GoPro Hero 4 Silver owners rave about its versatility and image quality. The touch screen is a consistent favorite, making it much easier to use compared to previous models. While everyone knows it needs a housing for underwater use, they appreciate its robust performance and the stunning footage it captures, making it an ideal candidate for any underwater enthusiast.
Compatible for Go Pro Hero 4/3+/3 Black Silver Waterproof Housing + Floating Hand Grip
This accessory kit really gives you a bang for your buck, offering not just a high-quality waterproof housing but also a handy floating hand grip. This combination is brilliant for anyone planning to be around water, whether it’s snorkeling, surfing, or just playing by the pool. The upgraded seals and fasteners on the housing mean you can trust it for deeper dives, up to 147ft (45m), while the floating grip provides incredible peace of mind, ensuring your camera won’t sink to the bottom if it slips from your grasp. It’s a complete package designed to protect your camera and enhance your underwater experience, making it a strong contender for the best for GoPro Hero 4 Silver underwater accessories.
Key Features:
– Includes Waterproof Housing Case + Floating Hand Grip Accessories Kit
– 147FT/45M waterproof rating with upgraded seals
– High-quality PMMA hard plastic protects from dust, scratches, mud, and debris
– High-definition 12H tempered glass protector on the front lens
– Extra Textured EVA Non-Slip Floating Grip keeps camera afloat
– Anti-lost rope for wrist attachment
– Life-time warranty and 30-day money-back guarantee
Pros:
– Comprehensive kit with both housing and float
– Higher waterproof rating than many standard cases
– Excellent protection against impacts and elements
– Floating grip prevents loss in water
– Strong warranty for buyer confidence
Cons:
– Might be slightly bulkier with the floating grip attached
– Compatibility only for specific older GoPro models
User Impressions:
Customers love the value and functionality this kit provides. The floating grip is consistently highlighted as a lifesaver, and the housing itself is praised for its leak-proof design and clear lens. Many users find it perfect for vacations and water sports, appreciating the added security and protection for their GoPro Hero 4 Silver underwater.
GEPULY Waterproof Housing Case for GoPro Hero 4 Black, Silver
The GEPULY Waterproof Housing Case is a solid, no-nonsense option for keeping your GoPro Hero 4 Silver safe and sound during all your aquatic adventures. What sets this case apart is its attention to detail, like the 316 stainless steel metal parts for rust resistance – a crucial feature for saltwater environments. Beyond just keeping water out, its high-transmission flat glass lens ensures that your photos and videos retain maximum clarity, making every underwater scene pop. It’s also incredibly versatile, offering protection not just for diving but also for skiing, surfing, and everyday bumps and scratches, proving it’s a truly reliable piece of gear when considering the best for GoPro Hero 4 Silver underwater.
Key Features:
– Compatible with GoPro Hero 3, Hero 3+, Hero 4 Black and Silver
– Waterproof up to 131 ft (40M)
– Rustproof 316 stainless steel buttons, thumbscrew, and metal parts
– Made of solid transparent plastic with a high-transmission flat glass lens (98% light transmission)
– Lens border made of aluminum for enhanced waterproofing
– Ideal for diving, snorkeling, surfing, skiing, drifting, and other extreme activities
Pros:
– Durable, rust-resistant construction for longevity
– High-quality lens ensures clear, sharp images underwater
– Offers robust protection against water, dust, and impacts
– Compact and lightweight design
– Versatile for various extreme activities
Cons:
– Standard 40m depth might not be enough for extreme deep divers
– No included floating accessory
User Impressions:
Reviewers consistently praise the GEPULY housing for its snug fit, clear optics, and leak-proof performance. Users appreciate the robust feel and the confidence it instills when taking their GoPro Hero 4 Silver underwater. Many mention the quality of the buttons and metal parts, noting their resistance to corrosion even after extensive use in the ocean.
GoPro Hero 4 Silver Edition 12MP Waterproof Sports & Action Camera
Here we are again with the Hero 4 Silver itself, but this listing often comes with valuable extras that enhance your underwater experience right out of the box. Think of it as a starter pack for your aquatic adventures! Beyond the camera’s superb 1080p60 and 720p120 video capabilities and the intuitive touch display, this edition often includes an extra battery, a dual battery charger, and a 16GB Micro SD card. This means more recording time and immediate storage for your incredible underwater footage. While the camera still needs a separate, dedicated housing for deep diving, having these essentials bundled makes it even easier to jump into capturing the magic beneath the surface. It truly sets you up to get the most out of your best for GoPro Hero 4 Silver underwater setup.
Key Features:
– Built-in touch display for easy camera control and shot-framing
– Protune with SuperView for cinema-quality capture and immersive wide-angle
– Professional 1080p60 and 720p120 video; 12MP photos at 30 fps
– Video Supported: 4K15 / 2.7K30 / 1440p48 / 1080p60 / 960p100 / 720p120 fps
– Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth support
– Improved camera control and built-in video trimming
– Includes an extra battery, dual battery charger, and a 16GB Micro SD card
Pros:
– Touch screen simplifies operation and playback
– Excellent video and photo quality, including 4K capabilities
– Bundled accessories extend shooting time and provide immediate storage
– SuperView mode is fantastic for wide underwater vistas
– Compact and portable
Cons:
– Requires an additional waterproof housing for deep diving (not included)
– 4K video is limited to 15fps, which isn’t ideal for action
– Older model, so some features might be outdated compared to newer GoPros
User Impressions:
Users frequently highlight the convenience of the touch screen and the overall quality of the footage. The bundled accessories are a significant plus, providing immediate utility and reducing the need for separate purchases. Owners appreciate its reliability and ease of use, making it a beloved choice for capturing everything from family moments to more adventurous exploits, especially when paired with a good underwater housing.
Frequently Asked Questions about GoPro Hero 4 Silver Underwater
Q1: Is the GoPro Hero 4 Silver waterproof on its own?
A1: No, the GoPro Hero 4 Silver is not natively waterproof for diving or prolonged submersion. It’s splash-proof and can handle light rain or splashes, but for true underwater use like swimming, snorkeling, or diving, you absolutely need a dedicated waterproof housing.
Q2: What depth can these aftermarket waterproof cases handle?
A2: Most high-quality aftermarket waterproof housings for the GoPro Hero 4 Silver can handle depths ranging from 131 feet (40 meters) to 147 feet (45 meters). Always check the specific product’s rating to ensure it meets your diving needs.
Q3: How can I prevent fogging inside my GoPro waterproof housing?
A3: Fogging is a common issue due to temperature differences. To prevent it, use anti-fog inserts (desiccant packets) inside the housing. You can also try cooling your camera and housing to the ambient water temperature before sealing, especially if going from warm air to cold water.
Q4: Do I need special lighting for underwater photography with my GoPro Hero 4 Silver?
A4: For shallow water (e.g., snorkeling) in good sunlight, you might not need extra lighting. However, as you go deeper, colors (especially reds and oranges) are absorbed by the water. For vibrant, true-to-life colors in deeper water, you’ll benefit greatly from a red filter, a dedicated underwater video light, or a strobe.
Q5: What’s Protune and how does it help with underwater video?
A5: Protune is a setting on your GoPro that unlocks the camera’s full potential by providing a less compressed, more neutral footage. This gives you greater flexibility in post-production to color correct and grade your underwater videos, bringing out vibrant hues and details that might otherwise be lost.
Q6: How should I clean my GoPro waterproof housing after saltwater use?
A6: After every use in saltwater, rinse your housing thoroughly with fresh water. Pay extra attention to the seals and buttons, making sure no salt crystals remain. Let it air dry completely before storing. Occasionally, you can use a very mild soap for cleaning, but always ensure the seals are clear of debris before closing.
Q7: Can I use older GoPro Hero series housings with my Hero 4 Silver?
A7: Yes, many housings designed for the Hero 3+ are compatible with the Hero 4 Silver (and Hero 4 Black, Hero 3). However, always double-check the product’s compatibility list to be certain before purchasing, as slight design variations can occur.
Ready to Explore?
Equipping your GoPro Hero 4 Silver with the right gear is key to capturing those breathtaking underwater moments. Whether you’re a casual snorkeler or a dedicated diver, investing in a reliable waterproof housing and complementary accessories will ensure your camera is safe and your footage is spectacular. The products above represent some of the best for GoPro Hero 4 Silver underwater adventures, offering durability, clarity, and peace of mind. So go on, pick your gear, and dive into a world of incredible visual storytelling!
